rriR CONSTITUTION OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA : CONTAINING THE CONFESSION OF FAITH, THE CATECHIMS AND THE DIRECTORY FOR THE WORSHIP OF GOD ■ TOGETHER WITH THE PLAN OF GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE, AS RATIFED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, AT THEIR SESSIONS IN MAY, 1821 ; AND AMENDED IN 1833. PHILADELPHIA: HARRINGTON & HASWELL, We, the subscribers,! appointed a committee to supermtend the publication of the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church in the United States, &c. within the bounds of the synod of Delaware, do authorize and approve of the present edition, as a correct and au- thentic copy of said Constitution, as amended, ratified, and in force at the present date. EZRA STILES ELY Philadelphia, June 16th, 1834 A. BARNES, H. A. BOARDMAN. We, the subscribers, appointed a committee to superintend the Publication of the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church in the Jnited States, &c. within the bounds of the synod of Philadelphia, do authorize and approve of the present edition, as a correct and au thentic copy of said Constitution, as amended, ratified, and in force at the present date. CORS. C. CUYLER, Philadelphia, August 22d, 1834. JOHN M'DOWELL, S. G. WINCHESTER. Eastern District of Pennsylvania, to wit : Be it remembered, that on the second day of June, in the forty- fifth year of the independence of the United States of America, A. D/1821, the Reverend Ezra Stiles Ely, D. D. of the said District, by order of the General Assembly, on behalf of the Trustees of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America, has deposited in this office the title of a Book, the right whereof they claim as Proprietors, in the words following, to wit : " The Constitution of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America : containing the Confession of Faith, the Catechisms, and the Directory for the worship of God: together with the Plan of Government and Discipline, as amended and ratified by the General Assembly, at their Session in May, 1821." In conformity to the Act of the Congress of the United States, en- titled, " An Act for the Encouragement of Learning, by securing the Copies of Maps, Charts, and Books, to the Authors and Proprietors of such Copies during the Times therein mentioned." And also to the Act entitled. " An Act Supplementary to an Act, entitled, ■ An Act for the Encouragement of Learning, by securing the Copies of Maps. Charts, and Books, to the Authors and Proprietors of such Copies, during the times therein mentioned,' and extending the Benefits thereof to the arts of designing, engraving, and etching his- torical and other Prints." D. CALDWELL, _ • -r *- Clerk of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. OEC 2 9 19* 1 OBERUN COLLEGE LIBRARY 58593 /c CONFESSION OF FAITH. CHAPTER L Of the Holy Scripture. ) 3 / ALTHOUGH the light of nature, and the works of creation and providence, do so far manifest the goodness, wisdom, and power of God, as to leave men inexcusable 3 ; yet they are not sufficient to give that knowledge of God, and of his will, which is necessary unto salvation 13 ; therefore it pleased I. a Rom. ii. 14, 15. For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves ; which show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the meanwhile ac- cusing, or else excusing one another. Rom. i. 19, 20. Be cause that which may be known of God is manifest in them : for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being un- derstood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse. Psal. xix. 1, 2, 3. The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament ehoweth his handy work. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. There is no speech nor language where their voice is not heard. See Rom. i. 32. with Rom. ii. 1. b 1 Cor. i. 21. For after that in the wisdom of God, the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the fool- ishness of preaching to save them that believe. 1 Cor. ii. 13, 2 THE CONFESSION OF . 1ITH. the Lord, at sundry times, and ir divers manners, to reveal himself, and to declare lhat his will unto his church ; and afterwards for the better pre- serving and propagating of the truth, and for the more sure establishment and comfort of the church against the corruption of the flesh, and the malice of Satan and of the world, to commit the same wholly unto writing' 1 ; which maketh the Holy Scripture to be most necessary e $ those former ways of God's revealing his will unto his people being now ceased f . 14. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom, teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth ; com- paring spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God ; for they are fool- ishness unto him : neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. c Heb. i. 1. God, who at sundry times, and in divers man- ners, spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets. d Luke i. 3, 4. It seemed good to me also, having had per- fect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus, that thou might- est know the certainty of those things wherein thou hast been instructed. Rom. xv. 4. For whatsoever things were writ- ten aforetime were written for our learning ; that we, through patience and comfort of the Scriptures, might have hope. Isa. viii. 20. To the law and to the testimony : if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Rev. xxii. 18. e 2 Tim. iii. 15. And that Irom a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, -which are able to make thee wise unto sal- vation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 2 Pet. i. 19. We have also a more sure word of prophecy ; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day-star arise in your hearts. f Heb. i. 1, 2. God, who at sundry times, and in divers manners, spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds. THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 3 II. Under the name of Holy Scripture, or the word of God written, are now contained all the books of the Old and New Testament, which are these : OF THE OLD TESTAMENT. Genesis. Ezra. Daniel. Exodus. Nchemiah. Hosea. Leviticus. Esther. Joel. Numbers* Job. Amos. Deuteronomy. Psalms. Obadiah. Joshua. Proverbs. Jonah. Judges* Ecclesiastes. Micah. Ruth. The Song of Nahum. L Samuel. Songs. Habakkuk. II. Samuel. Isaiah. Zephaniah. L Kings. Jeremiah. Haggai. II. Kings. Lamentations. Zechariah. I. Chronicles. Ezekiel. Malachi. II. Chronicles. OF THE NEW TESTAMENT. The Gospels ac • Galatians. The Hebrews. cording to Ephesians. The Epistle of Matthew. Philippians. James. Mark. Colossians. The first and se- Luke. I. Thessalonians. cond Epistle- John. II. Thessaloni- of Peter. The Acts of the ans. The first, second, Apostles. To /. Timothy. and third Epis- PauPs Epistles To //. Timothy. tles of John. to the Romans. To Titus. The Epistle of /. Corinthians. To Philemon. Jude. II. Corinthians. The Epistle to The Revelation. 4 THE CONFESSION OF 1AITH. All which are given by inspiration of God, to be the rule of faith and life g . III. The books commonly called Apocrypha, not being of divine inspiration, are no part of the canon of the Scripture ; and therefore are of no authority in the church of God, nor to be any otherwise approved, or made use of, than other human writings 11 . IV. The authority of the Holy Scripture, for which it ought to be believed and obeyed, depend- eth not upon the testimony of any man or church, but wholly upon God, (who is truth itself) the au- thor thereof; and therefore it is to be received, because it is the word of God 1 . II. ff Eph. ii. 20. And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief cor- ner-s/cme. Rev. xxii. 18, 19. For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, if any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book : And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. 2 Tim. iii. 16. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruc- tion in righteousness. III. h Luke xxiv. 27. And beginning at Moses and all the prophet"?, he expounded unto them in all the Scriptures, the things concerning himself. Ver. 44. And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the Psalms, concerning me. 2 Pet. i. 21. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man ; but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. IV. * 2 Tim. iii. 16. All Scripture is given by inspiration oJ God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. 1 John v. 9. If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater : Fcr this THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 5 V. We may be moved and induced by the tes- timony of the church to an high and reverend es- teem for the Holy Scripturc k ; and the heavenli- ness of the matter, the efficacy of the doctrine, the majesty of the style, the consent of all the parts, the scope of the whole, (^ which is to give all glory to God) the full discovery it makes of the only way of man's salvation, the many other incompa- rable excellencies, and the entire perfection there- of, are arguments whereby it doth abundantly evi- dence itself to be the word of God ; yet, notwith- standing, our full persuasion and assurance of the infallible truth, and divine authority thereof, is from the inward work of the Holy Spirit, bearing witness by and with the word, in our hearts 1 . is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son. 1 Thess. ii. 13. For this cause also thank we God without ceas- ing, because, when ye received the word of God, which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but (as it is in truth) the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe. V. k 1 Tim. iii. 15. But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. 1 1 John ii. 20, 27. But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things. — But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you : but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. John xvi. 13, 14. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth : for he shall not speak of himself ; but whatsoever he shall hear, Ikat shall he speak ; and he will show you things to come. — He shall glorify me : for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you. — 1 Cor. ii. 10, 11, 12. But God hath revealed Ihtm unto us by his Spirit ; for the Spirit search- eth all things, yea the deep things of God. — For what man knosveth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which 6 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH, VI. The whole counsel of God, concerning all things necessary for his own glory, man's salva- tion, faith, and life, is either expressly set down in Scripture, or by good and necessary consequence may be deduced from Scripture : unto which no- thing at any time is to be added, whether by new revelations of the Spirit, or traditions of men™. Nevertheless we acknowledge the inward illumi- nation of the Spirit of God to be necessary for the saving understanding of such things as are revealed in the word Q ; and there are some circumstances concerning the worship of God, and government of the church, common to human actions and so- cieties, which are to be ordered by the light of nature and Christian prudence, according to the is in him ? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. VI. m 2 Tim. iii. 16, 17. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correc- tion, for instruction in righteousness, That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. — Gal. i. 8. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other Gospel unto you than that which we have preach- ed unto you, let him be accursed. — 2 Thess. ii. 2. That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. n John vi. 45. It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me. 1 Cor. ii. 9, 10, 12. But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. — But God hath re- pealed them unto us by his Spirit : for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea Che deep things of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is of God ; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 7 general rules of the word, which are always to be observed . VII. All things in Scripture arc not alike plain in themselves, nor alike clear unto all p ; yet those things which are necessary to be known, believed, and observed, for salvatibn, are so clearly pro- pounded and opened in some place of Scripture or other, that not only the learned, but the unlearn- ed, in a due use of the ordinary means, may attain Mnto a sufficient understanding of them q . VIII. The Old Testament in Hebrew, (which was the native language of the people of God of old) and the New Testament in Greek, (which at the time of the writing of it was mest generally known to the nations) being immediately inspired by God, and by his singular care and providence, kept pure in all ages, are therefore authentical 1 " ; so as in all controversies of religion the church is finally to appeal unto them 9 . But because these 1 Cor. xi. 13, 14. Judge in yourselves : Is it comely that a woman pray unto God uncovered? Doth not even nature .tself teach you, that if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him ? 1 Cor. xiv. 26, 40. How is it then brethren ? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doc- trine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. Let all things be done decently and in order. VII. p 2 Pet. iii. 16. As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things*; in which are some things hard to be un- derstood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction. ight all things are open and manifest' ; his know- ledge is infinite, infallible, and independent upon the creature*; so as nothing is to him contingent or uncertain 1 . He is most holy in all his coun- sels, in his works, and in all his commands 110 . To f Job xxii. 2, 3. Can a man be profitable unto God, as he that is wise may be profitable unto himself? Is it any pleasure to the Almighty that thou art righteous ? or is it gain to him that thu makest thy ways perfect ? s Rom. xi. 36. For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things : to whom be glory for ever. Amen. h Rev. iv. 11. Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory, and honour, and power : for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are, and were created. Dan. iv. 25, 35. — The Most High ruleth in Uie kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will. — And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing : and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth ; and none can stav his hand, or sav unto him. What doest thou ? See 1 Tim. vi. 16. on the letter 4 . 1 Heb. iv. 13. Neither is there any creature that is not ma- nifest in his sight : but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. k Rom. xi. 33, 34. O the depth of the riches both of tne wisdom and knowledge of God ! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out ! — For who hath known the mind of the Lord ? or who hath been his counsellor ? Psal. cxlvii. 5. Great is our Lord, and of great power : his under- standing is infinite. 1 Acts xv. 18. Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world. Ezek. xi. 5. And the Spirit of the Lord fell upon me, and said unto me, Speak, Thus saith the Lord, Thus have ye said, O house of Israel ; for I know the things that come into your mind, every one of them. m l'sal cxlv. 17. The Lord is righteous in all his ways, and 14 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. him is due from angels and men, and every other creature, whatsoever worship, service or obe- dience, he is pleased to require of them 11 , III. In unity of the Godhead there be three persons of one substance, power, and eternity; God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost . The Father is of none, neither begotten nor proceeding; the Son is eternally begotten of the Father? ; the Holy Ghost eternally proceed- ing from the Father and the Son q . holy in all his works. Rom. vii. 12. Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. n Rev. v. 12, 13, 14. Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing. — And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever. — And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever. III. ° 1 John v. 7. For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost ; and these three are one. Matt. iii. 16, 17. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water ; and lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him : — And lo, a *oice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Matt, xxviii. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. 2 Cor. xiii. 14. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. p John i. 14, 18. And the Word was made flesh, and dwell among us (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth. No man hath seen God at any time ; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him. <» John xv. 26. But when the Comforter is come, whom 1 will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of trutlu THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 15 CHAPTER III. Of GocPs Eternal Deciee. CjOD from all eternity did by the most wise and holy counsel of his own will, freely and unchange- ably ordain whatsoever comes to pass a ; yet so as thereby neither is God the author of sin b ; nor is violence offered to the will of the creatures, noi is the liberty or contingency of second causes taken away, but rather established . which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me. Gal. iv. 6. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. I. a Eph. i. 11. In whom also we have obtained an inheri- tance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will. Rom. xi. 33. O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and know- ledge of God ! how unsearchable are, his judgments, and his ways past finding out ! Heb. vi. 17. Wherein God, willing more abundantly tc show unto the heirs of promise the immu- tability of his counsel, omfirmed it by an oath. Rom. ix. 15, 18. For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. — Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth. b Jam. i. 13, 17. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God ; for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man. — Every good gift, and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. 1 John i. 5. This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. Eccl. vii. 29. c Acts ii. 23. Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain. Matt. xvii. 12. But I say unto you, that Elias is come already, and they knew him uot, but have done unto him whatsoever they listed ; likewise 2* 16 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. II. Although God knows whatsoever may or can come to pass, upon all supposed conditions d ; yet hath he not decreed any thing because he foresaw it as future, or as that which would come to pass, upon such conditions e . III. By the decree of God, for the manifesta- tion of his glory, some men and angels f are pre- shall also the Son of man suffer of them. Acts iv. 27, 28. For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, were gathered together, for to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done. John xix. 11. Jesus answered, Thou couldst have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above : therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin. Prov. xvi. 33. The lot is cast into the lap ; but the whole dis- posing thereof is of the Lord. Acts xxvii. 23, 24. compared with v. 34. II. d Acts xv. 18. Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world. 1 Sam. xxiii. 11, 12. Will the men of Keilah deliver me up into his hand ? Will Saul come down, as thy servant hath heard ? O Lord God of Israel, I be- seech thee, tell thy servant. And the Lord said, He will come down. — Then said David, Will the men of Keilah deliver me and my men into the hand of Saul ? And the Lord said, They will deliver thee up. Matt. xi. 21, 23. Wo unto thee, Chora- zin ! wo unto thee, Bethsaida ! for if the mighty works which were done in you had be'en done in Tyre and Sidon, tht.y would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shalt b$ brought down to hell ; for if the mighty works which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have re - mained until this day. e Rom. ix. 11, 13, 16, 18. For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth ; — As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated. — So then, it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that showeth mercy. — There- fore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy , and whom ho will he hardeneth. III. f 1 Tim. v. 21. I charge thee before God and the Lord THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 17 destinatcd unto everlasting life, and others fore- ordained to everlasting death*. IV. These angels and men, thus predestinated and fore-ordained, are particularly and unchange- ably designed ; and their number is so certain and definite that it cannot be either increased or dimi- nished h . V. Those of mankind that are predestinated unto life, God, before the foundation of the world ivas laid, according to his eternal and immutable purpose, and the secret counsel and good pleasure of his will, hath chosen in Christ, unto everlasting glory', out of his mere free grace and love, with- out any foresight of faith or good works, or per- severance in either of them, or any other thing in the creature, as conditions, or causes moving him Jesus? Christ, and the elect angels. Matt. xxv. 41. Then shall he say also unto them on the left-hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels. e Rom. ix. 22, 23. What if God, willing to show his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much long-suf- fering, the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction : — And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels oi mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory ? Eph. i. 5, 6. Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. Prov. xvi. 4. The Lord hath made all things for himself; yea, even the wicked for the day of evil. IV. h 2 Tim. ii. 19. Nevertheless, the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. John xiii. 18. I speak not of you all ; I know whom I have chosen. V. • F.ph. i. 4, 9, 11. According as he hath chosen us in him, before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love ; — Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure, which 18 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. thereunto k ; and all to the praise of his glorious grace 1 . VI. As God hath appointed the elect unto glo- ry, so hath he, by the eternal and most free pur- pose of his will, fore-ordained all the means there- unto 03 . Wherefore they who are elected being fallen in Adam, are redeemed by Christ", are ef- fectually called unto faith in Christ by his Spirit working in due season ; are justified, adopted, sanctified , and kept by his power through faith he hath purposed in himself. — In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose oi him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will. Rom. viii. 30. Moreover, whom he did predestinate, them he also called ; and whom he called, them he also justified ; and whom he justified, them he also glorified. 2 Tim. 1.9. Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began. 1 Thess v. 9. For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ. k Rom. ix. 11, 13, 16. See letter e immediately foregoing. Eph. i. 4, 9. See letter *, &c. 1 Eph. i. 6, 12. To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved : That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ . VI. m Eph. i. 4. According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love. Eph. ii. 10. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ *esus unto grod works, which God hath before ordained that tve should walk in them. 2 Thess. ii. 13. But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, brethren, beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation, through sanctifi- cation of the Spirit, and belief of the truth. n 1 Thess. v. 9, 10. For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, who hied for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. Tit. ii. 14. Rom, viii. 30. — Them he also called. Eph. i. 5. — Accord- THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 19 jnto salvation p . Neither are any other redeemed by Christ, effectually called, justified, adopted, sanctified, and saved, but the elect only' 1 . VII. The rest of mankind, God was pleased, according to the unsearchable counsel of his own will, whereby he extendeth or withholdeth mercy as he pleaseth, for the glory of his sovereign power over his creatures, to pass by, and to ordain them to dishonour and wrath for their sin, to the praise of his glorious justice'. ing to the good pleasure of his will. 2 Thess. ii. 13. — Through sanctification of the Spirit, and belief of the truth. P 1 Peter i. 5. Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. q John xvii. 9. I pray ibr them : I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me ; for they are thine. Rom. viii. 28. And we know that all things work together for good, to them that love God, to them who are the called ac- cording to his purpose, Sec, [to the end of the chapter.] John vi. 64, 65. But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. — And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. See John viii. 47. and x. 26. — 1 John ii. ID. They went out from us, but they were not of us; for {{ they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us ; but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us. VII. r Matt. xi. 25, 26. At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast re- vealed them unto babes. Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in thy sight. Rom. ix. 17, 18, 21, 22. For the Scrip- tare saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up that I might show my power in thee, and that my name night be declared throughout all the earth. — Therefore hath ne mercy, &c. Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour ? What if God, willing to show his wrath, and to make his power known, endured witl nuch long-suffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction. J Tim. ii. £0. — But 20 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH, VIII. The doctrine of this high mystery of pre- destination is to be handled with special prudence and care 5 , that men attending the will of God re- vealed in his word, and yielding obedience there- unto, may, from the certainty of their effectual vocation, be assured of their eternal election 1 . So shall this doctrine afford matter of praise, reve rence, and admiration of God v ; and of humility diligence and abundant consolation, to all that sin cerely obey the Gospel w . in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and soma to dishonour. Jude 4. For there are certain men crept in un- awares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation ; ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ, 1 Pet. ii. 8. being disobedient ; whereunto also they were ap- pointed. VIII. 8 Rom. ix. 20. and xi. 33. Nay but, O man, who art thou, that repliest against God ? shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus ? O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God ! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out ! Deut. xxix. 29. The secret things belong unto the Lord our God ; but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law. 1 2 Pet. i. 10. — Give diligence to make your calling and elec- tion sure ; for if ye do these tilings, ye shall never fall. v Eph. i. 6. To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. See Rom. xi. 33. letter*. w Rom. xi. 5, 6, 20. and viii. 33. Even so then at this pre- sent time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. — And if by grace, then is it no more of works ; otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace ; otherwise work is no more work. — Well ; because o( unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not high-minded, but fear. — Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect ? // is God that justiiieth. Luke x. 20 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 21 CHAPTER IV. Of Creation. IT pleased God the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost*, for the manifestation of the glory of his eternal power, wisdom, and goodness b , in the beginning, to create or make of nothing, the world, and all things therein, whether visible or invisible, in the space of six days, aud all very good . II. After God had made all other creature*, he created man, male and female d , with reasonable and immortal souls e , endued with knowledge, Notwithstanding, in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you ; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven. I. a Heb. i. 2. Hath in those last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds. John i. 2, 3. The same was in the be- ginning with God. — All things were made by him ; and with- out him was not any thing made that was made. Job xxvi. 13. and xxxiii. 4. By his Spirit he hath garnished the heavens ; his hand hath formed the crooked serpent. — The Spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almightv hath given me life. h Rom. i. 20. For the invisible things of him from the crea- tion of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead ; so that they are without excuse. Psal. civ. 24. O Lord, how manifold are thy works ! in wisdom hast thou made them all - the earth is full of thy riches. - Gen. 1st. chap, throughout. Col. i. 16. For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visi- ble and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers : all things were created by him and for him. II. d Gen. i. 27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him 5 male and female created he them. e Gou. ii. 7. And the Lord God formed man of the dust of 22 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. righteousness, and true holiness, after his own image f , having the law of God written in their hearts 5 , and power to fulfil it h ; and yet under a possibility of transgressing, being left to the liberty of their own will which was subject unto change 1 . Besides this law written in their hearts, they re- ceived a command not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil; whicji while they kept they were happy in their communion with God k , and had dominion over the creatures 1 . the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life ; and man became a living soul. Luke xxiii. 43. See also Eccl. xii. 7. Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was ; and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it. And, Matt. x. 28. And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul ; but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. f Gen. i. 26. And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. e Rom. ii. 14, 15. For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these having not the law, are a law unto themselves. — Which show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accu- sing, or else excusing one another. h Eccl. vii. 29. Lo, this only have I found, that God hath made man upright ; but they have sought out many in- ventions. * Gen. iii. 6. And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise ; she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat ; and gave also unto her husband with her, and he did eat. See Eccl. vii. 29. k Gen. ii. 17. But of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it ; for in the day that thou eatest thereof, thou shalt surely die. See Gen. iii. 8. — xi. 23. 1 Gen. i. 28. — And have dominion over the hsh of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. See Psal. viii. 6, 7, 8. THL CONCESSION OF FAITH. 23 CHAPTER V. Of Providence* GOD, the great Creator of all things, doth up- hold a , direct, dispose, and govern all creatures, ac- tions, and things 5 , from the greatest even to the least , by his most wise and holy providence (J , ac- cording to his infallible foreknowledge e , and the free and immutable counsel of his own will f , to f. a Heb. i. 3. Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image^of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his povver, . b Dan. iv. 34, 35. — I blessed the Most High, and I praised and honoured him that liveth for ever, whose dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom is from generation to generation. — And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed is nothing : and he doeth according to his will in the army of neaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth ; and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou ? Psal. cxxxv. 6. Whatsoever the Lord pleased, that did he in hea- ven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places. See also Acts xvii. 25, 26, 28. and Job xxxviii, xxxix, xl, xli chapters. c Mat. x. 29, 30, 31. Are not two sparrows sold for a far- thing ? And one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. — But the very hairs of your head are all num- bered. — Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. See also Matt. vi. 26, 30. d Prov. xv. 3. The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good. 2 Chron. xvi. 9. For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect towards him. See also Psal. cxlv. 17. and civ. 24. e Acts xv. 18. Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world. f Eph. i. 11. — Who worketh all things after the counsel ol his own will. Psal xxxiiL 11. — The counsel of the Lonl 24 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. the praise of the glor} of his wisdom, power, jus- tice, goodness and. mercy g . II. Although in relation to the foreknowledge, and decree of God, the first cause, all things como to pass immutably and infallibly 11 , yet, by the same providence, he ordereth them to fall out according to the nature of second causes, either necessarily freely, or contingently 1 . III. God, in his ordinary providence, maketh standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all genera* tions. * Eph. iii. 10. To the intent that now unto the principali- ties and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God. Rom. ix. 17. For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have 1 raised thee up, that I might show my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth. PsaL cxlv. 7. They shall abundantly utter the memory of thy great goodness, and shall sing of thy righteousness. II. h Acts ii. 23. Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain. ' Gen. viii. 22. While the earth remaineth, seed-time and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and daj and night, shall not cease. Jer. xxxi. 35. Thus saith the Lord, which giveth the sun for a light by day, and the ordinances of the moon and of the stars for a light by night, which divideth the sea when the waves thereof roar; the Lord of hosts is his name. Exod. xxi. 13. If a man lie not in wait, but God de- liver him into his hand, then I will appoint thee a place whi- ther he shall flee. 1 Kings xxii. 34. And a certain man drew a bow at a venture, and smote the king of Israel between the joints of the harness : wherefore he said unto the driver of his chariot, Turn thy hand, and carry me out of the host; for I am wounded. Isai. x. 6, 7. I will send him against an hypo- critical nation ; and against the people of my wrath will 1 give him a charge, to take the spoil, and to take the prey, and to tread them down. Howbeit, he meaneth not so, neither doth his heart think so ; but it is in his heart to destroy, and cut off nations not a few. THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 25 use of means*, yet is free to work without 1 , above™, and against them, at his pleasure , JV . The almighty power, unsearchable wisdom, and infinite goodness ot God, so far manifest them- selves in his providence, that it extendeth itself even to the first fall, and all other sins of angels and men°, and that not by a bare permission, but such as hath joined with it a most wise and power- Ill. k Acts xxvii. 24, 31. Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Cresar : and lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. Paul said to the centurion, and to the soldiers, Except these abide in the ship, ye cannot be saved. Isai. lv. 10, 11. For as the rain cometh down, and the snow, from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater. So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth ; it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. 1 Hos. i. 7. But I will have mercy upon the house.of Ju- dah, and I will save them by the Lord their God, and will not save them by bow, nor by sword, nor by battle, byhcrses, nor by horsemen. m Rom. iv. 19, 20, 21. And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead ; when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sarah's womb. — He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God. — And being fuJly persuaded that what he had promised, he was able also to per- form n 2 Kings vi. 6. And the man of God said, Where fell it? And he showed him the place. And he cut down a stick, and cast it in thither, and the iron did swim. Dan. iii. 27. And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king's counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them. IV. ° Rom. xi. 32, 33. For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all. — O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God ! how 26 THE CONFESSION OP FAITH. Ail bounding?, and otherwise ordering and govern- ing of them, in a manifold dispensation, to his own holy ends q ; yet so, as the sinfulness thereof pro- ceedeth only from the creature, and not from God ; unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding oul i 2 Sam. xxiv. 1. with 1 Chron. xxi. I. And again the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel, and he moved David against them to say, Go, number Israel and Judah. 1 Chron. x. 4. xiii. 14. Then said Saul to his armour-bearer, Draw thy sword, and thrust me through therewith ; lest these uncircum- cised come, and abuse me. But his armour-bearer would not, for he was sore afraid. So Saul took a sword, and fell upon it. So Saul died, for his transgression which he committed against the Lord, even against the word of the Lord which he kept not, and also for asking counsel of one that had a familiar spirit to inquire of it ; and inquired not of the Lord ; therefore he slew him, and turned the kingdom unto David the son of Jesse. 2 Sam. xvi. 10. And the king said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah ? So let him curse, because the Lord hath said unto him, Curse David. Who shall then say, Where- fore hast thou done so? See also Acts iv. 27, 28. For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus whom thou hast anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the peo- ple of Israel, were gathered together. — For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done. p Psal. lxxvi. 10. Surely the wrath of man shall praise thee ; the remainder of wrath shalt thou restrain. 2 Kings xix. 28. Because thy rage against me and thy tumult is come up into mine ears, therefore I will put my hook in thy nose, and my bridle in thy lips, and I will turn thee back by the way which thou earnest. i Gen. 1. 20. But as for you, ye thought evil against me ; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive. Isai. x. 6, 7, 12. I will send him against an hypocritical nation, and against the people of my wrath will I give him a charge, to take the spoil, and to take the prey, and to tread them down like the mire of the streets. — Howbeit, he meaneth not so, neither doth his heart think so , but it is in his heart to destroy and cut off nations not a few. — Wherefore it shall come to pass, that when the Lord hath per- formed his whole work upon Mount Zion, and on Jerusalem, I will punish the fruit of the stout heart of the king of Assy rja, and the glory of his high looks. THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 27 who being most holy and righteous, neither is, nor can be the author or approver of sin r . W The most wise, righteous and gracious God, doth oftentimes leave for a season his own chil- dren to manifold temptations, and the corruption of their own hearts, to chastise them for their for- mer sins, or to discover unto them the hidden strength of corruption, and deceitfulness of their hearts, that they may be humbled 3 ; and to raise them to a more close and constant dependance for their support upon himself, and to make them more watchful against all future occasions of sin, and for sundry other just and holy ends 1 . r 1 John ii. 16. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. Psal. 1. 21. These things hast thou done, and I kept silence : thou thoughtest that I was altogether such a one as thyself : but I will reprove thee, and set them in order before thine eyes. — See also, James i. 13, 14, 17. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man : — But every man is tempted, when he is drawu away of his own lust, and enticed. — Every good gift, and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. V. • 2 Chron. xxxii. 25, 26, 31. But Hezekiah rendered not again according to the benefit done unto him ; for his heart was lifted up : therefore there was wrath upon him, and upon Judah and Jerusalem. Notwithstanding Hezekiah humbled himself for the pride of his heart, both he and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that the wrath of the Lord came not upon them in the days of Hezekiah. — Howbeit, in the business of the ambassadors of the princes of Babylon, who sent unto him to inquire of the wonder that was done in the land, God left him to try him, that he might know all that was in his heart. 1 2 Tor. xii. 7, S, 9. And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buf- fet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. — For this thing 3* 28 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. VI. As for those wicked and ungodly men whom God, as a righteous judge, for former sins, doth .blind and harden v ; from them he not only withholdeth his grace, whereby they might have been enlightened in their understandings, and wrought upon in their hearts^ ; but sometimes also withdraweth the gifts which they had x 5 and ex- poseth them to such objects as their corruption makes occasion of sin y ; and withal, gives them over to their own lusts, the temptations of the I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.— And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee : for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Psal. Ixxiii. throughout. Psal. lxxvii. 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12. Mark xiv. 66th ver. to the end, John xxi. 15, 16, 17. VI. v Rom. i. 24, 26, 28. and xi. 7, 8. Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves ; — For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections ; for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature : — and even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient. — What then ? Is- rael .hath not obtained that which he seeketh for, but the elec- tion hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded. — According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear unto this day. w Deut. xxix. 4. Yet the Lord hath not given you an heart to perceive, and eyes to see, and ears to hear, unto this day x Matt. xiii. 12. But whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath. See Matt. xxv. 29. 7 2 Kings viii. 12, 13. And Hazael said, Why weepeth my lord ? And he answered, Because I know the evil that thou wilt do unto the children of Israel : their strong holds wilt thou set on fire, and their young men wilt thou slay with the sword, and wilt dash their children, and rip up their women with child. — And Hazael said, But what, is thy servant a dog that he should do this great thing? And Elisha answered, The Lord hath showed me that thou shall be king over Syria. THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 29 world, and the power of Satan 1 ; whereby it comes ro pass that they harden themselves, even under those means which God useth for the softening of others 1 . A" II. As the providence of God doth, in general, reach to all creatures ; so, after a most special manner, it taketh care of his church, and disposeth all things to the good thereof*. CHAPTER VI. Of the Fall of JWan, of Sm, and of the Punishment thereof OUR first parents, being seduced by the subtilty and temptation of Satan, sinned in eating the for- 1 Psal. lxxxi. 11, 12. But my people would not hearken to my voice ; and Israel would none of me. — So I gave them up unto their own hearts' lust ; and they walked in their own counsels. 2 Thess. ii. 10, 11, 12. And with all deceivable- ness of unrighteousness in them that perish ; because they re- ceived not the love of the truth ; that they might be saved. — And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie ; that they all might be damned, who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness. a Exod. viii. 15, 32. But when Pharaoh saw that there was respite, he hardened his heart, and hearkened not unto them ; as the Lord had said ; And Pharaoh hardened his heart at this time also, neither would he let the people go. 2 Cor. ii. 15, 16. For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ in them that are saved, and in them that perish : — To the one ue are the savour of death unto death ; and to the other, the sa- vour of life unto life. Isai. viii. 14. And he shall be for a sanctuary ; but for a stone of stumbling, and for a rock of of- fence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin, and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. See also Exod. vii. 3. 1 Pet. ii, 7, 8. Isai. vi. 9, 10. with Acts xxviii. 26, 27. VII. b Amos ix. 8, 9. Behold, the eyes of the Lord God are upon the sinful kingdom, and I will destroy it from off the face 30 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. bidden fruit a . This their sin God was pleased, according to his wise and holy counsel, to per- mit, having purposed to order it to his own glo- ry 1 '. II. By this sin they fell from their original righteousness, and communion with God c , and so became dead in sin d , and wholly defiled in all the faculties and parts of soul and body e . III. They being the root of all mankind, the of the earth ; saving that I will not utterly destroy the house oi Jacob, saith the Lord — For lo, I will command, and I will sift the house of Israel among all nations, like as corn is sifted in a sieve, yet shall not the least grain fall upon the earth. Rom. viii. 28. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. I. a Gen. iii. 13. — And the woman said, The serpent be- guiled me, and I did eat. 2 Cor. xi. 3. But I fear lest by anv means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtiltv, so vour minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. h Rom. xi. 32. For God hath concluded them all in unbe- lief, that he might have mercy upon all. II. c Gen. iii. 7, 8. And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked : and they sewed fig- leaves together, and made themselves aprons. — And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool oi the day : and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the pre- sence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden. Eccl. vii. 29. Lo, this only have 1 found, that God hath made man upright; but they have sought out many inventions. Rom. iii. 23. For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. d Eph. ii. 1. And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins. Rom. v. 12. Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin ; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned. e Gen. vi. 5. And God saw that the wickedness of man wa* great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart, was only evil continually. Jer. xvii. 9. The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked , who can know it ? See also Rom. iii. 10. to the 19th ver. THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 31 guilt of this sin was imputed*", and the same death in sin and corrupted nature conveyed to all their posterity, descending from them by ordinary gene- ration?. IV. From this original corruption, whereby we are utterly indisposed, disabled, and made opposite to all good 11 , and wholly inclined to all evil', do proceed all actual transgressions k . III. f Acts xvii. 26. And hath made of one blood, all na- tions of men, for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; and Gen. ii. 16, 17. with Rom. v. 12, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19. and 1 Cor. xv. 21, 22, 45, 49. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead : For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive : and so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living; soul ; the last Adam was made a quickening Spirit. — And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. s Psal. Ii. 5. Behold, I was shapen in iniquity ; and in sin did my mother conceive me. Gen. v. 3. And Adam lived an hundred and thirty years, and begat a son in his own likeness, after his image ; and called his name Seth. Job xiv. 4. Who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean ? not one. Job xv. 14. What is man that he should be clean ? and he which is born of a woman, that he should be righteous 'i IV. h Rom. v. 6. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. Rom. viii. 7. Be- cause the carnal mind is enmity against God ; for it is not sub- ject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. John iii. 6. That which is born of the flesh is flesh ; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Rom. vii. 18. Fori know that in me, that is in my flesh, dwelleth no good thing; for to will is pre- sent with me, but how to perform that which is good I find not. 1 Gen. viii. 21% And the Lord said, The imagination of man's heart is evil from his youth. Rom. iii. 10, 11, 12. As it is written, There is none righteous, no not one : — There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God* They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable, there is none that doeth good, no not one. k James i. 14, 15. But e^erv man is tempted when he is 39 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. V This corruption of nature, during this life, doth remain in those that are regenerated 1 ; and although it be through Christ pardoned and morti- fied, yet both itself, and all the motions thereof, are truly and properly sin 33 . VI. Every sin, both original and actual, being a transgression of the righteous law of God, and con- trary thereunto", doth, in its own nature, bring guilt upon the sinner , whereby he is bound over to the drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. — Then, when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin ; and sin, when it is finish- ed, bringeth forth death. Matt. xv. 19. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. V. I Rom. vii. 14, 17, 18, 23. For we know that the law is spiritual ; but I am carnal, sold under sin. Now then, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. For I know that in me, that is, in my flesh, dwelleth no good thing : for to will is present with me, but how to perform that which is good, 1 find not. But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. James iii. 2. For in many things we offend all. Prov. xx. 9. Who can say, I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin ? Eccl. vii. 20. For there is not a j ust man upon earth that doeth good and sin- neth not. m Rom. vii. 5, 7, 8, 25. For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sin which were by the law did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death. What shall we say then ? Is the law sin ? God forbid. Nay, 1 had not known sin, but by the law : for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. But sin taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God ; but with the flesh the law oJ sin. VI. n 1 John iii. 4. Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law, for sin is the transgression of the law ° Rom. iii. 19. Now we know, that what things -oever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law ; that every THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 33 wrath of God*\ and curse of the law q , and so made subject to death', with all miseries spiritual 8 , tem- poral 1 , and eternal''. CHAPTER VII. Of God? s Covenant zvith Man. THE distance between God and the creature is so great, that although reasonable creatures do owe obedience unto him as their creator, yet they could never have any fruition of him, as their blessedness and reward, but by some voluntary condescension on God's part, which he hath been pleased to express by way of covenant 3 . mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. p Eph. ii. 3. and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. i Gal. iii. 10. For as many as are of the works of the law, are under the curse : for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. r Rom. vi. 23. For the wages of sin is death. 8 Eph. iv. 18. Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart. 1 Lam. iii. 39. Wherefore doth a living man complain, a man for the punishment of his sins ? r Matt. xxv. 41. Then shall he say also unto them on the left-hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, pre- pared for the devil and his angels. 2 Thess. i. 9. Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power. I. & Job ix. 32, 33. For he is not a man, as I am, that I should answer him, and we should come together in judgment. Neither is their any days-man betwixt us, that might lay his hand upon us both. Psal. cxiii. 5, 6. Who is like unto the Lord our God, who dwelleth on high? Who humbleth him* 34 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. II. The first covenant made with man was a covenant of Works 11 , wherein life was promised to Adam, and in him to his posterity , upon condition of perfect and personal obedience (l . III. Man, by his fall, having made himself in- capable of life by that covenant, the Lord was pleased to make a second e , commonly called the covenant of Grace : wherein he freely offereth unto sinners life and salvation by Jesus Christ, re- quiring of them faith in him, that they may be saved f , and promising to give unto all those that self to behold the things that are in heaven, and in the earth. Acts xvii. 24, 25. God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands : — Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things. See also Job xxxv. 7, 8. and Luke xvii. 10. II. b Gal. iii. 12. And the law is not of faith : but, The man that doeth them shall live in them. Hosea vi. 7. Gen. ii. 16, 17. c Rom. x. 5. For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, that the man which doeth those tilings shall live by them. d Gen. ii. IT- But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it ; for in the day that thou eatest thereof, thou shalt surely die. Gal. iii. 10. For as many a9 are of the works of the law, are under the curse ; for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. III. e Gal. iii. 21.— For if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. Rom. viii. 3. For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin condemned sin iii the flesh. Isai. xlii. 6. I the Lord have called thee in righte- ousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gen- tiles. Gen. iii. 15. f Mark xvi. 15, 16. And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, an J preach the Gospel to every creature. He that THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 35 are ordained unto life his Iloty Spirit to make them willing and able to believed IV. This covenant of grace is frequently set forth in Scripture by the name of a testament, in reference to the death of Jesus Christ, the testa- tor, and to the everlasting inheritance, with all things belonging to it therein bequeathed 11 . V. This covenant was differently administerc in the time of the law, and in the time of the Gos- pel' 1 : under the law it was administered by pro- believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he thatbelievelh not shall be damned. John iii. 16. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever be- lieveth in him, should not perish, but have everlasting life. 8 Ezek. xxxvi. 26, 27. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you, and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them. John vi. 37, 44. All that the Father giveth me shall come to me ; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.— No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him ; and I will raise him up at the last day. IV h Heb. ix. 15, 16, 17. And for this cause he is the me- diator of the new testament, that by means of death for the redemption of the transgressions that icere under the flrst testament, they which are called might receive the pro- mise of eternal inheritance. For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. — For a testament is of force after men are dead ; otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth. Heb. vii. 22. By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament. Luke xxii. 20. Likewise also the cup after supper,saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you. See also 1 Cor. xi. 2ft V. * 2 Cor. iii. 6, 7, tf, 9. Who also hath made us able mi- nisters of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spi- rit ; for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life. But if the ministration of death written and engraven in stones, was glo- 4 36 THE CONFESSION, OF FAITH. mises, prophecies, sacrifices, circumcision, the pas- chal lamb, and other types and ordinances deliver- ed to the people of the Jews, ail fore-signifying Christ to come k , which were for that time suffi- cient and efficacious, through the operation of the Spirit to instruct and build up the elect in faith, in the promised Messiah 1 , by whom they had full rious, so that the children of Israel could not steadfastly behold the face of Moses, for the glory of his countenance, which glory was to be done away ; — How shall not the ministration of the Spirit be rather glorious ? — For if the ministration ol condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. k Heb. viii, ix, x. chapters. Rom. iv. 1 1. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith, which he had, yet being uncircumcised ; that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not cir- cumcised ; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also. Col. ii. 11. In whom also ye are circumcised with the cir- cumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ, ver. 12. Bu- ried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him, through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. 1 Cor. v. 7. Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. — For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us. Col. ii. 17. Which are a shadow of things to come ; but the body is of Christ. 1 1 Cor. x. 1, 2, 3, 4. Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were un- der the cloud, and all passed through the sea ; and were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea. And did all eat the same spiritual meat; and did all drink the same spi- ritual drink. For they drank of that spiritual rock that followed them ; and that rock was Christ. Heb. xi. 1 3. These all died in faith, not having received the promises ; but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. John viii. 56. Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day ; and he saw it, and was glad. THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 37 remission of sins, and eternal salvation ; and is called the Old Testament*. VI. Under the Gospel, when Christ the sub* stance", was exhibited, the ordinances in which this covenant is dispensed, are the preaching of the word, and the administration of the sacraments of baptism and the Lord's supper ; which, though fewer in number, and administered with more sim- plicity and less outward glory, yet in them it is held forth in more fulness, evidence, and spiritual m Gal. iii. 7, 8, 9, 14. Know ye therefore, that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the Gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. — So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham. — That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. VI. n Coloss. ii. 17. Which are a shadow of things to come : but the body is of Christ. ° Matt, xxviii. 19, 20. Go ye therefore, and teach all na- tions, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the F >ly Ghost ;— teaching them to observe all things whatsoever i have commanded you : and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen. 1 Cor. xi. 23, 24, 25. For I have received of the Lord, that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus, the sajne night in which he was betrayed, took bread : and, when he had ^iven thanks, he brake i7, and said, Take, eat ; this is my bo- dy, which is broken for you : this do in remembrance of me After the same manner also, he took the cup, when he had sup- ped, saying, This cup is the New Testament in my blood : this do ye, as oft as ye drink?/, in remembrance of me. 2 Cor. iii. 7, G, 9, 10, 11. But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Is- rael could not steadfastly behold the face of Moses for theglorv of his countenance ; which glory was to be done away ; — How shall not *he ministration of the Spirit be rather glorious?— For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more 38 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH, efficacyP, to all nations, both Jews and Gentiles** •, and is called the New Testament/. There are not, therefore, two covenants of grace differing in substance, but one and the same under various dis- pensations 8 . CHAPTER VIII. Of Christ the Mediator. IT pleased God, in his eternal purpose, to choose and ordain the Lord Jesus, his only begotten Son, doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. — For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth.— For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remain- eth is glorious. P Heb. xii. 22 to 28. See also Jer. xxxi. 33, 34. q Seeletter and Matt, xxviii. 19. Eph. ii. 15, 16, 17, 18, 19. Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of com- mandments contained in ordinances ; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace ; — And that he might re- concile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby ; —And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. — For through him we both have an access by one Spirit unto the Father. — Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow- citizens with the saints, and of the household of God. r Luke xxii. 20. Likewise also the cup after supper, say- ing, This cup is the New Testament in my blood, which is shed for you. Heb. viii. 7, 8, 9. 8 Gal. iii. 14, 16. That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ ; that we might re- ceive the promise of the Spirit through faith. — Now to Abra- ham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many ; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ. Acts xv. 11. But we believe, that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, we shall be saved, even as they. Rom. iii. 30. — Seeing it is one God which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith. THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 30 to be the mediator between God and man*, the prophet*, priest 1 ', and king ; the head and saviour of his church 6 , the heir of all things f , and judge of the world?; unto whom he did from all eter- nity, give a people to be his seed 11 , and to be by I. a lea. xlii. 1. Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine eloct, in whom my soul delighteth: I have put my Spirit upcii him ; he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles. 1 Pet. i. 19, 20. — But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: — Who verily was fore-or- dained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you. 1 Tim. ii. 5. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and* men, the man Christ Jesus. See also John iii. 16. b Acts iii. 22. For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you, of your brethren, like unto me ; him shall ye hear in all tilings, what- soever he shall say unto you. Deut. xviii. 13. c Heb. v. 5, 6. So also Christ glorified not himself to be made a high priest ; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to-day have I begotten thee. As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever, after the order of Melchi- sedec. d Psal. ii. 6. Yet have 1 set my king upon my holy hill of Zion. Luke i. 33. And he shall reign over the house of Ja- cob for ever ; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. e Eph. v. 23. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church ; and he is the saviour of the body. f Heb. i. 2. Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things. s Acts xvii. 31. Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness, by that man whom he hath ordained ; whereof he hath given assurance un- to all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead. h John xvii. 6. I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world : thine they were, and thou gavest them me ; and they have kept thy word. Psal. xxii. 30. A seed shall serve him ; it shall be accounted to -lie Lord for a generation. Isa. liii. 10. Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise him ; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, "4* 40 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. him in time redeemed, called, justified, sanctified, and glorified 1 . II. The Son of God, the second person in the Trinity, being very and eternal God, of one sub- stance, and equal with the Father, did, when the fulness of time was come, take upon him man's nature k , and all the essential properties and com- mon infirmities thereof, yet without sin 1 : being conceived by the power of the Holy Ghost, in the womb of the Virgin Mary, of her substance 111 . So he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in his hand. 1 1 Tim. ii. 6. Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. Isai. lv. 4, 5. Behold, I have given him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people. — Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee, be- cause of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel ; foi he hath glorified thee. J Cor. i. 30. But of him are ye is Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righ- teousness, and sanctification, and redemption. II. k John i. 1, 14. In the beginning was the Word, — and the Word was God. — And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. 1 John v. 20. And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true ; and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life. Phil. ii. 6. Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God. Gal. lv. 4. But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law. Heb. ii. 17. Wherefore in all things it behooved him to be made like unto his brethren ; that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make re- conciliation for the sins of the people. Heb. iv. 15. For we have not a high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities ; but was in all points tempted like ad we are, yet without sin. ,n Luke i. 27, 31, 35. To a virgin espoused to a man, whose name was Joseph, of the house of David ; and the virgin's name THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 41 that two whole, perfect, and distinct natures, the Godhead and the manhood, were inseparably join- ed together in one person, without conversion, composition, cr confusion". Which person is very God, and very man, yet one Christ, the only me- diator between God and man . J II. The Lord Jesus, in his human nature thus united to the divine, was sanctified and anointed with the Holy Spirit ahove measure p ; having in him all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge* 1 , in whom it pleased the Father that all fulness should dwell 1 " : to the end that being holy, harm- icas Mary. — And behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring; forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus. And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee ; therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee, shall be called the Son of God. Gal. iv. 4. See letter k im- mediately foregoing. n Luke i. 35. See letter m immediately foregoing. Col. ii. 9. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. Rom. ix. 5. Whose are the fathers, and of whom, as concern- ing the flesh, Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen. 1 Tim. iii. 16. And without controversy, great is the mystery of godliness : God was manifest in the flesh. Rom. i. 3, 4. Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh ; And declared to be the Son of God with power, according 10 the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead. 1 Tim. ii. 5. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. III. p Psal. xlv. 7. — God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness, above thy fellows. John iii. 34. For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him. q Col. ii. 3. In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. r Col. i. 1 9. For it pleased the Father, that in him should all fulness dwelL 42 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. less, undefiled, and full of grace and truth 53 , he might be thoroughly furnished to execute the of- fice of a mediator and surety 1 . Which office he took not unto himself, but was thereunto called by his Father/ ; who put all power and judgment into liis hand, and gave him commandment to execute the same w . IV. This office the Lord Jesus did most will- ingly undertake 3 *, which, that he might discharge, he was made under the law^, and did perfectly fulfil it z ; endured most grievous torments imme- diately in his soul% and most painful sufferings in 8 Heb. vii. 26. For such a high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens. John i. 14. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. 1 Acts x. 38. How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost, and with power ; who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil : for God was with him. Heb. xii. 24. — And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel. Heb. vii. 22. By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament, v Heb. v. 5. So also Christ glorified not himself to be made a high priest ; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to- day have I begotten thee. w John v. 22, 27. For the Father judge th no man ; but hath committed all judgment unto the Son ; — And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man. Mat. xxviii. 18. And Jesus came, and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. IV. x Psal, xl. 7, 8. Then said I, Lo, 1 come : in the volume of the book it is written of me, I delight to do thy will, O my God ; yea, thy law is within my heart. Phil. ii. 8. And be- came obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. y Gal. iv. 4. But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law. 2 Mat. iii. 15. Thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteous- ness. Mat. v. 17. — I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. * Mat. xxvi. 37, 38. And he took with him Peter and the THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 43 his body b ; was crucified and died ; was buried, and remained under the power of death, yet saw no corruption 11 . On the third day he arose from the dead , with the same body in which he suffer- ed*^, with which also he ascended into heaven, and there sitteth at the right-hand of his Father", maketh intercession 11 ; and shall return to judge men and angels, at the end of the world'. two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very hea- vy. — Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrow- ful, even unto death. Luke xxii. 44. And being in an agony, he prayed more earnestly : and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. Mat. xxvii. 46, And about the ninth hour, Jesus cried with a loud voice, say- ing, Eli, Eli, Lama Sabacthani ? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me ? b Mat. xxvi. and xxvii. chapters. c Phil. ii. 8. He humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. d Acts ii. 24, 27. Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death : because it was not possible that he should De holden of it. Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Acts xiii. 37. But he, whom God raised again, saw no corruption. e 1 Cor. xv. 4. He was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the Scriptures. f John xx. 25, 27. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print oi" the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. — Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy fin- ger, and behold my hands ; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side : and be not faithless, but believing. s Mark xvi. 19. He was received up into heaven, and sat on the right-hand of God. h Rom. viii. 34. Who is even at the right-hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Heb. vii. 25. Where- fore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. » Rom. xiv. 9, 10. For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and liv- ing. — For we shall all stand before the judgment-seat of Christ. 44 THE CONFESSIOX OF FAITH. V. The Lord Jesus, by his perfect obedience and sacrifice of himself, which lie through the eternal Spirit once offered up unto God, hath fully satisfied the justice of his Father k 5 and purchased not only reconciliation, but an everlasting inheri- tance in the kingdom of heaven, for all those whom the Father hath given unto him 1 . VI. Although the work of redemption was not actually wrought by Christ till after his incarna- tion, yet the virtue, eflicacy, and benefits thereof, were communicated unto the elect, in all ages successively from the beginning of the world, in and by those promises, types, and sacrifices, where- in he was revealed, and signified to be the seed ot the woman which should bruise the serpenfs head, Acts i. 11. and x. 42. Mat. xiii. 40, 41, 42. As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire ; so shall it be in the end of this world. The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity ; — And shall cast them into a fur- nace of fire : there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. — Jude 6. And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains, under darkness, unto the judgment of the great day. See also 2 Pet. ii. 4» V. k Rom. v. 19. For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners ; so by the obedience of one, shall many be made righteous. Heb. ix. 14. How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God ? Rom. iii. 25, 26. Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to de- clare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God ; To declare, / say, at this time his righteousness : that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. Heb. x. 14. For by one of- fering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. See also Eph. v. 2. * Eph. i. 11, 14. In whom also we have obtained an inhe- THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 45 and the lamb slain from the beginning of the world, being yesterday and to-day the same and for ever" 1 . VII. Christ, in the work of mediation, aetelh according to both natures; by each nature doing that which is proper io itself": yet by reason oi the unity of the person, that which is proper to one nature, is sometimes in Scripture, attributed to the person denominated by the other nature . VIII. To all those for whom Christ hath pur- chased redemption, he doth certainly and effec- tually apply and communicate the same ; making ritance, being" predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will. — Which is the earnest of our inheritance, until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. John xvii. 2. As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. See also Heb. ix. 12. 15. VI. ,n Gal. iv. 4, 5. But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that w r ere under the law, that w r e might receive the adoption of sons. Gen. iii. 15. And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, arid between thy seed and her seed : it shall bruise thy head, and thou sha.lt bruise his heel. Rev. xiii. 8. And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. Heb. xiii. 8. Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to-day, and for ever. VII. n 1 Pet. iii. 18. For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, be ing put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit. See also Heb. ix. 14. ° Acts xx. 28. — Feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. John iii. 13. And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man, which is in heaven. 1 John iii. 16. Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us. VIII. p John vi. 37, 39. All that the Father jpveth me, shall come to me • and him that cometh to me, I will in no wise 46 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. intercession for them^, and revealing unto them, in and by the word, the mysteries of salvation 1 " ; effectually persuading them by his Spirit to be- lieve and obey ; and governing their hearts by his word and Spirit s ; overcoming all their enemiee by his almighty power and wisdom, in such man- ner and ways as are most consonant to his wonder- ful and unsearchable dispensation 1 . cast out. — And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. John x. 16. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold : them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice. * 1 John ii. 1. If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. Rom. viii. 34. — // is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right-hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. r John xv. 15. — For all things that J have heard of my Fa- ther, I have made known unto you. Eph. i. 9. According to his good pleasure, which he hath purposed in himself. John xvii. 6. 1 have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavestme out of the world : Thine they were, and thou ga- vest them me ; and they have kept thy word. 8 2 Cor. iv. 13. We having the same spirit of faith, accord- ing as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken ; we also believe, and therefore speak. Rom. viii. 9, 14. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now, if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. — For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. See also Rom. xv. 13, 19. and John xvii. 17. fc Psal. ex. 1. The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right-hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool. 1 Cor xv. 25, 26. For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. — The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. Mai. iv. 2, 3. But unto you that fear my name, shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings ; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall. — And ye shall tread down the wicked ; for they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet, in the day that I shall do this, saith the Lord of hosts. Col. ii. 15. And having spoiled principalities and THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 47 CHAPTER IX. Of Free Will. GOD hath endued the will of man with that natural liberty, that it is neither forced, nor by any absolute necessity of nature, determined to good or evil 1 . II. Man, in his state of innocency, had freedom and power to will and to do that which is good and well-pleasing to God b ; but yet mutably, so that he might fall from it c . III. Man, by his fall into a state of sin, hath wholly lost all ability of will to any spiritual good accompanying salvation d : so as a natural man be- powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. I. a James i. 14. But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Deut. xxx. 19. I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing : there- fore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live. See John v. 40. II. b Eccl. vii. 29. Lo, this only have 1 lound, that God hath made man upright ; but they have sought out many in- ventions. Gen. i. 26. And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. c Gen. ii. 16, 17. And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat : — But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it : for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shal surely die. Gen. iii. 6 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit, thereof, and did eat ; and gave a.so unto her husband wjth her, and he did eat. III. d Rom. v. 6. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. Rom. viii. 7. Be- cause the carnai mind is enm/ry against God ; for it is not sub- 5 48 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. •ng altogether averse from that which is good e , and dead in sin f , is not able, by his own strength, to convert himself, or to prepare himself thert> antos. IV. When God converts a sinner, and tran- slates him into the state of grace, he freeth him from his natural bondage under sin h , and by hi grace alone, enables him freely to will and to do that which is spiritually good 1 ; yet so as that, by reason of his remaining corruption, he doth not ject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. John xv. 5. For without me ye can do nothing. e Rom. iii. 10, 12. At it is written, There is none righte- ous, no, not one : — They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable ; there is none that doeth good, no, not one. f Eph. ii. 1, 5. And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins ; — even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ ; (by grace ye are saved.) Col. ii. 13. And you, being dead in your sins and the uncir- cumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses, s John vi. 44, 65. No man can come to me, except the Fa- ther, which hath sen ; me, draw him : — And he said, There- fore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. 1 Cor. ii. 14. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God : for they are foolishness unto him ; neither can he know them, be- cause they are spiritually discerned. See also Eph. ii. 2, 3, 4, 5 and Tit. iii. 3, 4, 5. IV. h Col. i. 13. Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son. John viii. 34, 36. Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin, is the servant of sin. — If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. 1 Phil. ii. 13. For it is God which worketh in you both tc will and to do of his good pleasure. Rom. vi. 18, 22. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righte- ousness. — But now being: made free from sin, and become ser- THF CONFESSION OF FAITH. 49 perfectly, nor only, will that which is good, but doth also will that which is c\il k . V. The will of man is made perfectly and im- mutably free to good alone, in the state of glory only 1 . CHAPTER X. Of Effectual Calling. .ALL those whom God hath predestinated unto life, and those only, he is pleased, in his appointed and accepted time, effectually to call a , by his word and Spirit 5 , out of that state of sin and death, in vants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. k Gal. v. 17. For the flesh lusteth against the spirit, and the spirit against the flesh : and these are contrary the one to the other ; so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. Rom. vii. 15. For that which I do, I allow not: for what I would, that do I not ; but what I hate, that do I. V. l Eph. iv. 13- Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ. Jude 24. Now unto him that is able to keep you from fall- ing, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory, with exceeding joy. I. a Rom. viii. 30. Moreover, whom he did predestinate, them he also called; and whom he called, them he also justi- fied; and whom he justified, them he also glorified. Rom. xi. 7. What then ? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for ; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blind- ed. Eph. i. 10. That in the dispensation of the fulness of times, he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth ; even him. b 2 Thess. ii. 13, 14. — God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation, through sanctification of the Spirit, and be- lief of the truth : — Whereunto he called you by our Gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Cor. 50 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. which they are by nature, to grace and salvation by Jesus Christ ; enlightening their minds spiritu- ally and savingly, to understand the things of God' 1 , taking away their heart of stone, and giving unto them a heart of flesh e ; renewing their wills, and by his almighty power determining them to that which is good f ; and effectually drawing them to iii. 3, 6. Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God ; not in tables of stone, but in fleshly tables of the heart. Who also hath made us able mi- nisters of the New Testament ; not of the letter, but of the spirit : for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life. c Rom. viii. 2. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus, hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 2 Tim. i. 9, 10. Who hath saved us, and called us with a holy calling", not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began ; but is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel. See also Eph. ii. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. d Acts xxvi. 18. To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and />om the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. 1 Cor. ii. 10, 12. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit, for the Spirit searcheth all tilings, yea, the deep things of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is of God ; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. e Ezek. xxxvi. 26. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you ; and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you a heart oi flesh. f Ezek. xi. 19. And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you. Deut xxx. 6. And the Lord thy G*>d will circumcise thy heart, and the heart of thy seed, to love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, that thou mayest live. See also Ezek. xxxvi. 27 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 51 Jesufl Christ*; ye\ so us they come most freely, being made willing by his grace 1 *. II. This effectual call is of God's free and spe- cial grace alone, not from any thing at all foreseen in man' 1 ; who is altogether passive therein, until, being quickened and renewed by the Holy Spirit*, he is thereby enabled to answer this call, and to embrace the grace offered and conveyed in it 1 . * John vi. 44, 4/3. No man can come to me, except the Father, which hath sent mc, draw him. — Every man there- fore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto mc. L Cant. i. 4. Draw me, we will run after thee. Psal. ex. 3. Thy people shall he willing in the day of thy power, in the beauties of holiness from the womb of the morning : thou hast the dew of thy youth. John vi. 37. II. ■ 2 Tim. i. 9. Who hath saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began. Tit. iii. 4, 5. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but ac- cording to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regene- ration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. Rom. ix. 11. For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that caileth. See also Eph. ii. 4, 5, 8, 9. k 1 Cor. ii. 14. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God : for they are foolishness unto him ; neither can he know them, because they are spiritually dis- cerned. R.om. viii. n Because the carnal mind is enmity against God ; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. Eph. ii. 5. Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ; (by grace ye are saved.) 1 John vi. 37. All that the Father giveth me, shall come to me : and him that cometh to me, I will in no wise cast out. Ezek. xxxvi. 27. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judg- ments, and do them. John v. 25. Verily, verily, I say unto 5* 52 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. III. Elect infants, dying in infancy, are regene- rated and saved by Christ through the Spirit 1 *, who worketh when, and where, and how he pleaseth n . So also are all other elect persons, who are inca- pable of being outwardly called by the ministry of the word . IV. Others not elected, although they may be called by the ministry of the word , and may have some common operations of the Spirit"-, yet they never truly come to Christ, and therefore cannot be saved 1, : much less can men, not professing the you, The hour is coming", and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God ; and they that hear shall live. John vi. 37. Ezek. xxxvi. 27. III. m Luke xviii. 15, 16. And they brought unto him also in- fants, that he would touch them : but when his disciples saw it, they rebuked them : but Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. Acts ii. 38, 39. Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. n John iii. 8. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goelh ; so is every one that is born of the Spirit. ° Acts iv. 12. Neither is there salvation in any other : for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. IV. p Mat. xxii. 14. For many are called, but few art chosen. q Mat. xiii. 20, 21. But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it : — Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while ; for when tribulation or persecution ariseth be- cause of the word, by and by he is offended. r John vi. 64, 65, 66. But there are some of you that be- lieve not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 53 Christian religion, be saved in any other way what- loever, be they never so diligent to frame then lives according to the light of nature, and the law of that religion they do profess 8 ; and to assert and maintain that they may is very pernicious, and to be detested 1 . CHAPTER XL Of Justification. TlIOSE whom God effectually calleth, he also freely justifieth' ; not by infusing righteousness in- to them, but by pardoning their sins, and by ac- counting and accepting their persons as righteous : not for any thing wrought in them, or done by that believed not, and who should betray him. — And he said. Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, ex- cept it were given unto him of my Father. From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. John viii. 24. I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins ; for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins. * Acts iv. 12. Neither is there salvation in any other; for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. John xiv. 6. Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life : no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. John xvii. 3. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee, the only true God and Je.-u? Christ, whom thou hast sent. 1 2 John 10. 11. If there come any unto you, and bring not this dor trine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed : for he that biddeth him God speed, is partaker of his evil deeds. Gal. i. 8. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other Gospel unto you, than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. I. a Rom. viii. 30. Whom he called, them he also justified. Rom. iii. 24. Being justified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. 54 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. them, but for Christ's sake alone : not by imput- ing faith itself, the act of believing, or any other evangelical obedience to them, as their righteous- ness ; but by imputing the obedience and satis- faction of Christ unto them b , they receiving and resting on him and his righteousness by faith ; which faith they have not of themselves, it is the gift of God c . II. Faith, thus receiving and resting on Christ and his righteousness, is the alone instrument of justification *, d yet is not alone in the person justi- b Rom. iv. 5, 6, 7, 8. But to him that worketh not, but be- lieve th on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. — Even as David also describeth the blessed- ness of the man unto whom God imputeth righteousness with- out works, saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are for- given, and whose sins are covered. — Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. 2 Cor. v. 19, 21. To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto him- self, not imputing their trespasses unto them ; and hath com- mitted unto us the word of reconciliation. — For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin ; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. Rom. iii. 22, 24, 25. 27, 28 Tit. iii. 5, 7. Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost ; — That be- ing justified by his grace, we should be made heirs, according to the hope of eternal life. Eph. i. 7. In whom we have re- demption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according f o the riches of his grace. Jer. xxiii. 6. In his days Judab shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely ; and this is his name whereby he shall be called, The Lord our Righ- teousness. See also 1 Cor. i. 30, 31. and Rom. v. 17, 18, 19. c Phil. iii. 9. And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith* Acts xiii. 38, 39. Eph. ii. 8. For by grace are ye saved through faith ; and that not of yourselves : it is the gift of God. II. d John i. 12. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe THE CONCESSION OF FAITH. b!) fied, out is erter accompanied with all other saving graces, and is no dead faith ; bat workelh by love". III. Christ, by his obedience and death, did fully discharge the debt of all those that are thus justified, and did make a proper, real, and full sa- tisfaction to his Father's justice in their behalf f . Vet, in as much as he was given by the Father for thems, and his obedience and satisfaction accept- ed in their stead 11 , and both freely, not for any on his name. Rom. iii. 23. Therefore we conclude, that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. Rom. v. 1. Therefore, being; justified by faith, we have peace with God, through our Lord Jesus Christ. e Jam. ii. 17, 22, 26. Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. — Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect ? — For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. Gal. v. 6. For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision ; but faith which worketh by Jove. III. f Rom. v. 8, 9, 10, 19. But God commendeth his love towards us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. — Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enfemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son ; much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. 1 Tim. ii. 6. Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. Heb. x. 10, 14. By the which will we are sanctified, through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. See also Dan. ix. 24, 26. and Isa. liii. 4, 5, 6, 10, 11, 12. s Rom. viii. 32. He that spared not his own Son, but deli- vered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? h 2 Cor. v. 21. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who Knew no sin ; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. Mat. iii. 17. And, lo, a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Eph. v. 56 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. thing in them, their justification is only of free grace 1 ; that both the exact justice, and rich grace of God, might be glorified in the justification oi sinners*. IV. God did, from all eternity, decree to justify all the elect 1 ; and Christ did, in the fulness oi time, die for their sins, and rise again for their jus- tification 111 : nevertheless they are not justified, un- til the Holy Spirit doth, in due time, actually ap- ply Christ unto them . 2. And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God, for a sweet-smelling savour. 1 Rom. hi. 24. Being justified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. Eph. i. 7. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace. k Rom. iii. 26. To declare, / say, at this time his righteous- ness ; that he might be just, and the justifier of him which be- lie veth in Jesus. Eph. ii. 7. That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness towards us through Christ Jesus. IV. 1 Gal. iii. 8. And the Scripture, foreseeing that God * r ould justify the heathen through faith, preached before tfce Gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be bles- sed. 1 Pet. i. 2, 19, 20. Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ. — But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without ble- mish and without spot : Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you. See Rom. viii. 30. m Gal. iv. 4. But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law. 1 Tim. ii. 6. Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testi- fied in due time. Rom. iv. 25. Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification. n Col. i. 21, 22. And you, that were sometime alienated, and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled, in the body of his flesh through death, to preseui THE CONFESC*Oh OF FAITH, M V. God cloth continue to forgive the sins of those that are justified : and although (hey can never fall from tne state of justification , vet they may by their sins fall under God's fatherly dis- pleasure, and not have the light of his countenance restored unto them, until they humble themselves, confess their sins, beg pardon, and renew their faith and repentance' 1 . VI. The justification of believers under the Old Testament was, in all these respects, one and the same with the justification of believers under the New Testament 1 ". vou holy, and unblameable, and unreprovable in his sight. See also Gal. ii. 16. and Tit. iii. 4, 5, 6, 7. V. ° Mat. vi. 12. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 1 John i. 9. If we confer our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all un- righteousness. 1 John ii. 1. If any man sin, we have an ad- vocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. P Luke xxii. 32. But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not ; aud when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren- John x. 28. And I give unto them eternal life ; and they shall never perish, neither shall any pluck them out of my hand. — IJeb. x. 14. For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. ut the principal acts of saving faith, are, accepting, receiving, and resting upon Christ alone for justification, sanctifi- cation, and eternal lii'e, by virtue of the covenant of grace 1 . III. This faith is different in degrees, weak or strong k ; may be often and many ways assailed and but (as it is in truth) the word of God, which effectually WOrketh also in you that believe. 1 John v. 10. He that be- lieveth on the Son of God, hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God, hath made him a liar, because he believ- eth not the record that God gave of his Son. Acts xxiv. 14. — believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets. f Rom. xvi. 26. But now is made manifest, and by the Scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedi- ence of faith. & Isa. lxvi. 2. — To this ma?i will I look, even to him thai is poor, and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word. h Heb. xi. 13. These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were per- suaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. 1 Tim. iv. 8. — But godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. 1 John i. 12. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on iiis name. Acts xvi. 31. And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. Gal. ii. 20. I am crucified with Christ ; nevertheless, I live ; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me : and the life which 1 now live in the flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. Acts xv. 11. But we believe that, through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, we shall bo saved, even as they. III. k Heb. v. 13, 14. For everyone thatuseth milk is un- •kdful in the word of righteousness; for he is a babe. But sti-eng meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those 6* 64 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. weakened, but gets the victory 1 ; growing up in many to the attainment of a full assurance through Christ™, who is both the author and finisher of our faith*. CHAPTER XV. Of Repentance unto Life. llEPENTANCE unto life is an evangelical grace 3 , the doctrine whereof is to be preached by every who by reason of use have their senses exercised to dis- cern both good and evil. Rom. iv. 19, 20. And being; not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about a hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sarah's womb. He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God. Mat, vi. 30. Shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Matt. viii. 10. When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily 1 say unto you, 1 have not found go great faith, no, not in Israel. 1 Luke xxii. 31, 32. And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, be- hold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you a* wheat : But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. Eph. vi. 16. Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 1 John v. 4, 5. For whatsoever is born of God, overcometh the world : and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God ? m Heb. vi. 11, 12. And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence, to the full assurance of hope unto the end : That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience intferit the promises. Heb. x. 22. Let us draw near with a true heart, in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. n Heb. xii. 2. Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. I. a Acts xi. 18. When they heard these things, they held theri peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gen tiles granted repentance unto life. See also Zech. xii. 10. THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. G5 minister of the Gospel, as well as that of faith in Christ*. II. By it a sinner, out of the sight and sense, not only of the danger, but also of the filthiness and odiousness of his sins, as contrary to the holy nature and righteous law of God, and upon the apprehension of his mercy in Christ to such as are penitent, so grieves for, and hates his sins, as to turn from them all unto God c , purposing and en- b Luke xxiv. 47. And that repentance and remission of sTns should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. Mark i. 15. And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand : repent ye, and believe the Gospel. Acts xx. 21. Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. II. c Ezek. xviii. 30, 31. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions ; so iniquity shall not be your ruin. Cast away from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have transgressed ; and make you a new heart and a new spirit : for why will ye die, O house of Israel ? Ezek. xxxvi. 31. Then shall ye remember your own evil ways, and your doings that were not good, and shall loathe yourselves in your own sight, for your iniquities, and lor your abominations. Psalm li. 4. Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight ; that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest. Jer. xxxi. 18, 19. I have surely heard Ephraim bemoaning himself thus; Thou hast chas- tised me, and 1 was chastised, as a bullock unaccustomed to the yoke : turn thou me, and I shall be turned ; for thou art the Lord my God. Surely after that I was turned, I repented ; and after that 1 was instructed, I smote upon my thigh: I was ashamed, yea, even confounded, because I did bear the reproach of my youth. 2 Cor. vii. 11. For, behold, this self-same thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge ! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter. See also Joel ii. 12, 13. Amos v. 15. and Psalm cxix. 123. 66 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. deavounng to walk with him, in all the ways of his commandments d . III. Although repentance be not to be rested in as any satisfaction for sin, or any cause of the par- don thereof e , which is the act of God's free grace in Christ f ; yet is it of such necessity to all sin- ners, that none may expect pardon without it g . IV. As there is no sin so small but it deserves damnation 11 ; so there is no sin so great, that it can bring damnation upon those who truly repent 1 . d Psal. cxix. 6, 59, 106. Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments. — I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto thy testimonies. — I have sworn, and I will perform it, that I will keep thy righteous judgments. Luke i. 6. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. See also 2 Kings xxiii. 25. III. e Ezek. xxxvi. 31, 32. Then shall ye remember your own evil ways, and your doings that were not good, and shall loathe yourselves in your own sight, for your iniquities, and for your abominations. Not for your sakes do I this, saith the Lord God, be it known unto you : be ashamed and confounded for your own ways, O house of Israel. Ezek. xvi. 63. That thou mayest remember, and be confounded, and never open thy mouth any more because of thy shame, when I am pacified toward thee for all that thou hast done, saith the Lord God. f Hos. xiv. 2, 4. Take with you words, and turn to the Lord : say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously : so will we render the calves of our lips. — I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely : for mine anger is turned away from him. Rom. iii. 24. Being justified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. £ph. i. 7. e Luke xiii. 3, 5. I tell you nay : but, except ye i epent, ye shall all likewise perish. See also Acts xvii. 30. IV. h Rom. vi. 23. For the wages of sin is death. Mat. xii. 36. But I say unto you, that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. 1 Isa. lv. 7. Let the wicked forsake his waj and the un- righteous man his thoughts : and let him return unto th# THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 01 V. Mi .n ought not to content themselves with a general repentance, but it is every man's duty to endeavour to repent of his particular sins, parti- cularly^ VI. As every man is bound to make private confession of his sins to God, praying for the par- don thereof 1 ; upon which, and the forsaking of them, he shall find mercy" 1 : so he that scandali- zeth his brother, or the church of Christ, ought to be willing, by a private or public confession and sorrow for his sin, to declare his repentance to Lord, and he will have mercy upon him ; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. Rom. viii. 1. There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. Isa. i. 18. Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord : though v.ur sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow ; though trey be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. V. k Psal. xix. 13. Keep back thy servant also from presump- tuous sins ; let them not have dominion over me : then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgres- sion. Luke xix. 8. And Zaccheus stood, and said unto the Lord, Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor ; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusa- tion, I restore htm four-fold. 1 Tim. i. 13, 15. Who was be- fore a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I ob- tained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. — This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners ; of whom I am chief. VI. ' Psal. xxxii. 5, 6. I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my sessions unto the Lord ; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah. For this shall every one that is godly, pray unto thee in a time when thou mayest be found : surely in the floods of great waters they shall not come nigh unto him. See also Psal. li. 4, 5, 7, 9, 14. m Prov. xxviii. 13. He that covereth his sins shall not pros- per: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy. 1 John i. 9. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and jusl \fi forgive us our sins. 68 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. those that are offended" ; who are thereupon to be reconciled to him, and in love to receive him°. CHAPTER XVI. Of Good Works. vjOOD works are only such as God hath com- manded in his holy word 3 , and not such as with- out the warrant thereof, are devised by men out of blind zeal, or upon any pretence of good inten- tion\ n James v. 16. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Luke xvii. 3, 4. Take heed to yourselves : if thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him ; and if he repent, forgive him. And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him. Josh. vii. 19. And Joshua said unto Achan, My son, give, pray thee, glory to the Lord God of Israel, and make confes sion unto him ; and tell me now what thou hast done ; hide t not from me. Psal. li. throughout. G 2 Cor. ii. 8. Wherefore I beseech you, that ye would con- firm your love toward him. See Gal. vi. 1, 2. I. a Micah vi. 8. He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good ; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God ? Rom. xii. 2. And be not conformed to this world ; but be ye trans- formed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what it that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God. Heb. xiii. 21. Make you perfect in every good work to do his will. b Mat. xv. 9. But in vain they do worship me, teaching/or doctrines the commandments of men. Isa. xxix. 13. Where- fore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honom me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precepts of men. John xvi. 2. They shall put you out of the synagogues : yea, the time cometh, that whoso- ever killeth you, will think that he doeth God ser\ ice. See 1 Sam. xv. 21, 22, 23. THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 69 II. These good works, done in obedience to God's commandments, are the fruits and eviden- o( a true and lively faith c : and by them be- lievers manifest their thankfulness* 1 , strengthen their assurance , edify their brethren', adorn the profession of the Gospel", stop the mouths of the adversaries' 1 , and glorify God', whose workman- II. c James ii. 18, 22. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works : shew me thy faith without thy works, and I wfll shew thee my faith by my works.— Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect ? t! PsaL cxvi. 12, 13. What shall I render unto the Lord for all his benefits toward me ? I will take the cup of salvation, *nd call upon the name of the Lord. 1 Pet. ii. 9. But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a pecu- liar people ; that ye should shew forth the praises of him w r ho hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light. e 1 John ii. 3, 5. And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. — Rut whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected : hereby know we that we are in him. 2 Pet. i. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10. f 2 Cor. ix. 2. For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago ; and your zeal hath provoked very many. Mat. v. 16. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. s Tit. ii. 5. To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. 1 Tim. vi. 1. Let as many servants as are un- der the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed. See also Tit. ii. 9, 10, 11, 12. h 1 Pet. ii. 15. For so is the will of God, that with well-do- ing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men. 1 1 Pet. ii. 12. Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles; that, whereas they speak against you as evil doers, they may, by your good works which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation. Phil. i. 11. Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God. John xv. 8. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit. 70 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. ship they are, created in Christ Jesus thereunto k , that, having their fruit unto holiness, they may have the end, eternal life 1 . III. Their ability to do good works is not at all of themselves, but wholly from the Spirit of Christ™. And that they may be enabled thereunto, besides the graces they have already received, there is re- quired an actual influence of the same Holy Spirit to work in them to will and to do of his good plea- sure" 5 yet are they not hereupon to grow negli- gent, as if they were not bound to perform any duty unless upon a special motion of the Spirit ; but they ought to be diligent in stirring up the grace of God that is in them . k Eph. ii. 10. For we are his workmanship, created hi Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. 1 Rom. vi. 22. But now, being made free from sin, and be come servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. III. m John xv. 5, 6. I am the vine, ye are the branches : he that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit ; for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered ; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire. See Ezek. xxxvi. 26, 27. n Phil. ii. 13. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Phil iv. 13. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. 2 Cor. iii. 5. Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves ; but our sufficiency is of God. Phil. ii. 12. Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always ©beyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. Heb. vi. 11, 12. And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence, to the full assurance of hope unto the end ; That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. Isa. lxiv. 7. And there is none that calleth upon thy name, that stirreth up him THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 71 IV. TheVj who in their obedience, attain to the greatest height which is possible in this life, are so tar from being able to supererogate and to do more than Cod requires, that they fall short of much, which in duty they are hound to do p . f V. We cannot, by our best works, merit pardon of sin, or eternal life, at the hand of God, by rea- son of the great disproportion that is between them and the glory to come, and the infinite dis- tance that is between us and God, whom by them we can neither profit, nor satisfy for the debt of our former sins q : but when we have done all we can, we have done but our duty, and are unpro- fitable servants 1 " ; and because as they are good, self to take hold of thee : for thou hast hid thy face from us, and hast consumed us, because of our iniquities. See also 2 Pet. i. 3, 5, 10, 11. and 2 Tim. i. 6. and Acts xxvi. 6, 7. toge- ther with Jude 20 and 21 verses. IV. F Luke xvii. 10. So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants : we have done that which was our duty to do. Job ix. 2, 3. But how should man be j ust with God . ? — If he will contend with him, he cannot answer him one of a thou- sand. Gal. v. 17. For the flesh lusteth against the spirit, and the spirit against the flesh : and these are contrary the one to the other ; so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. V. q Rom. iii. 20. Therefore by the deeds of the law, there shall no flesh be justified in his sight : for by the law is the knowledge of sin. Rom. iv. 2, 4, 6. For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory, but not before God. — Now to him that worketh, is the reward not reckoned of gTace, but of debt. Even as David also describeth the bles- sedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works. Eph. ii. 8, 9. For by grace are ye saved through faith ; and that not of yourselves : it is the gift of God : Not of works, lest any man should boast. Psal. xvi. 2. O 7ny said, thou hast said unto the Lord, Thou art my Lord : my goodness extendeth not to thee. See also Tit. iii. 5, 6, 7. Rom viii. 18, 22, 23. and Job xxxv. 7, 8. r Luke xvii 10. See letter p in this chanter. 7 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. they proceed from his Spirit 5 ; and, as they are wrought by us, they are defiled and mixed with so much weakness and imperfection, that they cannot endure the severity of God's judgments VI. Yet notwithstanding, the persons of believ- ers being accepted through Christ, their good works also are accepted in him v , not as though they were in this life wholly unblameable and un- reprovable in God's sight w ; but that he, looking upon them in his Son, is pleased to accept and re- ward that which is sincere, although accompanied with many weaknesses and imperfections 3 . 9 Gal. v. 22, 23. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance. 1 Isai. lxiv. 6. But we are all as an unclean thing:, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags ; and we all do fade as a leaf ; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. Psal. cxliii. 2. And enter not into judgment with thy servant; for in thy sight shall no man living be justified. Psal. cxxx. 3. If thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand ? See also Gal. v. 17. and Rom. vii. 15, 18. VI. v Eph. i. 6. To the praise of the glory of his" grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the Beloved. 1 Pet. ii. 5. Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. Gen. iv. 4. And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock, and of the fat thereof. And the Lord had respect unto Abel, and to his offering. With Heb. xi. 4. w Job ix. 20 If I justify myself, mine own mouth shall con- demn me : if I say, I am perfect, it shall also prove me per- verse. Psal. clxiii. 2. x 2 Cor. viii. 12. For if there be first a willing mind, it is ac cepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. Heb. vi. 10. For God is not unrighteous, to for- get your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed to- ward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister. Mat. xxv. 21, 23. His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant ; thou hast been faithful THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 73 VII. Works done by unregenerate men, al- though, for the matter of them, they may be thingi which God commands, and of good use both to themselves and others y ; yet because they pro- ceed not from a heart purified by faith*'; nor are done in a right manner, according to the word" ; nor to a right end, the glory of God b ; they are therefore sinful, and cannot please God, or make jver'a. few things, I will make thee ruler over many things : enter thou into the joy of thy lord. VII. y 2 Kings x. 30, 31. And the Lord said unto Jehu, Because thou hast done well in executing that which is right in mine eyes, and hast done unto the house of Ahab according to all that was in my heart, thy children of the fourth generation shall sit on the throne of Israel. But Jehu took no heed to walk in the law of the Lord God of Israel with all his heart ; for he departed not from the sins of Jeroboam, which made Is- rael to sin. Phil. i. 15, 16, 18. Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife, and some also of good will : the one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds. — What then ? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached ; and I therein do rejoice. z Heb. xi. 4, 6. By faith Abel offered unto God a more ex- cellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts; and by it, he be- ing dead, yet speaketh.— But without faith it is impossible to please him : for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and thai he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. See Gen. iv. 3, 4, 5. • 1 Cor. xiii. 3. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have ndt charity, it profiteth me nothing. Isai. i. 12. When ye come to appear before me, who hath required this at your hand, to tread my courts ? b Mat. vi. 2, 5, 16. Therefore, when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues, and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. — And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are : for they love to pray standing in the synagogues, and in the corners 74 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. a man meet to receive grace from God c . And yet their neglect of them is more sinful, and dis- pleasing unto God J . CHAPTER XVII. Of the Perseverance of the Saints. JL HEY whom God hath accepted in his Beloved, effectually called and sanctified, by his Spirit,' can neither totally nor finally fall away from the state of grace ; but shall certainly persevere therein to the'end, and be eternally saved a . of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. — Moreover, when ye fast, be not as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance ; for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily J say unto you, They have their reward. c Hag. ii. 14. So is this people, and so is this nation before me, saith the Lord ; and so is every work of their hands ; and that which they offer there is unclean. Tit. i. 15. Unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure ; but even their mind and conscience is denied. Amos v. 21, 22. I hate, I despise your feast-days, and I will not smell in your so- lemn assemblies. Though ye offer me burnt-offerings, and your meat-offerings, I will not accept them ; neither will 1 re- gard the peace-offerings of your fat beasts. See also Hos. i. 4. Rom. ix. 16. and Tit. iii. 5. d Psal. xiv. 4. Have all the workers of iniquity no know- ledge ? who eat up my people as they eat bread, and call not upon the Lord. Psal. xxxvi. 3. The words of his mouth are iniquity and deceit : he hath left off to be wise, and to do good. Job xxi. 14. Therefore they say unto God, Depart from us; for we desire not the knowledge of thy ways. See also Matt xxv. 41, 42, 43, 45. and Mat. xxiii. 23. I. a Phil. i. 6. Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you, will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. John x. 28, 29. And I give untc them eternal life ; and they shall never perish, neither shall any pluck them out of my hand. My Father which gave ihem THE COXFESSIOX OF FAITH. 75 II. This perteverance of the saints depends, not upon their own free-will, hut upon the immu- tability of the decree of election, flowing from the free and unchangeable love of God the Father', upon the eilicacj of the merit and intercession of Jesus Christ ; the abiding of the Spirit and of the seed of God within them d ; and the nature of the me, is greater than all : and none is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. See also 1 John iii. 9. 1 Pet. i. 5, 9. and Job xvii. 9. II. b 2 Tim. ii. 19. Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The' Lord knoweth them that are his. Jer. xxxi. 3. The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying. Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love ; therefore with loving kindness have I drawn thee. c Heb. x. 10, 14. By the which will we are sanctified, through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for a i lL — For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them th?.t are sanctified. John xvii. 11, 24. And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are. — Father, I will that they also whom thou hast given me be with me where I am ; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me : for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. Heb. \ii. 25. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make in- tercession for them. Heb. ix. 12, 13, 14, 15. Rom. viii. 33. to the end. Luke xxii. 32. d John xiv. 16, 17. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever ; even the Spirit of truth ; whom the world cannot re- ceive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him : but ye know him ; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. John ii. 27. But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you ; and ye need not that any man teach you : but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. 1 John iii. 9. Whosoever is born of God doth not com- mit sin ; for hi? seed remaineth in him ; and he cannot sin, be- cause he is born of God. 7* 76 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. covenant of grace e : from all which ariseth also the certainty and infallibility thereof f . III. Nevertheless they may, through the temp- tations of Satan and of the world, the prevalency of corruption remaining in them, and the neglect of the means of their preservation, fall into grie vous sins g ; and for a time continue therein 11 : whereby they incur God's displeasure 1 , and grieve his Holy Spirit k ; come to be deprived of some e Jer. xxxii. 40. And I will make an everlasting covenant with them, that I will not turn away from them, to do them good ; but 1 will put my fear in their hearts, that they shall not depart from me. With Heb. viii. 10, 11, 12. f 2 Thess. iii. 3. But the Lord is faithful, who shall estab- lish you, and keep you from evil. 1 John ii. 19. They went out from us, but they were not of us ; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us : but they went eut, that they might be made manifest, that they were not all of us. John x. 28. They shall never perish. 1 Thess. v. 23, 24. III. s Mat xxvi. 70, 72, 74. But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest. — And again he denied with an oath, I do not know the man. — Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man. h 2 Sam. xii. 9, 13. Wherefore hast thou despised the com- mandment of the Lord, to do evil in his sight? Thou hast killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword, and hast taken his wife to be thy wife, and hast slain him with the sword of the children of Ammon. — And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the Lord. And Nathan said unto David, The Lord also hath put away thy sin ; thou shalt not die. 1 Isa. lxiv. 7, 9. — For thou hast hid thy face from us, and hast consumed us, because of our iniquities. — Be not wroth very sore, O Lord, neither remember iniquity for ever : behold, see, we beseech thee, we are all thy people. 2 Sam. xi. 27. And when the mourning was past, David sent and fetched her Jo his house, and she became his wife, and bare him a son. But the thing that David had done displeased the Lord. k Eph. iv. 30. And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God. where- by ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. THE CONFESSION Ot FAITH. 77 measure of their graces and comforts 1 ; have their hearts hardened" 1 , and their consciences wound- ed ; hurt and scandalize others , and hring tem- poral judgments upon themselvesP. CHAPTER XVIII. Of the Assurance of Grace and Salvation. ALTHOUGH hypocrites, and other unregene- rate men, may vainly deceive themselves with false hopes and carnal presumptions of being in the fa- vour of God and estate of salvation a ; which hope 1 Psal. li. 8, 10, 12. Make me to hear joy and gladness : Uiat the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice. — Create in me a clean heart, O God ; and renew a right spirit within me. — Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation ; and uphold me with tliy fre% spirit. Rev. ii. 4. Nevertheless, I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. m Mark vi. 52. For they considered not the miracle of the loaves : for their heart was hardened. Mark xvi. 14. After- ward he appeared unto the eleven, as they sat at meat, and up- braided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, be- cause they believed not them which had seen him, after he wa3 risen- Psalm xcv. 8. n Psal. xxxii. 3, 4. When I kept silence, my bones waxed old, through my roaring all the day long : for day and night thy hand was heavy upon me : my moisture is turned into the drought of summer. Psal. li. 8. Make me to hear joy and gladness ; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice. 2 Sam. xii. 14. Howbeit, because by this deed thou hast given °reat occasion to the enemies of the Lord to blaspheme, the child also that is born unto thee, shall surely die. P Psal. lxxxix. 31, 32. If they break my statutes, and keep not my commandments ■ then will I visit their transgres- sion with the rod, and their iniquity with stripes. 1 Cor. xi. 32. But when we are judged we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world. I. a Job viii. 14. Whose hope shall be cut off, and whose trust shall be a spider's web. Deut. xxix. 19. I shall have f 78 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH, of theirs shall perish b : yet such as truly believe in the Lord Jesus, and love him in sincerity, en- deavouring to walk in all good conscience before him, may in this life be certainly assured that they are in a state of grace c , and may rejoice in the hope of the glory of God; which hope shall ne- ver make them ashamed d . II. This certainty is not a bare conjectural and probable persuasion, grounded upon a fallible hope e ; but an infallible assurance of faith, found- ed upon the divine truth of the promises of salva- tion^ the inward evidence of those graces unto peace, though I walk in the imagination of my heart, to add drunkenness to thirst. John viii. 41. Ye do the deeds of your father. Then said they to him, We be not born of fornication, we have one Father, even God. b Mat. vii. 22, 23. Many will say to me in tha^day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name ? and in thy name have cast out devils ? and in thy name done many wonderful works ? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you ; depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Job viii. 13. c 1 John ii. 3. And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. 2 John v. 13. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son ol God, that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. 1 John iii. 14, 18, 19, 21, 24. d Rom. v. 2, 5. By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory oi God. — And hope maketh not ashamed ; because the love oi God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. II. e Heb. vi. 11, 19. And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end. — Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which entereth into that within the vail. f Heb. vi. 17, 18. Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his coun- sel, confirmed it by an oath : That by two immutable things, in THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 79 which these promises are made*, the testimony of the Spirit of adoption witnessing with our spirits that we are the children of God" : which Spirit is tlie earnest of our inheritance, whereby we are sealed to the day of redemption'. III. This infallible assurance doth not so belong to the essence of faith, but that a true believer may wait long, and conflict with many difficulties before he be partaker of it k : Yet, being enabled which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us. s 2 Pet. i. 4, 5, 10, 11. Whereby are given unto us exceed- ing great and precious promises ; that by these ye might be par- takers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And besides this, giving all dili- gence, add to your faith, virtue ; and to virtue, knowledge. — Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure ; for if ye do these things, ye shall ne- ver fall. — For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abun- dantly, into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.. 1 John iii. 14. We know that we have passed from death unto life ; because we love the brethren. 1 John ii. 3. and 2 Cor. i. 12. h Horn. viii. 15, 16. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear ; but ye have received the Spirit of adop- tion, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself bear- etli witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God. » Eph. i. 13, 14. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the Gospel of your salvation : in whom also, after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance, until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. 2 Cor. i. 21, 22. Now he which establish- eth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God ; wha hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts. III. k Isa. 1. 10. Who is among you that feareth the Lord, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, that walkethi/i darkness, and hath no light? Let him trust in the name of the Lord, anr 1 stay upon his God. 1 John v. 13. These things have 1 writ 80 THE COXFESSIOX OF FAITH. by the Spirit to know the things which are freely given him of God, he may, without extraordinary revelation, in the right use of ordinary means, at- tain thereunto 1 . And therefore it is the duty of every one, to give all diligence to make his calling and election sure m ; that thereby his heart may be enlarged in peace and joy in the Holy Ghost, in love and thankfulness to God, and in strength and cheerfulness in the duties of obedience, the pro- per fruits of this assurance 11 : So far is it from in- clining men to looseness . ten unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God, that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may be- lieve on the name of the Son of God. See Psalm lxxxviii. throughout, and lxxvii. to the 12th verse. 1 1 Cor. ii. 12. Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is of God ; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 1 John iv. 13. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. Heb. vi. 11, 12. And we de- sire that every one of you do shew the same diligence, to the full assurance of hope unto the end. That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. Eph. iii. 17, 18, 19. m 2 Pet. i. 10. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give dili- gence to make your calling and election sure ; for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall. n Rom. v. 1, 2, 5. Therefore, being justified by faith, we have peace with God, through our Lord Jesus Christ : By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.— -And hope oiaketh not ashamed ; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. Rom. xiv. 17. For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink ; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. Rom. xv. 13. Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. Psalm cxix. 32. 1 will run the way of thy commandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart. Psalm iv. 6, 7. Eph. i. 3, 4. Rom. vi. 1, 2. What shall we say then? shall we continue THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 81 IV. True believers may have the assurance of (heir salvation clivers wa\ B shaken, diminished, and intermitted; as, bv negligence in preserving of it, by falling into some special sin, which woundeth the conscience, and grieveth the Spirit; by some sudden or vehement temptation ; by God ? s with- drawing the light of his countenance, and suffering even such as fear him to walk in darkness and to have no light : Yet are they never utterly destitute of that seed of God, and life of faith, that love of Christ and the brethren, that sincerity of heart and conscience of duty, out of which, by the operation of the Spirit, this assurance may in due time be in sin, that °:race may abound ? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Tit. ii. 11, 12, 14. For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath ap- peared to all men, teaching us, that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world. — Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. IV*. p Cant. v. 2, 3, 6. 1 sleep, but my heart waketh : U is the voice of my beloved that knocketh, saying, Open to me, my sister, my love, my dove, my undefiled : for my head is filled with dew, and my locks with the drops of the night. I have put off my coat ; how shall I put it on ? I have washed my feet ; how shall I defile them? — I opened to my beloved ; but my be- loved had withdrawn himself, and was gone : my soul failed when he spake : I sought him, but I could not find him ; I called him, but he gave me no answer. Psalm li. 8, 12, 14. Make me to hear joy and gladness ; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free Spirit. — Deliver me from blood- guiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation; and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness. Eph. iv. 30. And srrieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Compare the above with Psalm lxxvii. first ten verses, and Mat. xxvi. 69, TO, 71, 72. Psal. xxxi. 22. Psal. Uxxviii. throughout, and Isa. 1. 10. 82 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. revived**, and by the which, in the mean time, they are supported from utter despair 1 ". CHAPTER XIX. Of the Law of God. IrOD gave to Adam a law, as a covenant of works, by which he bound him and all his poste- rity to personal, entire, exact, and perpetual obe- dience ; promised life upon the fulfilling, and threatened death upon the breach of it ; and en- dued him with power and ability to keep it*. i 1 John iii. 9. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin ; for his seed remaineth in him ; and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. Luke xxii. 32. But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not. Job xiii. 15. Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him : but I will maintain mine own ways before him. Psalm lxxiii. 15. and li. 8, 12. with Isa. 1. 10. r Micah vii. 7, 8, 9. Therefore 1 will look unto the Lord ; I will wait for the God of my salvation : my God will hear me. Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy : when I fall, I shall arise ; when I sit in darkness, the Lord shall be a light unto me. I will bear the indignation of the Lord, because I have sinned against him, until he plead my cause, and execute judg- ment for me : he will bring me forth to the light, and I shall behold his righteousness. Isa. liv. 7, 8. I. a (jen. i. 26. And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. Gen. ii. 17. But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it : for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. Rom. ii. 14, 15. For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves ; which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing wit- ness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excu- sing one another. Rom. x. 5. For Moses describeth the righ- teousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them. Rom. v. 12, 19. Wherefore, as by one man sin entered in,to the world, and death by sin ; and so THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 03 II. This law, after his fall, continued to be a Serfoct rule of righteousness ; and, as such, was elivcred by God upon mount Sinai in ten com- nandments, and written in two tables 1 '; the four irst commandments containing our duty towards God, and the other six our duty to man'*. III. Beside this law, commonly called moral, God was pleased to give to the people of Israel, as a church under age, ceremonial laws, containing several typical ordinances, partly of worship, pre- figuring Christ, his graces, actions, sufferings, and benefits d ; and partly holding forth divers instruc- death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned. — For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners ; so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. See also Gal. iii. 10, 12. Eccl. vii. 29. and Job xxviii. 28. II. b James i. 25. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. James ii. 8, 10. If ye fulfil the royal law according to the Scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well. — For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. Rom. iii. 19. Now we know, that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law. Deut. v. 32. Ye shall observe to do therefore as the Lord your God hath commanded you : ye shall not turn aside to the right-hand or to the left : and chap. x. 4. And he wrote on the tables, according to the first writing, the ten commandments, which the Lord spake unto you in the mount, out of the midst of the fire in the day of the assembly : and the Lord gave them unto me. Exod. xxxiv. 1. and Rom. xiii. 8, 9. c Mat. xxii. 37, 38, 39, 40. Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great command-' tnent. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the taw and the prophets. Exod. xx. 3 to 18. III. d Heb. x. 1. For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with 8 S4 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. tions of moral duties e . All which ceremonial laws are now abrogated under the New Testament'. IV. To them also, as a body politic, he gave sundry judicial laws, which expired together with the state of that people, not obliging any other, now, further than the general equity thereof may require g . V. The moral law doth for ever bind all, as well justified persons as others, to the obedience thereof 11 ; and that not only in regard of the mat- those sacrifices, which they offered year by year continually, make the comers thereunto perfect. Gal. iv. 1, 2, 3, Now I say, that the heir, as Ions: as he is a child, diflereth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all ; but is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father. — Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the ele- ments of the world. Col. ii. 17. Which are a shadow of things to come : but the body is of Christ. Heb. 9th chap. e 1 Cor. v. 7. Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, a.s ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us. 2 Cor. vi. 17. Wherefore, come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing ; and I will receive you. f Col. ii. 14, 16, 17. Blotting out the hand- writing of ordi- nances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross. — Let no man there- fore judge you in meat, or in drink. — Which are a shadow of things to come : but the body is of Christ. Eph. ii. 15, 16. Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of com- mandments contained in ordinances ; tor to make in himself oi twain one new man, so making peace ; and that he might re- concile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby. IV. s See Exod. 21st chap, and 22d chap. 1st to the 29th rerse. Gen. xlix. 10. The sceptre shall not depart from Ju- dah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come : and unto him shall the gathering of the people be. Mat. v. 38, 39. Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth : but I say unto you, That ye resist not evil. 1 Cor. ix. 8, 9, 10. V h Ro m . xiii. 8. 9. See above in letter b . 1 John ii. 3, THE CONIESSIOfl OF FAITH. 85 ter contained in if. but also in respect of the au- thority of God the Creator who gave it 1 . Neither doth Christ in the Gospel any way dusolre, but much strengthen, this obligation 1 *, VI. Although true believers be not under the law as a covenant of works, to be thereby justified or condemned 1 : yet is it of great use to them, as well as to others ; in that, as a rule of life, inform- ing them of the will of God and their duty, it di- rects and binds them to walk accordingly™ ; dis- covering also the sinful pollutions of their nature, 4, 7. And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. — Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had from the beginning. Rom. iii. 31. and vi. 15. Do we then make void the law through faith ? God forbid : yea, we establish the law. What then ? shall we sin because we are not under the law, but un- der grace ? God forbid. » Jam. ii. 10, 11. See in letter b . k Matt. v. 18, 19. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till ail be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven : but whosoever shall do anu teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. James ii. 8. Rom. iii. 31. VI. I Rom. vi. 14. For sin shall not have dominion over you : for ye are not under the law, but under grace. Rom. viii. 1. There u therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. See also Gal. iv. 4, 5. and Acts xiii. 39. m Rom. vii. 12. 'Wherefore the law is holy; and the commandment holy, and just, and good. Psal. cx.vs. 5. O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes ! 1 Cor. vii. 19. Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but f he keeping of the commandments sd God, Gal. v. 14, 18, 19, 20 tl. Z2*£L 86 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. hearts, and lives" ; so as, examining themselves thereby, they may come to further conviction of, humiliation for, and hatred against sin ; together with a clearer sight of the need they have of Christ, and the perfection of his obedience . It is likewise of use to the regenerate, to restrain their corruptions 5 in that it forbids sin q ; and the threatenings of it serve to shew what even their sins deserve, and what afflictions in this life they may expect for them, although freed from the curse thereof threatened in the law 1 ". The pro- mises of it, in like manner, show them God's ap- probation of obedience, and what blessings they n Rom. vii. 7. What shall we say then ? is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin but by the law : for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet* Rom. iii. 20. — For by the law is the knowledge of sin. Rom. vii. 9, 14, 24. For I was alive without the law once ; but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.— For we know that the law is spiritual ; but I am carnal, sold under sin. — O wretched man that I am ! who shall deliver me from the body of this death ? p Gal. iii. 24. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. Rom. viii. 3, 4. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh ; that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. Rom. vii. 24, 25. q James ii. 11. For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now, if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law. Psal. cxix. 128. Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and 1 hate every false way. r Ezra ix. 13, 14. And after all that is come upon us for our evil deeds, and for our great trespass, seeing that thou our God, hast punished us less than our iniquities deserve, and hast given us such deliverance as this ; should we again break thy commandments, and join in affinity with the people of these THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 87 may expect upon the performance thereof 55 ; al- though not as due to them by the law as a cove- nant of works 1 : so as a man's doing good, and re- fraining from evil, hecause the law encourageth to the one, and deterreth from the other, is no evi- dence of his being under the law, and not under grace v . VII. Neither are the aforementioned uses 01 the law contrary to the grace of the Gospel, but do sweetly comply with it w ; the Spirit of Christ subduing and enabling the will of man to do that freely and cheerfully, which the will of God, re- vealed in the law, requireth to be done*. abominations? Wouldest not thou be angry with us till thou hadst consumed us, so that there sliould be no remnant nor escaping? Psal. lxxxix. 30, 31, 32, 33, 34. 8 Psal. xxxvii. 11. But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. Psal. xix. 11. Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward. Lev. xxvi. 1. to the 14th verse, and Eph. vi. 2. Mat. v. 5. i Gal. ii. 16. Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law : for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. y Rom. vi. 12, 14. Let not sin therefore reign in your mor- tal body, that you should obey it in the lusts thereof. — For sin shall not have dominion over you : for ye are not under the law, but under grace. Heb. xii. 28, 29. Wherefore we re- ceiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace whereby we may serve God acceptably, with reverence and godly fear. For our God is a consuming fire. 1 Pet. iii. 8, 9, 10, 11, 12. Psal. xxxiv. 12, 13, 14, 15, 16. VII. w Gal. iii. 21. Is the law then against the promises of God ? God forbid : for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. Tit. ii. 11, 12, 13, 14. * Ezek. xxxvi. 27. And I will put my Spirit within you. 88 THE CONFESSION OP JPA1TH. CHAPTER XX. Of Christian Liberty , and Liberty of Conscience. THE liberty which Christ hath purchased for believers under the Gospel consists in their free- dom from the guilt of sin, the condemning wrath of God, the curse of the moral law a ; and in their being delivered from this present evil world, bon- dage to Satan, and dominion of sin b , from the evil of afflictions, the sting of death, the victory of the grave, and everlasting damnation ; as also in their free access to God d , and their yielding obedience and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them, Heb. viii. 10. For this is the cove- nant that I will make with the house of Israel, after those days, saith the Lord ; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts ; and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people. Jer. xxxi. 33. I. a Tit. ii. 14. Who gave himself for us, that he might re- deem us from all iniquity : and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good work - , Gal. iii. 13. Christ hath re- deemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us : for it is written, Cursed, &c. b Gal. i. 4. Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God, and our Father. Acts xxvi. 18. To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified, ky faith that is in me. Rom. vi. 14. For sin shall not have dominion over you : for ye are not under the law, but under grace. c Psal. cxix. 71. // w good for me, that I have been af- flicted : that I might learn thy statutes. 1 Cor. xv. 58, 57.~ The sting of death is sin ; and the strength of sin is the law. — But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Rom. viii. 1. d Rom. v. 2. By whom also we have access by faith into tins grace wherein we stand. THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 89 unto him, not out of slavish fear, but a child-like love, and a willing mind*. All which were com- mon also to believers under the law f ; but under the New Testament, the Liberty of Christians is further enlarged in their freedom from the yoke of the ceremonial law, to which the Jewish church was subjected 5 ; and in greater boldness of access to the throne of grace 11 , and in fuller communica- tions of the free Spirit of God, than believers un- der the law did ordinarily partake of*. e Rom. viii. 14, 15. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear ; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 1 John iv. 18. — There is no fear in love ; but perfect love casteth out fear : be- cause fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. f Gal. iii. 9, 14. So then they which be of faith, are blessed with faithful Abraham. That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might re- ceive the promise of the Spirit through faith. z Gal. v. 1. Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. Acts xv. 10. Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear ? Gal. iv. 1, 2, 3, 6. h Heb. iv. 14, 16. Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. — Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. Heb. x. 19, 20. Having there- fore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which he hath consecrated for us, through the vail, that is to say, his flesh. » John vii. 33, 39. He that believeth on me, as the Scrip- ture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living wa- ter. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive ; for the Holy Ghost was not yet £iren, because that Jesus was not yet glorified.) 2 Cor. iii. 13, 17, 18. 90 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. II. God alone is Lord of the conscience*, and have left it free from the doctrines and command- ments of men which are in any thing contrary to his word, or beside it, in matters of faith or wor- ship 1 . So that to believe such doctrines, or to obey such commandments out of conscience, is to betray true liberty of conscience™ ; and the re- quiring of an implicit faith, and an absolute and blind obedience, is to destroy liberty of conscience, and reason also . II. k Rom. xiv. 4. Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth : yea, he shall be hold en up ; for God is able to make him stand. 1 Acts iv. 19. But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. Acts v. 29. Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God, rather than men. 1 Cor. vii. 23. Mat. xxiii. 8, 9, 10. 2 Cor. i. 24. Mat. xv. 9. m Col. ii. 20, 22, 23. Wherefore, if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances ; (which all are to perish with the using,) after the commandments and doctrines of men ? Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will-worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body ; not in any honour tc the satisfying of the flesh. Gal. i. 10. For do I now persuade men, or God ? or do I seek to please men ? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. Gal. ii. 4. And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Je* sus, that they might bring us into bondage. See Gal. v. 1. n Isa. viii. 20. To the law and to the testimony : if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no ligb* in them. Acts xvii. 11. These were more noble than those it Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readi- ness of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily, whether those things were so. John iv. 22. Ye worship ye know not what . we know what we worship; for salvation is of the Jews. See alsoHos. v. 11 with Rev. xiii. 12, 16, 17. THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 91 III. They who, upon pretence of Christian li- berty, do practise any sin, or cherish any lust, do thereby destroy the end of Christian liberty ; which is, that, being delivered out of the hands of our enemies, we might serve the Lord without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life . IV. And because the powers which God hath ordained, and the liberty which Christ hath pur- chased, are not intended by God to destroy, but mutually to uphold and preserve one another; they who, upon pretence of Christian liberty, shall oppose any lawful power, or the lawful exercise of it, whether it be civil or ecclesiastical, resist the ordinance of God D . And for their publishing of such opinions, or maintaining of such practices, as are contrary to the light of nature, or to the known principles of Christianity, whether concerning faith, worship, or conversation ; or to the power of godliness ; or such erroneous opinions or practices, as, either in their own nature, or in the manner of publishing or maintaining them, are destructive to the external peace and order which Christ hath III. ° Gal. v. 13. For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty ; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. 1 Pet. ii. 16. As free, and not using: ynur liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as the ser- vants of God. Luke i. 74, 75. That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies, might serve him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life. 2 Pet. ii. 19. John viii. 34. I V. p 1 Pet. ii. 13, 14, 16. Submit yourselves to every or- dinance of man for the Lord's sake : whether it be to the king, as supreme ; or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evil doers, and for the praise of them th*t do well. — As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of 92 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. established in the church q ; they may lawfully be called to account, and proceeded against by the censures of the church r . CHAPTER XXI. Of Religious Worship, and the Sabbath-Day. J. HE light of nature sheweth that there is aGod- who hath lordship and sovereignty over all ; is good, and doeth good unto all ; and is therefore to be feared, loved, praised, called upon, trusted in, and served with all the heart, and with all the soul, and with all the might a . But the acceptable way maliciousness, but as the servants of God. Heb. xiii. 17.— Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit your- selves : for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account ; that they may do it with joy and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you. See also Rom. xiii. 1 to the 8th verse. i Rom. i. 32. Who, knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death ; not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them. 1 Cor. v. 1, 5, 11, 13. It is reported commonly that there is fornica- tion among you, and such fornication as is not so much as na- med among the Gentiles, that one should have his father's wife. — To deliver such a one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. — But now I have written unto you not to keep compa- ny, if any man that is called a brother, be a fornicator, or co- vetous, or an i^clater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extor- tioner ; with such a one no not to eat. — But them that are without, God judgeth. Therefore put away from among your- selves that wicked person. r 2 Thess. iii. 14. And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. Tit. iii. 10. A man that is a heretick, after the first and second admonition, reject. I. a Rom. i. 20. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearl seen, being understood b$ THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 93 of worshipping the true God is instituted by him- self, and so limited by his own revealed will, that he may not be worshipped according to the ima- ginations and devices of men, or the suggestions of Satan, under any visible representation or any other way not prescribed in the Holy Scripture h . II. Religious worship is to be given to God, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost ; and to him alone c : not to angels, saints, or any other creature d : and since the things that are made, even his eternal power and godhead ; so that they are without excuse. Psal. cxix. 68. Thou art good, and doest good : teach me thy statutes. Jer. x. 7. Who would not fear thee, O King of nations ? for to thee doth it appertain : forasmuch as among all the wise men of the nations, and in all their kingdoms, there is none like unto thee. Psal. xxx:i. 23. O love the Lord, all ye his saints ; for the Lord preserveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer. Psal. xviii. 3. Rom. x. 12. Psal. lxii. 8. Josh. xxiv. 14. Mark xii. 33. b Deut. xii. 32. What thing soever I command you, ob- serve to do it : thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it. Mat. xv. 9. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. Mat. iv. 9, 10. And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan : for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. See also Deut. xv. to the 20th verse, and Exod. xx. 4, 5, 6. II. c John v. 23. That all wen should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son, honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. 2 Cor. xiii. 14. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen Mat iv. 10. Rev. v. 11, 12, 13. d Col. ii. 18. Let no man beguile you of your reward, in a voluntary humility, and worshipping of angels. Rev. xix 10. And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not ; I am thy fellow-servant, and of thy bre- thren that have the testimony of Jesus : worship God. Rom. i. 25. Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. $4 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. the fall, not without a Mediator ; nor in the me- diation of any other but of Christ alone e . III. Prayer with thanksgiving, being one spe- cial part of religious worship 1 ", is by God required of all mens . a nd that it may be accepted, it is to be made in the name of the Son h , by the help of his Spirit 5 , according to his will k , with understand ing, reverence, humility, fervency, faith, love, and perseverance 1 ; and, if vocal, in a known tongue™. e John xiv. 6. Jesus saith unto hirn, I am the way, and the truth, and the life : no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. 1 Tim. ii. 5. For there is one God and one mediator be* tween God and men, the man Christ Jesus. Eph. ii. 18. For through him we both have an access by one Spirit unto the Fa- ther. III. f Phil. iv. 6. Be careful /or nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto Gou. s Psal. lxv. 2. O thou that hearest prayer, unto thee shall all flesh come. h John xiv. 13, 14. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it. 1 Rom. viii. 26. Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infir- mities : for we know not what we should pray for as we ought ; but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groan inga which cannot be uttered. k 1 John v. 14. And this is the confidence that we have in him, that if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us. 1 Psal. xlvii. 7. For God is the King of all the earth : sing ye praises with understanding. Heb. xii. 28. Let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably, with reverence and godly fear. Gen. xviii. 27. I have taken upon mo to speak unto the Lord, which am but dust and ashes. Jam. v. 16. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availetb much. Eph. vi. 18. Praying always with all prayer and sup- plication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all pei se- verance and supplication for ? 11 saints. See also Jam. i. 6, 7. Mark xi. 24. Mat. vi. 12, 14, 15. Col. iv. 2. m 1 Cor. xiv. 14. For if I pray in an unknown tongue, mv ipirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful. THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 95 IV. Prayer is to be made for things lawful", and for all sorts of men living, or that shall live here- after ; but not for the dead* 1 , nor for those of whom it may be known that they have sinned the sin unto death' 1 . V. The reading of the Scriptures with godly fcar r ; the sound preaching 55 , and conscionablc hearing of the word, in obedience unto God, with understanding, faith, and reverence 1 ; singing of TV. n 1 John v. 14. And this is the confidence that we have in him, that if we ask any thing according to his will, he hear- eth us. ° 1 Tim. ii. 1, 2. I exhort therefore, that, first, of all, sup- plications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men ; for kings, and for all that are in authority ; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. p 2 Sam. xii. 21, 22, 23. Then said his servants unto him, What thing is this that thou hast done ? Thou didst fast and weep for the child, while it was alive ; but when the child was dead, thou didst rise and eat bread. And he said, While the child was yet alive, I fasted and wept : for I said, VVho can tell whether God will be gracious to me, that the child may live ? But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast? can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me. Luke xvi. 25, 26. and Rev. xiv. 13. q 1 John v. 16. If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death : I do not say that he shall pray for it. V. r Acts xv. 21. For Moses of old time hath in every city them that preach him, being read in the synagogues every Sabbath-day. Rev. i. 3. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein : for the time is at hand. • 2 Tim. iv. 2 Preach the word ; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering, and doctrine. 1 James i. 22. But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. Acts x. 33. Immediately 9 96 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. psalms with grace in the heart v ; as also, the due administration and worthy receiving of the Sacra- ments instituted by Christ 5 are all parts of the or- dinary religious worship of God w : besides religious oaths x and vows y , solemn fastings 7 , and thanks- givings upon special occasions* ; which are, in their several times and seasons, to be used in a holy and religious manner b . therefore I sent to thee ; and thou hast well done that thou ait come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God. Heb. iv. 2- For unto us was the Gospel preached, as well as unto them ; but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. Mat. xiii. 19. Isa. lxvi. 2. v Col. iii. 16. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom ; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms, and hymns, and spiritual songs, singing with grace in youi hearts to the Lord. Eph. v. 19. Jam. v. 13. w Mat. xxviii. 19. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Acts ii. 42. And they continued stead- fastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. 1 Cor. xi. 23. to verse 29. *■ Dent. vi. 13. Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name. y Eccl. v.4, 5. When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it ; for he hath no pleasure in fools : pay that which thou hast vowed. Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow, and not pay. Acta xviii. 18. 2 Joel ii. 12. Therefore also now, saith the Lord, Turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning. Mat. ix. 15. Can the children of the bride-chamber mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast. 1 Cor. vii. 5. De- fraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency. a Psal. cvii. throughout. b Heb. xii. 28 Wherefore we receiving; a kingdom which THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 97 VI. Neither prayer nor any oilier part of reli- gious worship, is now. under the Gospel, either tied unto, or made more aceeptahle by any place in which it is performed, or towards which it is di- rected 1 : but God is to be worshipped every where 4 in spirit and in truth 6 ; as in private families f dai- lv-. and in secret each one by himself h , so more solemnly in the public assemblies, which are not cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably, with reverence and godly fear. VI. c John iv. 21. Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. ' Mai. i. 11. From the rising of the sun, even unto the go- ing down of the same, my name shall be great among the Gen- tiles ; and in every place incense shall be offered unto my name, and a pure offering : lor my name shall be great among the hea- Qien, saith the Lord of hosts. 1 Tim. ii. 8. I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. e John iv. 23, 24. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth : for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit : and they that worship him, must worship him in spirit and in truth. f Jer. x. 25. Pour out thy fury upon the heathen that know thee not, and upon the families that call not on thy name. Job i. 5. And it was so, when the days of their feasting were gone about, that Job sent and sanctified them, and rose up early in the morning, and offered burnt-offerings according to the number of them all : for Job said, It may be that my sons have sinned, and cursed God in their hearts. Thus did Job conti- nually. 2 Sam. vi. 18, 20. And as soon as David had made an end of offering burnt-offerings and peace-offerings, he blessed the people in the name of the Lord oi hosts. Then David re- turned to bless his household. s Mat. vi. 11. Give us this day our daily bread. Jos. xxiv. 15, h Mat. vi. 6. But thou, when thou pray est, enter into thy closet ; and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father, which is in secret ; and thy Father, which spp.th in secret, shall reward thee openly. Eph. vi. 18 98 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. carelessly or wilfully to be neglected or forsaken, when God, by his word or providence, calleth thereunto'. VII. As it is of the law of nature, that, in gene- ral, a due proportion of time be set apart for the worship of God ; so, in his word, by a positive, mo- ral, and perpetual commandment, binding all men in all ages, he hath particularly appointed one day in seven for a Sabbath, to be kept holy unto him k : which, from the beginning of the world to the resurrection of Christ, was the last day of the week; and, from the resurrection of Christ, was changed into the first day of the week 1 , which in ' Isa. lvi. 7. My house shall be called a house of prayer for all people. Heb. x. 25. Not forsaking the assembling of our- selves together, as the manner of some is ; but exhorting on* another : and so much the more, as ye see the day approach- ing. Prov. viii. 34. Blessed is the man that heareth me, Watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors. Acts ii. 42. And they continued steadfastly in the apos- tles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. VII. k See the 4th commandment in Exod. xx. 8, 9, 10, 11. Isa. lvi. 2, 4. Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth hold on it; that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil. — For thus saith the Lord unto the eunuchs that keep my Sabbaths, and choose the things that please me, and take hold of my co- venant. Isa. lvi. 6. 1 Gen. ii. 3. And God blessed the seventh day, and sancti- fied it ; because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made. 1 Cor. xvi. 1, 2. Now con- cerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day oi the week, let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. Acts xx. 7. And upon the first day of the week, when the disci- ples came together to break bread, Paul preached u»to them, (ready to depart on the morrow ;) and continued his speech un- til midnigrht. THE CONFESSION OF FAITFI. 99 Scripture is called the Lord's day™, and is to be continued to the end of the world, as the Christian Sabbath". VIII. This Sabbath is then kept holy unto the Lord, when men, alter a due preparing of their hearts, and ordering of their common alfairs before- hand, do not only observe a holy rest all the day from their own works, words, and thoughts, about their worldly employments and recreations ; but also are taken up the whole time in the public and private exercises of his worship, and in the duties of necessity and mercy". m Rev. i. 10. I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet. n Exod. xx. 8, 10. (See letter k ) Mat. v. 17, 18. Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets : I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. VIII. ° Exod. xvi. 23, 25, 26, 29, 30. And he said unto them, This is that which the Lord hath said, To-morrow is the rest of the holy Sabbath unto the Lord : bake that which ye will bake to-day, and seethe that ye will seethe ; and that which remaineth over, lay up for you to be kept until the morning. — And Moses said, Eat that to-day ; for to-day is a Sabbath unto the Lord .• to-day ye shall not find it in the field. Six days ye shall gather it ; but on the seventh day, which is the Sabbath, in it there shall be none. — See, for that the Lord hath given you the Sabbath, therefore he giveth you on the sixth day, the bread of two days : abide ye every man in his place, let no man go out of his place on the seventh day. So the people rested on the seventh day. Exod. xxxi. 15, 16. Six days may work be done ; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord : whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sab- bath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant.— Isa. lviii. 1:3. Neh. xiii. 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22. r Isa. lviii. 13. If thou turn away thy foot from the Sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day ; and call the Sabbath !00 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. CHAPTER XXII. Of Lawful Oaths and Vows, A. LAWFUL oath is a part of religious worship 3 , wherein upon just occasion, the person swearing, solemnly calleth God to witness what he asserteth or promiseth ; and to judge him according to the truth or falsehood of what he sweareth b . II. The name of God only is that by which men ought to swear, and therein it is to be used with all holy fear and reverence ; therefore to swear vainly or rashly by that glorious and dreadful name, or to swear at all by any other thing, is sin- ful, and to be abhorred d . Yet as, in matters of a delight, the holy of the Lord, honourable ; and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own plea- sure, nor speaking thine own words. Mat. xii. 1 to the 13th verse. I. a Deut. x. 20. Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God, him shalt thou serve, and to him shalt thou cleave, and swear by his name. b Exod. xx. 7. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain ; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. Lev. xix. 12. And ye shall not swear by my name falsely, neither shalt thou profane the name of thy God : I am the Lord. 2 Cor. i. 23. Moreover, I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth. See also 2 Chron. vi. 22, 23. II. c Deut. vi. 13. Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name. d J er. v. 7. How shall I pardon thee for this ? thy children have forsaken me, and sworn by them that are no gods : when I had fed them to the full, they then committed adultery, and as- sembled themselves by troops in the harlots' houses. James v. 12. But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath : but let your yea, be yea ; and your nay, nay ; lest ye fall inu* con demnation. See the 3d commandment in Exod. xx. 7. THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 101 weight and moment, an oath is warranted by the word of God under the. New Testament, as well as under the Old", s-o a lawful oath, being imposed by lawful authority, in such matters ought to be taken 1 ". III. Whosoever taketh an oath ought duly to consider the weightiness of so solemn an act, and therein to avouch nothing but what he is fully- persuaded is the truth*. Neither may any man bind himself by oath to any thing but what is good and just, and what he believeth so to be, and what he is able and resolved to perform h . Yet it is a sin to refuse an oath touching any thing that is good and just, being imposed by lawful authority'. e Heb. vi. 16. For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife. Isa. lxv. 16. f 1 Kings viii. 31. If any man trespass against his neigh- bour, and an oath be laid upon him to cause him to swear, and the oath come before thine altar in this house. Ezra x. 5. Then arose Ezra, and made the chief priests, the Levites, and all Israel, to swear that they should do according to this word. And they sware. III. s Jer iv. 2. And thou shall swear, The Lord liveth, in truth, in judgment, and in righteousness; and the nations shall bless themselves in him, and in him shall they glory See also Exod. xx. 7. h Gen.xxiv. 2, 3, 9. And Abraham said unto his eldest ser- vant of his house, that ruled over all that he had, Put, I pray thee, thy hand under my thigh ; and I will make thee swear by the Lord, the God of heaven, and the God of the earth, that thou shalt not take a wife unto my son of the daughters of tho Canaan ites, among whom I dwell. — And the servant put his hand under the thigh of Abraham his master, and sware to him concerning that matter. 1 Numb. v. 19, 21. And the priest shall charge her by an oath, and say unto the woman, If no man have lain with thee, and if thou hast not gone aside to uncleanness with another in- stead of thy husband, be thou free from this bitter water that 102 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. IV. An oath is to be taken in the plain and common sense of the words, without equivocation or mental reservation 1 *. It cannot oblige to sin ; but in any thing not sinful, being taken, it binds to performance, although to a man's own hurt 1 : nor is it to be violated, although made to heretics or infidels 03 . V. A vow is of the like nature with a promis- sory oath, and ought to be made with the like reli- gious care, and to be performed with the like faith- fulness". causeth the curse. — Then the priest shall charge the woman with an oath of cursing ; and the priest shall say unto the wo- man, The Lord make thee a curse and an oath among thy peo- ple, when the Lord doth make thy thigh to rot and thy belly to swell. Neh. v. 12. Then I called the priests, and took an oath of them, that they should do according to this promise. IV. k Psal. xxiv. 4. He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart ; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. Jer. iv. 2. See letter s. 1 Psal. xv. 4. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned ; but he honoureth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. 1 Sam. xxv. 22, 32, 33, 34. m Ezek. xvii. 16, 18. ^1 live, saith the Lord God, surely in the place where the king dwelleth that made him king, whose oath he despised, and whose covenant he brake, even with him in the midst of Babylon he shall die. — Seeing he de» spised the oath, by breaking the covenant, when lo, he had given his hand, and hath done all these things, he shall not escape. Josh. ix. 18, 19. 2 Sam. xxi. 1, 2. V. n Isa. xix. 21. And the Lord shall be known to Egypt, and the Egyptians shall know the Lord in that day, and shall do sacrifice and oblation ; yea, they shall vow a vow untc the Lord, and perform it. Eccl. v. 4, 5. When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it : for he hath no pleasure in fools : pay that which thou hast vowed. Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow, and not pay. Psal. lxvi. 13, 14. I will pay thee my vows, which my lips have uttered, and my mouth hath spoken, when I was in trouble. Psal. lxi. 8. THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 103 VI. It is not to be made to any creature, but to God alone -.'and that it may be accepted, it is to be made voluntarily, out of faith, and conscience of duty, in way of thankfulness for mercy received, or for obtaining of what we want ; whereby we more strictly bind ourselves to necessary duties, or to other things, so far and so long as they may fitly conduce thereunto . VII. No man may vow to do any thing forbid- den in the word of God, or what would hinder any duty therein commanded, or which is not in his own power, and for the performance whereof he hath no promise or ability from God q . In which respects, popish monastical vows of perpetual sin- VI. ° Psal. lxxvi. 11. Vow, and pay unto the Lord your God : let all that be round about him bring presents unto him that ought to be feared. Jer. xliv. 25, 26. P Deut. xxiii. 21, 23. When thou shalt vow a vow unto the Lord thy God, thou shalt not slack to pay it : for the Lord thy God will surely require it of thee ; and it would be sin in thee. — That which is gone out of thy lips, thou shalt keep and per- form, even a free-will-offering, according as thou hast vowed unto the Lord thy God, which thou hast promised with thy mouth. Psal. 1. 14. Offer unto God thanksgiving, and pay thy vows unto the Most High. Gen. xxviii. 20, 21, 22. And Jacob vowed a vow, saying, If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on, so that I come again to my father's house in, peace: then shall the Lord be my God: and this stone, which I have set for a pillar, shall be God's house : and of all that thou shalt give me, I will surely give the tenth unto thee. — Compare with the above 1 Sam. i. 11. and Psal. exxxii. 2, 3, 4, 5. V!I. *i Acts xxiii. 12. And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded together, and bound themselves under a curse, savins:, that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul. Mark vi. 26. And the king was exceeding sor- ry ; yet for his oath's sake, and for their sakes which sat with him, he would not reject her. See also Num. xxx. 5, 8, 12, 13. 104 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. gle life, professed poverty, and regular ooedience, are so far from being degrees of higher perfection, that they are superstitious and sinful snares, ia which no Christian may entangle himself 1 ". CHAPTER XXIII. Of the Civil Magistrate. (jOD, the Supreme Lord and King of all the world, hath ordained civil magistrates to be under him over the people, for his own glory and the public good, and to this end, hath armed them with the power of the sword, for the defence and en- couragement of them that are good, and for the punishment of evil-doers a . II. It is lawful for Christians to accept and exe- cute the office of a magistrate, when called there - unto b ; in the managing whereof, as they ought r 1 Cor. vii. 2, 9. Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. — But if they cannot contain, let them marry : for it is better to marry than to burn. 1 Cor. vii. 23. I. a Rom. xiii. 1, 3, 4. Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God : the powers that be are ordained of God. — For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid ot the power? Do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same. For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain : for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. 1 Pet. ii. 13, 14. Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake : whether it be to the king, as supreme ; or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evil- doers, and for the praise of them that do well. II. b Prov. viii. 15, 16. By me kings reign, and princes de- cree justice. By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges of the earth. See in letter a . THE COXFF.5MON OF FAITH. 105 especially to maintain piety, )U8tice, and peace, ac- cording to the wholesome laws of each common- wealth , so, tor that end, they may lawfully, now tinder the New Testament, wage war upon just and necessary occasions' 1 . III. Civil magistrates may not assume to them- selves the administration of the word and sacra- ments 6 ; or the power of the keys of the kingdom of heaven 1 " ; or, in the least, interfere in matters of faiths. Yet as nursing fathers, it is the duty of c Psalm lxxxii. 3, 4. Defend the poor and fatherless : do justice to the afflicted and need}\ Deliver the poor and needy : rid than out of the hand of the wicked. 2 Sam. xxiii. 3. The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God. See 1 Pet. ii. 13. letter a . d Luke iii. 14. And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do ? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely ; and be con- tent with your wages. Mat. viii. 9. For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth ; and to another, Come, and he cometh : and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. Acts x. 1, 2. Rom. xiii. 4. III. c 2 Chron. xxvi. 18. And they withstood Uzziah the king, and said unto him, It appertaineth not unto thee, Uzziah, to burn incense unto the Lord, but to the priests, the sons of Aaron, that are consecrated to burn incense ; go out of the sanctuary ; for thou hast trespassed ; neither shall it be for thine honour from the Lord God. f Mat. xvi. 19. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven : and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth, shall be bound in heaven ; and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth, shall be loosed in heaven. 1 Cor. iv. 1, 2. Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. s John xviii. 3G. Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world. Mai. ii. 7. For the priest's lips should keep know- ledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth : for he is the messenger of the Lord of hosts. Acts v. 29. Then Peter aud 106 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. civil magistrates to protect the church of our com- mon Lord, without giving the preference to any denomination of Christians above the rest, in such a manner, that all ecclesiastical persons whatever shall enjoy the full, free, and unquestioned liberty of discharging every part of their sacred functions, without violence or danger h . And, as Jesus Christ hath appointed a regular government and disci- pline in his church, no law of any commonwealth should interfere with, let. or hinder, the due exer- cise thereof, among the voluntary members of any denomination of Christians, according to their own profession and belief'. It is the duty of civil ma- gistrates to protect the person and good name of all their people, in such an effectual manner as that no person be suffered, either upon pretence of religion or infidelity, to offer any indignity, vio- lence, abuse or injury to any other person what- soever: and to take order, that all religious and ecclesiastical assemblies be held without molesta- tion or disturbance*. IV. It is the duty of the people to pray for ma- gistrates 1 , to honour their persons" 1 , to pay them the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. h Isa. xlix. 23. And kings shall be thy nursing fathers, and their queens thy nursing mothers. 1 Psal. cv. 15. Touch not mine anointed, and do my pro- phets no harm. Acts xviii. 14, 15, 16. k 2 Sam. xxiii. 3. 1 Tim. ii. 1. Rom. xiii. 4. IV. » 1 Tim. ii. 1, 2. I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men ; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in aU godliness and honesty. m J Pet. ii. 17. Fear God. Honour the king-. THE CONFESSION' OF FAITH. 107 tribute and other dues", to obey their lawful com- maads, and to be subject to their authority, for conscience' sake . Infidelity or difference in re- ligion, doth not make void the magistrate's just and Mgal authority, nor free the people from their due obedience to him p : from which ecclesiastical per- sons are not exempted * ; much less hath the pope any power or jurisdiction over them in their do- minions, or over any of their people ; and least of all to deprive them of their dominions or lives, if he shall judge them to be heretics, or upon any other pretence whatsoever 1 ". n Rom. xiii. 6, 7. For, for this cause pay ye tribute also : for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon thi3 very tiling. Render therefore to all their dues : tribute to whom tribute is due ; custom to whom custom ; fear to whom fear ; honour to whom honour. Rom. xiii. 5. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience' sake. Tit. iii. 1. Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work. p 1 Pet. ii. 13, 14, 16. Submit yourselves to every ordi- nance of man for the Lord's sake : whether it be to the king, as supreme: — or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evil-doers, and for the praise ot them that do well. — As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as the servants of God. q Rom. xiii. 1. Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. Acts xxv. 10, 11. Then said Paul, I stand at Cesar's judgment-seat, where I ought to be judged; to the Jews have ( done no wrong, as thou very well knowest. For if I be an offender, or have committed any thing worthy of death, I re- fuse not to die : but if there be none of these things whereof these accuse me, no man may deliver me unto them. I appeal unto Cesar. r 2 Thess. ii. 4. Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped ; so that lie, as God, sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he »s God. Rev. xiii. 15, 16, 17, 18. And he had power to gh e life unto the image, &c. 10 108 the CONFESSION OF FAITH. CHAPTER XXIV. Of Marriage and Divorce. JJ1ARRIAGE is to be between one man and one woman : neither is it lawful for any man to have more than one wife, nor for any woman to have more than one husband, at the same time a . II. Marriage was ordained for the mutual help of husband and wife b ; for the increase of mankind with a legitimate issue, and of the church with a holy seed ; and for preventing of uncleanness d . III. It is lawful for all sorts of people to marry wno are able with judgment to give their consent* 5 , yet it is the duty of Christians to marry only in the Lord f . And, therefore, such as profess the true reformed religion should not marry with infi- dels, Papists, or other idolaters : neither should such as are godly be unequally yoked, by marry- I. a 1 Cor. vii. 2. Mark x. 6, 7, 8, 9. II. b Gen. ii. 18. And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone : I will make him a help meet for him. c Mai. ii. 15. And did not he make one ? Yet had he the re- sidue of the Spirit. And wherefore one ? That he might seek a godly seed. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously against the wife of his youth. d 1 Cor. vii. 2, 9. Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let eve- ry man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. — But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn. III. e 1 Tim. iv. 3. Forbidding to marry. Gen. xxiv. 57, 58. And they said, We will call the damsel, and inquire at her mouth. And they called Rebekah, and said unto her, Wilt thou go with this man ? And she said, I will go. f 1 Cor. vii. 39. The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth ; but if her husband be dead, she is at liber- ty to be married to whom *he will ; only in the Lord. THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 109 ihlc with such as are notoriously wicked in their lite, or maintain damnable heresies*. IV. Marriage ought not to be within the de- crees of consanguinity or affinity forbidden in the \vord h ; nor can such incestuous marriages ever be made lawful by any law of man. or consent o parties, so as those persons may live together, as man and wife'. The man may not marry any of his wife's kindred nearer in blood than he may ot his own, nor the woman of her husband's kindred nearer in blood than of her own k . V. Adultery or fornication, committed after a contract, being detected before marriage, giveth just occasion to the innocent party, to dissolve that contract 1 . In the case of adultery after mar- s 2 Cor. vi. 14. Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers ; for what fellowship hath righteousness with un- righteousness ? and what communion hath light with darkness ? Gen. xxxiv. 14. Exod. xxxiv. 16. Compare 1 Kings xi. 4. Neh. xiii. 25, 26, 27. IV. h Lev. xviii. chap. 1 Cor. v. 1. It is reported common- ly that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father's wife. 1 Mark vi. 18. For John had said unto Herod, it is not law- ful for thee to have thy brother's wife. Lev. xviii. 24, 25, 261 27, 28. k Lev. xx. 19, 20, 21. And thou shalt not unco/er the na- kedness of thy mother's sister, nor of thy father's sister; for he uncovereth his near kin : they shall bear their iniquity. And tf a man shall lie with his uncle's wife, he hath uncovered his uncle's nakedness : they shall bear their sin : they shall die childless. And if a man shall take his brother's wife, it u an unclean thing; he hath uncovered his brother's nakedness : — they shall be childless. V. ! Mat. i. 18, 19, 20. Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on Uiis wise : When as his mother Mary was espoused to Jo- aeph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, 110 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. riage, it is lawful for the innocent party to sue out a divorce™, and after the divorce to marry another, as if the offending party were dead 11 . VI. Although the corruption of man be such as is apt to study arguments, unduly to put asunder those whom God hath joined together in mar riage ; yet nothing but adultery, or such wilful de- sertion as can no way be remedied by the church or civil magistrate, is cause sufficient of dissolving the bond of marriage : wherein a public and or- derly course of proceeding is to be observed ; and the persons concerned in it, not left to their own wills and discretion in their own case p . and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife ; for that which is conceived in her, is of the Holy Ghost. m Mat. v. 31, 32. It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement : But I say unto you, that whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery : and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced, committeth adultery. n Mat. xix. 9. And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery ; and whoso marrieth her which is put away, doth commit adultery. Rom. vii. 2, 3. VI. ° Mat. xix. 8. He saith unto them, Moses, because of he hardness of your hearts, suffered you to put away your wives : but from the beginning it was not so. 1 Cor. vii. 15. — But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases : but God hath called us to peace. Mat. xix. 6. Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. W'hat therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. P Ezra x. 3. Now therefore let us make a covenant with our God to put away all the wives, and such as are born oi THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. Ill CHAPTER XXV. Of the Church. TliE catholic or universal church, which is in- visible, consists of the whole number of the elect, that have been, are, or shall be gathered into one, under Christ the head thereof; and is the spouse, the body, the fulness of him that tilleth all in all a . II. The visible church, which is also catholic or universal under the Gospel, (not confined to one nation as before under the law) consists of all those throughout the world, that profess the true religion 5 , together with their children ; and is the them, according to the counsel of my lord, and of those that tremble at the commandment of our God ; and let it be done according to the law. I. a Eph. i. 10, 22, 23. That in the dispensation of the ful- ness of times, he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth ; even in him. — And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all. Col. i. 18. And he is the head of the body, the church. Eph. v. 23, 27, 32. II. b 1 Cor. i. 2. Unto the church of God which is at Co- rinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours. 1 Cor xii. 12, 13. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body ; so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one bo- dy, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free ; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. Psal. ii. 8. Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen/or thine in- heritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy posses- sion. Rom. xv. 9, 10, 11, 12. c 1 Cor. vii. 14. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the hus- band : else were your children unclean ; but now are they ho- ly. Acts .*. 39. For the promise is unto vouj and to your 10* 112 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH, kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ d , the house and family of God e , out of which there is no ordinary possibility of salvation f . III. Unto this catholic visible church, Christ hath given the ministry, oracles, and ordinances of God, for the gathering and perfecting of the saints, in this life, to the end of the world: and doth by his own presence and Spirit, according to his pro mise, make them effectual thereunto^. IV. This catholic church hath been sometimes children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. Gen. xvii. 7. And I will establish my covenant between me and thee, and thy seed after thee, in their generations, for an everlasting covenant ; to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee. Rom. xi. 16. For if the first fruit be holy, the lump is also holy ; and if the root be holy, so are the branches. Gal. iii. 7, 9, 14. Rom. iv. throughout. d Mat. xiii. 47. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind. — Isa. ix. 7. e Eph. ii. 19. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and tbreigners, but fellow- citizens with the saints, and of the house- hold of God. Eph. iii. 15. Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named. Prov. xxix. 18. Where there is no v.sion, the people perish ; but he that keepeth the law, happy is he. f Acts ii. 47. And the Lord added to the church daily such as sh >uld be saved. III. s Eph. iv. 11, 12, 13. And he gave some, apostles; and somr, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers. For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the min istry, for the edifying of the body of Christ : till we all con.e in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ. Isai. lix. 21. As for me, this is my co venant with them, saith the Lord : My Spirit that is upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth, shall not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy seed, nor out o/ lie mouth of thy seed's seed, saith the Lo^'d, from henceforth and for ever. Mat. xxviii. 19, 20. THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 113 more, sometimes less, visible* 1 . And particular churches, which are members thereof, are more or less pure, according as the doctrine of the Gospel is taught and embraced, ordinances administered, and public worship performed more or less purely in them'. V. The purest churches under heaven are sub- ject both to mixture and error k : and some have so degenerated, as to become no churches of Christ, but synagogues of Satan 1 . Nevertheless, IV. b Rom. xi. 3, 4. Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars ; and I am left alone, and they seek my life. But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal. Rev. xii. 6, 14. And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and three score days. — And to the woman were given two wings of a < sea. — The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the com 110 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. II. There is in every sacrament a spiritual re- lation or sacramental union, between the sign and the thing signified ; whence it comes to pass, that the names and effects of the one, are attributed to the other f . III. The grace which is exhibited in, or by the sacraments, rightly used, is not conferred by any power in them ; neither doth the efficacy of a sa- crament depend upon the piety or intention of him that doth administer it z , but upon the work of the Spirit h , and the word of institution, which con- tains, together with a precept authorising the use munion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ ? II. f Gen. xvii. 10. This is my covenant, which ye shall keep, between me and you, and thy seed after thee ; Every man-child among you, shall be circumcised. Mat. xxvi. 27, 28. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it : for this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. Tit. iii. 5. Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. III. s Rom. ii. 28, 29. For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly ; neither is that circumcision which is outward in the flesh : but he is a Jew which is one inwardly ; and circum- cision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter * whose praise is not of men, but of God. 1 Pet. iii. 21. The like figure whereunto, even baptism doth also now save us, (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer ol a £ood conscience toward God) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ. h Mat. iii. 11. I indeed baptize you with water unto repen- tance : but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear : he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire. 1 Cor. xii. 13. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gen- tiles, whether we be bond or free ; and have been all made to 3rink into one Spirit. THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 119 thereof, a promise of benefit to worthy recei- vers 1 . IV. There be only two sacraments ordained by Christ our Lord in the Gospel, that is to say, bap- tism and the supper of the Lord : neither of which rnaj be dispensed by any, but by a minister of the word, lawfully ordained k . V. The sacraments of the Old Testament, in regard of the spiritual things thereby signified and exhibited, were for substance, the same with those of the New 1 . 1 Mat. xxvi. 27, 28. See in letter f . Mat. xxviii. 19. See in letter b verse 20. Teaching them to observe all things what- fcoever I have commanded you : and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the world. Amen. IV. k Mat. xxvxii. 19. Go ye therefore, and teach all na- tions, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. 1 Cor. xi. 20, 23. When ye come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lord's supper. — For 1 have received of the Lord, that which also I de- livered unto you, that the Lord Jesus, the same night in which he was betrayed, took bread. 1 Cor. iv. 1. Let a man so ac- count of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Heb. v. 4. And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron. V. * 1 Cor. x. 1,2, 3, 4. Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were un- der the cloud, and all passed through the sea ; and were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea ; And did all eat the same spiritual meat ; and did all drink the same spi- ritual drink : (for they drank of that spiritual rock that followed them ; and that rock was Christ.) 1 Cor. v. 7, 8. Purge ou therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us : therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither* with the leaven of malice and wickedness ; but with the un- leavened bread of sincerity and truth. ii 120 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH CHAPTER XXVIII. Of Baptism* BAPTISM is a sacrament of the New Testament, ordained by Jesus Christ*, not only for the solemn admission of the party baptized into the visible church b , but also to be unto him a sign and seal o the covenant of grace , of his ingrafting into Christ d , of regeneration*, of remission of sins f , and of his giving up unto God, through Jesus Christ, to walk in newness of life 5 : which sacrament is, by Christ's I. a Mat. xxviii. 19. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Mark. xvi. 16 b 1 Cor. xii. 13. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free ; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. Gal. iii. 27, 28. c Rom. iv. 11. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being un- oircumcised ; that lie might be the father of all them that be- lieve, though they be not circumcised, that righteousness might he imputed unto them also. Compared with Col. ii. 11, 12. In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ; Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him, through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. d Gal. iii. 27. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ, have put on Christ. Rom. vi. 5. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection. e Tit. iii. 5. He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. f Acts ii. 38. Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remis- sion of sins. Mark i. 4. Acts xxii. 16. s Rom. vi. 3, 4. Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ, were baptized into his death ? THE CONFESS It A OF FAITH. 17! own Appointment, to be continued in his church until the end of the world 11 . II. The outward element to be used in this sa- crament is water, wherewith the party is to be baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, by a minister of the Gospel, lawfully called thereunto'. III. Dipping of the person into the water is not necessary ; but baptism is rightly administered by pouring, or sprinkling water, upon the person k . IV. Not only those that do actually profess faith in, and obedience unto Christ 1 , but also the infants Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death ; that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the giory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. h Mat. xxviii. 19, 20. Go ye therefore, and teach all na- tions, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost ; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you : and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. II. ■ Acts x. 47. Can any man forbid water, that these shoull not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost? — Act3 viii. 36, 38. And as they went on their way, they came unt certain water : and the eunuch said, See, here is water what doth hinder me to be baptized ? — An^ he commanded the chariot to stand still : and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch ; and he baptized him. Mat. xxviii. 19. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the xiame of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. IH. k Acts ii. 41. Then they that gladly received his word, wee baptized : and the same day there were added unto them abr-ut three thousand souls. Acts xvi. 33. And he took them Vit same hour of the night, and washed their stripes ; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway. Mark vii. 4. And when they come from the market, except they w r ash, (Greek, be bap- tized) they eat not. And many other things there be, which they have received to hold, as the washing (Greek, baptizing) of cups, and pots, and brazen vessels, and tables. Heb. ix. 10, 19, 20, 21. IV. l Mark wri, 15, 16. And he said unto them, Go ye into 122 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. of one or both believing parents are to be bap- tized 111 . V. Although it be a great sin to contemn or neglect this ordinance", yet grace and salvation all the world, and preach the Gospel to every creature. He that belie v r eth, and is baptized, shall be saved. Acts viii. 37. And Philip said, If thou believest with all thy heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ- is the Son of God. m Gen. xvii. 7, 9. with Gal. iii. 9, 14. And I will establish my covenant between me and thee, and thy seed after thee, in their generations, for an everlasting covenant ; to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee. — And God said unto Abraham, Thou shalt keep my covenant therefore, thou, and thy seed after thee, in their generations. — So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham. — That the bles- sing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. Rom. iv. 11, 12. And he received the sign of circum- cision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised ; that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised, that righteous- ness might be imputed unto them also : and the father of cir- cumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised. Acts ii. 38, 39. Re- pent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesu9 Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. Acts xvi. 14, 15, 33. Lydia — whose heart the Lord opened — was baptized, and her household — was baptized, he (viz. the jailer) and all his. Col. ii. 11, 12. 1 Cor. vii. 14. Mat. xxviii. 19. Mark x. 13, 14, 15, 16. Luke xviii. 15. V. n Luke vii. 30. But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him. Exod. iv. 24, 25, 26. And it came to pass by the way in the inn, that the Lord met him, and sought to kill him. Then Zipporah took a sharp stone, and cut off the foreskin of her son, and cast it at his feet, and said, Surely a bloody hus- band art thou to me. So he let him go : then she said, A bloody husband thou art, because of the circumcision. THE CONFESSION G r TAIT1I. 123 ore not so inseparably annexed unio it, as that no person can be Regenerated or s* red without it°, or that all that arc baptized, are undoubtedly re- gene rated p . VI. The efficacy of baptism is not tied to that moment of time wherein it is administered' 1 ; ye notwithstanding, by the right use of this ordinance the grace promised is not only offered, but really exhibited and conferred by the loly Ghost, to such (whether of age or infants) as, that grace be- longeth unto, according to the counsel of God's own will, in his appointed time r . VII. The sacrament of baptism, is but once to be administered to any person 55 . ° Rom. iv. 11. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being un- circumcised ; that he might be the father of all them that be- lieve, though they be not circumcised, that righteousness might be imputed unto them also. Acts x. 2, 4, 22, 31, 45, 47. p Acts viii. 13, 23. Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were clone. — For I per- ceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. VI. i John iii. 5, 8. Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water, and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. — The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth ; so is every one that is born of the Spirit. r Gal. iii. 27. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ, have put on Christ. Eph. v. 25, 26. Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it ; that he might sanc- tify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word. Acts ii. 38, 41. VII. ■ Tit. iii. 5. Not by works of righteousness which wo have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. N. B. There is no command, and no adequate example, for the repetition of baptism. ISM THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. CHAPTER XXIX. Of the Lord^s Supper, UljR Lord Jesus, in the night wherein he was betrayed, instituted the sacrament of his body and blood, called the Lord's Supper, to be observed in his church, unto the end of the world ; for the per- petual remembrance of the sacrifice of himself in his death, the sealing all benefits thereof unto true believers, their spiritual nourishment and growth in him, their further engagement in, and to all du- ties which they owe unto him 5 and to be a bond and pledge of their communion with him, and with each other, as members of his mystical body a . II. In this sacrament Christ is not offered up to his Father, nor any real sacrifice made at all for remission of sins of the quick or dead b , but only a I. a 1 Cor. xi. 23, 24, 25, 26. For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Je- sus, the same night in which he was betrayed, took bread : And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat ; this is my body, which is broken for you : this do in re- membrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testa- ment in my blood : this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remem- brance of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come. 1 Cor. x. 16, 17, 21. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the com- munion of the blood of Christ ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ ? For we, being many, are one bread, and one body : for we are all partaker? of that one bread. — Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils : ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils. 1 Cor. xii. 13. For by one Spirit ire we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gen tiles, whether we be bond or free ; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. II. b Heb. ix. 22, 25, 26, 28. And almost all thiners are bv THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 125 commemoration of that once offering up of him- self, by himself, upon the cross, once for all, and a spiritual oblation of all possible praise unto God for the same ; so that the Popish sacrifice of the mass, as they call it, is most abominably injurious to Christ's one only sacrifice, the alone propitia- tion for all the sins of the elect d . III. The Lord Jesus hath, in this ordinance, appointed his ministers to declare his word of in- stitution to the people, to pray, and bless the ele- ments of bread and wine, and thereby to set them apart from a common to a holy use ; and to take and break the bread, to take the cup, and (they communicating also themselves,) to give both to the law purged with blood ; and without shedding of blood is no remission. — Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others ; for then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. — So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many : and unto them that look for him, shall he appear the second time, with- out sin unto salvation. c Mat. xxvi. 26, 27. And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed if, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat ; this is my body. And he took the cup, and 2^-ve thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it. Luke xxii. 19, 20. And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which i? given for you : this do in remembrance of me. Like- wise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you. d Heb. vii. 23, 24, 27. And they truly were many priests, because they were not suffered to continue by reason of death; but this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchange- able priesthood. — Who needeth not daily, as those high priests* to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the peo- ple's : for this he did once, when he offered up himself. Heb. x 1 1, 12, 14, 13. And every priest standeth daily ministering 1*26 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. the communicants e ; but to none who are not then present in the congregation 1 ". IV. Private masses, or receiving this sacrament by a priest or any other, alone g ; as likewise the denial of the cup to the people h 5 worshipping the elements, the lifting them up, or carrying them about for adoration, and the reserving them for any pretended religious use ; are all contrary to the nature of this sacrament, and to the institution of Christ 1 . V. The outward elements in this sacrament, duly set apart to the uses ordained by Christ, have such relation to him crucified, as that truly, yet sacramentally only, they are sometimes called by the name of the things they represent, to wit, the body and blood of Christ k ; albeit, in substance and and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins : but this man, after he had offered one sacri- fice for sins, for ever sat down on the right-hand of God. — For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sane- tified. — Now, where remission of these is, there is no more offer* mg for sin. III. e See the institution. Mat. xxvi. 26, 27, 28. Mark xiv. 22, 23, 24. Luke xxii. 19, 20. and 1 Cor. xi. 23 to 27. f Acts xx. 7. And upon the first day of the week, when th« disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, (ready to depart on the morrow) and continued his speech until midnight. 1 Cor. xi. 20. When ye come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lord's supper. IV. s b Because there is not the least appearance of a war- rant for any of these things, either in precept or example, in any part of the word of God. See all the places in which the ordinance is mentioned — the most important of which are ci- ted above. 1 Mat. xv. 9. But in vain they do worship me, teaching fur doctrines the commandments of men. V. k Mat. xxvi. 26, 27, 28. And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the dis- ciples, and said, Take, eat ; this is my body. And he took the THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 127 nature, they still remain truly, and only, bread and wine, as they were before 1 . VI. That doctrine which maintains a change of the substance of bread and wine, into the sub- stance of Christ's body and blood (commonly called transubstantiation) by consecration of a priest, or by any other way, is repugnant, not to Scripture alone, but even to common sense and reason ; overthroweth the nature of the sacra- ment ; and hath been, and is the cause of manifold superstitions, yea, of gross idolatries" 1 . VII. Worthy receivers, outwardly partaking of the visible elements in this sacrament", do then also inwardly by faith, really and indeed, yet not carnally and corporally, but spiritually, receive and feed upon Christ crucified, and all benefits of his death : the body and blood of Christ being then cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying 1 , Drink ye all of it : for this is my blood of the new testament which is thed for many for the remission of sins. 1 1 Cor. xi. 26, 27. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come. Wherefore, whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. VI. m Acta iii. 21. Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets, since the world began. 1 Cor. xi. 24, 25, 26. This do in remembrance of me. This do ye, as oft as ye drink it in remembrance of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord'3 death till he come. Luke xxiv. 6, 39. He is not here, but is risen. Remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee. — Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself' handle me, and see ; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have. VII. n 1 Cor. xi. 28. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. 1 Cor v. 7, 8. 128 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. not corporally or carnally in, with, or undei the bread and wine ; yet as really, but spiritually, pre- sent to the faith of believers in that ordinance, as the elements themselves are, to their outward senses . VIII. Although ignorant and wicked men re- ceive the outward elements in this sacrament, yet they receive not the thing signiried thereby ; but by their unworthy coming thereunto are guilty of the body and blood of the Lord, to their own dam- nation. Wherefore all ignorant and ungodly per- sons, as they are unfit to enjoy communion with him, so are they unwoithy of the Lord's table, and cannot, without great sin against Christ, while they remain such, partake of these holy mysteries p , or be admitted thereunto *. 1 Cor. x. 16. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ ? 1 Cor. x. 3, 4. VIII. p 1 Cor. xi. 27, 29. Wherefore, whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall De guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. — For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damna- tion (judgment) to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. 2 Cor. vi. 14, 15, 16. Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers ; for what fellowship hath righteousness with un- righteousness ? and what communion hath light with darkness ? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hatb he that believeth with an infidel ? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols ? For ye are the temple of the living God ; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them ; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 1 Cor. x. 21. Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, ajid the cup of devils : ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils. i 1 Cor. v. 6, 7, 13. Your glorying is not good. Know ye Hot that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump ? Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ve may be anew lump, as ye re THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 129 CHAPTER XXX. Of Church Censures. TlTE Lord Jesus, as king and head of his church, hath therein appointed a government in the hand of church-officers, distinct from the civil magis- trate 1 . II. To these officers the keys of the kingdom of heaven are committed, by virtue whereof they have power respectively to retain and remit sins to shut that kingdom against the impenitent, both by the word and censures ; and to open it unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us. — But them that are without, God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person. 2 Thess. iii. 6, 14, 15. Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us. — And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother. Mat. vii. 6. Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you. I. a Isa. ix. 6, 7. For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given ; and the government shall be upon his shoulder ; and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from hence- forth even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will per- form this. 1 Tim. v. 17. Let the elders that rule well, be counted worthy of double honr the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. — Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person. Mat. xviii. 17. Tit. iii. 10. I. a Acts xv. 2, 4, 6. When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they deter- mined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question. — And when they were come to Jerusalem, they weie received of the church, and of the apostles and elders ; 132 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. and it belongeth to the overseers and other rulers of the particular churches, by virtue of their of- fice, and the power which Christ hath given them for edification, and not for destruction, to appoint such assemblies^ and to convene together in them, as often as they shall judge it expedient for the good of the church c . II. It belongeth to synods and councils, minis- terially, to determine controversies of faith, and cases of conscience ; to set down rules and direc- tions for the better ordering of the public w r orship of God, and government of his church ; to receive complaints in cases of mal-administration, and au- thoritatively to determine the same : which de- crees and determinations, if consonant to the word of God, are to be received with reverence and submission, not only for their agreement with the word, but also for the power whereby they are made, as being an ordinance of God, appointed thereunto in his word d . and they declared all things that God had done with them.-— And the apostles and elders came together for to consider oi this matter. b Acts, chap. xv. c Acts xv. 22, 23, 25. Then pleased it the apostles and el- ders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch, with Paul and Barnabas ; namely , Judas, surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren • and they wrote letters by them after this manner ; The apos- tles, anu elders, and brethren, send greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch, and Syria, and Cilicia :— ft seemed good unto us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men unto you, with our beloved Barnabas and Paul. II. d Acts xvi. 4. And as they went through the cities, they delivered them the decrees for to keep, that were ordained oi the Apostles and elders which were at Jerusalem. Acts xv. 15, 19, 24, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31. Mat. xviii. 17, 18, 19, 29 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 133 III. All synods or councils since the apostles' times, whether general or particular, may err, and many have erred; therefore they are not to be made the rule of faith or practice, but to be used as a help in both . [V. Synods and councils are to handle or con- clude nothing, but that which is ecclesiastical : and are not to intermeddle with civil affairs which concern the commonwealth, unless by way of humble petition in cases extraordinary; or by fray of advice for satisfaction of conscience, if they be thereunto required by the civil magi- strate f . CHAPTER XXXII. Of the State of Man after Death, and of the Resur- rection from the Dead. THE bodies of men, after death, return to dust and see corruption 3 5 but their souls, (which nei- III. e Acts xvii. 11. These were more noble than those io Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readi- ness of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily, whether those things were so. 1 Cor. ii. 5. That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. 2 Cor. i. 24. Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy : for by faith ye stand. Eph. ii. 20. IV. f Luke xii. 13, 14. And one of the company said unto him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheri- tance with me. And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge, or a divider over you ? John xviii. 36. Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, then w<>uld my servants fight, that I should not be de- livered to the Jews : but now is my kingdom not from hence. I. a Gen. iii. 19. In the sweat of thy face, shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground ; for out of it wast thou '.aken : for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return. Acts 134 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH ther die nor sleep) having an immortal subsistence, immediately return to God who gave them b . The souls of the righteous, being then made perfect in holiness, are received into the highest heavens, where they behold the face of God in light and glory, waiting for the full redemption of their bo- dies : And the souls of the wicked are cast into hell, where they remain in torments and utter darkness, reserved to the judgment of the great day J . Besides these two places for souls separa- ted from their bodies, the Scripture acknowledg- ed none. II. At the last day, such as are found alive shall not die, but be changed e : And all the dead shall xiii. 36. For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell on sleep, and was laid unto his fathers, and saw corruption. b Luke xxiii. 43. And Jesus said unto him, Verily, I say unto thee, To-day shalt thou be with me in Paradise. Eccl. xii. 7. Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was : and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it. c Heb. xii. 23. To the general assembly and church of the first-born, which are written in heaven, and to God the judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect. Phil. i. 23. For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better. 1 John iii. 2. Be- loved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be ; but we know, that when he shall appear, we shall be like him ; for we shall see him as he is. 2 Cor. v. 1, 6, 8. d Luke xvi. 23, 24. And in hell he lifted up his eyes, being m torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue ; for I am tormented in this flame. Jude verses 6, 7. IL e 1 Thess. iv. 17. Then we which are alive and remain ehall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air : and so shall we ever be with the Lord. THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 135 be raised up with the self-same bodied, and none other, although with different qualities* which shall be united again to their souls for ever f . III. The bodies of the unjust, shall by the power of Christ, be raised to dishonour; the bo- dies of the just, by his Spirit, unto honour, and be made conformable to his own glorious body g . CHAPTER XXXIII. Of the last Judgment. (jOD hath appointed a day, wherein he will judge the world in righteousness by Jesus Christ 3 , 1 Cor. xv. 51, 52. Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling; of an eye, at the last trump ; for the trumpet shall sound ; and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. f Job xix. 26, 27. And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God : whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another ; though my reins be consumed within me. 1 Cor. xv. 42, 43, 44. So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption, it is raised in incorruption : it is sown in dishonour, it is raised in glory : it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power : it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. III. s Acts xxiv. 15. And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust. John v. 28, 29. Mar- vel not at this : for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, and shall come forth ; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life ; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation. Phil. iii. 21. Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself. I. a Acts xvii. 31. Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness, by that man 12* 136 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. to whom all power and judgment is given of the Father b . In which day, not only the apostate an- gels shall be judged ; but likewise all persons, that ha xT e lived upon earth, shall appear before the tri- bunal of Christ, to give an account of their thoughts, words, and deeds ; and to receive ac- cording to what they have done in the body, whe- ther good or evil 11 . II. The end of God's appointing this day, is for the manifestation of the glory of his mercy in the eternal salvation of the elect* ; and of his justice in whom he hath ordained ; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead. b John v. 22, 27. For the Father judgeth no man ; but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: — And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son oi man. c 1 Cor. vi. 3. Know ye not that we shall judge angels ? How much more, things that pertain to this life? Jude verse 6. And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness, unto the judgment of the great day. 2 Pet. ii. 4. For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but ca.st them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment. d 2 Cor. v. 10. For we must all appear before the judg- ment-seat of Christ ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. Eccl. xii. 14. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whe ther it be evil. Rom. ii. 16. In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my Gospel. Rom. xiv. 10, 12. But why dost thou judge thy brother? oi why dost thou set at nought thy brother ? for we shall all stand before the judgment-seat of Christ. — So then every one of us fhall give account of himself to God. Mat. xii. 36, 37. But 1 Eay unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall gwe account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. II. e Rom. ix. 23. And that he might make known the THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. 137 the damnation of the reprobate, who are wicked and disobedient'. For then shall the righteous go into everlasting life, and receive that fulness of joy and refreshing which shall come from the pre- sence of the Lord g : But the wicked, who know not God, and obey not the Gospel of Jesus Christ, shall be cast into eternal torments, and be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power 1 '. III. As Christ would have us to be certainly riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory. Mat. xxv. 21. His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant ; thou hast been faith- ful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things : enter thou into the joy of thy lord. f Rom. ii. 5, 6. But after thy hardness and impenitent heart, treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath, and revelation of the righteous judgment of God ; who will render to every man according to his deeds. 2 Thess. i. 7, 8. The Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, in naming fire, taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesua Christ. Rom. ix. 22. e Mat. xxv. 31, 32, 33, 34. When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory : and before him shall be fathered all nations ; and he shall separate them one from ano- ther, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats : and he shall set the sheep on his right-hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right-hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. Acts iii. 19. Times of re- freshing shall come from the presence of the Lord. 2 Thess. i. 7. And to you who are troubled, rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels. h Mat. xxv. 41, 4G. Then shall he say also unto them on the left-hand, Depart from me ye cursed, into everlasting fire, pre- pared for the devil and his angels : — and these shall go away into everlasting punishment. 2 Thess. i. 9. Who shall be punished 138 THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. persuaded that there shall be a day of judgment, both to deter all men from sin, and for the greatei consolation of the godly in their adversity 1 : So will he have that day unknown to men, that they may shake off all carnal security, and be always watchful, because they know not at what hour the Lord will come ; and may be ever prepared to say, Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly k . Amen. with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, ind from the glory of his power. Isa. lxvi. 24. For their worm shall not die, neither shall their fire be quenched. III. » 2 Pet. iii. 11, 14. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness ? — Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be founts of him in peace, without spot and blameless. 2 Cor. v. 11 Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men but we are made manifest unto God ; and 1 trust also are made manifest in your consciences. 2 Thess. i. 5, 6, 7. Which U a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye ma-y be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer : seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you ; and to you who are trou- bled, rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels. Luke xxi. 27, 28. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud, with power and great glory. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads ; for your redemption draweth nigh. k Mark xiii. 35, 36, 37. Watch ye therefore ; for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at mid- night, or at the cock-crowing, or in the morning: lest, com- ing suddenly, he find you sleeping. And what 1 say unto you, 1 say unto all, Watch. Luke xii. 35, 36. Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning ; and ye your- selves like unto men that wait for their Lord, when he will return from the wedding ; that, when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately. Rev. xxii. 20. He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly; Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. See Mat. xxh. 36, 42, 43, 44. (139) THE LARGER CATECHISM, RATIFIED AND ADOPTED BY THE SYNOD OF NEW-YORK AND PHILADELPHIA. Held at Philadelphia, May the 16th, 1738, and continued by adjournments until the 28th, of the same. (J. 1. TV HAT is the chief and highest end of man ? A. Man's chief and highest end is to glorify God% and fully to enjoy him for ever b . Q. 2. How doth it appear that there is a God ? A. The very light of nature in man, and the works of God, declare plainly that there is a God c ; but his word and Spirit only, do sufficiently and effectually, reveal him unto men for their salva- tion^ a Rom. xi. 36. For of him, and through him, and to him are all things : to whom be glory for ever. Amen. 1 Cor. x. 31. Whether therefore ye eat or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. '• Psal. lxxiii. 24, 25, 26. Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but thee ? and there is none upon earth that I desire besides thee. My flesh and my heart faileth : but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever. John xvii. 22, and 24. The ?lory which thou gavest me I have given them. — Father, I will that they also whom thou hast given me be with me where 1 am ; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me. c Rom. i. 19, 20. Because that which may be known of God, is manifest in them ; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead ; so that they are without excuse. See also Psal. xix. 1, 2, 3. d 2 Tim. iii. 15, 16, 17. And that from a child thou hast know a the holy scriptures, which are able to make thf»e wise 140 THE LARGER CATECHISM, Q. 3. What is the ivord of God ? Jl. The holy scriptures of the Old and New Testament are the word of God e , the only rule of faith and obedience 1 ". Q. 4. Hozo doth it appear that the Scriptures are the word of God ? A. The Scriptures manifest themselves to be the word of God, by their majesty^ and purity b ; by the consent of all the parts 1 , and the scope of the unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righ- teousness ; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. 1 Cor. ii. 10. e 2 Tim. iii. 16. All scripture is given by inspiration of God. 2 Pet. i. 19, 20, 21. We have also a more sure wordoi prophecy ; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day-star arise in your hearts ; knowing this first, that no pro- phecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man ; but ho- ly men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. f Isa. viii. 20. To the law and to the testimony : if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Luke xvi. 29, 31. They have Moses and the pro- phets; let them hear them. — If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rose from the dead. Gal. i. 8, 9. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other Gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other Gos- pel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed, See also 2 Tim. iii. 15, 16, 17. s Isa. lxvi. 1. Thus saith the Lord, The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool : where is- the house that ye build unto me ? and where is the place of my rest ? See also Amos ix. 2, 3, 4. Psal. lxxvii. h Psal. xii. 6. The words of the Lord are pure words : as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Psah cxix. 140. Thy word is very pure. : Acts x. 43. To him gave all the prophets witness, that THE L\RGER CATECHISM. 141 whole, which is to give all glory to God k ; by their lii^ht and power to convince and convert sinners, to comfort and build up believers unto salvation 1 : But the Spirit of God bearing witness by and with the Scriptures in the heart of man, is alone able fully to persuade it that they are the very word of God m . Q. 5. What do the Scriptures principally teach ? A. The Scriptures principally teach, what man is to believe concerning God, and what duty God requires of man". through his name, whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. Acts xxvi. 22. Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the pro- phets and Moses did say should come. k Rom. iii. 19, 27. Now we know, that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law ; that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. — Where is boasting then ? It is excluded. — By what law ? of works ? Nay ; but by the law of faith. 1 Acts xviii. 28. For he mightily convinced the Jews, and *hat publicly, shewing by the Scriptures, that Jesus was Christ. Heb. iv. 12. For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and mar- row, and if a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. James i. 18. Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth. Psal. xix. 7, 8, 9. The law of the Lord is perfect, con- verting the soul : the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple, &c. m John vxi. 13, 14. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth is come, hf mine, and shall shew it unto you. 1 John ii. 20, 27. n John xx. 31. But these are written, that ye might be- lieve that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God ; and that be- lieving ye might have life through his name. 2 Tim. i. 13. — Hold fast the form of sound works, which thou hast heard ol me, in faith and love. Psal. cxix. 105. 142 THE LARGER CATECHISM. WHAT MAN OUGHT TO BELIEVE CONCERNING GOD. Q. 6. What do the Scriptures make known oj God? A. The Scriptures make known what God is , the persons in the Godhead p , his decrees -, and the execution of his decrees 1 ". Q. 7. What is God? A. God is a Spirit 53 , in and of himself infinite in being*, glory v , blessedness^, and perfection 5 ; all- • John iv. 24. God is a Spirit. Exod. iii. 14. and xxxiv 6,7. P 1 John v. 7. For there are three that bear record in hea- ven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost : and these three are one. «* Acts xv. 14, 15, 18. r Acts iv. 27, 28. For of a truth, against thy holy child Je- ans, — both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together, for to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done. 9 John iv. 24. God is a Spirit. 1 Exod. iii. 14. And God said unto Moses, I am that J am : And he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Is- rael, I am hath sent me unto you. Job xi. 7, 8, 9. Canst thou by searching find out God ? canst thou find out the Al- mighty unto perfection ? It is as high as heaven ; what cans- thoudo? deeper than hell ; what canst thou know? the mea- sure thereof is longer than the earth, and broader than the sea. T Acts vii. 2. The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran. w 1 Tim. vi. 15. Which- in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords. x Mat. v. 48. Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. THE LARGER CATECHISM. 143 sunVienP, eternal 2 , unchangeable*, incomprehm- Bible h , every where present*-', almighty* 1 , knowing all thlltgs e , most wise 1 ", most holy-, most just 1 ', most merciful and gracious, long-suilering, and abundant in goodness and truth'. Q. 8. Are there more Gods than one ? y Gen. xvii. 1. And when Abram was ninety years ol and nine, the Lord appeared to Abram, and said unto him, / am the Almighty God: walk before me, and be thou per feet z Psal xc. 2. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art. God. a Mai. iii. 6. For / am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. James i. 17. b 1 Kings viii. 27. But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, the heaven, and heaven of heavens, cannot contain thee ; how much less this house that I have builded ? c Psalm exxxix. 1, 2, 7. O Lord, thou hast searched me, And known me. Thou knowest my down-sitting and mine up- rising, thou understandest my thought afar off. — Whither shall I go from thy Spirit ? or whither shall I flee from thy pre- sence ? d Rev. iv. 8. And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within ; and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come. e Heb, iv. 13. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight : but all things are naked and open unto the eves of him with whom we have to do. And Psalm cxlvii. 5. f Rom. xvi. 27. To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen. s Isa. vi. 3. And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts ; the whole earth is full of his glory. Rev. xv. 4. Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glo rify thy name? for thou only art holy. h Deut. xxxii. 4. lie is the rock, his work is perfect; for all his ways are judgment : a God of truth, and without ini- quity; just and right is he. ■ Exod. xxxiv. 6. And the Lord passed by before him, and proclaimed, The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth. 13 i44 THE LARGER CATECHISM. A. There is but one only, the living and true God k . Q. 9. How many persons are there in the Godhead? A. There be three persons in the Godhead, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; and these three are one true, eternal God, the same in sub- stance, equal in power and glory : although distin- guished by their personal properties 1 . Q. 10. What are the personal properties of thf three persons in the Godhead ? A. It is proper to the Father to beget the Son rc , and to the Son to be begotten of the Father", and to the Holy Ghost to proceed from the Father and the Son, from all eternity . Q. 1 1 . How doth it appear that the Son and the Holy Ghost are God equal with the Father? A. The Scriptures manifest that the Son and the Holy Ghost are God equal with the Father, k Deut. vi. 4. Hear, O Israel ; the Lord our God u cne Lord. 1 Cor. viii. 4. There is none other God but one. And verse 6. Jer. x. 10. But the Lord is the true God, he is the living God, and an everlasting King. 1 1 John v. 7. For there are three that bear record in hea ven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost : and these three are one. Mat. iii. 16, 17. and xxviii. 19. 2 Cor. xiii. 14 John x. 30. m Heb. i. 5, 6. For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee ? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son. John i. 14. n John i. 14. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. ° John xv. 26. But when the Comforter is come, whom I shall send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me. Gal. iv. 6. And because yo are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, A* *m, Father. THE LARGER CATECHISM. 145 Ascribing unto them such names p , attributes' 5 , works'", and worship, as are proper to God only. Q. 12. II hat are the decrees of God? A. God's decrees are the wise, free, and holy acts of the counsel of his will 1 , whereby, from all r Jer. xxiii. 6. And this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD (or Jehovah) OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS. I John v. 20. And we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life. Psal. xlv. 6. Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever. Acts v. 3, 4. But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thy heart to lie to the Holy Ghost . ? — Thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. <* John i. 1. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. Isa. ix. 6. For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given ; and the government shall be upon his shoulder; and his name shall be called Won- derful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting leather, The Prince of Peace. John ii. 24, 25. But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men, and need- ed not that any should testify of man : for he knew what was in man. 1 Cor. ii. 10, 11. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit : for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him ? Even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. Heb. ix. 14. How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works, to serve the living God ? r Col. i. 16. For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether tkcy bt thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers; all things were created by him, and for him. Gen. i. 2. And the earth was without form, and void ; and darkness was upon the face of the deep : and the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the wat'-.is. Job xxvi. 13. Psal. civ. 30. and John i. 3. » Mat xxviii. 19. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. 2 Cor. xiii. 14. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. 1 Eph. l. 11. In whom also we have obtained an inheri • 146 THE LARGER CATECHISM. eternity, he hath, for his own glory, unchangeably fore-ordained whatsoever comes to pass in time v 5 especially concerning angels and men. Q. 13. What hath God especially decreed concern ing angels and men ? A. God, by an eternal and immutable decree, out of his mere love, for the praise of his glorious grace, to be manifested in due time, hath elected some angels to glory w ; and, in Christ, hath cho- sen some men to eternal life, and the means there- of x , and also, according to his sovereign powei, and the unsearchable counsel of his own will tance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things, after the counsel of his own will. Rom. ix. 15, 18. For he saith to Moses, I will* have mercy on whom ] will have mercy, and 1 will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. — Therefore hath hf mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth. Rom. xi. 33. v Eph. i. 4, 11. According as he hath chosen us in him, be- fore the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love. Rom. ix. 22, 23. What if God, willing to shew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much long-suffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction ; and that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory ? Psal. xxxiii. 11. The counsel of the Lord stand- eth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations. w 1 Tim. v. 21. I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels. * Eph. i. 4, 5, 6. According as he hath chosen us in him, (viz. Christ) before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy, and without blame before him in love : having pre destinated us, unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ, to himself, — To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the Beloved. 2 Thess. ii. 13, 14. But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation, through sanctification of the Spirit, and belief of the truth. 1 Pet. i. 2. THK LARGER CATECHISM. 147 (whereby he extendeth or withholdeth favour as he pleaseth) hath passed by, and fore-ordained the rest to dishonour and wrath, to be for their sin in- flicted, to the praise of the glory of his justice*'. Q. 14. How doth God execute his decrees? A. God executeth his decrees in the works ot creation and providence ; according to his infalli- ble fore-knowledge, and the free and immutable counsel of his own will*. Q. 15. What is the work of creation ? A. The work of creation is that wherein God did in the beginning, by the word of his power, make of nothing, the world and all things therein for himself, within the space of six days, and all very good a . Q. 1 6. How did God create angels ? J Rom. ix. 17, 18, 21, 22. For the Scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth. Therefore hath he mer- cy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he harden - eth. — Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dis- honour? Jude 4. For there are certain men crept in una- wares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. Mat. xi. 25, 26. 2 Tim. ii. 20. 2 Eph. i. 11. In whom also we have obtained an inheri- tance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will. a Gen. 1st chap. Heb. xi. 3. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God , so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear Prov. xvi. 4. The Lord hath made all things for himself ; yea, even the wicked for the day of evil. Rev. iv. 11. 13* 143 THE LARGER CATECHISM. A. God created all the angels b spirits , immor- tal^ holy e , excelling in knowledge f , mighty in power 2 ; to execute his commandments, and to praise his name h , yet subject to change'. Q. 1 7. How did God create man ? A. After God had made all other creatures, he created man, male and female k ; formed the body of the man of the dust of the ground 1 , and the wo- man of the rib of the man m ; endued them with b Col. i. 16. For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers ; all things were created by him, and for him. e Psal. civ. 4. Who maketh his angels spirits ; his ministers a flaming fire. d Mat. xxii. 30. For in the resurrection they neither mar- ry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven. e Mat. xxv. 31. When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory. f 2 Sam. xiv. 17. As an angel of God, so is my lord the king, to discern good and bad. Mat. xxiv. 36. £ 2 Thess. i. 7. And to you who are troubled, rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven, with his mighty angels. h Psal. ciii. 20, 21. Bless the Lord, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word. Bless ye the Lord, all ye his hosts ; ye mi- nisters of his, that do his pleasure. ' 2 Pet. ii. 4. For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains o\ darkness, to be reserved unto judgment. k Gen. i. 27. So God created man in his own image : in the image of God created he him ; male and female created be them. 1 Gen. ii. 7. And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground. m Gen. ii. 22. And the rib, which the Lord God had takep from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. THE LARGER CATECHISM, M9 living, reasonable, and immortal souls"; made them after his own image , in knowledge^ righ- sness and holiness*, having the law of God written in their hearts'", and power to fulfil it\ with dominion over the creatures' ; vet subject to fall v . (^. 18. What arc GocVs works of providence ? A. God's works of providence are his most holy"", wise x , and powerful preserving 7 , and go- n Gen. ii. 7. And the Lord God formed man of the dust oJ the ground, at.d breathed into his nostrils the breath of life ; and man became a living soul. See Job xxxv. 11. Eccl. xii. 7. Mat. x. 28. Luke xxiii. 43. Gen. i. 2T. So God created man in his own image : in the ima»e of God created he him. p Col.~ hi. 10. q Eph. iv. 24. r Rom. ii. 14, 15. For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves ; which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accu sing or else excusing one another. * Eccl. vii. 29. God hath made man upright, " Gen. i. 28. ■ Gen. iii. 6. Eccl. vii. 29. w Psal. cxlv. 17. The Lord is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works. 1 Pud. civ. 24. O Lord, how manifold are thy works ! in wisdom hast thou made them all. Isa. xxviii. 29. This also cometh forth from the Lord of hosts, which is wonderful in counsel, and excellent in working. J Hcb. i. 3. Who, being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power. 150 THE LARGER CATECHISM. verning all his creatures 7 - ; ordering them, and all their actions*, to his own glory b . Q. 19. What is God^s providence toward the angels ? A. God by his providence permitted some of the angels, wilfully and irrecoverably, to fall into sin and damnation , limiting and ordering that, and all their sins, to his own glory J ; and established the rest in holiness and happiness e ; employing them all f , at his pleasure, in the administrations of his power, mercy, and justice*. Q. 20. What was the providence of God tozoard man in the estate in which he was created? z Psal. ciii. 1 9. The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens ; and his kingdom ruleth over all. a Mat. x. 29, 30. Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Fa- ther. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Gen. xlv. 7. And God sent me before you, to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deli- verance. b Rom. xi. 36. For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things : to whom be glory for ever. Amen. Isa. lxiii. 14. So didst thou lead thy people, to make thyself a glorious name. c Jude 6. And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains, under darkness, unto the judgment of the great day. 2 Pet. ii 4. John viii. 44. d Job. i 12. And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold, all lhat he hath is in thy power ; only upon himself put not forth thy hand. Luke x. 17. Mat. viii. 31. * 1 Tim. v. 21. I charge thee before God, and the Lord Je- sus Christ, and the elect angels. Mark viii. 38. Heb. xii. 22- f Psal. civ. 4. Who maketh his angels spirits ; his ministers a flaming fire. e Heb. i. 14. Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation ? 2 King* xi*. 35. THE LARGER CATECHISM. 151 A. The providence of God toward man in the estate in which he was created, was, the placing him in paradise, appointing him to dress it, giving him liberty to eat of the fruit of the earth 11 , putting the creatures under his dominion", and ordaining marriage for his help* ; affording him communion with himself 1 , instituting the Sabbath™, entering into a covenant of life with him, upon condition of personal, perfect, and perpetual obedience", of which the tree of life was a pledge ; and forbid- ding to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, upon the pain of death . Q. 21. Did man continue in that estate wherein God at first created him ? A. Our first parents, being left to the freedom of their own will, through the temptation of Satan, transgressed the commandment of God, in eating the forbidden fruit, and thereby fell from the estate of innocency wherein they were created q . h Gen. ii. 8, 15, 16. * Gen. i. 23. k Gen. ii. 18. And the Lord God said, // is not good that the man should be alone ; I will make him a help meet for him. 1 Gen. i. 27, 28. m Gen. ii. 3. And God blessed the seventh day, and sancti- fied it ; because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made. . n Horn. v. 14. Adam — who is the figure of him that was to come. Gal. iii. 12. And the law is not of faith : but, the man that doeth them shall live in them. Rom. x. 5. Gal. iii. 10. 1 Cor. xv. 22, 47. Hos. vi. 7. ° Gen. ii. 9. And out of the ground made the Lord God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food : the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil. p Gen. ii. 17. But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it : for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. o Gen. iii. 6, 7, 8, 13. And when the woman saw that the 152 THE LARGER CATECHISM. Q. 22. Did all mankind fall in that Jirst trans* gression? A. The covenant being made with Adam, as a public person, not for himself only, but for his pos- terity ; all mankind descending from him by ordi- nary generation 1 ", sinned in* him and fell with him in that first transgression^ Q. 23. Into what estate did the fall bring mankind? A. The fall brought mankind into an estate of sin and misery 1 . Q. 24. What is sin? A* Sin is any want of conformity unto, or trans- gression of any law of God, given as a rule to the reasonable creature v . tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise ; she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat ; and gave also unto her husband with her, and he did eat. — And they knew that they were naked. — And Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden. — And the Lord God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done ? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. 2 Cor. xi. 3. Eccl. vii. 29. r Acts xvii. 26. And hath made of one blood all nations of men. • Gen. ii. 17. But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it ; for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die, Compared w r ith Rom. v. 12 to 20 verse, and with 1 Cor. xv. 21 ; 22. 1 Rorn. v. 12. Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin ; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned. Gal. iii. 10. For as many as are ol the works of the law, are under the curse : for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all tilings which are written in the book of the law to do them. y Rom. iii. 23. A U have sinned and come short of the glory of God. 1 John iii i. Sin is the transgression of the law Gal. iii. 10—12. THE LARGER CATECHISM. 153 Q. 25. Wherein consists the sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fill? A. The sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell, consisteth in the guilt of Adam's first sin w , die want of that righteousness wherein he was created, and the corruption of his nature, whereby he is utterly indisposed, disabled, and made oppo- site unto all that is spiritually good, and wholly in- clined to all evil, and that continually* ; which is commonly called original sin, and from which do proceed all actual transgressions 5 ". Q. 26. How is original sin conveyed from our first parents unto their posterity ? A, Original sin is conveyed from our first pa- rents unto their posterity by natural generation, w Rom. v. 12, 19. Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin ; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned. — By one man's disobedience many were made sinners. 1 Cor. xv. 22. x Rom. v. 6. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. Rom. iii. 10 to 20. As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one : there ih none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become un- profitable ; there is none that doeth good, no, not one, &c. Eph. ii. 1, 2, 3. And you hath he quickened, who were dead in tres- passes and sins, &c. Rom. viii. 7, 8. Because the carnal mind u enmity against God ; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the tlesh, cannot please God. Gen. vi. 5. And God saw that the wick- edness of man teas great in the earth, and that every imagina- tion of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. y James i. 14, 15. But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then, when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin; and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. Mat. xv. 19. For out of the seart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornication*, .hefts, false witness, blasphemies. 154 THE LARGER CATECHISM. so as all that proceed from them in that way, are* conceived and born in sin z . Q. 27. What misery did the fall bring upon wan- kind ? A. The fall brought upon mankind the loss of communion with God a , his displeasure and curse , so as we are by nature children of wrath b , bond slaves to Satan , and justly liable to all punishments in this world and that which is to come d . Q. 28. What are the punishments of sin in this worldf A. The punishments of sin in this world, are either inward ; as blindness of mind e , a reprobate z Psal. li. 5. Behold, I was shapen in iniquity ; and in sin did my mother conceive me. Job xiv. 4. Who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean? not one. Job xv. 14. What is man, that he should be clean? and he which is born of a woman, that he should be righteous? John iii. 6. That which is born of the flesh, is flesh. a Gen. iii. 8, 24. And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day : and Adam and tiis wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden. — So he drove out the man ; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden, cherubims, and a flaming sword, which turned every way, to keep the ivay of the tree of life. b Eph. ii. 2, 3. Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of diso- bedience : among whom also we all had our conversation in times past, in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the desh, and of the mind ; and were by nature the children ol wrath, even as others. c 2 Tim. ii. 26. And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at hi9 will Luke xi. 21, 22. Heb. ii. 14. d Rom. vi. 23. The wages of sin is death. Rom. v. 14. Gen. ii. 17. e Eph. iv. 18. Having; the understanding darkened, being THE LARGER CATECHISM. 155 sense f , strong delusions 5 , hardness of heart'', hor- ror of conscience', and vile affections 15 : Or out- ward, as the curse of God upon the creatures for oursakes 1 ; and all other evils that befall us in our bodies, names, estates, relations, and employ- ments'" ; together with death itself". Q. 29. What are the punishments of sin in the 700 rid to come ? A. The punishments of sin in the world to come, are, everlasting separation from the com- fortable presence of God, and most grievous tor- alienated from the life of God, through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart. f Rom. i. 28. Even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient. £ 2 Thess. ii. 11. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie. h Rom. ii. 5. But after thy hardness and impenitent heart, treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath, and revelation of the righteous judgment of God. » )sa. xxxiii. 14. The sinners in Zion are afraid ; Tearful- ness hath surprised the hypocrites. Who among us shall dwell with the devouring fire ? Who amongst us shall dwell with everlasting burnings? Gen. iv. 13, 14. Mat. xxvii. 4. Heb. x. 27. k Rom. i. 26. For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections. 1 Gen. iii. 17. Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it, cursed is the ground for thy sake ; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life. m Deut. xxviii. 15. to the end. If thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God — all these curses shall come upon thee : — Cursed shalt thou be in the city, &c. D Rom. vi. 21, 23. What fruit had ye then in those tilings whereof ye are now ashamed ? for the end of those things & death. — The wages of sin is death. 14 156 THE LARGER CATECHISM, ments in soul and body, without intermission, in hell fire for ever . Q. 30. Doth God leave all mankind to perish in the estate of sin and misery ? A. God doth not leave all men to perish in the estate of sin and misery p , into which they fell by the breach of the first covenant, commonly called the covenant of works q ; but of his mere love and mercy delivereth his elect out of it, and bringeth them into an estate of salvation by the second co- venant, commonly called the covenant of grace 1 ", Q. 31. With 7vhom was the covenant of grace made ? 2 Thess. i. 9. Who shall be punished with everlasting de- struction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power. Mark ix. 43, 44. To go into hell, — where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. Luke xvi. 24, 26. Send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue ; for I am tormented in this flame. — Between us and you there is a great gulf fixed : so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot ; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence. Mat. xxv. 41, 46. Rev. xiv. 11. John iii. 36. p 1 Thess. v. 9. For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ. irth ? A. Christ humbled himself in his conception and birth, in that, being from all eternity the Son of God in the bosom of the Father, he was plea- sed in the fulness of time to become the son of man, made of a woman of low estate, and to be born of her, with divers circumstances of more than ordinary abasement 1 . Q. 48. How did Christ humble himself in his life ? A. Christ humbled himself in his life, by sub- jecting himself to the law v , which he perfectly fulfilled^, and by conflicting with the indignities oi • Phil. ii. 6, 7, 8. Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God ; but made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men; and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 2 Cor. viii. 9. For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. Luke i. 31. Acts ii. 24. * John i. 14, 18. The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us. — The only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Fa- ther. Luke ii. 7. And she brought forth her first-born son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger. T Gal. iv. 4. God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law. w Mat. v. 17. Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets : I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. Roin. t. 19. 15 168 THE LARGER CATECHISM. the world*, temptations of Satan?, and infirmities in his flesh ; whether common to the nature cf man, or particularly accompanying that his low condition 2 . Q. 49. How did Christ humble himself in his death? A. Christ humbled himself in his death, in that having been betrayed by Judas*, forsaken by his disciples b , scorned and rejected by the world c , condemned by Pilate, and tormented by his perse- cutors'*; having also conflicted with the terrors of death and the powers of darkness, felt and borne the weight of God's wrath e , he laid down his life an offering for sin f , enduring the painful, shame- ful, and cursed death of the cross^. x Psal. xxii. 6. But I am a worm, and no man ; a reproach of men, and despised of the people. Isa. liii. 2, 3. Heb. xii. 2, 3. y Mat. iv. 1 to 12. Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness, to be tempted of the devil, &c. Luke iv 1 to 14. 2 Heb. ii. 17, 18. Wherefore in all things it behooved him to be made like unto his brethren — For in that he himself hath suffered, being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted. Heb. iv. 15. Isa. lii. 13, 14. a Mat. xxvii. 4. L Mat. xxvi. 56. Then all the disciples forsook him, and fled. c Isa. liii. 3. He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and we hid as it were our faces from him : he was despised, and we esteemed him not. d Mat. xxvii. 26. And when he had scourged Jesus, he de- livered him to be crucified. John xix. 34. Luke xxii. 63, 64. e Luke xxii. 44. And being in an agony, he prayed more earnestly : and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. Mat. xxvii. 46. And about the ninth hour, Jesus cried with a loud voice — Eli, Eli, lama sa bachthani ? — My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me ? Rom. viii. 32. ( Isa. liii. 10. Thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin. * Phil. ii. 8. And being found in fashion as a man, he hum* THE LARGER CATECHISM. 1 CO Q. 50. Wherein consisted Christ's humiliation af- ar his death? A. Christ's humiliation after his death, consisted in his being buried h , and continuing in the state of the dead, and under the power of death till the third day 1 , which hath been otherwise expressed in these words. He descended into hell. Q. 51. What was the. estate of Christ's exaltation? A* The estate of Christ's exaltation compre- hended his resurrection*, ascension 1 , sitting at the right-hand of the Father™, and his coming again to judge the world". Q. 52. How zvas Christ exalted in his resurrection? A. Christ was exalted in his resurrection, in that, not having seen corruption in death (of which it was not possible for him to be held ) and having the very same body in which he suffered, with the bled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Heb. xii. 2. Gal. iii. 13. * 1 Cor. xv. 3, 4. • * Mat. xii. 40. For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. Psal. xvi. 10. compared with Acts ii. 24, 25, 26. Rom. vi. 9. k 1 Cor. xv. 4. And that he rose again the third day, ac- cording to the Scriptures. 1 Mark xvi. 19. So then, after the Lord had spoken unto thorn, he was received up into heaven. m Eph. i. 20. And set him at his own right-hand. n Acts i. 11. This same Jesus, which is taken up from you mto heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven. Acts xvii. 31. Acts ii.24. Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death : because i f was not possible that he should be holuen of it. Psal. xvi. 10. For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell ; noither wilt thou suffer th) Holy One to see corruption. 170 THE LARGER CATECHISM. essential properties thereof?, (but without morta- lity and other common infirmities belonging to this life) really united to his soul q , he rose again from the dead the third day by his own power 1 " ; where by he declared himself to be the Son of God s , to have satisfied divine justice 1 , to have vanquished death, and him that had the power of it v , and to be Lord of quick and dead w . All which he did as a public person x , the head of his church y , for their justification 2 , quickening in grace a , sup* P Luke xxiv. 39. Behold my hands and my feet, that, it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have. i Rev. i. J8. I am he that liveth, and was dead; and be- hold, I am alive for evermore ; Amen : and have the keys of hell and of death. r John x. 18. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. 1 have power to lay it down, and I have power U take it again. 8 Rom. i. 4. And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead. 1 Rom. viii. 34. Who is he that condemneth ? it is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right-hand of God. v Heb. ii. 14. — That through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil. w Rom. xiv. 9. For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living* x 1 Cor. xv. 21, 22. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. f Eph. i. 22, 23. — And gave him to be the head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all. Col. i. 18. z Rom. iv. 25. Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification. a Eph. ii. 5, 6. Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ. Col. ii. 12. THE LARGER CATECHISM. 171 port against enemies' 1 , and to assure them of their resurrection from the dead at the last day . Q. 53. FIozv was Christ exalted in his ascension ? A. Christ was exalted in his ascension, in that having, after his resurrection, often appeared un- to, and conversed with his apostles, speaking to them of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God 1 , and giving them commission to preach the Gospel to all nations e ; forty days after his resur- rection, he, in our nature, and as our head f , tri- umphing over enemies?, visibly went up into the highest heavens, there to receive gifts for men h , to raise up our affections thither', and to prepare a b 1 Cor. xv. 25, 26. For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. c 1 Cor. xv. 20. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the first-fruits of them that slept. d Acts i. 2, 3. Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen : to whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion, by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God. e Mat. xxviii. 19, 20. Go ye therefore and teach all nations. Mark xvi. 15. f Heb. vi. 20. Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made a high priest for ever. See also letter d . B Eph. iv. 8. Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, ana ga\e gifts unto men. b Acts i. 9. — While they beheld, he was taken up ; and 9 cloud received him out of their sight. Psal. lxviii. 18. Thou hast ascended on high: — thou hast received gifts for men; yea, for the rebellious also, that the Lord God might dwell among them. 1 Col. iii. 1, 2. If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right-hand of God, &c. 15* 172 THE LARGER CATECHISM. place for us k , where himself is and shall continue till his second coming at the end of the world 1 . Q. 54. How is Christ exalted in his sitting at the right-hand of God. 9 A. Christ is exalted in his sitting at the right- hand of God, in that as God-man he is advanced to the highest favour with God the Father' 11 , with all fulness of joy", glory , and power over all things in heaven and earth p ; and doth gather and defend his church, and subdue their enemies ; fur- nisheth his ministers and people with gifts and graces' 1 , and maketh intercession for them r . Q. 55. How doth Christ make intercession? A. Christ maketh intercession, by his appearing in our nature continually before the Father in hea- ven', in the merit of his obedience and sacrifice on earth 1 ; declaring his will to have it applied tc all believers v ; answering all accusations againsi k John xiv. 2. — I go to prepare a place for you. 1 Acts iii. 21. Whom the heaven must receive, until the times of restitution of all things. m Phil. ii. 9. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name. Q Acts ii. 28. — Thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance. Compared with Psal. xvi. 11. John xvii. 5. And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self, with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. p Eph. i. 22. And hath put all things under his feet, and ^ave him to be the head over all things to the church. 1 Pet. iii. 22. TECH ISM. 179 by his word and Spirit 1 ; savingly enlightening their minds"*, renewing and powerfully determining their wills", so as they (although in themselves dead in sin) are hereby made willing and able, freely to answer his call, and to accept and embrace the grace offered and conveyed therein . Q. 68, Are the elect only effectually called? A. All the elect, and they only, are effectuall called 1 ' ; although others may be and often are out- wardly called by the ministry of the word^, and have some common operations of the Spirif , who, 1 2 Cor. v. 20. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us ; we pray#o?4 in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled, to God. 2 Cor. vi. 2. (Behold, now is the accepted time ; behold, now is the day of salvation.) John vi. 44. No man can come to me, except the Father, who hath sent me, draw him ; and I will raise him up at the last day. 2 Thess. ii. 13, 14. But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation, through eanctification of the Spirit, and belief of the truth ; whereunto he called you by our Gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. m Acts xxvi. 18. To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. m n Ezek. xi. 19. — And I will put a new spirit within you : and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them a heart of flesh. Ezek. xxxvi. 26", 27. John vi. 45- — And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me. Phil. ii. 13. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Deut. xxx. 6. Eph. ii. 5. p Acts xiii. 48. — And as many as were ordained to eternal life, believed. q Mat. xxii. 14. For many are called, but few are chosen. r Mat. xiii. 20, 21. But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word — yet hath he not 16 180 THE LARGER CATECHISM. for their wilful neglect and contempt of the grace offered to them, being justly left in their unbelief, do never truly come to Jesus Christ 3 . Q. 69. What is the communion in grace, which the members of the invisible church have zvith Christ. 9 A. The communion in grace, which the mem- bers of the invisible church have with Christ, is their partaking of the virtue of his mediation, in their justification 1 , adoption v , sanctification, and whatever else in this life manifests their union with him w . Q. 70. What is justification ? A. Justification is an act of God's free grace unto sinners x , in which he pardoneth all their sin, toot in himself, but dureth V a while ; for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is of- fended. Heb. vi. 4, 5, 6. s Psal. lxxxi. 11, 12. But my people would not hearken to my voice ; and Israel would none of me. So I gave them up unto their own hearts' lust ; and they walked in their own counsels. John xii. 38, 39, 40. That the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spake, Lord, who hath be- lieved our report ? and to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed? Therefore they could not believe, because that Esaias said again, He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart ; that they should not see with their eyes, nor un- derstand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them. Acts xxviii. 25, 26, 27. John vi. 64, 65. Prov. i. 24 to 32. Psalm xcv. 9 to the end. 1 Rom. viii. 30. Moreover, whom he did predestinate, them he also called; and whom he called, them he also justified; and whom he justified, them he also glorified. v Eph. i. 5. Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself. w 1 Cor. i. 30. But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who oi God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctifi- cation, and redemption. r Rom. iii. 22, 24, 25. Even the righteousness of God, xchieh. is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all, and upon all them that be* THE LARGER CATECHISM. 131 accepteth and accounteth their persons righteous ID his sight y ; not for any thing wrought in them, or done by them 7 , but only for the perfect obedi- ence and full satisfaction of Christ, by God impu- ted to them a , and received by faith alone b . Q. 71. How is justification an act of God' 1 s free grace ? A. Although Christ by his obedience and death, did make a proper, real, and full satisfaction to God's justice in the behalf of them that are jus- lieve ; for there is no difference : — being justified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, &c. Rom. it. 5. > 2 Cor. v. 19, 21. To wit, that God was in Christ, recon- ciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them. — For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin ; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. Rom. iii. 22, 24, 25. Even the righteousness of God, which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto alk and upon all them that be- lieve, &c. \ 2 Eph. i. 6, 7. — Wherein he hath made us accepted in the Beloved : in whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace. Rom. iii. 28. Therefore we conclude, that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. a Rom. iii. 24, 25. Being justified freely by his gra.ee, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus : Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation, through faith in his blood. Rom. v. 17, 18, 19. — Much more they which receive abun dance of grace, and of the gift of righteousness, shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ. — So by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. Rom. iv. 6, 7, 8. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man unto whom God irn- puteth righteousness without works, &c. b Rom. v. 1. Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God. Acts x. 43. To him give all the prophets 'vitness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. Gal. ii. 16. Phil. iii. 9. Rom. iii. 25, 26. 182 THE LARGER CATECHISM. tified c : yet in as much as God accepieth the satisfaction from a surety, which he might have demanded of them ; and did provide this surety, his only Son d 5 imputing his righteousness to them e ? and requiring nothing of them for their justifica- tion but faith f , which also is his gift*, their justifi- ation is to them of free grace h . Q. 72. What is justifying faith ? A. Justifying faith is a saving grace 1 , wrought c Mat. xx. 28. Even as the Son of man came not to be mi- nistered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom (or price of redemption) for many. 1 Tim. ii. 6. 1 Pet. i. 18, 19. Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, — but with the pre- cious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and with- out spot. Rom. v. 8, 9, 10. — While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us, &c. d Dan. ix. 24, 26. Isa. liii. 6, 10, 11, 12.— And the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. — Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise him ; he hath put him to grief : when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in his hand. He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied. — Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong ; because he hath poured out his soul unto death : and he was numbered with the transgressors ; and he bare the sin of many. Heb. vii. 22. By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament. Rom. viii. 32. He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? e 2 Cor. v. 21. — That we might be made the righteousness of God in him. Rom. iv. 11. 1 Cor. i. 30. f Rom. iii. 24, 25. — Whom God hath set forth to be a propi- tiation, through faith in his blood. Acts xvi. 31. £ Eph. ii. 8. For by grace are ye saved, through faith ; and that not of yourselves : it is the gift of God. b Eph. i. 7. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace. 1 Heb. x 39. But we are not of them who draw back unto THE LARGER CATECHISM. IBS in the heart of a sinner by the Spirit 1 and word of God 1 ; whereby he, being convinced of his sin and misery, and of the disability in himself and all other creatures to recover him out of his lo^t con- dition" 1 , not only assenteth to the truth of the pro- mise of the Gospel 11 , but receivelh and resteth upon Christ and his righteousness therein held forth, for pardon of sin , and for the accepting and accounting of his person righteous in the sight of God for salvation?. Q. 13. How doth faith justify a sinner in the sight of God? A. Faith justifies a sinner in the sight of God, not because of those other graces which do always accompany it, or of good works that are the fruits of it * ; nor as if the grace of faith, or any act there- perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul. k 2 Cor. iv. 13. We having the same spirit of faith. Eph. i. 17, 13, 19. That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Fa- ther of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and re- velation in the knowledge of him, Sec. 1 Rom. x. 14, 17. — So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Rom. i. 16. m John xvi. 8, 9. And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment : of sin, because they believe not on me. Acts xvi. 30. — Sirs, what must I do to I e saved? Acts ii. 37. Eph. ii. 1. Acts iv. 12. Rom. vii. 9. n Eph. i. 13. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the Gospel of your salvation. Acts x. 43. To him give all the prophets witness, that* through his name, whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. Acts xvi. 31. John i. 12. p Phil. iii. 9. And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith. Acts xv. 11. But we believe that, through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, we shall be saved, even as they. q Gal. iii. 11 But that no man is justified by the law in 184 THE LARGER CATECHISM. of, were imputed to him for his justification 1 "; but only as it is an instrument, by which he receiveth and applieth Christ and his righteousness 8 . Q. 74. What is adoption? A. Adoption is an act of the free grace of God 1 , in and for his only Son Jesus Christ v , whereby all those that are justified are received into the num- ber of his children*, have his name put upon them*, the Spirit of his Son given to them>, are under his fatherly care and dispensations 2 , admitted to all the liberties and privileges of the sons of God, the sight of God, it is evident : for, The just shall live by faith. Rom. iii. 28. Therefore we conclude, that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. r Rom. iv. 5. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righ- teousness. Compared with Rom. x. 10. s John i. 12. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God. Phil. iii. 9. * 1 John iii. 1. Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God! v Eph. i. 5. Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good plea- sure of his will. Gal. iv. 4, 5. But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. w John i. 12. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God. x Rev. iii. 12. — And / will write upon him my new name. Cor. vi. 18. y Gal. iv. 6. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. z Psal. ciii. 13. Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. Prov. xiv. 26. In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence ; and his children shall have a nlace of refuge. Mat. vi. 32. — For your heavenly Father Knoweth that ye have need of all these things. THE LARGER CATECHISM. 185 made heirs of all the promises, and fellow-l eirs with Christ in glory 8 . Q. 15. What is sanctijication ? A. Sanctitication is a work of God^s grace, whereby they, whom God hath, before the foun- dation of the world, chosen to be holy, arc, in time, lb rough the powerful operation of his Spirit* 1 , ap- plying the death and resurrection of Christ unto them' , renewed in their whole man after the image of God ,l ; having the seeds of repentance unto life, and all other saving graces, put into their hearts e , and those graces so stirred up, increased and *■ Rom. viii. 17. And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ : if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. Heb. vi. 12. b Eph. i. 4. According as he hath chosen us in him, before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and with- out blame before him in love : 1 Cor. vi. 11. And such were some of you : but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. 2 Thess. ii. 13. But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation, through sanctifiration of the Spirit, and belief of the truth. c Rom. vi. 4, 5, 6. Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death ; that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, ev T en so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection; &c. Phil. iii. 10. d Eph. iv. 23, 24. And be renewed in the spirit of your mind ; and that ye put on the new man, which aftarr God is created in righteousness and true holiness. e Acts xi. 18. When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life. 1 John iii. 9. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin ; for his seed re- maineth in him ; and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. 186 THE LARGER CATECHISM, strengthened 1 ", as that they more and more die unto sin, and rise unto newness of lifc g . Q. 76. What is repentance unto life ? A. Repentance unto life is a saving gr'ace h , wrought in the heart of a sinner by the Spirit 1 and word of God k , whereby out of the sight and sense, not only of the danger 1 , but also of the filthiness f Jude 20. But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost. Eph. iii. 16, 17, 18. That he would grant you, according to <£he riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man ; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith ; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints, &c. Col. i. 10, 11. That ye might walk wor- thy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all pa- tience and long-suffering with joyfulness. e Rom. vi. 4, 6, 14. — Even so we also should walk in new- ness of life. — Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. — For sin shall not have dominion over you : for ye are not under the law, but under grace. h 2 Tim. ii. 25. — If God peradventure will give them repen- tance to the acknowledging of the truth. 1 Zech. xii. 10. I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the Spirit of grace and oi supplications ; and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him. k Acts xi. 18, 20, 21. — And some of them were men of Cy- prus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus. And the hand of the Lord was with them : and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord. Psalm xix. 7— rl4. Acts ii. 37. 1 Ezek. xviii. 30, 32. — Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions ; so iniquity shall not be your ruin. Turn — and live ye. Luke xv. 17, 18. How many hired ser rants of my father's have bread enough, and to spare, and f perish with hunger ! &c. Hos. ii. 6, 7. THE LARGER CATECHISM. 187 and odiousness of his sins m , and upon the appre- hension of God's mercy in Christ, to such as are penitent", he so grieves for°, and hates his sins p , as that he turns from them all to God 4 , purposing and endeavouring constantly to walk with him in all the ways of new obedience 1 ". m Ezek. xxxvi. 31. Then shall ye remember your own evil., ways, and your doings that were not good, and shall loathe yourselves in your own sight, for your iniquities, and for your abominations. Ezek. xvi. 61, 63. Then thou shalt remember thy ways, and be ashamed. — That thou mayest remember, and be confounded, and never open thy mouth any more because of thy shame. Isa. xxx. 22. D Psal. cxxx. 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. If thou Lord, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand ? But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayctbe feared, &c. Joel ii. 12, 13. — Rend your heart, and not you ■ garments, and turn unto the Lord your God : for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil. Zee. xii. 10. ° Jer. xxxi. 18, 19. I have surely heard Ephraim bemoan- ing himself thus : Thou hast chastised me, and I was chastised, as a bullock unaccustomed to the yoke : turn thou me, and I bhall be turned ; for thou art the Lord my God. Surely after that I was turned, I repented ; and after that I was instructed, I smote upon my thigh : I was ashamed, yea, even confounded, because I did bear the reproach of my youth. p 2 Cor. vii. 11 For behold, this self same thing that ye iorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge ! i Acts xxvi. 18. To open their eyes ; and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God. Ezek. xiv. 6. — Repent, and turn yourselves from your idols ; and turn away your faces from all your abominations. 1 Kings viii. 47, 48. — If they shall bethink themselves — and so return unto thee with all their heart, and with all their soul. 1 Sam. vii. 3. r Psal. cxix. 59, 128. I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto thy testimonies. Therefore I esteem all thy precepti concerning all things to be right ; and I hate every false way Luke i. 6. 188 THE LARGER CATECHISM. Q. 77. Wherein do justification and sanctification differ ? A. Although sanctification be inseparably joined with justification 53 , yet they differ, in that, God in justification, imputeth the righteousness of Christ 1 ; in sanctification, his Spirit infuseth grace, and ena- bleth to the exercise thereof v ; in the former, sin is pardoned^ ; in the other, it is subdued x ; the one doth equally free all believers from the revenging wrath of God, and that perfectly in this life, that they never fall into condemnation ; the other is s 1 Cor. 6, 11. And such were some of you : but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. 1 Cor. i. 30, But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption, 1 Rom. iv. 6, 8. Even as David also describeth the bles- sedness of the man unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works. — Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. 2 Cor. v. 21. Rom. iii. 24. v Ezek. xxxvi. 27. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them. w Rom. iii. 24, 25. Being justified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus ; whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation, through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins. x Rom. vi. 6, 14. Knowing this, that our old man is cruci- fied with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. — For sin shall not have do- minion over you : for ye are not under the law, but under grace. y Rom. viii. 1, 33, 34. There is therefore now no condem- nation to them which are in Christ Jesus. — Who shall lay an} thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth Who is he that condemneth ? THE LARGER CATECHISM. 189 neither equal in all*, nor in this life perfect in any', but growing up to perfection**. Q. 78. lVhe?ice ariseth the imperfection of sancti- ficutiun in believers. 9 A. The imperfection of sanctincation in belie- vers ariseth from the remnants of sin abiding in every part of them, and the perpetual lustings of the flesh against the Spirit ; whereby they are often foiled with temptations, and fall into many sins c , are hindered in all their spiritual services d , and x Heb. v. 12, 13, 14. For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as havp need of milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk, is unskilful in the word of righteousness ; for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. 1 John ii. 12, 13, 14. » 1 John i. 8, 10. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. — If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. b 2 Cor. vii. 1. Having therefore these promises, dearly be loved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. Philip, iii. 12, 13, 14. — Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended* but this one thing / do, forgetting those things which are be- hind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark, for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. c Rom. vii. 18, 23. For 1 know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing : for to will is present with me ; but how to perform that which is good, I find not. — But I see another law in my members warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members, d Gal. v. 17. For the flesh lusteth against the spirit — so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. Heb. xii. I. — Let U9 lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily be- set us. 100 THE LARGER CATECHISM. their best works are imperfect and defiled in the sight ofGod e . Q. 79. May not true believers, by reason of their imperfections, and the many temptations and sins they are overtaken with, fall azoay from the state of grace ? A. True believers, by reason of the unchange- able love of God f , and his decree and covenant to give them perseverance^ their inseparable union with Christ* 1 , his continual intercession for them 1 , and the Spirit and seed of God abiding in them k , can neither totally nor finally fall away from the e Isa. lxiv. 6. But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags ; and we all do fade as a .eaf ; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. £xod. xxviii. 38. f Jer. xxxi. 3. — I have loved thee with an everlasting love. John xiii. 1. / s Heb. xiii. 20, 21. — Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect. 2 Sam. xxiii. 5. — Yet he hath made with me an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things, and sure: Isa. iiv. 10. h 1 Cor. i. 8. Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. » Heb. vii. 25. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. Luke xxii. 32. But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not. k 1 John lii. 9. Whosoever is born of God doth not com- mit sin ; for his seed remaineth in him ; and he cannot sin, be- cause he is born of God. 1 John ii. 27. But the anointing, which ye have received of him abideth in you : and ye need not that any man teach you : but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and evec as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. THE LARGER CATECHISM. 191 state of grace 1 , but are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation™. Q. 00. Can true believers be infallibly assured that in the estate of grace* and that they shall therein unto salvation ? A* Such as truly believe in Christ, and endea- vour to walk in all good conscience before him , may. without extraordinary revelation, by faith grounded upon the truth of God's promises, and by the Spirit enabling them to discern in them- selves those graces to which the promises of life are made' 1 , and bearing witness with their spirits 1 Jer. xxxii. 40. And I will make an everlasting covenant with them, that I will not turn away from them, to do them I will put my fear in their hearts, that they shall not depart from me. John x. 23. And I ^ive unto them eternal life ; and they shall never perish, neither shall any pluck them out of my hand. n 1 Pet. i. 5. Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. Phil. i. 6. — He which hath be^un a £oo Tit. i. 16. They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate. Heb. xii. 16. z Rom. i. 30. Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters. a 2 Tim. iii. 2. For men shall be lovers of their ownselves, covetous, Deut. viii. 17. And thou say in thy heart, My power and the might of my hand hath gotten me this wealth. Dan. iv. 30. k Hab. i. 16. Therefore they sacrifice unto their net, and burn incense unto their drag. 1 Psal. xliv. 20, 21. If we have forgotten the name of our God, or stretched out our hands to a strange god : Shall not God search this out? for he knoweth the 9ecrets of the heart. Ezek. viii. 5. to the end of the chapter. — And, behold north- ward at the gate of the altar this image of jealousy in th* entry. — But turn thee yet again, and thou shalt see greater abominations, &c. m 1 Chron. xxviii 9 \nd thou, Solomon my son, Kiio\f THE LARGER CATECHISM. 217 Q. 107. Which is the second commandment ? A. The second commandment is, Thou shall not make unto thee any graven image, or any like- ness of any thi)ig that is in heaven above, or that is i?i the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth : thou shall not bow dozun thyself to them, nor serve them$ for 1 the Lord thy God am a jea- lous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me : and showing mercy unto thou- sajids of them that love me, and keep my command- merits". Q. 103. What are the duties required in the second commandment ? A. The duties required in the second com- mandment are, the receiving, observing, and keep- ing pure and entire, all such religious worship and ordinances as God hath instituted in his word ; particularly prayer and thanksgiving in the name of Christ^ ; the reading, preaching, and hearing of the word q ; the administration and receiving of thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart, and with a willing mind ; for the Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts. ° Exod. xx. 4, 5, 6. Deut. xxxii. 46. — Set your hearts unto all the words which I testify among you this day, which ye shall command your children to observe to do, all the words of this law. Matt. xxviii. 20. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you. 1 Tim. vi. 13, 14. — That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukable, until the ap- pearing of our Lord Jesus Christ. Acts ii. 42. P Phil. iv. 6. Be careful for nothing: but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your re- quests be made known unto God. Eph. v. 20. i Deut. xvii. 18, 19. — That he shall write him a copy of this law iu a book, — and it shall be with him, and he shall read 218 THE LARGER CATECHISM. the sacraments 1 "; church government and disci- pline 5 5 the ministry and maintenance thereof 1 ; religious fasting v ; swearing by the name of God w ; and vowing unto him x : as also the disapproving, therein all the days of his life. Acts xv. 21. For Moses — hath in every city them that preach him, being read in the syna- gogues every Sabbath-day. 2 Tim. iv. 2. Preach the word ; be instant in season, out of season ; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and doctrine. James i. 21, 22. — Re- ceive with meekness the ingrafted word, &c. Acts x. 33. r Matt, xxviii. 19. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. 1 Cor. xi. from the 23d to the 30th verse. For I have received of the Lord, that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus, the same night in which he was betrayed, took bread, &c. s Matt. xvi. 19. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven : and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth, shall be bound in heaven ; and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth, shall be loosed in heaven. And John xx. 23. Matt, xviii. 15, 16, 17. — And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church ; but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as a heathen man and a publican. 1 Cor. v. and chap. xii. 28. 1 Eph. iv. 1 1, 12. And he gave some, apostles ; and some, prophets ; and some, evangelists ; and some, pastors and tea- chers ; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ. 1 Tim. v. 17, 18. Let the elders that rule well, be counted worthy of dou- ble honour, especially they who labour in the word and doc- trine. For the Scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward. 1 Cor. ix. 1 to 15. T Joel ii. 12, 13. Therefore also now, saith the Lord, Turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning, &c. 1 Cor. vii. 5. — That ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer. w Deut. vi. 13 Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name. x Psal. lxxvi. 11. Vow, and pay unto the Lord your God Jsa. xix. 21. Psal. cxvi. 14. 18. THE LAfcGBK CATECHISM. 210 detesting, opposing all false worship 5 "; and, accor- ding to each one^s place and calling, removing it, and all monuments of idolatry 7 . Q. 109. What are the sins forbidden in the se- cond commandment ? A. The sins forbidden in the second command- ment are, all devising 1 , counselling 5 , commanding using 1 , and any wise approving any religious wor ship not instituted by God himself e ; the making any representation of God, of all, or of any of the three Persons, either inwardly in our mind, or outwardly in any kind of image or likeness of any y Acts xvii. 16, 17. Now, while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry. Psal. xvi. 4. Their sorrows shall he multiplied tliai hasten after another god : their drink-offerings of blood will I not offer, nor take up their names into my lips. z Deut.vii. 7. Isa. xxx. 22. a Num. xv. 39. And it shall be unto you for a fringe, that ye may look upon it, and remember all the commemdments of the Lord, and do them ; and that ye seek not after your own heart, and your own eyes, after which ye use to go a whoring. b Deut. xiii.6, 7, 8. If thy brother, the son of thy mother, or thy son, or thy daughter, or the wife of thy bosom, or thy friend, which is as thine own soul, entice thee secretly, saying. Let us go and serve other gods, which thou hast not known, thou, nor thy fathers ; — thou shalt not consent unto him, nor hearken unto him ; neither shall thine eye pity him, neither shalt thou spare, neither shalt thou conceal him. c Hos. v. 11. Ephraim zs oppressed — in judgment, because he willingly walked after the commandment. Micah vi. 16. For the statuses of Omri are kept. d 1 Kings xi. 33. Because that they have forsaken me, and have worshipped Ashtoreth. 1 Kings xii. 33. So he offered upon the altar which he had made in Bethel the fifteenth day of the eighth month, even in the month which he had devised oi bis own heart; and ordained a feast unto the children of Is- rael : and he offered upon the altar, and burnt incense. e Dcut.xii. 30, 31, 32. Take heed to thyself, that thou be not 19* 220 THE LARGER CATECHISM. creature whatsoever 2 ; all worship of it h , or God in it or by it 1 ; the making of any representation oJ feigned deities k , and all worship of them, or service belonging to them 1 ; all superstitious devices™* snared by following them, after that they be destroyed from be- fore thee ; and that thou inquire not after their gods, saying, How did these nations serve their gods ? Even so will I do like- wise. — What thing soever I command you, observe to do it : thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it. s Deut. iv. 15, 16, 17, 18, 19. Take ye therefore good heed unto yourselves, (for ye saw no manner of similitude on the day that the Lord spake unto you in Horeb, out of the midst of the fire,) lest ye corrupt yourselves, and make you a graven image, the similitude of any figure. — Acts xvii. 29. Foras- much then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art, and man's device. Rom. i. 21, 22, 23, 25. — But became vain in their imaginations — and changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, — who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. h Gal. iv. 8. Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods. Dan. iii. 18. 1 Exod. xxxii. 5. And when Aaron saw it, he built an altar before it ; and Aaron made proclamation and said, To-morrow is a feast to the Lord. k Exod. xxxii. 8. — They have made them a molten calf, and have worshipped it, and have sacrificed thereunto, and said, These be thy gods, O Israel, which have brought thee up out of the land of Egypt. 1 1 Kings xviii. 26, 28. And they took the bullock which was given them, and they dressed it, and called on the name of Baal from morning even until noon, saying, O Baal, hear as, &c. Isa. lxv. 11. m Acts xvii. 22. Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars-hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. Col. ii. 21, 22, 23. (Touch not; t'aste not ; handle not ; which all are to perish with the using ;) after the commandments and doctrines of men? Which things have THE LARGER CATECHISM. 221 corrupting the worship of God' 1 , adding to it, or taking from it°, whether invented and taken up of ourselves?, or received by tradition from others', though under the title of antiquity r , cus- tom', devotion 1 , good intent, or any other pre- indeed a shew of wisdom in will-worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body : not in any honour to the satisfying of the tlesh. ■ Mai. i. 7, 8, 14. Ye offer polluted bread upon mine altar. — But cursed be the deceiver, which hath in his flock a male, and voweth, and sacrificeth unto the Lord a corrupt thing; for I am a great King, saith the Lord of hosts, and my name is dreadful among the heathen. ° Deut. iv. 2. Ye shall not add unto the word which I com mand you, neither shall ye diminish aught from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I com- mand you. r PsaL cvi. 39. Thus were they defiled with their own works, and went a whoring with their own inventions. q Mat. xv. 9. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. r 1 Pet. i. 18. Forasmuch as ye know that ye were nnt redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain co wersation received by tradition from your fathers. ! Jer. xliv 17. But we will certainly do whatsoever thing sroeth forth out of our own mouth, to burn incense unto the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink-offerings unto her, as we have done, we, and our fathers, our kings, and our princes, in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jeru salem. 1 Isa. lxv. 3, 4, 5. A people that provoketh me to anger continually to my face ; that sacrificeth in gardens, and burneth incense upon altars of brick ; — which eat swine's Qesh, and broth of abominable things is in their vessels ; which eay, Stand by thyself, come not near to me, for I am holier than thou. These are a smoke in my nose, a fire that burneth all the day. Gal. i. 13, 14. — How that beyond measure I perse- cuted the church of God, and wasted it ; and profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my faUiers. 222 THE LARGER CATECHISM. tence whatsoever* ; simony w , sacrilege x 5 all ne gleet 7 , contempt*, hindering 3 , and opposing the worship and ordinances which God hatii ap- pointed 11 . Q. 110. What are the reasons annexed to the second commandment, the more to enforce it? A. The reasons annexed to the second com- mandment, the more to enforce it, contained in these words, For I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me : and showing mercy unto thousands oj * 1 Sam. xiii. 11, 12. — I forced myself therefore, and offered a burnt-offering. 1 Sam. xv. 21. But the people (said Saul) took of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the chief of the things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice unto the Lord thy God in Gilgal. w Acts viii. 18, 19, 22. And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, &c. * Rom. ii. 22. — Thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou com- mit sacrilege ? Mai. iii. 8. Will a man rob God ? yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? la tithes and offerings. y Exod. iv. 24, 25, 26. And it came to pass by the way in the inn, that the Lord met liim, and sought to kill him, 11 things; not answering again ; not purloining, but showing all good fidelity ; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Sariour in all things. 1 1 Sam. xxvi. 15, 16. — Wherefore then hast thou not kept thy lord the king ? — As the Lord liveth, ye ait worthy to die, because ye have not kept your master, U»e Lord's anointed. 2 Sam. xviii. 3. Esth. vi. 2. r Mat. xxii. 21. Render therefore unto Cesar, the things which are Cesar's. Rom. xiii. 6, 7. — For this cause pay ye tribute also : for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon thii very thing. Render therefore to all their dues : tribute t% whom tribute is due ; custom to whom custom ; fear to whoa fear ; honour to whom honour. 1 Tim. v. 17, 18. Let th elders that rule. 9 ell, be counted worthy of double honour especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. — Thou Bhalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, tli labourer is worthy of his reward. Gal. vi. 6. Gen. xlv. il and xlvii. 12. w Gen. ix. 23. And Sbem and Japheth took a garment, and laid it upon both their shoulders, and went backward, and covered the nakedness of their father : and their facei were backward, and they saw not their father's nakedness. 1 Pet. ii. 18. Prov. xxiii. 22. * Psal. cxxvii. 3, 4, 5. Lo, children are a heritage of the Lord. — Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them : they shall not be ashamed, but 'hey shall speak with the ene- mies in the gate. Prov. xxxi. 23. Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the laod. 21 240 THE LARGER CATECHISM. Q. 128- WJiat are the sins of inferiors against their superiors ? A. The sins of inferiors against their superiors are, all neglect of the duties required toward them y ; envying at z , contempt of % and rebellion 1, against their persons and places d , in their lawful counsels e , commands and corrections f ; cursing, mocking 5 , and all such refractory and scandalous y Mat. xv. 4, 5, 6. — But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me ; and honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition. 2 Num. xi. 28, 29. — And Moses said unto him, Enviest thou for my sake? Would God that all the Lord's people Were prophets. a 1 Sam. viii. 7. For the)' have not rejected thee, but they tave rejected me, that I should not reign over them. Isa. iii. 5. — The child shall behave himself proudly against the ancient, and the base against the honourable. b 2 Sam. xv. from verse 1 to 12. And it came to pass after this, that Absalom prepared him chariots and hor- des, &c c Exod. xxi. 15. And he that smiteth his father, or his mo- ther, shall be surely put to death. «* 1 Sam. x. 27. But the children of Belial said, How shall this man save us ? And they despised him, and brought him Ho presents. e 1 Sam. ii. 25. — Notwithstanding, they hearkened not nnto the voice of their father, because the Lord would slay .hem. f Deut. xxi. 18, 19, 20, 21.— And they shall say unto the riders of his city, This our son is stubborn and rebellious, he tf-ill not obey our voice ; he is a glutton and a drunkard. And all the men of his city shall stone him with stones, that ne die. * Prov. xxx. 11. There is a generation that curseth their father, and doth not bless their mother. Verse 17. The eye that mocketh at his father, and despiseth to obey his mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young eagles ihall eat it. THE LARGER CATECHISM L 2A \ carriage, as proves a shame and dishonour to them and their government 11 . Q. 129. What is required of superiors towards their inferiors ? A. It is required of superiors, according to that power they receive from God, and that re- lation wherein they stand, to love 1 , pray for k , and bless their inferiors 1 ; to instruct" 1 , counsel, and admonish them" ; countenancing , commend- ing 1 ', and rewarding such as do well - ; and dis- countenancing 1 ', reproving, and chastising such h Prov. xix. 26. He that wasteth his father, and chaseth away his mother, is a son that causeth shame, and bringeth reproach. 1 Col. iii. 19. Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them. Tit. ii. 4. k 1 Sam. xii. 23. Moreover, as for me, God forbid that 1 should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you. Job i. 5. 1 1 Kings viii. 55, 56. And he stood, and blessed all the con gregation of Israel with a loud voice, &c. Gen. xlix. 28. m Deut. vi. 6, 7. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thy heart: and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thy house, and when thou w r alkest by the way, and when thou liestdown, and when thou risest up. D Eph. vi. 4. And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath : but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. 1 Pet. iii. 7. Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them ac- cording to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life ; that your prayers be not hindered. p Rom. xiii. 3. For rulers are not a terror to good worl«, but to the evil. — Do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same. 1 Pet. ii. 14.