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Scriptual Catechism
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Catechism
Date
1676
Full Title
A Scriptural Catechism; or, The duty of Man Laid down in express words of Scripture, Chiefly intended For the benefit of the Younger sort. Divided into two Parts: The first containing the chief Principles of our Christian Belief; The second instructing us in our Duty to God and Man, according to the method observed in the Excellent Book, entituled, The whole Duty of Man: To which is added Some Private Devotions in express words of Scripture; with devout Collects for several occasions.
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The original format is octavo.
The original contains contains elements such as change of font,italics,
A Scriptural Catechism; OR, The Whole Duty of Man laid down by way of Question and Answer, in express words of Scripture.
PART I.
Concerning the Chief Principles of our Religion which we are to believe.
Sect. 1. Concerning the Being of God: Of his Attributes and Perfections.
Quest. WHat is the whole Duty which God requires
of man?
of man?
Answ. 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? Fear
God, and keep his Commandments, for this is the whole
duty of man, Mic. 6.8. Eccl. 12.13.
what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and
to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? Fear
God, and keep his Commandments, for this is the whole
duty of man, Mic. 6.8. Eccl. 12.13.
Q. Do you then believe there is a God whom ye should
fear?
fear?
A. Yes, verily there is a God that judgeth in the earth,
Ps. 38.11.
Ps. 38.11.
Q. Do not the works of God declare the being of
God?
God?
A. Yes, for the invisible things of him from the creation
of the World are clearly seen, being understood by the
Rom. 1.20.
of the World are clearly seen, being understood by the
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things that are made, even his eternal Power and Godhead,Rom. 1.20.
Q. Is he not a fool that denies this truth?
A. Yes, the fool hath said in his heart there is no God,
Ps. 14.1.
Ps. 14.1.
Q. Is there no other God but one?
A. No, we know that an Idol is nothing in the World,
and that there is none other God but one.
and that there is none other God but one.
Q. There be none then who can compare with God?
A. No, who is like unto the Lord amongst the Gods?
who is like him, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing
wonders? Exod. 15.11.
who is like him, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing
wonders? Exod. 15.11.
Q. What is God?
A. God is a Spirit, who dwelleth in light, to which no
man can approach; whom no man hath seen, or can see;
whose perfection cannot by searching be found out, Joh. 4.
24. 1 Tim. 6.16. Job 11.7.
man can approach; whom no man hath seen, or can see;
whose perfection cannot by searching be found out, Joh. 4.
24. 1 Tim. 6.16. Job 11.7.
Q. Do you believe that this incomprehensible God is of everlasting
being?
being?
A. Yes, before the mountains were brought forth, or
ever he formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting
to everlasting he is God, Ps 90.2.
ever he formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting
to everlasting he is God, Ps 90.2.
Q. Do you believe that this glorious God is every-where present?
A. Yes, whither shall I go from his spirit, or whither
shall I flee from his presence? If I ascend up into Heaven
he is there, if I make my bed in Hell behold he is there, Psal. 139.7, 8.
shall I flee from his presence? If I ascend up into Heaven
he is there, if I make my bed in Hell behold he is there, Psal. 139.7, 8.
Q. And must he not then know all things?
A. Yes, neither is there any creature that is not manifest
in his sight; but all things are naked and opened unto the
eyes of him with whom we have to do, Heb. 4.13.
in his sight; but all things are naked and opened unto the
eyes of him with whom we have to do, Heb. 4.13.
Q. Do you believe God is unchangable?
A. Yes, with him is no variableness, nor shadow of turning,
Jam. 1.17.
Jam. 1.17.
Q. Do you believe God is Almighty, and can do all things?
A. Yes, with God all things are possible, Mark 10.27.
Q. Is he not also a most holy and glorious God?
A. Yes,holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of Hosts; the
whole earth is full of his glory, Isa. 6.3.
whole earth is full of his glory, Isa. 6.3.
Q. And do you believe that he is a just God?
A. Yes, he is a God of truth, without iniquity, just and
right, Deut. 32.4.
right, Deut. 32.4.
Q. Is he not also a very merciful and gracious God?
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A. Yes, he is the Lord, the Lord God merciful and gracious,
long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,
Exod. 34.6. Ps. 145. 8.
long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,
Exod. 34.6. Ps. 145. 8.
Q. Is not he then the only living and true God?
A. Yes, the Lord is the true God, he is the living God,
and an everlasting King, Jer. 10.10.
and an everlasting King, Jer. 10.10.
Sect. 2. Concerning the Trinity, that God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost, are one God.
Q. DO you believe that the three persons in the Godhead,
God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy
Ghost, are one God?
God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy
Ghost, are one God?
A. Yes, for there are three that bear record in Heaven,
the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost, and these three
are one, 1 Joh. 5.7.
the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost, and these three
are one, 1 Joh. 5.7.
Q. Doth not the truth of this appear from the form of Baptizing,
which Christ taught his Disciples?
which Christ taught his Disciples?
A. Yes, Go ye therefore and teach all Nations, baptizing
them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of
the Holy Ghost, Matt. 28.19.
them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of
the Holy Ghost, Matt. 28.19.
Q. And is it not also very evidently confirmed, from the
manner of blessing the Apostles observe in the close of their
Epistles?
manner of blessing the Apostles observe in the close of their
Epistles?
A. Yes, the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love
of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with
you all, 2 Cor. 13.14.
of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with
you all, 2 Cor. 13.14.
Q. And must worship be given to any but God?
A. No, thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him
only shalt thou serve, Mat. 4.10.
only shalt thou serve, Mat. 4.10.
Q. Is God the Son equal with the Father?
A. Yes, who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery
to be equal with God, Phil. 2.6.
to be equal with God, Phil. 2.6.
Q. Is not Glory and Majesty, Dominion and Power, ascribed
to Christ as God?
to Christ as God?
A. Yes, to the only wise God, our Saviour, be Glory and
Majesty, Dominion and Power, both now and ever,
Jude 25.
Majesty, Dominion and Power, both now and ever,
Jude 25.
Q. Is not the Holy Ghost also God?
A. Yes, Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine
heart to lie to the Holy Ghost? thou hast not lied unto
men, but unto God, Acts 5.3, 4.
heart to lie to the Holy Ghost? thou hast not lied unto
men, but unto God, Acts 5.3, 4.
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Q. Is God the Son eternal?
A. Yes, in the beginning was the Word, and the Word
was with God, and the Word was God, Joh. 1.1.
was with God, and the Word was God, Joh. 1.1.
Q. Were all things created by him?
A. Yes, for by him were all things created that are in
Heaven, and that are in Earth, visible and invisible;
and
without him was not any thing made that was made, Col.
1.16. Joh. 1.3.
Heaven, and that are in Earth, visible and invisible;
and
without him was not any thing made that was made, Col.
1.16. Joh. 1.3.
Q. And is it not God alone who is maker of Heaven and
Earth?
Earth?
A. Yes, I am the Lord that maketh all things, that
stretcheth forth the Heavens alone, that spreadeth abroad
the Earth by my self, Is. 44.24.
stretcheth forth the Heavens alone, that spreadeth abroad
the Earth by my self, Is. 44.24.
Q. Doth not Christ know all things?
A. Yes, but Jesus did not commit himself unto them,
because he knew all men, and needed not that any should
testify of man; for he knew what was in man: And Peter
said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things, John 2.24.
and 21.17.
because he knew all men, and needed not that any should
testify of man; for he knew what was in man: And Peter
said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things, John 2.24.
and 21.17.
Q. Doth not the Holy Ghost also know all things?
A. Yes, the Spirit searcheth all things, yea the deep
things of God, 1 Cor. 2.10.
things of God, 1 Cor. 2.10.
Q. And is it not singly the property of God, to know all
things?
things?
A. Yes, produce your cause, saith the Lord, bring forth
your strong reasons, shew the former things what they be,
that we may consider them, and know the latter end of
them, or shew the things that are to come hereafter, that
we may know that ye are Gods, Isa. 41.21, 22, 23.
your strong reasons, shew the former things what they be,
that we may consider them, and know the latter end of
them, or shew the things that are to come hereafter, that
we may know that ye are Gods, Isa. 41.21, 22, 23.
Sect. 3. Concerning the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament.
Q. ARe these Books of the Old and New Testaments called
by way of preheminency Scripture, the Word of
God?
by way of preheminency Scripture, the Word of
God?
A. Yes, all Scripture is given by inspiration of God,.
2 Tim 3.16.
2 Tim 3.16.
Q. But can we upon good grounds believe, that the Prophets
did reveal nothing but what they had from God?
did reveal nothing but what they had from God?
A. Yes, 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, 2 Pet. 1.21.
will of man, but holy men of God spake as they were moved
by the Holy Ghost, 2 Pet. 1.21.
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Q. And may we trust in this as a sure and certain rule?
A. Yes, we have also a sure word of Prophecy; whereunto
we do well to take heed, as unto a light that shineth
in a dark place, 2 Pet. 1.19.
we do well to take heed, as unto a light that shineth
in a dark place, 2 Pet. 1.19.
Q. Would men who reject this revelation believe any
other?
other?
A. No, if they hear not Moses and the Prophets, neither
will they be perswaded though one rose from the dead,
Luke 16.31.
will they be perswaded though one rose from the dead,
Luke 16.31.
Q. Are not the Books of the Psalms, of the Prophets, and
these of Moses, mentioned in the New Testament, as being
from God?
these of Moses, mentioned in the New Testament, as being
from God?
A. Yes, and Christ said unto his Disciples, these are the
words which I spake unto you while I was yet with you,
that all things might be fulfilled which were written in the
Law of Moses, and in the Prophets, and in the Psalms,
concerning me; --- and he expounded to them in all the
Scriptures, the things concerning himself, Luke 24.
44. 27.
words which I spake unto you while I was yet with you,
that all things might be fulfilled which were written in the
Law of Moses, and in the Prophets, and in the Psalms,
concerning me; --- and he expounded to them in all the
Scriptures, the things concerning himself, Luke 24.
44. 27.
Q. Have we not as great certainty as can be, that all that
the Evangelists and Apostles wrote concerning Christ, are most
true?
the Evangelists and Apostles wrote concerning Christ, are most
true?
A. Yes, for these who from the beginning were eye-witnesses
and ministers of the word, who had perfect understanding
of all things from the very first, have set forth in
order a declaration of these things, that we might know
the certainty thereof
; for none of these things were done
in a corner, Luke 1.1, 2, 3, 4. 1 Joh. 1.3. Acts 26.26.
and ministers of the word, who had perfect understanding
of all things from the very first, have set forth in
order a declaration of these things, that we might know
the certainty thereof
; for none of these things were done
in a corner, Luke 1.1, 2, 3, 4. 1 Joh. 1.3. Acts 26.26.
Q. What if men should pretend the revelation of any other
Doctrine, should we believe them?
Doctrine, should we believe them?
A. No, 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, Gal. 1.8.
preach any other Gospel unto you, than that which we
have preached unto you, let him be accursed, Gal. 1.8.
Q. But how shall we know the word which the Lord hath
not spoken?
not spoken?
A. When a Prophet speaketh in the name of the Lord,
if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing
which the Lord hath not spoken, Deut. 18.22.
if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing
which the Lord hath not spoken, Deut. 18.22.
Q. Are not the Scriptures the only rule to try mens Doctrine
by?
by?
A. Yes, to the Law, and to the Testimony, if they speak
not according to this word, it is because there is no light
in them; and they do err not knowing the Scriptures, Isa.
8.20. Matt. 22.29.
not according to this word, it is because there is no light
in them; and they do err not knowing the Scriptures, Isa.
8.20. Matt. 22.29.
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Q. Is there not an admirable consent between the Scriptures
of the Old and New Testament?
of the Old and New Testament?
A. Yes, I continue witnessing both to small and great,
saying none other things than those, which the Prophets
and Moses did say should come, Acts 26.22.
saying none other things than those, which the Prophets
and Moses did say should come, Acts 26.22.
Q. For what is the Scripture profitable?
A. The Scripture is profitable for doctrine, for reproof,
for correction, for instruction, that the man of God may
be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works, 2 Tim. 3.16, 17.
for correction, for instruction, that the man of God may
be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works, 2 Tim. 3.16, 17.
Q. Is not the way to everlasting life held forth in the Scriptures?
A. Yes, search the Scriptures, for in them ye have eternal
life;
they are able to make you wise unto salvation,
through faith which is in Christ Jesus, John 5.39. 2 Tim.
3.15.
life;
they are able to make you wise unto salvation,
through faith which is in Christ Jesus, John 5.39. 2 Tim.
3.15.
Q. Should not the holiness and purity of the Doctrine contained
in the Scriptures, make us in love with it?
in the Scriptures, make us in love with it?
A. Yes, thy Word is very pure, therefore thy servant
loveth it, Ps 119.140.
loveth it, Ps 119.140.
Q. And are not the commands and precepts contained in
Scripture, unquestionably right and equitable?
Scripture, unquestionably right and equitable?
A. Yes, therefore I esteem all thy precepts, concerning
all things, to be right, Ps. 119.128.
all things, to be right, Ps. 119.128.
Q. And what are those things the Scripture enjoyns us to
think upon, and practise?
think upon, and practise?
A. Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are
honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are
pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are
of good report; if there be any vertue, if there be any
praise, think on these things, Phil 4.8
honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are
pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are
of good report; if there be any vertue, if there be any
praise, think on these things, Phil 4.8
Sect. 4. Concerning Creation and Providence.
Q. DO you believe, that in the beginning God made the
Heaven and the Earth?
Heaven and the Earth?
A. Yes, in the beginning God created the Heaven and
the Earth, Gen. 1.1.
the Earth, Gen. 1.1.
Q. Do you believe that of nothing God created all things
by the word of his power?
by the word of his power?
A. Yes, through Faith we understand that the
Worlds were framed by the Word of God, so that things
Heb. 11.3.
Worlds were framed by the Word of God, so that things
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that are seen, were not made of things that do appear,Heb. 11.3.
Q. How did God create man?
A. God created man in his own image, in the image of
God created he him, male and female created he them,
Gen. 1.27.
God created he him, male and female created he them,
Gen. 1.27.
Q. Was not every thing that God made very good?
A. Yes, and God saw every thing that he had made,
and behold it was very good, Gen. 1.31.
and behold it was very good, Gen. 1.31.
Q. And doth not the wisdom and goodness of God appear in
all his works?
all his works?
A. Yes, O Lord, how manifold are thy works, in wisdom
hast thou made them all; the earth is full of thy
riches, Psal. 104.24
hast thou made them all; the earth is full of thy
riches, Psal. 104.24
Q. Do you believe that the God who made you doth uphold
you by his good providence?
you by his good providence?
A. Yes, it is he that hath made us, and not we our selves,
which holdeth our soul in life, Psal. 100.3. Psal. 66.9.
which holdeth our soul in life, Psal. 100.3. Psal. 66.9.
Q. Do you then hold your life and being from him?
A. Yes, in him we live, and move, and have our being,
Acts 17.28.
Acts 17.28.
Q. Hath not God a dominion over his own works, and may
do with them according to his will?
do with them according to his will?
A. Yes, his Dominion is an everlasting Dominion, and
his Kingdom is from generation to generation; and all
the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing, and
he doth according to his will, in the army of Heaven, and
amongst the inhabitants of the earth, and none can stay his
hand, or say unto him, what dost thou? Dan. 4.34, 35.
his Kingdom is from generation to generation; and all
the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing, and
he doth according to his will, in the army of Heaven, and
amongst the inhabitants of the earth, and none can stay his
hand, or say unto him, what dost thou? Dan. 4.34, 35.
Q. And are not all Gods works and ways, most holy, and
most wise?
most wise?
A. Yes, the Lord is righteous in all his ways, and holy
in all his works, Psal. 145.17.
in all his works, Psal. 145.17.
Q. Doth not God regard mean and low things, as well as
great things?
great things?
A. Yes, are not two sparrows sold for a farthing, and
one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father;
but the very hairs of your head are all numbred;
fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows,
Mat. 10.29, 30, 31.
one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father;
but the very hairs of your head are all numbred;
fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows,
Mat. 10.29, 30, 31.
Q. Doth not God's providence appear in the care he taketh
for the oppressed, for the poor, for the strangers, fatherless and
widow, and for the hungry?
for the oppressed, for the poor, for the strangers, fatherless and
widow, and for the hungry?
A. Yes, he executeth judgment for the oppressed, he
ravens; he looseth the prisoners, he raiseth them that are
bowed down: the Lord preserveth the strangers, relieveth
the fatherless and widow, Psal. 146, 7, 8, 9. Job 38.41.
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giveth food to the hungry, and provideth for the youngravens; he looseth the prisoners, he raiseth them that are
bowed down: the Lord preserveth the strangers, relieveth
the fatherless and widow, Psal. 146, 7, 8, 9. Job 38.41.
Q. If God govern the World, why is it that good men are
often suffering, and bad men prospering?
often suffering, and bad men prospering?
A. The prosperity of fools destroyeth them, and they
are set in slippery places, for they are brought into destruction
as in a moment; but the Lord knoweth how to
deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the
unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished, Psal.73.
18,19,20. 2 Pet. 2.9.
are set in slippery places, for they are brought into destruction
as in a moment; but the Lord knoweth how to
deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the
unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished, Psal.73.
18,19,20. 2 Pet. 2.9.
Q. Is there then a God who judgeth in the earth?
A. Yes, verily there is a God that judgeth in the earth,
Psal. 58.11.
Psal. 58.11.
Sect. 5. Concerning the fall of man, of Sin, and of Gods willingness to save Sinners.
Q. DId man continue in that good estate in which he
was created?
was created?
A. No, God made man upright, but they have sought
out many inventions, Eccl. 7.29.
out many inventions, Eccl. 7.29.
Q. How entred sin into the world?
A. By one man sin entred into the world, and death
by sin, Rom. 5.12.
by sin, Rom. 5.12.
Q. What is sin?
A. Sin is the transgression of the Law, 1 Joh. 3.4.
Q. What was the Law given to our first Parents in Paradise?
A. Of the tree of the knowledg of good and evil thou
shalt not eat of it, Gen. 2.17.
shalt not eat of it, Gen. 2.17.
Q. What was the threatning of that Law?
A. For in the day thou eatest thereof, thou shalt surely
dye, Gen. 2.17.
dye, Gen. 2.17.
Q. Did our first Parents break this Law?
A. Yes, and 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, Gen. 3.6
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, Gen. 3.6
Q. Was the punishment which that Law threatned, inflicted
upon the offender?
upon the offender?
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A. Yes, by one mans offence death reigned by one,
and judgment came upon all men to condemnation,
Rom. 5. 17, 18.
and judgment came upon all men to condemnation,
Rom. 5. 17, 18.
Q. And are all that descend from Adam by ordinary generation,
involved in that guilt and punishment?
involved in that guilt and punishment?
A. Yes, by one mans disobedience many were made sinners;
and so death passed upon all men, for that all have
sinned, Rom. 5. 19. 12.
and so death passed upon all men, for that all have
sinned, Rom. 5. 19. 12.
Q. There is no man then without sin?
A. No, if we say we have no sin we deceive our selves,
we make God a liar, and the truth is not in us
, for there
is not a just man upon earth that dooth good and sinneth
not, 1 Joh. 8.10. Eccl. 8.20.
we make God a liar, and the truth is not in us
, for there
is not a just man upon earth that dooth good and sinneth
not, 1 Joh. 8.10. Eccl. 8.20.
Q. Are all sins equally great?
A. No, and he said unto me, seest thou what they do?
even the great abominations that the house of Israel
committeth here, that I should go far off from my sanctuary;
but turn thee yet again, and thou shalt see greater
abominations, Ezek. 8.6.13.
even the great abominations that the house of Israel
committeth here, that I should go far off from my sanctuary;
but turn thee yet again, and thou shalt see greater
abominations, Ezek. 8.6.13.
Q. Doth God by his decrees necessitate and tempt man to
sin?
sin?
A. No, no, let no man say when he is tempted, he is
tempted of God; for God cannot be tempted with evil,
neither tempteth he any man, Jam. 1.13.
tempted of God; for God cannot be tempted with evil,
neither tempteth he any man, Jam. 1.13.
Q. Did God leave mankind in this lapsed state without a
remedy?
remedy?
A. No, God so loved the World, that he gave his only
begotten Son, that whosoever, believeth in him should not
perish, but have everlasting life, John. 3.16.
begotten Son, that whosoever, believeth in him should not
perish, but have everlasting life, John. 3.16.
Q. Was this free gift bestowed upon all men?
A. Yes, as by the offence of one, judgment came upon
all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness
of one, the free gift came upon all men unto justification
of life, Rom. 5.18.
all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness
of one, the free gift came upon all men unto justification
of life, Rom. 5.18.
Q. God doth not then delight in the death of sinners?
A. No, as I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure
in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from
his way and live; turn ye, from your evil ways,
for why will ye die? Ezek. 33. 11.
in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from
his way and live; turn ye, from your evil ways,
for why will ye die? Ezek. 33. 11.
Q. And was it not for to save sinners that Christ came into
the World?
the World?
A. Yes, this is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation,
that Christ Jesus came into the World to save
sinners, 1 Tim. 1.15.
that Christ Jesus came into the World to save
sinners, 1 Tim. 1.15.
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Q. What then is the reason that men continue in their
sins?
sins?
A. They will not come to Christ that they might have life,
John 5.40.
John 5.40.
Q. Christ then is willing to save sinners, and it is only
mens unwillingness that is to blame?
mens unwillingness that is to blame?
A. Yes, he is not willing that any should perish, but that
all should come to repentance: O Jerusalem, Jerusalem,
thou that killest the Prophets, and stonest them which are
sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy
children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens
under her wings, and ye would not, 2 Pet. 3. Matt. 23.37
all should come to repentance: O Jerusalem, Jerusalem,
thou that killest the Prophets, and stonest them which are
sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy
children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens
under her wings, and ye would not, 2 Pet. 3. Matt. 23.37
Q. Hath not God used all the methods of love to reclaim
sinners, that they perish not?
sinners, that they perish not?
A. Yes, what could have been done more to my Vineyard,
that I have not done in it? Isa. 5.4.
that I have not done in it? Isa. 5.4.
Q. And is he not loath, grieved, and unwilling, to give up
with sinners?
with sinners?
A. Yes, how shall I give thee up, Ephraim? how shall I
deliver thee, Israel? how shall I make thee as Admah?
how shall I set thee as Zeboim? mine heart is turned within
me, my repentings are kindled together, Hos. 11.8.
deliver thee, Israel? how shall I make thee as Admah?
how shall I set thee as Zeboim? mine heart is turned within
me, my repentings are kindled together, Hos. 11.8.
Sect. 6. Concerning Christ, as Mediator between God and lapsed Man.
Q. DO you believe that God did send forth his Son made
of a woman, made under the Law, to redeem the
World?
of a woman, made under the Law, to redeem the
World?
A. Yes, when the fulness of time came, God sent forth
his Son made of a woman, made under the Law, to redeem
them that were under the Law, Gal. 4.4.
his Son made of a woman, made under the Law, to redeem
them that were under the Law, Gal. 4.4.
Q. Do you believe that Jesus Christ was conceived by the
power of the Holy Ghost?
power of the Holy Ghost?
A. Yes, for the Scripture telleth me, that the birth of Jesus
Christ was on this wise; when-as his Mother Mary
was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was
found with child of the Holy Ghost, Mat. 1.18.
Christ was on this wise; when-as his Mother Mary
was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was
found with child of the Holy Ghost, Mat. 1.18.
Q. Do you also believe that he was born of a Virgin?
A. Yes, behold a Virgin shall be with child, and shall
bring forth a Son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel,
which being interpreted, is, God with us, Mat. 1.23.
bring forth a Son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel,
which being interpreted, is, God with us, Mat. 1.23.
Q. And do you firmly believe, that this Jesus of Nazareth,
and who did great and mighty works; that was delivered by the
Jews unto Pontius Pilat, was crucified, died, and rose again;
that this was Christ, the Son of the Living God?
10
who was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of Herod,and who did great and mighty works; that was delivered by the
Jews unto Pontius Pilat, was crucified, died, and rose again;
that this was Christ, the Son of the Living God?
A. Yes, 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; and we are witnesses of all that he did, both in
the Land of the Jews, and at Jerusalem: against whom
both Herod and Pontius Pilat, with the Gentiles and the
people of Israel, were gathered together; whom they
slew, and hanged on a tree; him God raised up the third
day, and shewed him openly. This is the Christ, the Son of
the Living God; who is ordained to be Judg of the quick
and dead: Whosoever believeth in him, shall receive remission
of sins, Acts 10.38, 39, 40, 42, 43. Acts 4.27. Mat. 16.16.
Ghost, and with power; who went about doing good, and
healing all that were oppressed of the Devil, for God was
with him; and we are witnesses of all that he did, both in
the Land of the Jews, and at Jerusalem: against whom
both Herod and Pontius Pilat, with the Gentiles and the
people of Israel, were gathered together; whom they
slew, and hanged on a tree; him God raised up the third
day, and shewed him openly. This is the Christ, the Son of
the Living God; who is ordained to be Judg of the quick
and dead: Whosoever believeth in him, shall receive remission
of sins, Acts 10.38, 39, 40, 42, 43. Acts 4.27. Mat. 16.16.
Q. Is Christ Jesus the only Mediator between God and
Man?
Man?
A. Yes, for there is one God, and one Mediator between
God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 1 Tim. 2.5.
God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 1 Tim. 2.5.
Q. Is Christ both God and Man?
A. Yes, he was made of the seed of David according
to the flesh; and declared to be the Son of God, with power,
Rom. 1.3, 4.
to the flesh; and declared to be the Son of God, with power,
Rom. 1.3, 4.
Q. Is there Salvation in any other?
A. No, there is none other name under Heaven given
among men, whereby we must be saved, Acts 4.12.
among men, whereby we must be saved, Acts 4.12.
Q. And is he able to save all that come unto God by him?
A. Yes, he is able also to save them to the uttermost,
that come unto God by him, Heb. 7.25.
that come unto God by him, Heb. 7.25.
Q. For what end did Christ give himself for us?
A. Christ gave himself for us, that he might redeem us
from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people,
zealous of good works;
teaching us, that denying ungodliness,
and worldly lusts, we should live soberly,
righteously, and godly in this present World, Tit. 2.14.
12.
from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people,
zealous of good works;
teaching us, that denying ungodliness,
and worldly lusts, we should live soberly,
righteously, and godly in this present World, Tit. 2.14.
12.
Q. Are not the miracles which Christ wrought, a great argument
that he was sent of God?
that he was sent of God?
A. Yes, ye sent unto John, and he bare witness unto the
truth;
but I have a greater witness than that of John; for
the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the
same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father
hath sent me, Joh. 5.33.36.
truth;
but I have a greater witness than that of John; for
the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the
same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father
hath sent me, Joh. 5.33.36.
11
Q. Is it not also a convincing argument, that all the Prophecies
concerning the Messias are fulfilled in him?
concerning the Messias are fulfilled in him?
A. Yes, to him gave all the Prophets witness; and those
things which God before had shewed by the mouth of all
his Prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled,
Acts 10.43. Acts 3.18.
things which God before had shewed by the mouth of all
his Prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled,
Acts 10.43. Acts 3.18.
Q. Is Christ a Prophet?
A. Yes, this is that Moses which said unto the children
of Israel, a Prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto
you of your brethren, like unto me, him shall ye hear,
Acts 7.37.
of Israel, a Prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto
you of your brethren, like unto me, him shall ye hear,
Acts 7.37.
Q. What hath he revealed to us as a Prophet?
A. All things that he hath heard from his Father, hath
he made known unto us, Joh. 15.15.
he made known unto us, Joh. 15.15.
Q. And is it not our duty to hear him?
A. Yes, him shall ye hear in all things, whatsoever he
shall say unto you, Act. 3.22.
shall say unto you, Act. 3.22.
Q. Is not Christ a Priest also?
A. Yes, called of God an high Priest, after the order
of Melchisedec, Heb. 5.10.
of Melchisedec, Heb. 5.10.
Q. How doth it appear that he is a Priest?
A. From his once offering himself without spot to God,
to make reconciliation for the sins of the people; for
whom he ever liveth to make intercession, Heb. 9.14.28.
Heb. 2.18. & 7.25
to make reconciliation for the sins of the people; for
whom he ever liveth to make intercession, Heb. 9.14.28.
Heb. 2.18. & 7.25
Q. And is not Christ a King?
A. Yes, yet have I set my King upon my holy hill of
Zion;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, Psal.
2.6. Isa. 9.6.
Zion;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, Psal.
2.6. Isa. 9.6.
Q. Wherein doth Christs Kingly office appear?
A. Christs Kingly office appeareth, in making the people
willing in the day of his power, and in ruling in the midst
of his enemies; for he must reign till he put all enemies
under his feet, Psal. 110.2, 3. 1 Cor. 15.25.
willing in the day of his power, and in ruling in the midst
of his enemies; for he must reign till he put all enemies
under his feet, Psal. 110.2, 3. 1 Cor. 15.25.
Q. Will any punishment be inflicted upon those who submit
not to his Government?
not to his Government?
A. Yes, but those mine enemies, which would not
that I should reign over them, bring hither and slay them
before me, Luk. 19.27.
that I should reign over them, bring hither and slay them
before me, Luk. 19.27.
Q. Christ then will never be a Priest to save any, who take
him not as well for their Prophet to Teach, and their King to
Rule them?
him not as well for their Prophet to Teach, and their King to
Rule them?
12
A. No, he became the author of eternal salvation unto
all them that obey him, Heb. 5.9.
all them that obey him, Heb. 5.9.
Q. You then firmly believe, that Christ died for our sins,
that he was buried, and rose again the third day?
that he was buried, and rose again the third day?
A. Yes, for I delivered unto you first of all that which
I also received, how that Christ died for our sins, and
that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day
according to the Scriptures, 1 Cor. 15.3, 4.
I also received, how that Christ died for our sins, and
that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day
according to the Scriptures, 1 Cor. 15.3, 4.
Q. Was he seen of any after he rose?
A. Yes, he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve, after
that he was seen of above five hundred brethren at
once; after that he was seen of James, then of all the
Apostles, 1 Cor. 15.5, 6, 7.
that he was seen of above five hundred brethren at
once; after that he was seen of James, then of all the
Apostles, 1 Cor. 15.5, 6, 7.
Q. How long time was he seen of them alive after his passion?
A. To them also he shewed himself alive after his passion,
by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty
days, Acts 1.3.
by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty
days, Acts 1.3.
Q. Was Christ received up into Heaven after he had manifested
himself to his Disciples?
himself to his Disciples?
A. Yes, so then, after the Lord had spoken unto them,
he was received up into Heaven, and set on the right hand
of God, Mark 16.19.
he was received up into Heaven, and set on the right hand
of God, Mark 16.19.
Q. What doth Christ now in Heaven for his people?
A. He is entred into Heaven now, to appear in the presence
of God for them,
where he ever liveth to make intercession,
Heb. 9.24. & 7.25.
of God for them,
where he ever liveth to make intercession,
Heb. 9.24. & 7.25.
Q. Shall this same Jesus which was taken up into Heaven,
in like manner return?
in like manner return?
A. Yes, ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into
Heaven? this same Jesus which is taken up from you into
Heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him
go into Heaven, Acts 1.11.
Heaven? this same Jesus which is taken up from you into
Heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him
go into Heaven, Acts 1.11.
Q. After what manner shall he return?
A. And they shall see the Son of man coming in the
clouds of Heaven with power and great glory; for he
shall descend from Heaven with a shout, with the voice of
the Arch-Angel, and with the trump of God; and the
dead in Christ shall rise first, Mat. 24.30. 1 Thess. 4.16.
clouds of Heaven with power and great glory; for he
shall descend from Heaven with a shout, with the voice of
the Arch-Angel, and with the trump of God; and the
dead in Christ shall rise first, Mat. 24.30. 1 Thess. 4.16.
Q. Is Christ then to be Judg of the World?
A. Yes, because he hath appointed a day in which he
will judg the World in righteousness, by that man whom
he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto
all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead, Acts
17.31.
will judg the World in righteousness, by that man whom
he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto
all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead, Acts
17.31.
13
Sect 7. Concerning the Resurrection of our Bodies.
Q. DO you believe that the dead shall rise again?
A. Yes, 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, Joh. 5.28, 29.
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, Joh. 5.28, 29.
Q. Is not the Doctrine of the Resurrection very incredible?
A. No, why should it be thought a thing incredible with
you, that God should raise the dead? Acts 26.8.
you, that God should raise the dead? Acts 26.8.
Q. If the dead rise not, are not the faithful witnesses of God
found false?
found false?
A. Yes, yea and we are found false witnesses of God,
because we have testified of God, that he raised up Christ;
whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not; for
if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised, 1 Cor. 15.
15, 16.
because we have testified of God, that he raised up Christ;
whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not; for
if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised, 1 Cor. 15.
15, 16.
Q. And were it not a vain thing to believe in Christ, if there
be no resurrection of the dead?
be no resurrection of the dead?
A. Yes, for if there be no resurrection of the dead, then
is Christ not risen; and if Christ be not risen, then is our
Preaching vain, and your Faith is also vain, and ye are yet
in your sins, 1 Cor. 15.13, 14, 17.
is Christ not risen; and if Christ be not risen, then is our
Preaching vain, and your Faith is also vain, and ye are yet
in your sins, 1 Cor. 15.13, 14, 17.
Q. If the dead rise not, were not good and vertuous men of
all men the most miserable?
all men the most miserable?
A. Yes, if in this life only we have hope in Christ, we
are of all men most miserable, 1 Cor. 15.19.
are of all men most miserable, 1 Cor. 15.19.
Q. Might not men lawfully commit all unlawful acts, all
excess of riot, and live as they please, if the dead rise not?
excess of riot, and live as they please, if the dead rise not?
A. Yes, if the dead rise not, let us eat and drink, for to
morrow we die, 1 Cor. 15.32.
morrow we die, 1 Cor. 15.32.
Q. But is it not certain that Christ is risen from the dead?
A. Yes, but now is Christ risen from the dead, and become
the first-fruits of them that slept, 1 Cor. 15.20.
the first-fruits of them that slept, 1 Cor. 15.20.
Q. How are the dead raised up?
A. The Lord himself shall descend from Heaven with
a shout, with the voice of the Arch-Angel, and with the
trump of God, and the dead in Christ shall rise, 1 Thess. 4.16.
a shout, with the voice of the Arch-Angel, and with the
trump of God, and the dead in Christ shall rise, 1 Thess. 4.16.
14
Q. With what body shall they rise?
A. The body 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, 1 Cor. 42, 43,
44.
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, 1 Cor. 42, 43,
44.
Q. What is the reason that men do err in not believing the
Doctrine of the resurrection?
Doctrine of the resurrection?
A. They do err, not knowing the Scripture, nor the
power of God, Matt. 22.29.
power of God, Matt. 22.29.
Sect. 8. Concerning the Iudgment of the Great Day.
Q. DO you believe that God hath appointed a day, in the
which he will judg the World by his Son?
which he will judg the World by his Son?
A. Yes, because he hath appointed a day, in the which
he will judg the World in righteousness, by that man whom
he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto
all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead, Acts 17.
31.
he will judg the World in righteousness, by that man whom
he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto
all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead, Acts 17.
31.
Q. Must all men appear before their Judg, to get a sentence
according to the life they have lived upon earth?
according to the life they have lived upon earth?
A. Yes, for we must all appear before the Judgment-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, 2. Cor. 5.10.
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, 2. Cor. 5.10.
Q. Will every work that man hath done, be brought into
judgment?
judgment?
A. Yes, for God shall bring every work into judgment,
with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it
be evil, Eccl. 12.14.
with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it
be evil, Eccl. 12.14.
Q. And must men give account of every idle word?
A. Yes, But I say unto you, that every idle word that
men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the
day of Judgment; for by their words they shall be justified,
and by their words they shall be condemned, Mat. 12.36,
37.
men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the
day of Judgment; for by their words they shall be justified,
and by their words they shall be condemned, Mat. 12.36,
37.
Q. Will not the Judg of the whole earth judg righteous
judgment?
judgment?
A. Yes, we are sure the judgment of God is according
to truth; for he will render to every man according to
his deeds; and there is no respect of persons with God,
Rom. 2.2, 6, 11.
to truth; for he will render to every man according to
his deeds; and there is no respect of persons with God,
Rom. 2.2, 6, 11.
15
Q. What is the sentence Christ will pass on the righteous
in the great day?
in the great day?
A. 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, Mat.
25.34.
Come ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared
for you from the foundation of the world, Mat.
25.34.
Q. What is the sentence Christ will pass on the wicked?
A. Then shall he say unto them on the left hand, Depart
from me, ye cursed into everlasting fire, prepared
for the Devil and his Angels, Mat. 25.41.
from me, ye cursed into everlasting fire, prepared
for the Devil and his Angels, Mat. 25.41.
Q. Who is he that shall enter into eternal life?
A. He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness,
and speaketh the truth in his heart; he that backbiteth
not with his tongue, nor doth evil to his neighbour;
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; he that putteth not out his money
to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent;
he who by patient continuance in well-doing, seeketh for
glory, and honour, and immortality, shall inherit eternal
life:
And he that doth these things, shall never be moved,
Ps. 15.2, 3, &c. Rom. 2.7.
and speaketh the truth in his heart; he that backbiteth
not with his tongue, nor doth evil to his neighbour;
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; he that putteth not out his money
to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent;
he who by patient continuance in well-doing, seeketh for
glory, and honour, and immortality, shall inherit eternal
life:
And he that doth these things, shall never be moved,
Ps. 15.2, 3, &c. Rom. 2.7.
Q. Who are they on whom God will take vengeance?
A. On them that know not God, and that obey not the
Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ,
but obey unrighteousness;
these shall be punished with everlasting destruction, from
the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power,
2 Thess. 1.8, 9. Rom. 2.8.
Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ,
but obey unrighteousness;
these shall be punished with everlasting destruction, from
the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power,
2 Thess. 1.8, 9. Rom. 2.8.
Q. Since there are such joys prepared for the righteous, and
such torments for the wicked; were it not great wisdom in every
man to order his conversation aright?
such torments for the wicked; were it not great wisdom in every
man to order his conversation aright?
A. Yes, seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what
manner of persons ought we to be in all holy conversation
and godliness; looking for, and hastning to the coming of
the day of God,
that we may be accounted worthy to
escape the wrath to come, and be able to stand before the
Son of man? 2 Pet. 3.11, 12. Luke 21.36.
manner of persons ought we to be in all holy conversation
and godliness; looking for, and hastning to the coming of
the day of God,
that we may be accounted worthy to
escape the wrath to come, and be able to stand before the
Son of man? 2 Pet. 3.11, 12. Luke 21.36.
Sect. 2. Of submission to God's will in respect of obedience, of patience in suffering, and of honour due to God in his house, possessions, his day and word.
Q. IS it not the duty of every man to give chearful obedience
to the will of God?
to the will of God?
A. Yes, behold to obey is better than sacrifice, and to
hearken than the fat of rams; therefore I will hear what
God the Lord will speak, and I will say the will of the
Lord be done, 1 Sam. 15.22. Psal. 85.8. Acts 21.14.
hearken than the fat of rams; therefore I will hear what
God the Lord will speak, and I will say the will of the
Lord be done, 1 Sam. 15.22. Psal. 85.8. Acts 21.14.
Q. What is that obedience that God requires of man?
A. 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?
Mic. 6.8.
doth the Lord require of thee but to do justly, and to love
mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?
Mic. 6.8.
C3
16
Q. Doth not God give up men to walk, in their own counsel,
when they refuse to hearken to his will?
when they refuse to hearken to his will?
A. Yes, but my people would not hearken to my voice,
and Israel would none of me; so I gave them up unto
their hearts lust, and they walked in their own counsels,
Psal. 81.11, 12.
and Israel would none of me; so I gave them up unto
their hearts lust, and they walked in their own counsels,
Psal. 81.11, 12.
Q. Is not a proud person very unfit to obey?
A. Yes, the wicked through the pride of his countenance
will not seek after God, Psal. 10.4.
will not seek after God, Psal. 10.4.
Q. But may not men have high conceits of their obedience
to God's will?
to God's will?
A. No, 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, Luke 17.
10.
are commanded you, say, we are unprofitable servants,
we have done that which was our duty to do, Luke 17.
10.
Q. Is it not the duty of every Christian to be patient under
affliction?
affliction?
A. Yes, take my brethren the Prophets, who have spoken
in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering
affliction, and of patience; behold we count them happy
which endure: ye have heard of the patience of Job, be
also patient, Jam. 5.10, 11.8.
in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering
affliction, and of patience; behold we count them happy
which endure: ye have heard of the patience of Job, be
also patient, Jam. 5.10, 11.8.
Q. We should not then murmur or grudg at whatever he
does?
does?
A. No, it is the Lord, let him do what seemeth him
good:
I was dumb, I opened not my mouth, because thou
didst it, 1 Sam. 3.18. Psal. 39.9.
good:
I was dumb, I opened not my mouth, because thou
didst it, 1 Sam. 3.18. Psal. 39.9.
Q. Is it not very unlike the act of a child, to oppose his Fathers
will?
will?
A. Yes, furthermore, we have had Fathers of our flesh,
that corrected us, and we gave them reverence; shall we
not much rather be in subjection to the Father of Spirits,
and live? Heb. 12.9.
that corrected us, and we gave them reverence; shall we
not much rather be in subjection to the Father of Spirits,
and live? Heb. 12.9.
Q. Is it not sin that bringeth affliction upon people?
A. Yes, fools, because of their transgression, and because
of their iniquities, are afflicted, Psal. 107.17.
of their iniquities, are afflicted, Psal. 107.17.
Q. God doth not then willingly send afflictions?
A. No, he doth not afflict willingly, nor grieve the children
of men,
Lam. 3.13.
of men,
Lam. 3.13.
Q. Is it not a mercy to many that they have been corrected
A. Yes, it was good for me that I have been afflicted;
before I was afflicted I went astray, but now have I kept
thy words, Ps. 119.71.67.
before I was afflicted I went astray, but now have I kept
thy words, Ps. 119.71.67.
17
Q. Should we not study fruitfulness under corrections?
A. Yes, the Lord's voice cryeth unto the City, and the
man of wisdom shall see thy name: hear ye the rod, and
who hath appointed it, Mic. 6.9.
man of wisdom shall see thy name: hear ye the rod, and
who hath appointed it, Mic. 6.9.
Q. Is it not the duty of every man to honour God?
A. Yes, a Son honoureth his Father, and a Servant his
Master: if then I be a Father, where is mine honour?
and if I be a Master, where is my fear? saith the Lord of
Hosts unto you, Mal. 1.6.
Master: if then I be a Father, where is mine honour?
and if I be a Master, where is my fear? saith the Lord of
Hosts unto you, Mal. 1.6.
Q. Should we not then have the highest and most excellent
esteem of him in our hearts?
esteem of him in our hearts?
A. Yes, O Lord our Lord, how excellent is thy name
in all the earth?
thy righteousness, O God, is very high;
who hast done great things: O God, who is like unto thee?
Psal. 8.9. 71.19.
in all the earth?
thy righteousness, O God, is very high;
who hast done great things: O God, who is like unto thee?
Psal. 8.9. 71.19.
Q, And should we not so far honour his house, as to set it
a-part wholly for his use?
a-part wholly for his use?
A. Yes; and Jesus went up to Jerusalem, and found in
the Temple those that sold Oxen, and Sheep, and Doves,
and the Changers of money sitting; and he said unto them,
take these things, hence, make not my Fathers house an
house of merchandize, Joh. 2.14, 16.
the Temple those that sold Oxen, and Sheep, and Doves,
and the Changers of money sitting; and he said unto them,
take these things, hence, make not my Fathers house an
house of merchandize, Joh. 2.14, 16.
Q. Should we not also be glad when we have the opportunity
of going thither?
of going thither?
A. Yes, I was glad when they said unto me, let us go
unto the house of the Lord, Psal. 122.1.
unto the house of the Lord, Psal. 122.1.
Q. But should we not be very careful over our hearts, and
all our senses, when we got to the house of God?
all our senses, when we got to the house of God?
A. Yes, keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of
God, and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice
of fools, Eccl. 5.1.
God, and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice
of fools, Eccl. 5.1.
Q. Is it not our duty also to have such a respect to his peculiar
possessions, which are set a-part for the maintenance of
those that attend his service, as not to turn it to any other
use?
possessions, which are set a-part for the maintenance of
those that attend his service, as not to turn it to any other
use?
A. Yes, will a man rob God? yet he have robbed me;
yet ye say, wherein have we robbed thee? in Tithes and
Offerings: ye are cursed with a curse, Mal 3.8, 9.
yet ye say, wherein have we robbed thee? in Tithes and
Offerings: ye are cursed with a curse, Mal 3.8, 9.
Q. Is it not just and necessary, that something be allotted
for the support and maintenance of those that attend the service
of God?
for the support and maintenance of those that attend the service
of God?
A. Yes, the labourer is worthy of his reward:
and if
we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing
if we reap your carnal things, 1 Cor. 9.11. 1 Tim. 5.18.
and if
we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing
if we reap your carnal things, 1 Cor. 9.11. 1 Tim. 5.18.
C4
18
Q. But should the Ministers of the Gospel have support and
maintenance, as well as those who did wait at the Altar, were
partakers with the Altar?
maintenance, as well as those who did wait at the Altar, were
partakers with the Altar?
A. Yes, Do ye not know, that they which minister about
holy things, live of the things of the Temple? and they
which wait at the Altar, are partakers with the Altar?
even so hath the Lord ordained, that they which preach
the Gospel, should live of the Gospel, 1 Cor. 9.13, 14.
holy things, live of the things of the Temple? and they
which wait at the Altar, are partakers with the Altar?
even so hath the Lord ordained, that they which preach
the Gospel, should live of the Gospel, 1 Cor. 9.13, 14.
Q. Is it not our duty to honour god, in keeping holy his
Sabbaths?
Sabbaths?
A. Yes, keep the Sabbath-day to sanctifie it, as the Lord
thy God hath commanded thee, Deut. 5.12.
thy God hath commanded thee, Deut. 5.12.
Q. But must we abstain from all unnecessary works on the
Sabbath-day?
Sabbath-day?
A. Yes, in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy
son, nor thy daughter, thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant,
nor thy cattel, nor thy stranger that is within thy
gates, Exod. 20.10.
son, nor thy daughter, thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant,
nor thy cattel, nor thy stranger that is within thy
gates, Exod. 20.10.
Q. Is it not a sin to be weary of the Sabbath?
A. Yes, hear this, ye who say, when shall the Sabbath
be gone, that we may set forth wheat?shall not the land
tremble for this? Amos 8.5, 8.
be gone, that we may set forth wheat?shall not the land
tremble for this? Amos 8.5, 8.
Q. Are there not special blessings promised to those that sanctifie
the Sabbath?
the Sabbath?
A. Yes, blessed is the man that keepeth the Sabbath
from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any
evil; even unto him will I give in mine house, and within
my walls, a place, and a name, better than of sons and of
daughters, Isa. 56.2, 5.
from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any
evil; even unto him will I give in mine house, and within
my walls, a place, and a name, better than of sons and of
daughters, Isa. 56.2, 5.
Q. But are we Christians obliged to keep one day of the seventh,
as well as the Jews were?
as well as the Jews were?
A. Yes, think not that I am come to destroy the Law or
the Prophets; I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil,
the Prophets; I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil,
Q. And have we any reason for the change of the Sabbath
from the seventh day to the first?
from the seventh day to the first?
A. Yes, and upon the first day of the week, when the
Disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached
unto them, Acts 20.7.
Disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached
unto them, Acts 20.7.
Q. Is it not our duty to express our reverence to God, by honouring
his word?
his word?
A. Yes, in God I will praise his word, in the Lord will
I praise his word, Psal. 56.10.
I praise his word, Psal. 56.10.
19
Q. Is preaching of the Word necessary?
A. Yes, for Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by
the Word of God, Rom. 10.17.
the Word of God, Rom. 10.17.
Q. Should we not then be desirous to hear the Word preached?
A. Yes, as new-born babes desire the sincere milk of
the Word, that ye may grow thereby, 1 Pet. 2.2.
the Word, that ye may grow thereby, 1 Pet. 2.2.
Q. Will the hearing of the Word do us any good, if we be
not doers of it?
not doers of it?
A. No, be ye doers of the Word, not hearers only, deceiving
your own souls, Jam. 1.22.
your own souls, Jam. 1.22.
Q. May any man preach the Gospel at his own pleasure?
A. No, how can they preach except they be sent?
no
man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called
of God, as was Aaron, Rom. 10.15. Heb. 5.4.
no
man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called
of God, as was Aaron, Rom. 10.15. Heb. 5.4.
Q. Must we believe what every one that pretends to be a
Preacher, saith?
Preacher, saith?
A. No, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits, whether
they are of God; because many false Prophets are
gone out into the World, 1 Joh. 4.1.
they are of God; because many false Prophets are
gone out into the World, 1 Joh. 4.1.
Q. Is not the Scripture the rule by which their doctrine is
to be tried?
to be tried?
A. Yes, and the Bereans were more noble than those in
Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness
of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily, whether
those things were so, Acts 17.11.
Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness
of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily, whether
those things were so, Acts 17.11.
Q. But should not obedience be given to those that have a lawful
calling to the Office, and who preach sound doctrine?
calling to the Office, and who preach sound doctrine?
A. Yes, 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, Heb.
13.17.
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, Heb.
13.17.
Q. Should not such be also honoured, and had in respect?
A. Yes, let the Elders that rule well be counted worthy
of double honour; especially they who labour in the
word and doctrine.
How beautiful are the feet of them
that preach the Gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of
good things! 1 Tim. 5.17. Rom. 10.15.
of double honour; especially they who labour in the
word and doctrine.
How beautiful are the feet of them
that preach the Gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of
good things! 1 Tim. 5.17. Rom. 10.15.
20
Sect. 3. Of the Sacraments of Baptisme, and of the Lord's Supper.
Q. IS it not the duty of all that would be saved, and have
the remission of their sins, to be baptized?
the remission of their sins, to be baptized?
A. Yes, then Peter said unto them, repent and be baptized
every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ, for the
remission of sins, Acts 2.38.
every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ, for the
remission of sins, Acts 2.38.
Q. What is Baptism?
A. A washing with water, in the name of the Father,
and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, Mat 28.19.
and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, Mat 28.19.
Q. Are we not by vertue of our Baptism engaged against
sin, and to walk in newness of life?
sin, and to walk in newness of life?
A. Yes, know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized
into Jesus Christ, were baptized into his death;
therefore we are buried with him by Baptism into death,
that as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory
of the Father; even so we also should walk in newness
of life.
What shall we say then? shall we continue in sin?
Rom. 6.3, 4. 1.
into Jesus Christ, were baptized into his death;
therefore we are buried with him by Baptism into death,
that as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory
of the Father; even so we also should walk in newness
of life.
What shall we say then? shall we continue in sin?
Rom. 6.3, 4. 1.
Q. Can any thing hinder those who believe in Christ, to be
baptized?
baptized?
A. No, and Philip said, if thou believest with all thine
heart, thou mayest: and he answered and said, I believe
that Jesus Christ is the Son of God; and they went both
into the water, both Philip and the Eunuch, and he baptized
him, Acts 8.36, 37, 38.
heart, thou mayest: and he answered and said, I believe
that Jesus Christ is the Son of God; and they went both
into the water, both Philip and the Eunuch, and he baptized
him, Acts 8.36, 37, 38.
Q. Should the infants of Parents, professing Faith in Christ,
be baptized?
be baptized?
A. Yes, for the promise is to you and your children,
Acts 2.39.
Acts 2.39.
Q. Is it not the duty of every one that is baptized into
Christ, to walk as new creatures?
Christ, to walk as new creatures?
A. Yes, for as many of you as have been baptized into
Christ, have put on Christ;
and they that are Christ's, have
crucified the flesh, with the affections and lusts, Gal. 3.27.
& 5.24.
Christ, have put on Christ;
and they that are Christ's, have
crucified the flesh, with the affections and lusts, Gal. 3.27.
& 5.24.
Q. Do not these men who walk in the lusts of the flesh, and
who walk not soberly, righteously, and godly, blaspheme that
holy name by which they are called?
who walk not soberly, righteously, and godly, blaspheme that
holy name by which they are called?
A. Yes, Do they not blaspheme that worthy name by
the which ye are called, Jam. 2.7.
the which ye are called, Jam. 2.7.
21
Q. Is it not the duty of every Christian to take the Sacrament
of the Lords Supper?
of the Lords Supper?
A. Yes, 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; 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 remembrance of
me. After the same manner also he took the Cup, when
he had supped, saying, this Cup is the new Testament in
my blood, this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance
of me, 1 Cor. 11.23, 24, 25.
I delivered unto you; that the Lord Jesus 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 remembrance of
me. After the same manner also he took the Cup, when
he had supped, saying, this Cup is the new Testament in
my blood, this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance
of me, 1 Cor. 11.23, 24, 25.
Q. Have not believers a communion with Christ in the Sacrament?
A. Yes, the cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the
communion of the body of Christ? 2 Cor. 10.26.
communion of the body of Christ? 2 Cor. 10.26.
Q. Are all those who eat the bread which signifieth the body
of Christ, as well obliged to take the cup, which signifieth
and represents the blood of Christ?
of Christ, as well obliged to take the cup, which signifieth
and represents the blood of Christ?
A. Yes, and he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave
it unto them, saying, drink ye all of it, Mat. 26.27.
it unto them, saying, drink ye all of it, Mat. 26.27.
Q. Is it not very necessary for a man to examine himself well
before he approach the Table of the Lord?
before he approach the Table of the Lord?
A. Yes, let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of
that bread, and drink of that cup, 1 Cor. 11.28.
that bread, and drink of that cup, 1 Cor. 11.28.
Q. Is it not a dangerous thing to eat and drink unworthily,
and irreverently?
and irreverently?
A. Yes, for he that eateth and drinketh unworthily,
eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning
the Lord's body, 1 Cor. 11.29.
eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning
the Lord's body, 1 Cor. 11.29.
Q. Must we no therefore purge our selves from sin, and all
uncleanness of flesh and spirit, before we come to eat and
drink?
uncleanness of flesh and spirit, before we come to eat and
drink?
A. Yes, purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may
be a new lump, as ye are unleavend; 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 unleavened bread of sincerity,
and of truth, 1 Cor. 5.7, 8.
be a new lump, as ye are unleavend; 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 unleavened bread of sincerity,
and of truth, 1 Cor. 5.7, 8.
Q. But must we let our soul be empty after it is thus purged
from all manner of sins?
from all manner of sins?
A. No, as we must wash, and make clean, and put away
the evil of our doings; so we must learn to do well, seek
judgment, relieve the oppressed, judg the fatherless, plead
for the widow; lest the unclean spirit return again, and
11.26.
the evil of our doings; so we must learn to do well, seek
judgment, relieve the oppressed, judg the fatherless, plead
for the widow; lest the unclean spirit return again, and
22
our last estate be worse than our first, Isa. 1.16, 17. Luk.11.26.
Q. And will it not be dangerous to come to this feast, if we
want those spiritual graces which are the wedding-garment of
the soul?
want those spiritual graces which are the wedding-garment of
the soul?
A. Yes, and when the King came in to see the guests, he
saw there a man which had not on a wedding-garment;
and he said unto the servants, bind him hand and foot, and
take him away, and cast him into outer darkness, where
there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, Matt. 22.
11.13.
saw there a man which had not on a wedding-garment;
and he said unto the servants, bind him hand and foot, and
take him away, and cast him into outer darkness, where
there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, Matt. 22.
11.13.
Q. Should not that severe judgment make men afraid to
approach without preparation?
approach without preparation?
A. Yes, for who amongst us can dwell with everlasting
burnings? who amongst us can dwell with devouring
fire? Isa. 33.14.
burnings? who amongst us can dwell with devouring
fire? Isa. 33.14.
Q. But is it not life and happiness promised to the worthy Receivers?
A. Yes, whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood,
hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day:
for my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed,
John 6.54.
hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day:
for my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed,
John 6.54.