❧ A brief and clear Confession of the Christian Faith.  
Containing An hundredth Articles, after the order of the Creed of the Apostles.  
Made and declared by john Gardiner.  
Translated out of French into English by john Brook of ash, next Sandwich. An. 1577.  Rom. 10. 
¶ The belief of the heart justifieth, but to confess with the mouth maketh a man safe.  
Imprinted at London for Edward Wight, and are to be sold at his shop at the little North door of Paul's, at the sign of the Gun. 1579.   

❧ To the Right Honourable Sir William Cecil Knight, Baron of Burgley, Knight of the Honourable order of the Garter, Master of her highness Wards and Liveries, one of the Lords of her majesties privy Counsel, and Lord high Treasoror of England.  
REading this small little Volume, first written in French, and collected by Master john Gardiner (right honourable) and perceiving the same in my simple judgement, under a poor habit and little show, to bear and import great and weighty effect, finding also therein such singular ground of profound learning and rare wisdom, and therewithal such firm approbations and inexpugnable defences, with authorities of holy writ, I thought it no less than needful, and nothing more than necessary to do what in me mightily, to make the same, obvious, usual and familiar unto my brethren of this Realm, by translating the same into our mother tongue. The which thing having once performed and finished, according to my poor talon, and slender skill: although I do not doubt to have followed mine Author directly and truly in sense and exposition, without corruption or abuse: yet finding in myself such imperfections of learning, such barrenness and want of fine Phrase and choice words wherewith to have garnished the same, unneathes I durst of myself, or in mine own name, launch forth my silly bark into the troublesome waves, not doubting (sail she never so sure & true) but sometimes she shallbe countermet with churlish billows, and puffed at with outrageous blasts and violent tempests. The force whereof more safely to defend and withstand, being loath to leave the same in such obscureness and secrecy, as I found it, whereof no Christian man aught to be ignorant, I imagined with myself to seek to anchor in your harborough, being very desirous that this my unsmoothed and rough hewn workmanship might have free passage and safe conduct under your honours favourable protection and defence. In which purpose and pretence, being abashed and more than half dismayed, by the occasions aforesaid: yet grew I in double heart and took triple encouragement, that the authority of the matter itself would more then countervail the rest in your honours favourable acceptance. But when I further considered, whereof I should crave you to be a supporter, namely of the Christian faith (for so the Book is entitled, and containeth an hundredth Articles of the Christian faith) all fearful doubts expelled, assured trust willed me to abide constant in my purpose. For as to your Honourable title, Wisdom hath annexed her enlargement of Authority: so to that Authority, godly zeal having adjoined a fervency of true faith, and to these also humility of spirit, having coupled frank courtesy and benevolence towards all: These I say, right honourable have made me so bold to crave that this my small piece of travail, whatsoever, may receive that hope hath promised, and with my good will would gladly deserve being no ways able, except by prayer to almighty GOD, on whom as duty bindeth I shall not cease continually to call for your Lordships long preservation of life, and much increase of his most comfortable blessings.  
Your honours daily Orator john Brooke.   

❧ john Gardiner unto all the little French Church of Strasburg, assembled together for the Gospel, in the name of jesus Christ: grace, peace and mercy of the Father through jesus Christ our Lord, only Saviour and redeemer, in the virtue of the holy Spirit, be given unto you eternally. Amen.  
WHen I consider the clear lights, the great ingenious and sharp wits, which the Lord in our time hath placed in his Church (dearly beloved brethren and well-beloved in jesus Christ) who never cease day nor night to advance the glory of God, and to promote the kingdom of jesus Christ his son, aswell by their words, as writing, of whom I am not worthy to be a Disciple. I am ashamed and fear jest I be judged raish to put my hand to the pen after them, and chief for to entreat of things so little and common, the which they have entreated of in their Catechisms from the beginning. But the holy desire of you and of many other good brethren, who having heard openly the reading of this little Treatise, instantly requiring to be partakers have incited, yea constrained me to do it, with the great desire that I have of the advancement of the glory of God and of the health of all my brethren: Knowing that God would have all the world to come unto the knowledge of the truth, 
1. Tim. 2.  and by that means to be saved. I know also that for the building of the lords tabernacle made by Moses, 
S. jerom. Exo. 25.  every one brought that he had, some gold and silver, others precious stones, others linen cloth, goats and bucks skins, others wood, and common stones, and all of it was set a work: So I esteem, for the building of this house of the Lord, 
1. Cor. 3. Ephe. 4.  which is his Church, every one may and aught to bring that that he hath, some more, some less, according to the talents which the Lord of the house hath given them, I will content myself to carry little common stones for this building, and do hope that the Master work men will not reject my service, nor my little stones, so that they be fit for the building (as I hope they shallbe, God aiding me. 
Math. ●. Luke. 21. ) The poor widow which did put into the box but two little pieces of silver, was not rejected nor despised of the Lord, but was as much praised as the great rich men which gave a great deal more than she. All that being well considered hath moved me to set forth this little treatise in this time chief, in which the Lord hath the siue in his hand to sift, examine, and repurge his Church, in which it should be very good (in my judgement) that every man's faith should be known, and chiefly of those which make profession of the Gospel, for to teach others, as are the Doctors and Ministers of the word, that the false Prophets and Hypocrites which do bow their shoulders and lean their ears unto false papistical doctrine of antichrist should be known, drived and chased a way from the good & faithful. For that cause I am content, that my faith, in which I will live and die thorough the grace of the Lord be known of all the world.  
Now this little Treatise shall have much need of a second which shall give the reason of that that this here confesseth, for it is one thing to confess the faith, and another to give a reason of the faith. To confess the faith, that is purely, simply, and clearly, to say, and confess with heart and mouth, or by writing that that one believeth of God and 〈◊〉 ●is word. But to give a reason of the faith is to prove and openly to show by tears of the holy scripture, and manifest reasons grounded in the same, what one believeth, and wherefore one believeth, as Saint Peter 
1. Peter. 3.  the Apostle commandeth. The which I have made in times past, in the time of the fairs, (as you have heard and understood) in declaring that confession by Articles, for to give some little taste of the Gospel unto the strangers which came hither, and to make them to understand, what is our faith and religion in which we will live and die, and that we are not heretics, seditious nor blasphemers (as many do esteem us to be) but faithful and true Christians, having and receiving one only jesus Christ for our Lord, Saviour, Mediator and Advocate, believing & hoping in him only, and not in any other, for which also we will venture and jeopard not only our external goods, but also our bodies unto the last drop of our blood. 
Mat. 10.16 Mark. 8. Luke. 9.17.  Knowing that whosoever shall lose his life for the love of him, shall find it, and he that will keep it in renouncing and forsaking him, he shall lose it eternally. This hath been my mark and principal end, all that time there, in which I had not (nor have yet at this present) the leisure to collect and put in writing all the probation arguments & reasons, which I have used aswell of the holy scriptures as of the ancient fathers for to yield a reason of my faith, & to show the truth of the articles thereof therein contained. But if the Lord do give us good peace, and keep us yet still in this place (as I hope that he will do thorough his mercy, although we have not merited it) I promise' to give unto you the second treatise correspondant unto this here, in which I will give the reason of my faith, as in this I will declare and confess (with the help of the Lord (the verity of all these Articles which are in number an hundredth, aswell by the word of God, as by the writings of the ancient Fathers, according to my little faculty & the grace which the Lord shall give me, and then I will content myself that I have lived in this world. In the mean time dear brethren, I pray you to receive and take in good part this little gift and present, of the hand of your lawful brother and faithful friend, hoping to receive a greater. I assure you that the only word of the Lord is the fair and large garden of pleasure, within which I putting myself, have gathered these goodly sweet smelling flowers, and made this fair garland of triumph, for to put it upon the heads of the true faithful Christians (such as now are.) And I have taken nothing from the sink, puddle and takes of Luiterim, nor from other such like papistical doctrines, Antechristians and inventions of men. For out of such sinks puddles and infections such flowers spring not forth, but rather thorns briars and thistles for to feed and crown the Asses of antichrist.  
I may boldly say, that there is nothing in this little Treatise, but that I can show and prove it by the word of God, the which I have followed and not the divers opinions of men: For I have not sworn in any man's word, but in that same of jesus Christ, upon which my faith is builded, and not upon the opinion of men: therefore I have spoken here and written freely that which I feel in my heart, without having regard unto any other then unto my only Lord and Master jesus Christ.  
This may serve at all times for a pattern & rule of the confession of faith, to all those which will declare themselves to be of the number of our assembly following the holy custom & most allowable, of this little Church, that all those which will participate or communicate with us in the holy table of the Lord, first of all aught to make public confession of their faith, that is to say: to declare before the assembly the faith and knowledge, which the Lord hath given unto them of the word and Gospel of his son jesus Christ, that they may be known and manifested unto all the congregation, to be of the number of the faithful and true members of Christ, worthy to perticipat of the gifts, graces and benefits of the Lord with the brethren. As also of late under the law all strangers which would communicate or participate the paschal Lamb with the people of Israel, 
Exo. 12.  aught first to renounce all Idolatry to receive circumcision, & to make profession of all the law, and religion of God, given by Moses, promising to live and walk in the same all the days of their life: And by that means were admitted to the Passeover, to eat and communicate with the other, and not otherwise. 
Exo. 12.  As it is written in the book of the law. Truly it is more to perticipat in the holy table of the Lord (that is to say in the holy Sacrament of the Supper) than to eat the paschal Lamb: for somuch as the clearness is more than the shadow, 
Heb. 10. Collos. 2.  and the verity more than the figure: For the law was but the shadow and figure of the verity, the which we have present before us. If then there were under the law observed and kept such discipline in the Church of God, among the faithful, how much more aught it to be observed under the verety in the sheepfold of jesus Christ, which is his Church? 
joh. 10. Exo. 20. 1. Pet. 5. Math. 7.15  who commandeth the shepherds thereof to know the sheep, and call them by their name, and diligently to consider their estate, jest they should give the children's bread unto dogs, and the pearls unto hogs. Then as Moses the servant of God did not admit unto the Passeover any strangers, before they first declared their faith: so the good & faithful ecclesiastical pastor, aught not to admit (according to my advise, saved always a better judgement) unto the holy table any strangers, whose faith is unto him unknown, but to endeavour himself first to know their faith and religion by all means privately and particularly, if he cannot publikelye before the Church and Congregation, that he may witness of their faith before all the brethren: And by that means to admit them with the other.  
This policy and lowable discipline, was kept and observed in this our little Church (as you know) from the beginning, unto this day: The Lord thorough his grace, grant that it may long continued, to the praise of his name: For by the same many ignorant are taught, in the rudiments of the Christian faith: And there knowledge is always augmented, and there is none of us but receiveth great profit. To this then this little Treatise may well serve for a pattern and rule (as it is said) for the young ones, simple and ignorant, who may take what they think good and leave the rest for to avoid prolixity: therefore I have divided and distinguished it by Articles. Furthermore, this Confession is divided in to four principal points: In the first I show what I believe of the holy Trinity, chief of the eternal Father and of the things made by him, of the first creation of man, and of his fall: In the second what I believe of the Son which is the second person, and of the things by him made, chief of the repairing and restoring of man: In the third, what I believe of the holy ghost, which is the third person of the holy trinity by whom man (made by the Father, and restored by the Son) is maintained and kept in his being: In the fourth, what I believe of the holy Catholic Church, and of the things concerning the same. That done, I show and declare the great fruits proceeding and coming from that faith, which are three in number, as you may see towards the end: And all of it is made after the order of the symbol or creed, which we call commonly the Apostles creed, which hath been received at all times without any contraduction in the Catholic Church. And let no man marvel, although I multiply these Articles unto an hundredth, although that the creed containeth but twelve: For every one of the twelve, containeth other twelve and more. Do then as the honey Bees, who of all flowers do gather profit: By that means you shall augment more and more in faith and knowledge of the Lord, & in charity and love towards your neighbours, for therein dependeth all the law and the Prophets. I beseech that good God and celestial father which hath delivered you from the tirraunye of antichrist, and hath drawn you from darkness, error and ignorance, opening your inward eyes, declaring himself unto you by his Gospel, that it would please him to augment always his gifts, graces and benedictions in you, to direct and keep you by his holy spirit. Unto eternal life, in the name of his son jesus Christ our Lord and one-saviour. Amen.  
From Strasburg. 24. july. 1549.   

¶ john Brook to the Christian Reader.  
THis little Pamphlet (gentle Reader) may seem unto thee a thing of small value and less importance, if thou make thy estimation thereof by the small outward show and feeling: But if in this little and light work to the eye, be included great and weighty matter, if in this brief and short Treatise be wrapped and sufficiently set forth long and manifold causes, how much the more than is it to be embraced and esteemed. I promise thee nothing, but for gramrecye, offer thee my good will and travail, I read it in French, written by master john Gardiner: and finding it pithy, profitable and necessary to be read of all Christians, for thine only commodity and comfort I have translated him into thy mother tongue. If in this translation thou find any imperfection, let my zeal & good meaning towards thee, countervail or rather prevail to gain thy friendly acceptance, and do not therein condemn the thing or the Author, who undoubtedly needeth no supporter or defender, but bringeth with him munition and defence sufficient. But adventure (I say) the reading as I did at the first, if thou find him worthy, make it a jewel unto thee, bear him daily in thy hand, or button him near thy heart in thy bosom, he is neither heavy nor cumbrous, nor will be unto thee very chargeable. God's holy spirit be thy guide in reading and understanding, to the establishment and confirmation of thy Christian faith. Farewell.   

❧ A brief and clear Confession, of the Christian Faith: containing a hundredth Articles, after the order of the Apostles Creed.  

I believe in GOD, the Father almighty, maker of Heaven and Earth.  

The .1. Article.  
FIrst of all, 
Deut. 6. Esa. 6.45. Mala. 2. Gene. 1. Ps. 33.101. Esa. 64. jere. 23. Acts. 4.17  I believe in one GOD, only in essence and substance, three in person, the Father, the Son and the holy Ghost. The Father as the Original and beginning of all things, aswell visible as invisible: Of whom also they depend, aswell in their being as conservation. And he dependeth not but of himself, eternal, without end and without beginning. 
Psa. 2.110, john. 1.3, 5, 14.  The Son, as the heavenly word, the sapience and wisdom of the Father, 
Math. 3.17 Luke. 3.  which is eternally & before all worlds, begotten of the Father of his proper substance and nature: Because that in him shineth his proper carecter & Image, otherwise invisible unto the mortal man. 
2. Cor. 4. Colos. 1. Hebre. 1. Ps. 51.143 joh. 3.14.15.16.  The holy Ghost, as the virtue and eternal power, which is neither made nor created, nor begotten, but proceeding from the father and the Son eternally, as alone proceeding of two persons.   


Deut. 4.23 Esa. 44.45. joh. 1.5.10 Exod 20. Deut 6.32. M●la. 2. joh. 10.17. P●a. 24.50. Roma. 11. job. 9  The 2 Article.  
I Believe that these three persons, are of one essence and substance, nature. Authority, power, will, goodness, wisdom and eternity. And that these three are but one spiritual substance, eternal, without end and beginning, true, good, just, merciful, of sovereign power and wisdom, having and containing in himself all goodness, having no need of any thing.   

The 3. Article.  

Deut. 6.30 Math. 4.  I Believe that GOD being so only one in essence and three in person aught only to be served, honoured, 
1. Timo. 1. Apoca. 14.  feared, loved, adored and invocated in all our necessities, as he which can and will provide for them and none other: And therefore I say and confess, 
Esay. 55. jere. 2. Psalm. 50. Math. 6.7.  that I believe in one God, that is to say: I acknowledge and receive him for one only Lord, Master and Saviour, of whom proceedeth all my goodness, with whom I can do all things, Without whom I can do nothing. 
john. 15. Phil. ●. Psalm. 91. Gen. 17. Levit. 26. Deut. 28. Psa. 37.55. Esai. 49.99 Math. 6.7. 1. Peter. 5.  In him alone I do trust and fix all my heart, hoping that he will take my part against all men: assisting me always through his holy spirit, and delivering me from all perils and dangers, through his grace and mercy without my merits, administering unto me all things necessary, aswell for the soul as body: as a good father, as he promised me by his word.   

The .4. Article.  
I Believe that he being altogether puissant, 
Gene. 1. Psa 33.101  hath of nothing from the beginning, created Heaven and Earth, and all things that are therein. That is to say: 
jere. 32. Mala. 2. job. 1.2. Lament. 3. Acts. 17. Hebre. 1.  all things aswell celestial as terrestrial, visible as invisible, reasonable as unreasonable, sensible as insensible: Whom he keepeth, guideth, ruleth and governeth, through his divine wisdom, without whose providence nothing cometh to pass, neither in this world, nor in the other.   

The .v. Article.  

Gen. 1.2.5.9 Ephe. 4. Colos. 3. Sapient. 2. Eccle. 17.  I Believe that the same God the father, Son and holy Ghost, after having created all things, created and made man, after his own Image and likeness, that is to say: immortal, good, just, true, sage, wise, merciful and perfect in all things, perticipating unto him his goodness, righteousness and other perfections of God, having a will that can accord and agree in all and by all unto the will of his Lord, 
Eccle. 15.  and that altogether by grace, without any merit.   

The vi Article.  
I Do also believe that as the Lord hath created all things celestial and terrestial, for the service of man, 
Gene. 1. Psalm. 19 1. Cor. 3. Sapien. 13. Roma. 1.  & to the end that by his creatures, he should come unto the knowledge of the Creator, 
Gene. 2.  that also he hath made & fashioned Man for himself, that of him and by him, he should be known, loved, feared, served and honoured: (this is the sovereign goodness of man) and that in him should shine the Image of the heavenly virtues and perfections in all good works, 
1. Cor. 6. 1. Thes. 4.  
john. 17. Ephe. 2. Colos. 1. 2. Peter. 2. jude. 1. Apoca. 12. Math. 25.  the which GOD hath prepared that we should walk in them, unto his honour and glory, and to the confusion of the adversary, and by that means the ruin of the Angels was restored and man possessed the eternal kingdom made and prepared for him before the constitution of the world.   

The vii Article.  
I Believe the same man to have been constituted by the Lord God, 
Gene. 1. Psalm. 8. Gene. 3. Roma. 5. Dani. 7. Mat. 11. 2●  master and ruler over all creatures, the which he did lose by his sin, aswell for himself as for all his posterity: the which domination and signory, 
john. 8.13 Phil. 2.  I believe now to appertain unto one only jesus Christ very GOD and man, and unto those to whom he will bestow it, as are the faithful and not unto the infidels and reprobate.   

The viii Article.  

Gene. 3. Psalm. 49.  I Believe, the first man thorough the subtlety and craft of Satan to be fallen from the excellentness, in which God created him, agreeing thorough his free will (which then he had) to the canteloas suggestion of the Serpent, 
Eccle. 15.  whereby he hath lost the benefits which the Lord gave unto him. 
Ps. ●. 13.52 Eccle. 17. Oseas. 13.  In so much that of wise he become foolish, of just, unjust: of true, a liar: of perfect, altogether unperfect: having afterward a will altogether depraved, 
Rom. 3.5.7 Phil. 2. 1. Cor. 2 john. ●. 15  which can not, nor will not agree with the will of GOD: but altogether unto the will of the Devil, the world, the flesh and of sin: not able to do any thing of himself, but evil, for that he is altogether carnal, captive, bond and sold under sin: 
Roma. 7.  Behold the free (or rather) the bond will of man for the estate of of this present life.   

The ix Article.  
I Believe that that discord and corruption of nature, 
Gene. 8. Ps. 14, 140 Esay. 59 john. 8. Roma. 3.5, 1. Cor. 15.  was not only in Adam because of his sin: but also in all men generally which descend from him (one only jesus Christ except) insomuch that they are all according to their nature corrupted, unrighteous, liars, ignorant, 
jere. 10. john. 15. Roma. 7. 1. Cor. 3. john. 3. Titus. 3.  ingrateful and unperfect altogether: Not being able according to their nature, to do, think, speak nor will any thing which pleaseth God, until such time as they are regenerated and renewed by the spirit of God.   

The ten Article.  
I Believe that this corruption of nature (otherwise called, 
Psalm. 51. Ephe. 2. Roma. 7. Gene. 2. job. 4.5. john. 5. Roma. 5. Roma. 6  original sin) is the beginning & root of all other sins, by which do come unto us, all the miseries, calamities and adversities which we suffer in this life, aswell in body as in spirit, and in the end double death, to wit of body and soul. These are the fruits and rewards for sin: 
3. Reg. 19 Roma. 11. john. 10. Roma. 8. 1. Timo. 2.  But although that the same is due and common unto all men generally, yet nevertheless the Lord through his mercy, hath reserved a certain number, (to him only known) whom he hath drawn from this corrupted mass, & hath sanctified and cleansed them in the blood of his Son jesus Christ. And by that means hath made the vessels of election to honour, 
Rama. 9 1. Timo. 2.  apt and fit to all good works. And therefore.   

The xi Article.  

Math. 25. Ephe. 1. 2. Timot. 1. Titus. 1.3. Roma. 8. Galath. 4. Esay. 49. Psal. 113. Math. 7.  I Believe that the Father in jesus Christ his Son, by the holy Ghost, hath elected and chosen those that be his, according to his good will, before the foundation & constitution of the world, whom he hath predestinated to eternal life, because they were his Children by adoption, having greater care of them, 
job. 1.2.21  without any comparison, than the best Father could have, of the best child of this world, not suffering that any thing should come from the heavens above, or from the earth beneath, 
Psal. 94.73 Math. 8. 1●  but it should be for their utility and great profit.   

The xii Article.  
I Believe that the father by his Son with the holy Ghost from the beginning, 
jere. 31. Ephe. 1.2.3 1. Peter. 1. Gone 1.22. Galath. 3. Deut. 18. Esay. 40.  hath always seen to the restoring of man, to whom he manifested himself, yea after the sin, making unto him a promise of the blessed seed, by which the Serpents head must be broken, and the faithful aught to receive blessing by that promise, 
Gen. 17.21 2. Reg. 7. Psal. 132. Luke. 1. Gala 4.  (afterwards oftentimes confirmed and ratefyed to the holy fathers) the man (otherwise in despair in his sin) being relieved, aided and comforted, hath lived in hope unto the exhibiting and accomplishing of the same.   

The xiii. Article.  
I Do also believe that after this promise, 
Exod. 19 Levit. 18. Ezech. 20. Roma. 10. Galath. 3.  the Lord hath prescribed and given the law of the commandments to man, promising life unto those that keep them, and death unto those that transgress them, 
Baru 4.  and he giveth them not that man should seek justification, 
Exo. 20.21 22.23. Ezech. 20. 1. Timo. 1,  health or life in them: but for the policy, peace and tranquillity of his people: for to defend the good, and to chastise & correct the wicked, and to hold and keep every one in his office: 
Rom. 3.5.7 1. Cor. 15. Galath. 3.  And chief that by the same, man should better know himself, his disease, poorness and imperfection. And by that means should have occasion to humble himself before the law giver, and to seek remedy, health and life, otherwise, to wit, in the holy seed promised, which is jesus Christ. For that cause it is called a Schoolmaster, 
Gone 3.17. Deut. 18. Acts. 3. Galath. 3. Rom. 3.5.7 Galath. 3. john. 5. Levit. 26. Deu. 27.28 Gala 3. 2. Cor. 3. Gene. ●. Math. 27. Luke. 22. john. 18. Galath. 3.  for to come unto Christ: the which also serveth us as a glass for to know our vices, our spiritual leprosy, and to augment that knowledge. In like manner it serveth us for an accuser, to accuse us before the Lord: and instead of a severe & cruel judge, for to declare the wrath & judgement of GOD upon us, the condemnation and eternal death, & by that means to fear us, and to make us in despair, until such time as we be comforted by the Gospel, which is the faith in jesus Christ, by the which we are exempt and delivered from all those maledictious. These are the Offices of the law, the which are turned to us in goodness, by the saith of the Gospel, the which hath oppositive offices and altogether contrary. Furthermore, 
Psalm. 19 Roma. 7. 1. Timo. 1. Hebre. 7. Rom. 1.7.8. Acts. 15.  I confess that the law of God is good, right, holy and perfect, and whereas it bringeth nothing to perfection, the fault is not in it, but in us: which are altogether imperfect, nor we can not any thing at all accomplish it, not to touch it with the lest finger: And therefore.   

The xiiii Article.  
I Believe and confess jesus Christ to be the fullness, 
Rom. 10. Galath. 3. 1. Cor. 1. Math. 5. Roma. 8. Psa. 18.32. 130 143. Exod. 34. D●niel 9 Acts. 15.  the end and consummation of the law, to the righteousness of all believers, to whom & by whom only, all the promises of the father are fulfilled, who also alone hath perfectly satisfied the law, the which none among men could do, for somuch as the law commandeth impossible things to the corruptible man, the which nevertheless he shall fulfil, not in working: 
Rom. 8.11. Galath. 3.  but in believing, as also the law is fulfilled by faith and not by works, and by that means he shall find the righteousness of faith available before the Lord, and not those of works, 
Rom. 10. Phil. 3. Hebre. ●.  the which bringeth nothing unto perfection.    

Behold as touching the first point of my faith, what I believe of the Father & of the things made by him, and consequently of the holy Trinity, with the fall of man.  
Let us now come unto the second point, which is of the Son of GOD, and of the things done by h●m, chief of the restoring and repairing of man.   

I believe in jesus Christ his only Son our Lord, which was conceived by the holy Ghost, borne of the Virgin MARY: suffered under PONCE PILATE, was crucified dead & buried, descended into Hell: the third day he arose again from death. He ascended into Heaven, there he sitteth at the right hand of GOD the Father almighty. From thence shall he come to judge the quick and the dead.  

The xu Article.  
I Believe that jesus Christ is very God and very man, 
Esay. 7.9. Math. 1. john. 1.3. Psal. 2.110 Roma. 1.9. Heb. 1.2.3. 1. john. 4.5. Hebre. 2.4.  having two nature's inte●mixts in one person, the divine nature according to which he is the natural Son of God, equal to the Father in all & through al. And humane nature, according to the which he is very man in all and by all, like unto us, sin only excepted.   

The xvi Article.  
I Believe that jesus Christ the Son of GOD in the fullness of time prefixed and preordained of the Father from everlasting, 
Roma. 8. Galath. 4. Phil. 2. Esay. 7. Math. 1.  was sent into the world by the Father, & was made very man, 
Luke. 1. Galath. 4. Gene. 3.22. 2. Reg. 7. Psalm. 132  conceived within the womb of a Virgin called Mary, of the proper substance and of pure blood purified of her: because that he was found very Man, descending from the seed of Adam, No, Abraham, Isaac, jacob, David, and of the other fathers, to whom the promise was made.   

The xvii Article.  

Math. 1. Luke. 1, job. 14. Psalm. 51.  I Do also believe all that to be done by the operation of the holy Ghost, without the work of man, to the end that all should be holy, undefiled, pure and clean, and by that means our conception was purified and sanctified, the which of itself was marred and defiled with sin.   

The xviii Article.  

Math. 1. Luke. 2. Esay. 7.9. Ezech. 44.  I Believe the same jesus Christ to be borne of the Virgin Mary, without any sin, and without breaking of her virginity: because that by his pure and holy nativity, he purifieth and sanctifieth ours, the which of it self is altogether marred and defiled with sin. 
john. 3. Ephe. 2. Gene. 1.2.3 Math. 9 1. Tim. 1. Esay. 9 john. 3. Roma. 8.  In that nativity of Christ I see and consider the first estate and condition of man: with his fall which was the cause of the coming of Christ into this world, likewise the grace and benevolence of GOD the Father: who hath represented and given unto us his only begotten son for to serve us: And the love of the son, 
Phil. 2. 2. Cor. 8. Gala. 4. Rome. 8.  who hath abased and humbled himself for to elevate and exalt us, hath made himself poor for to enrich us, and hath himself subjecteth for to affranchise us, and he is made the son of man, for to make us the children of God and possessors of eternal life: 
john. 1. Ephe. 5. jere. 18. Luke 15. Roma. 5.  by whose coming man's nature was restored and made noble, and the man that was lost, broken and destroyed, was raised up again, & set again in his first place, and hath recovered all that which he lost throw sin and more: 
Roma. 8. Colos. 2. Ephe. 2. Titus. 3.  For by that means all the treasures, graces and benedictions of the Lord are given and bestowed upon him, and that altogether thorough grace without any merits.   

The xix Article.  

Esay. 26 Math. 2 Mark. 3. Luke. 8. john. 1. 1. Cor. 4. Galath. 4. Roma. 10. Math. 10.  I Do also believe and know by the holy scriptures an other conception and nativity of Christ, which is spiritual, the which I say to be of no lesser dignity, than the first. That is, that every faithful man, aught to conceive in his heart and mind jesus Christ, thorough a lively and true faith, and to bring him forth thorough the manifest confession of the mouth, as often as need shall require. 
S. August.  I esteem that conception and nativity to be so necessary unto salvation, that if the Virgin mary had not more blessedly borne jesus Christ in her heart & mind, then in her womb, the carnal maternity would not have much profited her. By that means we are called, 
Psalm. 27. Math. 12. john. 20.  the mothers, brethren and sisters of jesus Christ.   

The twenty Article.  
I Believe that the same jesus Christ is verily the Christ, 
Psal. 110. Esay. 61. Mat. 1.16. Luke. 2. joh. 1.4.6. Heb. 7.9. Deut. 18. Acts. 3. 1. Reg. 10.16. 3. Reg. 1.19 Levit. 8. Psal. 45. Esai. 61. Luke. 4.  that is to say: the Messiah, the anointed by the holy Ghost, because that he should be the true King, Prophet: and great Priest of all the believers, the which was promised in the Law, of whom also have spoken all the Prophets. This anointing of Christ was not corporal with a material and visible oil: as the same of Kings, Priests and Prophets in times past: But spiritual with an invisible oil, which is the grace & gifts of the holy Ghost, of which he was filled above all other, 
Psal. 133. john. 1. Ephe. 4. Acts. 11.  insomuch that that ointment is descended unto us, which have felt and proved the savour thereof, whereby also we bear the name of a Christian, that is to say anointed.   

The xxi. Article.  
I Believe that that Sacrifisor jesus Christ, 
Heb. 7.9.10  not to have been levitical or carnal, 
Levit. 1.2.4.7.8. Heb. 10. 1. john. 2.  for to offer up and sacrifice, bullocks, kine, or such like things, as Aaron did and all his successors: but spiritual, (yet nevertheless real and true) for to offer and sacrifice himself, that is to say: his body and his blood for the remission of the sins of all the world, 
Dani. 7. john. 19 Luke. 17. Rom. 8.  as also his kingdom is not of this carnal world, but spiritual, the which consisteth in the guiding and governing of his by his holy spirit, over whom he reigneth by his word, 
1. Cor. 4. 2. Cor. 10.  and to the utter destruction of all his adversaries, which are sin, death, hell, Satan and all infidels, wicked and reprobate, which rebel against the word of the Gospel.   

The xxii Article.  

Mat. 5.6.7.24.27. Luke. 21.23 joh. 17.19.  I believe that jesus Christ hath truly exercised these three offices, to weet, Prophet, King, and Priest, not only in this world, he being a mortal man as we are: 
Rom. 8. Heb. 9 Act. 7.  But also that he yet doth exercise them daily in heaven before the face of his father, where he standeth and appeareth continually for us, and thereof being taught by his spirit, aideth, maintaineth, and defendeth those that are his, and therefore he is called Prophet, 
Gen. 13. Psal. 110. Heb. 7.  King, and high Priest after the order of Melchisedech, which is eternal, and not after the order of Aaron which ended with the Law.   

The xxiii Article.  
I Believe that the same jesus Christ after that he had preached the Gospel in the country of judea & Galilee by the space of three years or there abouts, 
Math. 4.9. Luke. 4. Ephe. 2. john. 5.6.7.8.9.10.11 12.  declaring himself the natural son of God, aswell by his miraculous works, as by the words, and writings of the Prophets, 
Math. 26. Mark. 14. Luke. 22. john. 18. Act. 2.4. Mat. 27. Mark. 15. Luke. 23. john. 19  that he hath been unjustly and falsely accused by the Priests, who when that they had taken him, in their counsel did unjustly condemn him to death, being bound and chained, brought him before Pilate, Provost at that time in jerusalem, who at the instance and request of the said Priests, hath unjustly and without any cause condemned him to death, the most horrible and ignominious that one can think or excogitate: That is to be put on the cross and to be crucified between two thieves, as though he had been the prince and captain of them, 
Esai. 53. Sapi. 2. Gala. 3 Philip. 2.  the which he endured and suffered willingly, and innocently without deserving it: for otherwise he had not satisfied for us, and his cross had profited us nothing at all.   

The xxiiii Article.  
I Believe also that he being on the same cross, 
Luke. 23. john. 19 Psal. 16.18 Acts. 2.  dying and yielding up his spirit to God his father, that he descended into hell, that is to say: that he verily felt and experimented the great distress and pain of death, with the pains & flames of hell, 
Esai. 53. 2. Cor. 5. Gala. 3. 1. Pet. 2.  that is to say, the great furor, ire, and the severe judgement of God upon him, as though he had been man and half damned, insomuch that he was constrained to cry with a loud voice: My God, 
Psal. 22. Math. 2. Mark. 15.  my God, why hast thou forsaken me. Behold simply what I understand by the descending of Christ into hell. Furthermore, I know that this Article was not at the first in the creed, and that many have understanded and interpreted it otherwise, and have thought Christ verily and in very deed to have descended into hell into the place of the dampened, aleadging the text of Saint Peter, 
1. Pet. 3.4.  the which I confess to be covered and hid from me at this present. The Lord grant us to open the gate and give us entrance into those mysteries.   

The xxv Article.  
I Believe all that to have been done, not for him which never did any sin, 
Esai. 53. john 8.14. 1. Pet. 2. 1. john. 3. Esai. 53. john. 3. Rom. 5.6. 2. Cor. 5. Gala. 3 Colos. 1. 1. john. 2. Gene. 2. Levit. 26. Deut. 28. Eze. 18.33. Rom. 5.6. Ephe. 2. Colos. 2. 1. Thes. 5. Hebr. 9.10. 1. Pet. 2.3.  in whose mouth there was never found any fraud nor lying: but for us poor and miserable sinners, whose place he held in the cross as a pledge, where he represented the person of all the sinners, which ever have been, are or shallbe until the end of the world. And because that those have by their sins deserved to feel and try the extreme dolours of death, to be forsaken of God, and of all creatures, to feel the furor, ire and severe judgement of God upon them: Christ who was their pledge did satisfy for them in the cross, & did feel all that same and that to affranchise us & deliver us from all these pains from the furor, ire, and judgement of God, from condemnation and eternal death. Herein I reject and esteem as fables all the limb of the fathers and of little children, purgatory and other such follies, dreams and abuses, which men invented and found out, without the word of God. 
Act. 11. Mat. 25. Luke. 16. Math. 7.  For I believe and receive but two places in the other world, to wit, paradise for the faithful & elect with the Angels, and hell for the Infidels and reprobate with the devils.   

The xxvi Article.  
I Believe & consider that death and passion (as also all other mysteries) of jesus Christ, 
Math. 14. Acts. 7.12. 1. Pet. 2. Esai. 53. john. 3. Rom. 5.6.8 2. Cor. 5. Gala. 3 Colos. 1. Heb. 2.  not only as touching the history as a patron and example for to imitate and follow, as the same of holy men which have died for the lords quarrel: But also chief touching the cause, fruits and use of the same, thereby to know the gravity & burden of my sins, the grace and mercy of the father and the love of the son, 
1. john. 2. 1. Pet. 2.  by which we are reconciled with God, delivered from the tyranny of the devil, released and restored into the liberty of the spirit. That is the glass without spot for to make us know our filthiness: 
john. 13. Heb. 9.10. Apoc. 1 Rom. 8. 2. Cor. 5. Gala. 4. 1. Tim. 2. 1. joh. 2.  The laver or clear fountain, for to wash & cleanse us, and the infinite treasure for to satisfy and content our creditors. Of whom and by whom only, God's divine justice hath been fully satisfied, for all the sins of all those which have been, are and shallbe until the end of the world. 
Gala. 3 Ephe. 2. Colos. 2. john. 14. Rom. 3.5. Ephe. 1 Hebr. 1. Apoc. 1  And therefore I believe and confess the condemnation of jesus Christ to be my absolution: his crucifying to be my deliverance: his descending into hell, to be my ascending into heaven: his death, to be my life: his blood, to be my washing and purgatory, by whom only I am washed, purified & made clean from all my sins, so that I neither receive nor believe that there is any other purgatory, neither in this world, nor in the world to come, by which I may be purged, but the only blood of jesus Christ, 
Heb. 9  by which all is purged and made clean for ever.   

The xxvii Article.  

Apoc. 20. Rom. 6. Colos. 3. 2. Tim. 1. Hebr. 2. Esai. 53. john. 19 Rom. 5.  I Believe that jesus Christ by the sacrifice of his body, that he offered upon the tree of the cross, hath defaced and destroyed sin, death and Satan, with all his kingdom, & hath altogether consummated and finished the work of our redemption, & hath ended and abolished all other sacrifices: insomuch that from henceforth we must not look nor seek for any other propitiatory sacrifice then this, neither for the living nor for the dead. For if we sin willingly, 
Heb. 10.  after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no other sacrifice for the remission of sins, than this here, by which Christ alone, hath consecrated for ever all those which are sanctified. And therefore.   

The xxviii. Article.  

Mat. 26. Mar. 14. Luke. 22. 1. Cor. 11.  I Believe the holy Supper of the Lord, not to be a sacrifice: but only a remembrance and commemoration of that holy sacrifice of jesus Christ. Therefore, 
john. 6. Colos. 3.  it aught not to be adored and worshipped as God, nor Christ to be in the same: but only in himself out of all corruptible elements. In like manner I believe and confess, that the papistical Mass 
The Mass  is an invention and ordinance of man, a sacrifice of Antichrist, 
Heb. 10.  and a forsaking of the sacrifice of jesus Christ, that is to say: of his death and passion, 
Mat. 23.  that it is a stinking and infectious sepulchre which covereth and hideth the merit of the blood of Christ. And therefore it aught to be abolished, and the holy Supper of the Lord restored and set again in his first estate.   

The xxix Article.  
I Also do believe that as the Prophet jonas 
jonas. 1.2.  was in the Whale's belly (which is a place of corruption) three days and three nights, 
Mat. 22.  without being any thing at all corrupted, from whom he came out the third day, without any hurt, safe & sound: that even so jesus Christ after his death, 
Mat. 27. Mark. 15. Luke. 23. john. 19  was put into a new sepulchre (which is a place of corruption) within which he was three days and three nights, not being touched with any infection, 
Psal. 16.30 Acts. 2.  stinking or corruption, but always abode safe and sound, for to declare the virtue of his blood, for to accomplish the writing of the holy Prophets, 
Esai. 11.  and for to verify the verity aswell of his body as of his death, with which I believe the law to be buried, 
2. Cor. 3. Gala. 4. Ephe. 2. 1. Tim. 1.  abrogated, and abolished to the faithful, not as touching the obligation that they should be no more bound to live and walk after the same: 
john. 3.8. Rom. 8. 1. john. 3.  but only as touching the condemnation, that is to say, that the transgression of the same, doth not condemn them at the judgement of God, through the faith that they have in Christ. And therefore within one sepulchre, I comprehend three things buried, 
Rom. 6. Gala. 5.6. Colos. 3.  that is to say, Christ, the law, and all the faithful, which aught to be crucified and buried with Christ through the mortification of their flesh.   

The xxx Article.  
I Believe that even as jesus Christ was delivered to death for our sins, 
Rom. 4.6. 1. Cor. 15. Mat. 28. john. 20. Rom. 1. john. 2. Oseas. 13. joh. 12.16. Luke. 11. Heb. 2.  that so he arose again the third day for our justification to immortal life: wherein he declared himself openly to be very God and very man, triumphing over all his enemies, having confounded and beaten down all his enemies, that is to say, the world, sin, death, hell, and Satan: not so much for himself, as for us which believe in him, knowing his victory to be ours, & that in him and through him we vanquish those same enemies having victory over them, to the honour of God and our great profit.   

The xxxi Article.  
I Believe & consider that resurrection of jesus Christ not only as touching the story, 
john. 11. Mat. 27. Luke. 7.  as the same of Lazarus, or other like which have been miraculoslye raised up through the virtue and power of the Lord, 
Ose. 6. 1. Cor. 15. Phil. 3. Colos. 1. 1. Pet. 1.3.  but also as the example and efficient cause thereof, as the seals and marks of the general resurrection of all the believers: for as Christ is raised the third day after his death, through his divine virtue, into immortal life: so by the virtue of the same, I hope to rise one day, 
1. Thes. 4.  in body and soul, into eternal life, afterwards to be here in this world raised in spirit through a new and true faith, in newness of life, 
Rom. 6. Colos. 3. Gala. 5.6.  mortifying and crucifying the flesh with the affections and concupiscences of world, the which aught to be dead and crucified unto us, and we unto it: 
Rom. 6.  for we are buried with Christ in his death, by the baptism, that as he rose again from death by the glory of the father without ever dying any more: that so we should walk in newness of life without ever serving any more sin, 
Colos. 3.  seeking always chief the things above, celestial & eternal: Forsaking the earthly & transitory things of this world, knowing that we have not here a continual City: 
Hebr. 13.  but let us seek that which is to come.   

The xxxii. Article.  
I Believe also and confess, 
Mark. 16. Luke. 24. Act. 1. Psal. 68 Ephe. 4. john. 3.17.  that jesus Christ the forty day after his resurrection, visibly, and before all his Apostles eyes went up into heaven, that is to say: in the majesty of God his father, in glory and eternal felicity, in which he was before, he came into this miserable world, for to be made man, yea before the constitution of the world, that is to say: from everlasting.   

The xxxiii. Article.  
I Believe that he ascended in heaven for to accomplish and fulfil, 
Ephe. 4. john. 16.  and to make an end of his pilgrimage: 
john. 14. Heb. 10.  also for to prepare us the place, and to open the way for us in heaven, that we may there ascend after him, 
john. 17. Ephe. 12.  and follow him as our head, for to be eternally united with him in glory. The which we begin here through faith: 
1. Cor. 12. Ephe. 4.  in like manner because, that of the same he beautifieth his Church, in sending the Comforter unto his Apostles (as he promised them) by which they should be comforted, 
joh. 14.16. Acts. 1.2.  instructed, and directed in all truth: and the Church sustained, maintained, and defended, against the winds of Satan and all the gates of hell. 
Mat. 16.    

The xxxiiii Article.  

joh. 14. Rom. 8. Heb. 9  I Also believe that he is ascended into heaven, for to be there our Patron, Intercessor, Mediator, and Advocate, because that now he appeareth for us, before his father's face obtaining for us grace & abundance of all goodness. 
Mat. 11. Acts. 4. 1. Tim. 2. 1. john. 2.  In so much that I know nor receive any other Mediator between God and men, nor any other Advocate, nor Intercessor before GOD the father then his only son jesus Christ our Lord. Unto him I draw myself, of him I content myself, and any other I will not seek nor look for, fearing to blaspheme the name of God, giving unto the creature that which belongeth unto the Creator, or unto the servant that which appertaineth unto the master.   

The xxxv Article.  
I Believe that all those which demand, search, 
Esai. 55. jere. 2. Math. 11. joh. 14.16. 1. Tim. 2. 1. john. 3.  or receive any other Mediator, Intercessor, or Advocate, towards God the father then jesus Christ his son, do abuse and dream themselves greatly, yea do blaspheme against God, and do dishonour unto jesus Christ, and to the Saints by which they pray. 
Mat. 3.11.17. Luke. 3.9. john. 1.3.6. 2. Cor. 4. Colos. 1. Heb. 1  For as God the father would be known, served, loved, feared, and honoured in his son jesus Christ & not by any other means, so would he be prayed unto and called upon in his son and by the only name of his son, & not otherwise. For besides jesus Christ there is no other God. Herein I think not nor will not speak evil of the blessed Saints 
The saints.  which are in heaven with the Lord, but will honour and reverence them, as lawful & faithful servants of the Lord, 
1. Cor. 3.6. Rom. 12. Ephe. 4.5.  as the Temple of the holy Ghost and true members of Christ, 
1. Cor. 4.11 Phil. 3. 2. Thes. 3. Heb. 6.11.15  and will have them as mirrors and examples before my eyes, for to follow them aswell in their good life & conversation: as in their faith and holy doctrine. Furthermore of them or by them, I look for none other thing, knowing that all my goodness, aid and help, proceedeth from one only God, 
Psal. 121. Esai. 45. jere. 2. Oseas. 13. Rom. 11. jam. 1. Colos. 1. 2. Thes. 1.  by the means of one only jesus Christ, who hath made the Saints worthy of his glory by his free grace, by which also (as I believe) he will make me worthy with them for to be their companion in glory, because that all together do give honour, praise and glory unto him alone, 
Apoc. 4.19.  for ever and ever.   

The xxxvi Article.  

Psal. 110. Colos. 3. Heb 8.10.12 Mat. 8. job. 1.2.21 Psal. 37.94 john. 1.10. Heb. 1  I Believe that the same jesus Christ is set down at the right hand of God the father almighty. That is to say, that he reigneth in one self majesty and equal power with God his father, by whom he so governeth his until the consummation of the world, that no power of the adversary can hurt them without his permission and will: 
Psalm. 8. Mat. 11.28 joh. 13.17.  Also the father hath made and constituted him Lord and Ruler over all creatures, celestial and terrestrial, giving him all power over heaven and earth, 
Ephe. 1 Philip. 2. Heb. 2.  when he elevated him above all principality and power, virtue and signory, and above every name which is named, not only in this world: 
Esai. 42. Rom. 12. 1. Cor. 12. Ephe. 1 Colos. 1. Math. 16. Ephe. 5.  but also in that to come. And hath assubiected all things, under his feet: Constituting him above all things to be the head of the Church, the which is his body. And therefore I receive not nor acknowledge any other to be the head of the church: but one only Christ, who hath given his blood for to wash her from her filthiness, and to heal her of her wounds, who keepeth, nourisheth, 
john. 14.16 Mar. 21. 1. Cor. 3. Ephe. 2. 1. Pet. 2.  defendeth and governeth her by his spirit. He is the only head and foundation of the Church, upon whom every one aught to build according to his vocation.   

The xxxvii Article.  

Mark. 16. john. 20. Acts. 1.3. Irene. Turtul. S. jerom. S. August. Virgil. Flugence.  I Believe that jesus Christ is ascended into heaven, and that he is there corporally: that is to say, in flesh, bone, body and soul. So that he is not, nor cannot be (by such means and fashion) here below on the earth with us, for as much as his body (although that it be glorious) cannot be in diverse places, nor in many places at one very time: but so in one (according to the nature of his glorious body) that then he cannot be in any other: 
Math. 14. Mark. 6. Luke. 24. john. 20.  otherwise he should not be a true and natural body, but a shadow: that is to say: a thing appearing and not being, the which is false, and altogether against our faith. And therefore I say and confess the true and natural body of Christ, 
Acts. 3. 1. Cor. 15. Ephe. 1  to be in heaven, and that from thence he shall not depart, until he hath put all his enemies under his feet, and come for to judge both the quick and the dead.   

The xxxviii Article.  

Ma. 24.25. Acts. 3  I Believe when the number of the elect children of God shallbe accomplished, the Lord jesus in that same body, with which he suffered, 
2. Thes. 3. Psal. 50.97 Esai. 65.66 Dani. 7. Malac. 3. 2. Pet. 3. john. 5. Rom. 2. 2. Tim. 2.  with which he rose and ascended into heaven, shall come with great power and majesty, visibly in a cloud, even as he ascended, and that shallbe to judge the quick and the dead, and shall give unto every one according to justice, unto the good which shallbe found among them, after their goodness, and to the wicked after their naughtiness. That judgement shallbe general: 
Esai. 45. Mat. 24. 2● john. 5. Rom. 14. 1. Thes. 4. 1. Cor. 15.  that is to say, all shallbe called and summoned to appear personally, by the voice of the Angel, to which, all shall appear, aswell the good as evil, the elect, as reprobate, that every one do make and tender up his account and reckoning before the judicial seat of Christ, 
2. Cor. 5.  of all things done by them in this world, be it good or ill: yea, 
Math. 12. Dani. 12. Apoc. 20.  for every idle word, the which the world doth not think to be sin. Then shall all those be saved, which shallbe found written in the book of life.   

The xxxix Article.  

Mat. 25. Mark. 4. Math. 13.  I Believe that then shallbe made the total and last separation of the good from the wicked, of the elect from the reprobate, the which now are mingled together, as the good fishes and bad in the nets, the chaff with the corn, and the darnel with the wheat: 
Math. 5. Luke. 3.  But when the harvest cometh, he which hath the fan in his hands will make the separation, and will put the corn aside in his garner: but the chaff and tars shallbe cast into the fire, for to burn eternally. Then shallbe perfectly declared and known the justice and mercy of the Lord, 
Math. 25. Rom. 2.16. 1. Cor. 4. 2. Thes. 3.  with the fruit of the Cross and blood of jesus Christ: the which now we know only but in part. Then the good and elect shall know the stone, 
2. Pet. 3. Psal. 118. Esai. 28. Math. 21. Luke. 2. Acts. 4. 1. Peter. 2.  upon which they builded their faith and hope, and shall not be confounded: And the wicked shall also know the stone, upon which they stumbled, the which they rejected, contemned and despised, and shallbe confounded. Then the Lord jesus shall make an end of his office and ministry, 
Sopho. 3. 1. Cor. 15. Ephe. 4.  for his mystical body shallbe altogether accomplished with all his members, and shall tender the kingdom and his spouse (which is the Church) unto God his father, all fair, 
Ephe. 5.  glorious, erreprehensible and acceptable, without spot or wrinkle, or any such thing. 
1. Cor. 15. Heb. 2.  Then shallbe perfectly vanquished and confounded Satan, hell, sin and death, and all the other adversaries of Christ, who at this present do exercise yet tyranny over all his members, 
Rom. 8.  holding them under their griefs, bonds and snares: But then we as people ravished for joy, 
Oseas. 13. 1. Cor. 15. 1. joh. 5.  will rehearse the words that are written, O Death where is thy sting? O Hell where is thy victory? But thanks be unto GOD, which hath given us victory through jesus Christ our Lord.   

The xl. Article.  
I Believe that that judgement being marvelous, 
joel. 2. Heb. 10. Math. 24. Luke 21. Roma. 8.  terrible and fearful unto the wicked and reprobate, is much to be desired, and of great consolation unto the good, faithful and elect, for as much as then their total redemption (to weet of body) shallbe ended, 
Psal. 127. Mat. 25. Luke. 14. Sapience. 5 Exo. 32. Mat. 10.  and that they shall receive the fruit of their labours: Their innocency shallbe openly declared and known of all the world, and they shall see the vengeance and condemnation of the wicked, which have tirrannously afflicted and tormented them in this world, 
Rom. 2. 1. Cor. 4.  whose iniquity and wickedness shallbe manifested by the Lord, and clearly known of all, to their great confusion, and to the honour and glory of the just children of God, the which shallbe in perfect peace and tranquillity, 
Sapience. 5 Esai. 25.66 Apoc. 7.21.  and shall have full joy and fruition of all that, which the Lord hath promised and prepared for them that love him. 
Esai. 64. 1. Cor. 2. 1. john. 3.  Which the eye hath not seen, nor the ear hath heard, neither hath it entered into man's heart. Therefore I tarry and look for that great day of retribution, 
Rom. 8. 1. Cor. 5.  with a great desire, as the same which bringeth and declareth unto me my chiefest goodness.   

The xli Article.  
I Believe that we shall not all die, 
1. Cor. 15. 1. Thes. 4. S. August,  but we shallbe all changed in a moment: that is to say, that in that latter day and general judgement, some shallbe found living, which shall never die by separation of the body and soul: but shall abide so alive eternally, that Christ may be known Lord and judge of the quick and the dead, 
Dan. 7. 1. Pet. 4. john. 5. Act. 10. Rom. 14. 2. Tim. 4. Rom. 5. Gala. 3  and his grace and merit may be found greater than the sin of Adam. For as sin hath reigned to death: In like-maner must grace reign through jesus Christ to eternal life. Nevertheless they shallbe changed and transformed from corruption into incorruption, from mortality to immortality, from despising into glory: insomuch that they shallbe the chiefest of of all the gifts, graces and benefits which the Lord shall give unto those which before were dead, whom they shall not go before: 
1. Thes. 4.  but all together shallbe ravished in the clouds before in the air, and also they shall be always together with the Lord.    

Behold for the second point of my faith, touching jesus Christ, the second person of the Trinity, and of the restoration and repairing of man, done by him.  
Let us now come unto the third point, which is of the holy Ghost, by whom man is restored, maintained and kept in his being.   

I believe in the holy Ghost.  

The xlii Article.  

Gene. 1.6 Psa. 51.143 Esa. 59 63. Math. 3.28 john 14.16 1. john. 5. 1. Cor. 12.  I Believe that the holy Ghost, is one divine person distinct from the father and the son proceeding of them both, equal in all & thorough all, and coeternal with them, by whom the Church hath been always, is yet and shallbe ruled, conducted, directed and governed, until the consummation of this world: by whom also have spoken all the holy patriarchs, Prophets and Apostles of our Lord jesus Christ. Therefore I believe nor receive any other Vicar or Lieutenant of Christ in earth, within his Church: 
john. 14.  but the holy Ghost, which cannot be received of the wicked.   

The xliii Article.  
I Believe that the holy Ghost, 
1. Cor. 1.5. Ephe. 1 ● john. 1.3. Rom. 8. Gala. 4.  is the wages and earnest of our celestial inheritance, by whom we are assured, ascertained and lively persuaded in our consciences, that we are the children of God, and adoptive brethren of jesus Christ, 
Exo. 8.31. Luke. 11. john. 1●. Acts. 2. Rom. 5. 1. Cor. 2. 2. Cor. 1.  and consequently coheir of eternal life. That is also the finger of God, the which printeth in our minds the faith of those things, sealeth and confirmeth the promises of the Lord within our hearts, through his goodness and grace, that we need not to doubt any thing at all.   

The xliiii Article.  
I Believe that that holy Ghost, 
1. Reg. 10. Psal. 104.  dwelling in us, doth regenerate us thorough his grace and virtue, 
john. 3. Rom. 6.8. Ephe. 4. Colos. 3. Titus. 3.  into a renovation and changing of life, mortifying in us, all that which is of us and of the old man, the flesh and the world, and quickening all that which is his, that we should live no more to ourselves: but to Christ, who also doth and worketh in us all good works agreeable to the father, 
Esai. 26. prover. 16. 2. Cor. 3. Phil. 2. john. 16.  and rebuketh, checketh and vanquisheth the world of sin, righteousness and judgement.   

The xlv Article.  

Math. 10. Luk. 12.21. john. 14. 1. Cor. 2. 1. john. 2. Esai. 51.66 job. 1.2. john. 14. Acts. 6. Rom. 8. 2. Cor. 1.  I Believe that the holy Ghost is the Doctor of the Ignorant, who teacheth, directeth and leadeth us into the knowledge of the truth, by which we are delivered from darkness and set into life. Also he is the comforter of the poor afflicted: for to aid, fortify, comfort and assist them in all troubles and adversities, that they should not despair in them, as the wicked and reprobate do: but that they should taste and feel, 
Act. 14. Heb. 12. 1. Pet. 14.  the gentleness, benignity and mercifulness of the father, who thorough cross and diverse tribulations doth bring his into eternal glory.   

The xlvi Article.  
I Believe that that holy Ghost, 
Gene. 2. Act. 17. Esai. 57 john. 7.20. Rom. 8.  is the spirit of life, quickening all other spirits, aswell celestial as terrestrial, and that he is only holy in himself, by whom all other are sanctified: so that, if any spirits are holy (as they are) either in heaven or in earth, it is not but thorough the sanctity of that holy spirit, 
Exo. 31. jere. 1. Eze. 20. 3● john. 17. 1. Thes. 5. Heb. 9  which is the cause wherefore I believe in him: that is to say, that in him I hope and put all my affiance, assurance and trust, as I have spoken before of the Father and the Son.    

Behold the third point of my faith, which is touching the holy Ghost the third person of the holy Trinity, by whom (after that we are made by the father and restored by the son) we are kept and governed unto the end. Now it remaineth to entreat of the fourth point of my faith, which is touching the Church and the things concerning the same.   

I believe the holy catholic Church, the Communion of Saintes.  

The xlvii Article.  

Gal. 4. Numb. 20. 1. Cor. 12.14 Ephe. 5. john. 10. Heb. 12. Roma. 8. Ephe. 1. 2. Timo. 1. Titus. 1.3.  I Believe and confess one only catholic and universal Church, which is a holy Congregation and assembly of all the faithful believers, chosen and predestinated to eternal life, before the constitution of the world: of whose number I account and believe myself to be one, thorough the only grace and mercy of the Father, having the merit of my good Lord and Master jesus Christ, and not by my good works or merits, which are none at all.   

The xlviii Article.  
I Believe that Church to be invisible to man's sight, 
1. Reg. 19 Rom. 11. 2. Tim. 2. Gene. 22. Psal. 2.86. Esai. 21.49 jere. 3 Ephe. 4.  and unto God alone known, the which is not set, tied, or limited in a certain place, or to certain men, but dispersed and separated abroad thorough out the world: Nevertheless joined together in heart, will and mind thorough the band of faith and love, acknowledging all of them one only God, 
1. Cor. 10.11  one only head and mediator jesus Christ, one faith, one law, one baptism, one spiritual table, in which one only meat and one only spiritual drink is administered unto them, until the consummation of this world. 
Math. 23. john. 10. Heb. 11.  That Church comprehendeth in it all the just and elect, from the first just Abel unto the last, which shallbe ●ound in the end of the world, 
Math. 23.  and therefore I call it universal. For touching the visible Church, which is the congregation of the good and of the wicked, the elect and reprobate, 
Rom. 10. Hebr. 11.  and generally of all those which say that they believe in Christ, I believe it not, because I see it with my eye, and faith is of invisible things.   

The xlix Article.  

Esai. 2.4.5. Mat. 13.21 1 Tim. 3. 2. Thes. 2. Heb. 3  I Believe that that invisible Church is the lords field, within which there is neither cockle nor darnel: but that it is the house and habitacle of the holy Ghost, within which there is neither Cain, judas, nor the wicked rich man. 
john. 10. Math. 25. Ezec. 34. Zach. 10.  That it is also the sheepfold of Christ, within which there cometh no stinking nor infected goats: but all sheep, lambs and domestical ewes, bearing fruit in their times and seasons. 
Rom. 12. 1. Cor. 12. Ephe. 4. Psal. 45. Cant. 2.4. Ephe. 5.  That it is the body of Christ, in which their is no rotten or corrupt member. That is also the spouse of Christ, pure and clean, without spot or wrinkle or any such like thing, holy and erreprehensible, purified and sanctified in the blood, and by the word of his head and well-beloved spouse jesus Christ, 
john. 10. Roma. 8.  wherefore those which are grafted in her through lively faith cannot perish.   

The l Article.  
I Believe that the gifts and graces of the holy Ghost, 
Rom. 12. 1. Cor. 12. Ephe. 4.  are dispersed and given unto every one of the members of that Church, not so much for the particular profit & utility of them, as for the general profit and utility of all the assemble, or Church, 
1. Cor. 14. Ephe. 2. Titus. 3.  and that altogether through grace, without any merit, according to the good will and providence of God, to some more, 
Math. 25. Luke. 19 Rom. 12.15 1. Cor. 12. Colos. 2. Gala. 6.  and to some less, that we may know the one to have need of the other, and may aid and help the one the other, in all necessities, aswell corporal as spiritual, as members of one body.   

The li Article.  
I Believe the communion of Saintes: that is to say, 
Math. 25. Ephe. 4. Rom. 12. 1. Cor. 12.  that all that which the Lord giveth us in this world, whether they be goods concerning the body of the spirit, that he giveth them chief to the profit and utility of all the Church, and therefore aught to be distributed and bestowed unto all the faithful, 
Math. 5. Acts. 4. 1. Pet. 4. 1. john. 3.  chief in necessity: Insomuch, that as we do all communicate in one GOD, in one faith, 
Ephe. 4. 1. Cor. 11.  in one law, in one baptism, and in one spiritual table, that also we may communicate in all that which proceedeth and cometh unto us by the means of all those things: 
Math. 25. 1. Cor. 4. james. 5.  for otherwise we are not Christians, nor faithful dispensators of Christ: I always reject the anabaptistical Communality of goods, wives and other like things, 
Math. 14. john. 12.13 Acts. 2.4.  receiving the Apostolical commonalty, which having and possessing some goods particularly, divideth and distributeth unto every one, as he shall have need, and as necessity requireth.   

The lii. Article  
I Believe that that Church is as the Ark of No, within which there was health and life, and out of which there was but death, ruin and perdition. For as Christ is, and reigneth in his Church: so Satan is and reigneth altogether out of the same, 
Math. 28. john. 14. Psal. 119. Mat. 8.14. Mark. 4. Luke. 8.  the which also is kept thorough the spirit of Christ, directed and guided by his word, and nourished by the Sacraments. She shall have always adversaries, 
Esai. 59.63 Zach. 7. Math. 16.  and shallbe always tormented in that sea, by the thunders of antichrist, and by the winds and tempests of Satan. 
Esay. 40.  For all the gates of Hell do arm and set themselves against it. 
1. Cor. 3. Ephe. 2. 1. john. 2. Esai. 25. Apoc. 19  But she shall not be drowned in the waters, but shall abide eternally: For somuch as she hath a good Patron and foundation, which is jesus Christ the righteous. Therefore I call it myllitant, looking for the triumphant of the blessed, where there shallbe but peace, i●ie and eternal salvation.   

The liii Article  
I Believe that the Lord hath given unto us three signs or principal marks, 
Math. 28. Mark. 16. john. 8.10.  by which we may know that Church, that is to say: the word, 
2. Pet. 1. john. 5.  the Sacraments, and the discipline. I call the word, only that which was revealed by the holy Ghost; unto the holy patriarchs, Prophets, and Apostles of jesus Christ, the which is contained in the canonical books of the old and new testament, 
john. 15. joh. 1.3.6.  by which we are mundified and receive the very same, and altogether as much as by the Sacraments: That is to say, that jesus Christ giveth and communicateth himself unto us by the word of faith, 
Rom. 12. Ephe. 3  aswell (without saying better) as by the Sacraments, although it be after another manner and fashion.   

The liiii Article.  

john. 5. Gala. 1. 2. Tim. 3. Esai. 28. Deut. 4.12.28. Pro. 30. Apoc. 22.  I Believe that word of God to be of more greater authority than the Church, the which alone sufficiently declareth and teacheth unto us all things concerning our salvation, what we must do or not do. That is the true patron, and perfect rule, after which all the faithful aught to govern and direct their life, without declining either to the right hand or left, without chainging any thing or diminishing, 
Gene. 1. Deut. 31. Eccle. 1.  knowing that all the works of God are perfect, and chief his word.   

The 55 Article.  
I Believe that as one only jesus Christ amongst all men is holy and true, 
Esai. 53. john. 8. 1. Pet. 2. Psal. 16. john. 8.14.17. Rom. 3. 2 Cor. 1. Esa. 12.40 55. john. 7. Exo. 13. Psal. 119. Deut. 8. Math. 4. john. 6. Rom. 1. Phil. 1. 2. Timo. 4.  and all other are sinners and liars, that also amongst all doctrines, his only doctrine is holy and true, and all other are unclean, and full of lyings. That doctrine is the fountain of life, the lamp and pillar of fire, for to guide us: The bread of the soul, and the virtue of GOD, to the salvation of all believers. Therefore the same only for all occasion aught to be advanced, preached, heard, understanded, and received thorough out the whole world: to the consolation and health of the believers, and to the greatest condemnation of the unbelievers, wicked and reprobate. 
Exo. 16. Mat. 21. Luke. 2. john. 9 1. Pet. 2.  For as the Manna in the wilderness gave unto some worms, and to other some good meat, and Christ was set and given as a stone of offence, to the ruin of the wicked, and resurrection of the good: So the word of the Gospel, is unto some a savour of death in death and unto other a savour of life in life, 
Cor. 2.  the which only I receive and take, 
● josua. 1.  for my guide, after which I will live and die.   

The lvi Article.  

Levit. 19 Deut. 11. john. 5.  I Believe that the reading of that word or Gospel, aught not nor can not be forbidden or prohibited any man whatsoever, of what estate or condition soever he be: 
Ma. 24.28. Mark. 6.16 Acts. 1.  But aught to be common unto all the world, aswell men as women: yea also in a vulgar & common languag understand of all, for as much as to all generally it is directed, & the promises of the Lord contained in the same appertaineth unto all, 
Roma. 13. Luke. 24.  whereby Antichrist with all his do exercise great and cruel tyranny upon all the faithful children of God, 
1. Timo. 4. 2. Timo. 3. 2. Pet. 3.  aswell for that he taketh from them and forbiddeth them the reading thereof, setting before them his dreams, cannons, and damnable traditions in steed of the same. But also for that he forbiddeth and commandeth in any indifferent things, upon pain of deadly sin and eternal condemnation, which is a true note and mark of Antichrist.   

The lvii Article.  
I Believe that holy evangelical doctrine, 
Heb. 2. joh. 5.10. Math. 8.9.10.27. Luke. 9.10. Ac. 3.4.5.9 13.14.19.20  to have been confirmed in his time by divine miracles, aswell by jesus Christ, the prophets & apostles, as by other faithful and good ministers of the same: So that it is not need now to have, or demand other: but to content ourselves with that which hath been made, and to believe simply in the only word, without seeking any further. Watching and always taking heed that we be not deceived by the false miracles of antichrist (of which the world is at this day full) which are done and wrought by the operation of sathan for to conform all idolatries, errors, 
Math. 24. Mark. 13.  
2. Thes. 2. Apo. 13.16.  abuses and iniquities, in blinding the poor ignorant people. The Lord doth permit the same justly, 
3. Reg. 23. 2. Thess. 2.  because they well not receive the spirit of truth for to be saved. He permitteth that they should receive the spirit of lyings with the efficacy of abusion for to be condemned, for that they have allowed lying and iniquity. And have rejected righteousness and truth. 
Math. 27. Mark. 16. joh. 10.21. Act. 3.5.19. 1. Cor. 12. 1. Cor. 14.  Then the true miracles are done by the only virtue of God, for the confirmation of his doctrine, and are given unto the Infidels, and not unto the believers: but the prophesy, that is to say, the word is given unto the faithful and believers.   

The lviii Article.  

Gene. 17. Roma. 4. Math. 28. Mark. 16. Luk. 3.  I Do also believe the holy Sacraments (which are the second mark of the true Church (to be the signs of the Alliance made between God and us, by jesus Christ, seals of the lords promise and extern and visible Symbols of the inward faith, 
S. August  the which are only two in number: to weet. 
Luk. 22. john. 1.3. Titus. 3. Act. 19  Baptism, and the holy Supper of the Lord: These are not void and empty signs, but full: That is to say, not only significative signs, but also exhibitive, of the thing they signify indeed (as we will declare hereafter GOD willing.) Touching the other five, which are received and exercised with great abuse and superstition in the papistical Church: to weet, 
Math. 19 1. Tim. 5. 2. Timo. 1. Mark. 8. jeam 5.  confirmation, Confession, Marriage, laying on of hands, otherwise called, order and unction. I say all those to have been ecclesiastical ceremonies, which the holy Fathers, have used in their time holily, without any superstition, which also we may at this day use after their example, 
2. Cor. 3. Gala. 3.4. Ephe. 2. Coloss. 2. Hebr. 9.10.  so that it be done without error, abuse and superstition: Always saved the christian and evangelical liberty, the which delivereth our consciences from all external Ceremonies instituted by men, without the word of God.   

The lix Article.  

Mat. 28. Mark. 16. Gene. 17. Coloss. 2.  I Believe that the Baptism, is the sign of the new alliance between god and us, made by jesus Christ, and the mark of the Christians in the Gospel, as of late the Circumcision was the mark of the jews under the law. 
john. 3. Ephe. 5. Titus. 3.  That it is also an exterior washing done by water, signifying an interior washing in the spirit, done by the blood of Christ: the which aught to be given and bestowed, 
Mat. 19.28 Mar. 10.16 Heb. 6. Ephe. 4.  aswell to the little Children, as to the old ones, according to the ordinance of jesus Christ, and that once only, without reiterating it. 
Exo. 14.  That is the read Sea, within which, Pharaoh (that is to say the Devil) with his provokements of sin, 
1. Cor. 10.  is altogether drowned, and the Israelites passed thorough the mids safe. 
Acts. 4.  And afterwards walked thorough the wilderness of this world, with great anguish, 
john. 6.  weariness and troubles, used daily the celestial Manna, which is the holy word of the Lord, until they entered by death, into the Land of the celestial promise.   

The 60 Article.  
I Believe also that the Baptism is the entrance of the Church, 
Acts. 2. john. 3. Ephe. 5. Titus. 3.  a washing of regeneration and a renewing in the holy Ghost, by which we renounce ourselves, Satan, the flesh, sin and the world, 
Rom. 13. Ephe. 4. C●lo. 3.  for having laid away the old man with all his concupicences, we put on the new man, which is jesus Christ in righteousness and holiness, 
Rom. 6. Colo. 2. Gala. 3. 2. Cor. 5. Colo. 3.  with whom we die, and are buried in his death, that as Christ is risen from death, by the glory of the Father: so should we walk in newness of life, mortifying always that which is of us in us, for to destroy and root out the body of sin.   

The lxi Article.  
I Believe that that baptism aught to be administered (not with oil, 
Mat. 3.28. Mark. 1. Luk. 3. john. 1.3. Act. 13.8.9  salt, spittle, or such like things) but only in pure and clean water, in the name of the Father, the son and of the holy Ghost: after the ordinance and institution of God, without changing any thing, adding or diminishing, and that altogether in a vulgar and common language, understanded of all: forasmuch as all that which is done or said in the Church of Christ, 
1. Cor. 14.  aught to be understanded and known of all the faithful. 
Math. 16. john. 3. Gala. 3 Acts. 2.22 1. Pet. 3. Rom. 8. Gala. 4. Math. 28. Titus. 3.  By that Baptism we are changed, and transformed from the Children of wrath, sin, devil and perdition, into the children of God of grace and salvation: For to be heirs of GOD, and coheir with Christ in eternal life. And therefore it aught to be given and bestowed only to reasonable creatures, which are capable of those things, and not unto vels, or such like things which cannot receive it, nor exercise the things signified by the same.   

The lxii Article.  

Mark. 16. Rom. 2. Act. 8.9.10  I Believe that Baptism of water not to be so necessary unto salvation that man cannot be saved without it, in case of necessity: 
Mat. 19 1. Cor. 7.  Also I doubt not of the salvation of the little Infanntes which die without Baptism, but that they are saved in the faith of their parents, aswell as if they were baptized, as also in times past the little Children under the law which died without Circumcision, 
2. Reg. 12.  were saved in the faith of their parents. I understand that only of the children of the faithful, 
Gen. 17. Rom. 4.  to whom the promises of the Lord appertained, and not to the Infidels and reprobate.   

The lxiii Article.  
I Believe that the holy Sacrament of the Supper, 
Math. 26. Mark. 14. Luk. 22. 1. Cor. 12.  is a holy and extern ceremony, instituted by jesus Christ in his Gospel, one day ebefore his death, under the likeness of bread and wine, in remembrance and recordation of his death and passion, having and containing in it the promise of the forgiveness of sins, by which we participate truly the body and blood of jesus Christ, 
1. Cor. 10.  and are nourished and fed in the lords house (which is his Church) after that we are entered in the same by the Baptism. That also aught to be given and bestowed unto all under both kinds, 
Math. 26. 1. Cor. 11.  after the ordinance & commandment of Christ, against which it is not lawful to attempt any thing.   

The lxiiii Article.  

1. Cor. 11. jereneus. S. Ambro. S. August. s. Chrisost. Tertulian.  I Believe that in that holy Sacrament, the signs or Symbols are not in any wise changed: but that they abide wholly in their nature. That is to say, that the bread is not changed nor transubstantiated (as the Caphardes and false Doctors have taught, deceiving the poor people) into the body of jesus Christ, neither the wine transustantiated into his blood. 
Math. 26. Luk. 22. Gen. 17. Exo. 12.19. Oseas. 4. Rom. 8. 2. Cor. 3.  But that the bread abideth always bread, and the wine, wine, every one in his proper and first nature. For the words which Christ spoke unto his Apostles in giving the bread, saying: This is my body, I do understand and believe it to be spoken by a figure called Metonimia, which is a kind of speaking very common in the holy scriptures, as the holy scriptures and ecclesiastical Doctors, Ireneus, Cyprian, Tertulian, Ambrose, Augustine, Chrysostome and such other, have understanded and declared by their writings, who lived before the Counsel of Lateran, in which was concluded the transubstantiation of the bread into the body of Christ and the wine into his blood, 
De sum. Trin. tit. 1. Cap. 1.  and given for an article of faith to the great dishonour of God, and offence of all the Church, in the year of our Lord .1050. by pope Leo the ninth, in which time Satan was then let lose, as was foreshowed in the apocalypse, 
Apo. 20.  & troubled the Church of Christ more, than it was before.   

The .lxv. Article.  
I Believe that all that Sacrament lieth and consisteth in using, 
Act. 2.20. Luk. 22. 1. Cor. 11.  so that in not using, that bread and that wine do differ nothing from other common bread and wine, 
S. August Origine.  which men use commonly in their houses, & therefore I believe not, that the body of Christ is contained, tied, or enclosed, in that bread, under that bread, or with that bread: neither the blood, in that wine, under that wine, or with that wine. But I believe and confess his body to be in heaven at the right hand of the Father (as we have declared before) and that as often and when we use that bread and that wine, 
Article. 37.  according to the ordinance and institution of Christ, that truly and indeed, we receive his body and his blood.   

The lxvi Article.  

job. 6. 1. Cor. 10.  I Believe that that receiving is done not carnally or corporally, but in spirit, thorough a lively and true faith. 
S. August  That is to say, that the body and blood of Christ, are not given to the mouth, or belly, for the nurrishing of the body, but to our faith, for nurrishing of the spirit, and inward man to eternal life. And for to do that, it is not needful that Christ descend from heaven for to come unto us: but that we ascend unto him, 
Phil. 3. Colos. 3.  addressing our hearts thorough lively faith an high to the right hand of the father, where he sitteth, from whence we look for our redemption: and not to seek it in these corruptible elements.   

The lxvii Article.  
I Believe that that holy Supper, 
1. Cor. 11. Rom. 8.  is a Sacrament of faith unto the faithful only, and not for the infidels: in which one findeth and receiveth, 
S. August  that that one bringeth thither, and no more, except it be peradventure augmentation of faith, grace and virtue, and therefore in the same, 
john. 6. 1. Cor. 10.  those only do receive and find jesus Christ to salvation which bring it with them thorough a lively and true faith. 
john. 13. 1. Cor. 11.  But others do find and receive there only the extern and visible Symbols, and that to their condemnation, as judas and other such wicked and reprobate.   

The lxviii Article.  

Luk. 22. 1. Cor. 11. jereneus.  I Believe that that Sacrament containeth two things, one which is terrestrial, carnal and usible, another which is celestial, spiritual and invisible: and I do confess that as our body and inward man receiveth the terrestrial and visible thing which is the bread and the wine, by which it is alymented and nourished, that also verily our spirit and inward man received the celestial & spiritual thing, signified by the bread & wine, 
Ephe. 5.  to weet, the body and blood of Christ: So that we are made one with him, bone of his bones, flesh of his flesh, perticipating with him in all righteousness and other virtues, gifts and goodness, which the eternal father hath put in him.   

The lxix Article.  

1. Cor. 10. Exo. 1.2.6.17.  I Believe that the holy Fathers, patriarchs, Prophets and all other faithful and good people, which have gone before us and are dead in faith, did know far of him that should come, to wete, Christ, 
Hebr. 11. joh. 6.14. Ephe. 3 Rom. 1.3. Gala. 3 Ephe. 4. 1. Cor. 10. Num. 20.  by the word and faith: and did receive as much, and the very same, which we receive now by the Sacraments: who also were of the very same Church, faith and law, of which we are: Christians as we are, and have used the same Sacraments in figure, which we use in deed.   

The lxx Article.  
I Believe that unto that holy Table aught to be admitted, 
1. Cor. 5.10.11. 2. Thes. 3.  but only the faithful, the true contrite and penitent, and all that are unworthy to be rejected, for fear lest they defile & contamynate the holy meats, which the Lord giveth not, 
Math. 7.15  but unto this domestical and faithful. I call unworthy, all Infidels, Idolaters, blasphemers, contemners of God, Heretics, and all people which make sects, for to break the unity of the Church: all perjured persons, all those which are rebellious against their fathers and mothers, and their superiors, all seditious persons, quarrelers, fighters, whoremongers, thieves, ravishers, covetous, droonkerdes, gluttons, and generally, all those which lead a slanderous and dissolute life. Such manner of people have no part nor portion in the kingdom of God, 
Gala. 5. Ephe. 5.  therefore they aught to be rejected and put out of the Church: 
Rom. 16. 1. Cor. 5.6. 2. Cor. 2.6 2. Thes. 3.  with whom it is not lawful to frequent, eat, drink, or contract alliance, except it be peradventure to win and lead them to repentance.   

The lxxi Article.  
I Believe that the popish Mass 
The Mass  is not, nor can not be the holy Supper of the Lord. But a mere invention of lying and wicked men: altogether contrary unto the same, as the night to the day, Beliall to Christ: The which shall be known of all men, more clearly than the noon day, by the conference and collation made between the institution of that Supper, recited and written by the Evangelists, 
Math. 26. Mark. 14. Luk. 22. 1. Cor. 11.  and chiefly by the Apostle Saint Paul, and the celebration of the Mass. Therefore it is not a remembrance of the true sacrifice, that is to say, of the death and Passion of Christ, as the holy Supper is. 
Psal. 115. Rom. 3.5. Colo. 1. Hebr. 9.10.12.13. 1. Pete. 1. 1. john. 2. Apos. 1.15.  But a renouncing of the same, for so much as it attributeth that which belongeth unto the only blood of Christ shed upon the cross, to weet, satisfaction, purgation, and remission of sins, with collation of grace: and maketh us to worship the creature, in steed of the Creator, a piece of bread in steed of jesus Christ our only Lord, saviour, and redeemer.   

The lxxii Article.  
I Believe the third mark of the Church (which is the Ecclesiastical discipline) to be greatly profitable, 
Math. 28. Luke. 17. john. 20. 1. Cor. 5.10.14.  yea, necessary in the Catholic church, for the consolation of the good, & correctio of the wicked: 
Acts. 5.8. 1. Cor. 5.  The which also I receive, & submit myself to the same, knowing that it is the ordinance of Christ in the Gospel: 
1. Cor. 2. 1. Timo. 1. 1. Cor. 14.  The which also was practised by the Apostles in the primative Church, that all might be done honestly and in good order: which is an honest and necessary thing in every Congregation.   

The lxxiii Article.  

Math. 16.  I Believe the power to bind and loose, excommunicate, and absolve, which we call commonly the keys of the Church, 
Math. 18. john 20.  to be given of God, not unto one man or two, or to any particularly, but unto all the Church, that is to say, to all the faithful and believing in Christ, not for to destroy, 
1. Cor. 10. 2. Cor. 6.  waste or consume, but for to build up and advance it altogether. Therefore I say and confess that the excommunication or absolution of the same, aught not, nor can not be given at the appetite, or will of some particularly, but by the consent of all the Church, or at lest of the greatest, best, and holiest part of the same, congregated, and assembled in the name of Christ with prayers.   

The lxxiiii Article.  
I Believe that excommunication executed duly, 
Math. 18. john. 20. Math. 16. Acts. 5.8. 1. Cor. 5.  according as jesus Christ hath declared, and commanded in his Gospel, to be of so great authority, power & strength, that it can shut men out of heaven. So that all those which are by lawful excommunication rejected, and put out of the Church militant, they shall be also rejected and put from the Church triumphant, 
2▪ Cor. 2. Math. 18. 1. Tim. 1.  which is in heaven (except they repent) that is a sharp sword for to c●tte away the rotten members of the mystical body of Christ, which is his Church. 
Math. 16. Acts. 5.8. 1. Cor. 5. 2. Thes. 3.  A key for to shut up the heavens against the wicked, and a rod to chastise & correct them: The which yet nevertheless, is not made for to confound them, but as a spiritual medicine for to amend, relieve, heal, and to set them up again, from which they are fallen.   

The .lxxv. Article.  

Math. 18.  I Believe that that excommunicaon (which is the last staff of the Church) aught not, nor can not be cast against any person, 
1. Cor. 5.  which first hath not received and made profession of the faith and christian Religion. As also it cannot be pronounced for every small thing, 
2. Thess. 3.  as are, debts, or other like things. Nor also be executed against all sinners, 
Acts. 5.8. 1. Tim. 1. 2. john. 1. Math. 18. Luke. 17.  but only against public, rebellious, and obstinate sinners, towards whom the word of God, and the brotherly correction, commanded by Christ in the Gospel, taketh no place. Wherefore all those do greatly abuse that staff which do excommunicate the Christians, 
john. 9.12.16.  for small things, with out having suffered the brotherly correction. In like manner also, those which do excommunicate the jews, Turks, Heathens, & other Infidels: yea, also the Flies, and other brute beasts, willing to cast & put out of the christian Church, all that which never was in it.   

The lxxvi Article.  
I Believe beside the same, 
Ephe. 4. joh. 13.15. Roma. 12.13.15. Gala. 6. joh. 2.3.4.  that the unity of spirit & will, peace concord and love, that is to say, true love and brotherly delection, amiable & the mutual supporting the one towards the other, is also one of the marks and signs of the true calholyke Church, & of the faithful children of God, by which they are known to be of the school, & number of the Disciples of jesus Christ: 
jere. 7. Math. 7.21 25. Luke. 6.13. Rom. 2. 1. Cor. 13.  And we must not glory of the title of Christian, or of the faith, saying: I believe, I believe: except we have that love, peace, charity, and true unity of the heart together, agreeing the one with the other in all good works: 
james. 2. john. 8.14. 1. joh. 2.3.4.  For the true faith never goeth without these things, by which also, it declareth & manifesteth itself unto al. These are the signs & marks of the true christian church, to which she is bound & tied, and not to a certain place, 
S. August.  time or persons. And there she is perfect, where these marks are found and exercised: and not otherwise, that if one of that fail, than it is not perfect. And although that, that total perfection can be found for the estate of this present world, in the Church myllytant, yet the fault aught to be acknowledged before the Lord, and to endeavour to remedy and set it in good order.   

The lxxvii Article.  

Luke. 22. Math. 28. Mark. 16. Luke. 24. Math. 10. Mark. 6. Luke. 9.10. Ephe. 6.  I Believe & receive in that Church two sword, that is to say, two powers, the one Ecclesiastical and Spiritual, the which consisteth in the only administration of the word and Sacraments, she carrieth, neither rod, nor staff, other than the tongue, & she useth none other knife than the sword of the spirit, 
Levit. 21. jere. 23. Ezec. 34. 3. Reg. 2. 1. Tim. 3. Titus. 1.  which is the word of God. In like manner I confess that all those which have that sword between their hands, aught to be irreprehensible, aswell in their life as doctrine: Otherwise, one aught to depose & put them from their offices, and to put and substitute other better, in their places. The other power is politic, 
Rom. 11.  to weet, the Magistrate, as touching extern and civil things, for to give according to justice unto every one that appertaineth unto him. 
1. Pet. 2.    

The lxxviii Article.  
I Believe that the Magistrate, 
Exo. 18. 2●. Deu. 16.17. Prou. 8. Esai. 1. Dam. 2. Roma. 13. 1. Peter. 2. Mat. 17.22.  is one ordained of God in his church for to defend the good people, and to chastise and punish the wicked: To whom also we must tender and give the tribute, honour and reverence, and obey him in all things, which are not against the word of God. 
Mark. 12. Luke. 26. john. 18. Ephe. 6. Colos. 3. 1. Peter. 2.  And I do understand that not only of the faithful Magistrate: But also of the unfaithful, wicked and Tyrant: to whom also we must obey as to the Lord, in all things: so that he command nothing against the word of the Lord: For than we aught rather to obey God then men, after the example of the Apostles Peter and john.   

The lxxix Article.  

Rom. 13. Deut. 7.12.17. 3. Reg. 15. 4. Reg. 18.23. Nehemias. Esai. 49. 4. Reg 23. Nehem. 8.  I Believe that unto the Magistrate belongeth not only to have regard over politic things, but also over the Ecclesiastical things, for to take away and put down all Idolatry, and all false serving of God. For to destroy the kingdom of Antichrist, and all false doctrine: and to promote the glory of God, and to advance the kingdom of Christ: to 'cause the word of the Gospel to be preached every where, and to maintain the same even unto death: 
Deut. 13.  Also to chastise and punish the false Prophets, which lead the poor people after Idols and strange Gods: and which in steed of the Gospel, do preach and teach the fables & traditions of men, to the dishonour of God, and of jesus Christ his son, to the great evil and offence of the hearers, and to the ruin of all the Church. 
Roma. 13. 1. Pete. 2.  Unto that Magistrate, every person of what estate or condition so ever he be, 
Exod. 22. Prou. 16.19.20. Baruc. 2. 2. Cro. 20. Psal. 82. Esai. 45. Roma. 14. jerem. 29. 1. Tim. 2.  aught to be subject & obey him in all honest and reasonable things, for that he representeth the person of the great Lord, before whom every knee aught to bow: Therefore he aught not to be forgotten in our prayers, for that the Lord will direct him in all his ways, and that we may join together in good peace and tranquillity under him.   

The lxxx Article.  
I Believe that that Magistrate (as also the sacraments and other like things) was ordained of the Lord for to aid the imperfection of man in the corrupt nature after the sin, 
Deut. 17. 1. Reg. 8.  whom the faithful (after he hath proved all other means) may holily and justly use in all controversies, 
1. Cor. 6. Rom. 13.  which may happen between him and his neighbour, and for to make an end and peace in all things. Wherefore he which in necessity will not use him, aught rather to be judged an Annabaptist, than a Christian.   

The lxxxi Article.  

Exod. 22. 4. Reg. 23. 2. Cron. 15. 1. Esdr. 10. Hebr. 6. Deut. 6.10. Levit. 19 Exo. 20.23. Math. 5.  I Believe that the Magistrate, holy may give the oath unto the faithful in judgement, for to know the truth, and to make an end of all controversies and differences between men, the which aught to be done by the only name of the living God: for as much as it is the third commandment of the first Table. And although that the Christian perfection be, 
jam. 5.  to say simply, yea, yea: nay, nay: without swearing any thing at all. 
jere. 4.12. Esay. 9 Gene. 22.  Yet nevertheless, the faithful may holy use an oath in place and time, with discretion, in the fear of God, for honest, just and true things, 
Hebr. 6. Rom. 1.9. 2. Cor. 1. Gala. 1 Eccle. 23.27  for to confirm the truth, when the honour of God, or the health of our neighbour dependeth on it, and not otherwise. For the man that accustometh himself to swearing shall be filled with iniquity, and the plague shall never departed from his house. 
Deut. 23. josua. 4. Psalm. 76. Eccle. 5. Malac. 1 Math. 5.23  I do also confess, that as all oaths, vows and promises (made according to the lords word) be it unto God, or to men, are obligatory, and aught to be kept and observed invyolablie. Also that those which are made without, 
judges. 11. Math. 14. Acts. 23.  or against the word and commandment of God (as are the monastical vows and other such like, which promise' impossible things and altogether against the word of the Lord) do bind nothing at all: but may be holy broken and violated: 
1. Reg. 25.  For in wicked promises, and in foolish and indiscrete vows, the faithful, prudent and wise man may change his mind.   

The lxxxii Article.  
I Believe & confess that the estate of marriage is honourable amongst all men, and the bed undefiled, 
Hebr. 13. Gene. 2. Math. 19 1. Cor. 7. 1. Tim. 3. Titus. 1.  holy and clean, ordained and instituted of God for generation, and for to avoid fornication, from which none aught nor can not be rejected (except there be some just and lawful let by the word of God, 
Levit. 18. Gen. 1.8.9. 1. Cor. 7. Sapi. 8. Math. 19 ) but aught to be free for all men of what estate or condition soever he be. For it is a great deal better to marry then to burn. And therefore those which have not the gift of contynencie, 
1. Cor. 7. Sapi. 8. Mat. 19 1. Cor. 7.  are bound to marry: lest the temple of the holy Ghost, that is to say our bodies, be polluted or profaned. 
1. Cor. 3.6.    

The lxxxiii Article.  

1. Tim. 4. 1. Tim. 3. Rom. 14.  I Do also believe that the forbidding of marriage to certain persons, as also the forbidding of meats, the difference of days, apparel, and all such like things, 
Malac. 1.2. Baruc. 2. Esai. 1.9. jere. 6.13. Oseas. 6. Amos. 5. Gala. 4. Collos. 2. Roma. 14. 1. Cor. 8. 1. Tim. 4.  is the divellysh doctrine of antichrist, altogether contrary to the christian and evangelical liberty, given by jesus Christ, the which delivereth us from all those legalles, & external ceremonies, and putteth us at liberty to use all things (without offence nevertheless of our neighbour) with giving of thanks unto God. For all things are made holy by the word and prayer, to him which hath known and received the truth. Wherefore to compel and constrain the christians to such things, that is, to take from them, & rob them of the christian liberty, to tyrannyse them, 
Apo. 13.17. Gala. 3  and bring them under again the curse of the law, of which Christ by his death and passion hath delivered them. And it is a true mark and note of antichrist.   

The lxxxiiii Article.  
I Believe that the pure and true serving of God consisteth not in those ceremonies & outward things, 
Esai. 1. jere. 6. Math. 6.23 Luke. 17. 3. Reg. 18.  nor in much babbling, and mumbling of long prayers, nor in crying and howling in the Temple, like unto Asses, or the Priests of Baal. 
john. 5.6. Rom. 14. Act. 7.17. Gala. 5.  But in spiritual things, as are the lively and true faith in God, and in his word by his Son jesus Christ, working by charity towards their neighbour, in true and perfect invocation of his name, 
Gene. 4.12.21. Psalm. 50. joel. 2.  with obedience to his commandments, and humility of spirit according to his word. For as God is a spirit, 
john. 4. 2. Cor. 3.  so would he be served in spirit and truth.   

The lxxxv. Article.  

Esai. 1. jerem. 6. Amos. 5. Esai. 37. jere. 2.7.9.32. Eze. 5.6.16.  I Believe that all the serving of GOD which is done without his word and commandment to be Idolatry and wickedness. I call Idolatry (after the fashion of the Prophets) not only that which is done to the honour of an Idol, or of strange Gods. But also that which is done for the honour of the living God, without his word and commandment. Therefore Idolaters are not only those which do worship and serve Idols and strange Gods, 
3. Reg. 3.12 15.22. 4. Reg. 12.14.18.23. Esai. 29. Math. 15.  as the Ethnics, paynims and such like: But also all those, which worship and serve the true God of heaven, after their fantasy, or traditions of men, without faith, without the word, and otherwise then God commanded. And on the other side, I call those faithful which do acknowledge and serve one only God of heaven, after his word and commandment, 
1. Cor. 10. Gala. 2.  of whom all the works aswell external and internal, corporal as spiritual, 
Collos. 3. Rom. 12. 1. Cor. 7. Ephe. 4.  are the true serving of the Lord, for that they are done in the faith of the son of God, and according to the vocation of the Lord, according to which every faithful person aught to walk.   

The lxxxvi Article.  
I Believe and confess, 
Deut. 13. Esai. 52. 1. Cor. 10. 2. Cor. 6.  that it is not lawful for any Christian, to be assistant, neither in spirit nor body, to the sacrifices of Idolaters, nor also to enter into their Temples, whilst they are doing their Idolatries & Sacrifices: except it be for to rebuke them, 
3. Reg. 13. 4. Reg. 10. Acts. 3.9.17.19. Gene. 2. job. 10. 1. Cor. 3.6. Ephe. 5. 1. Cor. 15. john. 5.11. 1. Thes. 4.  in showing them their abuse, and to teach them the truth, as the holy Prophets and Apostles have done, and not for to dissemble as Hypocrites. For if the body be a creature of God (as it is) as the soul is the Temple of the holy Ghost, and member of the mystical body of Christ: If it must one day rise again, and possess the eternal life with the soul, it must also necessarily be, that it be altogether given unto the serving of God in this world with the soul and spirit: Otherwise they cannot be joined together after the general resurrection: but being separated, the one should be in heaven with God whom be loved, and the other in hell with the devil whom he served: 
Math. 10. Rom. 10. Luke. 12.  the which is an impossible thing. Therefore I say, that all those dissymulations to be a very renouncing of Christ and of his Gospel. 
Gala. 2. 2. Math. 6.  In like manner I believe & confess that all those feignings and false shows, by which the verity of the Gospel is hidden, and the word of God despised, or by which the ignorant and Infidel is confirmed in his error, or by which the weak is offended, are not of God, but of Satan, altogether contrary unto the truth of the word. 
1. Reg. 18.  Therefore we must not halt on both sides, but go uprightly before that great God, which seeth, 
Dan. 13. Heb. 4.  beholdeth, & knoweth all things: yea, before they are begun.   

The lxxxvii Article.  

Sap. 14. Psalm. 97.  I Do also believe that the beginning of all idolatries, was the excogitation and first invention of Images, 
Esai. 40. Osc. 10. Baruc. 6.  the which also were made to the abomination and offence of the Souls of men, and are as snares and nets to the feet of the ignorant, for to make them stumble. Therefore they aught not to be honoured, served, adored, 
Psalm. 114.  nor suffered in the Temples or Churches, 
Deut. 7.16.27, 29.  nor in the places where the Christians do assemble themselves together for to hear and understand the word, but altogether to be taken away & destroyed, 
Exo. 20.23. Deut. 7. 4. Reg. 18.23.  as the second commandment of God doth well declare, and that by the public authority of the Magistrate, and not by the private authority of one particular man. 
Deut. 17. Sapi. 14. Psal. 114. 1. john. 5.  For the wood of the gybbit by which one doth justice, is blessed of God: But the Image made with man's hand, is cursed of God, and he that maketh it with it. Therefore we aught to keep our selves from Images above all things.    

Behold what I believe of the catholic Church, and of the things concerning the same: and that is for the fourth point of my faith. Now remaineth to speak of the fruits proceeding from it, and what I receive by that faith, which are three in number. Whereof the first is.   

The forgiveness of sins.  

The lxxxviii Article.  

job 15.25. Psal. 14.15. Roma. 3. 1. john. 1. Esai. 53. 1. Peter. 2. Gone 8.9. Pro. 20. Ephe. 2. john. 8. Rom. 3.  I Believe that all those which are come, and which shall come of the race or line of Adam, generally are conceived and borne in iniquity & corruption (except one only jesus Christ) and that they are all sinners & transgressors of the law and will of God: And according to their nature, corrupted, the children of wrath, worthy of God's judgement, of condemnation & eternal death, 
john. 3.  having all need of the grace & mercy of God, and of the blood of Christ to be shed. For God hath enclosed all men under sin, 
Rom. 11. Gala. 3  that he should show mercy unto all thorough jesus Christ our Lord.   

The lxxxix Article.  
I Believe that the knowledge of sin, 
Rom. 3.7. jerem. 31. Mich. 7. joh. 3.5.10. Act. 4.5.10 Ro. 4.5.10. Ephe. 2. Titus. 3.  proceedeth from the law, but the forgiveness & pardon of the same cometh from the Gospel, and is given unto us thorough the only grace & mercy of God, in the blood of jesus Christ, keeping the faith that we have in him, by which we are reputed righteous before God: and not thorough our good works or merits, nor by the merits of the purest creature celestial or terrestial: For I do not know, 
Esai. 53. Rom. 5.6. Ephe. 5. Hebr. 9.10.  nor receive any other merits than those of my good Lord, master and only saviour jesus Christ, who hath merited & satisfied abundantly for us, and hath paid the debt, for all his, 
1. Peter. 2. 1. john. 2. Colos. 2.  in cancelating the hand writing and obligation which was against us, and taking it away from the midst of us, hath fixed it in the Cross.   

The . lxxxx. Article.  
I Believe that that justifying faith, 
Math. 16. john. 6.  is a pure & singular gift of God, the which is commonly given by the hearing of the word, 
Ephe. 2. Roma. 10. Hebr. 12.  upon which only it is builded, and not upon the doctrines and traditions of men. 
faith. Roma 8. Gala. 4. john. 3. Math. 7. Roma. 5. Ezech. 18. 1. Timo. 1. john. 1.3. Gala. 3  I call the justifying faith, a certain assurance and sure peswasion of the good will, love, grace, goodness and mercy of God towards us, by which we are assured and verily persuaded in our hearts, of the mercy, favour and benevolence of God the Father, that he is for us, towards us, & against us, and will be unto us a merciful father, 
Ephe. 2. 2. Timo. 1. Titus. 3.  to pardon our sins, & to give grace to adopt us for his children, and to constitute us to be his heirs in the eternal life, and that altogether freely, 
Mat. 17.21. Luke. 17. Mark. 9 Philip. 4.  in his son, and thorough his only son jesus Christ our Lord, and not thorough our merits or good works. That faith can do all things, 
Luke. 17. Mark. 9 Philip. 4.  and nothing is impossible to it: the which is never perfect nor great enough in us, therefore we aught always to pray with the Apostles, saying: Lord increase our faith, help our unbelief. 
Luke. 17. john. 1.36.20. Acts. 10.15.  For that only doth comfort us, maketh us holy, righteous, and agreeable before the Lord, doth make and declare us to be the children of God, and heirs of eternal life. 
Rom. 1.14. Gala. 3.4. Hebr. 11.  The which also is the mother, the beginning and root of all good works, 
Roma. 14  as infidelity is the fountain and root of all evils.   

The . lxxxxi. Article.  
I Believe moreover, 
Math. 7.19 21.25. joh. 3.8.10 13.14. Roma. 2.12 1. Cor. 13. Gala. 5.6. Works.  that the good works are not superfluous, vain nor unprofitable, but necessary to salvation: I call good works, not those which are done after the fantasy or commandment of men, but those only which God hath commanded to be be done, by his word, 
Roma. 14. Luke. 17. Esai. 64. Gala. 5.  the which aught to be done, not for to merit any thing towards the Lord, or for to avoid eternal condemnation: But only, because that God hath commanded them: 
Exo. 20. 1. Thes. 4. joh. 14.15. Math. 5. Ezech. 16. Roma. 2.  And for to testify the love which we have unto the Lord, and the obedience unto his word and commandment: And to the end that in us and by us he be glorified, and our neighbours, aswell faithful as unfaithful, may be edified. 
1. Pete. 2. jam. 2.  Likewise to show and manifest the faith which we have in God and in his word, as the good tree declareth himself, 
Math. 7.  and is known by his fruit, and for to tender certain and sure our vocation, 
2. Pete. 1.  election, and Predestination. These are the ends of good works commanded of God, and who so ever doth them to any other end, 
Gala. 2.5.  he abuseth, sinneth, doth wrong and dishonour unto the blood of Christ, and dishonoureth God and his word. For by his doings he declareth Christ to have died in vain.   

The. lxxxxii. Article.  

Esai. 43. Math. 9 Mark. 2. Luke. 5.7. Mat. 10.16.18. Mark. 16. Luk. 24. john. 20. 1. john. 1.2  I Believe the there is no man in this world, nor in the other, neither in heaven nor in the earth, which can forgive and pardon my sins, but one only God, who also hath given the power and authority unto the ministers of his word, to declare unto the faithful that believe, and which are contrite and penitent, the remission of their sins to be done by grace freely, 
Acts. 2.3.5.10.15.  in the blood of Christ shed for them. And to declare them to be absolved from their sins, 
2. Cor. 3.5.10.  and that altogether by the Minister of the word, in the catholic Church, 
1. Peter. 3.  in which that forgiveness is made and done, and not otherwise. 
Repentance.  But of our part, is required entire and true repentance. The which hath two parts. 
Ezech. 18. Esai. 55. Acts. 3 jere. 18. Gone 4. Math. 27.  The first is contrition, that is to say, knowledge, with displeasure and detestation to sin, the which is administered by the law, and causeth in us a despair, if it be not aided of the other part, 
Math. 3. john. 3.8. Roma. 5. jere. 3  which is the lively faith in the mercy of the father, by the blood of jesus Christ, the which proceedeth from the Gospel, that doth comfort us, and maketh us to persist and find grace and favour before the judgement of God.   

The. lxxxxiii. Article.  
I Believe that the sin abideth always in man, yea, 
job. 3.6.7.9. jerem. 20. Math. 6. Rom. 7.8. 1. john. 3.  unto those that are sanctified, after the regeneration made by the baptism and the holy spirit, the which nevertheless is not imputed unto them, 
Math. 21. 1. john. 3.  thorough the faith that they have in jesus Christ: For as all the sins of the Infidels and reprobate are mortal and irremissible, because of their infidelity, 
Hebr. 11. joh. 3.5.6. Roma. 8.1  so all the sins of the faithful and elect are veniable and remissible, because of their faith: 
1. joh. 4.5. Mark. 6. john. 3.8. Roma. 8. 1. john. 3.5  And therefore I believe one only sin to be mortal & irremissible, that is to say, Infidelity: That is to say, not to believe in the son of God, for where true faith in jesus Christ is found, all sins are hidden, covered and pardoned.    

¶ I believe the resurrection of the flesh, which is the second fruit of my faith.  

The. lxxxxiiii. Article.  

job. 14.19. Esai. 26. Dan. 12. 1. Cor. 15. Apoc. 20. john. 5.11.  I Believe a resurrection to come, and general unto all the world, aswell to the good as evil: The which shall be done at the end and consummation of the world, by the virtue of Christ, and by the ministering of the Angels: 
Math. 24. 1. Thes. 4.  the which with a loud Trumpet shall call all the world before the Lord, and shall assemble all the elect, from the four winds, from the highest heavens, unto the lowest part of the earth, and shall separate the wicked from the midst of the righteous: 
Math. 13.  and shall cast them in the furnace of fire, where shall be weeping & gnashing of tooth. 
Dan. 12.  Then the righteous shall shine as the Sun, in the kingdom of their Father. And shallbe like and companions with the Angels of God. That is the second resurrection, 
Math. 22. 2. Timo. 2. Apoc. 20.  and blessed is he that shall have part and portion in the same, for he shall never be touched with the second death.   

The. lxxxxv. Article.  
I Believe that that resurrection shall be done in flesh, and not in spirit. 
Ezech. 37. Sopho. 3. Philip. 3. Eccle. 12. Mat. 10.21 john. 3.5.  That is to say, that the soul or spirit of man shall not rise again, for so much as it is immortal, and never dieth. But the body, the which before (aswell according to his nature, 
2. Cor. 5. Gene. 3. Rom. 5.6.  as thorough sin) was subject unto death, corrpution, rotten & brought into dust and ashes, shall be raised up and united with his soul and proper spirit, 
1. Cor. 15.  and set in a perfecter estate then that of the first man before sin, 
Gene. 2. Eccle. 17. Roma. 8. Phil. 3.  exempted from all corruption of sin, and consequently from all other imperfections, like unto the glorious body of Christ.   

The. lxxxxvi. Article.  

job. 19 john. 5.11. Acts. 23.24. 2. Cor. 5.  I Do also believe that I shall rise again, not in the flesh or body of another man's, but in my very own body, which I brought from my mother's womb: with those same bones, with the very body which I have now: The same notwithstanding transformed and changed: 
1. Cor. 15.  made of mortal, immortal: of corruptible, incorruptible: of vile and contemptible, glorious. 
Phil. 3.  And therefore I look for my saviour jesus Christ: who thorough his virtue, shall transfigure my vile body: that it may be like unto his glorious body, according to the power, by which he can make all things subject unto himself.    

¶ I believe the life everlasting. Which is the third and last fruit of my faith.  

The. lxxxxvii. Article.  
I Believe that I shall rise again (as I have said) with all the faithful and elect, not for to die again, 
3. Reg. 17. 4. Re. 4.13. Math. 9.27 Luke. 7. john. 11. Acts. 9.20. john. 5.11.  as those which were miraculously raised, aswell by Christ, as by the Prophets and Apostles and such other, but into an immortal, eternal and perdurable life, for to reign eternally with God in body and soul: 
john. 3. Roma. 8. Gala. 3.4. Ephe. 1  And hereof I am very certain and doubt nothing at all of it: knowing that whosoever doubteth of his salvation made by jesus Christ, he shall never be saved. Wherefore, 
Roma. ●.  even as I am sure and certain, that Christ is dead and rose again for me, and doubt nothing at all thereof, but am sure and certain of my salvation made by him. And that infallibly I shallbe saved, 
john. 3.5.6.8.10.  and shall go into eternal life by him.   

The. lxxxxviii. Article.  

1. Cor. 13. 1. john. 3.  I Believe that then I shall see face to face, him whom I do now see but by the glass of faith, & shall know him perfectly, 
Psalm. 110. 1. Cor. 15.  whom I know now but partly, who after that he hath destroyed and confounded all his adversaries, putting them as his footstool, 
Esa. 65.66. 2. Peter. 3.  will make all things new, for the glory of his chosen. And shall be God all in all, and in all things: Then every one shall not teach his brother, 
Apoc. 21. jerem. 31. Hebr. 8.  saying: Know the Lord: For all shall know him from the greatest to the lest among them.   

The. lxxxxix. Article.  

Luke. 16. Numb. 16.  I Do also believe that as the souls and spirits of the Infidels, wicked and reprobate, 
1. Peter. 3. 2. Peter. 2. jude. 1. Apoc. 20.  after they are departed from the body: that straight way they descend into hell, in the eternal fire of hell, their bodies remaining in the earth corrupted and rotten: So the spirits and souls of the faithful, 
Luke. 23. john. 5.6.8.11.17. 2. Cor. 5. Philip. 1.  and elect children of God assoon as they departed from their body, without tarrying any whit, do go straight way into heaven into glory with the Lord. And there do look for always with great desire, 
Roma. 1. Luke. 21.  the coming and total redemption of their bodies, the which they have left rotten and corrupted in the earth, the which they shall obtain at the latter day, and not before. Wherein I reject the foolish opinion, 
Collos. 3. Ierene●●●. S. Chriso. S. Barna●.  of the dreamers (although there be of the ancients and excellent Authors) which affirm the spirits of the Saints not to be yet in heaven, but to sleep in a certain place, to us unknown, until they having received their bodies at the latter day, 
Ephe. 4.  in which the mystical body of Christ being entire, perfect and fulfilled, aught to enter into eternal glory.   

The. C. Article.  
FInally, I believe that as the Saints and blessed (the judgement being done) do go with Christ triumphing in the air in body and soul, for to abide eternally in glory with him, and his Angels. That so the wicked, miserable and dampened, shall go into hell in body and soul with the devil and his angels, for to abide there eternally, and to be tormented with him in hell fire, which never goeth out, where is weeping and gnashing of teeth, where the worm never dieth. From which the Lord preserve and keep us thorough his grace and mercy. Amen.     

❧ The Conclusion.  
Behold (my dear and well-beloved brethren in jesus Christ) briefly, the faith & knowledge of the mysteries which the Lord hath given and bestowed upon me thorough his grace and mercy, unworthy and poor sinner, which have not merited so much goodness towards him, but rather his wrath and judgement: And therefore I know and confess all to have proceeded from him, unto whom only I tender eternal thanks, whom also I beseech in the name of his Son jesus Christ our Lord, to preserve & keep me thorough his holy spirit, in that faith unto the end, & to give me grace, virtue & power to confess it with the heart and mouth, aswell before the Infidels, as the faithful, the tyrants and hangmen of Antichrist, & to maintain the same unto the last drop of my blood: I desire greatly to live and die in the faith, knowing & being well assured, that it hath for her foundation the only word of God, and that in the same all the holy Fathers, patriarchs, Prophets and Apostles of jesus Christ have lived and died in it. That is the true knowledge of the Lord, the which consisteth in the beatitude and felicity of man, as Christ saith in the Gospel, This is life eternal (O Father) that we acknowledge thee to be very God, 
john. 17.  and him whom thou hast sent jesus Christ. This is the ancient doctrine now revealed by the holy spirit, the which in our time was raised up again, and as from the bottom of the depths was restored unto us again, by the grace and mercy of God, and by the ministering of good Doctors, and true faithful ministers of the same. This is the hidden truth, the which was buried and kept close by that antichrist of Rome, and his false Prophets, these five hundredth years or there about: who in steed thereof did advance their dreamings and man's traditions, and other like doctrine frivolous, vain and unprofitable, to the great dishonour of God, to the offending of the faithful, and to the ruin of all the Church of jesus Christ: As also they do yet at this day in many places thorough out the world, persecuting that holy evangelical doctrine, in all places and by all means. endeavouring themselves to bury it again, to hide and cover it, and altogether to destroy it, but they shall all perish in their enterprises, 
Esai. 49.  and the word of the Gospel shall abide eternally: For so hath he promised, 
Luke. 1.  who is only true and can not lie, And heaven and earth shall sooner pass, than his promise should not he fulfilled. 
Math. 10.  Wherefore blessed is he that shall continued unto the end in that doctrine. For he shall be partaker of all the promises of God: And on the contrary, woe be unto him that shall contemn, despise or reject it. For the wrath of God abideth upon him. He that believeth in me (saith Christ) he shall not be condemned. 
john. 3.  But he that believeth not, he is already condemned, his part and portion shall be with the perverse and wicked Hypocrites, in eternal hell fire.  
Also I reject always the doctrine of Luiterim, with whom I will have neither part nor portion. And also I renounce all the doctrine of that Antichrist of Rome, with all his Idolatries, man's sects, errors and papistical superstitions, in which, I have been some time plunged in it (to my great hurt) even up to the ears, abusing myself after the creatures, forsaking my Creator, persecuting (yea, even unto death) those which did teach that same which I now believe and confess. But I have obtained mercy of the Lord, 
1. Tim. 1.  because I did it thorough ignorance, in my unbelief, as many do yet at this day thorough out the world, being lead and conducted with a foolish & undiscrete zeal: who in accusing, persecuting and putting to death the faithful, and true members of jesus Christ (which do seek nothing else but the honour of God, and the salvation of all the world,) do think to do things agreeable to God, 
john. 16.  and to offer unto him great Sacrifices: whom I desire not to be so wilful and rash in judgement, but to examine it nearer, and to search and try the matter better, before they take any thing in hand. To the end they be not one day constrained to say & confess, that which I now confess of myself, that they have shamefully erred and sinned. (But thinking they did well, notwithstanding) in persecuting my good Lord, master, and only saviour jesus Christ. For that which I have done unto his members and faithful (whom then I esteemed as Heretics, seditious, and blasphemers of God and of his word, where they were lovers thereof,) I do esteem that I did it unto himself. For he saith in the Gospel, 
Math. 25.  that that which men do unto those which believe in him, he esteemeth it to be done unto himself, be it good or evil. 
Acts. 9  The which he hath afterwards confirmed to Paul, persecuting his Church after his ascension. I then knowing the great errors, abuses, and superstitions, wherein I was plunged beforetime. Now I renounce and forsake all idolatries and false doctrines, which are contrary and against the doctrine of my master jesus Christ, which is the holy and pure word of God, contained in the canonical books of the old and new Testament, revealed by the holy Ghost: 
2. Peter. 1.  whom I take for my guide and leader, for to direct and lead me in this mortal life, as the pillar of fire did lead the children of Israel thorough the wilderness into the land of promise. 
Exo. 12..  That shall be the Lantern unto my feet. 
Psal. 119.  Furthermore, I promise' from henceforth, and for the residue of my life, to walk and live according to that doctrine, the best I can possible: having the spirit of God, who shall assist and direct me in all my ways, without whom I can do nothing, with which I can do all things, 
Philip. 4.  insomuch that all shall be to the praise of the Lord, to the advancement of the kingdom of his son, and to the edification of all the Church, and to the salvation of my soul. The which most humbly & with all my heart I require, 
Math. 6.  of that good father which is above in the heavens, that his name may be in us and thorough us sanctified, as he is holy in himself: And that his kingdom come, so that he do reign perfectly over us, and we may obey his word, and commandment: That his will be done here below in earth, as it is done by the Angels above in heaven. Beseeching him also thorough jesus Christ his Son our Lord, to give and administer unto me in this mortal life, all things necessary, 
Deut, 8. Math. 4.  aswell to the Soul as body, admynistring unto me every day the daily bread of his word, without which my soul can not live. 
Prou. 24. Roma. 7.  And because I am a sinner by nature, corrupt, sold under sin, not able to do none other thing but to sin, and that I offend more than there be days, I beseech him not to enter into judgement with me, neither correct and punish me according to my merits and deserts, but mercifully pardon me all my offences against him committed, as I do pardon all those which have offended me: And look upon me, not in me, but in the face of his son jesus Christ, thorough whose means I find grace and mercy before him, and before his righteous judgement: I beseech him always to assist me thorough his holy spirit, by which I may escape the assault and ambushments of the world, the flesh and of Satan: to surmount always & vanquish their assaults and temptations, without being broken or overcome in any thing: That their snares and cords being broken, I may gloriously escape: and by that means I shall know plainly, that be is the King of Kings, 
Apoc. 19  and Lord over all Lords, only God, sage, immortal, and invisible, altogether mighty, strong and glorious: unto whom only appertaineth the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.  
FINIS.  
26. February. 1577.