A FIERY PILLAR OF HEAVENLY TRUTH: showing, The Way to a Blessed Life. Composed by way of catechism, for the preservation of GODS people from the spreading evils, and pernicious enchantments of papism, and other errors; for the Detection of every mans condition, for the Consolation of afflicted people, and for the Direction of all sorts of persons to Life eternal. 2 COR. 10.4, 5. The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God, to the pulling down of strong holds, &c. 1 COR. 1.27. God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confounded the wise, &c. Omnia dicta tanti existimantur, quantus est ipse qui dixit,& qui segunt non tam considerent quid legant, quam cujus legant, &c. Salvian. contra Avarit. lib. 1. Sufficiunt nobis hac in parte Sanctorum sensus& Iudicia, &c. Salv. cont. Avar. lib. 4. LONDON: Printed for John Bartlett, and are to be sold at the sign of the gilded Cup, near St. Augustines gate. 1641. A FIERY PILLAR OF HEAVENLY TRUTH: showing, The way to a blessed Life. CHAP. I. Question. WHat is the most needful and comfortable thing for every man to know? Answer. To know himself to be the child of God. Luk. 10.42. joh. 17.3. Phil. 3.8. 2 Cor. 13.5. Quest. Why is this Knowledge the most needful, and most comfortable? Ans. Because God doth chiefly require it, and our happiness, dignity, peace, and safety doth principally con●●t in it. Hos. 6.6. Iere. 9.23, 24. 2 Pet. 1, 2, 3, 4. Quest. How may a man attain this knowledge? Answ. By the preaching of the Word. 1 Pet. 1.23. Acts 26.15, 16, 17, 18. Quest. How doth the Preaching of the Word work this knowledge in us? Ans. By two things: 1. By bringing us to a clear sight, and lively feeling of our misery by sin: Ro. 7.7.9. Acts. 2.37. 2. By bringing us to the knowledge of our Redemption out of that estate by Christ. Luk. 3.3. Luk. 24.47. Quest. Wherein doth our wretchedness consist? Ans. In two things: First in the loss of happiness. Gen. 3.17.23. Secondly in the gain of misery. Psal. 14.3. Quest. Wherein stood that happiness, which by him we have now lost? Ans. In being like God in holinesse, and true righteousness without corruption. Gen. 1.27. and in being conformable to the law of God in sound obedience without imperfection. Eccles. 7.29. Quest. What is it that maketh our estate now so miserable? Ans. sin, and the curse due to sin? Ia. 1.14, 15. Gal. 3.10. Psal. 38.3, 4. Quest. Wherein standeth our sinfulness? Ans. In two things: First in that we are guilty of Adams sin, because we were in his loins. Ro. 5.13. Secondly, In that all the powers of our souls, and members of our bodies, are now by nature corrupted. Ephes. 2.1. Ro. 6.19. Tit. 1.15.16. Ia. 3.15. Qu. How doth this sinfulness make us miserable? Ans. Seven ways: 1 In abolishing Gods image. Gen. 3.7. Gen. 6.5. 2 In filling our whole man with corruption. Psal. 53. 3 In making us vassals unto sin and Satan. Ro. 7.14. Ephes. 2.3. 2 Tim. 2.26. 4 In disabling us to understand the will, and observe the Commandments of the Lord. joh. 1.5. Ephe. 4.18, 19. 5 In causing us to lose our right unto, and sovereignty over the creatures. Rom. 8.20, 21, 22. Tit. 1 15. 6 In making our persons, and actions unacceptable unto God. Prov. 15.8, 9. joh 9.31. 7 In casting us out of Gods favour, and in making us liable unto death eternal. Isa. 59.1, 2, 3. Iere. 5.25. Mat. 25.41. Quest. Cannot man, being in this estate, turn himself unto God? Ans. No; For, 1 He is altogether indisposed unto any good. 2 Cor. 3 5. Ephes, 2.1. Mat. 7.17, 18. 2 He is strongly bent, and inclined unto what is evil, Iere. 17.9. Ro. 8 7. Acts. 7.51. 3 He is a very enemy against God. Col. 1.21. Rom 8.7. 4 He hath a base estimation of the means appointed to convert him, 1 Cor. 1.23. job. 21.14, 15. Acts 17.18 Psal. 58 5, Mat. 22.5, 6. 5 The deceitful proffers of sin are very pleasing to him. Pro. 9.17. Prov. 10.23. 6 The ways of God, and they who walk in them, seem base, and of no account with him. joh. 7.48. Isa. 8.18. 1 Cor. 4.13. Mal. 3.13, 14, 15. Quest. Wherein standeth the cursedness of man? Ans. In being subject to all the plagues of this life, and of the life to come. Ro. 6.23. Quest. What are the plagues whereunto he is subject here in this life? Ans. To grievous changes in his estate, loathsome diseases in his body, vile lusts, and reigning corruptions in his soul. Levit. 26.15, 16, 17. Deu. 28.16, 17. Rom. 1.25.26, 27, 28, 29. Quest. What are the plagues he is subject to in the life to come? Ans. They are endless, easeless, and remediless torments. Mar. 9.45, 46. Quest. What ought the consideration of this sinful and cursed estate work in us? Ans. Deep and serious humiliation, with an uncessant care to get forth of the same. Ro. 7.24. job. 42.6. Acts 2.37. CHAP. II. Question. HAving shewed me mans misery by sin, tell me now in what order doth God bring man out of that estate, unto glory in heaven? Ans. God proceedeth in the work of mans salvation by six Steps. Quest. What are they? Ans. 1. Election. 2. Redemption. 3. Vocation. 5. Sanctification. 6. Glorification. Quest. What is election? Ans. It is the eternal decree of God, whereby he freely and infallibly appointed, for the glory of his own Name, to bring some men to everlasting life through Christ. Ephe. 1.4, 5, 6. Quest. What did move God to elect some men unto lice? Ans, Neither fore-seen Faith, works, freedom of will, nobleness of birth, nor merit of Christ, but only the good pleasure of God. Deut. 7.7, 8. 2 Tim. 1, 9. Ephe. 1.5.11. Rom. 9.11, 12, 13. joh. 1.13. Quest. By what Reasons can you further make it manifest, that God of his own good pleasure, doth choose men unto life eternal? Ans. Chiefly by these six: 1 Because God is a free Agent, his Will is independent. Psal. 135.4, 5, 6. Ro. 9.21. 2 Because God could fore-see no good thing in us, but what himself had determined to work. 1 Cor. 4.7. Phil. 2.13. 1 King. 8.57.58. 3 Because our Redemption, Vocation, Justification, and Sanctification are altogether free. joh. 3.16. Gal. 1.15. 2 Tim. 1.9. Ro. 8.30, 31, 32. 1 Cor. 1.30. 4 Because such as have the best natural endowments are most commonly left, and they who have least, are most frequently elected. 1 Cor. 1.26, 27, 28, mat. 11.25, 26. 5. Because the greatest sinners are many times converted, when others not so notoriously evil continue unregenerate. Mat. 21.28, 29, 30, 31, 32. 1 Timo. 1.15. 2 Cron. 33.12, 13. 6 Because man shall have nothing whereof to glory, but ascribe the praise of the whole work of his salvation unto God. 1 Cor. 1.28, 29, 30.31. Quest. What are the properties of Election? Ans. They are these three. 1 Election is eternal. Ephe. 1.4. 2 Unchangeable. 2 Tim. 2.19. Rom. 8.38, 39. Rom. 11.2.29. Joh. 10.28.29. 3 Free and independent. Ro. 9.18. Isai. 60.21. Quest. What are the signs of Election? Ans. First, A lively feeling of our effectual vocation. Rom. 8.30. 1 Pet. 2.9. 2 Thess. 2, 13.14. 2 newness, and purity of heart, and life. 2 Tim. 1.19, 20, 21. joh. 3.3. 1 joh. 3.2, 3. 3 An entire love to Gods Word, and people. 1 joh. 4.16, 17. 1 joh. 3.13, 24. joh. 8.47. 4 A deadly hatred from the world, for the unfeigned love we bear to Christ. joh. 15.19. 5 The internal Testimony of Gods Spirit, witnessing to our consciences, that wee are the children of God. Ro. 8.16. 1 joh. 5.6, 7, 8. 1 Joh. 4.13. 6 A sanctified peace of conscience. Ro. 5.1, 2. 7 A holy contentedness, and heavenly walking with God, at all times, and in all estates. Phil. 4.11.12. 1 Pet. 1.17. Act. 24.16. 8 An earnest looking for, and longing after the coming of Christ Jesus to judgement. 2 Pet. 3.12, 13, 14. 2 Tim. 4.8. Revel. 22, 20. he that findeth all, or any one of these signs truly wrought in him, may infallibly assure himself of his Election. Quest. Hath not God in his secret Decree rejected some, as well as elected others? Ans. Yes. Revel. 13.8. Prov. 16.4. Isai. 41.9. Mal. 1.3. Ro. 9.18. Ro. 11.7. 1 Thess. 5.9. 2 Tim. 2.20. judas ver. 4. Qu. What is Reprobation? Ans. It is the eternal and unchangeable decree of God, not to bestow on some men the grace of election, Ro. 9.11.12, 13. Quest. What is the moving cause hereof? Ans. The good pleasure of God. Mat. 11.25, 26. Qu. What is the final cause hereof? Ans. That Gods absolute power over the Creature might be declared, and his mercy to the elect commended. Ro. 9.17.22. Qu. do you not hereby make God the author of sin, and unjust, in condemning man for sin? Ans. No; for, 1 Reprobation goeth before sin, not as a cause, but as an antecedent, as the absence of the Sun is an Antecedent, but not a cause of the freezing of water. 2 God by the decree of Reprobation, doth not infuse any evil into man, nor compel man to do any evil, Iam. 1.13.14. but determineth: 1 Not to confer upon man, and confirm in him that grace which should make him stand, Deut. 29.4. Psal. 81.13. 2 To permit man of his own accord to commit sin. Psal. 81.12. Ephes. 4.19. 3 To limit him how far he shall go in sin. 2 Kings 19.28. 4 He ordaineth, beyond the nature of sin, and the purpose of the sinner, to order, and turn it to a good end, even the manifestation of his own glory, in the execution of his justice upon the impenitents, and in showing mercy to his chosen. Ro. 9.22.23. 3 Reprobation being an act of Gods absolute power, hath no other cause, but Gods good pleasure. Ro, 9.21. but damnation being an act of Gods Iustice, hath sin to be the meritorious cause thereof. Hos. 13.9. Ezek. 18.30. 4 The fall of man, in regard of the liberty of mans will, was avoidable, but in regard of the event of the action, it was inevitable; the Lord having decreed, not to stir up the will of man to persist in uprightness, and to resist Satans temptation, he voluntarily inclined to what was forbidden. Gen. 3.6. 5 Man is not condemned, because he cannot but sin, in regard of Gods decree of reprobation, but because he will do no other than sin, in regard of his own inclination. Hos. 13.9. Psal. 81.10, 11, 12. Mat, 23.37. Ezek. 18.31, 32. 6 Though unregenerate man doth nothing but what God hath in his secret decree appointed, yet he sinneth, because what he doth, is in obedience to his own will, and not to Gods commandement. Isa. 10.5, 6, 7. Acts 4.27.28. 7 Whom God hath not ordained to save, them he hath appointed to leave to themselves, to continue in blindness, and hardness of heart, till the measure of their sin be filled up. 1 Pet. 2.8. Isa. 6.9. 2 Cor. 4.3, 4. Quest. What are the signs of Reprobation? Ans. An infallible sign can very hardly be given, but signs very probable there be eight. 1 When God doth either not bestow upon men, or else doth take from them the faithful Ministers of the Word, the ordinary means of their salvation. Mat. 10.5. Mat. 23.37, 38, 39. Act. 13.46. 2 When God doth not incline the heart to be obedient to the outward means which he affordeth. 1 Sam. 2.25. Mat. 11.21.22.23. 2 Cron. 25.16. 3 When mens hearts are hardened, by the ministry of the Word, and other means of life. Isa. 6.9.10. 2 Cor. 2.15, 16. 1 Pet. 2.7, 8. joh. 13.2. 4 When God doth sand upon men the Spirit of slumber, to make them secure, and unsensible of the danger of their natural estate, and present condition. Ro. 11.8. Isai. 19.14. 5 When God doth give men up to a reprobate mind, disabling them to judge aright between things spiritually good, and evil. Ro. 1.28. 2 Pet. 2.12. 2. Cor. 4.3. 6 When God doth give men up to Satan, to deceivers, or to strong delusions, to be seduced. 2 Cor. 4.4. 2 Thess. 2, 9.10, 11, 12. Mica. 2.11. 1 Kings. 22.20, 21.22, 23. 7 When men receive not the truth with an unfeigned love to the truth. 2 Thes. 2.10, 12. 8 When men turn Gods grace into wantonness, presuming to continue sinful, because God is long-suffering, and merciful. Rom. 2.4, 5. Iude Epist. v. 4. Quest. Doth not this Doctrine of Election and Reprobation, make men secure and careless? Ans. No: for as God hath appointed men to glory, so he hath appointed them to Sanctification; and to the use of all holy means to attain that end. 2 Thes. 2.13, 14. Ephes. 1.4. 2 Pet. 1.10. Quest. Can you show me yet more clearly how the three persons in the God-head do proceed in accomplishing the work of mans salvation? Ans. Yes: 1 No man cometh to the Son, but from the Father by Election. jo. 6.37.65. Joh. 17.2, 6, 7. 2 No man cometh to the Father from the bondage of sin and Satan, but by the son, through the work of Redemption, and mediation. Ephes. 1.9, 10. joh. 14.6. 3 No man is united to the son, but by the holy Ghost, working faith and Sanctification in them whom the Father did choose, and the son redeem. 2 Thess. 2.13. 1 Pet. 1, 2, 3. 4 The whole work of mans salvation, is from the Father, by the inchoation, or beginning of the Decree in the son, by the dispensation of the means, by the holy Ghost, for the Consummation of the means unto faith, as the instrument to apply them, and unto obedience, and true holinesse, as the fruit of faith, and way to heaven. 1 Pet. 1.2, 3, 4. Quest. What rules can you give me for the better understanding of this deep Mystery of Election and Reprobation? Ans. The Rules requisite to the right understanding hereof are five sorts. Qu. What doth the first sort of these Rules respect? Ans. The foreknowledge of God. Qu. What are the Rules which respect Gods foreknowledge? Ans. They are seven. 1 That Gods foreknowledge is independent, and not occasioned by the thing foreseen, because the foreknower stampeth his impression in the things foreknown, but the things foreknown make no impression in the foreknower. 2 God forseeth no good thing in the Creatures, nor any inclination unto goodness: but what himself from all eternity had ordained to work in them, both for essence, and inclination. 3 Things future, are therfore future, and to come; because God did foreknow, and foreordain them, his knowledge dependeth not on them, but their coming to pass dependeth upon his decree. 4 Gods fore-knowledge is not the cause of that which God hath decreed to permit( to wit sin) but of that only which God hath decreed to work, that is the creatures, their qualities, motions, and actions. 5 Gods fore-knowledge is not speculative, but practical, not declaring things to come, as he seeth them in their causes: but effecting whatsoever he will have done, be it good or evil, either by a powerful working, or by a voluntary permission, and wise ordering of it, to the end whereto he did appoint it. 6 Whatsoever God fore-knows, that he Willeth, because nothing can come to pass, which he willeth not; the Lord by himself, or by others, doing whatsoever is good, but suffering others to do that which is evil. 7 Gods foreknowledge of his Elect, is not a naked knowledge, but a knowledge joined with a loving affection, and benevolous purpose in God, to appoint, and bring them to eternal life, out of his own singular love. Quest. What doth the second sort of Rules respect? Ans The Will of God. Quest. What are the Rules which respect the Will of God? Ans. They are nine. 1 You must not conceive any thing to be before the will, counsel, purpose, and decree of God; because these be eternal, and no man may look beyond eternity, for a reason of any thing. 2 God primarily willeth himself as the chief good. Augustin. Enchirid. cap. 11. Gregor. Moral. lib. 18. cap. 17. Secondarily, the Creatures, as they do more or less bear his image. Thirdly, he willeth sin not immediately, or simply for itself, for so he hateth the very being of it; but he willeth the permission, and disposition of sin, as it may be reduced by his goodness and wisdom, to his own glory, and the good of the creature. 3 Whatsoever God doth will in his secret Will, that he bringeth to pass: because he effecteth it in himself by a secret and unchangeable decree; and out of himself, by two uncontrollable means, the dispensation of his Son, and consummation of his Spirit. 4 We must not confounded the secret, with the revealed Will of God; the decree of Predestination, with the precepts of faith, and repentance. 5. Gods revealed Will sheweth what ought to be performed by us, not that God hath in his secret Will decreed we either can, or shall be enabled to perform the same. 6 Gods will is the reason why two men equally miserable, are made to differ one from another, and not the fore-sight of our wills, receiving, or rejecting grace proposed. 7 The will of God is most free, and most simplo, and therefore there are neither two, nor more, nor contrary wills of God, but the will of God is most simply one. 8 There are divers distinctions of the Will of God, but such as are rather nominal, than real. 9 The things which are done against the revealed will of God, or the will of his precept, are not done without, or beside his secret Will, which is properly the Will of God; nothing being done, God willing, or unwilling. Quest. What doth the third sort of Rules respect? Ans. The Decree of God. Quest. What are the Rules respecting Gods Decree? Ans. They are fourteen: 1 The Decree of God is most wise, most free, absolute, inconditionall, eternal, going before all second causes 2 Though all things come to pass necessary, according to the Decree of God, yet is his decree the cause of no sin, the decree inferring no necessity of constraint, but of mutability. 3 The decree of God takes away neither liberty from the reasonable creatures, or contingency from second causes. 4 Gods decree of Election, or Reprobation, must not be grounded upon any thing in man, but altogether upon the free-will, and good pleasure of God. 5 Wee must carefully put a difference between the decree of Election and Reprobation, and the execution; because the decree is eternal, and before sin; the execution of the decree is temporal, and after sin, the decree respecteth man in general, as he is a creature capable either of glory, or ignominy, the execution looketh on man, as he is in sin. 6 We must take heed that we neither confounded the decree with the execution of the decree, nor the means of salvation or damnation, with the causes of Election or Reprobation: you may not make Christ and Faith the causes of Election, because they be means of salvation: you must not take incredulity, and sin to be the cause of Reprobation: because sin doth not go before, but follow after Reprobation. 7 We must distinguish between the Decree of non-Election, or Reprobation; and the decree of destination unto punishment, or preparation to punishment, which is usually called Predamnation: because the former dependeth soly upon the good pleasure of God, the other is an act of Gods justice: the one floweth from God, as he is a God of absolute power, the other floweth from God, as he is a God of justice: the one respecteth man, as he is a reasonable creature, mutable, the other as he is fallen into sin. 8 We must carefully apply a right object, to each several act, which we conceive to be in Gods Decree: thus we must apply eternal Election, and Reprobation, to the attribute of power, dominion, and good pleasure in God. We must apply actual and temporal election, which respecteth man in sin, to the attribute of mercy in God: the destination of men not Elected unto punishment, must be referred to the attribute of Iustice. 9 The proper object of eternal Election, and Reprobation, or Preterition, is the reasonable creature, capable of glory, or ignominy; as we may see in the election, and preterition of Angels, who were not in the mass of sin: and in the Election of Christ, as man, in whom there was no sin. 10 The Decree of Election and Reprobation is an immanent act in God alone, as in the Subject; from God alone, as from the cause: but damnation is neither originally from God, nor subjectively in God, but is a transient effect of his Justice. 11 Mans salvation in the order of Gods Decree, and counsel goeth before the means, because every very wise Agent resolveth first of the end, and then of the means. 12 As God ordaineth the end, so also he appointeth most apt, convenient, and powerful means, to accomplish that end; his decree of Election and Reprobation, being as immutable as himself. 13 God being a most wise Agent, propoundeth unto himself the manifestation of his own glory, as a most certain, and infallible end, appointing and making all things to serve thereunto. 14 There neither is, nor can be any impulsive cause of the Decree of God, besides the free Will, and good pleasure of God. Quest. What doth the fourth sort of Rules respect? Ans. The manner of the Three Persons, working in the work of mans salvation. Quest. What are the Rules respecting the working of the Three Persons. Ans. They are these: 1 Election being an original work, is attributed to the first Person, and the sons dispensation is according to the Fathers Election. 2 The Father made choice of certain people unto eternal life, as his inheritance; the Son purchased what the Father had chosen, and the holy Ghost working from the Father and the son, doth take possession, and expelleth sin and Satan. 3 Man is Elected in Christ, as the head of the elect, but not as the head or foundation of the Fathers election: for so the Father should begin from the Son, who alone worketh from himself by the Son. 4 Christ is the Elect of the Father, therefore not the head of the Fathers Election: the dilection of the Father, causeth the donation of the Son. 5 Christ is chosen, 1 as Head, not to his Father, but over his members, and so he is the first of the Elect in order, and we are chosen in him. 2 He is chosen as a fountain of grace, not to his Father, but from his father to us, as a Mediator and means for our good, and so becometh our servant. Quest. What doth the fift sort of Rules concern? Ans. sin. Quest. What are the Rules which in this behalf respect sin? Ans. They are these: I. We must distinguish between a thing brought to pass as an effect, flowing from something, as the cause thereof( as the freezing of the Water followeth the coldness of the air, as an effect of it) and between that which is a consequent, coming after some thing, as it is an antecedent; as the freezing of the water is a consequent, but not an effect of the absence of the Sun. So sin is a Consequent of Reprobation, not an effect; because God by not Electing man, doth not infuse any evil into man, nor take away any good thing from man, which he had, but doth thereby decree not to confirm in him that good which should make him stand. II. The causality of the action, with the effectual concurrence, and immediate influence into the same, as also the direction, and determination of it, must be referred unto God: but the sin, disorder, or deficiency of the action, must be referred unto man, as the author, and rest in man, as in the Subject. III. The action, as it proceedeth from an evil will, and looketh to an evil end, so it cometh from man; but as it is ordered by God, to a good end, so it cometh from him. IV. Look on the decree of God;& you shal see, that that is an immanent act residing in God, working nothing, infusing no corruption into the Creature, not at all enforcing the creature to any evil; but leaving the creature to himself, the creature doth of its own accord, decline from the Rule of righteousness prescribed, from the estate of holinesse, in which it was created: God left man in a good estate, made him the free beginner of his own work. V. Look on Gods Providence, and there you shall see Gods efficiency in, and about sin, but not of sin. You shall see his efficiency in sin. 1 In fore-knowing, and fore-appointing it. Gene. 50.19. for whatsoever is, is either against the will of God, and then he cannot be omnipotent; or besides the Will of God, and then he cannot be omniprovident, omnidisponent; or else it must be with the will of God, for who hath resisted his Will? Rom. 9.19. sin is against the Rule of righteousness, which God hath prescribed, but not against the secret Will of God, which cannot be resisted. 2 Here you shall see the Efficiency of God, in sustaining the nature of the sinner, for in him we live, move, and have our being. Acts. 17.28. 3 In the permission of the Sin. Acts 14.16. 4 In the desertion of the sinner. Isai. 5.5, 6. 5 In the tradition, and delivering up of sinners to Satan, and vile affections, as an act of justice, a punishment for their former impieties. Rom. 1.24. 6 In the limitation of them in their profane enterprises. Isa. 8.10. 7 In giving leave to wicked Instruments to incite, and stir up others to evil. Kings 22.22. VI. Look on sin, and you shall see it is from evil, defectively: sin hath properly no efficient, A malo defective. but a deficient cause: for sin is not properly an action, but a defect, an obliquity, or error in the action: sin hath no positive being, but is a privation evilly affecting the subject wherein it is: Sin is from a good cause permissively, disposively: A bono permissivè. In bono subjectivè. Sin is in that which is good Subjectively, the action is good, the obliquity of the action is evil: Sin is to good Reductively: Ad bonum reductivè. God the chiefest Good, would never have permitted sin, had he not known how to make a good use thereof. VII. The work of God about sin is considerable in the inchoation, progress, and consummation of sin. In the inchoation by prohibition, and permission: by prohibition, if there had been no prohibition, there had been no sin, where is no law, is no sin: by permission, if God would not have permitted it, it could not have been. In the progress of sin, Gods work is seen in the direction and limitation of it, for the time when, continuance how long, and measure how much. In the end or consummation of sin, the work of God is seen, in showing his mercy in forgiving some, and his justice in punishing others. CHAP. III. Question. WHat is the second step by which God proceedeth in the work of mans salvation? Ans. Redemption. Ephes. 1.7. Quest. What are we to consider concerning mans Redemption? Ans. six things. 1 Who wrought it. 2 Wherein it consisteth. 3 How it is made known unto us. 4 How it is embraced, and received by us. 5 For what end we are redeemed. 6 What benefits we must see hereof in ourselves. Quest. By whom was our Redemption wrought? Ans. Only by Christ. Gal. 4.5. 1 Cor. 1.30. Acts 4.12. Quest. What is Christ? Answ. He is the son of God, by eternal generation, according to his God-head, and by grace of personal union, according to his manhood. Psal. 2.7. Luk. 1.35. Quest. How is Christ distinguished from the Father? Answ. Two ways: 1 According to his person, as he is the son of God, the second Person in the Trinity. 1 John 5.7. 2 According to his office, as he is Mediator, both God and Man. jo. 17.5. Quest. How is Christ said to be both equal and inferior to the Father? Ans. He is equal, according to his divine nature, but inferior, according to his office of Mediatorship. Philip. 2.6. joh. 10.29, 30. John 14.28. Quest. How is Christ distinguished in himself? Ans. By his Person, by his natures, by his properties, by his actions: his Person is but one, his natures, properties, and actions are double, divine and human. mat. 1.23. joh. 1.14. Matth. 23.37. joh. 2.19. Quest. Did he work our Rademption by one nature only, or else by both? Ans. By both his Natures. 1 Cor. 2.8. Quest. Whence doth it appear, that Christ is our Redeemer, and Mediator, according to both natures? Ans. 1 He did assume our flesh, that so being God, and man, he might be a fit Person to perform the office of a Redeemer, to reconcile both God and man together. 1 Timothy 2.5. 2 He was man, to suffer for man, and he was God, to make his suffering of an infinite value, a complete satisfaction for mans Redemption. Heb. 2.14.15.17. 3 Christ so performed the office of a Mediator, according to both natures, that there was a communion in the work, but a distinction of the virtue and manner of the work, in the natures working: Christ suffered in his human nature, but sustained and overcame the things which he suffered by the Power of his Divine Nature: He satisfied in the human nature, but the worth, dignity, efficacy, and application of the satisfaction proceeded from his Divine Nature. Heb. 9.14. Heb. 5.5. Act. 20.28. Quest. How could the short sufferings of Christ satisfy the infinite Justice of God, and purchase his everlasting favour? Ans. The infinite merit of Christs passion ariseth from his infinite Godhead; mans sin, though in itself finite, yet became infinite, by being committed against an infinite Justice: So Christs sufferings, though finite in regard of time, yet became infinite by divine merit. Acts 20.28. Quest. But how doth this work of Redemption belong to the divine nature, seeing the divine nature could not suffer, because it was immutable, nor die, because it was immortal? Ans. In regard of personal union, the divine nature manifesting itself in the flesh, and the human nature being made one by personal union with the divine, whatsoever is done to either of the natures, is taken as done unto them both. John 1.14. Phil. 2.7, 8. Quest. How manifold is the office of Christ the Mediator? Ans. Threefold, as a Prophet he teacheth, as a Priest he sanctifieth, as a King he governeth, as a Prophet he explaineth, as a Priest he obtaineth, as a King he applieth salvation to his people. Acts. 3.22. Heb. 10.10.14. Ephes. 5.25, 26, 27. Jsai. 9.6, 7. Quest. show me yet more fully what he doth as a Prophet? Ans. he sheweth us our misery by sin, and happiness by grace. joh. 1.9.18. Mat. 17.5. Quest. How doth he do this? Ans. Outwardly, by the preaching of the Law and Gospel, and inwardly, by enlightening the understanding. Mat. 4.17. Isai. 61.1. Ephe. 4.11. joh. 5.25. 1 joh. 2.27. Quest. What doth he as a Priest? Answ. he redeemeth us from evil, and purchaseth for us Gods grace and favour. Heb. 2.17. Psa. 110.4. 1 Pet. 2.24. Quest. How doth he do this? Ans. 1 By keeping the Law, Rom 8.34. 2 By offering himself a Sacrifice to God. Ephe. 5 2. 3 By making intercession for us. Heb. 7 25, 26, 27. joh. 17 9. Quest. How doth he make intercession for us? Ans. By presenting himself to God the Father, as our Mediator and Redeemer. Heb. 9.24 1 Jo. 2.1. 2 By promising obedience, and thankfulness on our behalf joh. 17.6 25.26 3 By praying for us. joh. 17.9. Quest. What doth he do as a King? Ans. He doth rule and defend his kingdom, and redeemed people from all evil, and doth continue them in the grace and favour of God, for ever. Psa 2.6.8, 9. Luke 1.32. Joh. 10.28. mat. 2.8.20. Heb. 12.28. Quest. How doth he do this? Ans. 1 By getting victory over his and our enemies. 1 Cor. 15.54, 55. Col. 2.15. Heb. 2.14. Hos. 13.14. 2 By calling and gathering together the people of his kingdom, and taking possession in their hearts. joh. 17.11.12. jo. 10.16. Ephes. 4.11. Ephes. 3.17. 3 By prescribing to them laws of obeying, and believing. mat. 17.5. Acts 17.31. Isai. 11.2, 3, 4. 4 By moving their hearts inwardly through the feeling of Gods present favour, and hope of future glory, to believe and obey. Rom. 8.14. Mat. 3.11. 2 Cor. 7.4, 5. 2 cor. 5.20. 5 By bestowing on them all things needful to salvation. Psal. 45.13, 14. Ephe. 4.11, 12. 6 By restraining, and punishing the enemies which rise against them. 1 cor, 15.24, 25. Quest. You said but even now, that Christs sufferings, in regard of his Godhead, were of an infinite value, did he therefore in the intention of God his Father, die for, and redeem all men, as the Papists and their Adherents teach? Ans. he redeemed men of all nations, and of all conditions, but not all particular persons. Rev. 5.9. Rom. 8.33, 34. joh. 17.19, 20. Joh. 10.15. Ephes. 5.23. Quest. How do you further make the truth hereof apparent? Ans. By divers things: 1 The Father did not choose all, therefore neither did the Son die for, and redeem all: for the work of the Son in Redemption doth not exceed the work of the Father in Election, because he worketh from the Father. joh. 17.2.4. joh. 15.15. joh. 12.49, 50. 2 The Spirit doth not sanctify all, therefore neither did the Son redeem all: for the work of the Spirit in Sanctification, cometh not short of the work of the Father in Election, nor of the Son in Redemption; because he worketh from the Father and the Son, taking possession of what the Father did choose, and the Son purchase, sanctifying whom the Son did redeem. jo. 14.26. jo. 15.26. jo. 16.7.13, 14, 15. 1 Pet. 1.2. 3 The love of God and Christ, which was the moving cause of his death, doth not extend to all, neither was his death intended for all. joh. 3.16. joh. 13.1. Rom. 9.13. 4 Christ did not rise again for all, therefore neither did he die for all. Rom. 4.25. 1 Cor. 15.20. 5 Christ doth not pray for all; therefore neither did he die for, and redeem all. joh. 17.9. 6 The death, resurrection, and intercession of Christ are inseparable, make him a complete Redeemer, and are peculiar to Gods chosen people. Rom. 8.33, 34. 7 Christ doth not inwardly instruct all, as a Prophet. mat. 13.13. nor spiritually rule in the hearts of all, as a King. Rom. 16.16. therefore neither did he die for all, as a Priest, for the offices of Christ are of equal extent. 8 For whom Christ died, to them are given the Spirit, Faith, Hope, Love, and every other saving grace. Rom. 8 31, 32. but this all men have not. 2 Thes. 3.2. 9 Had Christ laid down his life a ransom for all men, then the Justice of God being once satisfied, a second punishment could not without injustice be inflicted. Mat. 20.28. Isai. 53.11, 12. Quest. Wherein standeth this Redemption thus wrought by Christ? Ans. In three things: I. In satisfying Gods Justice by suffering the full punishment of sin. Mar. 10.45. Isai. 53.5. II. In fulfilling Gods Law, by obeying perfectly. Mat 5.17. Ro. 10.4. III. In delivering us from the power of sin, and curse due to the same, by applying unto us the benefits of his active and passive obedience. Rom 8.2, 3. 2 Cor. 15.15. Quest. Why must this punishment be suffered by Christ? Answ. Because otherwise there is no escaping of eternal death. Heb. 9.22. Quest. Why must the law be fulfilled by Christ? Answ. Because otherwise there is no enjoying of eternal life. Rom. 5.18, 19. Quest. Why must the benefits of Christs active and passive obedience be applied? Answ. Because otherwise our sin is not destroyed, our imperfections are not covered, our persons and actions are not accepted, neither is the wrath of God against us appeased. Phil. 3.8, 9, 10. Rom. 8.8, 9. Rom. 7.5. Rom. 6.22.23. Quest. How is the mystery of our Redemption made known unto us? Ans. By the preaching of the Gospel, Lu. 24, 25, 26. Acts 10.43. Quest. How is this Redemption received, and embraced by us. Ans. Only by faith. joh. 3.16. Quest. For what end did Christ redeem us? Answ. To serve God always in true holinesse. Luk. 1.74, 75. Tit. 2.14. Quest. What benefits of our Redemption must we see in ourselves. Ans. These seven: I. freedom from the bondage of Satan. Hebr. 2.14. 1 joh. 3.8, 9. II. A death of Sin. Rom. 6.5, 6. III. newness of life. 1 Cor. 5.7, 8. Reve. 5.9, 10. IIII. Reconciliation with God. Rom. 5.1. Col. 1.20. Ephes. 2.13. V. An holy agreement between our hearts, and Gods Commandements. 1. joh. 5.3. VI. An heavenly peace in our Consciences. 1 jo. 3.21. Rom. 5.5. VII. An holy triumph over the fear of death. 1 Cor. 15.57. CHAP. IIII. Question. WHat is the third step by which God doth proceed in the work of mans salvation? Ans. Vocation. Quest. What is vocation? Answ. It is a holy and gracious work of God, by his Word and Spirit calling men sinful and subject to damnation out of their natural, and corrupt estate, to believe in Christ, and to led a new life. Acts. 26.18. Quest. What are the parts of vocation? Ans. They are two. 1. The offering. 2. The receiving of Christ. joh 1.11.12. Quest. What is the offering of Christ to us in our vocation? Ans. The proposing of Christ as the only necessary and sufficient means of salvation. 1 Cor. 1.23.24. Heb. 7.25. Acts 4.12. Quest. What is the receiving of Christ? Ans. The joining of Christ unto man, and of man unto Christ. joh. 6.56. Ephes. 5.23. Quest. How doth God call men to this new estate? Ans. By the ministry of the word as the outward, by the working of the Spirit as the inward means. Acts 10.44. Acts 16.14. Acts 9.15. Ephes. 1, 17. 1 Cor. 3.6. Quest. From what doth God call them? Ans. From the bondage of Satan, and service of all sin. col. 1.12, 13. Tit. 3.3, 4. Mat. 9.13. Quest. Whereunto doth he call them? Ans. Unto true holinesse. 1 Thes. 4.7. Quest. Why doth he thus call them? Answ. I. That they may have union, and communion with Christ Jesus. 1 Cor. 1.9. II. That they may love, fear, and honour God in Christ. Iere. 32.39, 40. III. That they may make sure their election unto themselves. 2 Pet. 1.10. IIII. That they may be fit to inherit eternal glory. 2 Pet. 1.3. Rev. 21.27. Quest. Who are they that be thus called? Ans. By the outward ministry of the Word good and bad are called. Mat. 20.16. Mat. 13.47, 48. but by the inward working of the Spirit the chosen onely are called. Rom. 8.30. Acts 13.48. Quest. What are the properties of vocation? Ans. They are five: I. It is free. joh. 3.8. Rom. 8.28 Isai. 44.6, 7. II. It is holy. 2 Tim. 1.9. III. It is irresistible. joh. 6.37. Joh. 10.16. Isa. 55.10.11, 12, 13. Ezek. 36.25, 26. IIII. It is peculiar to the chosen, Acts. 13.48. V. It is unchangeable. Rom. 11.29. Ierem. 32.40. Quest. How may a man know that he is effectually called? Answ. By nine signs accompanying it. Quest. What be they? Ans. I. True illumination, whereby a man is able to see his own wretchedness by sin; and also to behold the riches of Gods mercy in Christ towards his own soul, 1 Pet. 2.9. II. A through detestation of that sin which hath formerly been most pleasing to him. Hos. 14.8. Isa. 30.21, 22. Luk. 19.8, 9. III. A loathing of evil, and delighting in holy company. 2. Cor. 6.17, 18. Psal. 119.115. Psal. 26.4, 5. Psal. 16.3. IIII. A competent measure of grace befiting that calling, with a holy care to walk as beseemeth the same. Ephes. 4.1. 1 Thess. 2.12. V. A singular readiness to perform all the Lords Commandements. Gal. 1.15, 16. Cant. 1.4. Psal. 119.32. VI. A careful endeavour to have peace with all men, so much as may be; but especially with Gods people. Rom. 12.18. Col. 3.15. 1 Cor. 7.15. 1 Pet. 3.8, 9. VII. A hearty cleaving unto God, and making a good profession of Gods Truth, in all estates. 1 Tim, 6.11. Luk. 9.23.26. VIII. A high estimation of this calling, and of the means by which a man is called. Phil. 3.14. Ps. 119.72. IX. A comfortable experience of Gods disposing and ordering all things to work for the best unto him. Rom. 8.28. Gen. 41.52. Gen. 50.20. Quest. What fruits doth this doctrine of mans Misery, Redemption, and Vocation bring forth in them whom God hath ordained to life eternal? Ans. It doth work 10. several graces in them. Quest. What is the first? Ans. A clear sight of our woeful and loathsome estate by nature. Prov. 30.1.2. Iere. 31.18. Rom. 7.9 Quest. What is the second? Answ. A true sense of our misery by sin. Psal. 38.4. Rom. 7.24. Quest. What is the third? Ans. Contrition, and brokenness of heart. 2 Cor. 7.10. Psal. 51.17. Luke 7.38. Quest. What is the fourth? Ans. A through detestation of sin. Psal. 119.128. Hos. 14.8. Quest. What is the fift? Ans. An earnest desire of the pardon of sin, Ps. 51.9. Quest. What is the sixth? Ans. A holy consultation what to do to get forth of this sinful estate. Acts 16 29, 30. Quest. What is the seventh? Answ. A humble and free confession of all sin. Psal. 32 5. Psal. 139.23. Luke 15.18, 19. Psal. 51 3. Quest What is the eight? Ans. An unfeigned forsaking of all sin, to enjoy the graces of the Spirit, and favour of God. mat. 13.44. Isai. 30.22. Psal. 66.18. Quest. What is the ninth? Ans. A sound application of Christ and his promises to our own souls, trusting in Christ, and casting ourselves wholly upon him for pardon and salvation. joh. 20.28. Phil. 3.12, 13. Quest. What is the tenth? Answ. An high valuing of Christ, strong and fervent love to Christ, and an holy relishing of more sweetness in the Gospel, than in any thing in the world, consecrating ourselves to Christ in holinesse and true righteousness to serve him. Luk 7.47. Psa. 4.6, 7. Ierem. 15, 16. Psal. 119.103. Rom. 10.15. Rom. 12.1, 2. CHAP. V. Question. WHat is the fourth step by which God proceedeth in the work of mans salvation? Answ. Justification. Quest. What is Justification? Answ. It is a gracious action of God, whereby he imputeth the righteousness of Christ to all true believers, and for the merit of Christ freely absolveth them from all their sins, and reputeth them just unto life. Rom. 3.22.24. 2 cor. 5.21. Psalm. 32.1.2. Quest. How manifold is justification? Answ. Twofold. legal. Rom. 2.13 Evangelicall. Rom. 5.18. Quest What is the matter of our justification? Answ. Christs active and passive obedience: together with his original righteousness. Gal. 3.10. Rom. 5.19. Quest. How is Christs original righteousness a part of his satisfaction, and of our Justification? Answ. I. Christs original righteousness answers our original sin. II. The law requires not only actual obedience, but also original, and full conformity. III. Whole Christ is ours, and whatsoever he was made, whatsoever he did, or was, that he was made, that he did and was for us. Isa. 9 6. 1 Cor. 1.30. Quest. Is the active obedience of Christ necessary to our lustification, as well as his passive? Ans. Yes. For, I. As Christs passive obedience was necessary for the expiation of our sin, so his active obedience is necessary for the obtaining of life eternal. II. As the law bindeth to punishment, threatening death to them that transgress it. Deuter. 27.26. So it bindeth to obedience, promising life to them that keep it. Levit. 18.5. Luk. 10.28. III. As Christs passive obedience answers mans guilt of Sin, and damnation: so his active obedience answers mans want of righteousness. Rom. 3.22. Quest. What are the parts of justification? Answ. Two: I. The Imputation of Christs righteousness, whereby the believer hath his sin covered, and is accepted as just in the sight of God. Philip. 3.8, 9, 10. II. Remission of sin, whereby the believer is freed from the guilt, and punishment of sin. Col. 1.21.22. 1 Pet. 2.24. Quest. What is the moving cause of mans justification? Ans. The inward moving cause is Gods mercy, Rom. 3.24. the outward moving cause is the merit and efficacy of Christs active and passive obedience. 1 joh. 1.7. 2 Cor. 5.18, 19. Quest. What is the formal cause? Answ. The Imputation of Christs righteousness. 2 Cor. 5.2. 1 Cor. 1.30. Iere. 23.5. Quest. What is the instrumental cause of our justification? Answ. A lively faith, laying hold on the righteousness of Christ. Rom. 3.28. Quest. Doth faith alone justify us? Answ. Faith is alone in the act of justifying; but not alone in the heart and life of the justified person. Rom. 3.28. Iam. 2.17. Ephes. 2.8, 9, 10. Gal. 5.6. Quest. What is Faith? Ans. It is a holy and steadfast resting of the heart upon God in Christ, as the only and all-sufficient Author of salvation, and life eternal, Isai. 10.20. Psal. 37.3, 4, 5. Rom. 10.11. 2 Cor. 3 4. 2 cor. 5.6, 7, 8. Deut. 30.20. Quest. What is the nature of Faith in general? Ans. To cleave unto the Lord, and to cast ourselves, and our burden upon him in all estates. Ios. 23.8. Acts 11.23. 1 Cor. 6.17. Psal. 55.22. Psal. 62.8. 1 Pet. 5.7. Quest. What doth the nature of Faith more particularly comprehend under it? Ans. I. Knowledge of that which God hath proposed to be believed. 1 joh. 4.16. jo. 10.38. Jo. 17.3. II. Assent to the proffer of grace. jo. 3.33. III. A pious affection towards God, whence ariseth a high estimation of the promise of life, and a base account of all things in comparison of the love of God in Christ. Deut. 4.4. Deut. 11.22. Cant. 1.2. Psal. 63.3. IIII. An earnest desire after the happiness revenled in the Gospel. Isai. 55.1. Gal. 5.5. Luke 2.25. V. A resting upon God in Christ, for the obtaining of that good which he hath proposed to us in his Word. Iere. 17.7. joh. 6.68. VI. An election, choosing, and apprehending of the promise of life in Christ, so making it our own. jo. 1.12. Quest. Wherein standeth the essence and perfection of faith? Ans. In our election, apprehending, and singling out of Christ unto ourselves, as the only sufficient and fit means to bring us to life. Cant. 2.16. joh. 20.28. Psal. 119.30.31. Quest. Whereupon is faith builded? Answ. Upon the sacred Scriptures alone, whose author is God. 2 Pet. 1.19, 20. Rom. 3, 4. 1 Cor. 2.5. Quest. Whence is it that the act of believing springeth? Ans. From the internal operation, and persuasion of the holy Spirit, as the proper cause of it. 1 Cor. 12.3.11. Quest. What is the outward and ordinary means by which Faith is wrought? Ans. By the faithful preaching of Gods Word. Rom. 10.14, 15.17. Ephes. 1.13. 1 cor. 1.21. Iere. 3.15 Acts 13.42 40. Jsa. 57 19. Quest. What is the object of Faith? Ans. Christ as Redeemer is the mediate object of Faith, and God is the ultimate, for we believe in God, through Christ. Rom. 6.11. 2 cor. 3, 4. 1 Pet. 1.21. Quest Whereunto doth Faith carry the heart of the believer to seek true comfort? Ans. To the merit of Christ, and to the promises, and providence of God. joh. 14.1, 2. 2 Timo. 1.12. Rom 4.21. Heb. 11.13. Quest. What is the Subject or seat of Faith? Ans. The heart and will of the Regenerate. Ro. 10.10. Quest. Whence doth it appear that the will rather than the understanding is the seat of Faith? Ans. I. Because Faith is an act of election, choosing and embracing Christ, and making him ours, which is more than an act of the understanding. Jo. 1.12. joh. 6.35. II. Because, though Faith doth always presuppose the knowledge of the Gospel, yet there is no saving knowledge distinct from that which is in many Reprobates, unless it be both consequent unto, and also dependant upon the act of the will. jo. 7.17. jo. 8.31, 32. 1 jo. 2.3. III. Because Faith uniteth us to Christ, causeth us to give and apply ourselves unto God in Christ, which is not an act of the understanding, but a consent and work of the will. 2 cor. 5.14, 15. IIII. Because knowledge of itself, is common to believers, with unbelievers and devills. Iam. 2.19, 20. Quest. In what order, or by what degrees doth God prepare them to believe, whom he hath ordained unto life? Ans. I. By the Law. II. By the Gospel. Quest. How by the Law? Answ. I. By enlightening the sinner to see his miserable estate by sin, with the punishment due to the same. Rom. 7.7.9. Rom. 3.20. II. By convincing the sinner, that he is the guilty person, to whom the Messenger of the Lord speaketh. 1 cor. 14.24.25. 2 Sam. 12.7. III. By raising the Sinner out of his Security, filling his soul with terror, making him see the fulfilling of the Law to be impossible, making him feel the bearing of the punishment to be intolerable, and the committing of the sin uncomfortable. Gen. 4.7.13. Acts 16.29. Quest. Are all such as be thus wrought upon by the Law, afterward brought to believe? Answer No. Many Reprobates, and Hypocrites are thus convinced, and terrified, and so left. mat. 27.3, 4, 5. Gen. 4.13.16, 17. Acts 24.25. 2 cor. 3.6. And yet ordinarily all such as are appointed unto life, are thus in some degree wrought upon by the law in the beginning, and so lead forward unto faith by the Gospel. Acts 2.37. Jere. 31.18. Quest. After men are thus prepared by the law, how doth God led them forward by the Gospel? Answ. He doth by the Gospel proclaim a remedy for the easing of the soul of the sinner so distressed, and appeasing of the Conscience so disquieted. Jo. 3.16. Mat. 11.28. Isa. 61.1.2. II. By the Gospel, the Sinner thus afflicted is persuaded in the general, that God is merciful, and that there is a remedy in Christ for sinners: and by this general persuasion is supported against despair, though he cannot make any particular application hereof unto himself, for the present. Isa. 55.6, 7. 2 Sam. 24.14. Psal. 130.7, 8. Dan. 9.9. Eze. 10.2, 3. Lam. 3.22.23. III. Hereupon; the thoughts of his own misery, the sweet voice of the Gospel, and the consideration of Gods loving kindness in Christ working upon him, his heart becometh soft, humble, teachable, contrite and broken for sin, and for dishonouring God, so loving, and long suffering. Rom. 2.4. Zech. 12.10. Quest. But how may a man know that his Contririon is not legal, but Evangelicall? Ans. legal terror is chiefly for fear of punishment, leaving the soul still hardened, but Evangelicall contrition is chiefly for sin, making the heart truly soft, and causing sin to be earnestly, deeply, and constantly bewailed. Psal. 38.3.4. Psal. 31.10. mat. 26.75. Zech. 12.10. 2 cor. 12.7. Quest. When the Gospel, like fire, hath melted the stoney heart of the sinner, how doth it work further? Answ It doth beget in him further: I. An utter dislike, shane, and detestation of all his former courses. Jsa. 30.22. Jere. 31.19. Ezek. 37.31. II. And unfeigned and full confession and aggravation of his sin. 1 Sam. 12, 13. 1 Tim. 1.15. Lam. 3.40. III. It doth empty him of all conceit of his own goodness, causing him utterly to deny himself. 1 cor. 3.18. Rom. 7.18. IIII. It causeth him to wait on God for direction to guide him, and to led him forth of this perplexed estate, crying earnestly to God for consolation. Psal. 51.8, 9, 10, 11, 12. Psal. 143.8, 9, 10. V. Having felt his own wants, despairing of help in himself, and having seen Gods offer, and the excellency of Mercy in Christ; he doth above all things, most strongly desire the pardon of sin, and faith to believe the Promise of Gods mercy in Christ to his own soul. Luk. 18.13. Psal. 143.1.2.6. Isai. 26.8, 9. VI. He is solicitously careful in the use of the means to attain Faith, 2 Pet. 1.10. findeth no rest, till he getteth some assurance, Psal. 38.3. Psal. 116.3, 4. hungereth, and thirsteth vehemently after it. mat. 5.6. Psal. 63.1. casteth away whatsoever may hinder it. Matth. 13.44, 45. waiteth on the Lord with patience, Isa. 28, 16. beginneth at length to be persuaded in his heart that he shall have it. Ps. 103.8. Hebr. 10.37. Mar. 9.24. and so at length, God doth seal up unto his soul, the pardon of his sin, and doth enable him to believe the same. Ephes. 1.13, 14. Psal. 116.6, 7.8. Quest. How far may a Reprobate go in this way? Ans. He may go fourteen steps. Quest. Which be they? Ans. I. He may know, and aclowledge the truth. 2. Pet. 2.21 Lu. 12.47. 1 cor. 13.2. II. He may be troubled in conscience by hearing the Word. Acts 24.25. III. He may be perplexed in mind about sin, before he doth commit it. Mar. 6.26. IIII. He may be full of sorrow after the commission of sin. mat. 27.3, 4. V. He may confess his sin in time of vexation, Exod. 9.27. VI. He may pray, and desire others to pray for him in the day of affliction. Acts. 8.24. 1 Kings 21.27. VII. He may be at great costs in and about Gods service. Gen 4.3. Isa. 1.11, 12, 13. Mica. 6, 6.7. VIII. He may make an open and glorious profession of the ways of godliness. Isa. 58.2. jo 6.26. Ezek. 33.31, 32. Mat 25.1 2. 3. IX. He may take joy and taste sweetness in some part of Gods Word. Mar 6.20. mat. 13 20, 21. Hebr. 6.5. X. He may amend his life in many things, and be zealous, and so far escape all the pollutions of the world, that none can justly tax him with any open evil. 2 Pet. 2.20. Mar. 6.20. 2 Kings 20.28, 29. XI. He may wonder at, and be strangely affencted with the glorious things revealed in Gods ordinances. Luk. 4.22.23. XII. He may approve, and commend the best Preachers, and frequent the best company, and desire their gifts and graces. Ezek. 33.31, 32. mat. 25, 1.8. XIII. He may delight in frequenting Gods house, he may hold out with Christ in great trouble, and upon some inward, yet common work, persuade himself of being in Gods favour. Isa. 58.2, 3. Mat. 13.22. Prov. 14.12. Isa. 1.26. XIIII. He may give liberally to the needy, and suffer even death in the cause of Christ. 1 Cor. 13.3. Quest. Is it not a great discouragement to Gods children, that hypocrites go so far in the way to heaven, and that Gods children are so hardly distinguished from them? Ans. No: but they must labour so much the more earnestly to go beyond them, and to make their Calling& Election sure. Mat. 5, 20. 2 Pet. 1.10. Quest. Wherein doth a child of God go beyond an Hypocrite? Ans. In Twelve things: I. In hating sin universally, and thoroughly. Psal. 119.104. Psal. 66.18. II. In resting upon God firmly, and constantly. Rom. 8.38. Psalm. 62.8. Col. 2.7. III. In loving God unfeignedly, for the purity and loveliness of Gods nature. Deut. 6.5. Cant. 2.5. mat. 10.37. IIII. In meditating upon, and rejoicing in the whole Word of God. Psal. 119.14, 15, 16.143. Ierem. 15.16. V. In obeying the whole will of God cheerfully. Ps. 40.8. Psal. 110.3. Ps. 119.128. 1 joh. 5.3. VI. In desiring sincerity with much earnestness. Psal. 139.23, 24. VII. In exercising holy duties with Constancy, and striving to keep a good conscience toward God and man continually. job 27.6.11 Acts 24.16. VIII. In being truly poor in Spirit, carried clear out of themselves, and every thing else, to Christ alone for all fullness. Jsa. 57.15. IX. In performing duties in love to Christ, desiring grace, that he may honor Christ, grieving that he can perform no better service to Christ. X. In desiring, and endeavouring the glory of God, and Christ above his own spiritual and temporal good. Rom. 9.3. Luk. 14.26. XI. In taking up his full and everlasting rest with Christ, Phil. 1.21. Christ being all contentation to him, heaven itself being without Christ an uncomfortable and empty dwelling in his apprehension. Phil. 3.7, 8, 9, 10. XII. In being inclined, moved, and carried to God, to Christ, and holy things. 1 By the power of a new, and inward principle of grace; working a suitableness between his heart and the things of God. 2 By the virtue of a clear and sweet apprehension which he hath of God in Christ, making him appear most glorious in his eyes. 3 By the efficacy of a pure and fervent love to God in Christ, causing him to desire Christ for Christ himself, and all other things for Christs sake, to make himself the more serviceable unto Christ. Psa. 40.8. Psal. 119.32. Quest. How may a man know that he hath Faith? Ans. 1 By the sense and feeling of faith itself: the believer perceiving, and feeling his heart choosing, and singling out, strongly cleaving unto, and relying upon Christ. Rom 8.38, 39. 1 Cor. 2.12. Mar. 9.24. 2 Tim. 1.12. 2 By the fruits and signs of Faith. Mat. 7.16, 17. Iam. 2.18. Quest. How many sorts of signs are there? Ans. Two: one of faith more weak; the other of faith more strong. Quest. What are the signs of faith more weak? Ans. 1 A feeling of the want of faith with an earnest desire to have it. Mar. 9.24. 2. A spiritual combat between the flesh and the Spirit. Gal. 5.17. Rom. 7.23. mat. 11.28. 3. An earnest seeking after, and valuing of the love of God in Christ, above all the things in the world. Cant. 2.4. Psal. 51.8.10. Psal. 4 6. 4 denial of ourselves, arising from the apprehension of our own vileness and emptiness; and Christs fullness to supply our wants. Mar. 8.34. 1 Cor. 3.18. Ezek. 20.43. 5 Godly sorrow arising from the apprehension of Gods love in Christ, softening, and melting our hearts. Rom. 2.4. 2 Cor. 7.10, 11. Zech. 12.10. 6 An high estimation of Gods word. job. 23.12. Psal. 119.72. 1 Pet. 2.2. 7 unfeigned love to Gods people. 1 jo. 3.14. Gal. 5, 6. Quest. What are the signs of faith more strong? Answ. 1 A comfortable feeling of Gods love shed abroad into our hearts. Rom. 5.5. Cant. 1.2. 2 A sound and strong joy in the Lord, and in his Word. Rom. 15.13. Phil. 4.7. joh. 15.11. Isai. 9.3. Neh. 8.10. 3 A holy admiration at the wonderful change which God hath wrought in us. Psal. 66.16. 4. An earnest endeavour to win others unto Christ. Luk. 22, 32. 5 An effectual and through application of ourselves to Christ, to serve him, and seek his praise, in, and above all things. Rom. 12.1, 3. 2 Cor. 5.15. 6 A firm dependence upon God, in the deepest perplexities, with a strong persuasion of a happy issue out of all troubles. job 19.25. job 13.5. Rom. 4, 18. 7 An earnest longing for Christs coming unto judgement. 2 Tim. 4.8. Cant. 8.1. Psalm 42.1.2. Rev. 22.20. Quest. Cannot a weak Faith save us? Ans. Yes: for it ingrafteth us into Christ, maketh us just in Gods sight, gathereth us into the Family of Gods Children, and giveth us victory over sin, and Satan. joh. 15.1. jo. 1.12. Gal. 3.7 Isa. 42.3. Isa. 40.11. 1 joh. 5.4. Quest. May a man, having gotten a weak faith, rest contented therewith? Ans. No: but he must carefully endeavour to have it increased. Mark. 9.24. Rom. 1.17. Col. 2.7. Quest. By what means may a man get his weak Faith confirmed? Ans. 1 By an ordinary, and conscionable use of the Word and Sacraments. Ephes. 1.13. Rom. 4.11. 2 By fervent prayer unto God. Luk. 17.5. 3 By a frequent and holy meditation upon Gods promises, fatherly affection, and unspeakable goodness. Psalm. 104.34. Psalm. 63.5, 6. Isai. 49.14.15. 4 By exercising a holy communion with the Saints of God. jo. 20.19.25. 5 By a holy care to shun all sin, with all occasions leading thereunto. Jam. 1.27. 1 Thes. 5.22. 6 By leading a sincere, and sanctified conversation. Ps. 11●. 6, 7, 8. 1 Jo. 3.19. 7 By a patient waiting upon God. Psalm. 40.1, 2, 3. Qu. What may move us to get this Faith wrought in us. Ans. The benefit and excellency of Faith. 2 Pet. 1.1. 1 Pet. 1.7. Quest. Wherein doth the benefit, and excellency of Faith appear? Ans. The benefit and excellency of Faith appeareth three ways: 1 In the miseries from which it delivereth. 2 In the evils which it preventeth. 3 In the privileges which it bestoweth. Quest. What are the miseries from which Faith delivereth? Ans. They are seven: 1 From blindness in our understandings. John 15.46. 2 From uncleanness in our affections. Acts 15.9. 3 From a stony and stupefied heart. Zech. 12.10. Jona. 3.5. 4 From the terror of an accusing conscience, and the insupportable burden of our corruptions. Luk. 7.48.50. Num. 21.8. Rom. 5.1. 5 From the sinful lusts, fashions, and yielding to the oppositions of the world. 1 jo. 5.4. Ro. 12.1.2. 6 From the curse of the Law, and terror of the Word. Rom. 10.4. 1 Tim. 1.9. 7 From the fear of temporal, and condemnation of death eternal. joh. 5.29. joh. 3.16. Quest. What are the evils which Faith preventeth? Ans. They are four: 1 apostasy from the Truth. Heb. 10.39. 2 Utter desperation in the day of affliction. Mic. 7, 8. job 19.25. 3 Impatience, and use of unlawful means. Isai. 28.16. 4 Sinking under Satans temptation. Ephes. 6.16. 1 Pet 5.9. Quest. What are the privileges which Faith wrought and confirmed, bestoweth on us? Ans. They are Twelve: 1 Sonship with God. Jo. 1.12. Gal. 3.7. 2 Fellowship with Christ. Gal. 2.20. Ephes. 3.17. 3 Interest in all Gods Promises. Hebr. 11.33. Gal. 3.14. 4 True comfort and benefit by all Gods Ordinances. Acts 8.38, 39. mat. 13.24. 1 Thes. 1.7. 5 Acceptance to our persons and actions. Hebr. 11.4.6. 6 Audience to our holy, and fervent prayers. Ja. 1.6 Ja. 5.15, 16. mat. 21, 22. 7 A comfortable sense of Gods love in our hearts. Rom. 5.5. Cant. 1.2. Psal. 63.3. 8 A sweet peace in our consciences, arising from the assured forgiveness of our sins. Rom. 5.1. Ps. 116.7, 8. 9 A heavenly sweetness in the Society of Gods servants. Rom. 1.12. Psal. 119.72. 10 A holy contempt of carnal pleasures, with a sweet joy in the deepest afflictions. Hebr. 11.25, 1 Pet. 1.6, 7. 11 Perseverance to the end in the way of godliness, and favour of the Lord Jesus. 1 Pet 1.5. 12 Assurance of future happiness after this earthly pilgrimage. 2 Cor. 5.1. Quest. May a man have his Faith so strengthened, that he may be thereby assured of his Salvation? Ans. He may, and ought to be assured in this life of a happy and glorious estate in the next life. 2 Cor. 13.5. 2 Cor. 5.1. 1 Jo. 3.1, 2. 1 jo. 5.18, 19. Quest. How doth it appear, that the children of God are sure of their salvation? Ans. Divers ways: 1 By the victory which their Faith getteth over sin. 1 jo. 5.4. Rom. 6.18. 2 By the holy change which it worketh in them. Acts 15.9. 1 Jo. 3.3. 2 Cor. 5.17, 18. 3 By feeling their hearts embracing, cleaving unto, and relying upon Christ. Col. 2.7. job 13.15. Heb. 6.19. Psal. 18.1, 2. Psal. 71.1. 4 By the testimony of Gods Spirit. Rom. 8.16. 5 By the evidence, and witness of their own regenerate Spirit, Rom. 8.16. 1 jo. 3.21. 6 By the feeling of Gods love in their souls. Eph. 3.19. Rom. 5.5. 7 By feeling their hearts to love God and Christ above all the world. Psal. 73.25. Cant. 5.10. 8 By the confidence wherewith they can appear before God in prayer. Rom. 8 15. 1 jo. 3.20, 21. 9 By the fruits which they see in themselves proper alone to Gods children, 1 Cor. 2.9, 10. 10 By feeling the power and efficacy of Gods Word, and Spirit, persuading their Consciences of Gods goodness towards them. Rom. 1.16. 1 jo. 4.13. Acts 10.44. Quest. Is it requisite that Gods people should labour for assurance of salvation? Ans. Yes: for it is Gods precept. 2 Pet 1.10. 1 Jo. 3.23. one special end of inditing the Scriptures. 1 Jo. 5.13. and the choicest comfort of a Christian soul. Luk. 10.20. Col. 2.2. Qu. What is the danger or inconvenience, if a man be not assured of his salvation? Ans. 1 The Ordinances and Promises of God will lose their comfort, sweetness, and efficacy. Heb. 4.2. 1 Pet. 2.7, 8. Isa. 53.1, 2. 2 The consideration of Gods presence will be dreadful, and the thought of Christs coming unto judgement uncomfortable. Psal. 139.7. Revel. 6.16. 3 We shall not be able to bear afflictions with patience. Num. 14.11. 4 We shall not be able to perform holy duties with cheerfulness, Exod. 6.9. 5 We shall not be able to bless God for our Regeneration, joy, and comfort of the Spirit, as it is the duty of Gods people to do. Col. 1.12, 13. 1 Pet. 1.3. 6 We shall not be able to encourage others with alacrity and cheerfulness in the ways of holinesse, as we ought. Psal. 66.16. 7 We shall stand continually in the fear of death. job. 15.21.22. Quest. Are Gods children so sure of their salvation, that they are free from all doubting? Ans. No: For, 1 The knowledge, assent, and adherence of Gods people, to the promise of life, is imperfect, though sound. 1 Cor. 13.9. Psal. 77.7. 2 They are many times grievously assaulted, filled with much doubting, but in the issue they always get the conquest, and are the more assured, because they have been assaulted. 1 Cor. 10.13. Heb. 6.19. 2 Timo. 4.17, 18. Psal. 116.3.7, 8. Psal. 142.3. 3 They sometimes lose the efficacy, feeling, and comfort of Faith, but the seed and habit of faith alway remaineth. Luk. 22.32. job 13.5. 1 joh. 3.9. jo. 10.28. Quest. do not Gods children sometimes lose their comfort in the ways of God, and assurance of Gods love? Ans. Yes sometimes they are for a season deprived of the evidence, and sense thereof. Psal. 51.8.12. Isa. 49.14. Quest. How doth it come to pass that Gods children do sometimes lose their comfort in the Lord? Ans. 1 Through falling into some foul sin. Ps. 51.7.8, 9. Isa. 59.2. 2 Through some grievous and violent temptation, with the sense of Gods displeasure against them. Ps. 77.2, 3, 4. Psal. 22. 1. job 2.3.4. 3 Through overlong, and heavy affliction. Psal. 6.6, 7. 4 Through the rebellion of their inward corruption. Rom. 7.23, 24. 2 Cor. 12.7. 5 Through the want of conscionable, and constant attendance upon Gods ordinances. Psal. 42.4, 5. Amos. 8.11, 12. 1 Sam. 4.20, 21. Isa. 30.19.21. 6 Through carnal Security, and want of keeping a diligent watch over our souls. Cant. 5.3.6. 7 Through overburthening ourselves with the cares of the world. mat. 13.22. 8 Through estrangednesse from Gods servants, and familiarity with unholy people. Heb. 3.12, 13, 14. Heb. 10.24, 25. 9 through neglect of walking, and maintaining a holy communion with God. Psal. 106.21.23. Ps. 89.31, 32, 33. 10 God for their humiliation, trial of the graces which are in them, and for the breeding of a higher estimation of his favour for the time to come, sometimes deprives them of the comfortable feeling thereof for the time present. 2 Cron. 32.31. job 7.18, 19, 20. Deut. 8.2.16. Rev. 2.10. Quest. When Gods people are afflicted in Conscience, or deprived of their comfort, how may their peace be restored? Ans. By considering, and meditating upon ten things in God, and Christ. 1 The gentle, gracious, and merciful nature, and disposition of God, and Christ towards all penitent, and broken hearted people. Isa. 42.3. Exod. 34.6, 7. Isa. 40.11. Ps. 103.8, 9, 10. Isa. 49.14, 15. 2 The gracious, and loving invitations which God and Christ do use to all sorts of humbled sinners. Mat. 11.28. isa. 1.16, 17. Ezek. 18.31, 32. Psal. 81.13, 14, 15. Mat. 23.37. Revel. 3.20. 3 The freeness of Gods grace, and favour, bestowed without any merit, yea contrary to desert upon the Penitent. Jsai. 55.1. Revel. 21.6. Rom. 3.24. Ephes. 2.8. 4 The large extent of his favour to all sorts of sinners, even to the most heinous, unfeignedly seeking mercy. 1 Tim. 1.15. Luk. 7.47. Mat. 21.31 32 isa. 55.7. 5 His easiness to be entreated by penitent sinners. Psal. 32.5. Luk 15.20. 6 The largeness and faithfulness of his promises. Jsa. 44.24, 25, 26. 2 Cor. 1 20. Mal. 3.6. 7 The Sense, and feeling which God and Christ have, after a manner unspeakable, of the miseries of a troubled soul. Jsa. 63.9. Hebr. 4 15. 8 The efficacy of Christs blood, to purge away all sin, and appease his Fathers wrath. Heb. 9 14. Rev. 5.9 Heb 12 29. 9 The joy and delight he doth conceive, when men turn unto him Luk. 10.21. Joh 11.15. 10 The end of Christs Sufferings, his Merits, and efficacy of his Intercession for us. Mark 9.13. Rom. 8.33.34. isai 61.1, 2, 3. Quest. Are there not some other helps in this behalf? Ans. Yes: 1 unfeigned humiliation for the sin which hath cauesd us to lose our comfort. Psal. 32.5. Psal. 51.8.9, 10 isai 57.15. 2 A plain opening of our estates, and seeking of direction from Gods holy Ministers. Acts 2.37, 38. Acts 16.30.31, 32. Isa 50.4. Isa. 40.1, 2. 3 A constant attendance upon, and cleaving to the ministry of the Word. Cant. 5, 6, 7. Psal. 65.4. Ps. 85.6, 7, 8. 4 Fervent and constant Prayer. Psal. 50.15. Psa. 34.4. 5 A careful shutting of our ears and hearts against Satans Temptations. Iam. 4.7. Ephes. 4.27. 6 A serious observation of the graces which God hath wrought in us. Mat. 7.16. 7 Keeping a holy Society with Gods people. Eccl. 4.11, 12, 13, 14. 8 Consider that our graces are imperfect, 1 Cor. 13.12. that Satan doth desire to vex Gods people. job. 1.11, 12. Lu. 22.31. that it is the usual manner of Gods dealing with his people, thus to afflict them, not for their destruction but for their humiliation, trial, and amendment. Heb. 12.5, 6, 7. 1 Cor. 10.13. Jam. 1.12. Quest. How may Gods people prevent the losing of their comfort? Ans. 1 By meditating seriously upon the loving kindness of the Lord every morning. Psal. 92 1, 2, 3, 4. 2 By walking religiously, and circumspectly in all the dueties of the day. Prov. 28.14. Prov. 23.17. 1 Pet. 1.17. 3 By viewing their ways, renewing their repentance, and making their peace with God every evening. Psal. 4.4. Quest. What are the hindrances whereby the people of God are deprived of their assurance and comfort? Ans. They are partly on the Ministers, and partly on the peoples behalf. Quest. What are the hindrances on the Ministers behalf? Ans. 1 Not teaching, seldom teaching, could, unprofitable, and licentious teaching, and profane walking. Jere. 23.1, 10, 11.14. Isa. 56.10 11. Quest. What Impediments are there on the behalf of the people? Answ. On the behalf of wicked people, 1 A sinful presumption upon the goodness of their present estate. joh. 9.41. 2 An ill grounded hope upon Gods mercies. Iude vers. 4. 3 A resting in a bare profession of the Truth. Tit. 1, 16. 4 Reservation of some beloved sin. Mark. 6.18. Quest. What are the hindrances on the behalf of good people? Ans. 1 Ignorance of the saving graces, which God hath wrought in them. 2 concealment of their doubts, without seeking resolution. Psal. 32.3. 3 A sole, and overstrict fastening of their eyes upon their infirmities. Eccles. 7.17 4 discontentedness, and unruly passions. Num. 11.5. Exod. 14.12. 5 Neglect of the means. joh. 20.24, 25. 6 An unprofitable Conversation. 2 pet. 1.10, 11. Quest. What is the dignity arising to Gods people in this life from their justification? Answ. Adoption. Gal 5.4. joh. 1.12. Quest. What is Adoption? Answ. It is that divine favour, whereby of being strangers we receive the dignity of being sons and daughters unto God, through Christ: jo 1.12. 1 joh. 31.1, 2. 2 Cor. 6.17, 18. Ephes. 1.5. Gal. 4, 5. Quest. What are the benefits of Adoption? Answ. They are eight: 1 spiritual Sonship with God. Gal. 4.6. 2 Heireship with Christ. Rom. 8.17. 3 Peace with the Father. Rom. 5.1. 4 boldness in Prayer. Rom. 8.15. 5 Christian liberty. joh. 8.32.36. 6 Dominion over the creatures. Tit. 1.15. 1 Cor. 3.21, 22. 7 The ministration of the Angels. Hebr. 1.14. 8 Happy issue out of all affliction. Rom. 8.28. 2 Sam. 7.14. Quest. But are there not some do persuade themselves of their justification, and adoption, who notwithstanding are therein altogether deluded by Satan? Ans. Yes, some building upon a mere moral, formal, temporary, or partial reformation, are so deluded by Satan. 2 pet. 2.20.22. Matth. 12.41. mat. 25.1. Quest. How may we therefore discern the infallible persuasion of the Spirit from the delusion of the flesh and Satan. Ans. Wheresoever the true persuasion of the Spirit is: 1 There is sound and comfortable experience of a holy, and through change, carrying with it sorrow for, hatred against, and care to prevent all sin, and a hearty love to every good duty. psal. 66.16. psal. 119.104.127, 128. 2 The whole life is guided, and ordered according to the rule of Gods Word. Gal. 6.16. 3 There is a holy, humble, conscionable, and constant attendance upon, affectionate entertainment of, and an universal, and ready subjection to all the ordinances of God. job. 23.12. Psa. 84.10. Luke 1.6. 4 There is a constant putting up of strong, holy, filial, and fervent supplications, unto the throne of grace. 1 Thes. 5.17. Psalm. 109.4. Rom. 8.15. 5 There is a ready giving of liberty to every grace of the Spirit, to have its perfect work in every faculty of the soul, and action, and occasion of the life. Ia. 1.4. 6 There is a circumspectly, due, and tender regard had to every particular branch, and particle of every one of Gods precepts, even the least, as well as the greatest. Mat. 5.19. 1 Thes. 5.22. 7 There is an earnest desire, and holy endeavour to attain perfection in all goodness. Phil. 3.12, 13, 14. Psal. 84.7. 8 There is a blessed thriving, and gracious progress in true holinesse, even by that which in itself is the greatest hindrance. 2 Cor. 12.7, 8. Rom. 8.28. Psal. 119.71. 9 Satans assaults do usually attend it, that if it be possible he may either take away, or weaken the comfort of the heart so persuaded. Luk. 22.31. Zech. 3.1, 2, 3. 10 There is usually the most sweet, blessed, and comfortable communion between God and the sanctified soul so persuaded, when it is most scorned, and opposed by the world. Acts. 13.50. Psal. 27.10. Ps. 119.54. 11 There is a holy care to exalt God in all, and above all, preferring his honour before our own welfare. Rom. 9.1, 2. 2 Cor. 4 5. 12 At such times as we have prayed most fervently, bewailed our sin most hearty, and most deeply, conversed with God, most fully, and most solemnly, maintained our communion with God most carefully, frequented his ordinances most preparedly; do we feel this persuasion of the Spirit most lively, and most comfortably. Psal. 112.1, 2, 3, 4. Psalm. 23.4. Isai. 61.1, 2, 3. CHAP. VI. Question. WHat is the fift step by which God proceedeth in the work of mans salvation? Ans. Sanctification. Quest. What is Sanctification? Ans. It is a new quality of holinesse wrought in Godschosen and converted people. Rom. 12.1.2. Eph. 4.22. 2 Cor. 4.16. Quest. What are the parts of Sanctification? Ans. They are two: 1. Mortification, which is a destroying of the power and dominion of sin, and in part an abolishing of the same. Col. 3.3.5. 2 Vivification, which is a restoring of the image and life of God in man. Col 3.10. Qu. How manifold is sanctification? Ans. Inward and outward. Iam. 4.8. Quest. Wherein consisteth the inward Sanctification? Ans. 1 In the renewing of the mind, whereby ignorance is removed. Ephes 1.17 Col. 3.10. 2 In the change of the will, making it prompt, and ready to shun evil, and choose good. Rom. 12.1, 2. 3 In the renovation of the affections, whereby the sanctified man is enabled to moderate his affections in a right manner. Phil. 4.5. Quest Wherein consisteth the outward Sanctification? Answ. In making our whole outward conversation conformable to the Law of God. Psalm. 26.6. Quest. Who is the author of our Sanctification? Answ. As the Father doth choose, and the Son redeem, so the holy Ghost doth most properly sanctify. 1 Pet. 1.2. Tit. 3.4, 5. Mat. 3.11. Quest. Are we not able to sanctify and turn ourselves to God? Ans. No: our Sanctification is the gift and work of God in Jesus Christ; we can no more make ourselves new creatures, than we could at first make ourselves men. Act. 5.31. Act. 11.14. Psal. 51.10. Ephes. 2.10. Quest. If men cannot convert and sanctify themselves, why doth God command them so to do? Ans. 1 Because God created them able, and may justly require what he gave them. Eccles. 7.29. 2 Because God will thereby show man what he ought to do, humble him for his disability, stir him up to seek grace to do it, and will by the word of exhortation, accompanied with his Spirit, work ability in his chosen. John 5.25. Rom. 1.16. Rom. 7.8, 9. Quest. But when the Protestants teach that God doth by his Ministers exhort Reprobates, in whom he doth not intend to work Sanctification, do they not make God a deluder, and are not such exhortations in vain, as the jesuits affirm? Ans. No: For, 1 Hereby they are left, without all excuse. Rom. 1.20. Ezek. 2.5. jo. 15.22. 2 Hereby they are convinced of their own vileness, and constrained to acknowledge Gods proceedings to be righteous. Rom. 7.7, 8, 9. Ierem. 3.25. Ps. 64.8, 9. 3 Hereby through the contempt of it, they are the more hardened, and Gods Justice in their condemnation, is the more glorious. 2 Cor. 2.15, 16. Isa. 6.9, 10. 4 Hereby they are turned from many abominations, though not effectually converted. 1 Thes. 1.9. Tit. 2.11, 12, 13.15. Mark. 6.20. 2 Pet. 2.20. 5 Hereby they are brought to aclowledge God, and Christ Jesus, and so the Gospel is made in some sort the more glorious. Matth. 24.14. 1 Tim. 2.4. 6 This is the rule of life, and judgement proposed unto all. Gal. 6.16. Rom. 3.27. Joh. 12.48, 49. Ro. 2.12.16. 7 It is not the decree of Reprobation doth disable them, when God doth bid them, but their own infidelity and corruption. Mat. 23.37. 8 God doth invite men by his Ministers, and they know not but that the people so invited, are within the decree of Election. Mat. 23.37. Luk. 19.41, 42. 9 The invitations so used are most properly to the Elect, accidentally to the Reprobate, as they are mingled among the chosen. Mat. 13.24. 10 Hereby the strength of their love to sin, and mighty bent and inclination of their hearts to what is evil, is the more fully discovered. joh. 18.40. mat. 22.5, 6. 11 Gods invitations and promises are upon condition of Faith and Repentance. Mark. 16.15, 16. 12 Hereby they are sustained against despair, have hope of conversion during life, and are encouraged to attendance upon, and to yield some conformity unto the ordinances of God. Ezek. 33.11. 2 Pet. 3.9. Thus we see God doth not delude, but for good cause invite even Reprobates unto Repentance, and Holinesse, thereby sometimes in a great measure restraining them from running into the highest excess of evil, though he communicate not renewing grace unto them. Quest. How doth restraining and renewing grace differ? Ans. 1 They differ, first in their moving cause: renewing grace cometh from the special love of God to man in Christ: restraining grace proceedeth from the general, and common mercy of God. Psal. 145.2. 2 They differ in their effects: renewing grace changeth the nature of man, mortifieth and destroyeth sin, and makes man a new man throughout; restraining grace doth only inhibit the exercise of sin, working no real and gracious change in man. 2 Cor. 5.17, 18. 2 Tim. 3.5. 3 They differ in their extent: restraining grace is common to good and bad; renewing grace is proper to the Elect effectually called: restraining grace binds some one faculty of the soul, or member of the body; renewing grace doth work upon, and sanctify the whole man: restraining grace withholdeth man from some sin; renewing grace takes a man off from the dominion and love of all sin, and carries man to an equal observation of all Gods precepts: restraining grace keeps a man back from sin for a season; renewing grace so keeps man, that he returns no more to sin. 1 thessaly. 5.23. 1 joh. 2.19. Luk. 1.6. Psalm. 85.8. Quest. How doth that renewing and sanctifying grace, which is in Gods children, differ from that temporary grace, which is in them that fall away? Answ. I. They differ in the matter: temporary grace is a previous preparation, and disposition to Sanctification: saving grace is a holy seed, and gracious habit: differing one from the other, as an embryo from a child: the one brings a man nigh: the other enters, and states a man in the kingdom of grace. II. They differ in the Cause efficient: temporary grace is from the Word and Spirit, enlightening, exciting, and slenderly affecting the soul: saving grace is from the Word and Spirit, mightily, and graciously changing the whole man, transforming the heart, and turning the whole fabric of the soul to God. 2 Cor. 5.17. Acts. 15.19. 1 Thess. 1.9. III. They differ in the Subject: temporary grace is found in the unregenerate: saving grace is onely found in a regenerate and renewed heart. IIII. They differ in the principles from which they work: saving grace worketh from principles of its own, carrying a man to God and godly dueties, by a kind of natural, inward, sweet and pleasing propensity, and willingness, making a man apt and ready to every good duty. Psalm. 119.14.16.20.31.35. Ezek. 36.27. Cant. 1.4. Psalm. 110.3. But Temporary grace works from foreign, and false principles, as self-love, civill policy, Satans delusions, &c. 2 Cor. 11.13, 14, 15. Rom. 16.18. Phil. 1.15, 16. 2 Pet. 2.15, 16 1 Pet. 5.2. V. They differ in six effects: First, Saving grace causeth a man to find a spiritual, sweet, and full complacency in God, in Christ, and holy dueties; temporary grace ministers onely a weak, transitory, and flitting taste in the things of God, it never makes God and Christ the paradise, and onely joy of the soul. Psalm. 73.25. Psalm. 19.10. Psalm. 119.72.97.103. joh. 4.34, 35. Hebr. 6.5. joh. 5.35. 2 Saving grace puts a man upon the duties of godliness, out of an obedient, sincere, and honest heart, causing a man to serve God, for God himself: temporary grace, puts a man upon the duties of godliness from extrinsical, sinister, and wrong ends, and grounds. 2 Cor. 5.14. Isa. 38.3. 2 cron. 31.20, 21. Psal. 15.2. 2 Chron. 25.2. 2 King. 10.15. Matth. 6.1, 2.5. 3 Saving grace causeth a man to follow the Lord fully, in the destruction of all sin, in the observation of all Gods precepts, and in the application of the whole man to godly duties: temporary grace causeth a man to follow the Lord unevenly, haltingly, and by halves. Num 32.12. Ios. 14.8. 1 Kings. 11.4.6. Luk. 9.33, 34. Revel. 14.4. Mark. 6.20. Joh. 12.6. Hose. 7.8. 4 Saving grace makes a man humble, contrite, and broken hearted, it emptieth him wholly of himself, and carries him altogether out of himself unto Christ: temporary grace leaves a man in himself, remaining still guilty of self opinion, and self seeking. Isa. 57.15, 16. Isa. 61.2, 3. Isa. 66.2. 1 Pet. 5.5. Matth. 23.5. 5 Saving grace carries a man to Christ, for Christ: for the beauties and perfections which he sees in Christ, it puts him upon holy duties, to gain grace that he may serve Christ: temporary grace leads a man to Christ for selfe-respects, that he may obtain salvation by Christ. Hebr. 12.29. Cant. 5.10. joh. 6.26. mat. 19.16. 6 Saving grace disposeth the heart to the performance of holy duties in a holy, humble, serious& reverend manner, causing man to see matter of souleabas●ment in his best service: temporary grace puts man upon the performance of holy duties, in a customary, formal, perfunctory, or vain glorious manner. Ps. 2.10. Psalm. 5.7. Psalm. 89.7. Hos. 3.3. job 42.6. Matth. 13.5. 2 Sa. 6.6, 7. Eccles. 5.1.2. 2 Timo. 3.5. VI. They differ in their duration, saving grace enables a man to hold out unto the end, and to ascend to more perfection: temporary grace fainteth, faileth, and comes to nothing after a season. job 27.9. Isai. 40.29, 30, 31. Psal. 84.7. joh. 4.14. jo. 5.35. Matth. 13.21, 22. Quest. Is Sanctification and renewing grace ahsolutely needful unto salvation? Ans. Yes, for hereunto we are chosen, hereby we are like God, and without this we cannot enter into the kingdom of God. Ephes. 1.4. 2 Thes. 2.13. 1 Pet. 13. Ephes. 2.13. Jo. 13.5. Quest. What are the Conditions of our Sanctification? Answ. 1. It is true and sound. Ios. 24.14. Psalm. 32.2. 2 Inward as well as outward. Psal. 51.6. Joh. 4.24. Iam. 4.8. Rom. 12.1, 2. 3 universal, extending to all the faculties of the soul, and members of the body. 1 Thes 5.23. Luk. 1.6. Rom. 6.13. joh. 13.7. Ezek. 18.30, 31. 4 It doth still grow, and yet in this life it is not perfect. Phil. 3.12, 13. 1 Pet. 2.2. 1 Thes. 4.1. jo. 13.8. Isa 64.6. 1 Joh. 1.8. 5. It is constant, and doth not vanish. Psal. 84.7. Isa. 40.31. Quest. Is our Sanctification so sure and constant, that we can never lose it? Ans. We may lose some degrees of it, but the seed of grace still remaineth, and Gods renewed Image is never wholly abolished. 1 Joh. 3.9. Quest. How may this appear? Ans. 1. The Fathers Election is infallible. 2 Tim. 2.19. Rom. 8.30. Matth. 24.24. 2 The sons Redemption shall not be frustrated. Heb. 2.14. Isai. 42.7. Rev. 3.7. Matth. 1.11. Tit. 2.14. 3 The Spirit in application of the benefits of Christs passion, is irresistible, and unchangeable. Ezek. 36.25, 26, 27, 28, 29. isa. 11.6. Luk. 3.5. joh. 16.13. Ephes. 1.13, 14. 4 The Regeneration of Gods people is perpetual. 1 Pet 1, 2, 3. 1 joh. 3.9. Ia. 1.21. Jo. 4.14. 5 The Love of God to his Chosen is unchangeable. joh. 13. 1 jere. 31.3. isai. 54.4, 5, 6, 7, 8.10. 6 Their union, with their Head Christ Jesus is unseparable. joh. 10.28. Matth. 16.18. Hos. 2.19. 7 The kingdom, and dominion of Christ within them is invincible. Lu. 1.33. Lu. 21.22. Dan. 2.44. Psal. 2.9. 8 The power by which they are supported is inconquerable. 1 Pet. 1.4, 5. Psal. 37.24. 1 Cor. 1.8, 9. 9 No temptation shall utterly cast them down. 1 cor. 10.13. Matth. 8.26. 10 The intercession of Christ is uncessant and effectual in the behalf of his chosen people. joh. 17.11. joh. 16.23. Rom. 8.34. Heb. 9.24. 11 The saving gifts and graces of Gods Spirit are without Repentance Rom. 11.29. jerem. 32.40.41. 12 All shall turn for the best to them that love God. Rom. 8.28. Quest. How doth Sanctification, and justification differ? Answ. 1 Justification is a relative change of the believers estate, being reputed righteous by the imputation of the righteousness of Christ. Ro. 4.5. Sanctification is a real change of a man, from the filthiness of sin, into the Image of God. Ephes. 4.22.23, 24. 2 Justification is an absolution of the sinner from the guilt of sin, and death: but Sanctification is an alteration of the qualities from evil to good, the former freeth the believer from the guilt, the later from the filthiness, and spot of sin. Rom. 8.1, 2. 2 cor. 5.17, 18. 3 Justification is the righteousness of Christ imputed to us: Sanctification is a righteousness inherent, and wrought in us. Rom. 10.3, 4 Rom. 8.10. 4 Justification is from the merit of Christ, but Sanctification is from the efficacy of Christs death and Resurrection. Ephes. 1.19. Ephes. 2.1. 5 Justification is before Sanctification in order of nature, but not in time. 2 cor. 7.1. Rom. 8.30. 6 Sanctification is in our apprehension and feeling before Justification, as we see the light before we can see the sun. 1 Cor. 6.11. 7 Justification, consisting in the imputation of Christs righteousness is perfect, the first moment: but Sanctification, being a real change, is wrought by degrees. 2 Cor. 3.18. 8 Justification is required, as the Cause of our salvation; Sanctification, as a condition, or quality, fitting us for heaven; the former is called the cause of reigning, the later, the way to the kingdom. Rom. 6.22, 23. Quest. What is the Rule of our Sanctification? Answ. The whole Word of God, both the Law and the Gospel. Isai. 8.20. Psal. 119.9. 2 Tim. 1.15. job 22.22. jo. 17.17. Quest. Hath not Christ by his obedience delivered us from the Law? Answ. Christ hath delivered all true believers from the rigor, curse, and coaction of the Law, and from seeking Justification by the Law. Gal. 3.10, 11, 12, 13. Rom. 10.4. Jam. 1.25. Jam. 2.12. Quest. If Christ hath thus satisfied the Law, how are believers yet bound to the Law? Answ. believers are tied to the Law, as to a rule of life, a means to inform them in Gods Worship, to bring them to the knowledge, and acknowledgement of sin, to humble them for their sin, to drive them out of themselves unto Christ, to make them vigilant over their hearts, and earnest to increase in grace. Ia. 2.8. Rom. 7.7, 8, 9. Rom. 3.20. 1 jo. 2.3. 2 Epist. joh. vers. 4, 5, 6. Quest. Can you make it further evident, that the Law is a Rule of Life to believers? Answ. 1 It was a Rule of life to Adam before the fall, to believing Iewes and Patriarks after the fall, before the coming of Christ, therefore also to beleaving Christians, after Christs coming. 2 It was a rule of moral obedience unto Christ, therefore also to Christs members. 3 It is most consonant unto the nature of God, as being most holy, wise, just, immutable. 4 It teacheth perfect conformity between God, and the reasonable creature. 5 This, and no other Rule doth fully discover the sin, and crookedness of mens hearts, and lives. 6 This Law was solemnly delivered, and never repealed, for Christ came not to destroy, but to fulfil the Law. 7 Our actions cannot be of faith, if they be not done in obedience to some Word of God, other Word than this we have not. 8 The Law is not significative, but signified by the Ceremonialls, and Judicialls. 9 Christ and his Apostles taught it as a Rule of life. 10 According to this Word shall the last sentence be pronounced, therefore by this must our life be ruled. Quest. What manner obedience do believers yield unto the Law? Ans. A willing, and ready obedience, their hearts being inclined, and disposed thereunto by the work of Gods Spirit. Psal. 110.3. 1 jo. 5.3. Exod. 35.5.21, 22, 29. Quest. How can the Gospel, together with the Law be a rule of our Sanctification, since it is the rule of our justification? Answ. It is the Rule of Justification, as it teacheth, and offereth life and salvation by faith in Christ; but it is a Rule of Sanctification, as it teacheth us to Worship God in Christ, to be thankful unto God for giving Christ, and as it worketh that faith which purifieth the heart, and enableth us to walk in wellpleasing before the Lord joh. 14.1. Joh. 5.23. 1 Thes. 5.18. Acts 15.9. Heb. 11.6. Quest. How doth the Law and the Gospel differ? Answ. 1. The Law sheweth what we ought to be, and what we are bound to do; but the Gospel sheweth us how we may become such as the Law requireth us to bee. mat. 18.28. Luk. 10.28. Mar. 5.36. 2 The Law was engrafted in the mind of man at the Creation, and is yet known in part by corrupted nature, but the Gospel is not at all known by nature, but by revelation from God. Rom. 1.18. Ro. 2.15. Matth. 11.27. joh. 1.18. 3 The Law promiseth life and salvation upon condition of our own proper and perfect obedience: but the Gospel promiseth life upon condition of the righteousness of Christ, applied by Faith. mat. 19.17. Mar. 16.16. 4 The Law must be preached to the obstinate. 1 Tim. 1.9, 10. the Gospel to the penitent, and broken hearted. Mat. 11.28. 5 The Law breedeth terror, the Gospel faith and repentance. 2. Cor. 3.7. Tit. 2.11. 6 The Law threateneth punishment to all that do not perfectly obey the whole Law, the Gospel threateneth destruction to all that do not repent, and believe in Christ. Luk. 13.3.5. Quest. Wherein do the Law and the Gospel agree? Answ. 1 In their Author, one and the same God is Author of both. 2 Pet. 1.20.21. Gen. 3.15. 2 In their end and scope; both the Law and the Gospel require spiritual, and perfect righteousness: the one to be performed by us, the other to be performed of Christ for us, and imputed to us. Ro. 8.3, 4. Quest. Doth not the Gospel abolish the Law, and make it of no use? Answ. No: but doth rather establish the Law: for, 1 The Gospel Preacheth and proposeth Christ, who is the end of the Law for righteousness. Rom. 10.4. 2 The Gospel teacheth us to believe in Christ crucified for our sins, and so all the threatenings of the moral, and shadows of the ceremonial Law are confirmed, 1 Cor. 1.23. 1 Cor. 2.2. 3 The Gospel teacheth us that we are sinners in ourselves, and unjust in the sight of God, and so approveth the sentence of the Law. Rom. 5.6.8, 9, 10, 11. 4 The Gospel teacheth us, that we are not justified before God, but by that perfect righteousness which the Law requireth, even the righteousness of Christ imputed. Phil. 3.9. 5 The Gospel persuadeth, moveth, and guideth men in the whole course of their conversation, as much as in them is, to yield that obedience unto God which the Law requireth. 1 Tim. 1.5. 1 joh. 2.7. 1 joh. 3.22. Quest. is the Gospel under the new, the same with that under the Old Testament? Ans. It is the same in regard of the Substance. Gene. 3.15. Revel. 13.8. Quest. How doth the Gospel under the New, differ from the Gospel under the Old Testament? Answ. 1 In regard of time; under the Old Testament, the Gospel taught us to believe in Christ to come; under the New, it teacheth us to believe in Christ already come. Hebr. 10.1. 1 Joh. 5.20. Joh. 1.14. 2 In regard of clearness: the doctrine of salvation by Christ, is more distinct, and express under the New, than under the Old Testament, now no longer taught by obscure shadows, but by apparent arguments. 2 Cor. 3.18. mat. 11.11. 3 In regard of Christian liberty; the yoke of the ceremonial law, as it was a hand-writing against sinners, a prohibition of things in their own nature indifferent, a veil to the Truth, a burden and servitude to the observers of it, is now removed under the New Testament. Col. 2.14.17. Gal. 5.1. 4 In regard of the large effusion of the Spirit, the application of the Spirit is more effectual; and the gifts of the Spirit are more perfect under the New, than they were ordinarily under the old Testament. 2 Cor. 3.6.18. joh. 17.39 5 In regard of the Extent of it, under the Old Testament it was confined to one people, onely now it is extended to all nations. Matth. 28.19, 20. 6 In regard of duration, the Administration of life under the New Testament, is perfect, and therefore shall continue such till the Consummation of the Church. 2 Cor. 3.11. Ephes. 4.13. Quest. Having showed me how the Gospel, with the Law, is a Rule of Sanctification: tell me now, what Law it is that together with the Gospel, is a Rule of our Sanctification? Ans. Neither the ceremonial, nor judicial, but the moral Law. Deut. 4.13. Deut. 10.4. Prov. 3.1. Job 22.22. Quest. How doth the moral Law direct us in the duties of Sanctification. Answ. By teaching us piety towards God, and humanity towards man? Mat. 22.37.39. Quest. How doth the moral Law teach us piety towards God. Answ. 1 By informing us in the natural worship of God; set down in the first precept, teaching us, That God is to be believed, hoped in, loved, invocated, heard, and obeied in all things. 2 By informing us in the appointed Worship of God, set down in the second Precept, teaching us to manifest and show forth Faith, Hope, and Love to God ward, by Worshipping him wholly, and onely according to his revealed Will, without addition or diminution. 3 By informing us in the manner of his Worship set down in the third Precept, teaching us, to use every thing belonging to the Word of God, in such sort, as is most agreeable to the Divine majesty. By informing us in the dedication of a set and solemn time, one day in seven, to holy and religious exercises, set down in the fourth precept. Quest. How doth the moral Law teach us humanity to our neighbour? Answ. 1. By informing us in the mutual dueties of Superiors, and inferiors, in the fift precept. 2 By showing us that we ought not to hurt our neighbour in dead, in word, or thought. First not in dead, in respect of his person, in the sixth Precept, In respect of his and our own Person, in the seventh precept, In respect of his goods, in the eight precept. Secondly, Not in word, in respect of his good name, in the Ninth Precept. Thirdly, Not in thought, neither conceiving, nor willing any thing repugnant to our neighbours good, in the Tenth Precept. Quest. What means must we use to get this Sanctification wrought and increased? Answ. 1 Conscionable, and frequent attendance upon Gods Word preached. Acts 8.7. 2 Cor. 10.5. joh. 17.17. 2 reverend, circumspectly, and careful reading of Gods Word, and other holy books. Deuter. 17.19. Acts 8.28. 3 Holy and serious meditation upon the Nature, Attributes, Word, and Works of God. Ios. 1.8. Psalm. 1.1, 2. 4 careful preparation unto, and frequent use of the Sacraments. 1 cor. 11.28. 5 Holy Communion, and conference with Gods people. Hebr. 10.24, 25. 6 Understanding holy, humble, hearty, fervent, faithful and constant prayer. 1 cor. 14.15. Eccles. 5.1. Jam. 5.16. Psalm. 145.18, 19. Iam. 1.6. 1 Thes. 5.17. Quest. What directions must we observe for the ordering of ourselves in a sanctified manner? Answ. The directions which in this behalf must be used, respect. 1 God. 2 Man. Quest. What are the directions which have respect unto God? Answ. 1 You must know and love God for himself, and above all things. Iere. 9.23. Mark 12.33. Psal. 73.25. 2 You must esteem and delight in Christ Jesus above all creatures. Phil. 3.8. Cant. 5.10. 3 You must delight, and walk in all the ways of God. Eccles. 12.13. Deut. 4.5. 4 You must obey and please God whosoever be offended. Acts. 4.19. Prov. 16.7. 5 You must seek his honor more than your spiritual or bodily welfare. Rom. 9.2, 3. Luk. 14.26. 6 You must desire and seek spiritual things, the pardon of sin, the sense of Gods love, the grace of the Spirit, before all things in the world. Psalm. 4.6. Psal. 51.8. Mat. 6.33. Quest. What are the directions which respect man? Answ. They respect either man himself, or others. Quest. What are they which respect a man himself? Answ. They respect either the inward, or the outward man. Quest. What are they which respect the inward man? Answ. They respect. 1 The mind. 2 The thoughts. 3 The will. 4 The affections. 5 The Conscience. Quest. What are the directions which respect the mind? Answ. 1 It must be furnished with necessary, profitable, holy, and humble knowledge. 1 cor. 2.2. Phil. 1.9. Jam. 3 17. 2 It must be adorned with heavenliness and holinesse. Phil 3.19, 20. Ephes. 4.23. 3 With humility, sobriety, shamefastness, and unity. 1 Pet. 3.4, 5. col. 3.12. Quest. What directions respect the thoughts? Answ. 1. You must watch over them with all diligence. Prov. 4.23. 2 You must bestow you first thoughts about God, and the things of God. Psal. 5.3. 3 evil thoughts must be called into question, and resisted in the first original. Iere. 4.14. 4 Conscience must be made of the least evil thought, and the heart humbled for it. Prov. 24.9. 5 No more thoughts must be bestowed about the world than are necessary. Matth. 6.31. 6 Your thoughts of God must be holy and reverend, of yourself humble, and of sin with detestation. Psalm. 5.7. Psalm. 77.3. Phil. 2.3. Psalm. 119.113. Quest. What are the directions which respect the Will? Answ. 1 The Will must not be lead by affection, but by a judgement rightly informed out of Gods Word. Prov. 4.27. Psal. 119 33, 34. 2 The Will must choose the best things. 1 cor. 12.31. 3 Gods Will revealing what we shall know, determining what we shall be, prescribing what wee shall do, and disposing what shall befall us, must be the rule wherein our wills rest, and whereunto they must submit, as to a rule most holy, wise, just, and good. Mat. 6.10. Matth. 26.39. 1 Sam. 3.18. Quest. What are the Directions which respect the conscience? Answ. 1 We must be careful to keep ourselves from an impure, blind, doubtful, superstitious, seared, and accusing conscience. Tit. 1.15. Ephes. 4.19. Rom. 14.5.23. col. 2.21. 1 Tim. 4.2. Tit 3.11. 2 Wee must get, and carefully keep a good, pure and peaceable Conscience in all things. Acts 23.1. Acts 24.16. Heb. 9.14. 2 Tim. 1.3. Quest. What are the directions which respect the affections? Ans. 1 Our affections must be fastened on God with most joy, and delight. Psal. 37.4. 2 We must affect all things in and for God, nothing like, above, or against God. 1 cor. 7.29, 30, 31.39. Mat. 10.37. 3 We must labour to taste and be affencted with the sweetness and goodness of God, in all his creatures, and actions. Psal. 34.8. 4 Our affections must be more frequently, strongly, and delightfully fastened on things heavenly than earthly. col. 3.1, 2. 5 We must have a fellow-feeling of the miseries of our afflicted brethren, Heb. 13.2. 6 We must be more affencted with the vileness of sin, than with the punishment belonging to the same. Rom. 7.24. Quest. What rules do respect the outward man? Answ. They respect, 1 Our calling, 2 Our estates, 3 Our speeches. 4 Our actions. Quest. What Rules respect our callings? Answ. 1 Every man must have a particular calling. Gen. 2.15. Gen. 3.19. 2 Every man must make choice of such a calling, as is lawful, honest, most convenient, and best for the glory of God, his own and others good. Ephes. 4.28. 3 Every man must labour to see that God doth set him in that calling, which he doth undertake. 1 cor. 7.17. 4 He must exercise himself in his calling religiously, faithfully, constionably, diligently, and constantly. col. 3.22. 5 The works of every mans calling must be profitable, and necessary, and properly appertaining to his own, and not to another mans calling. 1 Thes. 4.11. 6 The works of our particular must receive direction from our general calling, and also give place thereunto. col. 3.17. Quest. What Rules respect our estate? Answ. 1 We must be contented in every estate, and account that estate best wherein God doth set us. Phil. 4.11. job 2.10. 2 Prepare for afflictions before they come, and remember that Gods favour may be enjoyed in trouble, as well as in peace. joh. 6.1, 2. Isa. 49.14, 15. Heb. 12.7. 3 Seek not so much to be delivered out of affliction, as for patience to bear it, grace to make a good use of it, and to draw the nearer to God by it. Isai. 28.16. Psal. 40.1. Mica. 7.9. 4 Make not affliction the more burdensome by impatience, but let the greatness of the affliction breed the more diligent search, and through hatred of the sin which did procure it. Exod. 14.11. Lamen. 3.39, 40. 5 In prosperity be not lifted up, but think of a change, be jealous of thyself, desire God to keep thee, be mindful of the affliction of thy Brethren, and rejoice not in thine own peace, while the Church of God is in trouble. Deut. 8.14. Rom. 12.15. Amos 6.1, 2, 3.6. Quest. What Rules respect our speeches? Answ. 1 They must be gracious, sincere, wise, of the best things, moderate, gentle, seasonable, profitable, and tending to edification. 1 Pet. 4.11. Ephes. 4.29. Psal. 15.2. Col. 4.6. Psal. 37.30, 31. Deut. 32.2. Ephes. 4, 31. Prov. 15.25. psal. 37.29. 2 Our speech of God, his Word and Works, must be with humility, reverence, fear, and gravity. Lev. 19.12. 3 Our speech of others must be good, and charitable, never speaking the evil we know by them, but with grief, and that upon a necessary occasion, and lawful calling. Tit. 3.2. 4 Our speech to our superiors must be reverend, to our equals, and inferiors, plain, mild, loving, and faithful. Lev. 19.17. 5 Our speech of ourselves must be modest, and humble, without any show of ostentation. Prov. 27.2. 6 Our speech of things heavenly, must be with more frequency, earnestness, circumspection, comfort and delight, than of things earthly. Deut. 6.6. Quest. What Rules respect our Actions? Answ. 1 The matter, circumstances, and ends of our actions must be good. Phil. 4.8. 2 We must do all things in a humble, sincere, and loving manner, according to our ability. 1 cor. 16.14. 2 Cor. 9 5, 6, 7. 2 Cor. 1.13. 3 We must do good to the soul and body, but to the souls of men chiefly. Matth. 6.33. Lev. 19.17. Iam. 5.19, 20. Luk. 22.32. Quest. What Directions respect our eating and drinking? Answ. 1 Our meate, and drink must be sanctified by the Word of God, and Prayer. 1 Tim. 4.4, 5. 2 We must feed upon that which is our own, and that according to our necessity, and with moderate delight. Ephes. 4.28. Pro. 5.15. 3 We must be affencted with Gods goodness in the creatures, our mouths must speak of his bounty, and loving kindness, and not be unmindful of the wants of others. Deut. 12.7. Neh. 8.10. Quest. What Rules respect our Recreations? Answ. 1 The matter of our Recreation must be neither of things holy, nor of things profane, but of things indifferent, free from scandal, and ill report. Ephes. 5.35. 2 The persons using them must be sanctified, weary with lawful labour, and must pray for a blessing upon their Recreations. 1 Tim. 4.4, 5. Tit. 1.15. 3 They must be used moderately, watchfully, wisely, Christianly, and seasonably. Phil. 4.5. Eccles. 3.1, 2, 3, 4. 4 You must use them to Gods glory, the refreshing of your weary body, preservation of health, the making of you more fit for your calling, and the dueties of Sanctification: 1 Cor. 10.30, 31. Quest. What directions respect our apparel? Answ. 1 The matter of our apparel, must not be overcostly, but according to our ability, calling, condition of life, and example of the graver sort of people. 1 Pet. 4.5. Gen. 3.21. 2 The fashion of our apparel must not be strange, garish, wanton, but according to the custom of the country, and more sober sort of people, amongst whom we live. Zeph. 1.8. Tit. 2.3. Rom. 12.2. 3 We must wear such apparel as may serve for health, decency, and distinction. Gen. 3.21. Hag. 1.6. Deut. 22.5. 4 The putting on of our apparel must mind us of the loss of our Innocency, of the putting on of Christ, and of the girding up of the loins of our mind: and the putting off of our apparel, must mind us of putting off our sins by regeneration, and of putting off our flesh by a bodily dissolution. Rom. 13.14. Col. 3.12. 1 Pet. ●. ●3. Ephes. 4.23, 24. 2 Pet. 1.14. Quest. What Rules must we observe in company? Ans. 1 We must endeavour so much as may be to have peace with all men, but familiarity onely with good men. Ro. 12.18. Heb. 12.14. Psal. 101.4. 2 We must labour to do good, or receive good in every company. Heb. 10.24. 3 Our conversation must be such among all men, as doth beseem the Gospel. Phil. 1.27. 4 We must show forth both piety and humanity in our company. 1 Pet. 2.17. 1 Pet. 3.8. 5 All needless Society with wicked men must be avoided. Ephes. 5.7, 8. 6 When we have necessary occasion of conversing with carnal people, we must walk blamelessly, and wisely towards them. Mat. 10.16. 7 We must love all good men with a christian, and singular affection, wee must maintain a holy fellowship with them, wee must walk in all faithfulness towards them, and bear their burden in the time of affliction, subjecting ourselves to their godly counsel, following their gracious example, reverencing the strong in grace, and giving no offence to the weak. Psal. 16.3. Gal. 6.1. Rom. 14.1. Heb. 10.24, 25. Psa. 141.5. 1 Cor. 11.1. 8 We must love our choice and godly friend dearly, freely, sincerely, and constantly, give him wholesome and hearty counsel, communicate our secrets to him, and extend our love to his posterity. 2 Sam. 1.26. 2 Sam. 9.1. Quest. What motives are there inducing us thus to order our conversation? Ans. 1 The strict charge which God hath given us. 2 Pet. 1.10. 2 The end of our Redemption. Tit. 2.14. 3 The honor of our calling. 2. Thes. 1.11. 4 The beautifying of the Gospel. Phil. 1.27. 5 The giving of good example to other people. Matth. 5.16. 6 The singular privileges attending true Sanctification. 1 Tim. 4.8. CHAP. VII. Question. WHat is the sixth step by which God doth proceed in the work of mans Salvation? Answ. Glorification. Rom. 8.30. 1 Thes. 2.12. Quest. How may we be assured that there is a future estate of glory and happiness reserved for the righteous? Answ. 1 By the clear and plentiful testimony of the Scriptures. job. 19.25, 26. Dan. 12.2. Isai. 25, 6, 7, 8. Isa. 57.2. jo. 5.29. mat. 13.43. Mat. 19.29, &c. 2 By the perfection of Gods goodness, he is the chiefest good, and will most perfectly communicate himself unto his beloved. Psrl. 36.9. 3 By the equity of his Justice, rendering to all men according to their doings. 2 Thes. 1.7. 2 Tim. 4.8. 4 By the Truth of Gods promise. Tit. 1.2. 1 joh. 2.25. 5 By the power of God to accomplish his purpose. joh. 10.28, 29. 6 By the dignity of Christs merit. Heb. 7.25. 7 By the efficacy of Christs Intercession. Rom. 8.34. 8 By the terms of Relation between Christ, and his people; he is an eternal King, Husband, and Saviour, and therefore must-needs have Subjects, a Spouse, and a saved people, which shall live in glory for ever. Quest. What is glorification? Answ. It is the blessed estate of Gods people after this life, wherein they shall have freedom from all sin, and misery, and the full perfection of grace and glory, both in soul and body. Ephes. 5.27. Isa. 60.21. 1 Cor. 13.10, 11. 12. Rev. 21.4, 5. Quest. Who is the Author or cause efficient of this Glorification, and blessed estate of Gods people? Ans. God of his free grace, and favour in Christ. Rom. 6.23. and that, 1 In regard of Preparation. Mat. 25.34. Isa. 64, 4. 2 In regard of Stipulation, God hath promised life eternal. 1 jo. 2.25. 3 In regard of Acquisition. God gave Christ to purchase this glory for us. joh. 3.16. 4 In regard of Application. God 1 by the ministry of his Word and Spirit, revealing this life eternal to them, working faith in their hearts to believe it, and sealing up the same unto their souls. Rom. 8.16, 17. Ephes. 1.14. Ephes. 4.30. Secondly, at the day of their death by the ministry of his Angels carrying them into Abrahams bosom. Luk. 16.22. Thirdly, in the last day by Jesus Christ, raising their bodies again to a glorious estate. Joh. 5.29. 5 In regard of Conservation, and continuance, God will for ever confirm them in that glorious condition. Rev. 3.12. Luk 20.36. Quest. What doth the name of that blessedness or glorification which the people of God shall have in the next life comprise under it? Answ. 1 A complete presence of all good. 2 An utter absence of all evil. 3 An unchangeableness of felicity. 4 A perfect fruition of God himself, who is the blessedness of his servants. 5 A most clear knowledge of their glory in regard of the understanding, fervent love to it in regard of the will, a comfortable, and abundant acquiescence in it in regard of the affection of the heart, from whence ariseth joy unspeakable, and glorious in the Souls of Gods servants. Quest. In what order, or by what degrees doth God bring men to this glorious estate after death? Answ. 1 The soul of every true believer is immediately after death, by the power of God, and ministry of the holy Angels, conveyed into the estate of happiness. Lu. 16.26. Lu. 23.43. 2 The Bodies return to the dust, as to a place of rest from all evils. Isa. 57.2. Rev. 14.13. 3 The bodies of all men shall be raised again at the last day, and their souls shall enter into them again, and then body and soul of all true believers shall be jointly, fully, and everlastingly glorified, and the soul and body of the wicked, jointly and endlessly tormented. job 19.25, 26. Isa. 26.19. 1 Cor 15.16. Rev. 20.12, 13. jo. 6 44. 4 There shall be at the last day a general, strict, and righteous judgement, wherein Christ shall be the Judge; the secrets of mens natures, and works shall be opened, and all men shall be judged according to their works. 2 Pet. 3.10. Dan. 7.9, 10. Rom. 14.10. Quest. Wherein doth the state of Gods people in glory differ from their estate in Sanctity here on earth? Answ. 1 In this life Gods people have need of the external ministry of the Word, and internal Ministration of the Spirit, which in the next life they shall not need. 1 Cor. 13.8, 9, 10. 2 In this life good and bad are mixed, in the next life Gods children shall have absolute freedom from all sinful people. Matth. 13.30. Matth. 25.33.34. 3 In this life Gods children are troubled with inward corruptions, many failings, and temptations, and persecutions, but in the next life they shall have a plenary discharge from all evils. 1 joh. 1.8. Eph. 5.26, 27. 4 Here Gods people see, and know God obscurely, by means, there they shall see him face to face, know him fully, and have the immediate fruition of his presence. 1 Cor. 13.12. Quest. show me briefly wherein standeth the excellency of the glorious estate of Gods faithful people? Ans. In a full freedom from all evil, and in a perfect fruition of all good. Psal. 16.11. Rev. 21.4, 5. Quest. What are the evils from which they are freed? Ans. From all bodily labours, diseases, and afflictions, from all natural infirmities, from all sin, and inclination to sin, from all bodily and spiritual adversaries, from all shane, and sorrow for their own, or the sins of others, from the displeasure of God, and from the trouble of an evil Conscience. Rev. 14.13. Heb. 4.9, 10. 2 Thes. 1.7. Rev. 21.4. Eph. 5.26. Rev. 20.10. Rev. 22.3. Quest. Wherein standeth that good whereof they shall have the full fruition? Answ. 1 Their knowledge of God, inclination to good, Love to God, and his people, shall be in every degree complete; the whole man shall be perfectly conformable to the Will of God, and Gods Image, both in soul and body shall be perfectly restored. 1 Cor. 13.8.10.11. Ro. 6.13.19. Rev. 3.4.5. 1 Joh. 3.2. 2 They shall have the full and blessed vision of God for ever, and everlasting communion with Christ Jesus, the glorious Angels, and all Saints in the highest heavens. Rev. 22.3, 4, 5. Quest. What Inducements are there to move us to labour for this glorious Estate? Answ. 1 The vanity and emptiness of the Creature; it cannot content us, make us happy, comfort us in heaviness, deliver us out of dangers, nor perpetuate our earthly estate, and condition; no, not when wee have it in the greatest abundance. Eccl. 9.2.11. Eccl. 5.10, 11. job. 20.22. 2 The sweet and comfortable fullness which for the present we shall find in God, even when wee are in the lowest estate. Psal. 36.8. Gen. 17.1. Gene. 15.1, 2. jo. 1.16. Psal. 62.9, 10, 11, 12. Psal. 4.6. 3 The great things which Christ hath done to make us partakers of that glorious estate. Tit. 2.12, 13, 14. Ephes. 4.11, 12, 13, 14. 4 The insufferable and endless shane, sorrow, and torments we shall draw upon ourselves, if we prepare not for that estate. Mat. 25.41. Isa. 30.33. 5 The glorious condition, and everlasting continuance of this blessed estate in heaven. Rev. 21.2.23. 1 Pet. 1.4. Laus Deo in aeternûm. FINIS.