PLAIN TRUTHS OF DIVIVINITY.  
Collected out of the sacred Scriptures, & set forth by way of question and answer the best way conceived for the information of the judgement of the Christian Reader.  
Wherein is set forth many excellent things which are not commonly publshed. Especially the destruction of Antichrist, and the year when it shall be: The coming of the Lord Christ to judgement, and his reigning with his Saints for ever upon this earth, at the restitution of all things.  
Collossians 3.16. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another, etc.  
2 Timothy 2.27. Consider what I say. and the Lord give thee understanding in all things.  
LONDON Printed for J. K. And are to be sold at the sign of the white horse in Paul's Churchyard 1647.   

To the Right Honourable and Religious Lady, Margaret Countess of Carlisle the Author presenteth the ensuing book wishing grace and peace to be multiplied.  
Right Honourable,  
I Have presumed upon your favour to present this my poor labour to your Honour not doubting of your favourable acceptance from him, who desireth your further increase in the knowledge of the truth of God, you have given many testimonies of your love to Religion by your careful walking in piety to the good example of others, which hath rejoiced my heart, to hear from time to time, I desire nothing more than that you might go on till you receive the crown of glory. It is not in vain to know God and the Lord jesus Christ, but life eternal, I have endeavoured in this ensuing book to set forth some grounds and principles of the knowledge of God and of Christ by way of Question and answer, the easiest way I conceive) to get knowledge, and it may be your Honour may find it more plain and easy to be understood then other Catechisms, I have laboured herein to set forth, how and after what manner a poor sinner comes to be justified, and how he walks being justified, both towards God and man, as also something concerning the destruction of antichrist, and the felicity of the Church for ever, with other things necessary to be known of us in these times.  
It may be you may find in the reading of it some things you never heard of before, both profitable and comfortable if your Honour shall be pleased to accept of this my poor labour, I shall take it as a great favour, and shall be obliged to remain  
Your humble Servant John Alcock.   

To the truly Religious Christian that desires to know and yield obedience to the will of God revealed in his word, Grace and peace be multiplied.  
CHristian Reader I hear present thee with a few points of Divinity by way of Question and Answer, The way which I have conceived to be best for the Information of judgement, The substance of it I writ about twenty six years past. The reasons that moved me thereunto were. First to keep in my own memory the truths God had taught me. Secondly that having gathered these heads of divinity into order, I might the better teach my family, to whom I could explain any thing therein contained, (knowing my own sense and meaning which I could not so well do out of other men's works I have since the first writing of it perused it and somewhat enlarged it, (and would have done more if weakness of body had not seized upon me,) After which some judicious friends of mine having read and considered it thought it worth their labour to write it out, as also worthy the publishing in Print, and advised me thereunto perceiving some things in it necessary to be made public, which are not in other men's works, nor commonly taught I have therefore yielded to their desires herein. And also it was my own desire to do good to the Church and people of God, whose servant I am and the least of them, who am not worthy to be accounted one of them, yet do I make bold to present this small talon of mine unto thee entreating the to read and consider it, if it be the truth (as I know it is) receive it with meekness of heart.  
It may be thou mayest find some truths in it which thou hast not formerly taken notice, of which may be profitable unto thee, And some Scriptures cleared from the false expositions of some men which it may be they have led the into some error & hindered from some comfort, that otherwise thou mightest have had in the knowledge of the truth I hope thou wilt not repent thy cost nor thy labour in reading it.  
I wish unto thee Christian Reader all happiness, and thy profit by this poor work of mine, If thou findest good by it Bless God and remember me in thy prayers, who will remember thee daily and desires thine and his own furtherance in the truth, and remains.  
Thine in the Lord Jesus Christ. I.A.   

A Catechism, or certain Principles of Christian Religion.  
Question.  
SEeing that Knowledge is so much desired and sought after of most men, what knowledge is most necessary, and chief to be desired of all men?  
Answer. The true knowledge of the true God Jeremy 9.24.  
Quest. Wherefore is the knowledge of God most necessary and chief to be desired?  
Answ. Because it is eternal life to know God aright Jo. 17.3.  
Qu. But God is invisible how can we therefore come to know him?  
Ans. Although he be invisible yet he hath revealed, and manifested himself, and therefore it is possible to come to the true knowledge of him.  
Qu. Where hath he revealed, and manifested himself?  
Answ. In his works, and in his word, Psalms 19  
Qu. Is it possible to know God by his Works?  
Ans. Yes, it is possible his eternal power and Godhead are seen from the Creation of the world, and his goodness and mercy in the wise governing, and upholding all things in the same, Rom. 1.20.  
Quest. Which is that Word of God, wherein he hath manifested himself?  
Answ. The old and New Testament.  
Quest. Hath he therein more clearly manifested himself then in his works?  
Answ. Yea, for besides the works of Creation, which we spoke of before, there are also, many great works of God, recorded in his Word and many names he hath taken unto himself; And many Attributes, which show and declare unto us what he is; as also the Testimonies of the Saints and holy men of God, which have had experience of his Attributes, and have given unto him many excellent Titles declaring what he is and Christ Jesus himself, hath evidently declared him unto us, all which is to be seen, and learned in the Scriptures, Gen. 17.1. Exod. 12.41, 42. Chap. 13.21, 22, 23. Exod. 34.6.7.  
Quest. But God is infinite and we are but finite creatures how can we therefore come to know him who is of such an excellent glory, dwelling in that light unapprochable?  
Ans. We may notwithstanding attain to so much knowledge of him even in this life as will make us happy, and we must content ourselves to know him, as he hath revealed himself in his works and Word and not curiously, besides the Word to seek to find him out, and to comprehend him, who is incomprehensible, Exod. 33.20.  
Quest. What is God?  
Answ. God is a Spirit, most wise most holy, Eternal, infinite etc. one in Essence or being but yet made known unto us to be three, namely. Father, Son, and holy Ghost, John 4.24. 1 Sam. 2.23. jer. 23.24. Esay 41.4. & 44.6. Revel. 1.17. Levit. 11.44. 1 Io. 5.7.  
Quest. Who made the World?  
Answ. This only true God whom we have according to our measure set forth, Genesis 1.  
Quest. Whereof did he make it?  
Answ. Of nothing.  
Quest. How is it possible to make something of nothing?  
Answ. With man it is impossible, but with God it was possible.  
Quest. What means did he use to make it?  
Answ. No other means, but his almighty Power and Word. Gen. 1.  
Quest. Did he, when he had created all things, leave them to themselves?  
Ans. No, for then all things must needs have perished but as he did Create all things by his Word so he doth continue to preserve, and uphold all things by the same word, Acts 17.28.  
Qu. Who made man?  
Ans. God made him. Gen. 1.27.  
Quest. Whereof did he make him?  
Answ. Of the dust of the earth, Gen. 2.7.  
Quest. What manner of creature, did God make man at the first.  
Ans. A most glorious and excellent Creature.  
Quest. Wherein consisted his glory and excellency?  
Ans. Chief, in that he was made in the Image of God.  
Qu. Wherein did that Image of God, wherewith Adam was endued chief consist?  
Ans. In excellency of wisdom, knowledge, purity, and righteousness, and freedom of will, and the like Graces that God bestowed on him, Gen. 1.27. Chap. 2.20. Eccles. 7.29.  
Qu. Was he not Created glorious in regard of his Body?  
Answ. Yes, fare more excellent, than any other creature whatsoever Gen. 1.  
Qu. What are those Attributes that God did chief manifest in the Creation of man?  
Answ. His wisdom, and his love in making him the excellentest of all his workmanship, and in making him Lord over all the Creatures, creating them all for his use and benefit. Gen. 1.28.  
Qu. Did man continue in this excellent and happy estate?  
Ans. No, he fell from it, Gen. 3.6, 7.  
Qu. Then it seems Man was made mutable and subject to change.  
Ans. Yea, for to be immutable is proper only to God and it was not the purpose of God to make him a God, but he endued him with freedom of will to the end he might make choice either of Good or evil.  
Qu. What was the cause of Adam's Fall from that estate?  
Ans. His disobeying the Commandment of God in eating the forbidden fruit, Gen. 3.6, 7.  
Quest. How came he to disobey the Commandment of God.  
Answ. By harkening to the temptation of Satan, and yielding thereunto, Gen. 3.  
Quest. Are all the Posterity of Adam guilty of that sin.  
Ans. Yea, because all men proceed out of his loins, and therefore he having fallen, all his posterity are fallen with him, and are polluted with corruption of nature as well as he, and so liable to the same Curse threatened against Adam.  
Quest. Did God purpose to destroy all the posterity of Adam for that sin.  
Answ. No, God had a purpose from all eternity to save some, and to make them objects of his mercy; And to leave others to make them objects of his Justice, Ephes. 1.5. Rom. 9.22.23.  
Quest. Wherefore did God purpose to save some, and to leave others?  
Answ. It was his good will and pleasure, that so he might manifest both his Attributes of Justice and mercy and so might be glorified in the salvation of some, and in the rejection of others, 1 Thess. 5.9.  
Quest. Was there no power or ability left in Adam to free himself from that miserable estate whereinto he was fallen.  
Answ. There was no power at all left in him, But God in his infinite wisdom and love did find out a way, for to redeem sinful man out of that lost condition whereinto he was fallen by breaking the Commandment of God.  
Quest. What way or means is that which God did fore-ordain to work the redemption of sinful Man?  
Answ. The way and means appointed of God from all eternity was only by jesus Christ.  
Quest. What is jesus Christ?  
Answ. The eternal and only begotten Son of God, the second in the undevided Trinity, Luke. 3.22. Esay 9 Heb. 1.2.3.6. 1 john. 5.7.  
Quest. Then he was true God?  
Answ. Yea, he was indeed very God equal with the Father and Holy Ghost, john. 1.1.  
Quest. Was he not true man also?  
Answ. Yes, he was true man also, for he took upon him the seed of Abraham, john. 1.14. Heb. 2, 16.  
Quest. Wherefore was it needful that our Redeemer should be God?  
Answ. It was needful he should be God for these causes.  
First that the satisfaction that was to be made might be of an Infinite value, because an Infinite justice was offended.  
Secondly because he might be able to bear that wrath of God due for our sins, and to over come him by suffering death that had the power of death that is the Devil. Heb. 2.14.  
Quest. Wherefore was it needful that he should be Man?  
Answ. It was needful he should be man for these causes.  
First it was man that had sinned therefore that nature that had sinned was to make satisfaction.  
Secondly if he had not been Man also, he could not have suffered death, for the Godhead cannot possibly suffer, and therefore we say, that he was Man that he might suffer, and he was also God that he might overcome by suffering, Heb. 2.14.  
Quest. Seeing there was such a necessity that he should be Man also as well as God, tell me by what means he came to be Man?  
Answ. He was conceived by the Holy Ghost after a most wonderful and unspeakable manner and borne of a Virgin, Luke 1.35. Chap. 2.7.  
Quest. Was he conceived and Borne as soon as Man had sinned?  
Answ. No, but a long time after Man had sinned, even in that fullness of time that God had appointed, Gal. 4.4.  
Quest. How then were the Patriarches and forefather's saved that lived before the coming of Christ in the flesh?  
Answ. They were all saved by the sacrifice of Christ that was to be offered up and to be performed.  
Quest. How could that be?  
Answ. Because God did accept of it, as if it had been performed, for he was that lamb slain from the beginning of the World, Revel. 13.8.  
Quest. How could he be slain seeing at that time he had not assumed Man's nature unto himself?  
Answ. He is said to be slain in this respect, namely in the decree and Council of God, who had decreed this way, and means to work Man's Redemption, and Christ jesus the second in Trinity did willingly undertake, this great work, and thus it was done with God, and his justice satisfied, for he calleth things that are not, as if they were, he so accounteth of things not actually done, as done, being decreed by him, Rom. 4.17.  
Quest. What great works did he after he had taken upon him the nature of Man?  
Answ. He wrought many great miracles he raised the dead. he made the blind to see, and healed all manner of diseases and taught his Father's will Io. 11.43.44. Luk. 7.15.22.4.40.43.  
Quest. Was he obedient to the Law?  
Answ. Yea he was obedient to the Law and did fulfil it in every thing that it did command or require, Psal. 40.7.8.  
Quest. Then he was free from Sin?  
Answ. He did no Sin at all, neither did guile ever enter into his mouth, 1 Peter 2.22.  
Quest. Was it needful he should fulfil the Law?  
Answ. Yes it was needful for us to have such a Redeemer as could perfectly fulfil the Law for us, who could not fulfil it ourselves, Gal. 4.4.5. Rom. 8.3.4.  
Quest. Then it seems that whatsoever Christ did do, was only for the Redemption of the elect?  
Answ. It was all for that end, for he was wholly given unto them as the Prophet Esay saith, unto us a Child is borne Esay. 9  
Quest. Was he not bound to fulfil the Law for himself?  
Answ. The Law was never given unto him for to be a rule for him to walk by, for he needed no Law, being free from that Corruption of nature which all the posterity of Adam were tainted and corrupted with.  
Quest. If he were free from Corruption of nature, wherefore was he Circumcised and Baptised?  
Answ. It was as himself saith to fulfil all righteousness, not that there was any need in him of the Circumcision of the heart, or that washing and purging signified by Baptism; but he submitted himself to both to testify his willing subjection to the will of his Father, and to teach us by his example to do the like Matthew 3.15.  
Quest. Had he any enemies, seeing he was so innocent and blameless?  
Answ. Yes he had many enemies, especially the Scribes and Pharises that did persecute him, and when that time appointed was come, did also put him to death, Math. 26.3.4. and Chap. 27.  
Quest. Wherefore did they put him to death?  
Answ. There was no cause worthy of death found in him as the Judge himself confessed, Luke 23.14. Math. 27.24.  
Quest. Can he not have delivered himself, nut of their hands, (seeing he was God) and have confounded his enemies by his Almighty power and word?  
Answ. Yea he could have prayed to his Father (as himself saith) and he would have sent him more than twelve legions of Angels, but he came into the World to suffer and to fulfil, whatsoever was prefigured and prophened of him to be fulfiled by him, Math. 26.53.56.  
Quest. Was his death prefigured and foretold in the Scriptures?  
Answ. His death was shadowed out in the Paschall Lamb, and in the sacrifices, and foretold by the Prophets in very many places of Scripture and that in express words Esay 53. Daniel 9.26.  
Quest. Was it needful that he should die for to work the Redemption of Man?  
Answ. It was needful, for he did nothing in vain, and God would have him to suffer death to the end he might deliver man from death, And the Justice of God, did require that he should die, for God had threatened death to Adam upon his disobedience, and therefore that God might manifest himself to be just, and his wrath also against out sins, and yet also notwithstanding manifest his mercy towards Man, God would have him to suffer a shameful death, who was able (being God and Man) to bear that wrath, and satisfy the Justice of God which could not have been satisfied unless that Christ himself had suffered death.  
Quest. What death did he suffer?  
Answ. They did Crucify him upon the Cross between two thiefs. Matthew 27.38.  
Quest, Wherefore did they put him to so shameful a death?  
Answ. It was so foretold that he should be so used by the jews, for as his death was foretold, so also the manner of his death, Esay 55.12.  
Quest. Then the Jews did nothing unto him, but that which God had decreed and foretold by his Prophets?  
Answ. Not any thing at all, Io. 19.24.28.29. Acts 2.23.  
Quest. Wherefore did God decree to put his only Son to so shameful death?  
Answ. To the end he might manifest his justice and wrath against Sin, and also his exceeding great mercy and love unto Man, that notwithstanding his justice did require, so shameful a death, yet did not spare his own Son but gave him to death to redeem us, Io. 3.16.  
Qu. Seeing that all men as well the Elect as others, are all borne the children of wrath, and are liable to the curse of God, and Condemnation, what is required of us, that we may be free from that Curse and escape condemnation?  
Answ. A new Birth is required, as our Saviour himself witnesseth, except a man be borne again, he cannot enter into the kingdom of heaven, Io. 3.3.5.  
Quest. What is that new Birth.  
Answ. It is a most admirable and also a supernatural work of God's Spirit, whereby all the Elect are made (of children of wrath) heirs of eternal Glory and happiness, Titus 3.5, 6, 7.  
Quest. Whereof doth this new birth consist?  
Answ. It consisteth of these two parts, namely of Water, and the Spirit that is to say, of Repentance and of Faith, Jo. 3.5. Titus 3.5.  
Quest. After what manner doth the Lord effect, and work this new Birth in the Elect?  
Answ. The Lord doth it two ways, inwardly by his Spirit, and outwardly by his Word, opening their eyes to see their misery, and that there is mercy to be had if they do repent, Ezek. 36.24, 25, 26, 27. Ephes. 1.13. Rom. 10.14. Ezek. 33.11.  
Quest. What is the first peculiar work that God vouchsafeth to work in them whom he hath apurpose to save?  
Answ. The first special and peculiar work that God doth work in them is Repentance.  
Quest. But is not Faith wrought in men before Repentance and doth not repentance proceed from Faith as a fruit and effect thereof?  
Answ. No, not that faith which is peculiar to the Elect, that is never wrought before Repentance, neither is Repentance a fruit or effect of Faith, but an effect of the Spirit as faith also is.  
Quest. What Faith is that which is wrought in men before Repentance.  
Answ. It is commonly called historical faith, the object whereof is the truth of the Scriptures, and it is a gift of the Spirit, common as well to those that shall perish, as to those that shall be saved.  
Quest. What Reasons have you to persuade you, that Repentance is the first peculiar work that God doth work in them whom he hath a purpose to save?  
Answ. I have very many Reasons to persuade me thereunto.  
Quest. What is the first Reason?  
Answ. My first Reason is, the constant and unchangeable order, that the holy Ghost hath observed throughout the Scriptures, in requiring Repentance and Faith, always requiring Repentance in the first place, Mark. 1.15. Math. 3.2. Luk. 3.3. Acts 2.38. Acts 3.19.  
Quest. But order in setting down things in Scripture proves nothing?  
Answ. But this is more than order in setting it down in the first place, for, I say, it is required in the first place, and the holy Ghost doth not require that first of us, which it pleaseth him to work last, but requires that first, which he pleaseth first to work.  
Quest. What is your next Reason?  
Answ. Because, until we have true Repentance wrought in us, we have no right unto any special promise, for the special promises of Grace and Mercy, are made only to the Penitent and , and therefore before Repentance, they cannot have faith in any of those special promises, Esay 61.1, 2, 3. Acts 3.19.  
Quest. What is your next Reason?  
Answ. Because no man, before he have Repentance truly wrought in him, can receive the forgiveness of his sins, for Repentance is required, that men may have their sins done away, and therefore forgiveness of sins doth follow Repentance, and so consequently Faith doth follow Repentance, Acts 2.38. and 3.19.  
Quest. But doth it follow that because Remission of Sins doth follow Repentance, that therefore justifying Faith doth follow Repentance?  
Answ. Yes it doth because whosoever is Justified by Faith his Sins are forgiven at the same instant, but no man's Sins are forgiven, until he have true Repentance wrought in him, therefore no Man is Justified by Faith, before his heart be broken and true Repentance be wrought in him. Rom. 5.1.  
Quest. What other reason have you for to prove this point?  
Answ. Because whosoever is Justified by Faith is at peace with God, Rom. 5.1. But no Man is at peace with God, until he have truly repent, therefore no Man is Justified by Faith until he have truly repent.  
Quest. But are not Men first at peace with God and assured of his love, and afterwards come to true Repentance for their former Sins?  
Answ. No certainly it cannot be, for the special thing that the party repenting doth seek for is the pardon of Sins and peace with God, and to be assured of his love, and therefore it cannot be, that he doth enjoy peace, seeing it is that which above all other things he so earnestly seeketh and desireth, Luke 15.18.19.  
Quest. Doth not this seeking of peace with God and desire to be reconciled unto him, argue that he doth enjoy peace and that he is reconciled unto God?  
Answ. No certainly, for the desire of a thing, doth argue the want of the thing desired, and not the having of it and so this desire of peace doth plainly show the want of it.  
Quest. What is Repentance?  
Answ. Repentance is a powerful work of God's Spirit (wrought in the hearts of such as shall be saved,) whereby the heart is broken and turned from the pleasing delights of Sin, into a great fear and sorrow for them, and Confession of them unto God, and into an exceeding desire of peace and reconciliation with God, Luke 15. Acts 11.18. 2 Tim. 2.25. joel 2.12.13. Heb. 6.1. Proverbs 28.13.  
Quest. Is this Repentance that you have here described of necessity to salvation?  
Answ. It is of absolute necessity as Christ himself testifieth, where he saith except ye repent you shall all perish, Luke 13.5.  
Quest. But is it of necessity, that all those parts described in the definition of Repentance should be effected before a Man can be capable of the promise.  
Answ. This is that constant order, which God hath and ever will keep in effecting this great work of his, to humble them for their Sins, to cause them to see, and to confess and acknowledge their misery, and also earnestly to long and desire after peace and reconciliation with God, which are indeed the very substance and several parts of Repentance.  
Quest. But is not leaving of all known evil, and doing of all known good the parts of Repentance?  
Answ. No it is not, these are indeed the efects of fruits, ever following Faith and commonly called by the names of mortification, and vivification, which is a dying unto Sin, and a rising to newness of life.  
Quest. What reason can you give, to prove that this is not Repentance?  
Answ. Because Repentance must of necessity always go before Justifying Faith (as is formerly proved) but this leaving of all evil and doing of Good, ever follows after Justifying Faith.  
Quest. But it may seem, that if that be repentance, which you have described then judas had true repentance, for he was both sorrowful and also confessed his Sin?  
Answ. No, he never had that Repentance, for than he should have been received to mercy, for although he was sorrowful, and confessed he had sinned, he never attained that broken heart, nor he never sought or desired pardon, and reconciliation with God, for he knew it was in vain, for he had sinned against the holy Ghost.  
Quest. But is not Repentance and Faith wrought both at one and the same instant of time.  
Answ. No, for Repentance is that work of the Spirit, which prepares the heart, and makes it fit, to receive the assurance of grace and peace, which is by faith, and therefore, that which is a preparation to a thing, must always go before the thing, for which the preparation is made.  
Quest. But is there any distance of time between Repentance and justifying faith?  
Answ. There is not any thing passeth between Repentance and Faith, for they do not cease repenting and bewailing their lost condition, nor seeking and desiring after Grace and mercy, until such time as they be satisfied; But where God doth bestow this grace of faith, he doth always find them Repentant and repenting sinners.  
Quest. What is Justifying faith?  
Answ. It is a gracious work of God's Spirit, wrought in the hearts of such as are penitent, whereby they are assured of the free pardon, and remission of all their sins, and of peace and reconciliation with God through Jesus Christ, Rom. 5.1.5.  
Quest. Why do you in your definition of Faith add these words (wrought in the hearts of such as are penitent) seeing they are not of the definition of Faith?  
Answ. I add those words to show forth the only objects in whom it pleaseth the Lord to work this excellent work of Faith.  
Quest. Doth justifying faith give assurance, to the Penitent and broken heart, of peace with God?  
Answ. Yes, it doth, as St. Paul testifieth Romans the fift, and the first verse, being Justified by Faith, we have peace with God through Jesus Christ?  
Quest. But may not this Faith be lost at no time after the receiving of it?  
An. It cannot be lost, but it may be greatly weakened through carelessness, by falling into sin, as David did, Psal. 51.  
Quest. But may they not be deprived of the Assurance of God's love for a time?  
Answ. Yes, they may want the comfortable assurance thereof, but they have then, a promise to rest upon, which is, That whom the Lord loveth, he loveth to the end, and therefore David in his extremity said, he remembered the Lords mercies of old.  
Quest. But is not the believing of a man's sins to be pardonable justifying faith?  
Answ. No, it is not, for so all men may believe their sins to be pardonable, except they have sinned the Sin against the holy Ghost and many have this faith, that shall not be saved, but shall perish for ever.  
Quest. But is this justifying faith of necessity to be obtained of us in this life?  
Answ. It is of great necessity, for it doth minister unto us the greatest comfort that can be desired, assuring us of freedom from the greatest evil, and giving unto us a lively hope of the greatest good, making all the special promises to be ours, whereby we are upheld in the greatest afflictions that can befall us in this life.  
Quest. What are the special effects that do follow this faith?  
Answ. There are these four inseparable companions, which are the effects of faith, namely, Peace, patience, Hope and Love, a dying unto sin, and a rising again to newness and holiness of life, Rem. 5, 1, 2, 3, 4 5. 1 John 4.19.  
Quest. Wherein consisteth the death to sin or mortification?  
Answ. In the exercise of the three first effects mentioned namely, Peace, Patience and Hope.  
Quest. That we may the better understand these things, describe unto me what these three effects are somewhat distinctly, and first what that peace is?  
Answ. The peace which here I mean, is peace with God through Jesus Christ, so that whereas before, God had a controversy with them, now is reconciled unto them, so that now they are at rest, fully persuaded, God being with them, nothing may prevail against them, as it is written, If God justify, who may condemn, Rom. 8, 33.34.  
Quest. What is the second effect, namely patience?  
Answ. It is a virtue wherewith they are armed against all assaults of their enemies to bear their injuries to suffer and endure their wrongs and though they be compassed with a body of sin, and many lusts do assault them, yet endure all in quietness sustained by the Word, which saith, In patience possess ye your souls, Luke 21.19.  
Quest. What is Hope which is the third effect of Faith?  
Answ. Hope is the Anchor of the Soul, whereby they are stayed and upheld expecting those eternal good things to come, which God hath promised to his people, and which by faith they believe shall be performed, and this is that hope that maketh not ashamed, Rom. 5.5.  
Quest. Wherein consisteth that newness and holiness of life, which is called vivification, and the new resurrection?  
Answ. It consisteth in the fourth and last effect of Faith, namely love, which is the light and perfection of a Christian, which is caused by the love of God shed in their hearts, and doth extend itself, first to God their Father, and to the Lord Jesus Christ, their Redeemer, next to their Brethren, the begotten children of God then to all men, even their enemies, doing good unto them for evil, praying and mourning for them, Matthew 5.44. Acts 7.60. 1 Cor. 13. 1 John 4.19, 20 21.  
Quest. What is the outward means, which the Lord hath appointed for the working of these graces in them whom he will save?  
Answ. The outward means is the preaching of his Word, which is the Instrumental means that doth beget the Lord adding thereunto the power of his Spirit, and so it becomes powerful and effectual for the conversion of his elect, being preached either by those that are allowed Preachers in public, or by private Christians, exhorting in private.  
Qu. May wicked and unregenerate Ministers convert souls unto God?  
Answ. No, they cannot, for this is a work peculiar to such as are members of Christ, who only have this power to work this great work of conversion, having the ministry of reconciliation committed unto them. jer. 1.23.24  
Quest. Why cannot they convert souls, seeing they preach the same word of God that others do?  
Answ. They cannot for these Reasons; First, though they preach the same Word, yet is it not by them, delivered in the power, and evidence of the Spirit.  
Secondly, God hath not promised his presence with them, to make his Word powerful and effectual in their mouths, for the conversion of others, Jeremy 23.21, 22, 32.  
Thirdly, none can be said to convert, but only such, as by the power of the Spirit in themselves, do work upon the hearts and consciences of others, the same grace that themselves are partakers of.  
Fourthly, they that convert souls, shall shine as the stars for ever and ever, Dan. 12.3. but no unregenerate man shall have that glory, therefore they cannot convert souls unto God.  
Quest. Doth the law of the Decalogue or ten Commandments admit of Repentance?  
Answ. No, it doth not, but adjudgeth every transgressor to eternal condemnation, Deut. 27.26. Gal. 3.10.  
Quest. But the Apostle saith, that the Law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, Gal. 3.  
Answ. The Apostle intends there the Ceremonial law, and not the law of the ten Commandments, and indeed the Ceremonial law did preach and teach us, as a Schoolmaster, to bring us unto Christ, in every thing, and we may observe also, that the Apostle saith, that the Law was our Schoolmaster, so that it appears plainly, the apostle intends there the Ceremonial law, and not the moral.  
Quest. But the Law sets forth our misery, whereby we come to know our wretched condition?  
Answ. Yes, indeed it doth, but leaves us there without all hope or help of cure, for it cannot afford us any help at all, even like a man that wounds another, and leaves him for dead, but is not able to help him.  
Quest. What part of the word of God doth require and admit of repentance?  
Answ. It is the Gospel that admits and requires Repentance Mark. 1.1 2, 3, 4.  
Quest. What is the Gospel?  
Answ. It is a free declaration of God's grace, mercy and love for Christ's sake.  
Quest. When was this Gospel first preached?  
Answ. First, it was preached to Adam in these words, The seed of the woman shall break the Serpent's head, and afterwards to the Fathers and Prophets, and by our Lord Jesus Christ, and his Apostles in a wonderful great measure.  
Quest. If the law do not admit of Repentance, to what end serveth it?  
Answ. There is a double use of the Law; It is set down first, for the unregenerate man, that he may not deny the punishment denounced against him, and also that it may take vengeance against him, justly for his sins.  
Secondly, it is also set down for a holy and regenerate man both that as often as he looks upon it (and always he ought to look into it) he may so often bewail his wickedness, and quake at it; And as often as he calls it to mind (and night and day he ought to call it to remembrance) so often he may think of the riches of the mercy, and of the love of God, by giving him thanks by Jesus Christ, his Lord and Intercessor, who so mercifully hath set him free from the wrath of this just and holy law.  
Quest. Are all the Rites and Ceremonies (which God commanded the jews to observe) utterly abolished?  
Answ. They are all abolished, which did any way type and shadow out Christ, which was then to come in the flesh, Gal. 3.24, 25.  
Quest. What use is there then to us of the Ceremonial law?  
Answ. Yes, it is of some good use unto us, for thereby we may see how fitly every Type did shadow forth in something Christ, & seeing it performed in and by him, we may behold the wisdom and truth of God, and also the obedience of Christ to the will of his Father, and we may also have the greater Assurance against all Jews, and other opposers and enemies of Christ, that indeed he was the Messiah promised, because he fully accomplished whatsoever was before shadowed out to be performed by him, or to be fulfilled in him.  
Quest. Are we not bound to abstain from those meats forbidden to the jews, and to observe those festival days commanded to be kept by them?  
Answ. No, we are not, for those meats were forbidden to the Jews, to put a difference between them and the Gentiles, but now the partition wall being broken down by Christ's death, all meats wholesome and good for food, are lawful to be eaten, and from those holy days, and other like Ceremonies, we are set at liberty by Christ's deaths; Therefore whosoever doth teach them to be observed by us, do teach a devilish doctrine, to bring into bondage again the Church and people of God, from which Christ hath set us free, Levit. 20.23, 24, 25, 26. Ephes. 2.14. Collo. 2.16.17.20.21. Gal. 5.1.  
Quest. Did the Lord leave his people the jews without sending any to teach and instruct them?  
Answ. No, the Lord did not leave them, but sent unto them his Prophets to teach, and to instruct them in the Law and promises of God, and to bring them to repentance.  
Quest. Did they kindly entertain those Prophets?  
Answ. No, for they being all of them, (except a small Remnant) uncircumcised in heart, did persecute them, and put many of them to death, for speaking to them in the name of the Lord, Math. 23.37. Acts 7.52.  
Quest. Did not the Lord therefore take away his Prophets from them, and leave them destitute, because of their contempt of them?  
Answ. No, the Lord, for that small Remnants sake, did not long leave them without some Prophet, or holy man to teach and instruct them, that they might be saved.  
Quest. What were the special Sacraments which the Lord vouchsafed unto the jews?  
Answ. They were two, Circumcision, and the Passeover Gen. 17.10.11. Exod. 12.  
Quest. What did Circumcision teach them?  
Answ. Circumcision did teach and preach unto them the Circumcision of the heart, which Circumcision of the heart God did especially require and call for. jer. 4.4. Rom. 2.28.  
Quest. What was signified by the Passeover?  
Answ. Christ Jesus, who was indeed the true Paschall Lamb, the substance of that Ceremony who was in fullness of time to be sacrificed for them, Gal. 44. 1 Cor. 57  
Quest. Then it seems that all those Rites and Ceremonies had a spiritual intent and signification?  
Answ. Yes, certainly they had, but yet many of the Jews remained blind and ignorant thereof, and contented themselves with the performance of the outward work, and never saw the spiritual intent and mystery of them, by which means they might have become profitable unto them.  
Quest. Why do we commonly distinguish the times, before the coming of Christ, and the time since his coming, by these terms (of under the Law, and under the Gospel) was not the Gospel preached before the coming of Christ in the flesh?  
Answ. Yes, it was preached to Adam, and to the Patriarches, and also by the Prophets, (as we said before) but yet to very few, but the Nation of the Jews and but darkly unto them, under Tips and shadows; But since his coming, it hath not only been published to them, but almost to all Nations in the world, and therefore in regard of the abundant Revelation of the Gospel, the accomplishing of the work of man's Redemption, and the powerful work of God, causing so many to entertain and embrace it, therefore do we call this the time of the Gospel, or the joyful time, wherein the glad tidings of salvation is brought not only to Jews, but to Gentiles also.  
Quest. When began this Gospel to be so plentifully preached?  
Answ. It began first to be preached by john Baptist, and afterwards by Christ, and by the Disciples sent out by him but more abundantly by the Apostles, after the Death, Resurrection, and Ascension of Christ, Math. 28.20.  
Quest. We have formerly spoken of the death of Christ, now tell me what became of him after the jews had put him to that shameful death?  
Answ. He was Buried Io. 19.40, 41 42.  
Quest. By whom was he buried?  
Answ. By joseph of Arimathea, who went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus, and laid it in a new Sepulchre, which he had hewn out for himself john 19.38.  
Quest. Did he continue long in the Grave?  
Answ. He risen again the third day, Math. 28.6. 1 Cor. 15.4. Math. 16.21.  
Quest. Wherefore did Christ rise again?  
Answ. To show unto us that he had overcome all the powers of the Devil, Hell, and Death, and the Grave, for our Justification, Rom. 5.25.  
Quest. To whom did he show himself after his Resurrection?  
Answ. To Marry Magdalen, and the other Marry, Mark. 16.9. and to two Disciples as they went to Emmaus, Mark. 16.12. Luke 24.13. And to the eleven Apostles, as they sat together, john 20.19. and to more than five hundred Brethren at once, and also at sundry other times, when they were together, he shown himself unto them alive after his passion, by many infallible proofs and testimonies, Acts 1.  
Quest. How long did he remain with them after his resurrection?  
Answer. He was seen of them after his resurrection by the space of forty days, Acts 1.3.  
Quest. What did he with them all that time?  
Ans. He spoke unto them of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God, Acts 1.3.  
Quest. What special promise did he make unto them before his departure?  
Answ. That they should be baptised with the holy Ghost, Acts 1.5.  
Quest. What became of him after that he had spoken unto them of those things?  
Answ. He was taken up into heaven out of their sight, a cloud receiving him, Acts 1.9.  
Quest. What appeared unto them as they looked after him?  
Answ. Two men appeared in white apparel, telling them that the same Jesus, which was taken up from them should so come in like manner, as they had seen him go into heaven, Acts 1.10, 11.  
Quest. What became of the Disciples after his the Ascension into heaven?  
Ans. They returned to Jerusalem, from the mount called Olivet, Acts 1.12.  
Quest. What did they when they came to Jerusalem?  
Answ. They continued together with one accord in supplication and prayer, and did choose another Apostle Acts 1.14.  
Quest. How did they choose him?  
Answ. They appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed justus and Mathias and when they had prayed, they cast lots, and the sort fell upon Mathias, and he was numbered with the eleven Apostles, Acts 1.23, 24 25, 26.  
Quest. When did Christ perform that promise, which he made unto them namely that they should be baptised with the holy Ghost?  
Answ. At the feast of Pentecost, which was within few days after his Ascension Acts 2.  
Quest. In what manner was it performed?  
Answ. They being all met together in one place there came a found from heaven and filled all the house and there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them, and they were all filled with the holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance, Acts 2.1, 2.3, 4.  
Qu. What happened thereupon?  
Answ. Many were amazed and wondered at this great work, and others mocking, said they were full of new wine Acts 2.12.13.  
Quest. How did the Apostles clear themselves, of that false accusation?  
Answ. Peter stood up with the eleven, proving that they could not be drunk, because it was but the third hour of the day, and also that this was, but the fulfilling of a promise, which the Lord had made by the mouth of the Prophet joel, Acts 2.16. joel 2.28, 29.  
Quest. What did the Apostles after they had thus cleared themselves from that false accusation?  
Ans. Peter preached unto them the death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, telling them, that they had taken him, and by wicked hands, had crucified and slain him, Acts 2.23.  
Quest. What followed thereupon?  
Answ. They were pricked in their hearts, and cried out to Peter, and the rest of the Apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Acts 2.37.  
Qu. What counsel did they give them?  
Answ. They exhorted them to repent, and be baptised in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins Acts 2.38.  
Quest. What followed upon this exhortation?  
Answ. They that gladly received the Word, were baptised and the same day there were added to them about three thousand souls, and they continued in the Apostles doctrine and fellowship and in breaking of Bread and prayers Acts 2.41 42.  
Quest. What followed upon this great work, wrought upon those men?  
Answ. Fear came upon every soul and they that believed sold their possessions and parted their goods to all men as every man had need, and they had all things common Acts 2.44 45.  
Quest. Were any great works done by the Apostles?  
Answ. Yea many wonders signs, and miracles were done by them. Acts 5.12.  
Quest. What was the principal end of those miracles?  
Ans. God did thereby bear witness to their doctrine that it was his, which they did preach, by giving them power to work such miracles, Heb. 2.4.  
Quest. Were the people moved by those miracles to receive their doctrine?  
Answ. Yea, very many were moved therewith, and wondering at the miracles, believed their doctrine, and were baptised even as many as were ordained to eternal life.  
Quest. Were none moved by their preaching, to believe their doctrine, but such as were ordained to eternal life.  
Answ. Yes certainly such was the power of their ministry, that many others believed the truth of their doctrine, and were baptised, as Simon Magus, and doubtless divers others, which never received the special benefit of the Gospel which they preached, Acts 8.13. Math. 13.  
Qu. May such outward Christians be suffered to partake with the faithful in the holy things of God?  
Answ. Yes they may be suffered to partake with them in the outward ordinances, the Word and Sacraments until such time as they appear to be hypocrites, and become offensive to the Church and people of God, and then they are to be cast out of the Church by excommunication.  
Qu. Do those outward Christians rest content with that common work of grace in them?  
Ans. Yes many of them do so long as they live and also conceive themselves to be in a good estate, to be the children of the Freewoman, whereas indeed they are children of the Bondwoman; others fall away, to an open and malicious opposition of the truth of God formerly professed by them, Mat. 25. Io. 8.33.39.40. Math. 26.14, 15, 16.  
Quest. Do not many of them go on very far in the profession of the truth?  
Answ. Yes doubtless, many are greatly enlightened by it, and receive it with joy, and go on joying, and rejoicing in it for a time, and do taste of the heavenly gift, and of the powers of the world to come, and are made partakers of the holy Ghost, and sanctified by the blood of the Covenant, Math. 13.20, 21. Heb. 6.4, 5, 6 Heb. 10.29.  
Quest. Is it possible for such to fall away and perish?  
Answ. Yes, it is possible for such to fall away, and to tread under foot, the Son of God, and to account the blood of the Covenant, wherewith he was sanctified an unholy thing, and to despite the Spirit of Grace, Heb. 10.29.  
Quest. May they be truly said to be sanctified that fall away and perish?  
Answ. Yes, they may be truly said so to be, and are so indeed, as the Apostle showeth, Heb. 10.29.  
Quest. Doth not the Apostle there speak of them, according as they made show to be, and not as if indeed they were so?  
Answ. No certainly for there the Apostle declares unto us what great effects of the Spirit men may be partakers of and yet fall away, and perish for ever.  
Quest. What is that Sanctification which men may have and yet perish?  
Answ. It is an outward washing or cleansing caused by the holy Ghost enlightening the understanding, causing them to see the benefit offered in the Gospel, by which means they come to a liking of it, and do for a time receive it with joy, and are in many things conformed to the obedience of the same, forsaking many of their evil ways, wherein aforetime they had taken delight, Heb. 6.4, 5. Math, 13.20, 21. 2 Pet. 2.20.21.  
Quest. Are these effects of the Spirit vouchsafed unto them, to the end they might be saved?  
Answ. No certainly, but God doth it to gain glory unto his name, and to leave them without excuse, who do quench that light in them, and willingly resist and contemn that grace that is offered in the Gospel, 2 Peter 2.21.  
Quest. What is their Sin which they commit called in the Scripture?  
Answ. The sin against the holy Ghost, Math. 12.31, 32.  
Q. Why is it called the sin against the holy Ghost?  
Answ. Because it is committed directly against that light evidenced unto their consciences by the holy Ghost Mat. 12.31, 32. Heb. 10.26.  
Quest. I pray you give me a brief definition of that Sin?  
Answ. It is a wilful opposition, and rejection of the Gospel of God, after the holy Ghost hath enlightened them and persuaded their hearts of the truth and benefit of the same, Heb. 6.4. Heb. 10.26.29.  
Quest. Is it possible to come to know any of them that commit this sin?  
Answ. Yes, it is possible, else would not the Apostle have told us, that there is a sin, which we should not pray for 1 john 5.16.  
Quest. How do you know that the Apostle means this sin in that place, which he would not have us pray for?  
Answ. Because all other sins are pardonable, and therefore may be prayed for, but this sin is unpardonable, and therefore not to be prayed for, Matthew 12.32.  
Quest. How comes it to pass that this sin above all others should be unpardonable?  
Answ. Because the very way and means of salvation is despised and rejected, after they have received the knowledge of the truth, and therefore it is impossible to renew them again by Repentance, seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame Heb. 6.6.  
Quest. How do they crucify to themselves the Son of God?  
Answ. Even like as the Jews did reject Christ, and crucify him when he was with them upon earth, so these men do now reject him, and do crucify him, by their wilful contempt of him, and his sacrifice; And as the Jews did, so do they, put him to an open shame, and so rejecting that sacrifice, which was ordained of God from all eternity to take away sins, it is impossible their sins should be pardoned, for there remaineth no more sacrifice for sin, Heb. 10.29.  
Quest. Do men come on a sudden to commit this fearful sin.  
Answ. No, but by degrees for first there is a light esteem of the Gospel and of the grace offered therein.  
Secondly, a looking back to their pleasures passed with some liking of them.  
Thirdly, a yielding consent of the will and affections to the flesh, for the embracing of them again, and so by little and little, return like the dog to his own vomit again, and like the Sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire, 2 Pet. 2.22.  
Quest. Do all the Reprobate commit this sin?  
Answ. No, because many of them, are never so fare enlightened by the holy Ghost, to see and perceive those things, which those do that fall into that sin.  
Quest. Is not their estate more miserable that commit this sin than others that do not commit that sin, and yet notwithstanding shall perish for ever?  
Answ. Yes certainly, for although the estate of others be miserable, yet the misery of these shall fare exceed, for to whom much hath been committed, of him much shall be required, and he that knoweth his masters will and doth it not, shall be beaten with many stripes, 2 Pet. 2.21.  
Quest. Do not such as commit this sin, prove dangerous enemies to the Church of God?  
Answ. Yes assuredly, none greater enemies to the truth, and to the people of God, than those that once have professed the truth, and afterwards have turned from the holy Commandment delivered unto them, and therefore they are carefully to be taken heed of, and to be avoided, 2 Pet. 2.21.  
Quest. What differing effects doth the holy Ghost work in those that shall be saved from those that commit this horrible sin?  
Answ. The holy Ghost doth work in them that shall be saved, a fare more excellent work, namely, that great work of regeneration, consisting of these two principal effects of the Spirit, Repentance and Faith Io. 3.5.  
Quest. Are none partakers of these two effects of the Holy Ghost but such as shall be saved?  
Answ. Not any one and none that are partakers of those effects of the Spirit, can possibly commit that sin, but all others, that are only enlightened by the holy Ghost, to see, and know the way of salvation, are in danger of falling into that sin.  
Quest. What is the best way for such to take, to be free from committing that sin?  
Answ. The best way is, not to content themselves with that common grace of enlightening only, but to labour to find in themselves those two effects of the Spirit, Repentance and Faith, and to be earnest with the Lord by prayer, that he by his Spirit, would work effectually, for the breaking their hearts, and humbling them, that so he may raise them up again according to his promise, and never to give rest unto their souls, until the Lord by his Spirit assure their hearts of peace and reconciliation with him.  
Quest. But is not the prayer of all such as are unjustified abominable, how can we therefore hope that God will hear us, or grant our requests?  
Answ. The prayers of all those that are unjustified, are not abominable, but only the prayers of such wicked as hate to be reform, and cast the word of God behind them, but the prayers of such as desire to be humbled for their sins and to have their hearts broken, and brought in subjection to the will of God, and earnestly desire to be reconciled, and to be at peace with God are not abominable, but are pleasing unto God and are many times heard, and granted by him.  
Quest. But God heareth and granteth the requests of none but for Christ's sake, and all unjustified men are out of Christ therefore how can it be that God should hear them or that their prayer should be pleasing unto him.  
Answ. True it is, that all unjustified persons are out of Christ (that is) are not engrafted into him by faith; And also God heareth and granteth no requests, but for Christ's sake; But yet notwithstanding, God doth hear the requests of such as are not actually in Christ, for Christ's sake, for God is merciful to all his Creatures only in Christ, and many thousands enjoy mercies from the Lord for Christ's sake, that shall never enjoy salvation by him: And therefore though men be not actually justified, yet they may pray for Christ's sake, for the things they stand in need of, and be heard of the Lord, and their prayers pleasing, and not sin else would not the Apostle have advised Simon Magus being in the gall of bitterness, to pray that if it were possible the thought of his heart might be forgiven him, Gen. 16.13. Chap. 21.16. Acts 8.22.  
Quest. May any one of those that are made partakers of that new birth and engrafted into Christ, fall away and perish?  
Answ. No, it is not possible, for God is unchangeable in his love, where he once loves, with that special love he ever loves, for the gifts and calling of God are without Repentance, Rom. 11.20. Io. 12.1. Rom. 5.10.  
Quest. But they fall into many sins after regeneration, and therefore may not God justly cast them off?  
Answ. True it is they fall into sins after regeneration, and if we look upon God's Justice only we cannot say, but he might cast them oft; But yet God will be true in his promise, and as he did manifest his mercy, and love unto them in their new birth so will be manifest his mercy in preserving them, so that although they do sin daily, yet shall it not condemn them; For God doth justify them through Christ's death, and if God justify, who may condemn Rom. 8.33.34.  
Quest. Then it seems that the steadfastness of man in Grace, consists not in his own power and strength but in the unchangeable, Decree, and mercy of God?  
Answ. No, assuredly it consists not in his own power and strength, but in the unchangeableness of God's love for they are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation, wherein consisteth some part of man's happiness for now by Grace he is set into a better estate and condition than Adam was by his Creation, who was subject to change, 1 Peter 1.5.  
Quest. Doth not the knowledge of this Doctrine concerning man's steadfastness in grace make men secure and careless in the committing of sin?  
Answ. No certainly, it is not possible, that any of those that are regenerate should make such an use of it, but rather they considering Gods rich mercy and abundant grace, showed towards them, do labour to deny ungodliness, and worldly lusts, and do endeavour to live soberly, righteously, and godly, seeing the grace of God that bringeth salvation unto all men, hath so plentifully appeared unto them, Titus 2.11.12. Rom. 12.1.  
Quest. Do not many of the regenerate fall into great sins after their regeneration!  
Answ. Yes certainly, we have examples thereof, in Noah, David and Peter, who did fall into great sins after they were regenerate, Gen. 9.21. 2 Sam. 11.4.13 14, 15. Chap. 12.9. Mat. 26.70.72.74.  
Quest. What great damage doth come unto them by their Falls seeing they cannot fall away and perish for ever?  
Answ. The damage is very great, for besides the dishonour of God (whose glory ought to be dear unto them) they deprive themselves of their sweet peace, joy and comfort, which they did enjoy, and do cast themselves into great trouble of mind, sorrow, and fear, and many times cause the Lord, to punish them for their sin with some temporal punishment, 2 Sam. 12. Psal. 51.  
Quest. What is required of men falling into Sin after justification?  
Answ. That they should repent of their Sins and seek earnestly at the hand of God, for the pardon of them as David did Psal. 51.  
Quest. Is it in man's power to repent?  
Answ. No it is not, it is the gift of God, 2 Tim. 2.15  
Quest. Wherefore then doth the Lord require of man to repent and believe seeing he is unable to perform the same?  
Answ. The Lord requires of us to repent and believe because they are works to be performed by us, and that we seeing ourselves unable to perform them might be moved to seek for them at the hands of God, who is the only giver of them.  
Quest. What need is there for them to repent who have formerly received pardon of their Sin and cannot possibly perish because Christ's death was a full satisfaction not only for their Sins past, but for all that ever they should commit during this life?  
Answ. Yes certainly Repentance is very needful for them, and therefore the Apostle counseleth them, (amongst the rest of their spiritual armour Ephesians 6. to have their feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of peace, which is Repentance) for by their sin they having dishonoured God and grieved his Spirit, and having also deprived themselves of their sweet Communion they had with God there is no other way to obtain their peace, joy, comfort and sweet Communion with God again but by Repentance, as we may see by the example of David Psal. 51.  
Quest. Then Repentance doth not cease in men assoon as they are justified and reconciled unto God?  
Answ. No assuredly, for although they have attained the thing their souls so much desired in the day of their trouble and their wounded souls be healed and refreshed, yet do they still retain their soft and melting heart which doth daily mourn and lament for the body of Sin, and remnant of Corruption that is left in them whereby they are led Captive to Sin and to offend their Lord and Redeemer who hath been so rich and abundant in mercy towards them, Rom. 7.23.24.  
Quest. Then it seems that the estate of a true Christian in this life is a very sorrowful and mournful estate?  
Answ. It is true indeed their life is full of sorrow, this is their time of mourning and weeping, they of all others are subject to many persecutions disgraces and reproaches, besides the corruption that is within them which pursues their souls daily, so that if their hope were only in this life, they were of all men the most miserable.  
But yet notwithstanding in the midst of their afflictions and persecutions, the Lord doth give them inward joy and comfort by his Spirit, fare exceeding all worldly Joy that this world can afford, and none but they have any sound Joy; but they only do possess that Joy, which is unspeakable and full of glory, and which shall never be taken from them, Io. 16.22.  
Quest. From whence proceedeth that unspeakable joy which the faithful do enjoy?  
Answ. It proceedeth from the apprehension of God's love unto them, who hath remitted their Sins, and assured them of peace and reconciliation with him, 1 Io. 4.10.19.  
Quest. What is the first and principal cause of man's salvation?  
Answ. The first and principal cause is the Infinite love and mercy of God, Io. 3.16. So God loved the world etc.  
Quest. Was there no other moving cause to move him, ●o pity man, but his own love?  
Answ. No certainly neither needed there any other, nor could possibly be a greater cause, than his own love, goodness and mercy to move him thereunto.  
Quest. Was not Christ the principal cause of man salvation?  
Answ. No assuredly, he was indeed the material cause, but not the efficient or principal moving cause, for howsoever it be true that every person in the Godhead, did our of their infinite love decree from all eternity the salvation of man, yet in the effecting, and accomplishing of the same, every person hath his distinct operation and work appropriated unto him, so that we cannot without confusion attribute that to one person which is proper and peculiar to another.  
Quest. Declare unto me briefly the several work of every person in the Godhead distinctly and severally in the working of the Redemption of man?  
Answ. The work appropriated in Scriptures to the first person, namely the Father is of his mere love to have sent his only Son; and the work of the Son is to be sent and to take man's nature upon him, to suffer death, to satisfy the Justice of God, and to effect and bring to pass that great work of man's Redemption, and the work of the third person the Holy Ghost is to enlighten the understanding of the elect in this great mystery, and to make effectual unto them this Redemption, which Christ hath wrought for them.  
Quest. Might not the Lord have saved mankind out of his own love and goodness without the sending of his Son to take upon him our nature and to suffer death?  
Answ. Whether he might or no, we will not dare to conclude, but that which may be profitable for us we will affirm, that certain it is, that this way, which the Lord hath ordained, and also made known unto us, did best stand with his justice, and doth serve the more to manifest his Attributes of wisdom, power, goodness, love, and mercy, then if he had saved man without the giving his Son to death for him.  
Quest. Who are they that have the special benefit by the death of Christ?  
Answ. All have benefit thereby, but the elect only have the special benefit of Redemption and Justification by him, And all the rest of the Sons of Adam have a common benefit enjoying for Christ's sake the continuance of the world and the abundant blessings thereof.  
Quest. What difference is there between Redemption and Justification?  
Answ. There is this difference, Redemption is a work, which Christ hath wrought for all the Elect, even for them also which are yet unborn: and Justification is the free declaration of God's eternal love free grace and mercy, which he worketh in his good time in the hearts of his Elect, making known unto them, that the Redemption which Christ hath wrought is for them, and that they have part and portion therein.  
Quest. Wherein consisteth man's justification?  
Answ. It consisteth in the free remission and taking away of the guilt and punishment of Sin, and in the imputation of Christ's righteousness, Acts 10.43. Psal. 32.1. Rom. 4.6,  
Quest. By what means do they come to be thus freed from the guilt and punishment of sin. and also to have the righteousness of Christ imputed unto them?  
Answ. By the mere grace and favour of God, for as there was nothing but his own love to move him to elects them, so there was nothing but his own love to move him to justify them Ephes. 2.8.  
Quest. How is this made known unto them?  
Answ. It is revealed unto them by the holy Ghost, who assureth them of peace and reconciliation with God through Jesus Christ, and also worketh in them faith to lay hold and to apply unto themselves the special and peculiar promises of the Gospel. Rom. 5.1. Ephes. 8.  
Quest. Are not all men set free, from the guilt and punishment of sin by the death of Christ?  
Answ. No certainly; none but those whom God did make choice of from all eternity to be vessels of mercy.  
Quest. Wherefore should God make choice of some and leave others, seeing all had sinned alike in Adam and all alike corrupted?  
Answ. There was nothing in man at all, in one more than in another, but it was his good pleasure, nothing moving him thereunto but his own will. Rom. 9  
Quest. Did the Lord then make some men of purpose to destroy them, and to condemn them for ever?  
Answ. The Lord did decree from all eternity, to save some, and to leave others, but yet notwithstanding, he did not create them of purpose to destroy them; For the end of man's Creation, was the glory of God, and in their Creation he did not intent the destruction of the creature, but his own glory; and he made man righteous, but he brought destruction upon himself by rebelling against God, Hosea 13.9. Eccle. 7.29.  
Quest. Then the Lord is not the Author of man's condemnation?  
Answ. He is not the Author thereof, but man himself, for God at first did make man righteous and holy, and gave him power to obey and serve him, but he willingly of himself fell to disobey the command of God, and so made himself liable to eternal wrath and condemnation. Hosea 13.9. Eccle. 7.29.  
Quest. Why did not God make man so absolute perfect in himself, that he could not possibly have fallen, but might have stood in his perfection of himself?  
Answ. It could not possibly be, unless he should have been God, for it is proper only unto God to be so absolute perfect and immutable, and cannot be in any creature whatsoever.  
Quest. Do not the good Angels stand in their state of perfection and glory by themselves?  
Answ. No verily, it is through the free grace and goodness of God, that they stand and not of their own power, and that they and we also might see our own weakness, and that we all stand through his grace, he suffered both Angels and man to fall.  
Quest. Why did not God as well punish all the Angels as some of them, seeing he punished all mankind for Adam's sin?  
Answ. The case is not alike, for we all sinned in Adam, being in his loins, and are therefore polluted with corruption of nature, and do bring forth the evil fruit of sin and rebellion against God. But it was not so with Angels, they did not proceed from one another by natural generation, and therefore not in the same manner corrupted, but were all created glorious creatures; And it was but some of the Angels that sinned, and therefore none but them that sinned were punished; And although he suffered all men to fall, yet he provided a remedy to restore part of them again through Jesus Christ, and to make them heirs of glory for ever.  
Quest. Is not the remedy sufficient to redeem all mankind that had fallen through Adam's transgression?  
Answ. It is sufficient doubtless, being a price of an infinite value, and all men are thereby set in a possibility of salvation, and as we said before all men enjoy good by Christ, yet notwithstanding, God did not purpose nor intent to give his Son to death, to redeem all mankind, and so to save them for ever, but only for those whom he had elected and made choice of, to be vessels of mercy, in his wisdom from all eternity, the Lords works and do are unchangeable.  
Quest. But the Lord exhorts all men to repent, and to turn to him, promising to pardon their sins if they do repent; How then is it that God did not purpose to save all mankind by Christ's death?  
Answ. It is true indeed, that all men are exhorted to repent, and the promises are made generally to all that do repent, but none do repent, but only the elect and chosen of God, and therefore none but they enjoy the special promises of grace and mercy.  
Quest. But what is the reason that all do not repent, that so they might have right unto those special promises of grace and mercy through Christ?  
Answ. The fault is in man who through the corruption of his heart, resists this grace and mercy offered, and so hardens his heart in sin, choosing rather to enjoy his pleasure here then to humble himself to walk with God to enjoy his grace and mercy for ever.  
Quest. Have the Elect any more power in themselves, than others, to repent and turn to the Lord?  
Answ. No, none at all, but Repentance is the gift of God, (as we said before) and it is he that by his Spirit doth effect this great work in them, 2 Tim. 2.25.  
Quest. Why doth not God give repentance to all, and so save all by Christ, that so all men might for ever glorify and praise his mercy?  
Answ. It was his purpose from all eternity, as well to set forth the glory of his Justice, as of his mercy, and therefore as he did not intent, nor purpose to save them by Christ, so neither would he bestow upon them any special benefit tending that way.  
Quest. Wherefore doth God call and exhort all men to repent, seeing all cannot attain thereunto?  
Answ. He doth it for these Reasons;  
First, because his elect are mingled amongst others, and therefore he doth send his Word, and call upon all men to repent.  
Secondly, he doth it to manifest to all the freeness of his grace, that he is ready to receive all that come to him.  
Thirdly, to leave all men without excuse, and that their condemnation might more manifestly appear to be just, seeing that grace and mercy was offered them and they willingly refused and rejected it, and at that great day of Judgement, every mouth shall be stopped, and every one appear culpable before God.  
Quest. But seeing that God hath elected son, and rejected others, is it not therefore in vain to hear or read the word of God, to pray unto him, or to use any means to come to the knowledge of the way of life and salvation?  
Answ. No verily, for seeing these things are required of all men, all are bound to take knowledge thereof, and to reject or refuse them, is to reject and refuse God, who offers his grace therein, and doth by them work grace in his elect, now seeing some there are, that reap benefit by the use of them, and that no man can conclude of himself, that God hath not elected him, it is not in vain to use the means, but it is mere madness and folly to refuse and reject them.  
Quest. But by this means men may come to such a measure of knowledge, and to be so fare enlightened that they may be in danger to commit the sin against the holy Ghost, and so make their condemnation the greater?  
Answ. This cometh not by the careful use of the means, but by the abuse thereof, and light esteem of the grace offered, and therefore they are to take heed of those things that may be any occasion thereunto.  
Quest. Is it necessary that this doctrine concerning God's Predestination should be made known, seeing that it may be hurtful to many, making some secure and careless in using any means of salvation, and also causing others to despair?  
Answ. It is necessary to be known, and therefore hath the Lord been pleased to reveal it, and doubtless no hurt shall come thereby to any of the elect, but exceeding much good, for it serves greatly to humble them, and to let them see, that it is no defert of theirs, but the free grace of God, who might have chosen others, and rejected them; And as for the rest, they will abuse every truth, though it be never so good and profitable, and therefore seeing God hath been pleased to reveal it, the Elect are not to be deprived of this Benefit, because of the abuse of them by the Reprobate.  
Quest. Wherefore is it, that in Scripture our Justification is attributed unto Faith?  
Answ. We are said to be justified by Faith, not that Faith justifieth of itself, but because it is a gift of God, whereby man believeth that which the Spirit declareth and evidenceth to the conscience, namely, the pardon of sin, and assurance of grace through the blood of Christ.  
Secondly because all our own works are excluded in the matter of Justification before God, and there is no cause of boasting, for our salvation is only of the Lord, Hosea 13.9.  
Quest. If good works do not justify before God, to what end are they so often required?  
Answ. They are required for divers ends.  
First because by them we shall glorify God and adorn our holy profession, Math. 5.16.  
Secondly we shall by them be a means to win others to love our profession and give good examples to others to do the like and to follow us. 1 Pet. 2.12.  
Thirdly by this means we shall stop the mouths of the adversaries 1 Pet. 2.15.  
Fourthly we shall have comfort, if we be brought to suffer, and be accused as evil doers wrongfully, 1 Pet. 2.19.  
Fifthly we shall by them make trial of the truth of our faith and of the graces that are in us by the exercise of them as occasion is offered.  
Quest. But do not good works deserve nothing at the hands of God?  
Answ. No certainly, no works that we can do can possibly deserve any thing at the hands of God; for when we have done all that we can, we may truly say we are unprofitable servants, Luke 17.10.  
Quest. If good works deserve nothing wherefore is it that so many promises are made in Scripture unto good works?  
Answ. God hath thereby set forth his bounty to stir us up; who are backward of ourselves, adding thereunto promises of reward, But such is our weakness and great imperfections in our best works, that we have cause rather to be humbled for our wants in the performance of them, then to challenge any thing at the hands of God for the same, & yet certain it is, that the good works of God's Children shall be rewarded, though not for the worthiness of the work, yet for the truth of the promiser, who hath promised to reward the gift of a cup of cold water to one of those that belong to him, so that we have no cause to be backward in good works, but to be forward in the doing of them. Math. 10.42.  
Quest. Are all men rewarded for their good works?  
Answ. Yes certainly the righteous, God rewardeth all, either here in this life or after this life; but he in a more especial manner rewardeth the good works of his Children even those works of love and mercy extended towards the Saints their Brethren, Math. 25.  
Quest. Are there Saints now upon the earth?  
Answ. Yes verily, there have been, are, and ever shall be Saints upon the earth, Psal. 16.3.  
Quest. But seeing all men are corrupted and even after regeneration the remnants of Sin still continue in them can the name of Saints be properly given unto them?  
Answ. Yes it may be well given unto them for God so accounts of them as being without Sin, beholding no iniquity in them, Numbers 23.21. Canticles 4.7. Ephes. 5.27.  
Quest. If God behold all things and nothing be hid from his allseeing eye, how can it be but that he should see those Sins which his elect do daily and continually fall into?  
Answ. It is true that God beholdeth all things and cannot be ignorant of those Sins which they fall into, yet notwithstanding God doth look upon them in Christ and beholds them all righteous and holy in him, imputing the righteousness of Christ unto them, Rom. 4.6.7. 1 Cor. 1.30. 2 Cor. 5.21.  
Quest. What is that righteousness of Christ which is imputed unto the Saints, and for which they are accounted holy?  
Answ. All the righteousness of Christ whatsoever, his active obedience performed to the law, his passive obedience in suffering whatsoever was due unto them for Sin, and what the Justice of God could require at their hands; yea all the holiness that is in Christ, either of his nature, as he was man, or of his actions as he was Mediator between God and man is all imputed unto them, 1 Cor. 1.30. Rom. 5.19. Esay 9.6.  
Quest. Then by imputation they are absolute, holy and righteous?  
Answ. Yes verily, they are so, even absolute, pure righteous and holy, Numb. 23.21.  
Quest. Have they no other holiness, but this which is imputed unto them?  
Answ. Yes verily, for as God doth impute holiness unto them, even the holiness of Christ (in whom alone they are accepted as righteous) so also doth he work holiness in them, by his Spirit, making them in some measure conformable to Christ, renewing and sanctifying, and making them holy, and causing them also to work holiness and righteousness, which is one main end of their election, and of their Redemption by Jesus Christ Ephes. 1.4 Luke 1.74 75.  
Quest. Then it seems that this holiness is not attained by any power or virtue that is in them?  
Answ. No verily, it is the free gift of God, Ephes. 28.  
Quest. By all this that hath been said, I gather that God did not elect any unto salvation, upon the foresight of any works or holiness that was to be in them?  
Answ. It is very true, he did not, but it was his own love and free grace that moved him, for they are elected and chosen of God, not for any foreseen holiness, but to be holy, being his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, that they should walk in them, Ephes. 2.10. So that good works are no cause of their Election but their Election is the cause of their good works, and good works are an evidence both to themselves, and to others also of their election, but no cause thereof, 1 Pet, 1.2. Ephes. 1.4.  
Quest. Whereof doth that Church of Christ consist, unto which all the special promises are made?  
Answ. It consisteth only of such as are regenerate, who are all Saints, the members of Christ, who are honoured with so many glorious Titles being called the Church, and body of Christ, his Spouse his habitation, his Temple, Zion Jerusalem, and many such like 2 Cor. 6.16. Ephes. 5.23. Cant. 4.8.9.10. Psal. 87. 1 Cor. 3.16.17. Gal. 4.26. Ephes. 5.30. 1 Cor. 12.27.  
Quest. What are those special promises that are made unto this Church?  
Answ. All promises of this life, and of that which is to come, 1 Tim. 4.8.  
Quest. What are those special promises that concern this life?  
Answ. They are such as concern every one of them in particular, or all in general assembling together.  
Quest. What are those promises that concern every one of them in particular?  
Answ. All good things, as protection, providence, peace, joy, comfort, the assurance of his love, and the hope of eternal good things to come which doth comfort them in the midst of all their trials that befall them in this life, Esay 43.1, 2, 3. Esay 54.7, 8, 9, 10. joh. 13, 1. Titus 2.13. 2 Cor. 4.17.18.  
Quest. What are those promises that concern them all in general assembling together?  
Answ. They are such as pertain to the ruling, and governing, teaching, instructing and comforting of this Church, being met together in the name of Christ, and to the well ordering of the same for the benefit of the whole body of Jesus Christ, Ephes. 4.8 11 12, 13.  
Quest. But the members of this Church are dispersed, and cannot meet together, how can some few members of the same, reap any benefit by any special promise made unto the Church in general?  
Answ. Yes doubtless they may, and the Saints do assuredly reap great comfort and benefit thereby, yea every Congregation, and company of Saints meeting together in the name of Christ, may expect and took for the performance of the promises made by Christ to the whole Church, for that which is made to the whole Church, is made also to every part thereof.  
Quest. What are those special promises that concern the Saints being gathered and met together in the name of Christ?  
Answ. Unto them thus meeting together hath Christ promised his presence to be in the midst of them, and hath given unto them the keys of the kingdom of heaven, to bind and lose, promising them to confirm and ratify in heaven, what they agree upon in earth, binding in heaven whom they bind on earth, and losing in heaven whom they lose on earth, promising them also perseverance (notwithstanding the great malice of their Adversaries) the gates of hell shall never prevail against it, Math. 16.18 19 Math. 18.20. Math. 18.18.19, 20.  
Quest. Doth not this power of binding and losing, belong to any other but only to the Saints?  
Answ. No certainly, it belongs to none other but only to them, neither are any fit for such a work, but only the Saints, neither is the promise of binding in heaven, and losing in heaven them who are bound on earth, and loosed on earth, made to any other, but only to the Saints, the true members of Jesus Christ, and therefore whosoever they be that lay claim or title to this power, and are not Saints, do claim and challenge that unto which they have no right, Math. 16.18, 19 Math. 18.19.20.  
Quest. But is it not given to the Pastors and Ministers of the Church?  
Answ. Yes, it is given chief unto them, if they be Saints yet not only to them, but also (with them) to the rest of the Saints their Brethren.  
Quest. But all the Saints are not fit to be employed in this great work?  
Answ. It is true that all the Saints may not be fit for this work, and therefore those are to be employed in the great affairs of the Church, who have the greatest measure of Grace, bestowed on them, according to that saying of the Apostle, 1 Pet. 4.10. as God hath distributed to every man, so let him minister etc. yet the least Saint is not to be despised or contemned who may be helpful to the body whereof by Christ they are made members. 1 Cor. 12.21.  
Quest. Is it possible for the Saints in this life to know one another?  
Answ. Yes doubtless, God doth declare and evidence them by his Spirit, even to the consciences of his children, that so they, may rejoice in the fellowship one of another, and perform the duties required of them one to another, to the performance of which the reward is promised, which they cannot perform unless they know one another, Math. 25. chap. 10.40, 41, 42.  
Quest. But hypocrites may countterfeit true grace, and make a show of holiness, and Satan can transform himself into an Angel of light?  
Answ. All this is true, you say but yet the Saints having the Spirit of Christ in them, and knowing the nature of true grace, are able to judge of and to discern true grace from the counterfeit shows of hypocrites.  
Quest. But hypocrisy is hid in the heart, and it is proper to God to know the heart, and the Apostle saith, 1 Cor. 2.11. That no man knoweth the things of a man, but the spirit of man which is in him.  
Answ. It is true also, but yet notwithstanding the hearts of others are manifest unto them, when God shall reveal them unto his Saints, by making such a clear evidence of his grace to appear, so that they may discern the same work of grace in others, that is in themselves; For it is impossible that true grace should always lie hid, but it will be manifested, at one time or other, to the comfort and rejoicing of the rest of the Saints.  
Quest. But by the parable of the Draw-net, in the thirteenth of Matthew it doth appear that there may be wicked men in the Church undiscovered, and not known to be hypocrites, until the great day of the Lord?  
Answ. It is true, there may be such, for I do not say, that all hypocrites may be discerned and known, but that it is possible for the Saints to know one another even in this life.  
Quest. If all the Saints may be discerned and known, than those that are not discerned to be Saints are to be judged hypocrites?  
Answ. We cannot so conclude of them, for though they be nor, as yet discerned and known, yet afterwards they may be, or they may be Saints, and departed this life undiscerned, through want of the fellowship of the Saints who only are able to discern the truth of grace in the Saints.  
Quest. But how may we discern and know others to be Saints?  
Answ. It is very hard to set down any particular notes whereby they may be known, because the graces that do demonstrate them to be Saints, are inward, and therefore are better conceived, then can be expressed in word by us, nevertheless, if we can upon good ground assure ourselves that we are Saints let us see and observe wherein we go beyond an hypocrite in the enjoying of any special and peculiar grace and then let us expect and look for the same grace in others, and wheresoever we find that blessed work of grace and fruit of the good tree engrafted into Christ by a lively faith we may certainly conclude he is a good tree because he bringeth forth good fruit.  
Quest. But the most holy and righteous do daily sin, and do that which is evil, and hypocrites may also do many good things, even works which are very good in outward appearance.  
Answ. It is true indeed, but yet notwithstanding the evil which the Saints do, is none of their fruit nor the good that hypocrites do is none of their fruit. It cannot properly be called their fruit, for the fruit is that which doth discover the tree, either to be good or evil Matth. 7.16.20. Rom. 7.19.  
Quest. What is then the fruit of the good tree that doth discover itself, and prove him to be a good tree.  
Answ. The fruit of the good tree engrafted into Christ is manifold, but principally it is love, which hath its first beginning from the apprehension of God's love to them, and is first returned to God again, and to the Lord Jesus Christ next to their brethren the begotten of God, & to all men even to their very enemies, doing good even to them that hate them. Mat. 5.44. 1 Joh. 4.19. Chap. 5.1.  
Quest. What is the fruit of the evil tree?  
Answ. It is also manifold, but principally it consists in the contrary to this fruit of the good tree, as contempt of God and despising and hating of his truth and children.  
Quest But hypocrites may dissemble a love unto God, and to his truth and children?  
Answ. It is true, but yet they cannot so dissemble to make the children of God believe and account them for Saints yet they will hope the best of them, until their dissimulation be made manifest and they discovered to be evil trees.  
Quest. But is it possible to know them to be Saints of a sudden assoon as they come to converse with them?  
Answ. No certainly, especially in these times wherein we live, for no doubt corruption doth bear great sway in many that no doubt are Saints, and the power of Grace doth not manifest itself in many, by reason of many discouragements that they meet with, and for want of examples to go before them to encourage them; and therefore it is very hard to discern them, & hence it comes to pass that it is held an impossible thing to know them in this life.  
Quest. How are the company of Saints called in the Scriptures?  
Answ. They are called by many honourable names and titles, as the Church of Christ, his body his spouse, his habitation, his Temple, Zion, Jerusalem the pillar and ground of truth, and many such like. Ephes. 5.30. 1 Cor. 12.27. Cant. 4.8.9.10. 2 Cor. 6.16. Gal. 4.26.  
Quest. When is this Church and company of Saints to be found?  
Answ. This Church is dispersed over the whole world, even amongst the very heathen.  
Quest. How can it be that there should be any Saints in such places, seeing they are ignorant of Christ, and there is no name under Heaven whereby we may be saved but only by the name of jesus Christ? Acts 4.12.  
Answ. It is true, neither are they saved by any other name under heaven, but by Christ alone.  
Quest. How can they be saved by him, who never came to know him, either to come, or come in the flesh?  
Answ. It may well be notwithstanding, for there is left in man, even since his fall, a certain knowledge of God, and that he is to be feared and served, and there is also a law written in their hearts condemning of them for disobeying the law of God, whereby they come to see themselves miserable, and to be liable to the wrath of this just God, though they know not how they came to be so at the first, and also they see the goodness of God extended towards them manifested in his creatures God also working in them by his spirit, persuading them, that if they will seek mercy at his hands, he will be merciful to their souls as well as to their bodies and this mercy of God is extended unto them for Christ his sake, though they know not by whose means and for whose sake they receive it. Rom. 2.14, 15.26. Acts 14.17. Rom. 1.19, 20.  
Qu. Is there not a communion and fellowship amongst the Saints although they be thus dispersed  
Answ. Yes verily they have a spiritual communion and fellowship, all partaking of the same grace, all being begotten by one father, all born of water and spirit all partakers of one precious faith, all ruled and governed by one and the same holy spirit, who worketh in them a love to one another, though they never beheld the faces one of another, and do joy and rejoice in the happiness and prosperity one of another, and for that end are daily suitors to God in prayer one for another. Ephes. 2.14. Chap. 4.4.5.6.  
Quest. What is the duty of the Saints being made known one to another?  
Answ. Their duty is to assemble themselves together in the name of Christ, to worship God, to pray unto him, and to praise him to exhort, comfort, and build up one another, and to rejoice in the fellowship one of another, and to pray with and for one another and to minister comfort one unto each other both in spiritual and temporal things as they are able and the necessity of their brethren require. Heb. 10.25. Mat. 18. jude 19.20. Heb. 13.16.  
Quest. What special promise is made unto them being thus assembled in the name of Christ?  
Answ. A most excellent and comfortable promise of Christ his gracious presence to be in the midst of them to direct them, that whatsoever they agree on, on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask him, shall be done for them of his Father which is in heaven, Mat. 18.19.  
Quest. Is not this promise belonging to general assemblies that meet in public congregations and may not they expect this promise to be performed unto them.  
Answ. If that the Saints, in the public congregations do meet together after this manner that we have declared than they may expect the fulfilling of this promise of Christ, but none but only the Saints, have this promise made unto them.  
Quest. But we hope that there are Saints in every public assembly, doth not this promise of Christ therefore belong unto them.  
Answ. It cannot be denied, but must be acknowledged, that Christ will be with his people in the public assemblies where his true worship is performed, and his word truly preached yea at all times, but this promise of Christ, his presence is a peculiar promise made to the Saints when they assemble together and agree upon any thing, to ask that may be for the glory of God, and the good of their brethren, Math. 18.  
Quest. Why will Christ be with this Church, and with no other?  
Answ. Because there is a near union and conjunction between Christ and his members, even as between the head and the members of our bodies; He having redeemed them with his blood, and hath taken upon him to provide for, and to furnish this Church with all necessary graces, being unto them a Priest, a Prophet, and a King, Heb. 4.14. Acts 3.22. Esay 9.6.  
Quest. How is Christ a Priest unto them?  
Answ. By offering up himself once for them unto God, a living sacrifice for to make reconciliation between God and them, and also by presenting of himself before God for them, and by offering up and presenting their prayers, and causing them to have acceptation at the hands of God, through his presentation, Heb. 2.17. Rom. 8.34. Heb. 9.14. Revel. 8.3, 4.  
Quest. How is he a Prophet unto them?  
Answ. By making known unto them his Father's will, revealing unto them the way of life and peace, making known unto them heavenly mysteries, teaching and instructing them by his Word and Spirit, and also by sending his Ministers, and enabling them for that great work, by all which they are built up and grow in grace and knowledge, and all wisdom, and heavenly understanding in the will and ways of God.  
Quest. What are the continual ministers that Christ hath left in his Church to teach and instruct it until his second coming?  
Answ. He did at first give unto them Apostles, Prophets and Evangelists whom he vouchsafed to make the Penmen of the Scriptures, who were to be guides unto all the rest, that were to succeed them, he also hath ordained other Ministers in his Church, as Pastors and Teachers to be Expositors of the Scriptures and for the applying them to the consciences of the people; For the gathering together of his Church, and the edifying of the body of Christ which are known and distinguished, from the rest of the Church, not so much by any outward calling by man, but by the excellency of gifts and graces bestowed on them, and their faithful employing their gifts, and discharge of that office that they are called unto by Christ, Ephes. 4.11. Ephes. 4.12.  
Quest. How doth Christ manifest himself to be a King unto his Church?  
Answ. By giving unto them holy and just laws, precepts and ordinances, to be observed of them, and also by ruling and governing them by the Sceptre of his Word and Spirit, subjecting their hearts, wills, and affections unto him, and to his truth, to love, desire, and embrace the same, and to yield all subjection unto him.  
Qu. Wherein are the Saints chief to be exercised whilst they remain here, for their mutual comfort, and increase of grace in them?  
Answ. In the holy use of the word of God, Prayer, and the Sacraments.  
Quest. Wherein is that word of God contained?  
Answ. In those books of Scripture, which we commonly call the old and new Testament, in which are contained many holy directions, and gracious promises, and consolations, able to sustain them in the greatest miseries that can befall them.  
Quest. To whom is the word of God committed?  
Answ. To all the whole Church of God for their instruction and comfort.  
Quest. Who may dispense the word of God unto others?  
Answ. All they whom God hath given wisdom and understanding therein, and hath showed the mysteries thereof, they are to minister unto the rest of the body according to their measure of grace received.  
Quest. What is prayer?  
Answ. It is a calling upon God with the heart in the name of Christ jesus, for all lawful things that we stand in need of. Psal. 142.2. john 16.23.24.  
Quest. What things are necessarily required in our prayer unto God?  
Answ. There are these three things required in prayer,  
First confession which is the acknowledgement of our sin and misery, and unworthiness to receive Psal. 32.5.  
Secondly Petition, which is the ask of things needful. Mat. 7.7.  
Thirdly thanksgiving which is the acknowledging of his power goodness and mercy, and the returning him praise and thanks for his former mercies bestowed on us.  
Quest. Have we any example or pattern according to which we are to frame all our prayers.  
Ans. Yea a most absolute and perfect form given unto us by Christ Jesus himself in the 6. of Matthew commonly called the Lords prayer.  
Quest. Are we not bound therefore unto that prayer to use it and none but it.  
Ans. For the matter contained in it we are, but not the form of words, and although we may use the same words yet also we may by the example of the Apostles, use another form of words, and yet offend not against that most absolute rule, so long as we desire nothing, but what is therein contained.  
Quest. May we join in prayers with those that read their prayers in a book?  
Answ. Yes doubtless if their prayers be good for the matter, and performed with reverence and affection, even as well as we may with those that use an ordinary form although they do not read it in a book or with those that conceive prayer, for therein are we stinted as well as in joining with them that pray out of a book, and we may enlarge our desires in joining with one and with the other.  
Quest. When are we to use prayer?  
Ans. At all times, upon all occasions, we are to lift up our hearts to God by holy requests, even in every thing we take in hand, and also in the public meetings of the Saints, but there are other special times, wherein every Christian hath liberty to make choice of the fittest time in his own wisdom and discretion, as he hath need.  
Quest. What is a Sacrament?  
Ans. A Sacrament is an outward visible sign appointed by God to teach unto his people spiritual and heavenly mysteries.  
Quest. Do the Sacraments teach any other thing then that which the word of God doth?  
Ans. Not any other thing is taught thereby but the very same thing is visibly preached and presented to our eyes by visible signs, which we hear with our ears preached out of the word of God.  
Quest. How many Sacraments are there now appointed by God continually to teach and instruct his Church?  
Answ. Only two, Baptism and the Supper of the Lord. Mat. 28.19. Chap. 26..27. etc.  
Quest. What is Baptism?  
Answ. It is a teaching sign, whereby is visibly preached unto us, by the water and the outward washing, Regeneration, the new birth of water and the Spirit that is Repentance and faith required of all that will enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. Io. 3.  
Quest. Is Baptism necessary to salvation?  
Answ. The things signified by the outward signs of water and washing which indeed is Baptism is of necessity to salvation, as our Lord testifieth Io. 3.5.  
Quest. Are not the outward signs of necessity to salvation?  
Answ. No they are not of that necessity, for many no doubt may be partakers of that new birth signified by the outward washing, which never heard of the outward Baptism.  
Quest. But what if any shall contemn and despise the outward Baptism?  
Answ. It is not possible for any that know it to be an ordinance of God, and despise it, and will not be baptised, it is impossible for such to be saved.  
Quest. Are all the elect regenerate when they are outwardly baptised?  
An. No certainly for many of them live many years before that work be wrought in them, but God doth work in them that great work of Regeneration at what time it pleaseth him.  
Quest. But doth the Lord require of us to submit to his own ordinance and will he not work that which is signified thereby?  
Answ. The Lord will have us obedient to his ordinance, and it is his goodness to afford unto us such an excellent help, to teach and instruct us, & to confirm unto us the truth of his promise by such an outward visible sign or seal, but he hath not any where promised that he will work that work of grace in them at that instant in their outward Baptism or by it.  
Quest. But there are promises made unto Baptism of eternal life, and such promises belong to none but the regenerate therefore they are also regenerate in Baptism.  
Answ. It is true that in Scripture there are made promises of eternal life unto Baptism; but there are two Baptisms, spoken of in Scripture the one, men may be partakers of & perish, which is the outward washing and the other which is the inward washing, whosoever are partakers of shall assuredly have eternal life, which is indeed the Baptism of the spirit, which whosoever are partakers of have put on Christ and are buried with Christ, and are baptised into his death, and so shall also live with Christ in eternal glory.  
Quest. May Infants be baptised, seeing they cannot understand what is done or meant by Baptism?  
Answ. Yes doubtless they may as well as children might be circumcised, both Sacrament signifying one and the same thing, and therefore they being as capable of the thing signified now, as they were then, may be baptised for the Lord would thereby show unto us that we are all born polluted and defiled, our nature being corrupted, and that children have need of that inward washing of the spirit signified by outward Baptism, and all so to teach us that Infants may be saved as well as others seeing he would admit them to be partakers of that his ordinance.  
Quest. Whhat is the Sacrament of the Lords Supper?  
Answ. It is also an outward sign whereby is represented unto us by the breaking of the Bread, and the pouring out of the Wine the Lord's death the breaking of his body and the pouring out of his blood and by the receiving of those signs of Bread and Wine is set forth unto us the participation and communion of the faithful in his death and in whatsoever he hath done for them and it is their thankful remembrance thereof till he come, 1 Cor. 11.  
Quest. Who are to partake of this Sacrament?  
Answ. It was instituted only for the Saints, who are engrafted into Jesus Christ by a true and lively faith: and for their comfort a one.  
Quest. May not others be admitted to this Sacrament?  
Answ. They ought not to be admitted if they be known to be wicked, and contemners of good things, and indeed they ought not to presume to eat thereof, considering the danger and damage that comes by unworthy eating and drinking thereof, 1 Cor. 11.28.29.  
Quest. What is the danger in unworthy eating, and drinking thereof?  
Answ. They provoke the Lord to lay judgements upon them, for abusing his ordinance, which was ordained only for the help and comfort of the faithful, and so eat and drink damnation to themselves, 1 Cor. 11.  
Quest. What great things hath the Scriptures foretold us, that are yet unfulfilled the performance whereof we are to expect in these latter days?  
Answ. The destruction of Antichrist, that man of Sin; The restoration of the truth from those errors abroad in the world the coming down of the Turks upon the Christians, and the coming of the Lord unto Judgement, 2 Thes. 2.8. Revel. 21.11. chap. 1.17.16. chap. 18. Rev. 20.8, 9 Ezek. 38.2. and chapped. 39.1.  
Quest. Is the time of the destruction of Antichrist laid down in the Scriptures?  
Answ. Yes certainly.  
Quest. But is it possible to find out the time of his destruction?  
Answ. Yes assuredly, for the Lord hath caused it to be written for that end, that the Church of God might know it, and might reap the greater comfort thereby, in not only knowing, that he shall be destroyed, but also in knowing the year of his destruction, they may have their minds settled and patiently wait, and not doubt the fulfilling of that promise concerning his destruction.  
Quest. But is not times and seasons, only known unto the Lord?  
Answ. Times and seasons are known also to the Church, when it pleaseth God to reveal them for the comfort of his people as we may see that the time of deliverance of Israel out of the captivity in Babylon was revealed and made known unto Daniel, which he found out by books that were written.  
Quest. In what place of Scripture is the time of Antichrists destruction laid down?  
Answ. In the book of the Revelation and the eleventh chapter, where he is limited to reign forty two months, which is months of years, which amounteth to 1260 years; The end of which time shall be in the year 1666. as appeareth in the last verse of the thirteenth chapter, where the very period and final determination of Antichrist is laid down, in which year the destruction denounced against him shall fall on him.  
Quest. Shall there not be a restoration of the truth till the destruction of Antichrist?  
Answ. The truth hath begun to appear already, and still shall more and more; but the full restauration thereof shall not be till all the darkness of Antichrist be removed, and his destruction accomplished Revel. 11.11.  
Quest. Is not the truth fully known published, preached, and professed now at this time in those Kingdoms, where Antichrists power is abolished?  
Answ. No certainly much darkness still remains even amongst them and great confusion, which shall at that time be more fully discovered, and the truth made known, and errors and Heresies abolished by such whom the Lord shall raise up, in and about that time, and for that end.  
Quest. Are we not to expect the truth to be more fully discovered, then now it is, before the destruction of Antichrist.  
Answ. Yes assuredly for it is the light of the truth maintained by the Saints, which shall in a special manner abolish Antichrists darkness, and also shall be the greatest means of his destruction: for the people of God shall by the light of the truth more, fully discover his abominations, and cause the Princes of the earth to see how grossly they have been deluded and abused by him, and so they shall with one consent, set themselves against this great enemy of Christ to root him out and to execute the judgement that the Lord hath denounced against him, Revel. 19.11, 12, 13, 14, 15. Rev. 17.16.  
Quest. Shall the Church of God enjoy any great prosperity after the destruction of Antichrist?  
Answ. Yes certainly, for than they shall be freed from their great and violent oppressions, and have free liberty to profess and practise the whole will of God, and enjoy the communion and fellowship one of another, their inward graces shall be great, and excellent their love shall abound one towards another, continually rejoicing in the hope of that crown of glory, which is laid up for them in heaven, 4 Esdras 11.46. and chap. 12.34. 2 Tim. 4.8. Revel. 19.1.2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.  
Quest. Shall the whole Nation of the Jews be converted, and receive the Gospel of Christ, before the coming of the Lord to judgement?  
Answ. We hope many of them shall be called before that day; But that the whole Nation shall be called and receive the Gospel, we have no ground in Scripture so to think.  
Quest. But the Apostle in the eleventh chapter to the Romans seems to intent to prove that they shall all be called before the day of the Lord?  
Answ. Whosoever do so collect and gather from that chapter do misunderstand and misinterpret the Apostle, for his purpose is not to prove that all the Nation of the Jews shall be called to Christ, in the latter end of the world; but to show unto the Gentiles (lest they should wax proud against the Jews) that God had a people amongst the Jews, and that he had not cast them all away, but that he had a remnant according to the election of Grace, even amongst Abraham's natural seed, whom he would call, when it pleased him; many were called in Paul's time, and no doubt but many since that time, and we hope that yet there are many of them that belong to the Lord, which shall be called when the darkness of Antichrist is expelled, and the light of the truth appeareth and shineth by the Church, but we are not to expect any such general calling of them.  
Quest. Doth not the Apostle say in the 26th verse of that thapter, that all Israel shall be saved; Is not here therefore a sure ground to build upon, for their conversion to Christ?  
Ans. The Apostle there means by all Israel, all the elect of God, both Jews and Gentiles, and not only the Nation of the Jews, as may be proved by these Reasons;  
First, because the Apostle saith in the twenty fift verse that in part blindness, or hardness is happened unto Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles be come in which is even till the coming of the Lord to Judgement, as appeareth, Luke 21.24. Therefore by all Israel is not meant the Jews only but all the elect of the Jews, and of the Gentiles.  
Secondly, because the Promise of the deliverer in the Testimony of Esay alleged, by the Apostle, was made to the Elect Gentiles, as well as to the Elect Jews, and the elect Gentiles, reap the same benefit by the Deliverer; And this promise also pertains to none, but to the Elect of the Jews and Gentiles, not to all the carnal Jews, but only to the elect, the Spiritual seed of Abraham, consisting both of Jews and Gentiles; For the test do not reap this benefit, namely, to have their ungodliness turned away, Esay 59.20. Rom. 9.6.7.8. Rom. 2.28.29, Gal. 3.29.  
Thirdly, (by all Israel) cannot be meant, that in the latter days, all the Nation of the Jews shall be converted; Because this great calling, which is pretended to be, is not once mentioned in the book of the Revelation, and therefore not showed unto john, and yet he was taken up, and was promised to have shown unto him the things which should be hereafter, Revelation 4.1. But this great conversion of the Jews; he saw not, and yet he saw all things to the setting up of the new Jerusalem, in everlasting glory and beauty, therefore certainly we are not to expect any such matter, neither in this place doth the holy Ghost intent any such thing.  
Quest. But it may seem that this promise is made only to the jews, because is made to Jacob, and they only are the posterity and seed of Jacob?  
Answ. It is not made only to the natural Jews, for we are to know, that when any such special promise is made in Scripture, of turning away ungodliness, and taking away of sins from Israel or jacob, that promise is made and intended, as well to the Elect Gentiles, as to the Elect Jews, even to all Abraham's spiritual seed which are called by those names of Israel and jacob who although they be Gentiles in the flesh, yet indeed are Jews in Spirit and truth, Rom. 2.29. And abraham's, seed and Heirs according to the promise; Gal. 3.29.  
Quest. What then may be the mystery that the Apostle speaks of in the 25 verse of that eleventh chapter to the Romans?  
Answ. The mystery is Gods giving some up to hardness and blindness, and his giving Grace unto others, at the consideration whereof, the Apostle breaks forth into admiration in the 33 verse, saying, O the depth of the riches, both of the wisdom, and knowledge of God, how unsearchable are his judgements, and his ways past finding out, Rom. 11.33.34.35.36.  
Quest. But all the Prophets have prophesied of the return of Israel, and of his restouration, to such an excellent estate of glory and happiness and freedom from evil, as they never yet enjoyed, are we not now therefore to expect it in these latter days?  
Answ. Whatsoever the Prophets have prophesied to be fulfilled, and is not yet performed we are to expect; But we are to know that those special promises, are made only to the Elect, and to all the Elect, when they shall all be gathered together, and delivered from all their Captivities and sorrows, which Restauration of Israel is not to be expected of us to be performed until the coming of the Lord unto Judgement as appeareth, Acts 3.21.  
Quest. But the Prophets do speak of bringing them into their own Land again, even the promised land: therefore it must needs be in this life?  
Answ. That doth not follow, for they shall be brought into their own Land, and enjoy it for ever and ever, even that Land which was promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and all their spiritual seed, and they shall possess it for ever, not as it is now earthly and the curse remaining upon it, but after it shall be purged, and the curse taken away and made a heavenly habitation, fit for Abraham himself (to whom it was first promised, and never yet performed unto him, but shall be then made good unto him) and for all his spiritual seed to dwell in for evermore.  
Quest. But where this restoration is promised, there is mention made of Building of houses and planting of Vineyards, eating and drinking, etc. which cannot be after this life? Esay 65.  
Answ. We know not what is intended by such like things, nor what shall be at that day, nor what these things may add to our happiness; And therefore being ignorant of these things, let not us wrest the Scripture out of the way, to frame a meaning which the Lord never intended, because we imagine that these things cannot be after this life; And we are also to consider that in many places where this Restoration of Israel is promised there are also such things spoken of, as cannot be expected in this life, as namely, that there shall be no sorrow, no mourning, nor death, nor that any unclean thing shall enter amongst them.  
Quest. You said before that the Church of God after the destruction of the great Antichrist, should enjoy much prosperity and peace, shall they then have no enemies?  
Answ. Yes assuredly, the true Church of God shall never want enemies to try them, and to exercise their patience, but they shall be freed for a time, from those great and violent persecutions, which they did suffer, during the long and tedious Reign of the great Antichrist of Roma, who sought by all means, to root out all the seed and generation of the Church.  
Quest. Shall this their peace and prosperity long continue?  
Answ. No verily, for the devil shall stir up other enemies, Gog and Magog, the Kings of the East, even the Turk and his adherents, and they shall envy the prosperity of the Church and shall come down upon the Christian Nations, and compass about the Tents of the Saints, and the beloved City and to seek to root out her name from off the earth Ezek. 38.10.11.12. Revel. 20.8.9.  
Quest. What will be the effect of this his malice?  
Amsw. He shall cause through his cruelty many to fall away from the profession of the truth of Christ: to Mahometism or heathenism so that the Sun shall be darkened even Christ himself and his truth shall be obscured and his glory darkened.  
And the Moon, that is the States and princes of the world shall not give their light of help and comfort and protection of the church by their powers they being beaten down by the power of these great adversaries,  
And the stars &c. (that is the Ministers and preachers of Christ) shall fall from heaven that is, from the Church, even to Mahometism or heathenism, all which hath been foretold us by the Lordhimself in Matthew 24. verse 29,  
Quest. What shall follow thereupon?  
Answ. God himself will tied for his people wonderfully, and will consume and destroy all those enemies by fire from heaven, and deliver his Church from all her enemies Revel. 20.19.  
Quest. What are we further to expect to follow therepon?  
Answ. The speedy coming of the Lord to judgement.  
Quest. After what manner will be come?  
Answ. He shall come in the cloud's with majesty power and great glory, even with ten thousands of Angel; and Saints to the rejoicing and comfort of the god●… and the confounding of the wicked. jude ver. 14.  
Quest. What is the end of his coming?  
Answ. For the manifestation of his own glory in his Saints, and to deliver his Church and people from all their miseries and captivities and to regain his own Kingdom and to crown his Saints with eternal glory, and to execute his wrath and vengeance upon all those that have not known him, nor obeyed his Gospel Judas 15. ver. and this he will perform upon the general resurrection of all, and ●er the n iting of their souls and bodies together again.  
Quest. How will he effect this?  
Answ. He will cause his Angels to gather his elect together before him on his right hand to whom he will pronounce that comfortable sentence, saving come ye blessed of my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the beginning of the world, etc. Psal. 50. Matt. 2.31. Matth. 15.  
Quest. What shall become of the wicked and ungodly?  
Ans. They standing on his left hand, he will pronounce unto them a, heavy sentence, even the sentence of condemnation, saying unto them Depart from me ye cursed into everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels. Matth. 25.41.  
Quest. Shall the Reprobate blaspheme God after this life for the pains they shall endure?  
Answ. No assuredly they shall not, and far be it from us to have such a conceit in our minds for although they have done it here in this life too abundantly, yet then there shall be no man that shall open his mouth against the Lord, but shall acknowledge the judgement passed against him to be just and righteous, and so all shall be forced by pain to glorify the Lord God of heaven and earth for evermore, for all povers shall be brought into subjection to the Lord Christ, and none to resist him any more, 27. Psal. 8.46. Psal. 66.4. and 72.11. and 86.9. Dan. 7.27. 2 Esd. 9.12.13.14. Heb. 2.8.  
Quest When Christ hath passed the sentence of judgement both to the Saints, and to the ungodly, will he return again into heaven?  
Answ. We never read in all the Scriptures of his return, for he comes thither to possess his own Kiugdom, and to fit upon the throne of David for evermore, reigning over his people in all majesty and glory in his own throne. Re. 3.21.  
Quest. Shall then the happiness and glory of the Saints be upon this earth?  
Answ. Yes certainly, but not as it is now corrupt but When all things that came in by reason of the curse for man's sin, shall be removed and taken away quite, and all things be made new, for nothing that came in with the curse can abide there where Christ hath his Kingdom and throne of glory.  
Quest. But the Apostle Peter saith 2 Pet. 3.10. that the Earth and the works there shall be burnt up, and all things here below shall be dissolved?  
Answ. True it is that whatsoever came in with the Curse shall be dissolved and burnt up, and all taken away, and nothing thereof shall remain, but only what was created before the curse, and all things shall be made new, as in the first crearion of them and far more excellent and durable as the same Apostle saith we look for net heavers and a new earth, according to his promise wherein dwelleth righteousness.  
Quest. Where is this promise made that the Apostle speaks of?  
Answ. In the 65. Chapter of Isaiah where the promise is made and set down in plain words.  
Quest. But shall not the happiness of the Saints be for ever in heaven for the Apostle Peter saith, that the inheritance of the Saints is reserved in heaven and Paul saith, we have an house not made with hands, but eternal in the heavens. 1 Pet. 14. 2 Cor. 5.1.  
Answ. True it is, that the inheritance of the Saints is reserved in heaven, and it is eternal, but this that is reserved in heaven, shall come down from heaven Christ himself will bring with him that new jerusalem and  his saints with that house which is from heaven which was so desired by the Apostle Paul 2 Cor. 5.2. the beauty and glory of that estate is set forth in the 21 chapter of the Revelation which shall be so great that the heart of man can desire no more, for there shall be a fullness of all things.  
Quest. But what places of Scripture do prove that the Saints shall have their glory and happiness upon this earth?  
Answ. There are many places of Scripture to this purpose and I will instance some of them; and first I will begin with the promise of God made unto Abraham concerning the land of Canaan, it was promised to him and to his seed for ever. Gen. 13.15. Chap. 15.17. But Abraham never yet enjoyed the fulfilling of that promise, therefore at that great day of the Lord, it shall be made good unto him and his seed for ever, for it was given unto him for an everlasting possession. Gen. 7.18.  
Quest. But Abraham seed after four hundred years did possess that land, was not then the promise fulfilled to Abraham?  
Answ. No assuredly there was a further extent in that promise than was performed unto his natural seed, and that was but a type of the great possession that should be given to him and his spiritual seed for ever. Gen. 17.8.  
Quest. What is the next Scripture that proves the Saints eternal happiness to be on this earth.  
An. The next is Matth. 5.5. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth, and Psal. 37.11. But the meek shall inherit the earth, and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. Which promises must needs be understood of the life to come and not of this life for they are promises for the time to come, and not of the time present, for we know by experience that the meek do not now in this life inherit the earth; but this promise shall be performed unto them at that great day of the restauration of all things.  
Quest. What is the next Scripture to prove this?  
Answ. The next is Revelation the 5. and the 10. ver. the sweet song of thanksgiving of the 24 Elders, the latter part whereof is their acknowledgement in these words and hast made unto us our God Kings and priests and we shall reign on the earth; which is spoken of the time to come and not of the time present, for now is not their time of reigning but of suffering.  
Quest. What other Scripture is there to prove this point?  
Answ. Out of the 11 chap. of the Revelation ver. the 15. where after the sounding of the seventh trumpet there were great voices heard in heaven, saying. The Kingdoms of this world are become the Kingdoms of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign for ever and ever, as also Dan. 7.14.27. So that then Christ shall reign as King upon this earth, and all powers shall serve and obey him for evermore.  
Quest. But if the Saint's glory and happiness shall be upon this earth it will be conceived that it cannot be so great, glorious and excellent as is expected to be, and as the Scripture sets it forth to be, and for the most part of our preachers they do tell us that it shall be in the highest heavens?  
Answ. For the happiness and felicity of the Saints which they enjoy, it shall be so great so glorious, so excellent, although upon this earth as possible may be no heart can desire more, nor no tongue can express it, for that place must be very full of joy, comfort, blessedness, and happiness, where Christ dwells, and is their King, what can be wanting unto them? there is fullness of joy at his right hand, and pleasures for evermore. O what sweetness of comfort shall they find in his presence. yea unspeakable; the Scriptures are plentiful in expressing, these things for the comfort of the faithful, even whilst they live here in this natural life, who do live by faith expecting those good things to come, and whatsoever our Preachers do tell us of the happiness of the saints to be for ever in the highest heavens; if they did well consider the Scriptures they would speak according therereunto.  
Quest. But what is the reason they conceive so, that the glory and happiness of the Saints shall be in the highest heavens?  
Answ. I know no Scripture that tends there unto, besides those I have already answered or some such it may be like them, but their error and misunderstanding of the Scripture lies in this, that they take and expound those places of Scripture that intent and set forth the happiness of the Saints for ever, to be intended and meant of a great conversion of the natural Jews to be brought into the land of Canaan again before the coming of Christ to Judgement which opinion turns them from the truth, and hereby the Saints are deprived of many sweet promises that are made unto them for their comfort here in this life in the expectation of that glory and happiness therein set forth, and promised unto them then which a greater wrong cannot be done to the people of God.  
Quest. You said the Scriptures are plentiful in expressing the happiness of the Saints for ever upon this earth, I pray you give me those places of Scriptures, and set down the several texts, that we may examine them and rejoice in the expectation of them and so I shall conclude for this time and cease from demanding any more questions of you.  
Answ. I shall willingly do it according to my abi ity, but yet it is not possible for me to find out all those sweet promises contained in the Scriptures yet as many as I can call to mind for the present I will set down, that hereafter we may read them and take comfort in them, and live by faith in the hope and expectation of them, and the Lord enlighten our understandings in the knowledge of his truth, and give us hearts to obey the truth made known unto us, that God may be glorified by us, through Jesus Christ, by the assistance of the Holy Ghost to whom be all praise, glory, and honour, for ever Amen.  
The places of Scripture are these following, But for your better understanding of them, I pray you consider the words of the Holy Ghost by Saint Peter, in the 3 of the Acts verse 21. in these words, speaking there of Jesus Christ whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began, so that you may observe hence that this restitution or restauration must not be till the second coming of Christ and then it shall be and it is that which all the Prophets have spoken of, and if these places of Scripture here following do not intent this great restitution, then let them who are contrary minded show us where it is spoken of in the Scriptures, if they will needs have us to understand these Scriptures to intent the great conversion of the natural Jews, now in the latter end of the world, and before the coming of Christ to Judgement; a doctrine never intended or meant by the Holy Ghost for this restitution is not to be till the second coming of Christ, Act, 3, 19.20, 21. And so I may now leave you to the reading of the Scriptures here following, the Lord give us wisdom to understand them aright, and to find and feel the comfort of them, for they belong to all Abraham's spiritual seed, as well Gentiles as Jews, and not to the natural Jew, except he be also a Jew inward. Rom. 2.28.29.  
Gen. 13 Chapter 14, 15, 16. verses and Chapter 15.8. and Chap. 17.8. and Chap. 26.3.4. and Chap. 28.4.13.14.  
2 Chron. 16.30.31, 32, 33. and Chapter 17.9.11, 12, 13, 14.27.  
Psalm 8. compared with Heb. 2.  
Psalm 14.7. and Psalm 15.1. and Psal. 37.9.10, 11.29. Psal. 45.6.16.  
Psalm 48. Psalm 87.3. and Psal. 89.3.4.15, 16.17. etc. Psal. 96.9, 10, 11, 12.13. Psal. 98. Psal. 132.11, 12. etc. Esay 11. compared with Romans the 8.19.20. Esay 25.6, 7, 8, 9  
Esay 27.13. and Esay 55.12.13. and Chapter 60.14.15. etc. Esay 61.4 5, 6, 7. and Esay 62.1.2, 3, 4.5, 7, 8. and chap. 65.9.10.14, 15. etc. Esa. 66.5.7, 8. and so to the end of the Chapter.  
jeremy 3.16, 17, 18. and Chapter 23.5 6.7, 8. and jeremy 30.9, 10. and Chap. 31.35.36. and Chap. 33.15, 16, 17, to the end of the chapter, jeremy 46.27, 28. Ezekiel 28.24.25.26. Ezek. 34.11, 12.13, 14, 15, 16.23, 24. to the ' end of the Chapter.  
Chapter. Ezek. 36. read the whole chapter, and also the 37 chapter. Ezek 9.25. to the end of the chapter.  
Daniel 2.44 45. and chapter 7.14.27. and chapter 12.1, 2, 3.13.  
Hosea 2.14. to the end of the chapter.  
Joel 3.1, 3.12.16, 17, 18.20.21.  
Amos 9.11. to the end of the chapter.  
Haggai 2.6 7 8 9  
Zechariah 6.12, 13. and chapter 12.8. and chapter 14.4. read to the end of the chapter.  
Matthew 5.5. Acts 2.19, 20, 21. Rom. 8, 9.20. and 1 Cor. 2.9. and 2 Thes. 1.7.8. and 2 Pet. 3.13. Hebrews. 4.9. read the whole Chapter Revelation 3.12.21. and Chapter 5.10. and chapter 7.15 16 17. and chap. 11.15, 16, 17, 18. and chapter 21. but read the whole chapter, and also the 22. chapter.  
The Prophet Esay is wonderful excellent in expressing the happiness of the Saints for ever and therefore to these former places set down, I also add these places following,  
Esay 32.15 16 17 18 19 and chapter 33.15, 16, 17.20 21.22.24. and chapter 35. read the whole chapter, and Esay the 45.17, 18, 19 Esay 49.9, 10.11, 12, 13.   

CChristian Reader it may be thought that I have not been so large in this last matter concerning the happiness of the Saints in glory for ever with Christ their Lord and King upon this earth as the matter required, and therefore for thy more full satisfaction in the same I refer thee to a book called the land of promise and the covenant thereof printed 1641 for John Wright the younger in the old Bailie, wherein this thing is fully manifested it being the subject matter of the whole book and proved by many places of Scripture, for indeed the Scriptures are very plentiful in this thing, it being that which God chief intended from all eternity it being the rest of God, wherein he always took delight and pleasure, the setting up of the Kingdom of his Son Christ, and his dwelling with the Sons of men his Saints for evermore, even the full perfection of all his works which he intended from everlasting.  
Revel. 11.15. And the seventh Angel sounded, and there were great voices in heaven, saying, the kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ, and he shall reign for ever and ever.  
Revel. 21.3. Behold the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.  
revelation 22.3, 4, 5. verses, And there shall be no more curse, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and his servants shall serve him, and they shall see his face, and his name shall be in their foreheads.  
And there shall be no night there, and they need no candle, neither light of the Sun, for the Lord God giveth them light, and they shall reign for ever and ever.  
Christian reader, for thy further information in this point, I refer thee also to two other books th' one called the holy rest of God printed for John Wright the younger, in the old Bailie 1641. the other called the two olive trees, or the Lords two anointed ones, etc. being an exposition of the 11 Chapter of the revelation printed by Matthew Simmons 1645. in these two books this point is largely set forth against the millenaries of these times, thus desiring thy furtherance in the truth, I commend thee to the grace of God.  
I A.  
FINIS.