A FAMILIAR AND CHRISTIAN INSTRVCTION. Containing a collection of diverse and sundry places of Scripture, serving for an exposition vpon the lords prayer, the creed, the ten commandments, the Sacraments, together with the offices and duties of each Christian towards another. Translated out of the french by G. C. Imprinted at London by Thomas Vautrollier, for Andrew Maunsell, and are to be sold at his shop at the west end of Paules. 1582. TO THE counsel, M. NICHOLAS CAPELIN E. R. wisheth all maner of happiness in the Lord. THis translation( worshipful Sir) liynge long in obscurîty, which might, ere this, haue benefited many, had it been brought to light: a thing which I instantlye, for that cause, desired: to bring the same to pass, by earnest entreaty, I obtained it as a gift of your son my very friend, concealing my intent& purpose, from him. Since which time, being more and more pricked forward as well by my first motion: as by other my friends persuasion, that had the sight therof: I was urged, for this and other reasons, to commit the same to the Printer: that by the publishinge thereof, each Christian reader,( for whose sake, the godly author, whosoever he was, did first set it forth in french) might receive such profitable, and comfortable instructions, as are therein contained. And because that it is a usual thing amongst many,( whereof some do it for a custom, some in hope of commodity,& some of mere affection) to dedicate such labours to special patrons: considering with myself that your fatherly deserts towards him, who haue been the only author of all whatsoever he hath, did claim the same: I should haue done great injury to him, and you both, if I had commended it to the patronage of any other, then to your worship, to whom no man can be more bound, then he is: for indeed the benefits of the parents to the child do pass all other. Thus beseeching god to grant him such success in all his studies, as may be to his glory;& your worship like increase, of all spiritual and temporal blessings: do humbly commit you to his heavenly protection. Your worships ever. E. R. Oxon. the XVI. of november. 1581 The Translator to the Christian Reader. THis treatise and familiar instruction translated out of the french, for mine own private exercise only: being by my friends, against my will diuulgated: I am to request thee( gentle Reader) friendly to accept the same. Which as it is brief, and short: so is it sweet& comfortable: containing a faithful, and true exposition of the chiefest points of the pure, ancient, and Christian religion: set down in such maner, that the simplo,& ruder sort, may easily understand, and bear it away. So that it should seem in very deed, that for them it was first framed by the author himself, as having an especial care of them. As for the learned, and skilful, they haue far better, and greater helps,& therefore less need it: yet may they profit themselves somewhat, if they will vouchsafe to look so low, and consider the compendious, true, and right way of exposition therein used. For they shall see how one place of scripture is expounded by the other: the hidden and dark, by the more manifest, and clear: and every article so fully confirmed by the testimonies of Gods word, that we need not once doubt, or stagger in the principles of our faith, which ought to be firm& steadfast, being grounded, and built on so good, and sure a foundation. But the intent and purpose of the author,( as I said,) was chiefly to benefit, and pleasure by this his pains, the ignorant, unlearned, and poorer sort, and therefore laboured to be short, and plain. Short, partly least it should deter the most part from reading of it, which are soon weary of well doing: partly also that the volume being but small, they might the rather be induced to buy the same. Thus labouring to be brief, notwithstanding he hath so well tempered his style, that he is not obscure:& endeavouring to be plain, he is not over tedious: which should not seem so easy a thing, seeing that the most part in writing do herein offend. wherefore( gentle reader) I doubt not but thou wilt give him thanks, which hath taken this pains for thy profit, and hath shewed thee so ready away to the attaining of all spiritual knowledge, and understanding in heavenly wisdome. Thus wishing thee so to red, and regard the same, that having an earnest desire to practise that in thy works, which here is taught thee in words: and to seek for those things which are most necessary, and needful for the leading of a good& godly life: God may so guide thee in this world by his grace: that thou maiest in the world to come be partaker of his glory. Thine in the Lord, G. C. E. R. To the friendly Reader THe greater part of those, that take some pains, books to translate: ( the work of foreign quill) Do seek so much to please mens wanton veins: That for one good, you shall see twenty ill. If any fond french fancy come in place, Proceeding from some lewd, and peevish brain: To english print forsooth, it posts apace Such is the greedy thirst, of wicked game. Italian toys, are had in so great price, If once they chance to light vpon our land: And every other countries brave device: For pleasure penned, that strait they go in hand. The glorious title and the gallant hue, Greatly doth move the most, to buy the same: Thus do they set their madness forth to view, And look for laud, deserving rather shane. The rotten dross, is more esteemed then gold, And filthy dregs, preferred before pure wine: To godly writers, goodwill now is could: Let priests translate them, I am no divine. ●hus do they prate: and( which is worst of all) backbite the best, who better spend their time, But let not barking zoilus you appalle, The bad, will ever, at the good repined. seek out such books, as this, for to translate, Which guide the way, up to the starry sky, And show, the duties, plain, of each estate, Rich, poor, young, old, and all, may learn thereby. He that did this, doth no reward expect, But onely craves, the readers curteouslie, With willing heart, and mind it to accept: That grant, or else you do him injury. Crux Christi, scala coeli. A FAMILIAR AND CHRISTIAN instruction. forasmuch as the lords prayer, the belief, called the Apostles creed,& the ten commandments given unto Moses in two tables of ston, containing the whole sum of all that we ought to pray for, beleeue, do, or leave undone, we thought it not amiss to set them here down in order, according unto their form and tenor, before we proceed in the exposition of each of thē, which we will afterward divide by articles, opening and declaring every one of them apart, with some necessary and profitable additions, as briefly as we may: so that by these means the reader may the better understand and bear in mind the matter& contents of those things which in this little collection, shalbe handled more at large. THE lords PRAYER. our father which arte in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, in earth as it is in heaven: The three first articles do command us to haue the onely glory of God before our eyes in all our prayers and petitions. give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive them that trespass against us: and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. These three last articles do desire of God those things which do preserve in this life; and help our necessities, to the end that his glory might so much the more shine in vs. THE APOSTLES creed. I Beleeue in God the father almighty, maker of heaven and earth. The Christian man believeth that there is one onely God, invisible, everlasting, eternal, without beginning or end: almighty, wholly wise, wholly good, wholly just, wholly merciful, and wholly perfect, creator of all creatures. And in Iesus Christ his onely son our Lord: All the partes of our salvation are comprehended and comprised in Iesus Christ. If we seek for salvation, the onely name of Iesus doth tech us that it is in him. If we desire the gifts of the holy Ghost we shal find them in his unction, if we seek for strength, it is in his Lordship. Who was conceived by the holy Ghost, born of the virgin Mary. Yf we would find meekness, and gentleness, his nativity doth offer it unto us, by the which he was made like unto us,( sin only excepted) to learn to be pitiful. suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead and butted: he descended into hell. In his condemnation we haue our absolution: in his cross, our curse is wiped out: and the satisfaction we haue in his sacrifice: and purging in his blood. The mortification of our flesh, doth consist in his sepulchre: and our reconciliation, in his descension into hell. He rose again the third day from death: The newenesse of life doth consist in his resurrection,& hope of immortality. He ascended into heaven,& sitteth on the right hand of God the father almighty: By his ascention, the heavenly heritage is assured us, if we seek for help and comfort, and the abundance of all richesse, we haue it in his kingdom. And from thence he shall come to judge the quick& the dead. Yf we desire to wait for the iudgement in safety, we haue this good turn, inasmuch as he himself is our judge. I beleeue in the holy Ghost, the holy catholic church: the Communion of saints: the forgiveness of sins: the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. In sum, sith that the treasures of all richesse, are in Iesus Christ, we must draw them from thence that we may be replenished& refreshed and not from elsewhere. THE TEN COMMAVNDEMENTES. The first table. harken and take heed Israell: I am the lord thy God, which brought thee out of the land of egypt out of the house of bondage. Thou shalt haue none other Gods before me. He would that all impiety and superstition being put aside and separated far from us, we should honour him with a true and sincere love of godliness. Thou shalt make thee no graven image nor the likeness of any thing either in heaven above, or in the earth heneath, or in the waters under the earth: thou shalt not bow down to thē nor worship them: for I am the Lord thy God a jealous God visiting the sins of the fathers vpon their children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me: and do show mercy unto two thousand generations of them that love me and keep my commandments. In withdraweinge us from all carnal actions he leadeth us unto the right service due unto him, to wit spiritual, and that which he himself hath ordained. Thou shalt not take the name of the lord thy God in vain: for he will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. hereby he would haue the majesty of his name to be sanctified& hallowed of us& not profaned through contempt or want of due reverence Remember to keep holy the sabbath day, six daies shalt thou labour, and do all thy work, but the seventh day is the rest of the Lord thy God: thou shalt do no work in it, nether thou nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy servant, nor thy handemayde, nor thine ox, nor thine ass, nor the stranger that is within thy gates: for in six dayes the Lord made heaven and earth; and all that is in them, and the seventh day he restend: wherefore he hath blessed the day of rest, and hath made it holy to himself. The end and scope of this commandment is, that we being dead unto our own affections and works, should meditate on the kingdom of God, and exercise ourselves therein according to the means which he hath, ordained and appointed. THE SECOND TABLE. HOnour thy father and thy mother that thy dayes may be long upon the earth which the lord thy God hath given thee. By this he would that the orders& degrees which he hath constituted, be kept and observed: in doing due reverence unto those which he hath ordained superiors. Thou shalt do no murder. He forbiddeth all violence, injury, and hurt, by the which the bodies of our neighbours are harmed. Thou shalt not commit adultery. That we be not polluted with any filthiness or inordinate lust of the flesh. Thou shalt not steal. He forbiddethe us to scrape unto ourselves our neighbours goods: knowing that whatsoever any one doth possess, it is not by hap-hazard, but by the disposinge& distribution of our sovereign Lord and master. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. He will that wee keep the truth without dissembling, that we do not hurt the good name and renown of any man: either by malicious detractions or false reports: or that we should endamage any one in his substance and goods by lying and evil dealing. Thou shalt not couuet thy neighbours house: thou shalt not couuet thy neighbours wife, nor his servant, nor his maid, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing which is his. He would not haue any thought in our mind to move our harts to concupiscence, which might bring any detrement or damage to our neighbour. CONCERNING PRAYR. This foundation and ground being laid, that sith we are so corrupted that we can not so much as think a good thought, if God do not give it unto us: and seeing that he hath promised to give us whatsoever we shall desire and ask of him in his sons name, we will begine with the Lords prayer: but before the exposition and handling thereof, we will entreat of certain points very profitable and necessary to be known, afore we can rightly make our prayers, whereof the first shalbe THAT WE OVGHT to pray. Luke. 18.1. We ought always to pray& not to be weary. Luke. 21.36. wretch therefore and pray continually, that thou may be worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and that ye may stand before the son of man. Luke. 22.40. Pray least ye enter into temptation. Ephes. 6.18. And pray always with all manner of prayer and supplication in the spirit and watch thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all Saincts. 19. And for me that vttoraunce may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly to publish the secret of the gospel, 20. Whereof I am the ambassador in bonds, that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. Colos. 4.2. Continue in prayer,& watch in the same with thanks giuing. 3. Praiing also for us, that God may open unto us, the door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ: wherefore I am also in bonds. 1. Thes. 5.17. pray continually. 18. In all things give thankes for this is the will of God in Christ Iesus toward you. 1. Timoth. 2.1. I exhort therefore, that first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giuing of thankes be made for all men. 2. For kings& for all that are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life, in all godliness and honesty. james. 5.13. Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing. 14. Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the Church, and let them pray for him, and anointe him with oil in the name of the lord. Item. 15.& 16. 1. Pet. 4.7. now the end of all things is at hand: Be ye therefore sober and watch in prayer, Besides the express commandment that we haue to pray unto God, the miserable estate and condition wherein we are, ought to solicit and provoke us thereunto: being oppressed with so many necessities, poverties, miseries, and wrapped& even overwhelmed with so many evils and so many misfortunes, one every side environed with innumerable assaults, in danger of many perils, and having at our feet many and infinite dangers, which Satan doth lay before vs. In such a captivity, alas! what can we do but cry and call on him which therein can help us? we, we I say, which are very frail, and on every side environed& beset with infirmities? moreover although there were no Satan, nor any other enemy to wage war and battle against us,& albeit we of ourselves could remedy all our temporal necessities and surmount all the assaults which may happen unto us in this world: Notwithstanding we are sold under sin, that is, as slaves and bondmen we are tied unto sin, governed, lead, and conducted by her domination. In such sort, that all our mind, all our hart, all our thoughts& cogitations, all our affections and operations, are wholly addicted to sin and iniquity, we are not sufficient of ability to think any thing of ourselves, as of ourselves, but all our sufficiency& ability is of God for it is God that doth cause in us both the will and the deed according unto his good pleasure: for I do not approve that which I do sith I do not that which I would, but that I hate. The reward of sin is death, and the sting of death is sin, that is, through our sins we offend and stir up God against us, we provoke his wrath& indignation, yea his curse and malediction, and o●r eternal damnation. What else therfore remaineth unto us, but stil to be in sin and death, unless he which is our sufficiency and ability which can give unto us both the will and the accomplishment therof and to whom it only belongeth to pardon sins unless he I say be sauourable and through his gracecious goodness be merciful unto us? we ought therefore to pray, that of his mercy he would pardon and forgive us our sins, withholding the hand of his iustice and anger which we haue well deserved, and that through his power he would deliver us from the hand of the divell, in taming our flesh and our evil affections,& that of his bountifulness and liberality he would give us all things necessary. TO ONE GOD. Exo. 20.3. Deut. 5.7. Thou shalt haue no other Gods before me. Deut. 4 29. But if from thence thou shalt seek the Lord thy God, thou shalt find him if thou seek him with all thine hart, and with all thy soul. Deut. 6.12. Beware lest thou forget the Lord which brought the out of the land of Egypt out of the house of bondage. 13. Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name. 14. Ye shall not walk after other Gods, after any of the Gods of the people that are round about you. 15. ( For the Lord thy God, is a jealous God among you) least the wrath of the Lord thy God be kindled against thee, and destroy thee from the face of the earth. 1. King 9, 6. But if ye and your children turn away from me, and will not keep my commandments,& my statutes( which I haue set before you) but go and serve other Gods, and worship them. 7. Then will I cut of Israell from the land. 2. Kings. 1.16. And he said unto him, thus saith the lord, because thou hast sent messengers to inquire of beelzebub the God of Ekron( was it not because there was no God in Israell to inquire of his word) therefore thou shalt not come down of thy bed, on which thou arte gone up, but shalt die the death. Esa. 45.21. Am not I the Lord? and there is none other God beside me, a just God and a saviour, there is none beside me. 22. look unto me, and ye shalbe saved: all the ends of the earth shalbe saved: For I am God& there is none other. 23. I haue sworn by myself: The word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness and shalt not return: That every knee shall bow unto me& every tongue shall sweere by me. Ierem. 17.5. Thus saith the lord, cursed be the man, that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and withdraweth his hart from the Lord. 7. Blessed be the man that trusteth in the Lord and whose hope the lord is. Math. 4.10. avoid Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the lord thy God, and him onely shalt thou serve. When the holy Scripture forbiddeth us, to pray and to call vpon any other, but vpon one only God, we must not simply understand that we ought not to make our request but to God only: for we read that requests haue oftentimes been made to men. But it must be understood of prayer, which is made to him, unto whom we haue our recourse, as unto our onely hope, and as unto him which is author of all goodness, and which hath al power: that which can not be given or attributed to any other but to God alone, without manifest sacrelege. now when we request men it is far after an other sort: for it is onely as the instruments& servants of God to whom he hath given power and the means to help vs. The which ought well to be marked in all prayers made to creatures lest that thinking to be religious we become superstitious in overshadowing& darkening the glory of God. above all we ought to take heed lest we fall into the error of the papists and pagans, which do well confess that which now we speak of, and in the mean time do bring in the invocation of the dead, covering and clokinge themselves with their distinction, to wit, that they do not call on thē as on the sovereign Lord, for they leave to God( say they) his soueraignitie: But it is a thing most sure and certain that their imagination is joined with Idolatry, forasmuch as they do transport the glory of God alone to many: And to this purpose ought the examples of the holy Patriarkes, Prophets, and Apostles to serve for us which never did once call vpon Adam, or Abell, or Enoch, or Noe, or Abraham, or isaac, or jacob, or any of their predecessors, but God onely. And the holy scripture maketh no mention but that the invocations or supplications at any time were addressed to God alone. And hereunto also maketh the example and doctrine of our Lord Iesus Christ, the example: for he never cried but to his father. The doctrine: for giuing us the form& manner of prayer, he doth teach us to address ourselves to his father alone: When ye shall pray, ye shall say, Our father &c. But if that wee might address ourselves unto the dead, he ought, for distinctions sake to say, when ye shall pray to God, or, &c. yea shall say &c. In that he hath not set down any distinction of prayers, either he was not well advised( which is most detestable blasphemy:) or else he doth sufficiently show that none other ought to be called vpon but God alone. FOR IT IS TO do him honour and service, Psal. 50.14. Offer unto God praise, and pay thy vows unto the most high. 15. And call vpon me in the day of trouble, so will I deliver thee and thou shalt glorify me. Psal. 116.12. What shall I render unto the Lord for his benefits towards me? I will take the cup of salvation and call upon the name of the Lord. Because in praying unto God, besides that we do acknowledge our infirmities, we confess also that he is almighty, able to help and succour vs. The which confession God doth more esteem then all sacrifices, and doth prefer it before all other honours which we can do unto him. He therefore that calleth not vpon God, doth spoil and rob God of the honour& glory which is due unto him. without OPINION of our own righteousness. Psal. 34.18. The lord is near unto them that are of a contrite hart, and will save such as be afflicted in spirit. Psal. 51.17. The sacrifices of God are a contrite spirit. a contrite and a broken hart, O God thou wilt not despise. Psal. 7.9.8. Remember not against us the former iniquities, but make hast and let thy tender mercies prevent us: for we are in great misery. 9. help us, O God of our salvation for the glory of thy name, and deliver us, and be merciful unto our sins for thy name sake. Esa. 57.15. For thus saith he, that is high and excellent, he that inhabiteth the eternity, whose name is the holy one, I dwell in the high and holy place with him also which is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble,& to give life to them that are of a contrit heart. Esa. 66.2. For all these things hath my hand made, and all these things haue been, saith the lord: and to him will I look, even to him that is poorer, and of a contrite spirit and trembleth at my words. Daniel. 9.18. O my God, incline thine e●re and hear: open thine eyes and behold our desolations, and the city whereupon thy name is called: for we not present our supplications before thee of our own righteousness, but of thy great tender mercies. 1. Pet. 5.5. Likewise ye yongers, subsubmit yourselves unto the elders, and submit yourselves every man, one to an other: deck yourselves inwardly in lowliness of mind: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble 6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. 7. Cast all your care on him: for he careth for you. but IN THE NAME of his son Iesus Christ. Mat. 18.19 again, verily I say unto you, that if two of you shal agree in earth vpon any thing, whatsoever they shal desire it shall be given them of my father which is in heaven. 20. For where two or three are gathered together in my name there am I in the midst of them. john. 14.13. And whatsoever ye ask in my name, that will I do, that the father may be glorified in the son. 14. If ye shall ask any thing in my name I will do it. joh 16.23. verily, verily, I say unto you, whatsoever ye shall ask the father in my name he will give it you. Rom. 1.8. First I thank my God through Christ for you all, because your faith is published throughout the whole world. Ephes. 3.12. By whom we haue boldness, and entrance with confidence by faith in him. 5.20. Giuing thankes all ways for all things to God even the father, in the Name of our lord Iesus Christ. Heb. 7.25. Wherefore, he is able also perfectly to save them that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth, to make intercession for them. Item. 13.15. Let us therefore by him offer the sacrifice of praise always to God, that is the fruit of the lips, which confess his name FOR HE IS our mediator. Rom. 8.3.4. Who shall condeme it is Christ which is dead, yea or rather, which is risen again, who is also at the right hand of God, and maketh request also for vs. 1. Timoth. 2.5. For there is one God and on mediator between God and man, which is the man Christ Iesus. 6. Who gave himself a ransom for all men, to be a testimony in due time. Heb. 9.15. And for this cause he 〈◇〉 the mediatoure of the new testament, that through death, which was for the redemption of the transgressions that were in the former testament, they which were called, might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. Item 2.24. For Christ is not entred into the holy places that are made with hands, which are similitudes of the true sanctuary: But is entred into very heaven to appear now in the sight of God for vs. 1. John. 2.1. And if any man sin we haue an advocate with the father, Iesus Christ the just. 2. And he is the reconciliation for our sins, and not for ours onely, but also for the sinners of the whole world. Then do we pray in the name of Iesus Christ when as we lay aside all opinion of righteousness and worthiness, and do aclowledge our own unworthiness, we do poure out our prayers vpon the onely merit of the death and passion of our Lord Iesus Christ, and vpon the intercession which he now maketh in heaven for us, having pierced the heauens, sitting at the right hand of God his father, appearing always in his sight for us, not utterly to destroy and lose us, nor to provoke God against us, but to appease him, to excuse us, to save us, and to cause us to obtain that, which we desire of him. For seing all men are unworthy to come before God and to present themselves before his face: to the end that he might lift us out of that confusion, which we haue or should haue in ourselves, the father of heaven hath given his onely son our Lord, to be a mediator& advocate towards him, by whose conduction we might frankelie and freely approach unto him, being assured, forasmuch as we haue such an intercessor which in nothing can be refused of the father,& also that nothing shall bee denied us of all that we shall ask in his name. And that the throne of God, is not only the throne of majesty, but also of grace: Before the which we may in the name of such a mediator and intercessor appear with all confidence and boldness, for to obtain mercy,& to find grace and help, and all that which is necessary& needful for vs. Wherefore as it is commanded us to ca●● vpon God, and the promise is given unto those which shal call vpon him that they shalbe heard, so is it also expressly commanded us to call vpon God in the name of our Lord Iesus Christ. IN FAITH. Psal. 22.4. Our fathers trusted in thee: they trusted and thou didst deliver them. 5. They called vpon thee and were delivered, they trusted in them and were not confounded. Math. 21.22. And whatsoever ye ask in prayer, if ye beleeue, ye shall receive it. mark 11.24. Therefore I say unto you, whatsoever ye desire when ye pray, beleeue that ye shall haue it, and it shall be done unto you. Rom. 10.13. For whosoever shall call vpon the name of the Lord shall be saved. 14. But how shall they call upon him, in whom they haue not believed? and how shall they beleeue in him, of whom they haue not heard? and howe shall they hear without a preacher? Rom. 14.13. And whatsoever is not of faith is sin. Ephes. 5.3.12. By whom we haue boldness& entrance with confidence by faith in him. Hebr. 4.16. Let us therefore go boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy& find grace to help in time of need. Hebr. 10.22. Let us draw near with a true heart in assurance of faith, sprinkled in our heartes from an evil conscience, and washed in our bodies with pure water. Ia. 1.5. If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask it of God, which giveth to all men liberally and reproacheth no man, and it shall be given him. 6. But let him ask in faith and waver not: for he that wavereth is like the wave of the sea, tossed of the wind and carried away. These places, and above all that of S. james, doth show sufficiently what it is To pray in faith, and waver not( saith he) It is then with a full confidence and sureness that wee ought to call vpon God: for that we may call vpon him we must be assured of his bounty and goodness, and be resolved that he will be fau●u●abl● and merciful unto 〈◇〉, and that he will give us that which we shall ask of him. And not without a cause that assurance is required: for he which doubteth, doth double injury to God. First he holdeth not for a certainty that God is wholly good. secondarily he accounteth him not true in his promises. For if he be good, we ought not to doubt that he will give us that, which is necessary and expedient. If he be true he will keep his promise. But he hath promised that he will hear us: then without open and manifest injury we cannot doubt but that he will hear us in our prayers. They do also wrong to Iesus Christ, for as much as they do put in doubt whether he hath fully reconciled us to God his father, and hath brought us into his favour and grace. For if we be wholly reconciled unto him, and the peace be made, how will he refuse us in our requests? Or if he refuse us, how shall we be throughly at accord with him? But forasmuch as the reconciliation is perfect and whole, he will not refuse us: and as for us, he hath herein fully resolved vs. WE OVGHT TO PRAY with heart. Deut. 4.29. But if from thence thou shalt seek the Lord thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thine heart, and with all thy soul. 1. Sam. 17.7. But the Lord said unto samuel, look not vpon his countenance, nor on the hight of his stature, because I haue refused him: for God seeth not as man seeth: for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord beholdeth the heart Isaias. 29.13. Therefore the lord said. Because this people come near unto me with their mouth, and honour me with their lips, but haue removed their heartes far from me, and their fear towards me was taught by the precepts of men. John. 4.13. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the father in spirit and truth, for the father requireth even such to worship him. 1. Cor. 14.15. What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, but I will pray also with understanding. I will sing with the spirit, but I will sing with understanding also. SO THAT IT BE NOT in an unknown tongue. 1. Cor. 14 14. For if I pray in a strange tongue, my spirit prayeth: but mine understanding is without fruit. 15. what is it then? I will pray. &c. AND WITH LOVE AND charity. Isa. 58.7. Is it not to deal thy bread unto the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that wander, unto thine houses When thou seest the naked, that thou cover him, and hid not thyself from thine own flesh. It is thy neighbour for in him thou seest thyself as in a glass. 8. Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall grow speedily: thy righteousness shall go before thee, and the glory of the Lord shall embrace thee. 9. Then shalt thou call and the Lord shall answer: thou shalt cry, and he shall say here I am. Mat. 5.23. If then thou bring thy gift to the alter, and there remembrest, that thy brother hath ought against thee: leave there thine offering before the alter, and go thy way: first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. Item 6.12. forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our debtoures. mark 11.25. But when ye shal stand and pray, forgive, if ye haue any thing against any man, that your father also which is in heaven, may forgive you your trespasses. WITH PVRENES OF conscience and amendment of life. provver. 1.27. When your fear cometh like sudden desolation, and the destruction shall come like a whirlewindde. When affliction& anguish shall come vpon you. 28. Then shall they call vpon me but I will not answer: they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me. 19. Because they hated knowledge,& did not choose the fear of the lord. 20. They would none of my counsel, but despised all my correction proverb. 15.8. The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination unto the lord, but the prayer of the righteous is acceptable unto him. provver. 21.13. He that stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he shall also cry and not be heard. Esa. 1.10. hear the word of the lord, O princes of Sodom. hearken unto the law of our God, O people of Gomorah. 11. What haue I to do with the multitude of the sacrifices, saith the Lord? I am full of the burnt offerings of rams,& of the fat of fed beasts And I desire not the blood of bullocks, nor of lambs, nor of goates. 12. When ye come to appear before me, who requireth this at your hands, to tread in my courts? 13. Bring no mo oblations in vain: incense is abomination unto me. I can not suffer your new moons, or sabbaths, nor solemn dayes( it is iniquity) nor solemn assemblies. 14. My soul hateth your new moons and your appointed feasts, they are a burden unto me: I am weary to bear them. 15. And when you shall stretch out your hands, I will hid mine eyes from you: and though you make many prayers I will not hear: for your hands are full of blood. Ierem. 7.16. Therefore thou shalt not pray for this people, neither lift up cry or prayers for them, neither entreat me, for I will not hear thee. Iere. 11.14. Therefore thou shalt not pray for this people, neither lift up a cry or prayer for them: for when they cry unto me in their trouble, I will not hear them. IN EVERY PLACE Esa. 65.16. He that shall bless in the earth, shall bless himself in the true God, and he that sweareth in the earth, shall swear by the true God: for the former troubles are forgotten, and shall surely hid themselves from mine eyes. Malach. 1.11. For from the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same, my name is great among the Gentiles, and in every place incense shalbe offered unto my name; and a pure offering: for my name is great among the heathen saith the lord of hostes. John. 4.21. And Iesus said unto her, woman, beleeue me, the hour cometh when ye shal neither in this mountain, nor at jerusalem, worship the father. Act, 16.13. And on Sabbath day, we went out of the city besides a river, where they were wont to pray: and we sate down and spake unto the women, which were come together. 1. Timoth. 2.8. I will therefore that the men pray, every where lifting up pure hands without wrath or doubting. Now to tie prayers to certain places, and to think that God doth sooner hear us in one place then in an other, that is proper to judaism: for in old time, through a singular privilege, it was granted to the Iewes onely to haue a temple, In the which God would be called vpon, with promise to hear them which should come thither to pray unto him. But now even as the difference between the Iewes and the Gentiles is taken away, so likewise the liberty, to pray through out the universal world, is given in what place soeeuer it be. ALTHOVGH THE repair into a secret place be an aid and help to pray well. Math. 6.5. And when thou prayeest, be not as the hypocrites: for they love to stand, and pray in the synagogues, and in the corners of the streets because they would be seen of men. verily I say unto you they haue their reward. 6. But when thou prayest, enter into thy chamber: and when thou hast shut thy door, pray unto thy father which is in secret, and thy father which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly. Matth. 14.23. And as soon as he had sent the multitude away, he went up into a mountain alone to pray: and when the evening was come he was there alone. Luke. 6.12. And it came to pass in those dayes, that he went into a mountain to pray, and spent the night in prayer to God. Act. 10.9. On the morrow as they went on their journey, and drew near unto the city, Peter went up vpon the house to pray, about the six hour. AND THAT THE PRAYers in assemblies ought not to be contemned. Matth. 18.19. again verily I say unto you, that if two of you shall agree in earth vpon any thing, whatsoever they shall desire, it shalbe given them of my father which is in heaven. 20. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. WE OVGHT NOT TO ask any thing contrary to God. mark. 10.35. Then james and John the sons of Zebedeus came unto him, saying, master, we would that thou shouldst do for us that, that we desire. 36. And he said unto them, what would ye that I should do for you. 37. And they said unto him, grant unto us, that we may sit one at thy right hand, and the other at thy left hand in thy glory. 38. But Iesus said unto them. Ye know not what ye ask can ye drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and be baptized with the baptism wherewith I shall be baptized with. james. 4.3. Ye ask, and receive not because ye ask amiss, that ye might consume it on your lusts. 1. John. 5.14. And this is the assurance that we haue in him, that if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth vs. AND SO PRAYING WE shalbe heard as promise is made unto vs. Psal. 50.14 Offer to God praise, and pay thy vows unto the most high, 15. And call vpon me in the day of trouble: so will I deliver thee,& thou shalt glorify me. Psal. 91.14. Because he hath loved me, therefore will I deliver him: I will exalt him because he hath known my name. 15. He shall call vpon me, and I will hear him: I will be with him in trouble: I will deliver him, and glorify him. Psal. 145.18. The Lord is near unto all that call vpon him: yea to al that call vpon him in truth. 19. He will fulfil the desire of them that fear him: he also will hear their cry, and will save them. proverb. 15.8. The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination to the Lord: but the prayers of the righteous is acceptable unto him. Esai. 30.19. Surely a people shall dwell in Sion, and in jerusalem: thou shalt weep no more: he will certainly haue mercy vpon thee at the voice of thy cry: when he heareth thee, he will answer thee Esai. 65.24. Yea, before they call, I will answer, and whiles they speak I will hear. Ierem. 29.12. Then shall you cry unto me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hear you. 13. And ye shall seek me, and find me, because ye shall seek me with all your heart. Ioel. 2.32. But whosoever shall call on the name of the lord shalbe saved: for in mount Sion, and in jerusalem shalbe deliverance, as the lord hath said, and in the remnant whom the lord shall call. Matth. 7.7. ask, and it shalbe given you: seek and you shall find: knock and it shalbe opened unto you. 8. For whosoever asketh receiveth: and he that seeketh findeth, and to him that knocketh it shalbe opened. 9. For what man is there amongst you, which if his son ask him bread, would give him a ston? 10. Or if he ask fish will give him a serpent? 11. Yf ye then which are evil, can give to your children good gifts, how much more shall your father which is in heaven, give good things to them that ask him? Luke. 11.5. moreover he said unto them, which of you shall haue a friend, and shall go to him at midnight, and say unto him, friend, lend me three loues? 6. For a friend of mine is come out of the way unto me, and I haue nothing to set before him. 7. And he within should answer, and say, trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed: I can not rise and give them to thee. 8. I say unto you though he would not arise and give him, because he is his friend, yet doubtless because of his importunity, he would rise and give him, as many as he needed. 9. And I say unto you, ask and it shalbe given: seek and ye shall find: knock and it shalbe opened. 10. For every on that asketh receiveth: and he that seeketh findeth: and to him that knocketh it shalbe opened. John. 16.23. And in that day shall ye ask me nothing. verily, verily, I say unto you, whatsoever ye shall ask the father in my name, he will give it you Hitherto haue he asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive that your joy may be full. THE form OF prayer. Matth. 6 9. After this manner pray ye, Our father which art in heaven, &c. Sith that all our prayers ought to be offered and presented to God through our lord Iesus Christ, we ought also by him to be conducted to form and frame them aright: for as saith S. paul we know not how to pray as we ought to do. Wherefore he giveth us also his holy spirit, by the which we cry Abba, father, the which also doth aid our feebleness and infirmity, making request for us with sobs and sorrows, which can not be expressed, to that end also hath he given us the form of prayer by the which as by a rule we direct all our prayers. Not to bind ourselves to scrupulously to the words, but to show us to what end and fine all our requests and prayers ought to be referred. It is not therefore to say that we may not use the psalms or other words, for our lord Iesus Christ himself hath used other words, and longer talk in saint John. chapter 17. and in in S. Math chap. 26.39. and 42. he doth not make so long a prayer. The Apostles also in the Act. chapter. 4.24. haue used an other form but whether they were longer or shorter notwithstanding they haue prayed for no other thing but for that which hear is comprehended. Let us note then, that here is given to us a lawe to pray aright, not as touching the words, but as concerning the things themselves that ought to be prayed for, and as far as it toucheth the substance of prayer. Father. Deut. 32.6. Is not he thy father that hath bought thee? he hath made thee and proportioned thee? Esai. 63.16. doubtless thou art our father though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israell know us not, yet thou, O lord, art our father, and our redeemer: thy name is for ever. Esai. 49.15. Can a woman forget her child and not haue compassion on the son of her womb? though they should forget, yet would I not forget thee. Ieremi. 31.9. For I am a father to Israell, and Ephraim is my first born. Malachi. 1.6. A son honoureth his father, and a servant his master. Yf then I be a father, where is then my honour? and if I be a master, where is my fear, saith the Lord of hostes, unto you, O Priestes, that despise my name. and ye say wherein haue we despised thy name? Mala. 2.10. Haue we not all one father, hath not one God made us? Why do we transgress every one against his brother, and break the covenant of our fathers? Matth. 7.9. For what man is there amongst you, which if his son ask him bread, would give him a ston? 10. Or if he ask fish, will give him a serpent? 11. Yf ye then which are evil, can give to your children good gifts, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him. Math. 11 25. At that time Iesus answered, and said, I give thee thankes O father, lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and men of understanding and hast opened them to babes. 26. It is so O father, because thy good pleasure was such. All things are given me of my father: and no man knoweth the son, but the father: neither knoweth any man the father, but the son, and he to whom the son will reveal him. John. 1.12. But as many as receive him, to them he gave power to be the sons of God, even to them that beleeue in his name: we are born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. Rom. 8.14. For as many as are lead by the spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15. For ye haue not received the spirit of bondage to fear again: but ye haue received the spirit of adoption, whereby we cry Abba, father. 1. Cor. 8.6. yet unto us there is but one God, which is the father of whom are all things, and we in him: and our lord Iesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. 2. Cor. 6.18. And I will be a father unto you, and ye shalbe my sons and daughters, saith the lord almighty Galath. 4.6. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the spirit of his son into your harts which crieeth, Abba father. 1. John. 3.1. behold, what love the father hath shewed on us, that we should be called the sons of God. &c. We are taught to call God father that being assured of his bounty and fatherly love not doubting that he would receive us courteously and favourably, and that he is prest and ready to hear our prayers and supplications, we may be bold to call vpon him Our. Rom. 12.4. For as we haue many members in one body, and all members haue not one office: so we being many, are one body in Christ, and every one, one anothers members. 1. Cor. 12.13, For by one spirit we are all baptized into one body, whether we be Iewes or Grecians, whether we be bond or free, and haue been all made to drink into one spirit. 14. For the body also is not one member but many, 15. If the foot would say, because I am not of the hand, I am not of the body, Is it therefore not of the body? 16 And if the ear would say, because I am not the eye, I am not of the body, is it therfore not of the body? 17. If the whole body were an ey, where were the hearing? If the whole body were hearing, where were the smelling? 18. But now hath God disposed he members of every one of them in the body, at his own pleasure. 19. For if they were all one member, where were the body? 20. But now are there many members, yet but one body. 21. And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I haue no need of thee: nor the head again to the feet, I haue no need of you. 22. Yea, much rather those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary. 23. And vpon those members of the body which we think most unhonest, put we more honesty on, and our uncomely partes haue more comeliness on. 24. For our comely partes need it not: but God hath tempered the body together, and hath given the more honour to those parts which lacked. 25. Lest there should be any division in the body: but that the members should haue the same care one for another. 26. Therefore if one member suffer, all suffer with it: If one member be had in honour, all members rejoice with it. 27. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members for your parte. 1. Tim. 2.1. I exhort therefore, that first of all, supplications, prayers, and intercession, and giving of thankes be made for all men. 2. For kings and for all that are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and a peaceable life, in all godliness and honesty. 3. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our saviour. 4. Who will that all men shall be saved, and come unto the knowledge of the truth. james. 5.16. acknowledge your faults one to another,& pray one for another, that ye may be healed: for the prayer of a righteous man availeth much, if it be f●ruent. We say rather Our father then my father, that we may be admonished and advertised of the fraternity and union, which is among us all: which are brethren& children of one father. wherefore there ought also to be such an affection among us that the prayers be common among us: that is to say, that wee pray in general for al,& not onely for ourselves Which art in heaven. 1. kings. 8.27. The heauens and the heaven of heauens, are not able to contain thee. How much more unable is the house that I haue built? 2. Chron. 2.6. Who is he then that can be able to build him an house, when the heauens and the heaven of heauens cannot contain him? Who am I then, that I should build him an house? But I do it to burn incense before him. Psal. 2.4. But he that dwelleth in the heaven shall laugh: the Lord shall haue them in derision. Item 103.19. The Lord hath prepared his throne in heaven, and his kingdom ruleth over all. 115.3. But our God is in heaven, he doth whatsoever he will. 16. The heauens, even the heauens are the Lords: but he hath given the earth to the sons of men. david declareth here briefly that this world standeth not God in any other steede, but to show his fatherly care toward men. Psal. 123.1. I lift up mine eyes to to thee which dwellest in the heauens. Isayas 66.1. Thus saith the lord, the heaven is my throne and earth is my footstool: where is that house that ye will build unto me? and where is that place of my rest? 2. For all these things hath my hand made,& all these things haue been, saith the Lord, &c. ieremy 23.24. Do not I fill heaven and earth, saith the Lord? Mat. 25.8. But be not called Rabbi, for one is your doctor, to wit, Christ, and all you are brethren. 9. And call no man your father vpon earth: for there is but one your father, which is in heaven. acts 7.47. But Solomon built him an house. 4, 8. Howbeit the most high dwelleth not in temples made with hands, as saith the Prophet. acts. 17.24. God that made the world, and all things that are therein, seeing that he is the Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands. 25. Neither is worshipped with mens hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things. 26. And hath made of our blood all mankind, to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath assigned times which were ordained before, and the bounds of their habitation. 27. That they should seek the Lord, if so be they might haue groped after him,& found him, though doubtless he be not far from every one of vs. 28. For in him we live, and move, and haue our being, as also certain of their own poets haue said, for we are also his generation. &c. We must not here understand, that God is shut up, and enclosed in heaven: but it is a manner of speaking which is as much to say, that he is almighty, which can do all things, which is of an infinite might and power,& of an incomprehensible essence, of unspeakable puissance, of everlasting immortality of a force through all things bestowed: which by his power doth, guide& govern the whole world, and doth preserve all that therein is contained by his government and conduction, and under whose domination are all things, which he disposeth by his good providence, to be short, by this is expressed his puissant power. Now the better to assure our hope, we must not doub but that we are heard: for he is wholly good, sith he is a father, and almighty to do that which we desire, and ask of him. And it is not without a cause that he saith here rather Which is in heaven, then, Which is almighty, ( although by both one& the selfsame thing is signified;) but it is to teach us to withdraw our thoughts from these terrestrial and base things, and to lift them up unto the celestial and heavenly for it would be a great shane for us, that our father should be in heaven above,& that our affections should be tied to the earth below. THE FIRST REQVEST Thy name be sanctified, or halowed be thy name. 1. Chron. 29.19. Now therefore our God, we thank thee, and praise thy holy name. job. 1.21. The Lord hath given, and the Lord hath taken it, blessed be the name of the Lord Psal. 8.1. O Lord our Lord how excellent is thy name in all the world! which hast set thy glory above the heauens. Psal. 54.6. I will praise thy name, O Lord, because it is good. Psal. 79.9. help us O God of our salvation, for the glory of thy name sake, and deliver us, and be merciful unto our sins, for thy names sake. Psal. 86.11. Teach me thy way, O Lord, and I will walk in thy truth: knit my heart unto thee, that I may fear thy name. 12. I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all mine heart: yea, I will glorify thy name for ever. Psal. 96.2. Sing unto the Lord, and praise his name, declare his salvation from day to day. 3. declare his glory among all nations, and his wonders among all people Psal. 111.9. Holy and fearful is his name. Psal. 113.1. Praise, O ye servants of the Lord, praise the name of the Lord, 2. Blessed be the name of the Lord from hence forth and ever. 3. The lords name is praised from the rising of the sun, unto the going down of the same. Psal. 115.1. Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto thy name give the glory, for thy loving mercy, and for thy truths sake. Psal. 145.1. O my God and king, I will extol thee, and will bless thy name, for ever and ever. Prou. 18.10. The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth unto it and is exalted Isaias 43.6. I will say to the North, give,& to the South, keep not back: bring my sons from far, and my daughters from the ends of the earth. 7. every one shal be called by my name: for I created him for my glory, formed him and made him. Ezec. 36.23. And I will sanctify my great name which was polluted among the heathen, among whom you haue polluted it, and the heathen shall know that I am the Lord, saith the Lord God, when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes. Ezec. 39.7. I will make my holy name known in the midst of my people Israell, and I will not suffer them to pollute my holy name any more, and the heathen shall know that I am the Lord, the holy one of Israell. Dan. 2.20. The name of God be praised for ever, and ever: for wisdom, and strength are his. Ioell. 2.32. But whosoever shall call vpon the name of the Lord, shalbe saved. Zach. 14.9. And the Lord shall be King of all the earth: in that day shall be one lord, and his name shall be, one. Malach. 1.11. For from the rising of the sun, unto the going down of of the same, my name is great among the Gentiles. Hebr. 2.12. I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the Church will I sing praises unto thee. IN RESPECT OF MEN the name of the lord may be profaned. Leuit. 18.21. Also thou shalt not give thy children, to offer them to Molech: neither shalt thou defile the name of thy God, for I am the Lord. Leuit. 19.12. Also ye shall not swear by my name falsely, neither shalt thou defile the name of thy God, I am the lord. Leuit. 20.3. And I will set my face against that man, and cut him of from among his people, because he hath given his children unto Molech, for to defile my sanctuary, and to pollute my holy name. Leuit. 24.11. So the Israelites womans son, blasphemed the name of the Lord and cursed. Isaias 52.5. now therefore what haue I hear saith the Lord, that my people is taken away for nought, and they that rule over them make them to howl, saith the lord, and my name continually, all the day is blasphemed. ezechiel. 36.32. Be it known unto you, that I do not this for your sakes, saith the Lord God, therefore o ye house of Israell, be ashamed, and confounded, for your own ways. Rom. 2.24. For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles, be cause of you, as it is written. THE SAME REQVEST, in more manifest and plain words. Psal. 67.1. God be merciful unto us and bless us, and cause his face to shine vpon vs. 2. That they may know thy way vpon earth, and thy saving health among all nations. 3. Let the people praise thee, O God, let all the people praise thee. 4. Let the people be glad and rejoice: for thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations vpon earth. 5. Let the people praise thee O God: let all the people praise thee. 6. Then shall the earth bring forth her increase: and God, even our God, shall bless vs. 7. God shall bless us, and all the ends of the world shall fear him. The name of God, is his renown, the praise, famed, recommendation, which is made of him, and as david calleth it, his holy remembrance. His name is hallowed when his praise is spread abroad through the face of the whole earth, and celebrated by the mouth of all men, as contrariwise it is profaned& blasphemed, when as it is not esteemed, according as it deserveth. But the name of the Lord is alway holy in itself, for there is nothing but doth bear some testimony and witness of his glory, and his virtue wisdom infinite goodness, iustice,& such like do shine on every side as well in heaven as in earth. But in respect of men it is oftentimes profaned, when by them his glory is obseured and darkened. As when through stupity and dullness it is not regarded& esteemed as it ought to be. Or by the misknowledgeing& contempt, it is turned into mockery, or through impiety,& ungodliness most execrable blasphemies are spewed out against the same, here therfore we do ask, that even as God is in himself holy, righteous, wise and good, that so his holinesse, righteousness, wisdom, and goodness, may be known, praised, and celebrated of all: and that his glory and majesty may shine in every place, that the due honour may be given unto him. THE second request. Thy kingdom come. Math. 6.33. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and all his righteousness, and all these things shall be ministered unto you. Luke 17.20. And when he was demanded of the pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered and said, the kingdom of God cometh not with observation. 21. nether shal men say, lo here, lo there: for behold the kingdom of God is within you. Luke 18.17. whosoever receiveth not the kingdom of God as a babe, he shall not enter therein. The kingdom of God, as we take it here, is the spiritual gouernmente, wherewith he governeth by the virtue of his spirit, and by the sceptre of his word all the elect. And then doth christ reign when men do bring themselves under, to be governed, in mortifiynge their flesh, and as it were putting it under the yoke, and renouncing their affections. This kingdom hath two partes: the one is to direct& maintain the elect, the other is to overthrow his enemies, which are the reprobate and damned. So therefore we pray to God that he would enlarge this Seigneurie and spiritual government. First in increasing the number of his elect, and in dilating and enlarging his Church, and putting under his feet all his enemies, in destroying the empire of Satan,& overthrowing the adversary kingdom, as of antichrist, of heretics of Turks,& of other semblabe: secondarily in renewing the elect, reforming their hartes to a better life by the reformation of the old man& by the obedience of his righteousness. THE THIRD REQVEST Thy will be done. Deut. 6.18. And thou shalt do that which is right and good in the sight of the lord: that thou mayst prosper. &c. 12.8. We shall not do after all things that we do here this day: that is every man, whatsoever seemeth him good in his own eyes. 1. Samuel. 15.22. Ecclesiast. 4.17. Esai. 1.19. Ose. 6.6. Math. 9 13.& 12.7. And Samuel said, hath the lord as great pleasure in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as when the voice of the lord is obeyed? behold, to obey, is better then sacrifice, and to hearken is better then rams. Psal. 40.6. Heb. 10.5. Sacrifice and offerings thou didst not desire( for mine ears hast thou prepared) but offerings and sin offerings hast thou not required. 7. Then said I, lo, I come for in the roll of the book it is written of me, 8. I desired to do thy will O my God: yea thy law is within my hart, Psal. 103.20. Praise the lord, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandment in obeying his word. 21. Praise the lord all ye his hostes, ye his servants that do his pleasure. 143.10. Teach me to do thy will, for thou art my God: let thy good spirit lead me unto the land of righteousness. proverb. 19.21.7. Many devices are in a mans hart: but the counsel of the lord shall stand. Ecclesiast. 4.17. Take heed to thy foot when thou interest into the house of God, and be more near then to give the sacrifice of fools: for they know not that they do evil. Ieremi. 5.4.7. And I will give them a hart to know me, that I am the Lord, and they shalbe my people, and I will be their God, for they shall return unto me with their whole heart. 31.33. But this shalbe the covenant that I will make with the house of Israell, After, those dayes, saith the Lord, I will put my lawe in their inward partes,& writ it in their harts and will be their God, and they shalbe my people. Ezech. 11.19. And will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within their bowels. I will take the stony hart out of their bodies,& will give them a hart of flesh. Matth. 26.39. Not as I will, but as thou wilt. mark. 14.36. Not that I will but thy will be done. Luke. 2.14. glory be to God in the high heauens, and peace in earth, and towards men good will. Luke. 22.42. Not my will, but thine be done. john. 5.30. I seek not my own will but the will of the father which hath sent me. 6.38. For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but his will the which hath sent me. 40. This is the will of him that hath sent me, that every one that seeth the son, and believeth in him should haue everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day. Act. 9.6. lord, what wilt thou that I do. Act. 21.14. So when he would not be persuaded we ceased, saying the will of the Lord be done. Rom. 7.15. For I allow not that which I do: for what I would that do I not but what I hate, that do I. 16. If I do then that which I would not, I consent to the law that it is good. 19. For I do not the good things which I would, but the evil which I would not that do I. 21. I find then by the law that when I would do good, evil is present with me. 22. For I delight in the law of God, concerning the inner man. 23. But I see an other law in my members, rebelling against the law of my mind and leading me captive unto the law of sin, which is in my members. 24. O wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from this body of death? 25. I thank God through Iesus Christ, our lord, Then I myself in my mind serve the law of God, but in my flesh the law of sin. Rome. 12.2. And fashion not yourselves like unto this world, but be ye changed by the renewing of your mind that ye may prove what is the good will of God, and acceptable and perfect. 2. Corinth. 3.4. And such trust haue we through Christ to God. 5. Not that we are sufficient of ourselves, to think any thing, as of ourselves: but our sufficiency is of God. Ephe. 5.17. Werefore be ye not unwise, but understand what the will of the lord is. Colos 4.12, Epaphras the servant of Christ, which is one of you saluteth you, and always striveth for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect, and full in all the will of God. 1. Thes. 4.3. For this is the will of God even your sanctification, and that we should abstain from fornication. 4. That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in holiness and honor. 5. And not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God. Heb. 13.20. The God of peace that brought again from the deade our Lord Iesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant. 21. Make you perfect in all good works, to do his will, working that which is pleasant in his sight through Iesus Christ, to whom be praise for ever and ever, Amen. 1. Peter. 4.1. Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind, which is that he which hath suffered in the flesh, hath ceased from sin. 2. That he henceforwarde should live( as much time as remaineth in the flesh) not after the lusts of men, but after the will of God. 1. John. 2.17. He that fulfilleth the will of God abideth for ever. 1. John. 5.14. And this is the assurance that we haue in him, that if we ask any thing according to his will he heareth vs. In this request we do not desire that which he will: for the will of God is done always, will we, nill we. But it is in our behalf that we desire it of him. First we deny and renounce all our lusts and desires, forsaking and abandoning all our affections and leaving them to God, and praying him that he would not suffer things to fall out according to our lusts, but as he shal see and know them to be good, and according to his will and pleasure. Secondarily that he would create in us a new heart and a new will in such sort that we will and desire nothing but that which pleaseth and liketh him, and that he approveth. Thirdly that all those to whom God hath given any charge, may duly acquit themselves of their duty, as the Pastours and Ministers toward the Church, the Magistrates and rulers toward the people, the teachers toward their schollers, the fathers and mothers toward their children, and contrariwise the children toward their fathers and mothers, and the husbands and wifes mutually the one toward the other. He addeth, As in heaven. For in heaven there is none that resisteth his will: but the chiefest ioy of celestial creatures is to live under the pleasure and will of God. THE fourth REQVEST give us this day our daily bread Deut. 8.3. Therefore he humbled thee and made thee hungry, and fed thee with Man, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know it, that he might teach thee that man liveth not by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the Lord doth a man live. job. 39.3. Who prepareth for the raven his meate, when his birds cry unto God, wandring for lack of meate? Psal. 37.25. I haue been young and now am old, yet I saw never the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread. Psal. 55.22. Cast thy burden vpon the lord, and he shall nourish thee. he will not suffer the righteous to fall for ever. Psal. 60.11. When thy treasure shall abound set not thy hart thereon. Psal. 104.21. The lions roar after their pray& seek their meate at God. 27. all these wait vpon thee that thou mayest give them food in due seasons. 28. Thou givest it to them and they gather it: thou openest thine hand, and they are filled with good things. Psal. 136.25. unchurch giveth food to all flesh, for his mercy endureth for ever. Psal. 145.15. The eyes of all wait vpon thee, and thou givest them their meate in due season? 16. Thou openest thine hand, and fillest all things living of thy good pleasure. Psal. 147.9. which givest to beasts their food, and to the young ravens that cry. proverb. 10.3. The lord will not famish the s●n●e of the righteous: but he casteth away the substance of the wicked 22. The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, he doth ad no sorrows with it. Ecclesiast. 5.18. Also to every man to whom God hath given riches and treasures, and giveth him power to eat thereof, and to take his part, and to enjoy his labours: this is the gift of God. Ezec. 4 16. I will break the staff of bread in jerusalem: and they shall eat bread by weight& with care, and they shall drink water by measure, and with astonishment. 17. Because that bread& water shal fail, they shalbe astonied one with an other, and shall consume away for their iniquity. Ezec. 5.16. When I shall sand vpon them the evil arrows of famine, which shal be of their destruction, and which I will send to destroy you, and I will increase the famine vpon you,& will break your staff of bread. 17. So will I sand vpon you famine, and evil beasts, and they shall spoil thee, and pestilence, and blood shall pass through thee, and I will bring the sword vpon thee, I the lord haue spoken it. Ezec. 14.13. son of man when the land sinneth against me in committing a tres●asse, then will I stretch out my hand vpon it, and will break the staff of the bread thereof, and will sand famine vpon it, and I will destroy man& beast forth of it. Ose. 4.10. For they shall eat and not haue enough: they shall commit adultery, and shall not increase, because they haue left of to take heed unto the lord. Mich. 6.14. Thou shalt eat and not be satisfied, and thy casting down shalbe in the midst of thee, and thou shalt take hold, but shalt not deliver, and that which thou deliverest, will I give up to the sword. Matth. 6.25. Therefore I say unto you, be not careful for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink: nor yet for the body what ye shall put on, Is not the life more worth thē meate● and the body then raiment. 26. Behold the fowls of the heaven, for they sow not, neither reap, nor carry into their barns: yet your heavenly father feedeth them, are ye not much better then they? 27. Which of you by taking care is able to add one cubit unto his stature? 28 And why care ye for raiment? learn, howe the lilies of the filled do grow: they labour not, neither spin. 29. Yet I say unto you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30. Wherefore Yf God so cloth the grass of the filled which is to day, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not do much more unto you, O ye of little faith? 31. Therefore take no thought, saying: what shall we eat? or what shall we drink? or wherewith shall we be clothed? 32.( For after all these things seek the Gentiles) for your heavenly father knoweth, that ye haue need of all these things. 33. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness and all these things shalbe ministered unto you. Philippians. 4.6. Be nothing careful, but in all things let your requests be shewed unto God in prayers, and supplication, and with giuing of thankes. 1. Peter. 5.7. Cast all your care on him for he careth for you. SOLOMONS PRAYER proverb. 30.7. Two things haue I required of thee: deny me them not before I die, 8. remove far from me vanity and lies, give me not poverty nor riches: feed me with food convenient for me. 9. Lest I be full and deny thee, and say, who is the lord? or lest I be poor and steal, and take the name of my God in vain. First we desire of God that he would maintain and preserve this present life which he hath given us in this world. Secondarily that he would fournish and give us, that which he knoweth to be most necessary and needful for the preservation of the same, as meate, drink, raiment, habitation, sense understanding wisdom, holynes,& a good disposition& strength of body,& all other like things: for all that is understood by the name of bread. In sum in this petition we do give ourselves unto him as a charge, and we do put ourselves in his providence, to be nourished, maintained, and preserved of him. Now to ask these things appartaining not onely to the poor and indigent, but also unto the rich and wealthy( for it is not the abundance that nourisheth, but the secret and hidden blessings of God spread over all things) nor to the sick, but to the found and healthy( for health is not perpetual) nor unto the vndiscrite and poor in spirit, but to the most witty and wise, for their prudency may be turned into ignorance, and their wisdom into folly. This bread we call ours, not because that it is, or that it cometh from us: for it is only the gift of God: but in that it is so necessary for us, that without it we can not live. This word daily is expounded in S. Matth. chap. 6.34. Care not then for to morrow for the morrow shall care for itself: the day hath enough with his own grief Wherein we are taught to be contented and not to desire more then our necessity requireth. THE FIFT REQVEST And forgive us our offences. Genes. 6.5. When the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great vpon the earth, and all the imaginations, of the thoughts of his heart were only evil continually. Gen. 8.21. For the imagination of mans heart is evil, even from his youth. 1. kings. 8.16. For there is no man that sinneth not. job. 15.14. What is man that he should be clean? and he that is born of a woman, that he should be just? 15. Behold he found noe steadfastness in his saints: yea, the heauens are not clear in his sight. 16. How much more is man abominable, and filthy, which drinketh iniquity like water? job. 25.4. And how may a man be justified with God: or how can he be clean that is born of a woman? 5. Behold, he will give no light to the moon,& the stars are unclean in his sight. 6. And how much more man a worm, even the son of man: which is but a worm. Psal. 19.12. Who can understand his faults? cleanse me from my secret faults? Psalm. 32.5. Then I acknowledged my sin unto thee, neither hide I mine iniquity: for I thought, I will confess against myself my wickedness unto the Lord, and thou forgavest the punishment of my sin. Selah Psal. 51. ●. Haue mercy vpon me O God, according unto thy loving kindness: according to the multitude of thy compassions, put away mine iniquities. 2. irish me thoroughly from mine iniquities, and cleanse me from my sin. 3. For I know mine iniquities, and my sin is ever before me. 4. Against thee, against thee onely haue I sinned, and done evil in thy sight, that thou maiest be just when thou speakest, and pure when thou judgest. 7. Purge me with hissope, and I shall be clean: wash me and I shall be whiter then snow. Psal. 103.8. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy, slow to anger, and of great kindness. 9. He will not alway chide, neither keep his anger for ever. 10. He hath not dealt with us after our sins, neither rewarded us according to our iniquities. 11. For as high as heaven is above the earth, so great is his mercy to them that fear him. 12. As far as the East is from the West, so far hath he removed our sins from vs. 13. As a father hath compassion on his children, so hath the Lord compassion on them that fear him. 14. For he knoweth whereof we be made; he remembreth that we are but dust. Psal. 116.11. I said in my fear, all men are liars. Psal. 143.2. And enter not into iudgment with thy servant: for in thy sight shall none that liveth be justified. Ecclesiast. 7.22. Surely there is noe man just in the earth, that doth good and sinneth not. Isaias 1.18. Though your sins were as crimson, they shall be made white as snow, though they were read like sk●rlet, they shall be as wool. Isaias 43.25. I, even I, am he that putteth away thine iniquities for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins. Isaias 44.22. I haue put away thy transgressions like a cloud,& thy sins as a mist: turn unto me for I haue redeemed thee. Isai. 64 6. But we haue all been like an unclean thing, and all our righteousness is as filthy clouts, and we all do fade like a leaf, and our iniquities like the wind haue taken us away. Daniel. 9.4. And I prayed unto the Lord my God, and made my confession, saying. Oh Lord God which art great, and fearful, and keepest covenant and mercy toward them that keep thy commandments. 5. We haue sinned& haue committed iniquity, and haue done wickedly, yea, we haue rebelled and haue departed from thy precepts and from thy judgements. 6. For we would not obey thy servants the Prophetes, which spake in thy name to our kings, to our Princes, and to our fathers, and to all the people of the land. Mich. 7.18. Who is a God like unto thee, that taketh away iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? He retaineth not his wrath for ever, because mercy pleaseth him. 9. He will turn again and haue compassion vpon us: he will subdue our iniquities,& cast all our sins into the bottom of the sea. Rom. 3.9. For we haue already proved that all both Iewes and Gentiles, are under sin. 10. As it is written there is none righteous, no not one: 11. There is none that understandeth there is none that seeketh God. 23. All haue sinned, and are deprived of the glory of God. Galat. 3.22. But the scripture hath concluded all under sin. &c. 1. joh. 1.8. If we say we haue no sin, we deceive ourselves& truth is not in vs. 10. If we say we haue not sinned, we make him a liar,& his word is not in us Forasmuh as all are sinners, and haue need of remission of sins: it is commanded also to us all to ask pardon. And there is none how holy and perfect so ever he be, that is exempted. And there needs no other place but this, for to condemn the nature of all men, and to show that all are sinners: for this prayer is not given for one, or for two, nor for many, but generally for all. And it is not commanded the disciples, onely to run back to the remission of sins, but to all the church. But to those that think, that they haue no need of remission of sins, S. John speaketh, saying, they deceive themselves( for thinking that they are just, they are sinners) and that they belie God( which condemneth all mankind of sin) and that the word of God is not in them, that is to say, they cast away the doctrine of God, which doth enclose us all under comdemnation. And the sins are called debts, in S. matthew, chap. 6.12. because they do bind us to condemnation, before the iudgement seat of God,& doth make us guilty: and that which is more, it doth alienate and estraung us altogether from God, in such sort, that there is no hope to obtain grace and peace, if that pardon be not given vs. And God doth quiter our debts, when he doth freely pardon our faults, in not doing vengeance, as we haue deserved, but in allowinge us just and innocent. As we forgive thē which haue offended vs. Math. 5.23. If then thou bring thy gift unto the alter, and there remembrest that thy brother hath ought against thee. 24. leave there thine offering before the alter, and go thy way: first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. 25. Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him, least thine adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the sergeent, and thou be cast into prison. 26. verily I say unto thee, thou shalt not come out thence till thou hast payed the utmost farthing. 44. love your enemies: bless them that curse you: do good to thē that hate you, and pray for them that hurt you, and persecute you. 45. That ye may be the children of your father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to arise on the evil, and on the good, he sendeth rain on the just and vniuste. 6.14. Yf ye do forgive men their trespasses your heavenly father will also forgive you. 15. But if ye do not forgive them their trespasses no more will your father forgive you your trespasses. Matth. 18 23. Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. &c. Iesus Christ commandeth by this similitude of the king or lord,& his servant which was to answer him a great sum,& of him and his fellow his debtoure in a small sum, that we should forgive one the other his offences as God, forgiveth those which we commit against his majesty( and concludeth) 35. So likewise shall my heavenly father do unto you except ye forgive from your heartes, each one to his brother their trespasses. Luke. 6.27. forgive and ye shalbe forgiven. Luke. 23.34. Then said Iesus father, forgive them for they know not what they do. Act. 7.60. And he kneeled down,& cried with a loud voice, lord lay not this sin to their charge. Colos 3.13. Forbearing one an other, and forgiving one an other, if any man haue a quarrel to an other: even as Christ forgave, even so do ye. james. 5.16. aclowledge your faults one to an other,& pray one for an other that he may be healed. By this particle is declared unto us that God will not forgive us our faults, if we semblably forgive not the injuries which our brethren shall do unto vs. Wherefore they which haue not laid aside all envy and evil will, and conceive brotherly love towards all men, yea towards their very enemies: when they make this request desiring pardon of God, besides that they are liars& that they mock God, they desire of God that he would not grant unto them remission of their sins, for they do require that God would there do unto thē, as they do there unto others. But here we must note that there is a difference between the pardon that God giveth and that which men give. For God pardonethe to the end that our sins be not imputed unto us, and that no vengeance at all be done: but man pardoneth in as much as he retaineth no evil will against those which shall offend him. THE sixth REQVEST, And lead us not into tentation. The meaning is that we pray that no temptation overcome vs. But we must mark that there are two sorts of temptations, as we may gather out of S. james. 1.12, 13. the one sort doth serve to the welfare and health of those which are tempted, as those which God sendeth them for to prove their faith. The other sort to solicit and provoke them to sin& offend God as are all the evil thoughts& conceptions of our mind, and all the incitations and motions which are contrary to the law of God, whether it be the concupiscence or lust which is hidden in our flesh, or whether the devil doth stir us up as are the very things themselves which of their own nature are not evil, when as by the devils arte they are to us tentation, where the one some are at the right hand, as riches, power, honors, the other some at the left hand, as poverty, reproach, contempt, affliction, and other like things. Of both these sorts of temptation it is spoken in many places of the scripture. Gen. 22.1. God proved Abraham. &c. Exo. 20.20. fear not for God is come to prove you, and that his fear may be before you, that ye sin not. 2. Chron. 32.31. God left him to try him, and to know all that was in his heart. Psal. 26.2. prove me O lord and try me: examine my raynes, and mine heart. 1. Cor. 10.13. There hath no tentation taken you, but such as appartaineth to man: and God is faithful which will not suffer you to be tempted above that you be able, but will give the issue even with the tentation that ye may be able to bear it. james. 1.2. My breathren count it exceeding ioy, when ye fall into diverse temptations. 3. Knowing that the trying of your faith bringeth forth patience. 12. Blessed is the man that endureth tentation: For when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the lord hath promised to them that love him. 1. Peter. 1.15. Which are kept by the power of God, through faith unto salvation, which is prepared to be shewed in the last time: 6. When ye rejoice: though now for a season( if need require) ye are in heaviness, through manifold temptations. 7. That the trial of your faith, being much more precious then gold that perisheth( though it be tried with fire) might be found unto praise, and honour, and glory at the appeareing of Iesus Christ. OF THE TENTATION which we desire to euitate, Matth. 26.41. wretch and pray, that ye enter not into tentation: the spirit in deed is ready, but the flesh is weak. Gal. 6.1. considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. 1. Timoth. 6.9. For they that willbe rich, fall into tentation& snares,& into many foolish and noisome lusts, which drown men in perdition and destruction. james. 1.13. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God, for God can not be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man. 14. But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away by his own concupiscence, and is enticed. 15. Then when lust hath conceived it bringeth forth sin, and sin when it is finished bringeth forth death. In making this request, first we aclowledge on the one side the danger in the which we are, to wit to fall and to be overtaken and ruined by tentation: and on the other side our infirmities& weakness for if there were no danger we ought not to desire to be delivered: if we be strong enough we ought not to ask for aid. Secondarily we request to be fortified and strengthened by the virtue and force of the holy Ghost, for to resist and withstand the assaults of the devill, and the evil lusts of the flesh( the which do fight against us) to persever in the way of righteousness, bearing away the victory over all our enemies, and in the end to triumph in Paradise. As touching the external tentation, albeit God sendeth us them for to prove our faith, notwithstanding forasmuch as Satan doth endeavour to draw and make us decline from God, either by pride and arrogancy( because of prosperity, and by the sweetness of the pleasures of this world) or by impatiency and desperation,( because of adversities) we haue need to desire of god that he would give us a good end and issue. But let us note that we desire not that we should not be tempted, but that we be not lead or put into temptation, for there is a difference: and it is good that we be tempted that we may be wakened to the end that we be not to much sleepy& slothful. To be lead therefore into tentation, is to be overcome and vanquished of tentation: as we are when we consent to the same, to be turned from God according unto the purpose and intention of the devill But deliver us from evil. Luke. 22.31. Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired you, to winow you as wheat. 32. But I haue prayed for the, that thy faith fail not, therefore when thou art converted, strengthen thy breathren. John. 17.15. I pray not that thou shouldst take them out of the world: but that thou keep them from evil. 1. thessaly. 3.5. even for this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent him that I might know of your faith, lest the tempter had tempted you in any sort, that our labour had been in vain. 1. Peter. 5.8. Be sober and watch: for your adversary the devill as a roaring lion walketh about, seeking whom he may devour. 9. Whom resist steadfast in the faith. &c. 1. john. 5.4. For all that is born of God, overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. 5. Who is it that overcometh the world, but he which believeth that Iesus is the son of God? 18. We know that whosoever is born of God, sinneth not, but he that is begotten of God, keepeth himself, and the wicked toucheth him not. It is no request separated, by itself: but an exposition of the last: as if we would say, when temptations shal assault us deliver us from the evil to the which Satan doth provoke us by them: or else deliver us from all those things which may alienate us from thee. For thine is the kingdom the power, and the glory for ever and ever. Amen. 1. Chron. 29.10. Blessed be thou, O lord God, of Israell our father for ever and ever. 11. Thine, O lord, is greatness and power, and glory, and victory and praise for all that is in heaven and in earth is thine: thine is the kingdom, O Lord, and thou excellest as head over all. 12. Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all, and in thine hand is power and strength and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all. 13. now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name. Psal. 145.11. They show the glory of thy kingdom and speak of thy power. 12. To cause his power to be known to the sons of men, and the glorious renown of his kingdom. 13. Thy kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion endureth throughout all ages. look vpon the whole psalm. Rom. 11.36. For of him, and through him, and for him are all things: to him be glory for ever. Amen. Rom. 16.27. To God, I say, onely wise be praise through Iesus Christ for ever. Amen. 1. Timoth. 1.17. Now unto the king everlasting, immortal, invisible, unto God onely wise be honour and glory for ever. Amen 1. Timoth. 6.16. unto whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen. 1. Peter. 5.11. To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. Iude. 1.25. That is, to God only wise, our saviour, be glory, and majesty, and dominion and power, both now and for ever. Amen. Apocalip. 4.11. Thou art worthy, O lord, to receive glory and honour, and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy wills sake they are and haue been created. Apoc. 5.13. Praise, and honour and glory, and power be to him, that sitteth vpon the throne, and unto the lamb for evermore. By this we protest before God, that we do not ground our requests in the trust and confidence of ourselves: but in the power and bounty of God. A SVMMARIE OF THE prayer. Luk. 12.31. But rather seek ye after the kingdom of God, and all these things shalbe ministered unto you. OF faith. WE MVST believe that we may be justified and saved. Gen 15.6. Rom. 4.18. Gal. 3.6. I am 2.23. Abraham believed in God, and it was imputed to him for righteousness. Hose. 2.20. I will even marry thee unto me, in faithfulness, and thou shalt know the Lord. Habak. 2.4. Rom. 1.17. Gal. 3.11. But the just shall live by his faith. mark 16, 16. He that shall beleeue and be baptized, shall be saved. joh. 3.14. And as Moses lift up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the son of man be lifted up. 15. that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish but haue eternal life, 16. For God so loved the world, that he hath given his onely begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but haue everlasting life. 17. For God sent not his son into the world, that he should condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved. 18. He that believeth in him shall not be condemned. John. 5 24. verily, verily, I say unto you, he that heareth my word, and believeth in him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation, but hath passed from death into life. John 6.29. This is the work of God, that ye beleeue in him whom he hath sent. 40. And this is the will of him that sent me, that every man that seeth the son, and believeth in him should haue life everlasting. Act. 10.43. To him also give all the Prophetes witness, that through his name, all that beleeue in him, shall receive remission of sins. Act. 15 9. After that by faith he had purified their heartes. Rom. 3.28. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the works of the law. Rom. 10.9. and Isaias 28.26. For if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Iesus, and shalt beleeue in thine heart, that God raised him up from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness, and with the mouth man confesseth to salvation. 11. For the scripture saith, whosoever believeth in him shall not be ashamed. Gal. 2.16. know that a man is not justified by the works of the Law, but by the faith of Iesus Christ, even we I say, haue believed in Iesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law, because that by the works of the Law, no flesh shall be justified. Gal. 3.11. And that no man is justified by the Law in the sight of God, it is evident: for the just shall live by faith. Ephes, 2.5. even when we were dead by sins, he hath quickened us together in Christ, by whose grace ye are saved. 1. Pet. 1.8. In whom now, though he see him not, yet do you beleeue,& rejoice with ioy unspeakable& glorious. 9. receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. THOSE THAT believe not, are damned. Nomb. 14.11. And the Lord said unto Moses, How long will this people provoke me, and how long will it be, ere they beleeue me, for all the signs that I haue shewed among them? 12. I will smite them with pestelence and destroy them, Nomb. 20.12. Because ye believed me not, to sanctify me in the presence of the children of Israell, therefore ye shal not bring this congregation into the land which I haue given them. Psal. 78.21. Therefore the lord heard and was angry, and the fire was kindled in jacob, and also wrath came vpon Israell. 22. Because they believed not in God, and trusted not in his help. Esa. 7.9. If ye beleeue not, surely ye shall not be established. mark 16.16. But he that will not beleeue, shall be damned. Luke 1.20. And behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things be done, because thou beleeuedst not my words, which shall he fulfilled in their season. John. 3.18. But he that believeth not is condemned already, because he believeth not in the name of the onely begotten son of God. John. 8.24. For except ye beleeue that I am he, ye shall die in your sins. THERE IS A feigned faith which is but a vain and a dead faith. 1. Cor. 13.2. And though I had the gift of prophesy, and knew all secrets,& all knowledge, yea, if I had all faith, so that I could remove mountaines, and had not love, I were nothing. 1. Tim. 1.5. For the end of the commandment is love out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned. 2. Tim. 1.5. When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee. Titus. 1.16. They profess that they know God, but by works they deny him, and are abominable and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate. james. 2.17. even so the faith if it haue no works, is dead in itself. 18. But some man might say, thou hast the faith and I haue works: show me thy faith out of thy works, and I will show thee my faith by my works. 19. Thou believest that there is one God: thou dost well: the devils also beleeue it and tremble. 20. But wilt thou understand, O thou vain man, that the faith which is without works is dead. Man which according unto his first estate was created good and perfect, hath afterward made himself, through his own fault, poor and miserable,& that which worse is, hath altogether alienated and estranged himself from God, with out any good hope or assurance of reconciliation, but rather with a terrible expectation and attent of the iudgement and wrath of God whom he had offended, had it not been that God had remedied it, by one onely mean, which is to show pity and mercy vpon him: in such sort notwithstanding that he receive this benefit by a firm and strong faith, and stay himself thereon with a sure hope. Faith therefore is the onely& necessary means to haue access unto the heavenly father: the which he that hath not, he can not onely come before the favourable face of God but is also condemned already to eternal and everlasting perdition. But it must be a true faith, not a feigned faith: a lively faith, and not a dead faith, and of heart, and not of outward show and appearance, as that of the hypocrites, but that which being founded and established, vpon the word of God,& not vpon the lightness of mens understanding, it be firm and without all doubt. FAITH IF IT BE NOT founded and builded vpon the word of God is vain. Nom. 9.18. At the commandment of the Lord the children of Israell journeyed, and at the commandment of the Lord they pitched. 20. for they journeyed at the commandment of the Lord. 23. Keeping the watch of the Lord at the commandment of the Lord, by the hand of Moses. Deut. 6 6. And these words which I command thee this day, shal be in thine heart. 7. And thou shalt rehearse them continually unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou tarriest in thine house, and thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. 8. And thou shalt bind them for a sign vpon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. 9. Also thou shalt writ them vpon the post of thine house, and vpon thy gates. Psalm. 119.105. Thy word is a lantern unto my feet, and a guide unto my paths. acts 17.11. Which received the word with all readiness, and preached the scriptures daily, whether it were so. Rom. 10.14. But how shall they call on him, whom they haue not believed? and how shall they beleeue in him, of whom they haue not heard? and howe shall they hear without a preacher? ●5. And how shall they preach, except they be sent? 17. Then faith is by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Ephes. 2.19. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners: but citizens with the saints, and of the household of God. 20. And are built vpon the foundation of the Apostles and Prophetes, Iesus Christ being the chief corner ston. 21. In whom all the building coupled together, groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord. 22. In whom ye also are built together to be the habitation of God by the spirit. Hebr. 11.11. Through faith Sara also received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful which had promised. Faith hath two partes: the one is a certain and sure knowledge, and( as it is called) science, by the which we agree with that which is rehearsed in the word of God, and believe that all that therein is contained is true and veritable, and especially above the rest, that which concerneth the dispensation of our health. The other is a firm and full hope, by the which the heart doth firmly rest vpon the truth which shee hath known. Now the sum of those things contained in the scripture( which is the word of God) and which we ought necessary to know, and vpon the which the assurance of our salvation is chiefly founded, it is set forth before us in the creed, called the Apostles, whereof followeth the exposition. I beleeue. We say in the singular number, I beleeue, rather then in the plural, we beleeue: for as much as it is not enough to haue a confused and general faith, referring themselves to the faith of another, yea, although they refer themselves to the faith of the whole Church, if every one hath not faith for himself, and doth not beleeue in particular. For whatsoever faith other haue, yea, and the Church itself, if every one haue it not particularly, that will not serve any thing at all to be saved, to him that shall be of sufficient age to beleeue. AN OTHERS FAITH is not sufficient to save vs. Ierem. 15.1. Though Moses and samuel stood before me, yet mine affection could not be toward this people: cast them out of my sight, and let them depart. Ezechiel 14.14. Though these three men, Noah, daniel, and jacob, were among them, they should deliver but their own souls, by their righteousness saith the Lord God. 16. Though these three men were in the midst thereof, As I live, saith the Lord God, they shall save neither sons nor daughters. &c. Habakuk. 2.4. The just shall live by his saith. mark 16.16. He that shall beleeue and be baptized, shall be saved: but he that will not beleeue shall be damned. In God the father. Isaias 64.8. But now O Lord, thou art our father: we are the day, and thou art our potter, and we all are the work of thy hands. Math. 23.9. And call no man your father vpon the earth, for there is but one, your father which is in heaven. joh. 20.17. I ascend unto my father, and your father,& to my God,& your God. Rom. 8.15. But ye haue received the spirit of adoption, whereby we cry Abba father. 16. The same spirit beareth witness with our spirit, that wee are the children of God. Ephes. 4.5. There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism. 6. One God and father of all, which is above all, and through all, and in you all. This word one, is put down with a little prick, and distinguished with points, as if he would say, Christ cannot be divided, the faith cannot be separated in two, and there are not diverse baptisms, we must therfore entertain and keep a holy union together which consisteth of so many bands. We confess and aclowledge the inestimable goodness and fatherly good will that he hath towards us, that he willeth us well as a good father. almighty. Psal. 115.3. But our God is in heaven, he doth whatsoever he will. Psal. 135.6. whatsoever pleaseth the lord that did he in heaven and in earth, in the sea& in all the depth. &c. Ierem. 32.17. As the Lord God, behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power,& by thy stretched out arm, and there is nothing hard unto the. 27. behold I am the lord God of all flesh: is there any thing to hard for me? Mat. 19.26. With men this is unpossible, but with God all things are possible. Luk. 1.37. For with God shal nothing be unpossible. He is not onely almighty, but he is he, which is the almighty alone. job. 9.4. He is wise in heart and mighty in strength who hath been far against him, and hath prospered? 5. He removeth the mountaines& they feel not when he overthroweth them in his wrath. 6. He removeth the earth out of her place, that the pillars thereof do shake. Psal. 35.10. All my bones shall say, lord who is like unto thee, which deliverest the poor from him, that is to strong for him? yea the poor and him that is in misery, from him that spoileth him. Psal. 71.19. And thy righteousness, O God, I will exalt on high: for thou hast done great things: O God, who is like unto thee. Psal. 89 6. For who is equal to the Lord in the heaven? and who is like the lord among the sons of their Gods? 7. God is very terrible in the assembly of the Saincts, and to be reverenced above all that are above him. 8. O Lord of hostes, who is like unto the, which art a mighty lord, and thy truth is above thee. 9. Thou rulest the raging of the sea: when the waves therof do arise thou stillest them. &c. Esai. 40.10. behold the lord will come with power, and his arm shall rule for him: behold his wages is with him, and his work before him. 12. Who hath measured the waters in his fiste? and counted heaven with the span, and comprehended the dust of the earth in a measure? and weighed, the mountaines in a weight, and the hills in a balance. 13. Who hath instructed the spirit of the Lord? or was his counsellor and taught him? 15. Behold the nations are as a drop of a bucket, and are counted as the dust of the balance: behold he taketh away the Isles as a little dust. 17. All nations before him are as nothing, and they are counted to him less then nothing, and vanity. In confessing God to be almighty, we do not only attribute unto him all might and power, but we do also take it from all other things whatsoever they be. And that doth also serve for the confirmation of our faith for, for to confirm it we must conjoin and annex these two things together, to wit the will and the might and power. That if a man leave the one of them, faith willbe uncertain, creator of heaven and of earth. Genes. 1.1. In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. Psal. 33.6. By the word of the lord were the heauens made and all the honstes of them by the breath of his mouth. Psal. 102.25. Thou hast aforetime laid the foundation of the earth, and the heauens are the work of thine hands. Esai. 42.5. Thus saith God the lord( he that created the heauens and spread them abroad: he that stretcheth forth the earth, and the buds thereof, he that giveth breath unto the people vpon it, and spirit to them that walk therein) Ierem. 10.12. He hath made the earth by his power, and established the world by his wisdom, and hath stretched out the heauens by his discretion Ierem. 32.17. Ah Lord God behold, thou hast made the heaven and thy earth by thy great power, and by the stretched forth arm, and there is nothing hard unto ●hee. acts 4.24. O Lord, thou art the God which hath made the heauens and the earth, the sea and all things that are therein. Act. 17.24. God that hath made the world and all things that are therein seeing that he is lord of heaven, and of earth dwelleth not in temples made with hands. Rom. 11.36. For of him and through him, and for him are all things. &c. 1. Cor. 8.6. Yet unto us there is but one God which is the father of whom are all things and we by him. As God through his power and might hath created all things, so likewise through his divine providence he maintaineth and conducteth all things, without the which nothing doth happen or chance. Exod. 21.13. And if a man hath not laid wait, but God hath offered him into his hands, then I will appoint thee a place whether he shall fly. 2. Chron. 11.4. Thus saith the Lord, ye shall not go up, nor fight against your breathren, return every man to his house: for this thing is done of me. job. 12.17. He causeth the counsellors to go as spoyled, and maketh the Iudges fools. 19. He leadeth away the Princes as a pray, and overthroweth the mighty. 20. He taketh away the speech from the faithful counsellors, and taketh away the iudgement of the ancient. 21. He poureth contempt vpon Princes and maketh the strength of the mighty weak. Psal. 33.10. The lord breaketh the counsel of the heathen, and bringeth to nought the devises of the people. proverb. 16.1. The preparations of the heart are in man: but the answer of the tongue is of the lord. Ierem. 10.13. He giveth by his voice the multitude of waters in the heaven, and he causeth the clouds to ascend from the ends of the earth: he turneth lightning unto rain,& bringeth forth the wind out of his treasures. 23. O Lord, I know, that the way of man is not in himself, neither is it in man to walk and to direct his steps. Daniel. 2.21. And he changeth the times& seasons: he taketh away kings: he setteth up kings, he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and understanding to those that understand. 22 He discovereth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him. Amos. 3.6. Or shall there be any evil in the city, and the lord hath done it? Matth. 10.29. Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing,& one of them shall not fall vpon the ground without your father? 30. Yea, and all the hears of your head are numbered, john. 5.17. My father worketh hitherto, and I work. Act. 17.28. For in him we live and move and haue our being. &c. 1. Peter. 5.7. Cast all your care on him: for he careth for you. For the praise of this admirable providence of God, read the psal. 104.& 105.& 106.& 107. Item. Isaias. 45. Chapter. Here we confess two things: the one is that all things had a beginning, and that there is nothing that hath not had a beginning wherein we put a difference between God the creator& oath creatures: for the eternity and the essence or being by itself is so proper unto God, that, for that he is god. wherefore if the world or any thing beside God, were of eternity and without beginning, it must also of necessity be God. Now there is but one God: there is therfore nothing that hath not a beginning, God excepted. secondarily we confess that it is God that hath created all things,& that all things were made by the word of God,& nothing hath been made without it. Now the providence of God( by the which he doth guide and govern all things) is so joined with the creation of the world: that it can not be separated: and God can not be the creator, but that he be also the conductor. Wherefore in confessing the one we confess also the other: And under the word of creator we understand also that he maintaneth, guideth and conducteth heaven and earth. moreover by the words heaven and earth are comprehended all celestial and terrestrial things, and are brought under the creation& providence of God. And in Iesus Christ. Isaias 28.16. He that believeth shall make hast. John 3.18. He that believeth in him shall not be condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already. &c. 36. He that believeth in the son, hath everlasting life, and he that obeyeth not the son, shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him. John 6.29. This is the work of God, that ye beleeue in him whom he hath sent. 40. And this is the will of him that sent me, that every man that seeth the son, and believeth in him: should haue everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day. 47. He that believeth in me hath everlasting life. John 9.35. Iesus said, dost thou beleeue in the son of God? 36. He answered and said, who is he Lord, that I might beleeue in him? 37. And Iesus said unto him, both thou hast seen him and he it is that talketh with thee. joh. 14.1. Let not your heart be troubled, ye beleeue in God, beleeue also in me. 12. verily, verily I say unto you, he that believeth in me, the works that I do, he shall do also, and greater then these shall he do: For I go unto my father. Rom. 9.33.& 10 11.& 1. Peter 2.6. For the scripture saith, who soever believeth in him, shall not be ashamed. Rom. 15.12. And again Isaias saith, There shall be a roote of jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles, in him shall the Gentiles trust. Gal. 2.16. We haue believed in Iesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ. 1. joh. 5.10. He that believeth in the son of God, hath the witness in himself. &c. It is not therefore without cause, that we say that we beleeue in Iesus Christ as well as in God the father, sith that the holy scripture teacheth us to speak in that sort, and thence we gather that he is God. Iesus. Mat. 1.21. And shee shall bring● forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Iesus: for he shall save his people from their sins. luke. 1.31. For lo, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bear a son, and shalt call his name Iesus. Luke 2.10. Be not afraid, for behold, I bring you tidings of great joy, that shall be to all people. 11. That is, that unto you is born this day in the city of david a saviour, which is Christ the Lord. Luk. 19.9. This day is salvation come unto this house, forasmuch as he is also become the son of Abraham. 10. For the son of man is come to seek and save that which was lost. joh. 3.17. For God sent not his son into the world that he should condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved. 18. He that believeth in him shal not be condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he believeth not in the name of the onely begotten son of God. Act. 4.10. Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israell, that by the name of Iesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye haue crucified, whom God raised again from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you, whole. 12. Neither is there salvation in any other: for among men there is given none other name under heaven, whereby we must be saved. Act. 5.30. The God of our fathers hath raised up Iesus, whom ye slay and hanged on a three. 31. Him hath God lift up with his right hand, to be a Prince and a saviour, to give repentance to Israell, and forgiveness of sins. acts. 13, 22. I haue found david the son of jesse, a man after mine own heart, which will do all things that I will. 23. Of this mans seed hath God according to his promise raised up to Israell, that saviour Iesus. 1. Tim. 1.15. This is a true saying, and by all means worthy to be received, that Christ Iesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. Titus. 2, 13. Looking for that blessed hope, and appearing of the glory of the mighty God, and of our saviour Iesus Christ. 14. Who gave himself for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purge us to be a peculiar people unto himself, zealous of good works. 1. John 4.14. And we haue seen& do testify, that the father sent the son to be the saviour of the world. 15. Who soever confesseth that Iesus is the son of God, in him dwelleth God, and he in God. This name Iesus, being taken from the Hebrew tongue signifieth saviour: and the reason wherefore he is so called, is given in the words of the angel: for he shall save his people from their sins. Therefore then by this name, we are admonished that he is our saviour, and that we must not elsewhere seek salvation. Briefly we understand nothing else but that which S. Peter saith in the place before alleged of the Act. 4.12. That which we also here confess, and protest, that all the means which men shall invent, for to attain salvation, are so many abuses. Christ. Psal. 2.1. Why do the heathen rage& the people murmur in vain? 2. The kings of the earth band themselves,& the Princes are assembled together against the Lord, and against his Christ? Psal. 45.8. Heb. 1.9. Thou hast loved righteousness and hated iniquity. Wherefore God even thy God hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellowes. Esai. 61.1. Luke. 4.18. The spirit of the lord is vpon me, because he hath anointed me, that I should preach the gospel to the poor: he hath sent me that I should heal the broken hearted: and 19. And that I should preach the acceptable year of the lord. Daniel. 9.25. Know therefore and understand, that from the going out of the commandement to bring again the people, and to build jerusalem, unto messiah the prince, shal be. 7. weekes,& wherefore and two weekes, and the street shalbe built again, and the wall even in a troublesone time. 26. And after threescoare and two weekes, shall messiah be slain, and shall haue nothing, and the people of the Prince that shall come, shall destroy the city and the sanctuary, and the end thereof shalbe with a flood: and unto the end of the battle it shallbe destroyed by desolation. Act. 4.27. For doubtless, against thine holy son Iesus whom thou hadst anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the people of Israel gathered themselves together. Act. 10.38. To wit, how God anointed Iesus of Nazareth with the holy Ghost, and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil: for God was with him. This word Christ is taken from the greek tongue, and signifieth as much as anointed, and in Hebrew messiah. This word is properly given to our lord to signify the office which was given unto him of his father, to wit, to be a King, Priest and Prophet in his Church. And the word doth import that, forasmuch as those which anciently were called to these three offices, were outwardly anointed with oil. Our lord also was anointed not with visible oil, as the other, but with fullness of the holy Ghost for to administer those three offices. We confess therefore that he is our great King, high Priest, and heavenly Prophet. CHRIST IS THE eternal sovereign and only high priest. Psal. 118.4. The lord swore and will not repent thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchi-zedek. Hebr 3.1. Therefore holy breathren, partakers of the heavenly vocation, consider the Apostle and high Priest of our profession Christ Iesus. 2. Who was faithful to him that hath appointed him, even as moses was in all his house. Heb 4.14. Seeing then that we haue a greater high priest, which is entred into heaven, even Iesus the son of God, let us hold fast our profession. 15. For we haue not an high priest which can not be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, but was in all things tempted in like sort, yet without sin. Heb. 5.5. So likewise Christ took not to himself this honour, to be made the high Priest, but he that said unto him, Thou art my son, this day begot I thee, gave it him. 6. As also in an other place he speaketh. Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchi-zedek. Heb. 6.19. Which we haue as an ancar of the soul both sure& steadfast,& it entereth into that which is within the vail: 02. whither the forrunner is for us entred in, even Iesus that is made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchizedec Heb. 7.20. And forasmuch as it is not without an oath( for these ar made priests without an oath, by him that said unto him, the lord hath sworn, and will not repent thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec) 23. And among them many were made priests, because they were not suffered to endure, by the reason of death. 24, But this man, because he endureth ever, hath an everlasting priesthood, 25. Wherefore, he is able also perfectly to save them that come unto God by him, seeing he euerliueth to make intercession for them. 26. For such a high priest it became us to haue which is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made hier then the heauens. 28. For the lawe maketh them high priestes, which haue infirmity: but the word of the oath that was since the law, maketh the son, who is consecrated for evermore. Heb. 8.1. Now of things which we haue spoken, this is the sum that we haue such an high priest, that sitteth a● the right hand of the throne of the majesty in heauens. 9.11. But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and a more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is not of this building. 12. Neither by the blood of goates& calves: but by his own blood entred he once into the holy place, and obtained eternal redemption for vs. 26. But now in the end hath he appeared once to put away sin, by the sacrifice of himself. 10.12. But this man after he had offered one sacrifice for sins, sitteth at the right hand of God. 13. And from henceforth tarrieth till his enemies be made his footstool. 14. For with one offering hath he consecrated for ever them that are sanctified. He is the high priest, forasmuch as by one only oblation& sacrifice which he offered on the cross of the death of his own body, and the shedding of his own blood, he hath fully and wholly reconciled to God his father, and now sitteth at his right hand for to make intercession for us, and obtain grace and favour for vs. CHRIST IS king having vanquished death, hell, the devill, and the world. Math. 4.3. Then came to him the tempter, and said, If thou be the son of God, command that these stones be made bread. 4. But he answering said, It is written, man shall not live by bread onely, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. 5. Then the devill took him up into the holy city, and set him on the pinnacle. 6. And said unto him, if thou be the son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He will give his angels charge over thee, and with their hands they shall lift thee up, lest at any time thou shouldst dash thy foot against a ston. 7. Iesus said unto him, it is written, thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. 8. again the devill took him up into an exceeding high mountain, and shewed him all the kingedomes of the world,& the glory of them. 9. And said to him, all these will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. 10. Then said Iesus unto him, avoid Satan: for it is written, thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him onely shalt thou serve. 11. Then the devill left him: and behold, the angels came and ministered unto him. John. 12.31. Now is the iudgement of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out. joh. 14.30. hereafter will I not speak many things unto you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nought in me. John 16.11. Of iudgement, because the prince of this world is judged. 33. In the world ye shall haue affliction, but be of go●d comfort: I haue overcome the world. Act. 2.23. Him I say, haue ye taken by the hands of the wicked. 24. Whom God hath raised up, and lowsed the sorrows of death, because it was impossible that he should be holden of it. Rom. 6.9. Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead, death no more: death hath no more dominion over him. 10. For in that he died, he died once to sin: but in that he liveth, he liveth to God. 1. Cor. 15.25. For he must reign till he haue put all his enemies under his feet. 26. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. 54. So when this corruptible hath put on incorruption: and this mortal hath put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying which is written, death is swallowed up into victory. 55. O Death where is thy sting? O grave where is thy victory? 56. The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the Law. 57. But thankes be to God which hath given us victory through our Lord Iesus Christ. Eph. 4.8. Wherefore he saith, when he ascended up on high, he lead captivity captive and gave gifts unto men. Col. 2.13. And ye which were dead in sins, and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, forgiuinge you all your trespasses. 14. And putting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, he even took it out of the way, and fastened it vpon the cross. 15. And hath spoiled the principalities and powers,& hath made a show of them openly, and hath triumphed over them in the same cross. 2. Tim. 1.10. But is now made manifest by the appearing of our saviour Iesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality unto light through the gospel. Hebr. 2.14. Forasmuch then as the children were partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself took part with them, that he might destroy through death, him that had the power of death that is, the devil. 15. And that he might deliver all thē, which for fear of death were all their life time subject to bondage. He is king: for he hath overcome the devill, the world, sin, death, and hell, under whose tyranny wee were holden captives, and are set free by the power of this victorious king, and we are daily defended& preserved under his hand and protection against all our enemies. So that there is nothing that can hurt us: and albeit we are continually and in diverse sorts assaulted, notwithstanding the victory shall always remain unto us, insomuch as we run back to the ensign of this puissant king. IESVS CHRIST IS a Prophet. Deut. 18.15. The Lord thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet like unto me, from among you, even of thy brethren: unt● him ye shall hearken. 18. I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren like ●nto thee and will put my w rd●● 〈◇〉 ●is mouth, and he shall sp●●k● 〈…〉 that I shall 〈…〉 Iere●. 〈…〉 that I will make with the house of Israell. After those dayes, saith the lord, I will put my lawe in their inward partes and writ it in their harts, and will be their God, and they shalbe my people. 34. And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour and every man his brother. &c. Luke. 24.18. Art thou only a stranger in jerusalem, and hast not known the things that are come to pass therein in these dayes. 19. And he said unto them what things? And they said unto him of Iesus of Nazereth, which was a Prophet mighty in deed, and in word before God, and all the people. john. 6.14. Then the men when they had seen the miracle that Iesus did, said. This is of a truth the prophet that should come into the world. john 8.12. I am the light of the world: he that followeth me, shall not walk in darkness, but shall haue the light of life. John. 15.15. But I haue called you friends, for all things that I haue hard of my father haue I made known unto you. Rom. 15.8. now I say that Iesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision, for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers. Tit. 2.11. For the grace of God, that bringeth salvation unto all men, hath appeared. 12. And teacheth us that we should deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, and that we should live soberly and righteously and godly in this present world. Hebr. 1.1. At sundry times and in diverse manners God spake in the old time to our fathers by the prophets. 2. In these last dayes he hath spoken unto us by his son. &c. Our Lord was not a Prophet for this only, that he hath declared unto men the law and will of God as the other prophetes: but also because he hath engraven and imprinted it in their heartes,& gave the holy Ghost to lighten, regenerate and renew them. And hath not onely exercised this office, whiles that he preached himself, and that with his own mouth: but doth yet daily exercise the same, when he giveth the virtue and force to the hartes of men by his holy spirit, to understand and accomplish the will of God, without the which the service of all men, cannot be but a dead letter. His son. Math. 3.17. And lo, a voice came from heaven, saying this is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased. Matth. 14.33. Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, of a truth thou art the son of God. Matth. 16.16. Thou art Christ the son of the living God. Luke. 1.32. He shall be great and shalbe called the son of the most high. John. 1.49. Nathaniel answered& said unto him, Rabbi, thou art the son of God: thou art the king of Israell. John. 6.69. And we believed and know thou art the Christ the son of the living God. 11.27. Yea, Lord, I beleeue that thou art Christ the son of God, which should come into the world. John. 20.31. But these things are written, that ye might beleeue that Iesus is the Christ the son of God,& that in believing ye might haue life through his name. Rom. 1.23, Concerning his son Iesus Christ our lord, which was made of the seed of david according to the flesh. 4. And declared mightily to be the son of God. 2. Cor. 4.4 Col. 1.15. Who is the image of the invisible God, the first born of every creature. 16. For by him were all things created, which are in heaven, and in earth, things visible, and invisible whether they be thrones, or Dominions, or Principalities, or powers, all things were created by him and for him. 17. And he is before all things, and in him all things consist. Hebr. 1.2. In these last dayes he hath spoken unto us, by his son, whom he hath made heir of all things, by whom also he made the world. 3. Who being the brightness of the glory,& the engraven form of his person, and bearing up all things by his mighty word, hath by himself purged our sins and sitteth at the right hand of the majesty in the highest places. 4. And is made so much the more excellent then the angels in as much as he hath obtained a more excellent name then they 5. For to which of the Angels said he at any time. Thou art my son; this day begot I thee? and again, I will be his father, and he shalbe my son. Onely. John. 1.14. And the word was made flesh, and dwelled among us,( and we saw the glory thereof, as the glory of the onely begotten son of the father) full of grace and truth 18. No man hath seen God at any time: the only begotten son which is in the bosom of the father, he hath declared him. john. 3.16. For God so loved the world that he hath given his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him shall not perish, but haue everlasting life. 18. But he that believeth not, is already condemned, because he believeth not in the name of the onely begotten son of God. 1. john. 4.9. In this appeared the love of God towards us, because God sent his onely begotten son into the world, that we might live through him. WE ARE ALSO THE children of God. 1. John 3.1. Behold, what love the father hath shewed on us, that we should be called the sons of God: for this cause the world knoweth you not, be cause it knoweth not me. 2. dearly beloved now are we the sons of God, but yet it doth not appear what we shal be. 1. John 5.1. whosoever believeth that Iesus is the Christ, is born of God. HEREOF you may look for many more places, fol. 40. 41. 42. Albeit the name of son be common to Iesus Christ and to us, so is he called the first born among many brethren, and the first born of all creatures, which is not without a cause, but it is to show, that it is not both for one reason, or in one respect that he and we are called the sons of God, for there is such a difference, that he is the natural son of God, consubstantial,& coeternal with him, and born of his own substance eternally: and wee are not but by grace of adoption, it is to say, that forasmuch as God through his goodness, hath received and chosen us for his children, making us partakers and heires of his goods, as if we were of his family, and born and bred in his own house. Our Lord. Ierem. 30.9. But they shall serve the Lord their God, and david their king, whom I will raise up unto them. ezechiel 30.24. And david my servant shall be king over them. Dan. 7.13. Behold, one like the son of man came in the clouds of heaven, and approached unto the ancient of dayes, and they brought him before him. 14. And he gave him dominion& honour, and a kingdom that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall never be taken away: and his kingdom shall never be destroyed. Mich. 5.2. And thou Bethleem Ephratah, art little to be among the thousands of judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me, that shall be the ruler in Israell. Mat. 11.27. All things are given unto me of my father. Mat. 28.18. All power is given unto me in heaven and in eartb. Luke 1.32. He shall be great, and shall be called the son of the most high, and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father david. 33. And he shall reign over the house of jacob for ever, and of his kingdom shall be none end. Luk. 2.11. That is, that unto you this day is born in the city of david, a saviour, which is Christ the Lord. John. 13.3. Iesus knowing that the father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God and went to God. John. 17 2. As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to all them that thou hast given him. Act. 10.36. Preaching peace by Iesus Christ, which is the Lord of all. Rom. 14.9. For Christ therefore died, and rose again and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead, and of the quick. 1. Corinth. 6.19. And ye are not your own. 20. For ye are bought with a price. 1. Corin. 7.23. Ye are bought with a price, be not the servants of men. 1. Cor. 8.6. Yet unto us there is but one God, which is the father, of whom are all things, and we in him. 1. Cor. 15.25. Heb. 2.8. For he must reign till he hath put all his enemies under his feet. 26. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. 27. For he hath put down all things under his feet. Eph. 11.20. Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his right hand in the heavenly places. 21. far above all principality, and power, and might, and domination, and every name that is name, not in this world onely, but also in that which is to come. 22. And hath made all things subject under his feet, and hath appointed him over all things to be the head to the Church. Phil. 2.9. Wherefore God hath also highly exalted him, and given him a name above every name, that at the name of Iesus should every knee bow, both of things in heaven, and of things in earth, and things under the earth. 11. And that every tongue should confess that Iesus Christ is the Lord, unto the glory of God the father. Coll. 2.9. For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. 10. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power. 1. Pet. 1.18. Knowing that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation, received by the traditions of the fathers. 19. But with the precious blood of Iesus Christ, as with a lamb undefiled, and without spot. Iesus Christ is called master, and Lord, for two reasons: The first is because of his sovereign power, which he hath over all things according to his divinity, inasmuch as he is God. secondarily for the right of redemption, by the which having delivered us from the tyranny of satan, sin, and death, he hath redeemed us, to the end that he might possess us as truly his own,& subject to him. Here therefore we first confess that wee are not our own, nor in our own power, although we are set free from the tyranny of Satan: but we are his, he hath set us free,& hath bought us with his precious blood. secondarily we confess that we owe to him all obedience, and homage, as to our sovereign Lord& master. Which was conceived of the holy Ghost. Math. 1.20. For that which is conceived in her, is of the holy Ghost. Luk 1.35. The holy Ghost shall come vpon thee,& the power of the most high shall overshadow thee. The holy scripture doth attribute to the holy Ghost the conception of our Lord, for to put a difference between the common conception of other men and his. Now this difference doth consist in two points: the one is that although he took his body of the proper natural flesh& of the proper nature of the virgin mary, notwithstanding it was not by the ordinary mean, and common course of nature, that is to say by the operation& seed of man: but by an extraordinary mean, to wit by the virtue of the holy Ghost. The second point is, that he was conceived without sin, without spot or vncleannes: and the conception of all other men is corrupted, spotted, and unclean. And with such a difference ought the son of God to haue been conceived, to wit, with all pureness and holynes, sith that he was the seed of the woman, and of Abraham, which should break the head of the old serpent, and in the which al the nations of the earth should be blessed,& by his blood all our vncleannes& iniquity should be wiped out, and above all, our conception should be sanctified& made clean. born of the virgin mary. Esai. 7.14. Behold a virgin shall conceive and bear a son,& she shal call his name Emanuel. Mat. 1.13. behold a virgin shall be with child, and shall bear a son, and shee shall call his name Emanuel, which is by interpretation, God with vs. Luk. 1.31. For lo, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bear a son, and shalt call his name Iesus. Gal. 4.4. But when the fullness of time was come God sent forth his son made of a woman, and made under the l●w. 5. That he might redeem them which were under the law. Iesus Christ was born of a woman for to show that he was the true seed of the woman, and of Abraham, and of david, that is to say very man formed and framed of the substance of the mother, of whom he was born: flesh of our flesh, and bone of our bone: which was needful that it was so, for that it should be offered for our sinful flesh. And it must haue ben that his mother, was a virgin, for to show and declare, that, that which was done hear, was not of mans invention: but a chief and principal work of God. To the end that on every side one might not see in him but pureness and holynes. suffered under Pontius Pilate. Esai. 53.4. Matth. 8.17. 1. Pet. 2.24. Surely he hath born our infirmities, and carried our sorrows. John. 19.15. Matth. 27 35. Mark. 15.24. Luk. 23.33. Pilate said unto them, shall I crucify your king? the high priestes answered, we haue no king but caesar. 16. Then delivered he him unto them, to be crucified, and they took Iesus and lead him away. 17. And he bare his cross, and came into a place name of dead mens skulls, which is called in Hebrew, Golgotha. Luk. 24.46. Thus it is written, thus it behoved Christ to suffer, &c. Act. 4.27. Psal. 21. For doubtless, against thine holy son Iesus, whom thou hadst anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the people of Israell gathered themselves together. Act. 2.23. Him. I say, haue ye taken by the hands of the wicked, being delivered by the determinate counsel, and foreknowledge of God, and haue crucified and slain. Rom. 5.6. For Christ when we were yet of no strength, at his time, died for the ungodly. 1. Cor. 15.3. For first of all I delivered unto you that which I received, how that Christ died for our sins, according to the scriptures. 2. Cor. 5.15. And he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. Philip. 2.2. fulfil my ioy, that ye be like minded, having the same love, being of one accord, and of one iudgement. 5. Let the same mind be in you that was even in Christ Iesus. 6. Who being in the form of God, thought it no robbery to be equal, with God. 7. But he made himself of no reputation, and took on him the form of a servant, and was made like unto men, and was found in shape at a man. 8. He humbled himself& became obedient unto the death, even the death of the cross. 1. Timoth. 6.13. I charge thee in the sight of God, which quickeneth all things, and before Iesus Christ which under Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession. 14. That thou keep this commandment. 1, Pet. 2.19. For this is thank worthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief suffering wrongfully. 20. For what praise is it, if when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye take it patiently? But and if when ye do well, ye suffer wrong and take it patiently, this is acceptable to God. 21. For hereunto ye are called: for Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example that ye should follow his steps. 22. Who did not sin neither was there guile found in his mouth: 23. Who when he was reviled, reviled not again: when he suffered, he threatened not, but committed it to him, that iudgeth righteously. 1. Peter. 3.18. For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, and was put to death concerning the flesh, but was quickened in the spirit. That which toucheth us most, of all that Iesus Christ did for us on earth, and being conversant among men, it is his death and passion: for by it we are reconciled with God, delivered from the tyrrannie of the devill, restituted and set again in liberty of spirit. So was the reconciliation made, that as God was angered and displeased with us for the fault and transgression of our father Adam, and that he being just can not leave any sin unpunished and that we, so far were from satisfying of his wrath, that we rather augment it because of our corruption and depravation which is in us, and by our continual and ordinary iniquities and enormities. The son of God is come pure, and innocent, that our sins and offences might be laid vpon him, that he might suffer once for us, and that by that means he might pay the ransom,& might make us clean, and that through him we might be absolved of our fault and offence of our pain and punishment and be reconciled to God, having obtained full remission for our sins. butted. Matth. 12.40. For as jonas was in the belly of the whale three dayes and three nights, so shall the son of man be in the heart of the earth three dayes and three nights. Act. 13.29. And when they had fulfilled all things that were written of him, they took him down from the three, and put him in a sepulchre. 1. Cor. 15.4. And that he was butted, &c. Mention is made of his burial for the greater confirmation of his death, and to signify that the mystery of our redemption was accomplished, the wrath and anger of God appeased, and peace made between him and vs. For our redemption dependeth wholly of his death: that if one did but once doubt of his death, the whole redemption should bring in suspense. To take away therefore all doubt, he would be butted. He descended into hell. Esaias. 53.10. Yet the Lord would break him, and make him subject to infirmities: when he shall make his soul an offering for sin: and 12. Therefore will I give him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong, because he hath powred out his soul unto death. Matth 26.38. Then said Iesus unto them, My soul is very heavy, even unto the death: tarry ye here and watch with me. Luk. 22.44. But being in an agony, he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was like drops of blood, trickling down to the ground. john. 12.27. Now is my soul troubled, and what shall I say, father, save me from this hour: but therefore came I into this hour. I. Pet. 3.19. By the which he also went and preached unto the spirites that were in prison. I. Pet. 4.6 For unto this purpose was he preached unto the deade, that they might be condemned, according to men in the flesh, but might live according to God in the spirit. This is expounded after two sorts. Some understand by this descending into hell, a true feeling of the pains of death, and an horror and fear of the terrible wrath and severe iudgement of God. Iesus Christ therefore hath felt and experimented the great distress of death and together the pains of hell, that is to say the wrath and curse of God: the which feeling hath penetrated unto the very depth of his heart, and unto his soul, and bread unto him extreme torments and troubles, with an vncustomable fear. Which was necessary, for otherwise he could not thoroughly satisfy for vs. Others understand that by this is signified that the virtue and force of the death and passion of Iesus Christ is come even unto the dead, which by the divine virtue haue felt the fruit of the redemption made in in his blood. According to the first exposition, we confess that Iesus Christ hath thoroughly satisfied for us, and hath left nothing which was necessary for to appease the wrath and anger of God, to satisfy his iustice and to give full remission of sins. According unto the second we confess that not onely we which come after the death of Iesus Christ, do feel, the force and efficacy but also they which departed before, and dyed in the faith in the messiah promised, haue been saved by the virtue of his blood which was shed. The third day he rose again from death. Math. 20.18. Behold, we go up to jerusalem, and the son of man shall be delivered unto the chief Priestes, and unto the scribes, and they shall condemn him to death. 19. But the third day he shall rise again. Mat. 28.6. He is not here, for he is risen, as he said: come see the place where the Lord was laid. Act. 2.24. Whō God hath raised up, and lowsed the sorrows of death, because it was impossible that he should be holden of it. 31. He knowing this before, spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul, that is, his person, should not be left in grave, neither his flesh should see corruption. Act. 10.40. Him God raised up the third day, and caused that he was shewed openly. Act. 13.30. But God raised him up from the dead. Act. 13.32. And we declared unto you, that touching the promise made unto the fathers. 33. God hath fulfilled it unto us their children, in that he raised up Iesus, even as it is written in the second psalm. Thou art my son: this day haue I begotten thee. 34. Now as concerning that he raised him up from the dead, no more to return to the grave, he hath said thus, I will give you the holy things of david, which are faithful. Rom. 1.4. And declared mightily to be the son of God, touching the spirit of sanctification by the resurrection from the dead. Rom. 4.25. Who was delivered to death for our sins, and is risen again for our justification. Rom. 6.4. That like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the father, so we also should walk in newness of life. 1. Cor. 15.14. And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. 17. Ye are yet in your sins. 18. And so they which are a sleep in Christ, are perished. 2. Cor. 13.4. For though he was crucified concerning his infirmity, yet liveth he through the power of God. Coll. 2.18. 1. Cor. 15.20. Rom. 8.17. He is the beginning, and the first born of the dead, that in all things he might haue the pre-eminence. 1. Pet. 1.3. Blessed be God, even the father of our Lord Iesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Iesus Christ from the dead. 4. To an inheritance immortal and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you. &c. 21. God raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory, that your faith& hope might be in God. Of the resurrection of our Lord, mention is made among the principal points, whereon our faith is grounded, for as much as in it his glory was made manifest, and his majesty, and he thereby was declared to be the true son of God. All his life long he was conversant in great humility, and baseness, shewing the infirmity, wherewith he was environed for a time as that he was born in a stable, that in all his life he was as an artificer, or mechanical person, and above all that in fine, he was hated and abhorred of all, enemy to each one, defigured with buffets& spittinges, crwoned with thorns, hanged between two theeues, as though he had been the most detestable that ever was, or was known. by the which means he became an offence to men, even unto his own disciples. But behold the resurrection, which is a certain testimony of his force and virtue, and here with all a sure hope, yea, the very pledge and gauge of our life and resurrection, inasmuch as it is the triumph of the victory which he had over death, whereby he spoiled himself of all infirmity, and shewed himself to be the true son of God, and master both of life and death. So that his present majesty ought rather to make us hope, then his past infirmitye to make us cold. moreover he is not risen again onely for the assurance of our life, health and salvation: but also to the end that his resurrection might be the fountain and roote of our life and health. For although that eternally he hath been ordained, constituted and appointed to be the life& health of his brethren, and that by his death, he had merited this right, yet so it is, that by his resurrection he entred into full possession, hath or enioieth it throughly, being received according to his humanity, into glory, in the which he was before the creation of the world, according to his divinity. He ascended into heaven. Luk. 24.51. And it came to pass that as he blessed them, he departed from them, and was carried up into heaven. acts. 1.9. And when he had spoken these things, while they beholded, he was taken up: for a cloud took him up out of their sight. 10. And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven, as he went behold, two men stood by them in white apparel. 11. Which also said, ye men of galilee, why stand ye gazing into heaven? this Iesus which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come, as ye haue seen him go into heaven. Act. 3.21. Whom the heaven must contain until the time, that all things be restored, which God hath spoken by the mouth of his holy Prophetes since the world began. Eph. 4 8. Wherefore he saith, when he ascended up on high, he lead captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. 9 Now in that he ascended, what is it but that he had also descended first into the lowest partes of the earth? 10. He that descended, is even the same that ascended, far above all heauens, that he might fill all things. Phil. 2.9. WVherefore God hath also highly exalted him, and given him a name above every name. 10. That at the name of Iesus every knee should bow, both of things in heaven, and things in earth. 11. And that every tongue should confess, that Iesus Christ is the Lord, unto the glory of God the father. Hebr. 4.14. Seing then that we haue a great high Priest, which is entred into heaven, even Iesus the son of God, let us hold fast our profession. Hebr. 7.26. For such an high Priest it became us to haue, which is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher then the heauens. Hebr. 9.24. For Christ is not entred into the holy places made with hands, which are similitudes of the true sanctuary: but is entred into very heaven, to appear now in the sight of God for vs. Iesus Christ, until the day of his ascention, was conversant in the world, through his corporal presence, but afterward he was quiter taken away, so that we must not search any more, or look for him, before the iudgement day. For God hath there appointed him his abiding, until he shall come to judge the quick and the dead. And so it became it to be done, to the end to withdraw us from all opinion& carnal confidence, that we might haue in him. For otherwise they had tied his virtue and power to his corporal presence. But we must seek Iesus Christ in heaven not in earth, spiritually not carnally, by faith not by our senses, and it is by the onely virtue of his spirit, that he doth communicate& partake himself unto us,& not otherwise. More over by this his entry into heaven, he hath made plain unto us the way, and doth assure us that the gate is already open unto us: the which was shut and made vnaccessable by the sin of man. But now Iesus Christ having penetrated the heauens with our flesh, the which he carried with him, as a gauge or pledge, is there as our proctor& pleader, holding the place and possession for vs. And sitteth that the right hand of God the father. Psal. 110.1. Act. 2.34. The Lord said unto my Lord, sit thou at my right hand until I make thine enemies thy footstool. Mar. 16.19. So after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received into heaven, and sate at the right hand of God. acts. 7.55. But he being full of the holy Ghost, looked steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Iesus standing at the right hand of God. Rom. 8.34. Who shall condemn? It is Christ which is dead, yea, or rather which is risen again, who is also at the right hand of God, and maketh request also for vs. Ephe. 1.19. And what is the exceeding greatness of his power towards us, which beleeue according unto the working of his mighty power. 20. Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him up from the dead, and set him at his right hand in the heavenly places. 21. far above all principality and power, and might, and domination, and every name that is name, not not in this world onely, but also in that which is to come. Col. 3.1. If thē ye be risen with Christ, seek those things that are above, where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God. Hebr. 8.1. We haue such an high Priest, that sitteth at the right hand of the throne of the majesty in heauens. Hebr. 10.12. But this man after he had offered one sacrifice for sins, sitteth for ever at the right hand of God. 13. And from hence forth tarrieth, till his enemies be made his footstool. Hebr. 12.2. And is set at the right hand of the throne of God. Iesus Christ sitteth at the right hand of God, as king( that is to say, that he hath obtained the Empire everlasting, to the which all things both those which are above in heaven, and those things which are here below on earth, are subject unto him) as head of his Church, the which he maintaineth and conducteth by the virtue and force of his spirit) and as our advocate and intercessor, reconciling to us the father, and turning from us his terrible face, giuing us free access unto him, and obtaining for us grace and favour. And from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead. Mat. 16.27. For the son of man shal come in the glory of his father with his angels, and then shall be given to every man according to his deeds. Mat. 25.31. And when the son of man cometh in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit vpon the throne of his glory. 32. And before him shall be gathered all nations, and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd separateth the sheep from the goates. 33. And he shall set the sheep on his right hand& the goates on the left. 34. Then shall the King say to them on his right hand, Come ye blessed of my father, inherit ye the kingdom prepared for you from the foundations of the world. 41. Then shall he say to them on his left hand, depart from me ye cursed, into everlasting fire, which is prepared for the devill and his angels. John. 5.22. For the Father iudgeth no man, but hath committed all judgements unto the son. 23. Because that all men should honour the son, as they honour the father: he that honoureth not the son, the same also honoureth not the father, which sent him. 27. And given him also power to execute iudgement, in that he is the son of man. acts. 10.42. And he commanded us, saith Peter, to preach unto the people, and to testify, that it is he, that is ordained of God, a judge of quick and dead. Act. 17.31. Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness, by that man, whom he hath appointed, whereof he hath given an assurance to all men, in that he hath raised him up from the dead. Rom. 14.10. For we shall all appear before the iudgement seat of Christ 11. For it is written, I live, saith the Lord, and every knee shall bow to me, and all tongues shall confess unto God. 2. Cor. 5.10. For we must all appear before the iudgment seat of Christ, that every man may receive the things which are done in his body, according to that which he hath done, whether it be good or evil. Hebr. 9, 28. So Christ was once offered to take away the sins of many, and unto them that look for him, shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation. we beleeue and confess that Iesus Christ shall come in the end of the world visibly, and corporally, in the same body, the same flesh, and the same substance, that he departed hence, notwithstanding with great glory and magnificence, to do the last iudgement. For even as he was ordained of God his father, to be a mediator, saviour, and redeemer, as long as the world shall last: also he was constituted chief judge in the later end, both of the quick, and dead. And then shall the elect& chosen be gathered into the heavenly and celestial kingdom, receiving the crown of glory. Then also shall the reprobate receive the hier of their iniquity. I beleeue in the holy Ghost. job. 26, 13. His spirit hath garnished the heauens. Ioell. 2.28. Act. 2.17. I will poure out my spirit vpon all flesh. Math. 3.11. Iesus will baptize you with the holy Ghost and with fire. Math. 10.20. For it is not ye that speak, but the spirit of your father which speaketh in you. Mat. 18.19. Go therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and the son, and the holy Ghost. Mar, 3.28. All sins shall be forgiven unto the children of men, and blasphemies, wherewith the● blaspheme. 29. But he that blasphemeth against the holy Ghost, shall never haue forgiveness, but is culpable of eternal damnation. Luke 24 49. And behold, I will sand the promise of my father vpon you: but tarry here in the city of jerusalem, until ye be endowed with power from an high. joh. 3.5. Except that a man be born of water and of the spirit, he can not enter into the kingdom of God. 8. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell, whence it cometh, and whither i● goeth: so is every man that is born of the spirit. joh. 14.15. If thou love me, keep my commandments. 16. And I will pray the father, and he shall give you an●ther comforter, that he may abide with you for ever. 17. even the spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him? but ye know him, for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. 26. But the Comforter which is the holy Ghost, whom the father will sand in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, which I haue told you. John 15.26 But when the Comforter shall come, whom I will sand unto you from the father, even the spirit of truth, which proceedeth of the father, he shall testify of me. 27. And ye shall witness also, because ye haue ben with me from the beginning. John. 16.7 For if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you: but if I depart, I will sand him unto you. 8. And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of iudgement. 9. Of sin, because they beleeue not in me. 10. Of righteousness, because I go to my father,& ye shall see me no more. 11. Of iudgment, because the Prince of this world is judged. 13. Howbeit, when he is come, which is the spirit of truth, he will lead you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself, but what so ever he shall hear, shall he speak, and he will show you the things to come. Act. 1.4. And when he had gathered them together, he commanded them, that they should not depart from jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the father, which, said he, ye haue heard of me. 5. For John in dead baptized with water, but ye shall be baptized with the holy Ghost within these few dayes. Rom. 8.9. If any man hath not the spirit of Christ, the same is not his. 14. For as many as are lead by the spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 16. The same spirit beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God. 1. Cor. 2.10. But God hath revealed them unto us by his spirit: for the sp●rit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. 11. For what man knoweth the things of a man which is in him? even so the things of God, knoweth n● man, but the spirit of God. 12. Now we haue received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God, that we might know the things that are given to us of God. 1. Cor. 12.3. Wherefore, I declare unto you, that no man speaking by the spirit of God, calleth Iesus execrable: also no man can say that Iesus is the Lord, but by the holy Ghost. To call Christ execrable, it is to speak blasphemy against him: and to call him Lord, it is to speak of him with reverence and honour. 4. Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same spirit. 11. And all these things worketh even the self same spirit, distributinge to every man severally, as he will. 13. For by one spirit are wee all baptized into one body, whether we be Iewes or Gentiles. Gal. 4.6. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the spirit of his son into your heartes, which crieth Abba, Father. In confessing the person of the holy Ghost we protest that we will put our trust in him, as in the true God: And therein we presuppose that he is the true God: for we can not without sacrilege put our trust but in God alone. He is called holy, for to discern and separate him from other spirites, as well good as evil. He differeth from the evil, forasmuch as he is altogether holy, or rather all holynes itself: the other in the contrary side haue no holynes at all, but all wickedness and vncleannes. He differeth also from the good: for although they be holy, it is not notwithstanding with the like holynes. They haue it not of themselves but they borrow it: but to the holy Ghost it is both natural and substantial. He is also called holy because of his effect, which is to sanctify us, that is to say to purify us and make us clean, to consecrate and dedicate us to God, separating us from all sinful and wicked custom, from all profane and common practise, to make us onely serve God alone. The holy catholic church. Psal. 22.23. I will declare thy name unto my breathren: in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee, saying. 25. My praise shall be of thee in the great congregation. my vows will I perform before them that fear him. Psal. 35.18, So will I give thee thanks in a great congregation: and will praise thee among much people. Psal. 68.26. Praise ye God in the assemblies, and the Lord, ye which are of the fountain of Israell. Psal. 107.32. And let them exalt him in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assemblies of the elders. Psal. 149.1. Sing you unto the Lord a new song, let his praise be heard in the congregation of Sainctes. Mich. 4.1. But in the last dayes it shall come to pass, that the mountain of the house of the Lord shalbe prepared in the top of the mountaines,& it shalbe exalted above the hills,& the people shall flow unto it. 2. Yea, many nations shall come and say, come and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, and to the house of God of jacob, and he will teach us his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for the law shall go forth of Sion, and the word of the Lord from jerusalem. Matth. 16.18. And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter, and vpon this rock I will build my church: and the gates of hell shall not overcome it. Matth. 18.15. moreover if thy brother trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault, between thee and him alone: if he hear thee, thou hast won thy brother. 16. But if he hear thee not; take yet with thee one or two, that by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be confirmed. 17. And if he will not vouchsaue to hear thee, tell it unto the Church: And if he refuse to hear the Church also, let him be unto thee, as a heathen man, and a publican. joh. 10.16. Other sheep I haue also, which are not of this fold: thē also must I bring, and they shall hear my voice: and there shal be one sheepfold, and one shepherd. John 11.51. He prophesied that Iesus should die for the nation: And not for the nation onely, but that he should gather together in one, the children of God, which were scattered. Rom. 12.4. For as we haue many members in one body, and all members haue not one office. 5. So we being many, are one body in Christ, and every one, one an others members. 1. Cor. 12.12. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of the body, which is one though they be many, yet are but one body, even so is Christ. The name of Christ is here put for the church: and it is a place full of consolation and comfort sith he calleth the church Christ. 13. For by one spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Iewes or Grecians, whether we be bond or free,& haue all been made to drink into one spirit. Ephes. 2.19. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and forenners, but citizens with the Sainctes,& of the household of God. 20. And are built vpon the foundation of the Apostles and prophets, Iesus Christ himself being the chief corner ston. 21. In whom all the building coupled together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: 22. In whom ye also are built together, to be the habitation of God by the spirit. Ephes. 4.11. He therefore gave some to be Apostles, and some Prophets, and some evangelists, and some pastours and teachers. 12. For the gathering together of the Sainctes, for the work of the ministery, and for the edification of the body of Christ. 13. Till we all meet together( in the unity of faith and knowledge of thee son of God) unto a perfect man, and unto the measure of the age of the fullness of Christ. Eph. 5.22. behooves submit yourselves unto your husbands, as unto the lord, 23. For the husband is the wives head, even as Christ is the head of the Church, and the same is the saviour of his body. 24. Therfore as the Church is in subiection to Christ, even so let the wives be to their husbands in every thing. 25. husbands, love your wives, even as Christ loved the Church, and gave himself for it. 26. That he might sanctify it, and cleanse it by the washing of water through the word. 27. That he might make it unto himself a glorious Church, not having spot or wrinkle, or any such thing, but that it should be holy and without blame. Col. 1.12. Giuing thankes unto the father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the Sainctes in light. 13. Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear son. Coll. 3.14. And above all things put one love which is the bond of perfectness. 15. And let the peace of God rule in your heartes, to the which ye are called in one body, and be amiable. 1. Tim. 2.15. But if I tarry long, that thou maiest yet know, how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, and the pillar and ground of truth. Heb. 3.6. But Christ is as a son over his own house, whose house we are, if we hold fast the confidence and rejoicing of hope unto the end. Heb. 12.22. But ye are come unto the mount Sion, and to the city of the living God, the celestial jerusalem, and to the company of innumerable Angels. 23. And to the congregation of the first born, which are written in heaven, and to God the judge of all, and to the spirits of just and perfect men. 24. And to Iesus the mediator of the new testament, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things then that of Abell. 1. Peter. 2.3. Yf so be that ye haue tasted how bountiful the Lord is. 4. To whom ye come as unto a living ston disallowed of men, but chosen of God and precious. 5. And ye as lively stones, be made a spiritual house,& a holy priesthood to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God by Iesus Christ. 9. But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people, that ye should show forth the virtue of him, that hath called you, out of darkness into his marvelous light. Touching this article which is of the church, we confess three things: The one is, that there is a church, that is to say, an assembly of Christians, and faithful believers, which are united and joined together as in one body, under one head, which is Iesus Christ, and they which do feel and prove by faith all things which we haue confessed God the father, the son,& the holy Ghost. That there is but one onely true church, that is to say which is of god: For albeit there are many churches, that is to say assemblies& congregations& companies of people following their superstitions, as of the Iewes of the Turkes, and of the Pagans, and of other heretics, yet notwithstanding they are not true churches, but conventicles, factions& synagogues of Satan, in the which there is no true unity, because they are made without the word of God, without the which there is no true unity, foundation, or any true accord. The third, that we are of this society, being partakers of all those things which appertain to the same. And she is then called holy: and the reason was given in the fore alleged place to the Ephes. 5.26. catholic. for as much as there is no more distinction of people or nations, Gal 3.28. and Col. 3.11. OF THE TWO sacramental signs of the Church instituted and ordained by Iesus Christ. Among the Iewes in old time according to the lawe there were many Sacramentes: unto the imitation of the which the papists haue forged and feigned unto the number of seven. But the church of Iesus Christ acknowledging and following the voice of her spouse and master, receiveth but two, the which although they be in a small number, notwithstanding they are great and excellent in signification, and mighty in force, virtue, power, and efficacy. And albeit they consist in things visible and corruptible, yet for all that, they are according to their institution and ordinance, certain and sure signs and testimonies of the good will of God toward us, by the which he doth seal his promises in our consciences, for the confirmation of our faith, with a renewing of our dueties towards God. The two Sacramentes are, baptism, and the lords supper. OF baptism. Math. 3.11. In deed I baptize you with water to amendment of life, but he that cometh after me, is mightier then I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear, he will baptize you with the holy Ghost, and with fire. Mat. 28.19. Go therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the son, and the holy Ghost. mark. 16.16. He that shall believe and be baptized, shall be saved: but he that will not beleeue, shall be damned. Rom. 6.3. Know ye not, that all we which haue been baptized into Iesus Christ, haue been baptized into his death? 4. We are butted then with him by baptism into his death, that like as Christ was raised up from the dead, by the glory of the father, so we also should walk in newness of life. Gal. 3.27. For all ye that are baptized into Christ, haue put on Christ. Eph. 5.26. That he might sanctify it, and cleanse it by the washing of water, through the word. 27. That he might make it unto himself a glorious Church, not having spot or wrinkle, or any such thing: but that it should be holy and without blame. Collos. 2.11. In whom also ye are circumcised with circumcision made without hands, by putting of the sinful body of the flesh, through the circumcision of Christ. 12. In that ye are butted with him through baptism, in whom ye are also raised up together through the faith of the operation of God, which raised him from the deade. Tit. 3.5. Not by the works of righteousness, which we had done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of the new birth,& the renewing of the holy Ghost. 1. Pet. 3.21. To the which also the figure which now saveth us, even baptism agreeth( not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but that a good conscience maketh request to God) by the resurrection of Iesus Christ. baptism is celebrated in water, in the name of the Father, and of the son, and of the holy Ghost: by the which we are received solemnelie into the alliaunce of God, and society of the Church, for to be reputed the children of God: in the which also we are assured of the remission of our sins, with a signification of repentance( that is to say, the mortification of our old man, and the renouncing of ourselves) which God requireth of us through all our life long, and we do bind ourselves to follow it, as he hath begun it in us, for to walk in newness of life. The water was the rather chosen in this use, for the agreement and likeness therein, that is, that even as by the sprinklinge of the water, our bodies are made clean from their filthiness and spots, also God doth the like in our souls, in the blood of Iesus Christ, by the virtue of the holy Ghost to wit, that it washeth them from all sin, and doth regenerate them in a better life. OF THE TABLE AND Supper of our Lord. mark. 14.22. Luke. 22.19. And he took bread, and when he had given thankes, he broke it, and gave to them, saying, This is my body, which is given for you: do this in remembrance of me. 20. Likewise also after supper, he took the cup, saying, This cup is the new testamt in my blood, which is shed for you. Math. 26.26. And as they did eat, Iesus took the bread, and when he had given thankes, he broke it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat: this is my body. 27. Also he took the cup, and when he had given thankes, he gave it them saying, drink ye all of it: 28. For this is my blood of the new testament, that is shed for many, for the remission of sins. 29. I say unto you, that I will not drink hence forth of this fruit of the vine, until that day, when I shall drink it new with you, in my fathers kingdom. 30. And when they had song a psalm, they went out into the mount of Oliues. 1. Cor. 10.16. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? 17. For we that are many, are one bread and one body, because we all are partakers of one bread. 1. Cor. 11.23. For I haue received of the Lord that, which I also haue delivered unto you, to wit, that the Lord Iesus in the night that he was betrayed, took bread. 24. And when he had given thankes, he broke it, and said, Take, eat, this is my body, which is broken for you: this do ye in remembrance of me. 25. After the same maner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, this cup is the new testament in my blood: this do as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. 26. For as often as ye shall eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye show the Lords death till he come. 27. Wherefore, whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink the cup of the Lord vnworthely, shall be guilty of the body& blood of the Lord. 28. Let a man therefore examine himself, and so let him eat of this bread, and drink of this cup. 29. For he that eateth and drinketh vnworthely, eateth and drinketh his own damnation, because he discerneth not the lords body. The Supper of the lord, is set forth unto us in bread and wine, under the which, we receive the very body and blood of the Lord Iesus: forasmuh as being here in earth, we ascend by faith into heaven, even unto him,& being members of his body, we are made partakers of all his riches. And it is the rather given unto us under these two kindes, then under any others, first to signify unto us, that even as these two elements being eaten corporally, and being received into the stomach, do nourish our bodies to a natural life: so likewise the body of Iesus Christ, inasmuch as it was offered up on the cross, and his blood, inasmuch as it was shed, when they are received by faith, do nourish our souls to everlasting life. secondarily to admonish and warn us, of the unity and fraternity, that we which eat all of one bread, and drink all of one cup, should be totogether all, as members of one body, under the head Iesus Christ. That is to wit, that as in one loaf of bread many grains of wheat are mingled and meddled together: and also in the wine many grapes, which can not be discerned one from another, that we likewise also ought to be united and knit together through charity and brotherly love, that there might be no debate, no dissension, no rancour, no malice, no hatred nor partiality. The use of the Sacrament is not to be kept, shut up in a box or armorie, or to be shewed over the shoulders, or to be played withall on a table, or to be carried, or lead up and down the streets: but it must be eaten and drunken, not in a corner secretly, or privately, but in an open assembly, distributinge it together among all. OF EXCOMMVNICATIon, of the keys, and power of the Church. Mat. 18.15. Luke 17.3. moreover, if thy brother trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee& him alone: if he hear thee, thou hast won thy brother. 16. But if he hear thee not, take yet with thee one or two, that by the mouth of two or three witnesses, every word may be confirmed. 17. And if he will not vouchsafe to hear thee, tell it to the Church: and if he refuse to hear the Church also, let him be unto thee as an heathen man, and a publican. 1. Cor. 5.3. For I verily as absent in body, but present in spirit, haue determined already as though I were present, that he that hath thus done this thing, 4. When ye are gathered together, and my spirit, in the name of our Lord Iesus Christ, that such one, I say, by the power of our Lord Iesus Christ, 5. Be delivered unto Satan, for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of our lord Iesus. 11. But now I haue written unto you, that ye company not together: If any that is called a brother, be a fornicator, or covetous, or an Idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extorcioner, with such one eat not. 2. Cor. 2.6. It is sufficient unto the same man, that he was rebuked of many. 7. So that now contrariwise, ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest the same should be swallowed up with overmuch heaviness. 8. Wherefore, I pray you, that you would confirm your love toward him. 2. Thess. 3.14. If any man obey not our sayings, note him by a letter, and haue no company with him, that he may be ashamed. 15. Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother. 1. Tim. 1.20. Of whom is Himeneus, and Alexander, whom I haue delivered unto Satan, that they might learn not to blaspheme. Tit. 3.10. reject him that is an heretic, after once or twice admonition. 11. Knowing that he tha● is such, is perverted, and sinneth being damned of his own self. Excommunication, which is a sentence of punishment, lawfully given and pronounced, by those which haue this charge of the Church, that is to say, by the assembly of elders lawfully ordained, is necessary to the Church. First because it was instituted and ordained by our Lord Iesus Christ, and afterward continually practised, not only by the Apostles, and in the time of the faithless and vnbeleeuinge Princes: but also a great deal more under Christian Princes, throughout the primitive and ancient Church, without any contradiction or gainsaying. Secondarily, forasmuch as experience doth teach& show us, that it is impossible to maintain& keep the Church pure without this order established of the Lord, against the unruly and incorrigible: as also the politic& civil estate can not be kept long, if the magistrate punish not the offendoures. OF THE ESTATE AND office of the Church, as well in particular as in general. Rom. 12.3. For I say, through the grace that is given unto me, to every one that is among you, that no man presume to understand above that, which is meet to understand, but that he understand according to sobriety, as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. 4. For as we haue many members in one body, and all members haue not one office. 5. So we being many, are one body in Christ, and every one, one anothers members. 6. seeing then that we haue gifts that are diuers, according to the grace that is given unto us, whether we haue prophesy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of our faith. 7. Or an office, let us wait on the office: or he that teacheth, on teaching. 8. Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that distributeth, let him do it with simplicity: he that ruleth, with diligence: he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness. 1. Cor. 12.4. Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same spirit. 5. And there are diversities of administrations, but the same Lord. 6. And there are diversities of operations, but God is the same that worketh all in all. 7. Bu the manifestation of the spirit is given to every man, to profit withall. 8. For to one is given by the spirit the word of wisdom: and to another the word of knowledge, by the same spirit. 9. And to another is given faith, by the same spirit, and to another the gifts of healinge by the same spirit. 10. And to another the operation of great works:& to another prophecy: and to another the discerning of spirits: and to another diversity of tongues:& to another the interpretation of tongues. 11. And all these things worketh even the self same spirit, distributinge to every man as he will. Ephes. 4.11. He therefore gave some to be Apostles, and some Prophets, and some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers. 12. For the gathering together of the Sainctes, for the work of the ministry, and for the edification of the body of Christ. 13. Till we all meet together in the unity of faith& knowledge of the son of God, unto a perfect man, and unto the measure of the age of the fullness of Christ. 1. Pet. 4.10. Let every man as he hath received the g●fte, minister the same one to another, as good disposers of the manifold grace of God 11. If any man speak, let him talk as the words of God, if any man minister, let him do is, as of the ability which God ministereth, that God in all things may be glorified through Iesus Christ, to whom is praise and dominion, for ever, and ever. Amen. God, albeit that by himself he could haue guided and governed his Church, without using any external mean, as well as he could nourish and preserve man without corporal food, he, notwithstanding herein would use the ministry of man. Wherefore he hath ordained certain offices to which appertaineth all the administration of the Church, whose authority and ministry we cannot contemn without the contempt of Gods ordinance, and without rebellion against God, by whose ordinance,& in whose name they speak. Now they, whom he hath appointed for such a charge, may be divided principally into four sorts, to wit, ministers, deacons, elders& magistrates. OF THE OVERSEER Otherwise called the Bishop or minister of the word. Mat. 20.25. Therefore Iesus called them unto him and said, ye know that the lords of the Gentiles haue domination over them,& they that are great, exercise authority over them. 26. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your servant. 27. And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant. 28. even as the son of man came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life for the ransom of many. 1. Cor. 3.5. Who is paul then? or who is Apollos, but the ministers by whom ye believed, and as the lord gave to every man. 6. I haue planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. 8. And he that planteth, and he that watreth, are one, and every man shall receive his wages according to his labour. 9. For we together, are Gods labourers: ye are Gods husbandry, and Gods building. 1. Tim. 3.2. A Bishop therefore must he vnreproueable, the husband of one wife, watching, sober, modest, harberous, apt to teach. 3. Not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre, but gentle, no fighter, not covetous, 4. One that can rule his own house honestly, having children under obedience with all honesty. 5. For if any can not rule his own house, how shall he care f●r the Church of God? 6. He may not be a young scholar, lest he being pussed up fall into the condemnation of the devill. 7. He must also be well reported of, even of them which are without, lest he fall into rebuk, and the snare of the devill. 1. Timot. 5.17. The elders that rule well, are worthy of double honour, specially they which labour in the word& doctrine. 18. For the Scripture saith, Thou shalt not mussel the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn: and, The labourer is worthy of his wages. 19. Against an elder receive no accusation, but under two or three witnesses. 22. Lay hands sodainelie on no man, neither be partaker of other mennes sins, keep thyself pure. 2, Tim. 2.24. But the servant of the Lord must not strive, but must be gentle toward all men, apt to teach, suffering the evil men patiently. 25. Instructing them with meekness that are contrary minded, prouinge if God at any time will give them repentance, that they may know the truth. 26. And that they may come to amendment out of the snare of the devill, which are taken of him at his will. 2. Tim. 4.2 Preach the word: be instant, in season, and cut of season, improve, rebuk, exhort, with all suffering, and doctrine, Titus 1.5. For this cause left I thee in Creta, that thou shouldst continue to redress the things that remain,& shouldst ordain Elders in every city, as I appointed thee. 6. If any be vnreproueable, the husband of one wife, having faithful children, which are not slandered of riot, nether are disobedient. 7. For a Bishop must be vnreproueable, as Gods steward, not froward, not angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre. 8. But harberous, one that loveth goodness, wise, righteous, holy, temperate. 9. holding fast the faithful word, according to doctrine, that he also may be able to exhort with wholesome doctrine, and improve them that say against it. 1. Pet. 5.2. feed the flock of God, which dependeth vpon you, caring for it, not by constraint, but willingly, not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind 3. Not as though ye were lords over Gods heritage, but that ye may be exsamples to the flock. 4. And when the chief shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive an incorruptible crown of glory. OF THE DEACON OR provider of the Church. Act. 61. And in those dayes, as the number of the disciples grew, there arose a murmuringe of the Grecians towards the Hebrewes, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministering 2. Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples together, and said, it is not meet that we should leave the word of God to serve the tables. 3. Wherefore brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, and full of the holy Ghost, and of wisdom, which we may appoint to this business. 4. And we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the mistration of the word. 5. And the saying pleased the whole multitude, and they choose even a man full of faith and of the holy Ghost. &c. 1. Tim. 3.8. Likewise must Deacons be honest, not double tongued, not given unto much wine, neither to filthy lucre. having the ministry of faith in a pure conscience. 10. And let them first be proved: then let them minister, if they be found blameless. 11. Likewise their wives must be honest, not evil speakers, but sober, and faithful in all things. 12. Let the Deacons be the husbands of one wife,& such as can rule their children well, and their own houshouldes. 13. For they that haue ministered well, get themselves a good degree, and liberty in the faith, which is great in Christ Iesus. THE OFFICE OF ELders in the church. Numb. 11.16. Then the Lord said unto moses, gather together unto me seuentie men of the Elders of Israell, whom thou knowest, that they are the elders of the people, and gouernours over them, and bring them into the Tabernacle of the congregation, and let them stand there with thee. 17. And I will come down and talk with thee, and take of the spirit, which is vpon thee, and put vpon them, and they shall bear the burden of the people with thee: so thou shalt not bear it alone. Rom. 12.8. He that ruleth let him do it with diligence. 1. Cor. 12.28. And God hath ordained some in the Church. &c. 1. Timoth. 5.17. The elders that rule well, are worthy of double honour, specially they which labour in the word& doctrine The Ministers are those which are occupied in the doctrine to teach, to reprove, to comfort, and to exhort as well publicly as privately, to whom also it appertaineth to say the common prayers. The deacons are they which the church appointeth to distribute alms of the churches goods, and to haue a care for the poor, and to attend the sick. The elders are they which being joined to the ministers by the common consent of the whole church do watch over the manners of men, for the conservation of the discipline, and for the correction of vices, which do make the Senate or consistory of the Church. OF principality and of the Magistrate. Exod. 18.21. moreover provide among all the people men of courage, fearing God, dealing truly, hating covetousness: and appoint such over them to be rulers over thousands, rulers over hundreds, rulers over fifties, and rulers over ten. 22. And let them judge the people at all seasons: but every great matter let them bring unto thee,& let them judge all small causes: so shall it be easier for thee, when they shal bear the burden with the 23. If thou do this thing,(& God so command thee) both thou shalt be able to endure, and all this people shall also go quietly to their place. Exod. 22.28. Thou shalt not rail vpon the iudges, neither speak evil of the rulers of thy people. Deutr. 1.15. So I took the chief of the tribes, wise and known men, and made them rulers over you, captaines over thousands, and captaines over handmaides, and captaines over fifty, and captaines over ten, and officers among your tribes. 26. And I charged your iudges that same time, saying, hear the controversies between your breathren, and judge righteously between every man, and his brother, and the stranger that is with him. 17. Ye shall haue no respect of person in iudgment, but shall hear the small as well as the great: ye shall not fear the face of man: for the iudgement is Gods, and the cause that is to hard for you, bring unto me, and I will hear it. Deut. 16.18. Iudges and officers shalt thou make thee in all thy cities, which the Lord thy God giveth thee, throughout thy tribes: and they shall judge the people with righteous iudgement. 19. Wrest not thou the law, nor respect any person, neither take reward: for the reward blindeth the eyes of the wise, and perverteth the words of the just. 20 That which is just and right shalt thou follow, that thou mayst live, and possess the land which the lord thy God giveth thee. Deut. 17.14. When thou shalt come into the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee, and shalt possess it and dwell therein, if thou say, I will set a king over me, like as all the nations that are about me. 15. Then thou shalt make him king over thee, whom the Lord thy God shall choose: from among thy breathren shalt thou make a king over thee: thou shalt not set a stranger over thee, which is not thy brother. 16. In any wise he shall not prepare him many horses, nor bring again the people to Egypt, for to increase the number of horses, seeing the Lord hath said unto you ye shall not henceforth go no more that way. 17. Neither shall he take him many wives, lest his heart turn away: neither shall he gather him much silver and gold. 18. And when he shall sit vpon the throne of his kingdom then shall he writ him this law repeated in a book, by the Priests of the levites 19. And it shalbe with him, and he shall read therein all dayes of his life, that he may learn to fear the lord his God, and to keep all the words of this law, and these ordinances, for to do them: 20. That his heart be lifted up above his breathren, and that he turn not from the commandment, to the right hand or to the left, but that he may sung his dayes in his kingdom, he& his sons in the mids of Israell. Deut. 16.11. But if a man hate his neighbour, and lay wait for him, and rise against him, and smite any man that he die, and fly unto any of these cities 12. Then the elders of his city shall sand and set him thence, and deliver him into the hands of the avenger of the blood, that he may die. 13. Thine eye shall not spare him, but thou shalt put away the cry of innocent blood from Israell, that it may go well with thee. 2. Chron. 19.5. And he set Iudges in the land throughout all the strong cities of judah city by city. 6. And said to the Iudges: Take heed what ye do: for ye execute not the judgements of man but of the Lord, and he willbe with you in the cause and iudgement. 7. Wherfore now let the fear of the Lord be vpon you: take it and do it: for there is no iniquity with the Lord our God, neither respect of person, nor receiving of reward. Psalm. 2.10. Be wise now therefore, ye kings: be learned ye iudges of the earth. 11. serve the lord in fear and rejoice in trembling. 12. kiss the son, lest he be angry, and perish in the way when his wrath shall suddenly burn. Blessed are all that trust in him. proverb. 20.2. The fear of the king is like the roaring of a Lion: he that provoketh him unto anger, sinneth against his own soul. Esai 49.23. And kings shalbe thy noureing fathers, and queens shalbe thy nurses, they shall worship thee with their faces toward the earth, and li●ke up the dust of thy feet: and thou shalt know that I am the Lord, for they shall not be ashamed that wait for me. Matth. 22.21. give unto caesar the things that are Cesars, and unto God, the things which are gods. John. 10 34. Psal. 81.6. Is it not written in your law, I said, ye are Gods? 35. Yf ye called them Gods, unto whom the word of God was given, &c. Rom. 13.1. Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers: for there is no power but of God:& the powers that be are ordained of God 2. whosoever resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God:& they that resist, shall receive to themselves iudgement. 3. For Princes are not to be feared for good works, but for evil, wilt thou then be without fear of the power? do well: so shalt thou haue praise of the same. 4. For he is the minister of God for thy wealth, but if thou do evil, fear: for he beareth not the sword for nought: for he is the minister of God to take vengeance on him that doth evil. 5 Wherefore ye must be subject, not because of wrath onely, but also for conscience sake. 6. For, for this cause ye pay also tribute, for they are Gods ministers, applying themselves for the same thing. 7. give to all men therefore their duty: tribute, to whom ye owe tribute: custom, to whom custom: fear to whom fear: honour, unto whom ye owe honour- 1. Timoth. 2.1. I exhort therefore, that first supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giuing of thankes, be made for all men, 2. For kings for all that are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and a peaceable life, in all godliness and honesty. 3. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our saviour, 4. Who will that all men shalbe saved, and come unto the knowledge of the truth. He speaketh of all estates, and not of every several person. Tit. 3.1. Put them in remembrance that they be subject to the principalities and powers, and that they be obedient and ready to every good work. 1. Peter. 2.13. Submit yourselves unto all manner ordinances of man for the lords sake, whether it be unto the king, as unto the superior, 14. or unto gouernours, as unto them which are sent of him, for the punishment of evil doers,& for the praise of them that do well. The Magistrate, that is to say the superiority and civil government, whether it be of one man or of many, is by Gods ordinance, and hath place in the Church, as the other three orders going before, yea and that having authority above them, he beareth the sword for the defence of the good and innocent, and for the correction of the wicked and dissolute. To whom we owe honour and obedience in all things which are not against God: and we must pay unto them rents, customs, revenues, taxes, impositions, tenths, tithes, and other like tributes. OF ELDERS IN YEARES as well men as women. Titus. 2.2. That the elder men be sober, honest, discrete, sound in the faith, in love and in patience. 3. The elder women likewise, that be in such behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, but teachers of honest things. 4. That ye may instruct the younger women to be sober minded, that they love their husbands, that they love their children, 5 That they be discrete, chased, keepeping at home, good and subject unto their husbands, that the word of God be not evil spoken of. OF THE YONGERS Tit. 2.6. Exhort young men likewise that they be sober minded. 7. above all things show thyself an example of good works with incorrupt doctrine, with grauetie, integrity. OF married folk in general. Matth. 5.31. It hath been said also, whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a testimonial of divorcement. 32. But I say unto you, whosoever shall put away his wife( except it be for fornication) causeth her to commit adultery, and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced, committeth adultery. Math. 19.4. Haue ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male& female. 5. And said for this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and cleave unto his wife, and they twain shalbe one flesh? 6. Wherefore they are no more twain but one flesh, let not a man therefore put a sunder that, which God hath coupled together. 7. They said to him, why did then moses command to give a bill of divorcement, and to put her away? He said unto them, moses, because of the hardness of your heartes, suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so. 9. I say therefore unto you, that whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for whoredom, and mary an other, committeth adultery: and whosoever marrieth her which is divorced, doth commit adultery. 1. Cor. 7.3. Let the husband give unto the wife due benevolence, and likewise also the wife unto the husband. 4. The wife hath not the power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not the power of his own body, but the wife. 5. Defraud not one an other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer, and again come together that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency. 6. But I speak this by permission, not by commandment. 7. For I would that all men were even as I myself am: but every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this maner, and other after that. That which followeth in the same chapter dependeth of that which goeth before: and is a consequent which he draweth thence applying his talk to virgins, and to those which are not married, and doth well agree with them herein, that it is a thing to be wished and desired to live without marrying, if it could benotwithstanding that every one ought to consider what power is given unto him. OF married MEN Ephes. 5.25. husbands, love your wives, even as Christ loved the Church, and gave himself for it. 26. That he may sanctify it, and cleanse it by the washing of water through the word. 27. That he might make it unto himself a glorious Church, not having spot or wrinkle, or any such thing: but that it should be holy and without blame. 28. So ought men to love their wives, as their own bodies: he that loveth his wife, loveth himself. 29. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh, but nourrisheth and cherisheth it even as the Lord doth the Church. 30. For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. 31. For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. Colloss. 3.19. husbands love your wives, and be not bitter unto them. 1. Pet. 3.7. Likewise ye husbands, dwell with them as men of knowledge, giuing honour unto the woman, as unto the weaker vessel, even as they which are heires together of the grace of life, that your prayers be not interrupted. OF WIVES. Gene. 3.16. And thy desire shall be subject to thine husband, and he shall rule over thee. As if he would say, Thou must not covet any thing but that which thy husband will. 1. Cor. 14.34. Let your women keep silence in the Church, for it is not permitted unto them to speak: but they ought to be subject, as also the Lawe saith. 35. And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shane for women to speak in the Church. Eph. 5.22. behooves, submit yourselves unto your husbands, as unto the Lord. 23. For the husband is the wives head, even as Christ is the head of the Church,& the same is the saviour of the body. 24. Therfore as the Church is in subiection unto Christ, even so, let the wives be to their husbands in every thing. Colloss. 3.18. behooves, submit yourselves unto your husbands, as it is comely in the Lord. 1. Tim. 2.9. Likewise also the women, that they array themselves in comely apparel, with shamefastness and modesty, not with broided hear, or gold, or pearls, or costly apparel. 10. But( as becometh women that profess the fear of God) with good works. 11. Let the woman learn in s●ilence with all subiection. 12 I permit not a woman to teach, neither to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. 13 For Adam was first formed, then eve. 14. And Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived, and was in the transgression. 15. notwithstanding, through bearing of children she shall be saved, if they continue in faith, and love, and holinesse, with modesty. 1. Pet. 3.1. Likewise let the wives be subject to their husbands, that even they which obey not the word, may without the word be won, by the conversation of the wives. 2. While they behold your pure conversation, which is with fear. 3. Whose appareling, let it not be outward, as with broided hear, and gold put about, or in putting on of apparel. 4. But let the hide man of the heart be uncorrupt, with a meek and quiet spirit, which is before God a thing much set by. 5. For even after this manner in time past did▪ the holy women, which trusted in God, attier themselves, and were subject to their husbands. 6. And Sara obeied Abraham, and called him Sir. whose daughters ye are, whiles ye do well, not being afraid of any terror. OF MINISTERS AND Deacons wives. 1. Tim. 3.11. Likewise their wives must be honest, not evil speakers, but sober and faithful in all things. 12. Let the Deacons be husbands of one wife, and such as can rule their children well, and their own households. OF widows. 1. Co. 7.8. Therfore I say unto the unmarried, and unto the widows, it is good for them, if they abide even as I do. 12. But if they can not abstain: let them marry: for it is better to marry then to burn. 1. Tim. 5.3. Honour widows, which are widows indeed. 4. But if any widow haue children or nephews, let them learn first to show godliness toward their own house, and to recompense their kindred: for that is an honest thing, and acceptable before God. 5. And she that is a widow indeed, and lest alone, trusteth in God, and continueth in supplications and prayers night and day. 6. But shee that liveth in pleasure, is dead, while she liveth. 7. These things therefore command that they may be blameless. 8. If there be any that provideth not for his own, and namely for them of his household, he denieth the faith and is worse then an infidel. 9. Let not a widow be taken into the number, under threescore year old, that hath been the wife of one husband. 10. And well reported of, for good works: if she haue nourished her children, if shee haue lodged the strangers, if she washed the saints feet, if shee haue ministered unto them which were in adversity, if shee were continually given unto every good work. 11. But refuse the younger widows: for when they haue begun to wax wanton against Christ, they will mary. 12. having damnation because they haue broken the first faith. 13. And likewise also being idle, they learn to go about from house to house, yea, they are not only idle, but also prattlers,& busibodies, speaking things which are not comely. 14. I will therefore that the younger women marry, and bear children, and govern the house, and give none occasion to the aduersaries to speak evil. 15. For certain are already turned back after Satan. 16. If any faithful man, or faithful woman haue widows, let them minister unto them, and let not the Church be charged, that there may be sufficient for them that are widows indeed OF CHAST AND CONtinent virgines. Mat. 19.11. But he said unto them all men can not receive this thing, save they to whom it is given. 12. For there are some chast, which were so born of their mothers belly: and there be some chast, which be made chast by men: and there be some chast, which haue made themselves chast, for the kingdom of heaven. He that is able to receive this, let him receive it. 1. Cor. 7.8. Therefore I say unto the unmarried, and unto the widows, it is good for them if they abide even as I do. 9. But if they cannot abstain, let them marry: for, it is better to marry then to burn. 25. Now concerning virgins, I haue no commandment of the Lord: but I give mine advice, as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be faithful. 26. I suppose then thus to be good for the present necessity: I mean that it is good for a man so to be. 27. Art thou bound to a wife? seek not to be loosed: art thou loosed from a wife? seek not a wife. 28. But if thou takest a wife, thou sinnest not: nevertheless, such shall haue trouble in the flesh: but I spare you. 29. And this I say, brethren, because the time is short, hereafter that both they which haue wives, be as though they had none. 30. And they that weep, as though they wept not: and they which rejoice, as though they reioyced not: and they that buy, as though they possessed not. 31. And they that use this world, as though they used it not: for the fashion of the world goeth away. 32. And I would haue you without care. The unmarried careth for the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord. 33. But he that is married careth for the things of the world, how he may please his wife. OF FATHERS AND Parentes. Deut. 6 6. And these words which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart. 7. And thou shalt rehearse them continually unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou tarriest in thine house, and as thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. Deutr. 32.46. Then he said unto them. Set your hearts unto all the words which I testify against you this day, that ye may command them unto your children, that they may observe and do all the words of this Law. Pro. 13.24. He that spareth his rod, hateth his son: but he that loveth him, chasteneth him betime. Pro. 19.18. Chasten thy son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his murmuring. Prou. 23, 13. With-hold not correction from the child: if thou smite him with the rod, he shall not die. 14. Thou shalt smite him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from hell. Pro. 29.17. Correct thy son and he will give thee rest, and will give pleasure to thy soul. Ephes. 6.4. And ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring thē up in instruction and information of the Lord. Colloss. 3.11. Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged. OF CHILDREN. Exod. 20.12. Honour thy father& thy mother, that thy daies may be prolonged vpon the land, which the lord thy God giveth thee. Deut. 27.16. Cursed be he that nurseth his father and his mother, and all the people shall say, So be it. Pro. 20.20. He that nurseth his father, or his mother, his light shall be put out in obscure darkness. Prou. 30.17. The eye that mocketh his father, and despiseth the instruction of his mother, let the ravens of the valley pick it out, and the young eagles eat it. Ephes. 6.1. Children, obey your parentes in the lord: for this is right. 2. Honour thy father and thy mother,( which is the first commandment with promise.) 3. That it may be well with thee, and thou mayst live long on earth. Colloss. 3.20. Children obey your parentes in all things, for it is well pleasing unto the Lord. OF SERVAVNTES AND handmaids. 1. Cor. 7.21. Art thou called being a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be free, use it rather. 22. For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the lords free man: likewise also he which is called being free, is Christes servant. 23. Ye are bought with a price, be not the servants of men. 24. Brethren, let every man, wherein he was called, therein abide with God. Eph. 6.5. Seruants, be obedient to thē that are your maisters, according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ. 6. Not with service to the eye, as men pleasers, but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart. 7. With good will serving the Lord, and not men. 8. And know ye that whatsoever good thing any man doth, that same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free. Colloss. 3.22. servants, be obedient unto them that are your maisters, according to the flesh, in all things, not with eye service, as men pleasers, but in singleness of hart, fearing God. 23. And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men. 24. Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ: 25. But he that doth wrong, shall receive for the wrong that he hath done: and there is no respect of persons. 1. Tim. 6.1. Let as many servants as are under the yoke, count their maisters worthy of all honour, that the name of God, and his doctrine, be not evil spoken of. 2. And they which haue beleeuinge maisters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren, but rather do service, because they are faithful, and beloved, and partakers of the benefits. These things teach and exhort. 1. Pet. 2.18. servants be subject to your maisters with all fear, not onely to the good and courteous, but also to the froward. 19. For this is thank worthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongefullie. 20. For what praise is it, if when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye take it patiently? but if when ye do well, ye suffer wrong, and take it patiently, this is acceptable to God. OF MAISTERS. Deut. 25.15. Thou shalt deliver the seruant unto his master, which is escaped from his master unto thee. 16. He shall dwell with thee, even among you, in what place he shall choose, in one of thy cities, where it liketh him best: thou shalt not vex him. Deut. 32 43. Ye nations, praise his people: for he will avenge the blood of his servants, and will execute vengeance vpon his aduersaries, and will be merciful unto his land, and to his people. proverb. 29.21. He that delicatelie bringeth up his seruant from his youth, at length he will be even as his son. Ephes. 6.9. And ye maisters, do the same things unto them, putting away threatening: and know that even your master also is in heaven, neither is there respect of persons with him. Colloss. 4.1. Ye maisters, do unto your servants, that which is just and equal, knowing, that ye also haue a master in heaven. OF poor AND rich. Exod. 22.25. If thou lend money to my people, that is, to the poor with theo, thou shalt not be as an vserer unto him ye shall not oppress him with vserie. 26. If thou take thy neighbours raiment to pledge, thou shalt restore it unto him before the sun go down. 27. For that is his covering onely, and this is his garment for his skin: wherein shall he sleep? therefore when he crieeth unto me, I will hear him: for I am merciful. Leuit. 19.9. When ye reap the harvest of your hand, ye shall not reap every corner of your field, neither shalt thou gather the glaininges of thy harvest. 10. Thou shalt not gather the grapes of thy viniard clean, neither gather every grape of the viniard, but thou shalt leave them for the poor,& for the stranger, I am the Lord your God. Deut. 15.7. If one of thy breathren with thee, be poor within any of thy gates in thy land, which the Lord thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not harden thine heart, nor shut thine hand from thy poor brother. 11. Because there shal be ever some poor in the land, therefore I command thee, saying, thou shalt open thine hand unto thy brother, to thy needy, and to thy poor in thy land. proverb. 22.2. The rich and poor meet together: the lord is the maker of them all. proverb. 28.27. He that giveth unto the poor, shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall haue many curses. Ecclesiast. 6.2. A man to whom God hath given riches and treasures, and honour, and he wanteth nothing for his soul of all that it desireth: but God giveth him not power to eat thereof, but a strange man shall eat it up: this is vanity, and this is an evil sickness. Matth. 6.24. No man can serve two maisters: for either he shall hate the one, and love the other, or else he shall lean to the one and despise the other. Yea can not serve God and riches. Matth. 25.40. And the king shall answer and say unto them, verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye haue done it to one of the least of these my breathren, ye haue done it unto me. Matth. 26.11. For ye haue the poor always with you, but me shall ye not haue always. Luke. 14.13. But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, and the blind. Luk. 16.9. And I say unto you, make your friends with the riches of iniquity, that when ye shall want they may receive you into everlasting habitations. 1. Timoth. 6.17. Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not high minded, and that they trust not in uncertain riches, but in the living God( which giveth us abundantly all things to enjoy. 18. That they do good, and be rich in good works, and ready to distribute and communicate. 19. Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may obtain eternal life. james 1.9. Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted: 10. again he that is rich, in that he is made low: for as the flower of the grass, shall he vanish away. james. 2.2. For if there come into your company a man with a gold ring, and in good apparel, and there come in also a poor man, in vile raiment. 3. And ye haue a respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit you here in a good place, and say unto the poor, stand thou there, or sit thou there under my footstool. 4. Are ye not partial in yourselves, and are become Iudges of evil thoughts? 5. hearken my beloved brethren, hath no● God chosen the poor of this world, that they should be rich in faith, and heires of the kingdom which he promised to them that love him. 6. But ye haue despised the poor. Do not the rich oppress you by tyranny, and do not they draw you before the iudgment seats? 7. do not they blaspheme the worthy name after which ye be name? The communion of Saincts. Act. 2.44. And all that believed, were together in one place, and had all things common. 45. And they sold their possessions and goods, and partend them to all men, as every one had need. Act. 4.32. And the multitude of them that believed, were of one heart, and of one soul, neither any of them said, that any thing of that he possessed, was his own, but they had all things common. 54. Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses, sold them, and brought the price of the things that were sold. 35. And laid it down at the Apostles feet and it was distributed to every man as he had need. Rom. 12.13. Distributing to the necessities of the Sainctes, giuing yourselves to hospitality. 1. Corinth. 12.4. now there are diversities of gifts, but the same spirit. 5. And there are diversities of administrations, but the same lord. 6. And there are diversities of operations, but God is the same which worketh all in all 7. But the manifestation of the spirit is given to every man, to profit withall. 8. For to one is given by the spirit the word of wisdom: and to an other the word of knowledge, by the same spirit. 9. And to another is given faith by the same spirit, and to an other the gifts of healing by the same spirit. 10. And to an other the operation of great works: and to an other prophesy: and to an other the discerning of spirites: and to an other diversities of tongues: and to an other the interpretation of tongues. 11. And all these things worketh even the self same spirit, distributing to every man severally as he will. 12. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of the body, which is one, though they be many, yet are but one body: even so is Christ. 13. For by one spirit are we all baptized into one body: whether we be Iewes or Grecians, whether we be bond, or free, and haue been all made to drink into one spirit. 14. For the body also is not one member but many. 15. If the foot would say, because I am not the hand, I am not of the body, is it therefore not of the body? 16. And if the ear would say, because I am not the eye, I am not of the body, is it therefore not of the body? 17. If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were then the smelling? 18. But now hath God d●sposed the members every one of them in the body at his own pleasure. 19. For if they were all one member, where were the body? 20. But now are there many members, yet but one body. 21. And the eye can not say unto the hand, I haue no need of thee: nor the head again to the feet, I haue no need of you. 22. Yea much rather, those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary. 23. And vpon those members of the body, which we think most unhonest, put we more honesty on: and our vncomelie partes, haue more comeliness on. 24. For our comely partes need it not: but God hath tempered the body together, and hath given the more honour to that part which lacked. 25. Lest there should be any division in the body: but that the members should haue the same care one for another. 26. Therefore if one member suffer, all suffer with it: if one member be had in honour, all the members rejoice with it. 27. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members for your part. Ephes. 3.3. That is, that God by revelation hath shewed this mystery unto me( as I wrote above in few words. 4. Whereby when ye read, ye may know mine understanding in the mystery of Christ) 5. Which in other ages was not opened unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy Apostles and Prophets by the spirit. 6. That the Gentiles should be inheritoures also, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel. 7. Whereof I am made a minister by the gift of grace of God given unto me through the working of his power. 8. even unto me the least of all Sainctes is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles, the unsearchable riches of Christ. 9. And to make clear unto all men, what the fellowship of the mystery is, which from the beginning of the world hath been hide in God, who hath created all things by Iesus Christ. 10. To the intent, that now unto principalities and powers, in heavenly places, might be known, by the Church the manifold wisdom of God. 11. According to the eternal purpose, which he wrought in Christ Iesus our Lord. 12. By whom we haue boldness and entrance with confidence, by faith in him. 13. Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for your sakes, which is your glory. 14. For this cause I bow my knees unto the father of our Lord Iesus Christ. 15.( Of whom is name the whole family in heaven, and in earth.) 16. That he might grant you according to the riches of his glory, that ye may be strengthened by his spirit in the inner man. colossians. 3.12. now therefore as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercy, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long suffering: 13. Forbearinge one an other, and forgiuinge one an other, if any man haue a quarrel to an other: even as Christ forgave, even so do ye. 14. And above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfectness. This article is added for to declare what that assembly and company is which we haue name the Church, and doth signify that among the members thereof there is a coniunction, that is to lay a company, communion, commonalty, and society, and that they are as a body of a common weal, every one being partaker of the common privileges of the same, and communicating together in all things. This society hath two bonds, to wit faith and charity. By faith all the riches and treasures of Christ are made common unto us, in such sort that without any acception of persons all may be made partakers thereof. Wherefore all those that haue faith are called into an hope of vocation, into a looking for of one resurrection, and one inheritage of everlasting life, and are lead& conducted by one Spirit, received into one selfe same participation of the body& blood of the Lord, members of one Church, by one faith,& one baptism. The second band is charity, through which the one communicateth to the other, that which they haue received of God, be it in spiritual grace, or temporal goods. For although there is a difference of these things, that God distributeth them to some particularly and not to others, or to some more to some less, as he will, and according as he knoweth it to be expedient, notwithstanding all ought to be referred through charity to the common profit and utility of the whole Church, and serve for the welfare of all the members, which saint paul doth so well declare in this notable comparison which he maketh of the body of man and the members thereof, with the body of the Church, and the members of the same. The forgiveness of sins. Esai. 33.24. And none inhabitaunt shall say I am sick: the people that dwell therein shall haue their iniquity forgiven. Eze. 33.11. Say unto thē, as I live, saith the Lord God, I desire not the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his ways and live: turn you, for why will ye die, O ye house of Israell. Ose. 2.18. And in that day will I make a covenant for them, with the wild beasts, and with the foul of the heaven, and with that that creepeth vpon the earth: and I will break the bow, and the sword and the battle out of earth, and will make them to sleep safely. 19. I will marry thee unto me for ever, yea I will marry the unto me in righteousness and in iudgement, and in mercy, and in compassion. Luke. 24.46. And said unto them, thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise again from the dead the third day. 47. And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, being at jerusalem. john. 3.17. For God sent not his son into the world that he should condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved. 18. He that believeth in him shall not be condemned but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he believeth n●t in the name of the only begotten son of God. 19. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather then light, because their deeds were evil. John. 5.24. He that heareth my word, and believeth in him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation, but hath passed from death unto life. Act. 10.43. To him also give all the Prophetes witness, that through his name, all that beleeue in him, shall receive remission of sins: Act. 13.38. Be it known unto you therfore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins. 39. And from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the Law of M●ses, by him every one that believeth, is justified. acts. 2.38. Amend your lives and be baptized every one of you, in the name of Iesus Christ, for the remission of sins: and ye shall receive the gift of the holy Ghost. Rom. 3.22. The righteousness of God, is by the faith of Iesus Christ, unto all, and vpon all that beleeue. 23. For there is no ●ifference, for all haue sinned, and are deprived of the glory of God. 24. And are justified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in Christ Iesus. 25. Whom God hath set forth to be a reconciliation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness, by the forgiveness of the sins that are passed through the patience of God. Rom. 5.1. Then being justified by faith, we haue peace toward God through our Lord Iesus Christ. 2. By whom also we haue access through faith unto his grace, wherein we stand, and rejoice under the hope of the glory of God. &c. 9. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10. For if when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his son, much more being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. Rom. 8.1. Now then there is no condemnation to them that are in Christ Iesus, which walk not after the flesh, but after the spirit. 2. For the law of the spirit of life, which is in Christ Iesus, hath freed me from the Law of sin& death. 1. Cor. 6.11. And such were some of you, but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of our lord Iesus, and by the spirit of our God. 2. Corinth. 5.8. nevertheless we are bold, and love rather to remove out of the body, and to dwell with the lord. 9. Wherefore also we covet, that both dwelling at home, and removing from home, we may be acceptable unto him. Ephes. 1.7. By whom we haue redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins, according to his rich grace. 10. That in the dispensation of the fullness of times, he might gather together in one all things, both which are in heaven, and which are in earth, even in Christ. 11. In whom also we are chosen, when we were predestinate according to the purpose of him, which worketh all things after the counsel of his own will. Collo. 1.14. In whom we haue redemption through his blood, that is, the forgiveness of sins. Hebr. 9.14. How much more shall the blood of Christ, which through the eternal spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works, to serve the living God. 15. And for this cause is he the mediator of the n●w testament, that through death which was for the redemption of the transgressions which were in the former testament, that they which were called, might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. Hebr. 10.10. By the which will we are sanctified, even by the offering of the body of Iesus christ once made. 14. For with one offering hath he consecrated for ever them, that are sanctified. &c. 18 now where remission of these things is, there is no more offering for sin. 1. John. 2.1. And if any man sin, we haue an advocate with the father, Iesus Christ, the just. 2. And he is the reconciliation for our sins: and not for ours onely, but also for the sins of the whole world. The remission of sins is joined unto the Church for two reasons, the one is, because it is not, nor can be obtained, but only of those which are members of the Church, and that out of it there is no salvation, even as our of the Arcke of Noe, there is sou●d nothing but death and destruction. For sit● that remission of sins is given unto us through Iesus Christ, we must be members of his body, that we may obtain it. But we can not be his members without we be of his Church, which is his body, whereof he is the head. To the end therfore that through remission our sins may be blotted out, we must be of the Church. The other, because the Church can not consist, but by remission of sins, and there is none also which is received in the same for a true member, but by remission of sins. Wherefore al●o we are washed with water from the beginning, to show and declare that we haue entred there, by the spiritual washing away of our uncleanness, for that cause also was the word and administration of reconciliation put in the same, that our faults may not be imputed unto vs. Take away therefore the remission of sins,& we shall not only be separated from the Church, but there shall not be any Church at all. Take away the Church also, and this grace of free pardon which God hath promised, shall be vain and unprofitable. And this is that which we beleeue in this article. The resurrection of the body. job. 19.25. For I am sure that my redeemer liveth,& he shall stand the last on the earth. 26. And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet shall I see God in my flesh. Isaias. 26.19. Thy dead men shall live: even with my body shall they rise. Awake and sing, ye that dwell in dust, for thy dew is as the dew of herbs, and the earth shall cast out the dead. Isaias. 66.14. And when ye see this, your heart shall rejoice, and your bones shall flourish like an herb: and the hand of the Lord shall be known among his servants, and his indignation against his enemies. Ezech. 37.5. Thus saith the lord God unto these bones, Behold, I will cause breath to enter into you, and ye shall live. 6. And I will lay sinews vpon you, and make flesh grow vpon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, that ye may live, and ye shall know that I am the Lord. 10. And the breath came into them, and they lived, and stood up vpon their feet, an exceeding great army. 13. And ye shall know that I am the Lord, when I haue opened your graues, O my people, and brought you up out of your sepulchers. 14. And shall put my spirit into you, and ye shall live. Dan. 12.2. And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth, shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shane and perpetual contempt. John. 5.28. marvell not at this: for the hour shall come, in the which, all that are in the graues, shall hear his voice. 29. And they shall come forth, that haue done good, unto the resurrection of life: but they that haue done evil, unto the resurrection of condemnation. John. 6.44. No man can come to me, except the father, which hath sent me, draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. John. 11.24. Martha said unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. acts. 24.14. But this I confess unto thee, that after the way( which ye call heresy) so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all the things which a●e written in the Lawe and the Prophetes. 15. And haue hope towards God, that the resurrection of the dead, which they themselves look for also, shall be both of just and unjust. Rom. 8.21. Because the creature also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the sons of God. 22. For we know that every creature groaneth with us also, and travaileth in pain together unto this present. 23. And not onely the creatures, but we also which haue the first fruits of the spirit, even we do sigh in ourselves, waitinge for the adoption, even the redemption of our body. 24. For we are saved by hope. &c. 1. Cor. 15.20. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and was made the first fruits of them that slept. 21. For since by man came death, by man also came the resurrection of the dead. 22. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. 23. But every man in his own order: the first fruits is Christs, afterward, they that are of Christ, at his coming shall rise again. &c. 51. Behold I show you a secret thing, we shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed. 52. In a moment in the twinkling of an eye at the last trumpet: for the trumpet shall blow, and the dead shall be raised up incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. Phillip. 3.20. But our conversation is in heaven, from whence also we look for the saviour, even the lord Iesus Christ. 21. Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according unto the working whereby he is able to subdue all things unto himself. Colloss. 3.4. When Christ which is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory. 1. Thess. 4.13. I would not brethren, haue you ignorant concerning them which are a sleep, that ye sorrow not even as other which haue no hope. 14. For if we beleeue that Iesus is dead, and is risen, even so them which sleep in Iesus, will God bring with him. 15. For this say we unto you, by the word of the Lord, that we which live, and are remaininge in the coming of the lord, shall not prevent them which sleep. 16. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a show●e, and with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first. 17. Then shall we which live and remain, be caught up with them also in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air, and so shall we ever be with the Lord. This resurrection which we confess, is of the flesh not of the spirit, that is to say, that it shall not be the soul or spirit of man, which shall rise again,( for according to that part man is immortal,) but the body: not an other, but the self same, which was put of, butted, corrupted, rotted, and brought to ashes: that same body, I say, shall be raised up again and fully restored,& again joined with his soul, yea, and that although it were burnt,& the ashes cast into the wind, or eaten and devoured of wild brutish beasts, yet by the puissant power of almighty God, it shall return into his former being. moreover this resurrection shall not be a particular: that is to say, some, or the good only, shall rise again: but generally all flesh, to wit, every man, be he good, be he evil, be he faithful, be he faithless, of what age, of what time, of what nation, of what religion soever he was of, all must rise. notwithstanding it shall not be in semblable sort and like condition: for they which shall haue done well, shall go into the resurrection of life, that is to say, to salvation, ioy, and eternal felicity, they which shall haue done evil, shall go in the resurrection of condemnation, that is to say, to death, and eternal perdition. OF THE DEAD, AND those which are passed out of the world before the resurrection. Leuit. 21.1. And the Lord said unto Moses, speak unto the Priestes the sons of Aaron, and say unto them, let none be defiled by the dead among this people. 4. He shall not lament for the Prince among his people, to pollute himself. 11. Neither shall he go to any dead body, nor make himself unclean by his father or by his mother. &c. Nomb. 6.6. During the time that he separateth himself unto the Lord, he shall come at no dead body. Deutr. 14.1. Ye are the children of the Lord your God, ye shall not cut yourselves, nor make you any baldness between your eyes for the dead. 2. For thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God. &c. Forasmuch as the new fashions and manners which men draw from the Pagans and heathenish men, do darken and ouercloude the truth, God forbiddeth the superstition used, which was, to cut their faces, to shave their hear by circles, or to tear their flesh, and such like fashions of mourninge. Deut. 18.10. Let none be found among you that maketh his son or his daughter to go through the fire, or that useth witchcraft, or a regard of times, or a marker of the flying of fowles, or a sorcerer. 11. Or a charmer, or that counseleth with spirits, or a soothsayer, or that asketh counsel at the dead. 12. For all that do such things are abomination unto the Lord. &c. Deut. 26.13. Then thou shalt say before the Lord thy God. &c. 14. I haue not eaten thereof in my mourning, nor suffered ought to perish through uncleanness, nor given ought thereof for the dead, but haue hearkened unto the voice of the lord my God: I haue done after all that thou hast commanded me. He signifieth in this place, all those things, which haue a fair show and colour of piety and devotion. 1. Samuel. 28.20. Saul punished for that he demanded counsel of a witch, and of the dead. &c. ezechiel. 44.25. And they shall come at no dead person to defile themselves, except at their father, or mother, or son, or daughter, brother, or sister, that hath had yet no husband: in these they may be defiled. Luke. 16.29. Abraham said unto him, they haue Moses and the Prophetes, let them hear them. 31. If they hear not Moses, and the Prophetes, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead again. Luke. 23.43. Then Iesus said unto him. verily I say unto thee, to day shalt thou be with me in Paradise. And life everlasting. THE BEGINNING OF of the life to come. joh. 3.14. And as moses lift up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the son of man be lift up. 15. That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but haue eternal life. john. 5.24. verily, verily, I say unto you, he that heareth my word, and believeth in him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation, but hath passed from death unto life. joh. 6.47. verily, verily, I say unto you. He that believeth in me, hath everlasting life. 63. The words that I speak unto you are spirit and life. 68. Then Simon Peter answered him, master to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life. joh. 11.25. Iesus said unto her, I am the resurrection and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were deade, yet shall he live: 26. And whosoever liveth and believeth in me, shall never die. joh. 17.3. And this is life eternal, that they know thee to be the onely very God, and whom thou hast sent, Iesus Christ. Act. 13.48. And as many as were ordained unto eternal life, believed. Titus. 1.2. under hope of eternal life, which God that can not lye, hath promised before the world began. 1. joh. 5.11. And this is the record, which God bore of his son, to wit that God hath given unto us eternal life: and this life is in his son. OF THE FVLL LIFE to come. Psal. 22.26. The poor shall eat, and be satisfied: they that seek after the Lord, shall praise him, your heart shall live for ever. Esa. 25.8. Apoc. 7.17.&. 21.4. He will destroy death for ever: and the Lord God will wipe away the tears from all faces,& the rebuk of his people will he take away, out of all the earth: for the Lord hath spoken it. 9. And in that day shall men say, lo, this is our God, we haue waited for him and he will save vs. This is the lord, we haue waited for him: we will rejoice and be joyful in his salvation. Esai. 51.11. Therefore the redeemed of the Lord shall return, and come with ioy unto Sion, and everlasting ioy,& gladness:& sorrow& mourning shall fly away. Esai. 65.17. For lo, I will create new heauens and a new earth, and the former shall not be remembered nor come into mind. 18. But be you glad and rejoice for ever in the things that I shall create: for behold, I will create jerusalem as a rejoicing, and her people as a ioy. 19. And I will rejoice in jerusalem, and joy in my people, and the voice of weeping shallbe no more hard in her, n●r the voice of crying. 20. There shal be no more there a child of yeares, nor an old man that hath not filled his dayes: for he that shal be an hundreth yeres old, shall die as a young man, but the sinner being an hundreth yeares old shal be accursed. Dan. 12.1. And at that time shall Mychaell stand up, the great prince, which standeth for the children of thy people, and there shalbe a time of trouble, such as never was since there began to be a nation unto that same time:& at that time thy people shalbe delivered; every one that shalbe found written in the book. Matth. 13.43. Then shall the just men shine as the sun in the kingdom of their father. Mat. 19.28. And Iesus said unto thē, verily I say unto you, that when the son of man shall sit in the throne of his majesty, ye which followed me in the regeneration, shall sit also vpon the twelve thrones, and judge the twelve tribes of Israell. 29. He shall receive an hundreth fold more, and shall inherit everlasting life. Matth. 22.30. For in the resurrection they neither marry wives, nor wives are best●wed in marriage, but are as the Angels of God in heaven. Matth. 25.34. joh. 5.29. Then shall the king say to them on his right hand, come ye blessed of my father, inherit ye the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. 35. For I was an hungered, and ye gave me meate: I thi●sted, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye lodged me. &c. 41. Then shall he say unto them on the left hand, depart from me ye cursed into everlasting fire which is prepared for the devill and his Angells. &c. 46. And these shall go into everlasting pain, and the righteous into life eternal. Rom. 2.6. God will reward every one according to his works: 7. That is, to them which by continuance in well doing seek glory, and honour, and immortality, eternal life: &c. Rom. 5.17. They shall reign in life through one that is Iesus Christ. Rom. 6.23. For the wages of sin is death: but the gift of God is eternal life, through Iesus Christ our lord. Rom. 8.17. Yf we be children, we are also heires even the heires of God, and heires annexed with Christ, if so be we suffer with him, that we may also be glorified with him. 18. For I count that the afflictions of this present time are not worthy of the glory which shalbe shewed unto vs. 29. For those which he knew before, he also predestinate to be made like to the image of his son, that he might be the first born among many breathren. 30. moreover whom he hath predestinate, them also he called: and whom he called, them also he justified, and whom he justified, them he also glorified. 1. Cor. 2.9. The things which eye hath not seen, neither ear heard, neither came into mans hart, are which God hath prepared for them that love him. 1. Cor. 13.12. For now we see through a glass darkly: but then shall we see face to face. Now I know in parte: but then shall I know even as I am known. Colos. 3.3. For ye are dead, and your life is hide with Christ in God. 4. When Christ which is our life shal appear, thē shall ye also appear with him in glory. Heb. 10.34 For both ye sorrowed with we for my bonds, and suffered with ioy the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves how that ye haue in heaven a better and an induringe substance. Heb. 13.14. For here haue we no continuing civi●, but we seek one to come. 1. Peter. 5.4. And when the chief sheepehard shall appear, ye shall receive an incorruptible crown of glory. 1. John. 2 25. And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life. 1. John. 3.2. dearly beloved, now are we the sons of God, but yet it doth not appear what we shal be: and we know that when he shall appear, we shalbe like him: for we shall see him as he is. 3. And every man that hath this hope in him, purgeth himself, even as he is pure. Apo. 2 7. Let him that hath an ear, hear, what the spirit saith to the churches, to him that overcometh, will I give to eat of the three of life, which is in the midst of the parad●se of God. 10. Be thou faithful unto the death, and I will give thee a crown of life. We know that many haue been raised up from death, as by Elyas and Eliseus, by Iesus Christ and his Apostles: notwithstanding it was in such sort, that again they dyed, and returned to the grave. But it shall not be so at the general resurrection which shalbe in the end of all: for the bodies shalbe made in corruptible and immortal, and shall rise again to life eternal and everlasting. Notwithstanding with such a difference that the elect shall haue glory, ioy, and felicity, and the reprobate, misery, and perpetual torment, and in such sort shall they be immortal, that it shall be everlastingly to suffer the pain prepared for the devill and his angells. It is that which Iesus Christ saith, that they which shall haue done well, shall go into the resurrection of life, & they which shall haue done evil, into the resurrection of condemnation. Now to show this difference, following the custom of the Scripture, the estate of the good is called eternal life: not because the wicked live not eternally: but for as much as their miserable condition shalbe more like to a captivity, a prison, and a death then a life, it ought also to be called rather a death then a life. And the estate of the good is simply called eternal life, forasmuch as they shall want nothing to live blessedly without any grief or vexation, as well according to the bodies( which shal be delivered of all infirmities, corruption, filthiness and 'vice) as the souls which shal be altogether ravished with the contemplation of their God, with contentation and perpetual and everlasting ioy. Now the true confession of this article is not onely, that there is an eternal life after death and after the resurrection, but also that it is ours,& that it is prepared for us, and that we beleeue holding ourselves assured that we shall come thither. A SVMMARIE OF faith. Rom. 10.9. For if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Iesus, and shalt beleeue in thine heart, that God raised him up from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 1. Tim. 3.16. And without controversy, great is the mystery of godliness, which is, God is manifested in the flesh, justified in the spirit, seen of Angells, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, and received up in glory. A DECLARATION VPON THE TEN COMMAVNDEMENTS by the which God commandeth us to do well, and forbiddeth us to do evil. FIRST generally of the Lawe. Exod. 31.18. Deut. 9.10. Thus when the Lord had made an end of communing with moses vpon the mount Sinai) he gave him two tables of the testimony, even tables of ston, written with the finger of God. Deut. 4.13. Exod. 34.28. Then he declared unto you his covenant, which he commanded you to do, even the ten commandments, and wrote them vpon two tables of ston. John. 1.17. For the law was given by moses, but grace and truth came by Iesus Christ. Rom. 7.12. Wherefore the lawe is holy, and the commandment is holy, and just, and good. Gal. 3.19. Act. 7.38. It was added because of the transgressions, till the seed came, unto the which the promise was made: and it was ordained by Angels in the hand of a mediator. 24. Wherefore the Law was our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ, that we might be made righteous by faith. 1. Tim. 1.8. And we know that the Law is good, if a man use it lawfully. 9. Knowing this that the Law is not given unto a righteous man, but unto the lawless and disobedient, to the ungodly and to sinners, to the vnholie and to the profane, to murtherers of fathers and mothers, to manslears. THE PREFACE. hearken O Israell, I am the Lord. &c. Exod. 3.15. And God spake further unto Moses, thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israell, the Lord God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, isaac, and jacob, hath sent me unto you: this is my name for ever, and this is my memorial unto all ages. 16. The Lord God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, Izhak, and Iaakob. Exodus. 5.1. Then afterward Moses and Aaron went and said to Pharaoh, Thus saith the Lord of Israell, let my people go, that they may celebrate a feast unto me in the wilderness. Isaias. 42.5. Thus saith God the Lord( he that created the heauens, and spread them abroad: he that stretcheth forth the earth, and the buds thereof: he that giveth breath unto the people vpon it, and spirit to them that walk therein. Isaias. 45.22. For I am God, and there is none other. 13. I haue sworn by myself: the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That every knee shall bow unto me, and every tongue shall swear by me. Isaias. 57.15. For thus saith he that is high and excellent, he that inhabiteth the eternity, whose name is the holy one, I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also which is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to give life to them that are of a contrite heart. Amos. 9.6. He buildeth his spheres in heaven, and hath laid the foundation of his globe of elements in earth, he calleth the waters of the sea, and poureth them out vpon the open earth: the Lord is his name. Malach. 1.6. If I be a master, where is my fear? &c. God that he might give authority to his Law, useth a very fit preface for the same. First he calleth himself Lord, to declare that he hath all power, and to whom is due all obedience, for as much as he it is, which hath neither beginning nor ending, and of whom, and by whom, and in whom all things haue their being. By these titles also he separateth himself, from all false and feigned Gods, which men haue invented and forged unto themselves: as if he should say, I am the true God, which haue mine atuhoritie of myself, and not at the pleasure of men, and without any right that they can therein pretend. But I am the lord, I am God by myself. It is I one he that haue authority to command and give laws. It is to me that all honour, homage, and obedience is due. It is I only, that can take vengeance of all those which shall be rebellious, and that will not obey me: and there is none other but I alone, which haue such power, for I am the Lord thy God, and all other Gods are nothing else but lies and vanities. Thy God. Genes. 17.7. moreover I will establish my covenant between me and thee, and thy seed after thee in their generations, for an everlasting covenant, to be good unto thee and thy seed after thee. 8. And I will give thee& thy seed after thee the land, wherein thou art a stranger, even all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession, and I will be their God. Deut. 4.20. But the Lord hath taken you and brought you out of the iron furnace: out of egypt to be unto him a people and inheritance, as appeareth this day. Deut. 7.6. For thou art a holy people unto the Lord thy God, the Lord thy God hath chosen thee, to be a precious people unto himself, above all people that are vpon earth. 7. The Lord did not set his love vpon you, nor choose you, because ye were mo in number thē any people: for ye were the fewest of all people. 8. But because the lord loved you,& because he would keep the oath, which he had sworn unto your fathers, the Lord hath brought you out by a mighty hand, and delivered you out of the house of bondage, from the hand of Pharaoh king of egypt. 9. That thou mayst know, that the Lord thy God he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy unto them that love him and keep his commandments, even to a thousand generations. 10. And rewardeth them to their face that hate him, to bring them to destruction: he will not defer to reward him that hateth him to his face. 11. keep thou therefore the commandments,& the ordinances, and the laws, which I command thee this day to do them. Deut. 10.12. And now Israell, what doth the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve him, the Lord thy God, with all thine heart, and with all thy soul? 13. That thou keep the commandments of the Lord, and his ordinances, which I command thee this day, for thy wealth. 14. Behold heaven, and the heaven of heauens is the lords thy God, and the earth with all that therein is. 15. Notwithstanding the Lord set his delight in thy father to love them, and did choose their seed after thē, even you above all people, as appeareth this day. Deuter. 14.1. Ye are the children of the Lord your God. &c. 2. For thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God, and the Lord hath chosen thee to be a precious people unto himself, above all the people that are vpon the earth. Deut. 26.18. And the Lord hath set thee up this day, to be a precious people unto him( as he hath promised thee) and that thou shouldst keep all his commandments. Deuter. 32.8. When the most high God divided to the nations their inheritance, when he separated the sons of Adam, he appointed the borders of the people, according to the number of the children of Israell. 9. For the Lords portion is his people: Iaakob is the lot of his inheritance. 10. He found him in the land of the wilderness, in a waste, & roaring wilderness: he lead him about, he taught him, and kept him as the apple of his ey. 11. As an Eagle stirreth up her nest, flotreth over her birds, stretcheth out her wings, taketh thē,& beareth thē on her wings. 12. So the Lord alone lead him,& there was no strange God with him. Isaias. 5.1. Now will I sing unto my beloved, a song of my beloved, to his vineyard, My beloved had a vineyard in a very fruitful hil. 2. And he hedged it, and gathered out the stones of it, and he planted it with the best plants, and he built a tower in the midst thereof, and made a vine-presse therein: then he looked that it should bring forth grapes: but it brought forth wild grapes. 3. Now therefore, O inhabitants of jerusalem, and men of judah, judge, I pray you, between me and my vineyard. 4. What could I haue done any more to my vine-yard that I haue not done unto it? Why haue I looked that it should bring forth grapes, and it bringeth forth wild grapes? 7. surely the vine-yard of the Lord of hosts is the house of Israell, and the men of judah are his pleasant plants, and he looked for iudgement: but behold oppression: for righteousness, but behold a crying. Ierem. 2.21. Yet I had planted thee a noble vine, whose plants were all natural: how then art thou turned unto me into the plants of a strange vine? Hosea. 11.1. When Israell was a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of egypt. 2. They called them, but they went thus from them: they sacrificed unto Baalim, and burnt incense to images. 3. I lead Ephraim also, as one should bear them in his arms: but they knew not that I healed them. 4. I lead them with cords of a man, even with bands of love, and I was to them, as he that taketh of the yoke from their jaws, and I laid the meate unto them. Malach. 1.6. If I am a father, where is my love? Eph. 2.20. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Iesus unto good works, which God hath ordained, that we should walk in them. In this God hath a regard to the covenant which he made with his people, choosinge and separatinge them from all the rest of men, as his peculiar people: and his own inheritance, and promised that he would be their God,& they should be his people. The which covenant tended to the end they should render to him love, service, and obedience, as imported these words, I will be thy God, and thou shalt be my people. By this therefore they were admonished and put in mind of their duty, to the which they had bound themselves according to the tenor of the covenant made, that is, to obey him. Now if this reason ought to be of force and weight among them, it ought to haue no less among vs. For besides that God hath chosen and created us, to walk in righteousness and holiness, we haue bound ourselves more sure, when in baptism we gave ourselves to his service, and renounced ourselves. Which haue brought thee out of the land of egypt, out of the house of bondage. levi. 26.13. I am the Lord your God, which haue brought you out of the land of egypt, that ye should not be their bondmen, and I haue broken the bonds of your yoke, and made you go upright. 1. Cor. 5.7. Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened: for Christ our Passeouer is sacrificed for vs. Colloss. 1.12. Giuing thankes unto the father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the Sainctes in light. 13. Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear son. 14. In whom we haue redemption through his blood, that is, the forgiveness of sins. Hebr. 2.14. Forasmuch then as the children were partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part with them, that he might destroy through death, him that had the power of death, that is the devill. 15. And that he might deliver all them, which for fear of death, were all their life time subject to bondage. He admonisheth and putteth the people in mind of all the benefits which God had done unto them,( comprising under one all the rest) to the end that through the remembrance of such a liberality, they might be moved to yield him obedience. But this is not only said for the children of Israell: but it appertaineth much more unto us, which are redeemed by Iesus Christ, not only from corporal bondage, but also from the spiritual, which is from Satan, from sin, from death. For the first deliverance, that is, the corporal is a type and figure of the second, to wit, of the spiritual. Then insomuch as the benefit, which we haue received through our Lord Iesus Christ, is greater thē that, which the Iewes received by Moses, so much the more also, are we bound for to aclowledge and obey him. THE FIRST commandment. Thou shalt haue none other Gods but me. Deut. 4.31.( For the Lord thy God is a merciful God) &c. 35. unto thee it was shewed, that thou mightest know, that the Lord he is God, and that there is none but he alone. Deut. 6.4. hear, O Israell, the Lord our God is Lord only. Deut. 32.39. Behold now, for I, I am he, and there is no Gods with me. 1. Chron. 17.20. Lord, there is none like thee, neither is there any God besides thee, according to all that we haue heard with our ears. Psal. 18.31. For who is God, besides the Lord? and who is mighty, save our God? Psal. 49.6. They trust in their Gods, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches. 7. Yet a man can by no means redeem his brother, he can not give his ransom to God, Psal. 86.10. For thou art great, and dost wondrous things: thou art God alone. Psalm. 146.2. Put not your trust in Princes, nor in the sons of man, for there is no help in them. Isai. 44.6. Thus saith the Lord the king of Israell, and his redeemer, the Lord of hostes, I am the first, and I am the last, and without me is there no God. 8. Ye are even my witnesses, whether there be a God beside me. &c. Isaias. 45.5. I am the Lord and there is none other: there is no God besides me. 21. Am not I the Lord? there is none other God besides me, a just God and a saviour: there is none beside me. 22. look unto me, and ye shall be saved. all the ends of the earth shall be saved: for I am God, and there is none other. Isaias. 46.9. I am God, and there is none other God, and there is nothing like me. Ierem. 17.5. Thus saith the Lord, Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and withdraweth his heart from the Lord. Ioell. 2.27. I am the Lord your God, and none other. &c. Malach. 2.10. Haue we not all one father? hath not one God made us? Math. 4 10. Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him onely shalt thou serve. Act. 10.25. And it came to pass as Peter came in, that Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet,& worshipped him. 26. But Peter took him up, saying, stand up for even I myself am a man. 1. Cor. 8.4. We know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one. 5. For though there be that are called Gods, whether in heaven, or in earth, &c. 6. Yet unto us there is but one God, which is the father, of whom are all things, and we in him &c. Eph. 4.6. One God and father of all, which is above all, and through all, and in you all. 1. Timoth 1.17. Now unto the king everlasting, immortal, invisible, unto God onely wise, be honour▪ and glory for ever and ever, Amen. 1. Timoth. 2.5. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and man, which is the man Christ Iesus. Apoc. 19.10.& 22.8.9. And I fell before his feet to worship him: but he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellow servant, and one of thy brethren, which haue the testimony of Iesus. Worship God: for the testimony of Iesus, is the spirit of prophesy, Deut. 6.5. And thou shalt love the Lord thy God, with all thine heart, and with all thy soul,& with all thy might. This commandment hath two points: the one is, that we acknowledge him to be the true God, which is called the Lord, the eternal, and which delivered by his seruant Moses the children of Israell, from the bondage and captivity of egypt, and afterward the whole Church by his son Iesus Christ, from the tyranny of Satan, sin, and death. But to aclowledge him for God, it is not only to say and confess with mouth, that there is one God, and that it is he, which hath created all things, and is so often preached and declared in the scriptures( for the devill doth well confess the same, and doth tremble,) but it is to love him with all our heart, with all our mind, with all our soul, and with all our force and strength: to call vpon him, to honour him, to fear him, to serve him, and to put our whole trust and confidence in him. The other point is, that we acknowledge none other God but him alone: for every thing else what so ever it be, if it be adored and worshipped as God, it is a strange and false God: and we worshipping it are idolaters, forasmuch as in place of God, we worship an idol. First of all by this commandment are the pagans and heathenish men condemned, which haue forged a great multitude of Goddes. Albeit they did no whit at all doubt but that this same was the greatest and chiefest. The papists also are condemned, which do worship and call vpon Sainctes: for there is no difference between their religion, and this of the Pagans, but only that they haue changed the names of the idols, giuing them the names and titles of Angels, of the virgin Mary, of S. Peter, of S. james, and of others: the Pagans use the names of jupiter, Mars, Neptunus, juno, Venus, &c. Also all those which esteem of him after their own fantasy, and not as he is manifested in the word, as those which confounded the three persons in trinity, those which doubt of his might& power, or denieth his providence: al those which seek other means of aid& succours, then those which God hath given unto us, as well all sorcerers, and witches, necromancers, which by sorcery, witchcraft, and invocation of devils, would see to their own affairs. Before me. this is added for to condemn the idolatry of the hart: for although one outwardly show no sign but of piety and godliness, so it is notwithstanding that for the most part, idolatry is hid close in the heart. wherefore God will not measure his service by the face of man, which seeth but the outward appearance, but he keepeth that unto himself, forasmuch as he seeth the outward part of a man, and straightways also soundeth the inward thoughts of his heart. THE SECOND commandment. Thou shalt not make to thyself, any graven image, nor the lickenes of any thing that is in heaven above, or in the earth beneath, or in the water under the earth. Thou shalt not bow down to them, nor worship them &c. Leuit. 26. Ye shall make you, none idols nor graven Image, neither rear you up any pillar, neither shall ye set any Image of ston in your land to bow down to it, for I am the Lord your God. Deut. 4.15. Take therefore good heed unto yourselves: for ye saw no Image in the day that the lord spake unto you in Horeb, out of the mids of the fire. 16. That ye corrupt not yourselves, and make you a graven Image or representation of any figure: whether it be the lickenes of male or female. 23. Take heed unto yourselves, lest ye forget the covenant of the lord your God, which he made with you, and lest ye make you any graven Image, or lickenes of any thing, as the Lord thy God hath charged thee. 24. For thy Lord thy God is a consuming fire, and a jealous God. 25. When thou shalt beget children and childrens children, and shalt haue remained long in the land, if ye corrupt yourselves, and make any graven Image, or likeness of any thing, and work evil in the sight of the Lord thy God, to provoke him to anger. 26. I call heaven and earth to record against you this day, that ye shall shortly perish from the land. 27. And the Lord shall scatter you among the people, &c. Deut. 7.5. Ye shall overthrow their altars, and break down their pillars, and ye shall cut down their groves, and burn their graven Images with fire. 6. For thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God, the Lord thy God hath chosen thee, to be a precious people vn- himself, above all people that are vpon the earth. Deut. 11.16. But beware lest your heart deceive you, and lest you turn aside, and serve other Gods, and worship them. Deut. 27, 15. cursed be the man that shall make any carved or melted Image, which is an abomination unto the Lord, the work of the hands of the craftesman, and putteth it in a secret place: And all the people shall answer and say, So be it. Ioshua. 24.14. Now therefore fear the Lord& serve him in uprightness, and in truth, and put away the Gods which our fathers served beyond the flood and in Egypt, and serve ye the Lord. 2. King. 18.4. Ezechias king of judah, took away the high places, and broke the Images, and cut down the groves, and broke in pieces the brazen serpent that Moses had made: for unto those dayes the children of Israell did burn incense to it, and he called it Nehushtan. Psal 97.7. Confounded be all they that serve graven Images, and that glory in idols: worship him all ye Gods. Psal. 115.4. Their idols are silver and gold, even the work of mens hands. 5. They haue mouths and speak not, they haue eyes and see not. 6. They haue ears and hear not: they haue noses and smell not. 7. They haue hands and touch not: they haue feet and walk not: neither make they a sound with their throat. 8. They that make them are like unto them: so are all that trust in them. Isaias. 40.18. To whom then will ye liken God? or what similitude will ye set up unto him? 19. The workman melteth an Image, or the goldsmith beateth it out in gold, or the goldsmith maketh silver plates. 25. To whom now will ye liken me, that I should be like him, saith the holy one? Isaias. 42.8. I am the Lord, this is my name, and my glory will I not give to an other, neither my praise to graven Images. Isai. 46.5. To whom will ye make me like, or make me equal, or compare me, that I should be like him? 6. They draw gold, out of the bag and weigh silver in the balance, and hire a goldsmith to make a god of it, and they bow down and worship it. 7. They bear it vpon the shoulders: they carry him and set him in his place: so doth he stand and can not remove from his place, though one cry unto him, yet can he not answer, nor deliver him out of his tribulation. 8. Remember this& be ashamed bring it again to mind, O ye transgressors. 9. Remember the former things of old: For I am God, and there is none other God, and there is nothing like me. Ierem. 10.3. The customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a three out of the foreste( which is the work of the hands of the carpenter) with the axe. 4. And another decketh it with silver, and with gold: they fasten it with hammers, that it fall not. 5. The idols stand up as the palm three, but speak not: they are born because they can not go: fear them not, for they can not do evil, neither can they do good. Habakkuk. 2.18. What profiteth the Image? for the maker thereof hath made it an Image, and a teacher of lies, though he that made it trust therein, when he maketh dumb idols. 19. Wo unto him that saith unto the wood, awake, and to the dumb ston, rise up, it shall teach thee: behold it is laid over with gold and silver, and there in no breath in it. Act. 17.29. For as much then, as we are the generation of God, we ought not to think, that the Godhead is like unto, gold or silver, or ston graven by art, and the invention of man. Rom. 1.22. When they professed themselves to be wise, they became fools 23. For they turned the glory of the incorruptible God to the similitude of the Image of a corruptible man, and of birds, and four footed beasts, and of creeping things. 24. Wherefore also God gave them up to their hearts lusts, unto vncleannes, to defile their own bodies between themselves. 25. Which turned the truth of God unto a lye,& worshipped and served the creature, forsaking the creator, which is blessed for ever, Amen. 26. For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections. 1. Corinth. 8 4. Concerning therefore meate sacrificed unto idols, we know that an idol, is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but: one. 1. Corinth. 10.7. Neither be ye Idolaters as were some of them, as it is written. The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play. 14. Wherefore my beloved fly from idolatry. 2. Cor. 6.16. And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols: for ye are the temple of the living God: as God hath said, &c. 1. John. 5.21. Babes keep yourselves from idols, Amen. This commandment containeth two points: the one is that God will not be represented by any Image or likeness, whither it be of gold or of silver, of ston or of wood: whether of angel or man, or of any beast: whether of the sun or of the moon, or of a star, or of other Planets. To be short he will not be represented bodily in any sort what soever, and expressly defendeth it with horrible threats and menaces. For seeing he is incomprehensible, it is great temeritie and foolehardines to seem to comprehend by our senses his greatness: seeing he is infinite, to go about to shut up his majesty, within the compass of a stock or ston▪ sith he is invisible, to subject his glory to our eyes: sith he is spiritual, to give unto his substance an earthly body: sith he is immortal, to make him semblable to a dead block, sith he is incorruptible, to present him by things that putrifie and perish. The other point is not to worship any Image in way and manner of religion, not to prostrate themselves before them, to do them any honour, service, obedience, and much less to call vpon them. Wherefore all those are here condemned, which do kneel down before them, which do speak unto them, which do turn their face toward them in praying, which do kiss them, which do them reverence, which stand bareheaded before them, which do give unto them faire and costly ornaments, and do carry unto them candles. For I the lord thy God, which am a jealous God, which do visit the sins of the fathers vpon the children, unto the third and fourth generation, of them that hate me, and new mercy unto thousands, in them that love me, and keep my commandments. Exod 33.6. So the children of Israell laid their good raiment from them, after Moses came down from his mount Horeb. 7. Then Moses took the tabernacle, and pitched it without the host, far of from the host, and called it Ohel-moed. And when any did seek unto the Lord, he went out unto the Tabernacle of the congregation, which was without the host. Numb. 14.18. The Lord is slow to anger, and of great mercy, and forgiving iniquity, and sins: but not making the wicked innocent, and visiting the wickedness of the fathers vpon the children, in the third and fourth generation. Isai. 39.7. Isaias menacing the king Ezechias, saith unto him. And they shall take of thy sons, that shall proceed out of thee, and which thou shalt beget, shall they take away and they shalbe eunuchs in the palace of the king of babel. Ierem. 32.18. Thou showest mercy unto thousands: and recompensest the iniquity of the fathers, into the bosom of their children after them: O God the great and mighty whose name is the Lord of host. He addeth an horrible menacing and threat, to the end that one think it not a light sin to transgress this commandment. And when he termeth himself jealous, he sheweth in what estimation he hath his honour, for it is, even with God as it is with the husband toward the wife, whom he can not suffer to be beloved of any other, also God can not suffer his honour not onely to be given to an other, but also to be given unto himself otherwise then he will, and hath ordained. As touching that God doth punish the iniquity and sins of the fathers in their children, it must not be taken so, as though that God did punish in the innocent children the sins of others: for God himself repels that in ezechiel. chap. 18. But for as much as the children are already even of themselves& of their own nature accursed, God being provoked of the father and mother abandoneth and forsaketh them, leaving them in their proper nature, that in following the way of their fathers, they may feel the wrath and vengeance of God, not only for the sins of their fathers, but also for their own. THE THIRD commandment. Thou shalt not take the name of the lord thy God in vain. levi. 19.12. Also ye shall not swear by my name falsely, neither shalt thou defile the name of thy God, I am the Lord. Leuit. 22 32. Neither shall ye pollute mine holy name, but I will be hallowed among the children of Israell. I the Lord sanctify you. Iam. 5.12. But before all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, nor by earth, nor by any other oath: but let your yea, be yea, and your nay, nay, lest ye fall into condemnation. Mat. 5.33. again ye haue heard that it was said to them of old time, thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform thine oaths to the Lord. 34. But I say unto you, swear not at all, neither by heaven, for it is the throne of God. 35. Nor yet by earth: for it is his footstool: neither by jerusalem: for it is the city of the great king. 36. Neither shalt thou swear by thine head, because thou canst not make one hear white or black. 37. But let your communication be, yea, yea: nay, nay. For whatsoever is more then these, cometh of evil. Mat. 6.9. hallowed be thy name. 2. Cor. 1.18. Yea, God is faithful, that our word toward you, was not yea, and nay. 19. For the son of God Iesus Christ who was preached among you by us, that is, by me, and Siluanus, and Timotheus, was not yea, and nay: but in him it was yea. 20. For all the promises of God, in him are yea, and are in him Amen, unto the glory of God through vs. 2. Cor. 2.17. For we are not as many, which make merchandise of the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God in the sight of God speak we in Christ. 2. Cor. 4.2. But haue cast from us the cloaks of shane, and walk not in craftiness, neither handle we the word of God deceitfully: but in the declaration of the truth we approve ourselves to every mannes conscience in the sight of God. Colloss. 4.6. Let your speech be gracious always,& powdered with salt, that ye may know how to answer every man. 2. Timothy. 2.25. Instructing them with meekness, that are contrary minded, proving if God at any time will give them repentance, that they may know the truth. 2. Timoth. 3.8. And as Iannes and jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt mindes, reprobate concerning the faith. Titus. 1.11. Whose mouths must be stopped, which subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucres sake. 1. Pet. 4.11. If any man speak, let him talk as the words of God. If any man minister, let him do it, as of the ability which God ministereth, that God in all things may be glorified through Iesus Christ, to whom is praise and dominion for ever and ever Amen. OF A LAWFVLL oath. Deutero. 6.13. Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God and serve him, and shalt swear by his name. Deuter. 10.20. Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God: thou shalt serve him, and thou shalt cleave unto him, and shalt swear by his name. Psal. 15.4. He that sweareth to his own hindrance and changeth not. Psalm. 63.11. But the King shall rejoice in God,& all that swear by him, shall rejoice in him: for the mouth of them that speak lies shall be stopped. Isaias. 45.23. I haue sworn by myself: the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That every knee shall bow unto me, and every tongue shall swear by me. Rom. 1.9. For God is my witness( whom I serve in my spirit in the gospel of his son) that without ceasing I make mention of you. &c, The name of God, is God himself, with his majesty, and his virtues, as his power, force, wisdom, righteousness, iustice, favour, truth, mercy, goodness. &c. Now it is taken in vain diuers ways as in contemning it, and employing it to evil uses, in speaking of his works lightly, without reverence, and humility, or falsely and not in truth,& he which referreth not all that is spoken to the glory of God, and to the edification of the hearers. And above all in swearing temerouslie, and for the confirming of a lye and untruth. The which things are an abomination before God, as sufficiently declareth the threat and menace which is added. Wherefore not onely those which sin against this commandment, do oppose themselves against the works of God,& resist the known truth: but also those which in time of affliction do murmur against him. Those also which do call vpon him, that they may the better be favoured in their dissoluteness& wickedness. Those which do abuse it to sorceries, witchcrafts, divinations, drinks of love, to songs and sonettes of whoredom, to bannes and curses( as praying that God confounded those which they hate) to fables& such other like. Those which at every word and rashly use the name of God, and especially those which do forswear themselves. Those which persist in a wicked act, because of a temerouse oath they make. Those that swear by any other name thē by the name of God. But we must mark, that he doth not simply forbid the use of his name( for we are commanded to call vpon him, and to swear by him) but he onely defendeth the abuse which is said to take it in vain. THE fourth commandment. Remember that thou keep holy the sabbath day, six daies shalt thou labour, and do all which thou hast to do, for the seventh is the sabbath of the Lord thy God. &c. Gen. 2.3. So God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it, because that in it he had restend from all his work which God had created and made. Exod. 31.13. speak then also unto the children of Israell, and say, notwithstanding keep ye my sabbath: for it is a sign between me and you, in your generations, that you may know that I the Lord do sanctify you. 14. Ye shall therefore keep the sabbath, for it is holy unto you: he that defileth it, shall die the death: therfore whosoever worketh therein, the same person shall be even cut of from among his people. 15. Six dayes shall men work, but in the seventh day is the sabbath of the holy rest to the Lord: whosoever doth any work in the Sabbath day, shall die the death. 16. Wherfore the children of Israell shall keep the Sabbath, that they, may observe the rest throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant. 17. It is a sign between me and the children of Israell for ever: for in six daies the Lord made the heaven& the earth, and in the seventh day he ceased and restend. levity. 23.2. speak unto the children of Israll, and say unto them. The feasts of the Lord, which ye shall call the holy assemblies, even these are my feasts. 3. six dayes shall work be done, but in the seventh day shall be the Sabbath of rest, an holy conuocation: ye shall do no work therein, it is the sabbath of the Lord, in all your dwellings. Nomb 15.32. And while the children of Israell were in the wilderness, they found a man that gathered sti●kes vpon the sabbath day. 36. And all the Congregation brought him without the host, and stoned him with stones, and he died, as the lord had commanded Moses. Isaias. 1.14. My soul hateth your new moons and your appointed feast: they are a burden unto me: I am weary to bear them. The Prophet reprehendeth the carnal opinion, which the Iewes had of the Sabbath. Ierem. 17.21. Thus saith the Lord, take heed to your souls, and bear no burden in the Sabbath day, nor bring it in by the gates of jerusalem. 22. Neither carry forth burdens out of your houses in the Sabbath day: neither do ye any work, but sanctify the Sabbath, as I commanded your fathers. Ezec. 20.12. moreover I gave them also my Sabbath, to be a sign between me and them, that they might know that I am the Lord, that sanctify them. Ezec. 22.8. Thou hast despised mine holy things, and hast polluted my Sabbath. Ezech. 23.38. moreover thus haue they done unto me: they haue defiled my sanctuary in the same day, and haue profaned my Sabbath. OF THE DELIVEraunce from the Sabbath carnal and figurative. Mat. 12.1. At that time Iesus went on a Sabbath day through the corn,& his disciples were an hungered, and began to pluck the ears of corn and to eat. 2. And when the pharisees saw it, they said unto him. Behold, thy disciples do that, which is not lawful to do vpon the Sabbath. 3. But he said unto them, haue ye not red what david did when he was an hungered, and they that were with him? 4. How he entred into the house of God, and eat the show bread, which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with him, but onely for the priests? 5. Or haue ye not red in the Law, how that on the Sabbath day, the Priestes in the temple break the Sabbath,& are blameless? 6. But I say unto you, that here is one greater then the temple. 7. Wherefore if ye knew what this is, I will haue mercy,& not sacrifice, ye would not haue condemned the innocents. 8. For the son of man is Lord even of the Sabbath. mark. 2.27. And he said to them, The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath. 18. Wherfore the son of man is lord even of the Sabbath. G●lat. 4.10. Ye observe dayes, and months, and times, and yeares. Colloss. 2.16. Let no man therefore condemn you in meate and drink, or in respect of an holy day, or of the new moon, or of the Sabbath daies. 17. Which are but a shadow of things to come: but the body is in Christ. THE spiritual AND perpetual Sabbath. Isaias. 56.2. Blessed is the man that doth this, and the son of man, which layeth hold on it: he that keepeth the Sabbath and polluteth it not, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil. Isaias. 58.13. If thou turn away thy foot from the Sabbath, from doing thy will on my holy day,& call the Sabbath a delight, to consecrate it, as glorious to the Lord, and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor seeking thine own will, nor speaking a vain word. Isaias. 66.23. And from month to month, and from Sabbath to Sabbath, shall all flesh come to worship before me saith the Lord. Hebr. 4.3. For we which haue believed, do enter into rest, as he said to the other, As I haue sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest, although their works were finished from the foundation of the world. 11. Let us study therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same ensample of disobedience. The Sabbath had three ends, for the which it was fist ordained. The one was to be a figure and type of our spiritual rest, which consisteth in the continual mortifiyng of our flesh& corrupt nature,& in the regeneration of newenesse of life For it shewed unto us, that we ought to cease from our works, that is to say, to renounce& forsake ourselves, that the spirit of God might work in us, governing us, and in bringing forth in us new fruit of righteousness and holinesse. Wherefore the Sabbath, in as much as it was ordained of God to this end, did put the people in mind of their poverty and misery, to wit, that all that was in them was wicked and nought, wherefore we should cease from all our wicked affections and concucupiscences, and seek in God all holiness. The other end was, that the people might haue a day, in the which they might come together to hear the Law, to do those sacrifices which were ordained, to keep the other ceremonies, to partake in public prayers, and for to exercise charity. The third end was to ease the servants, and labourers, and above all especially those which are under other mens subiection. But albeit the Sabbath be abolished concerning the ceremony, notwithstanding the substance remaineth, which is to haue a certain day, to assemble themselves to hear sermons, to make public prayers, and to celebrate the sacred Sacramentes of the lord. For although we are not bound any more to such an outward observation as were the Iewes, notwithstanding the spiritual rest ought of us diligently to be observed: that is to say, that we ought to renounce all the wicked desires of our flesh, that we may be lead and conducted by the spirit of God. &c. OF LABOVR. Gene. 3.19. In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return to the earth: for out of it wast thou taken, because thou art dust, and to dust shalt thou return. job. 5.7. But man is born to travell, as the sparks fly upward. Psal. 128.2. When thou eatest the labours of thine hands, thou shalt be blessed, and it shall be well with thee. proverb. 6.6. Go to the pismeere, O sluggard: behold her ways, and be wise. proverb. 12.11. He that tilleth his land, shall be satisfied with bread, but he that followeth the idle, is destitute of understanding. proverb. 23.4, travell not to much to be rich: but cease from thy wisdom. Act. 20.34. Yea, ye know that these hands haue ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. 1. Cor. 4.12. And labour, working with our own hands. &c. Eph. 4.28. Let him that stolen, steal no more: but let him rather labour, and work with his hands the thing which is good, that he may haue to give unto him that needeth. 1. Thess. 4.11. And that ye study to be quiet, and to meddle with your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you. 12. That ye may behave yourselves honestly, toward them that are without, and that nothing be lacking unto you. 2. Thess. 3.6. We command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Iesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh inordinatelie, and not after the instruction, which ye received of vs. 7. For ye yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves inordinatelie among you. 8. Neither took we bread of any man for nought: but we wrought with labour and travell night& day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you. 9. Not but that we had authority, but that we might make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow vs. 10. For even when we were with you, this we warned you of, that if there were any, which would not work, that he should not eat, Although that God giveth not this commandment properly to cause us to travail six daies in the week( even as he defendeth not the labour on the seventh day as unlawful and wicked, but rather to keep that day for himself) notwithstanding it is convenient that we keep the ordinance, which he from the beginning gave to Adam, that is, that he should eat his bread in travell, and in the sweat of his brows, not all alike after one sort, but every one according to his estate. Wherefore the idle, unprofitable, naught-doers, vagaboundes, and other flow-bellies, which in other places are expressly condemned, are here covertly noted. THE FIFT COMMAVNdement. Honour thy father and thy mother. &c. look the places above in the creed, after the article, The holy catholic Church. Father and Mother, are taken here in this place in a more ample and large fignification then in the vulgar tongue. For generally it is taken for all superiority and power which God hath constituted and set over us: forasmuch as according to their office and estate they ought to be unto us fathers, that is to say, they ought to haue a care of those which are committed to their charge, as of their own children. Our fathers then are those which haue first begotten vs. Secondarily the ministers and pastours of the Church, which haue charge to minister unto us the word of God, and holy Sacraments. The teachers& masters of schools Thirdly all magistrates, as kings, Princes, great lords, and all those to whom it appertaineth to minister unto us iustice, to maintain the good in peace and tranquillitie, and to repress the audacity of the wicked. Fourthlie, all tutors and overseers, which haue the charge of pupils, to guide& govern them, as their own childrden. Fiftly, the Maisters are as fathers to their servants, forasmuch as besides the maintenance and wages they owe them, they ought to instruct thē in the fear of God. Lastelie, the ancient and aged, forasmuch as they ought to be unto us as guides and leaders not onely by their ensample of good manners, but also by their good counsel& advice. Honour, also doth not signify onely an exterior and outward reverence: but also obedience and love. Wherefore to honour father& mother, is not only to speak unto them with cap in hand, and making a leg: but to fear them, to esteem of them, to reverence them, to bear with them, not to make them sad and sorrow, not to speak evil of them, not to slander them, not to mock them or scoff them, but reverently to speak unto them, not to cu●se them or ban them, but to wish them all prosperity and health. moreover to obey thē in all things, which are not contrary to God and his commandments. Thirdelie, to cherish and nourish them if they haue need, and to help and succour them in all their necessities. This is that which they owe to father and mother. That thy dayes may be long vpon the earth which the lord thy God hath given thee. Eph. 6.2. Honour thy father& mother( which is the fi●st commandment with promise) 3. That it may be well with thee, and that thou mayst live long on earth. S. paul giveth us the plain understanding of this place, saying there are promised unto us two things, prosperity, and long life. And albeit that it oftentimes falleth out otherwise, to wit, that those which are obedient to father and mother, die even in the floure of their age: and contrariwise, that those which are rebellious and stoubborne, live long and that in ioy and prosperity: notwithstanding the promise is never the less true. For first of all God sheweth not that which shall befall each one, but that which ordinariely cometh to pass. moreover, God for a good cause and for the profit of his children, doth change this blessing into a far better, to wit this temporal life into everlasting and eternal life. By this means also he would prove the faith and patience of fathers and mothers. contrariwise the vengeance of God on the rebellious is deferred, either to give them a time of repentance, or to change it into a far worse, to wit, at the last to make them to perish after some shameful and ignominious fashion: sometimes for the just punishment of the fathers and mothers, or of all the whole race: either to afflict and trouble the whole common weal, or for some other causes unknown and hide unto vs. THE sixth commandment. Thou shalt not kill Genes. 9.6. Who so sheddeth mans blo●d, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God hath he made man. Exod. 21.12. He that smiteth man and he die, shall die the death. Leuit. 19.17. Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart, but thou shalt plainly rebuk thy neighbour, and suffer him not to sin. 18. Thou shalt not avenge, nor be mindful of wrong, against the children of thy people, but shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, I am the Lord. Leuit. 24.17. He also that killeth any man, he shall be put to death. Deut. 32.35. Hebr. 10.30. Vengeance and recompense are mine saith the Lord. proverb. 6.16. These six things doth the lord hate, yea his soul abhorreth seven. 17. The haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and the hands that sheede innocent blood. 18. An heart that imagineth wicked enterprises, feet that be swift in running to mischief. 19. A false witness that speaketh lies, and him that raiseth up contentions among breathren. proverb. 10.12. Hatred stirreth up contentions: but love covereth all trespasses. proverb. 17.11. A seditious person seeketh onely evil, and a cruel messenger shalbe sent against him. 13. He that rewardeth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house. proverb. 20.22. say not thou, I will recompense evil, but wait vpon the lord, and he shall save thee. Rom. 12.19. dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but give place unto wrath: for it is written, vengeance is mine: I will repay saith the lord. 20. Therefore, if thine enemy hunger, feed him: if he thirst give him drink. for in so doing, thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. 21. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil, with goodness. Ephes. 4.26. Be angry, but sin not: let not the sun go down vpon your wrath. 31. Let all bitterness, and anger, and wrath, crying and evil speaking be put away from you, with all maliciousness 32. Be ye courteous one to an other, and tender hearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ sake forgave you. Col. 3.12. Now therefore as the elect of God, holy& beloved, put one tender mercy, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long suffering: 13. Forbeareing one another, if any man haue a quarrel to another, even as Christ forgave, even so do ye. 14. And above all these things put one love, which is the bonde of perfectness. 15. And let the peace of God rule in your heartes, to the which ye are called in one body, and be amiable. 1. Thes. 5.15. See that none recompense evil for evil unto any man: but ever follow that which is good, both toward yourselves, and toward all men. 1. John. 3.15. Whosouer hateth his brother, is a manslayer, and ye know that no manslayer hath eternal life abiding in him. THE EXPOSITION OF this commandment Matth. 5.21. Ye haue heard that it was said unto them of the old time, Thou shalt not kill: for whosoever killeth shalbe culpable of iudgement. 22. But I say unto you, whosoever is angry with his brother unadvisedly, shal be culpable of iudgement. And whosoever saith unto his brother Raca, shalbe worthy to be punished by the counsel. And whosoever shall say, fool, shalbe worthy to be punished with hell fire. 23. Yf then thou bring thy gift to the alter, and there remembrest that thy brother hath ought against thee. 24. leave there thine offering before the altar, and go thy way: first be reconciled to thy brother and then come and offer thy gift. 25. Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him, least thine adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the sergeant, and thou be cast into prison. 26. verily I say unto thee, thou shalt not come out thence, till thou hast paid the utmost farthing. 39. But I say unto you, resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. 40. And if any man will sue thee at the Law, and take away thy coat, let him haue thy cloak also. 41. And whosoever will compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain, &c. 43. love your enemies, bless them that curse you: do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which hurt you, and persecute you. 45. That ye may be the children of your father that is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to arise on the evil, and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just, and unjust. By the exposition which the Lord giveth, we see that outward murder is not only forbidden, but also all hurt and damage, that we may bring to our neighbour, as well to his body and life, as lands and livings:& that whether it be by our own selves, or by others, whether it be openly, or secretly. moreover, all wrong, injury,& cursing. Thirdly all contempt, despite& disdain which is shewed by word, or any exterior sign and token. Fourthly, we must pass farther, even to the very heart: for the very fountain and roote of murder, that is to say anger, choler, rancour, hatred, malice and all affection contrary to brotherly love and charity. again thus it is, that it is not sufficient, not to kill, not to strike, not to wrong, not to hate any: but we must also love and do good even to our enemies, which shall hate and harm us, which shall spoil and persecute vs. And thus far doth this commandment reach and extend itself. THE SEVENTH commandment. Thou shalt not commit adultery. Leuit. 19.29. Thou shalt not make thy daughter common, to cause her to be a whore, lest the land also fall to whoredom, and the land be full of wickedness. God commandeth generally all fathers and mothers, to keep their daughters in chastity and purity. levit, 20.10. And the man that committeth adultery with an other mans wife, because he hath committed adultery with his neighbours wife, the adulterer and the adulteress shall die the death. Deut. 22.25. But if a man find a betrothed maid in the field, and force her, and lye with her, then the man that lay with her, shall die alone. Deut. 23.17. There shall be no whore of the daughters of Israell, neither shall there be a whore-keeper of the sons of Israell. job. 31.1. I made a covenant with mine eyes: why then should I think on a maid? proverb. 2.16. And it shall deliver thee from the strange woman, even from the stranger, which flattereth with her words. 17. Which forsaketh the guide of her youth, and forgetteth the covenant of her God. proverb. 6.32. But he that committeth adultery with a woman, is destitute of understanding: he that doth it, destroyeth his own soul. 33. He shall find a wound and dishonour,& his reproach shall never be put away. Malach. 2.14. The Lord hath been witness between thee and thy wife of thy youth, against whom thou hast transgressed: yet is shee thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant. 15. And did not he make one? yet had he abundance of spirit: and wherefore one? because he sought a godly seed: therefore keep yourselves in your spirit, and let none trespass against the wife of his youth. 16. If thou hatest her, put her away, saith the Lord God of Israell, yet he covereth the injury under his garment, saith the Lord of hostes: therefore keep yourselves in your spirit, and transgress not. Math. 5.31. and 19.9. I say therefore unto you, that whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for whoredom, and marry another, committeth adultery: and whosoever marrieth her which is divorced, doth commit adultery. Mat. 19.8. Rom. 13.9. Thou shalt not commit adultery. acts. 15.29. That ye abstain from things offered to idols, and blood, and that, that is strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Rom. 13.13. So that wee walk honestly, as in the day: not in gluttony, and drunkenness, neither in chambering& wantonness, nor in strife and envying. 1. Cor. 5.11. If any that is called a brother, be a fornicator, or covetous, or an Idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extorcioner, with such one eat not. 1. Corinth. 6.9. Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor Idolaters, nor adulterers, nor wantons, nor buggers, 10. Nor theeues, nor covetous, nor d●unkardes, nor railers, nor extortioners shall inherit the kingdom of God. 16. Do ye not know, that he which coupleth himself with an harlot, is one body? for two saith he, shall be one flesh. 17. But he that is joined unto the Lord, is one spirit. 18. fly fornication: every sin that a man doth is without the body: but he that committeth fornication, sinneth against his own body. 19. Know ye not, that your body is the temple of the holy Ghost, which is in you, whom ye haue of God? and ye are not your own. 20. For ye are bought for a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit: for ye are Gods. 1. Cor. 10.8. Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed fornication, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand. Ephes. 5.3. But fornication, and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not be once name among you, as it becometh Sainctes. 4. Neither filthiness, neither foolish talking, neither jesting, which are things not cornelie, but rather giving of thankes. 5. For this ye know, that no whoremonger, neither unclean person, nor covetous person, which is an Idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ, and of God. Colloss. 3.5. mortify therefore your members which are on the earth, fornication, uncleanness, the inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry. 1. Thess. 4.3. For it is the will of God even your sanctification, and that ye should abstain from fornication. 4. That every one of you should know, how to possess his vessel in holinesse and honour. 5. And not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God. 7. For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holinesse. OF marriage. Genes. 2.24. Ephes. 5.31. For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. Albeit the piety of the child toward the father ought above all to be kept and reputed inviolable, notwithstanding Moses sheweth, that marriage doth pass it, so that it is less lawful to leave his wife, then either father or mother, 1. Cor. 7.2. nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man haue his wife,& let every woman haue her own husband. &c. look the rest above fol. 57.& 58. Hebr. 13.4. marriage is honourable among all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. THE EXPOSITION OF this commandment. Math. 5.27. Ye haue heard that it was said unto them of old time. Thou shalt not commit adultery. But I say unto you, that whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her, hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. 29. Wherefore if thy right eye cause thee to offend, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for better it is for thee, that one of thy members perish, then that thy whole body should be cast into hell. 30. Also if thy right hand make thee to offend, cut it of and cast it from thee: for better it is for thee, that one of thy members perish, then that thy whole body should be cast into hell. 31. It hath been said also, whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a testimonial of divorcement. 32. But I say unto you, whosoever shall put away his wife( except it be for fornication) causeth her to commit adultery:& whosoever shall marry her that is divorced, committeth adultery. under one kind, the most detestable, to wit, adultery, he forbiddeth all kind of whoredom, as we may well understand by the other places alleged. And by the contrary, he commandeth all chastity, and honesty, and above all the loyalty& faithfulness of marriage. For even as God is pure,& clean, and can haue no coniunction with any thing polluted or profaned, so he will also that we,( that to him we may be joined,) be not defiled with any filthiness: but that our body and mind, that it may be his temple, be kept chased and holy. Now, that also which was said of murder, ought also to be understood of whoredom: to wit, that it doth not consist in the outward action onely: but also in the desires of the heart. Wherefore according to the commandment, it is not enough not to committe the deed actually: but we must also pluck up by the roots, all evil cogitations and thoughts, and keep our heart, our eyes, our hands, and all other partes of our body, that they be not contaminated with any vncleannes or defiled with any filthiness. THE EIGHT commandment. Thou shalt not steal. Leuit. 19.11. Ye shall not steal, neither deny that which ye owe, neither lye one to another. These words deny and lye, do signify not onely to deceive or beguile, but also to make frustrate the hope and expectation of any one. 13. Thou shalt not do thy neighbour wrong, neither rob him. The work-mans hire shall not abide with thee until the morning. 35. Ye shall not do vniustlie in iudgement, in line, in weight, or in measure. 36. You shall haue just balances, true receipt, a true Ephah, and a true Hin. Deuteron. 19.14 Thou shalt not remove thy neighbours mark, which they of old time haue set in thine inheritance, that thou shalt inherit in the land, which the Lord thy God giveth thee to possess it, Here is condemned another kind of theft, when one would enlarge his livings to the detriment and damage of an other man. Deut. 24.14. Thou shalt not oppress an hired servant that is needy and poor, neither of thy brethren, nor of the stranger that is in thy land within thy gates. 15. Thou shalt give him his hire for his day, neither shall the sun go down upon it: for he is poor, and therewith sustaineth his life: lest he cry against thee unto the Lord, and it be sin unto thee. Deuter. 15, 13. Thou shalt not haue in thy bag two maner of receipt, a great and a small. 14. Neither shalt thou haue in thine house, diverse measures, a great and a small. 15. But thou shalt haue a right& just weight, a perfect and just measure shalt thou haue, that thy dayes may be lengthened in the land, which the Lord thy God giveth thee. 16. For all that do such things, and all those that do vnrighteously, are abomination unto the Lord thy God. It is to withstand al subtle sleights, and wicked ways to gain goods, job. 24.2. Some remove the land marks, and rob the flocks, and feed thereof. 4. They make the poor to turn out of the way, so that the poor of the earth hid themselves together. 5. Behold, others as wild Asses in wilderness, go forth to their business, and rise early for a pray: the wilderness giveth him and his children food. 6. They reap his provision in the field, but they gather the late vintage of the wicked. 7. They cause the naked to lodge without garment, and without covering in the cold. 8. They are wet with the showers of the mountains, and they embrace the rocks for want of a ●ouering. 9. They pluck the fatherless from the breast, and take the pledge of the poor. 10. They cause him to go naked without clothing, and take the gleining from the hungry. provver. 11.1. False balances are an abomination unto the Lord: but a perfect weight pleaseth him. proverb. 20.10. diverse receipt, and diverse measures, both these are even abomination unto the Lord. provver. 28.24. He that robbeth his father and mother, and saith, it is no transgression, is the companion of a man that destroyeth. proverb. 29.24. He that is partner with a thief, hateth his own soul: he heareth cursing, and declareth it not. Isaias. 1.23. Thy Princes are rebellious and companions of theeues: every one loveth gifts, and followeth after rewards: they judge not the fatherless, neither doth the widows cause come before them. 24. Therefore saith the Lord God of hostes, the mighty one of Israell, Ah, I will ease me of mine aduersaries, and aduenge me of mine enemies. Isaias. 10.1. Wo unto them that decree wicked decrees, and writ grievous things. 2. To keep back the poor from iudgement, and to take away the iudgement of the poor of my people, that widows may be their pray,& that they may spoil the fatherless. 3. What will ye do now in the day of visitation, and of destruction, which shall come from far? to whom will ye fly for help? and where will ye leave your glory? 4. Without me every one shall fall among them that are bound, and they shall fall down among the slain. Amos. 8.4. hear this, O ye, that swallow up the poor, that ye may make the needy of the land to fail. 5. Saying, when will the new month begin, that we may sell corn? and the Sabbath, that we may set forth wheat, and make the Ephah small, and the shekel great, and falsify the receipt by deceit? 6. That we may buy the poor for silver, and the needy for shoes, yea, and sell the refuse of the wheat. 7. The Lord hath sworn by the excellency of Iaakob, Surely I will never forget any of their works. Mich. 6.10. Are yet the treasures of wickedness, in the house of the wicked, and the scant measure, that is abominable? 11. Shall I justify the wicked balances, and the bag of deceitful receipt? 12. For the rich men thereof are full of cruelty, and the inhabitants therof haue spoken lies,& their tongue is deceitful in their mouth. 13. Therefore also will I make thee sick in smiting thee, and in making thee desolate, because of thy sins. 14. Thou shalt eat and not be satisfied, and thy casting down, shall be in the midst of thee, and thou shalt take hold, but shalt not deliver: and that which thou deliverest, will I give up to the sword. 15. Thou shalt sow, but not reap: thou shalt tread the oliues, but thou shalt not anoint thee with oil, and make sweet wine, but shalt not drink wine. Luke. 3.14 The souldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely, and be content with your wages. Eph. 4.28. Let him that stolen, steal no more: but let him rather labour, and work with his hands the thing which is good, that he may haue to give unto him that needeth. 1. Thess. 4.6. That no man oppress or defraud his brother in any matter: for the Lord is a revenger of all such things, as we also haue told you before times and testified. OF alms-giving and liberality to the poor and needy. Leuit. 19.9. When ye reap the harvest of your land, ye shall not reap every corner of your field, neither shalt thou gather the glayninges of thy harvest. Deut. 15.7. If one of thy breathren with thee be poor within any of thy gates in thy land, which the Lord thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not harden thine heart, nor shut thine hand from thy poor brother. 8. But thou shalt open thine hand unto him, and shalt lend him sufficient for his need which he hath. Psal. 112.5. A good man is merciful and lendeth, and will measure his affairs by iudgement. 9. He hath distributed and given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever: his horn shalbe exalted with glory. provver. 3.9. Honour the lord with thy riches, and with the first fruits of all thine increase. provver. 28.27. He that giveth unto the poor, shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes, shall haue many curses. Isaias. 58.7. Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that wander, unto thine house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him, and hid not thyself from thine own flesh. Theft is not only that, which the vulgar sort take it to be, but also all traffic and means, which they use for to draw unto themselves, the substance and goods of their neighbours, whether it be by piracy, roberie: theft, or all other like pilling& polling: whether it be by fetches, fraud, force, fleights, futtletie, craft, cozenage, guile and deceit. Briefly& in sum, in what sort soever we witting and willingly defraud& deceive our neighbour that is theft: for to rehearse all the kindes of theft would be to long. moreover it is theft, if one do not his duty toward others according to his vocation, unto the which he is called, as receivers, proctors, artificers, farmers, solicitors, advocates, and such like. And for as much as we are commanded that we haue a mutual care the one of the other, as members of one body: the inhumanity of those which bear no favour, which do not help and succour those which stand in need, when as they may, is very theft before God. Lastly that which was said of murder& of adultery, may here also haue place: to wit, that theft before God is not judged onely by the outward action, but also by the inward desire and affection of the heart. Wherefore God doth also judge him a thief, which unlawfully desireth to haue that which belongeth& appartaineth to his neighbour, although he bring not his dedesires to an effect, and accomplish his covetous affection. THE NINTH commandment. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. Exod. 23.1. Thou shalt not receive a false tale, neither shalt thou put thine hand with the wicked, to be a false witness. 2. Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil, neither agree in a controversy, to decline after many and overthrow truth, &c 7. Thou shalt keep thee far from a false matter. Deut. 19.16. If a false witness rise up against a man to accuse him of trespass. 17. Then both the men which strive together, shall stand before the Lord, even before the Priestes, and the Iudges, which shalbe in those dayes. 18. And the Iudges shall make diligent inquisition: and if the witness be found false, and hath given false witness against his brother. 19. Then shall ye do unto him, as he had thought to do unto his brother: so thou shalt take evil away forth of the midst of thee. 20. And the rest shall hear this, and fear, and shall henceforth commit no more any such wickedness among you. 21. Therefore thine eye shall haue no compassion, but life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot. Psal. 5.6. Thou shalt destroy them that speak lies. Psal. 12.2. They speak deceitfully every one with his neighbour, flattering with their lips, and speak with a double heart. 3. The Lord cut of all flattering lips, and the tongue that speak proud things. Psal. 15.2. He that walketh uprightly and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. 3. He that slaundereth not with his tongue, nor doth evil to his neighbour, nor receiveth a false report against his neighbour. Psal. 34.12. 1. Peter. 3.10. What man is he, that desireth life, and loveth long dayes for to see good 13. keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips: that they speak no guile. Psal. 50.19. Thou givest thy mouth to evil, and with thy tongue thou forgest deceit. proverb 6.16. These six things doth the lord hate: yea, his soul abhorreth seven. 17. The haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and the hands that sheede innocent blood. 18. An heart that imagineth wicked enterprises, feet that be swift in running to mischief. 19. A false witness that speaketh lies, and him that raiseth up contention among breathren. proverb. 12.17. He that speaketh the truth, will show righteousness: but a false witness useth dece●t. Prou. 19.5. A false witness shall not be unpunished: and he that speaketh lies shall not escape. proverb. 24.9. The scorner is abomination unto men. Prou. 25.18. The man that beareth false witness against his neighbour, is like an hammer, and a sword,& a sharp arrow. proverb. 26.28. A false tongue hateth the afflicted, and a flattering mouth causeth ruin. Matth. 19.18. Rom. 13.9. Thou shalt not bear false witness. Ephes. 4.25. Wherefore cast of lying and speak every man the truth unto his neighbour: for we are members one of another. james. 4.11. speak not evil one of another, breathren, he that speaketh evil of his brother, or he that condemneth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and condemneth the lawe: and if thou condemnest the law, thou art not an observer of the law, but a judge. 12. There is one lawgiver which is able to save, and to destroy, who art thou that judgest another man? 1. Peter. 2.1. Wherfore laying aside all maliciousness and all guile, and dissimulation, and envy, and all evil speaking. 2. As newborne babes desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby. False witnesses are not onely those which in iudgement depose falsely against their neighbour: but whosoever hurteth by falsehood, the renown and good name of an other in what sort soever it be, whether, it be publicly, or privately, whether it be by word, or writing, or painting, or signs and tokens. Wherefore are forbidden all false reports, all detractions, all false accusations, al defamations, al mockeries, all querkes and quippes, all gibes and jests, all bitter scoffs and taunts, by the which one either openly or secretly nippeth, and as it were pricketh and pincheth any one even to the gaule. moreover, when any one doth deprave, alter, change or disguise the words of any other turning them to evil, albeit they were spoken to a good intent, or may be well taken, or at the lest are not of themselves nought and wicked: as did the witnesses of Iesus Christ. That is a kind also of false witness, when as by silence or dissimulation, one suffereth& permitteth his neighbour to be defamed, or at the lest defrauded: especially when it is by the magistrate required at our hands, that we speak the truth and nothing but the truth, for the testimony& witness are not simply forbidden, but the falsehood. Wherefore to haue the mouth shut, and to hid the faults of those which do offend, and to soothe thē up in their sin, for fear of defaming them, is to wrest and writhe the commandment, from his true& proper sense and meaning, and not to haue respect unto the end and scope of the law-maker and giver, which is mutually, to exercise love and charity one toward the other. Therefore even as we are bound, to bear witness of the truth, when we are required, so ought we also to reprehend, when occasion shalbe offered, yea and that to accuse him to the Church and congregation, so that all be done in simplicity, in love and charity. THE TENTH commandment. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbours house, Thou shalt not covet thy neighbours wife, Thou shalt not covet thy neighbours servant, nor his maid, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is his, &c. Genes. 6.5. When the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth,& all the imaginations of the thoughts of his heart, were onely evil continually. 6. Then it repented the Lord, that he had made man in the earth,& he was sorry in his heart. Genes. 8.21. The imagination of mans heart is evil even from his youth: neither will I smite any more all things living as I haue done. Ierem. 17.9. The heart is deceitful and wicked above all things, who can know it? Rom. 6.12. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. 13. neither give your members as weapons of unrighteousness unto sin: but give yourselves unto God, as they that are alive from the dead, and give your members as weapons of righteousness unto God. Rom. 7.17.20. Now then, it is no more I, that do it, but the sin that dwelleth in me. 23. But I see an other law in my members, rebelling against the law of my mind, and leading me captive unto the law of sin, which is in my members. Rom. 8.6. For the wisdom of the flesh is death, but the wisdom of the spirit is life and peace. 7. Because the wisdom of the flesh is enemy against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither in deed can be. 8. So then they that are in the flesh can not please God. OF AVARICE AND covetousness. proverb. 15.27. He that is greedy of gain, troubleth his own house: but he that hateth gifts, shall live. Isa. 56.11. And these greedy dogges can never haue enough: and these sheepe-heardes can not understand: for they all look to their own way, every one for his advantage, and for his own purpose. Isaias. 57.17. For his wicked covetousness I am angry with him, and haue smitten him: I hide me and was angry, yet he went away, and turned after the way of his own heart. Ierem. 6.13. For from the least of them, even unto the greatest of them, every one is given unto covetousness, and from the Prophet, even unto the Priest, they all deal falsely. Iere. 8.10. For every one, from the least unto the greatest, is given to covetousness, and from the Prophet even unto the Priest, every one dealeth falsely. Math. 6.19. Lay not up treasures for yourselves vpon the earth, where the moth and cancar corrupt, and where theeues dig through and steal. 20. But lay up treasures for yourselves in heaven, where neither the moth nor cancar corrupteth, and where theeues neither dig through nor steal. 21. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. 22. The light of the body is the eye: if then thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be light. 23. But if thine eye be wicked, then all thy body shall be dark. Mat. 16.26. For what shall it profit a man, though he should win the whole world, if he lose his own soul? Mat. 19.23. verily I say unto you, that a rich man, shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. 24. And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, then for a rich man, to enter into the kingdom of God. mark. 10.24. How hard it is for them that trust in riches, to enter into the kingdom of God! 25. It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, then for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. Luke. 12.15. Wherefore he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for though a man haue abundance, yet his life standeth not in his riches. 33. Make you bags, which wax not old, a treasure that can never fail in heaven, where no thief cometh, neither moth corrupteth. Luke. 18.24. With what difficulty shall they that haue riches, enter into the kingdom of God? Rom. 7.7. For I had not known lust, except the Law had said, Thou shalt not lust. 1. Cor. 10.24. Let no man seek his own, but every man anothers wealth. 1. Corinth. 13.5. It disdaineth not, it seeketh not her own things: it is not prou●ked to anger: it thinketh not evil. 1. Tim. 6.6. But godliness is great gain, if a man be content with that he hath. 7. For we brought nothing into the world, and it is certain, that wee can carry nothing out. 8. Therefore when we haue food and raiment, let us therewith be content. 9. For they that will be rich, fall into temptation and snares, and into many foolish and noisome lusts, which drown men in perdition and destruction. 10. For the desire of money, is the roote of all evil, which while some lusted after, they erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. Hebr. 13.5. Let your conversation be without covetousness, and be content with those things that ye haue: for he hath said, I will not fail thee, neither forsake thee. 6. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, neither will I fear, what man can do unto me. james. 1.14. But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away by his own concupiscence, and is enticed. 15. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin, and sin when it is finished, bringeth forth death. 1. John. 2.15. If any man love the world, the love of the father is not in him. 16. For all that is in the world( as the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life,) is not of the father, but is of the world. 17. And the world passeth away, and the lusts thereof. but he that fulfilleth the will of God, abideth ever. THE EXPOSITION OF this commandment. romans. 7.7. I knew not sin, but by the Law: For I had not known lust, except the Law had said, Thou shalt not lust. 8. For without the Law sin is dead. 9. For I once was alive, without the Lawe: but when the commaund●ment came, sin revived. God doth not condemn onely the exterior faults, and outward offences( that is to say, which are put in practise, and brought to effect,) and the evil wills, mindes, and cogitations, but also all lust and concupiscence whatsoever, which doth solicit, provoke, and prick us forward to naughtiness& wickedness. And albeit here is made mention only of lust and concupiscence touching adultery, and covetousness, forasmuch as unto them we are most inclined, notwithstanding that also is forbidden whose will of the mind and outward works are forbidden and defended. A brief SVMMARIE and content of all the commandments, in the which consisteth the whole observation and accomplishment of them. Math. 22.36. master which is the greatest commandment in the Law? 37. Iesus said to him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, with all thy soul,& with all thy mind. 38. This is the first and the great commandment. 39. And the second is like unto this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 40. On these two commandments hangeth the whole Law, and the Prophets. John. 13.34. A new commandment give I unto you, that ye love one an other, as I haue loved you: that ye also love one another. 35. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye haue love one to another. Rom. 13.8. Owe nothing to any man, but to love one another: for he that loveth an other, hath fulfilled the Law. 9. For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet: and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, even in this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 10. love doth not evil to his neighbour: therefore is love the fulfilling of the Law. galat. 5.14. For all the Law is fulfilled in one word, which is this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 1. Tim. 1.5. For the end of the commandment is, love out of a pure heart and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned. 1. John. 4.19. We love him, because he loved us first. 20. If any man say, I love God, and hate his brother, he is a liar: for how can he that loveth not his brother, whom he hath seen, love God whom he hath not seen? 21. And this commandment haue we of him, that he that loveth God, should love his brother also. THE LAW WRITTEN in the heartes of the faithful. Isaias. 54.13. John. 6.45. And thy children shall be taught of the Lord,& much peace shall be to thy children. Ierem. 31.33. Hebr. 8.10.11.12. But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israell, after those dayes, saith the Lord, I will put my Lawe in their inward partes, and writ it in their heartes, and will be their God, and they shall be my people. 34. And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, know the Lord: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the Lord: for I will forgive their iniquity,& will remember their sins no more. Ierem. 32.39. And I will give them one heart, and one way, that they may fear me for ever, for the wealth of them, and of their children after them. Ezech. 11.19. and 36.27. And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within their bowels: and I will take the stony heart out of their bodies, and will give them an heart of flesh. 20. That they may walk in my statutes, and keep my judgements, execute them: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God. 2. Cor. 3.3. In that ye are manifest, to be the epistle of Christ, ministered by us, and written, not with ink, but with the spirit of the living God, not in tables of ston, but in fleshly tables of the heart. THE END AND FVLfilling of the Law in Christ, and by Christ. Math. 5.17. think not that I am come to destroy the Law, or the Prophetes. I am not come to destroy them but to fulfil them. Rom. 8.2. For the Law of the spirit of life which is in Christ Iesus, hath freed me from the Law of sin and of death. 3. For( that that was impossible to the Law, inasmuch as it was weak, because of the flesh) God sending his own son, in the similitude of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh. 4. That the righteousness of the Lawe might be fulfilled in us, which walk not after the flesh, but after the spirit. Rom. 10.4. For Christ is the end of the Law, for righteousness unto every one that believeth. Eph. 2.14. For he is our peace, which hath made of both one, and hath broken the stop of the partition wall. 15. In abrogating through his flesh the hatred, that is, the Law of commandments, which standeth in ordinances, for to make of two one new man in himself, so making peace. 16. And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body, by his cross, and slay hatred thereby. Hebr. 2.2. For if the word spoken by Angels was steadfast, and every transgression, and disobedience received a just recompense of reward. 3. How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation, which at the first began to be preached by the Lord, and afterward was confirmed unto us by them that heard him. 4. God bearing witness thereto, both with signs and wonders, and with diverse miracles, and gifts of the holy Ghost, according unto his own will. Hebr. 7.19. For the Law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope made perfect, whereby we draw near unto God. THE COMMAVNDEment which God gave to all men to keep his Law. And first to all rulers& gouernours of the people, to cause it to be in greater recommendation. numbers. 15.39. And he shall haue the fringes, that when ye look vpon them, ye may remember all the commandments of the Lord,& do them: and that ye seek not after your own heartes, nor after your own eyes, after the which ye go a whoring, 40. That ye may remember and do all my commandments, and be holy unto your God. Deut. 4.6. keep them therefore,& do them: for that is your wisdom, and your understanding in the sight of the people, which shall hear all these ordinances, and shall say, only this people is wise, and of understanding, and a great nation. 7. For what nation is so great, unto whom the gods come so near unto them, as the Lord our God is nearer unto us, in all that we call unto him for? 8. And what nation is so great, that hath ordinances and laws so righteous, as all this Law, which I set before you this day? 9. But take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, that thou forget not the things which thine eyes haue seen, and that they depart not out of thine heart, all the dayes of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons sons. Deut. 6.6. And these words which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart. 7. And thou shalt rehearse them continually unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou tarriest in thine house, and as thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. 8. And thou shalt bind them for a sign vpon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes 9. Also thou shalt writ them vpon the posts of thine house, and vpon thy gates. Deut. 32.46. Set your heartes unto all the words, which I testify against you this day, that ye may command them unto your children, that they may observe and do all the words of this Lawe. HOWE THAT WEE ought not to add or diminish from the Law and word of God, but keep it diligently without declining either to the right hand or to the left. Deut. 4.2. Ye shall put nothing unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye take ought therefrom, that ye may keep the commandments of the Lord your God, which I command you. Deut. 5.32. Ios. 1.7. and 2.36. Take heed therefore, that ye do as the Lord your God hath commanded you, turn not aside to the right hand, nor to the left. 33. But walk in all the ways which the Lord your God hath commanded you, that ye may live, and that it may go well with you: and that ye may sung your dayes in the land which ye shall possess. josh. 6.18. And thou shalt do that which is right and good in the sight of the Lord. josh. 12.8. Ye shall not do after all these things that we do hear this day: that is, every man whatsoever seemeth him good in his own eyes. 28. Take heed, and hear all these words which I command thee, that it may go well with thee, and with thy children after thee for ever, when thou dost that which is good and right in the sight of the Lord thy God. 32. Therefore whatsoever I command you, take heed you do it: thou shalt put nothing thereto, nor take ought therefrom. Ioshua. 1.7. only be thou strong, and of a most valiant courage, that thou mayst observe and do according to the Lawe which Moses my servant hath commanded thee: thou shalt not turn away from it, to the right hand, nor to the left, that thou mayest prosper whethersoever thou goest. Ioshua. 23.6. Be ye therefore of a valiant courage, to observe and do all that is written in the book of the Law of Moses, that ye turn not therefrom, to the right hand nor to the left. galat. 1.8. But though that we, or an angel from heaven, preach unto you otherwise then that, which we haue preached unto you, let him be accursed. THE LAW IS GOOD and holy. Rom. 7.12. The Law is holy, and the commandment is holy, and just, and good. 1. Timoth. 1.8. And we know, that the Law is good, if a man use it lawfully. ALTHOVGH IT doth not justify, and bring any one to perfection. Rom. 3.19. Now we know that what soever the law saith, it saith it to them which are under the law, that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world be culpable before God. 20. Therefore by the words of the law shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the lawe cometh the knowledge of sin. Rom. 4.13. For the promise that he should be the heir of the world, was not given to Abraham or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith. 14. For if they which are of the law, be heires, faith is made void, and the promise is made of none effect. Rom. 8.3. For( it was impossible unto the law, inasmuch as it was weak, because of the flesh) God sending his own son in the similitude of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh. 4. That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, which walk not after the flesh, but after the spirit. Gal. 2.16. Know that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Iesus Christ: even we, I say, haue believed in Iesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ and not by the works of the law, because that by the works of the law no flesh shalbe justified. 21. I do not abrogate the grace of God: for if righteousness be by the law, then Christ died without a cause. Gal. 3.18. For if the inheritance be of the law it is no more by the promise, but God gave it to Abraham by promise 21. Is the law then against the promise of God? God forbid: for if there had ben a lawe given which could haue given life, surely righteousness should haue been by the law. 22. But the Scripture hath concluded al under sin, that the promise by the faith of Iesus Christ should be given to them that beleeue. Gal. 5.4. Ye are abolished from Christ: whosoever are justified by the law, ye are fallen from grace. 5. For we through the spirit wait for the hope of righteousness through faith. THE LAW without the spirit doth but breed condemnation and death& without that sin is not imputed, and by it sin is augmented. Rom. 4.15. For the law causeth wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression. Rom. 5.13. For unto the time of the law was sin in the world, but sin is not imputed, while there is no law. 20. moreover the lawe entred thereupon that the offence should abound, nevertheless where sin abounded, there grace abounded much more. Rom. 7.8. But sin took an occasion by the commandment, and wrought in me all maner of concupiscence: for without the law sin is dead. 9. For I once was alive, without the law, but when the commandement came, sin revived, 10. But I died and the same commandment, which was ordained unto life, was found to be unto me unto death. 11. For sin took occasion by the commandment, and deceived me, and thereby slay me. 13. Was that then which is good made death unto me? God forbid: but sin that it might appear sin, wrought death in me by that which is good, that sin might be out of measure sinful by the commandment. 1. Cor. 15.56. The sting of death is sine: and the strength of sin is the law. 2. Cor. 3.7. If then the ministration of death written with letters, and engraven in stones, was grievous: so that the children of Israell could not behold the face of Moses, for the glory of his countenance( which glory is done away) 8. How shall not the administation of the spirit be more glorious? 9, For if the ministry of condemnation was glorious, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. OF our DVTIE toward God Deut. 10.12. And now Israell, what doth the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk in ●ll his ways, and to love him, and to s●rue the lord thy God with all thine hea●te, and with all thy soul. 13. That thou keep the commandments of the lord, and his ordinances, which I command thee this day, for thy wealth. Luke. 10.28. This do and thou shalt live. Luke. 17.10. So likewise ye when ye haue done all those things which are commanded you, say, we are unprofitable servants: we haue done that which was our duty to do. james. 2.10. For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet faileth in one point, he is guilty of all. 11. For he that said, Thou shalt not commit adultery, said also, Thou shalt not kill. Now though thou dost none adultery, yet if thou killest, thou art a transgressor of the law. AN ADMONITION TO those which assemble themselves together either to teach or to take their refection. 1. Cor. 10.31. Whether therefore ye eat or dinke, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. 1. Cor. 14.26. When ye come together, according as every one of you hath a psalm, or hath doctrine, or hath a tongue, or hath revelation, or hath interpretation, let all things be done unto edifiyng. 1. Timoth. 4.1. Now the spirit speaketh evidently, that in the latter time some shall depart from the faith,& shal give heed unto spirites of error, and doctrines of devils. 2. Which speak lies through hypocrisy, and haue their consciences burned with an hote iron. 3. Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanks giuing of them, that beleeue and know the truth. 4. For every creature of God is good, and nothing ought to be refused, if it be received with thanks-giueing. 5. For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer. CHRISTES EXAMPLE. Matth. 26.26. And as they did eat, Iesus took the bread and when he had given thankes, he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, and said, take eat this is my body. 30. And when they had song a psalm, they went out into the mount of Oliues. THE form OF prayer before meats. Psal. 67.1. God be merciful unto us and bless us, and cause his face to shine among vs. 2. That they may know thy way vpon earth,& thy saving health among all nations. AN OTHER. Ephes. 1.3. Blessed be God even the father of our Lord Iesus Christ, which hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly things in Christ, as he hath chosen us in him, before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy,& without blame before him in love. AN OTHER PRAYER. Ephes. 3.20. unto him therefore that is able to do exceeding abundantly, above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, 21. Be praise in the Church by Iesus Christ, throughout all generations for ever Amen. AN OTHER. Colos. 3.17. And what soever, ye shall do, in word, or deed, do all in the name of the lord Iesus, giueing thankes to God even the father by him. AN ADMONITION TO aclowledge Gods goodness and benefits towards vs. Deut. 6.11. And when thou hast eaten and art full. 12. Beware lest thou forget the Lord, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt out of the house of bondage. THANKES-GIVING after meales 1. Timoth. 17. Now unto the king everlasting, immortal, invisible, unto God onely wise, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen. Apoc. 5.13. Praise and honour, and glory and power be unto him, that sitteth vpon the throne& unto the lamb for evermore. AN OTHER. Apoc. 7.12. Praise and glory and wisdom, and thankes and honour, and power, and might, be unto God for evermore. Amen. A general blessing. Numb. 6.23. Thus shall ye bless the children of Israell, and say unto them 24. The Lord bless thee and keep thee, 25. The Lord make his face shine vpon thee, and be merciful unto thee, 26 The Lord lift up his countenance vpon thee& give thee peace. 27. So they shal put my name vpon the children of Israell, and I will bless them. AN OTHER BLESSING on them which keep Gods will and commandment. Deut. 28.1. If thou shalt obey diligently the voice of the lord thy God, and observe and do all his commandments, which I command thee this day, then the Lord thy God will set thee on high above all the nations of the earth: &c. 3. Blessed shalt thou be in the city, and blessed also in the field. Mat. 6.33. But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be ministered unto you. WHAT GOD IS. GOd is infinite power, wisdom and goodness, without beginning and without end, the unchangeable true, just& merciful: one God in three persons, Father, son, and holy Ghost: in whom are all things, by whom all things were made,& of whom all things are given. WHAT MAN IS. MAn was created after the image of God in righteousness and holynes of life, garnished with reason, capable of perpetual felicity and blessedness, made partaker of the heavenly wisdom, righteousness, virtue, integrity, truth, innocency: constituted and ordained master and Lord over all the creatures of the earth: but by the sin of our first-father Adam, he was deprived of all these blessings, and became poor, miserable, wicked, ignorant of the good, unjust, a liar, variable, inconstant, covetous of honour, an hypocrite, subject to sin, in the which he is born and conceived. MATTH. XIX. Yf thou wilt enter into everlasting life keep the commandments.