Question: What do the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience require?

Answer: The vows of poverty, chastity and obedience require that those who make them shall not possess or keep any property or goods for themselves alone; that they shall not marry or be guilty of any immodest acts, and that they shall strictly obey their lawful superiors.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Has it always been a custom with pious Christians to make vows and promises to God?

Answer: It has always been a custom with pious Christians to make vows and promises to God; to beg His help for some special end, or to thank Him for some benefit received. They have promised pilgrimages, good works or alms and they have vowed to erect churches, convents, hospitals or schools.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What is a pilgrimage?

Answer: A pilgrimage is a journey to a holy place made in a religious manner and for a religious purpose.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {351} Is it a sin not to fulfill our vows?

Answer: Not to fulfill our vows is a sin, mortal or venial, according to the nature of the vow and the intention we had in making it.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Are we bound to keep an unlawful oath or vow?

Answer: We are not bound, but, on the contrary, positively forbidden to keep an unlawful oath or vow. We are guilty of sin in taking such an oath or making such a vow, and we would be guilty of still greater sin by keeping them.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {352} What is forbidden by the second Commandment?

Answer: The second Commandment forbids all false, rash, unjust, and unnecessary oaths, blasphemy, cursing, and profane words.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: When is an oath rash, unjust or unnecessary?

Answer: An oath is rash when we are not sure of the truth of what we swear; it is unjust when it injures another unlawfully; and it is unnecessary when there is no good reason for taking it.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What is blasphemy, and what are profane words?

Answer: Blasphemy is any word or action intended as an insult to God. To say He is cruel or find fault with His works is blasphemy. It is a much greater sin than cursing or taking God's name in vain. Profane words mean here bad, irreverent or irreligious words.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {353} What is the third Commandment?

Answer: The third Commandment is: Remember thou keep holy the Sabbath day.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {354} What are we commanded by the third Commandment?

Answer: By the third Commandment we are commanded to keep holy the Lord's day and the holydays of obligation, on which we are to give our time to the service and worship of God.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What are holydays of obligation?

Answer: Holydays of obligation are special feasts of the Church on which we are bound, under pain of mortal sin, to hear Mass and to keep from servile or bodily labors when it can be done without great loss or inconvenience. Whoever, on account of their circumstances, cannot give up work on holydays of obligation should make every effort to hear Mass and should also explain in confession the necessity of working on holydays.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {355} How are we to worship God on Sundays and holydays of obligation?

Answer: We are to worship God on Sundays and holydays of obligation by hearing Mass, by prayer, and by other good works.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Name some of the good works recommended for Sunday.

Answer: Some of the good works recommended for Sunday are: The reading of religious books or papers, teaching Catechism, bringing relief to the poor or sick, visiting the Blessed Sacrament, attending Vespers, Rosary or other devotions in the Church; also attending the meetings of religious sodalities or societies. It is not necessary to spend the whole Sunday in such good works, but we should give some time to them, that for the love of God we may do a little more than what is strictly commanded.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Is it forbidden, then, to seek any pleasure or enjoyment on Sunday?

Answer: It is not forbidden to seek lawful pleasure or enjoyment on Sunday, especially to those who are occupied during the week, for God did not intend the keeping of the Sunday to be a punishment, but a benefit to us. Therefore, after hearing Mass we may take such recreation as is necessary or useful for us; but we should avoid any vulgar, noisy or disgraceful amusements that turn the day of rest and prayer into a day of scandal and sin.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {356} Are the Sabbath day and the Sunday the same?

Answer: The Sabbath day and the Sunday are not the same. The Sabbath is the seventh day of the week, and is the day which was kept holy in the old law; the Sunday is the first day of the week, and is the day which is kept holy in the new law.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What is meant by the Old and New Law?

Answer: The Old Law means the law or religion given to the Jews; the New Law means the law or religion given to Christians.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {357} Why does the Church command us to keep the Sunday holy instead of the Sabbath?

Answer: The Church commands us to keep the Sunday holy instead of the Sabbath because on Sunday Christ rose from the dead, and on Sunday He sent the Holy Ghost upon the Apostles.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Do we keep Sunday instead of Saturday holy for any other reason?

Answer: We keep Sunday instead of Saturday holy also to teach that the Old Law is not now binding upon us, but that we must keep the New Law, which takes its place.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {358} What is forbidden by the third Commandment?

Answer: The third Commandment forbids all unnecessary servile work and whatever else may hinder the due observance of the Lord's day.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {359} What are servile works?

Answer: Servile works are those which require labor rather of body than of mind.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: From what do servile works derive their name?

Answer: Servile works derive their name from the fact that such works were formerly done by slaves. Therefore, reading, writing, studying and, in general, all works that slaves did not perform are not considered servile works.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {360} Are servile works on Sunday ever lawful?

Answer: Servile works are lawful on Sundays when the honor of God, the good of our neighbor, or necessity requires them.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Give some examples of when the honor of God, the good of our neighbor or necessity may require servile works on Sunday.

Answer: The honor of God, the good of our neighbor or necessity may require servile works on Sunday, in such cases as the preparation of a place for Holy Mass, the saving of property in storms or accidents, the cooking of meals and similar works.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {361} What is the fourth Commandment?

Answer: The fourth Commandment is: Honor thy father and thy mother.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What does the word "honor" in this commandment include?

Answer: The word "honor" in this commandment includes the doing of everything necessary for our parents' spiritual and temporal welfare, the showing of proper respect, and the fulfillment of all our duties to them.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {362} What are we commanded by the fourth Commandment?

Answer: We are commanded by the fourth Commandment to honor, love and obey our parents in all that is not sin.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Why should we refuse to obey parents or superiors who command us to sin?

Answer: We should refuse to obey parents or superiors who command us to sin because they are not then acting with God's authority, but contrary to it and in violation of His laws.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {363} Are we bound to honor and obey others than our parents?

Answer: We are also bound to honor and obey our bishops, pastors, magistrates, teachers, and other lawful superiors.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Who are meant by magistrates?

Answer: By magistrates are meant all officials of whatever rank who have a lawful right to rule over us and our temporal possessions or affairs.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Who are meant by lawful superiors?

Answer: By lawful superiors are meant all persons to whom we are in any way subject, such as employers or others under whose authority we live or work.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What is the duty of servants or workmen to their employers?

Answer: The duty of servants or workmen to their employers is to serve them faithfully and honestly, according to their agreement, and to guard against injuring their property or reputation.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {364} Have parents and superiors any duties toward those who are under their charge?

Answer: It is the duty of parents and superiors to take good care of all under their charge and give them proper direction and example.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: If parents or superiors neglect their duty or abuse their authority in any particular, should we follow their direction and example in that particular?

Answer: If parents or superiors neglect their duty or abuse their authority in any particular we should not follow their direction or example in that particular, but follow the dictates of our conscience in the performance of our duty.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What is the duty of employers to their servants or workmen?

Answer: The duty of employers to their servants or workmen is to see that they are kindly and fairly treated and provided for, according to their agreement, and that they are justly paid their wages at the proper time.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {365} What is forbidden by the fourth Commandment?

Answer: The fourth Commandment forbids all disobedience, contempt, and stubbornness towards our parents or lawful superiors.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What is meant by contempt and stubbornness?

Answer: By contempt is meant wilful disrespect for lawful authority, and by stubbornness is meant wilful determination not to yield to lawful authority.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {366} What is the fifth Commandment?

Answer: The fifth Commandment is: Thou shalt not kill.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What killing does this commandment forbid?

Answer: This commandment forbids the killing only of human beings.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: How do we know that this commandment forbids the killing only of human beings?

Answer: We know that this commandment forbids the killing only of human beings because, after giving this commandment, God commanded that animals be killed for sacrifice in the temple of Jerusalem, and God never contradicts Himself.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {367} What are we commanded by the fifth Commandment?

Answer: We are commanded by the fifth Commandment to live in peace and union with our neighbor, to respect his rights, to seek his spiritual and bodily welfare, and to take proper care of our own life and health.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What sin is it to destroy one's own life, or commit suicide, as this act is called?

Answer: It is a mortal sin to destroy one's own life or commit suicide, as this act is called, and persons who wilfully and knowingly commit such an act die in a state of mortal sin and are deprived of Christian burial. It is also wrong to expose one's self unnecessarily to the danger of death by rash or foolhardy feats of daring.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Is it ever lawful for any cause to deliberately and intentionally take away the life of an innocent person?

Answer: It is never lawful for any cause to deliberately and intentionally take away the life of an innocent person. Such deeds are always murder, and can never be excused for any reason, however important or necessary.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Under what circumstances may human life be lawfully taken?

Answer: Human life may be lawfully taken (1) In self-defense, when we are unjustly attacked and have no other means of saving our own lives; (2) in a just war, when the safety or rights of the nation require it; (3) by the lawful execution of a criminal, fairly tried and found guilty of a crime punishable by death when the preservation of law and order and the good of the community require such execution.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {368} What is forbidden by the fifth Commandment?

Answer: The fifth Commandment forbids all wilful murder, fighting, anger, hatred, revenge, and bad example.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Can the fifth commandment be broken by giving scandal or bad example and by inducing others to sin?

Answer: The fifth commandment can be broken by giving scandal or bad example and inducing others to sin, because such acts may destroy the life of the soul by leading it into mortal sin.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What is scandal?

Answer: Scandal is any sinful word, deed or omission that disposes others to sin, or lessens their respect for God and holy religion.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Why are fighting, anger, hatred and revenge forbidden by the fifth commandment?

Answer: Fighting, anger, hatred and revenge are forbidden by the fifth commandment because they are sinful in themselves and may lead to murder. The commandments forbid not only whatever violates them, but also whatever may lead to their violation.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {369} What is the sixth Commandment?

Answer: The sixth Commandment is: Thou shalt not commit adultery.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {370} What are we commanded by the sixth Commandment?

Answer: We are commanded by the sixth Commandment to be pure in thought and modest in all our looks, words, and actions.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: It is a sin to listen to immodest conversation, songs or jokes?

Answer: It is a sin to listen to immodest conversation, songs or jokes when we can avoid it, or to show in any way that we take pleasure in such things.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {371} What is forbidden by the sixth Commandment?

Answer: The sixth Commandment forbids all unchaste freedom with another's wife or husband; also all immodesty with ourselves or others in looks, dress, words, and actions.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Why are sins of impurity the most dangerous?

Answer: Sins of impurity are the most dangerous (1) Because they have the most numerous temptations; (2) because, if deliberate, they are always mortal, and (3) because, more than other sins, they lead to the loss of faith.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {372} Does the sixth Commandment forbid the reading of bad and immodest books and newspapers?

Answer: The sixth Commandment does forbid the reading of bad and immodest books and newspapers.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What should be done with immodest book and newspapers?

Answer: Immodest books and newspapers should be destroyed as soon as possible, and if we cannot destroy them ourselves we should induce their owners to do so.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What books does the Church consider bad?

Answer: The Church considers bad all books containing teaching contrary to faith or morals, or that wilfully misrepresent Catholic doctrine and practice.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What places are dangerous to the virtue of purity?

Answer: Indecent theaters and similar places of amusement are dangerous to the virtue of purity, because their entertainments are frequently intended to suggest immodest things.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {373} What is the seventh Commandment?

Answer: The seventh Commandment is: Thou shalt not steal.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What sin is it to steal?

Answer: To steal is a mortal or venial sin, according to the amount stolen either at once or at different times. Circumstances may make the sin greater or less, and they should be explained in confession.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Is stealing ever a sacrilege?

Answer: Stealing is a sacrilege when the thing stolen belongs to the Church and when the stealing takes place in the Church.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What sins are equivalent to stealing?

Answer: All sins of cheating, defrauding or wronging others of their property; also all sins of borrowing or buying with the intention of never repaying are equivalent to stealing.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: In what other ways may persons sin against honesty?

Answer: Persons may sin against honesty also by knowingly receiving, buying or sharing in stolen goods; likewise by giving or taking bribes for dishonest purposes.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {374} What are we commanded by the seventh Commandment?

Answer: By the seventh Commandment we are commanded to give to all men what belongs to them and to respect their property.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: How may persons working for others be guilty of dishonesty?

Answer: Persons working for others may be guilty of dishonesty by idling the time for which they are paid; also by doing bad work or supplying bad material without their employer's knowledge.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: In what other way may a person be guilty of dishonesty?

Answer: A person may be guilty of dishonesty in getting money or goods by false pretenses and by using either for purposes for which they were not given.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {375} What is forbidden by the seventh Commandment?

Answer: The seventh Commandment forbids all unjust taking or keeping what belongs to another.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What must we do with things found?

Answer: We must return things found to their lawful owners as soon as possible, and we must also use reasonable means to find the owners if they are unknown to us.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What must we do if we discover we have bought stolen goods?

Answer: If we discover we have bought stolen goods and know their lawful owners we must return the goods to them as soon as possible without demanding compensation from the owner for what we paid for the goods.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {376} Are we bound to restore ill-gotten goods?

Answer: We are bound to restore ill-gotten goods, or the value of them, as far as we are able; otherwise we cannot be forgiven.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What must we do if we cannot restore all we owe, or if the person to whom we should restore be dead?

Answer: If we cannot restore all we owe, we must restore as much as we can, and if the person to whom we should restore be dead we must restore to his children or heirs, and if these cannot be found we may give alms to the poor.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What must one do who cannot pay his debts and yet wishes to receive the Sacraments?

Answer: One who cannot pay his debts and yet wishes to receive the Sacraments must sincerely promise and intend to pay them as soon as possible, and must without delay make every effort to do so.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {377} Are we obliged to repair the damage we have unjustly caused?

Answer: We are bound to repair the damage we have unjustly caused.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {378} What is the eighth Commandment?

Answer: The eighth Commandment is: Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {379} What are we commanded by the eighth Commandment?

Answer: We are commanded by the eighth Commandment to speak the truth in all things, and to be careful of the honor and reputation of every one.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What is a lie?

Answer: A lie is a sin committed by knowingly saying what is untrue with the intention of deceiving. To swear to a lie makes the sin greater, and such swearing is called perjury. Pretense, hypocrisy, false praise, boasting, &c., are similar to lies.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: How can we know the degree of sinfulness in a lie?

Answer: We can know the degree of sinfulness in a lie by the amount of harm it does and from the intention we had in telling it.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Will a good reason for telling a lie excuse it?

Answer: No reason, however good, will excuse the telling of a lie, because a lie is always bad in itself. It is never allowed, even for a good intention to do a thing that is bad in itself.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {380} What is forbidden by the eighth Commandment?

Answer: The eighth Commandment forbids all rash judgments, backbiting, slanders, and lies.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What are rash judgment, backbiting, slander and detraction?

Answer: Rash judgment is believing a person guilty of sin without a sufficient cause. Backbiting is saying evil things of another in his absence. Slander is telling lies about another with the intention of injuring him. Detraction is revealing the sins of another without necessity.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Is it ever allowed to tell the faults of another?

Answer: It is allowed to tell the faults of another when it is necessary to make them known to his parents or superiors, that the faults may be corrected and the wrong doer prevented from greater sin.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What is tale-bearing, and why is it wrong?

Answer: Tale-bearing is the act of telling persons what others have said about them, especially if the things said be evil. It is wrong, because it gives rise to anger, hatred and ill-will, and is often the cause of greater sins.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {381} What must they do who have lied about their neighbor and seriously injured his character?

Answer: They who have lied about their neighbor and seriously injured his character must repair the injury done as far as they are able, otherwise they will not be forgiven.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {382} What is the ninth Commandment?

Answer: The ninth Commandment is: Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {383} What are we commanded by the ninth Commandment?

Answer: We are commanded by the ninth Commandment to keep ourselves pure in thought and desire.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {384} What is forbidden by the ninth Commandment?

Answer: The ninth Commandment forbids unchaste thoughts, desires of another's wife or husband, and all other unlawful impure thoughts and desires.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {385} Are impure thoughts and desires always sins?

Answer: Impure thoughts and desires are always sins, unless they displease us and we try to banish them.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {386} What is the tenth Commandment?

Answer: The tenth Commandment is: Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's goods.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What does covet mean?

Answer: Covet means to wish to get wrongfully what another possesses or to begrudge his own to him.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {387} What are we commanded by the tenth Commandment?

Answer: By the tenth Commandment we are commanded to be content with what we have, and to rejoice in our neighbor's welfare.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Should we not, then, try to improve our position in the world?

Answer: We should try to improve our position in the world, provided we can do so honestly and without exposing ourselves to greater temptation or sin.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {388} What is forbidden by the tenth Commandment?

Answer: The tenth Commandment forbids all desires to take or keep wrongfully what belongs to another.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: In what does the sixth commandment differ from the ninth, and the seventh differ from the tenth?

Answer: The sixth commandment differs from the ninth in this, that the sixth refers chiefly to external acts of impurity, while the ninth refers more to sins of thought against purity. The seventh commandment refers chiefly to external acts of dishonesty, while the tenth refers more to thoughts against honesty.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Are not the commandments of the Church also commandments of God?

Answer: The commandments of the Church are also commandments of God, because they are made by His authority, and we are bound under pain of sin to observe them.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What is the difference between the commandments of God and the Commandments of the Church?

Answer: The commandments of God were given by God Himself to Moses on Mount Sinai; the commandments of the Church were given on different occasions by the lawful authorities of the Church. The Commandments given by God Himself cannot be changed by the Church; but the commandments made by the Church itself may be changed by its authority as necessity requires.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {389} Which are the chief commandments of the Church?

Answer: The chief commandments of the Church are six:

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Why has the Church made commandments?

Answer: The Church has made commandments to teach the faithful how to worship God and to guard them from the neglect of their religious duties.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {390} Is it a mortal sin not to hear Mass on a Sunday or a holyday of obligation?

Answer: It is a mortal sin not to hear Mass on a Sunday or a holyday of obligation, unless we are excused for a serious reason. They also commit a mortal sin who, having others under their charge, hinder them from hearing Mass, without a sufficient reason.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What is a "serious reason" excusing one from the obligation of hearing Mass?

Answer: A "serious reason" excusing one from the obligation of hearing Mass is any reason that makes it impossible or very difficult to attend Mass, such as severe illness, great distance from the Church, or the need of certain works that cannot be neglected or postponed.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Are children obliged, under pain of mortal sin, the same as grown persons, to hear Mass on Sundays and holydays of obligation?

Answer: Children who have reached the use of reason are obliged under pain of mortal sin, the same as grown persons, to hear Mass on Sundays and holydays of obligation; but if they are prevented from so doing by parents, or others, then the sin falls on those who prevent them.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {391} Why were holydays instituted by the church?

Answer: Holydays were instituted by the Church to recall to our minds the great mysteries of religion and the virtues and rewards of the saints.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: How many holydays of obligation are there in this country?

Answer: In this country there are six holydays of obligation, namely, (1) Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Dec. 8th); (2) Christmas (Dec. 25th); (3) Feast of the Circumcision of Our Lord (Jan. 1st); (4) Feast of the Ascension of Our Lord (forty days after Easter); (5) Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin (Aug. 15th); and (6) Feast of All Saints (Nov. 1st).

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {392} How should we keep the holydays of obligation?

Answer: We should keep the holydays of obligation as we should keep the Sunday.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Why are certain holydays called holydays of obligation?

Answer: Certain holydays are called holydays of obligation because on such days we are obliged under pain of mortal sin to hear Mass and keep from servile works as we do on Sundays.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What should one do who is obliged to work on a holyday of obligation?

Answer: One who is obliged to work on a holyday of obligation should, if possible, hear Mass before going to work, and should also explain this necessity in confession, so as to obtain the confessor's advice on the subject.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {393} What do you mean by fast-days?

Answer: By fast-days I mean days on which we are allowed but one full meal.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Is it permitted on fast days to take any food besides the one full meal?

Answer: It is permitted on fast days, besides the one full meal, to take two other meatless meals, to maintain strength, according to each one's needs. But together these two meatless meals should not equal another full meal.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Who are obliged to fast?

Answer: All persons over 21 and under 59 years of age, and whose health and occupation will permit them to fast.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Does the Church excuse any classes of persons from the obligation of fasting?

Answer: The Church does excuse certain classes of persons from the obligation of fasting on account of their age, the condition of their health, the nature of their work, or the circumstances in which they live. These things are explained in the Regulations for Lent, read publicly in the Churches each year.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What should one do who doubts whether or not he is obliged to fast?

Answer: In doubt concerning fast, a parish priest or confessor should be consulted.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: When do fast days chiefly occur in the year?

Answer: Fast days chiefly occur in the year during Lent and Advent, on the Ember days and on the vigils or eves of some great feasts. A vigil falling on a Sunday is not observed.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What do you mean by Lent, Advent, Ember days and the vigils of great feasts?

Answer: Lent is the seven weeks of penance preceding Easter. Advent is the four weeks of preparation preceding Christmas. Ember days are three days set apart in each of the four seasons of the year as special days of prayer and thanksgiving. Vigils are the days immediately preceding great feasts and spent in spiritual preparation for them.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {394} What do you mean by days of abstinence?

Answer: By days of abstinence I mean days on which no meat at all may be taken (complete abstinence) or on which meat may be taken only once a day (partial abstinence). This is explained in the regulations for Lent. All the Fridays of the year are days of abstinence except when a Holyday of obligation falls on a Friday outside of Lent.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Are children and persons unable to fast bound to abstain on days of abstinence?

Answer: Children, from the age of seven years, and persons who are unable to fast are bound to abstain on days of abstinence, unless they are excused for sufficient reason.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {395} Why does the Church command us to fast and abstain?

Answer: The Church commands us to fast and abstain, in order that we may mortify our passions and satisfy for our sins.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What is meant by our passions and what by mortifying them?

Answer: By our passions are meant our sinful desires and inclinations. Mortifying them means restraining them and overcoming them so that they have less power to lead us into sin.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {396} Why does the Church command us to abstain from flesh-meat on Fridays?

Answer: The Church commands us to abstain from flesh-meat on Fridays in honor of the day on which our Saviour died.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {397} What is meant by the command of confessing at least once a year?

Answer: By the command of confessing at least once a year is meant that we are obliged, under pain of mortal sin, to go to confession within the year.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {398} Should we confess only once a year?

Answer: We should confess frequently, if we wish to lead a good life.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Should we go to confession at our usual time even if we think we have not committed sin since our last confession?

Answer: We should go to confession at our usual time even if we think we have not committed sin since our last confession, because the Sacrament of Penance has for its object not only to forgive sins, but also to bestow grace and strengthen the soul against temptation.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {399} Should children go to confession?

Answer: Children should go to confession when they are old enough to commit sin, which is commonly about the age of seven years.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {400} What sin does he commit who neglects to receive Communion during the Easter time?

Answer: He who neglects to receive Communion during the Easter time commits a mortal sin.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {401} What is the Easter time?

Answer: The Easter time is, in this country, the time between the first Sunday of Lent and Trinity Sunday.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: When is Trinity Sunday?

Answer: Trinity Sunday is the Sunday after Pentecost, or eight weeks after Easter Sunday; so that there are fourteen weeks in which one may comply with the command of the Church to receive Holy Communion between the first Sunday of Lent and Trinity Sunday.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {402} Are we obliged to contribute to the support of our pastors?

Answer: We are obliged to contribute to the support of our pastors, and to bear our share in the expense of the Church and school.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Where did the duty of contributing to the support of the Church and clergy originate?

Answer: The duty of contributing to the support of the Church and clergy originated in the Old Law, when God commanded all the people to contribute to the support of the temple and of its priests.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What does the obligation of supporting the Church and school imply?

Answer: The obligation of supporting the Church and school implies the duty of making use of the Church and school by attending religious worship in the one and by giving Catholic education in the other; because if the Church and school were not necessary for our spiritual welfare we would not be commanded to support them.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Does the fifth commandment of the Church include the support only of our pastors and the Church and school?

Answer: The fifth commandment of the Church includes the support also of our holy father, the Pope, bishops, priests, missions, religious institutions and religion in general.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {403} What is the meaning of the commandment not to marry within the third degree of kindred?

Answer: The meaning of the commandment not to marry within the third degree of kindred is that no one is allowed to marry another within the third degree of blood relationship.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Who are in the third degree of blood relationship?

Answer: Second cousins are in the third degree of blood relationship, and persons whose relationship is nearer than second cousins are in closer degrees of kindred. It is unlawful for persons thus related to marry without a dispensation or special permission of the Church.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Are there other relationships besides blood relationship that render marriage unlawful without a dispensation?

Answer: There are other relationships besides blood relationship that render marriage unlawful without a dispensation, namely, the relationships contracted by marriage, which are called degrees of affinity, and the relationship contracted by being sponsors at Baptism, which is called spiritual affinity.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What should persons about to marry do, if they suspect they are related to each other?

Answer: Persons about to marry, if they suspect they are related to each other, should make known the facts to the priest, that he may examine the degree of relationship and procure a dispensation if necessary.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {404} What is the meaning of the command not to marry privately?

Answer: The command not to marry privately means that none should marry without the blessing of God's priests or without witnesses.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What sin is it for Catholics to be married before the minister of another religion?

Answer: It is a mortal sin for Catholics to be married before the minister of another religion, and they who attempt to do so incur excommunication, and absolution from their sin is reserved to the bishop.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {405} What is the meaning of the precept not to solemnize marriage at forbidden times?

Answer: The meaning of the precept not to solemnize marriage at forbidden times is that during Lent and Advent the marriage ceremony should not be performed with pomp or a nuptial Mass.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {406} What is the nuptial Mass?

Answer: The nuptial Mass is a Mass appointed by the Church to invoke a special blessing upon the married couple.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {407} Should Catholics be married at a nuptial Mass?

Answer: Catholics should be married at a nuptial Mass, because they thereby show greater reverence for the holy Sacrament and bring richer blessings upon their wedded life.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What restrictions does the Church place on the ceremonies of marriage when one of the persons is not a Catholic?

Answer: The Church places several restrictions on the ceremonies of marriage when one of the persons is not a Catholic. The marriage cannot take place in the church; the priest cannot wear his sacred vestments nor use holy water nor bless the ring nor the marriage itself. The Church places these restrictions to show her dislike for such marriages, commonly called mixed marriages.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Why does the Church dislike mixed marriages?

Answer: The Church dislikes mixed marriages because such marriages are frequently unhappy, give rise to many disputes, endanger the faith of the Catholic member of the family, and prevent the religious education of the children.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {408} When will Christ judge us?

Answer: Christ will judge us immediately after our death, and on the last day.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {409} What is the judgment called which we have to undergo immediately after death?

Answer: The judgment we have to undergo immediately after death is called the Particular Judgment.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Where will the particular judgment be held?

Answer: The particular judgment will be held in the place where each person dies, and the soul will go immediately to its reward or punishment.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {410} What is the judgment called which all men have to undergo on the last day?

Answer: The judgment which all men have to undergo on the last day is called the General Judgment.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Will the sentence given at the particular judgment be changed at the general judgment?

Answer: The sentence given at the particular judgment will not be changed at the general judgment, but it will be repeated and made public to all.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {411} Why does Christ judge men immediately after death?

Answer: Christ judges men immediately after death to reward or punish them according to their deeds.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: How may we daily prepare for our judgment?

Answer: We may daily prepare for our judgment by a good examination of conscience, in which we will discover our sins and learn to fear the punishment they deserve.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {412} What are the rewards or punishments appointed for men's souls after the Particular Judgment?

Answer: The rewards or punishments appointed for men's souls after the Particular Judgment are Heaven, Purgatory, and Hell.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {413} What is Hell?

Answer: Hell is a state to which the wicked are condemned, and in which they are deprived of the sight of God for all eternity, and are in dreadful torments.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Will the damned suffer in both mind and body?

Answer: The damned will suffer in both mind and body, because both mind and body had a share in their sins. The mind suffers the "pain of loss" in which it is tortured by the thought of having lost God forever, and the body suffers the "pain of sense" by which it is tortured in all its members and senses.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {414} What is Purgatory?

Answer: Purgatory is the state in which those suffer for a time who die guilty of venial sins, or without having satisfied for the punishment due to their sins.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Why is this state called Purgatory?

Answer: This state is called Purgatory because in it the souls are purged or purified from all their stains; and it is not, therefore, a permanent or lasting state for the soul.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Are the souls in Purgatory sure of their salvation?

Answer: The souls in Purgatory are sure of their salvation, and they will enter heaven as soon as they are completely purified and made worthy to enjoy that presence of God which is called the Beatific Vision.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Do we know what souls are in Purgatory, and how long they have to remain there?

Answer: We do not know what souls are in Purgatory nor how long they have to remain there; hence we continue to pray for all persons who have died apparently in the true faith and free from mortal sin. They are called the faithful departed.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {415} Can the faithful on earth help the souls in Purgatory?

Answer: The faithful on earth can help the souls in Purgatory by their prayers, fasts, alms, deeds; by indulgences, and by having Masses said for them.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Since God loves the souls in Purgatory, why does He punish them?

Answer: Though God loves the souls in Purgatory, He punishes them because His holiness requires that nothing defiled may enter heaven and His justice requires that everyone be punished or rewarded according to what he deserves.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {416} If every one is judged immediately after death, what need is there of a general judgment?

Answer: There is need of a general judgment, though every one is judged immediately after death, that the providence of God, which, on earth, often permits the good to suffer and the wicked to prosper, may in the end appear just before all men.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What is meant by "the Providence of God"?

Answer: By "the Providence of God" is meant the manner in which He preserves, provides for, rules and governs the world and directs all things by His infinite Will.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Are there other reasons for the general judgment?

Answer: There are other reasons for the general judgment, and especially that Christ Our Lord may receive from the whole world the honor denied Him at His first coming, and that all may be forced to acknowledge Him their God and Redeemer.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {417} Will our bodies share in the reward or punishment of our souls?

Answer: Our bodies will share in the reward or punishment of our souls, because through the resurrection they will again be united to them.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: When will the general resurrection or rising of all the dead take place?

Answer: The general resurrection or rising of all the dead will take place at the general judgment, when the same bodies in which we lived on earth will come forth from the grave and be united to our souls and remain united with them forever either in heaven or in hell.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {418} In what state will the bodies of the just rise?

Answer: The bodies of the just will rise glorious and immortal.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {419} Will the bodies of the damned also rise?

Answer: The bodies of the damned will also rise, but they will be condemned to eternal punishment.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Why do we show respect for the bodies of the dead?

Answer: We show respect for the bodies of the dead because they were the dwelling-place of the soul, the medium through which it received the Sacraments, and because they were created to occupy a place in heaven.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {420} What is Heaven?

Answer: Heaven is the state of everlasting life in which we see God face to face, are made like unto Him in glory, and enjoy eternal happiness.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: In what does the happiness in heaven consist?

Answer: The happiness in heaven consists in seeing the beauty of God, in knowing Him as He is, and in having every desire fully satisfied.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: What does St. Paul say of heaven?

Answer: St. Paul says of heaven, "That eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither hath it entered into the heart of man what things God hath prepared for them that love Him." (I. Cor. ii., 9.)

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Are the rewards in heaven and the punishments in hell the same for all who enter into either of these states?

Answer: The rewards of heaven and the punishments in hell are not the same for all who enter into either of these states, because each one's reward or punishment is in proportion to the amount of good or evil he has done in this world. But as heaven and hell are everlasting, each one will enjoy his reward or suffer his punishment forever.

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: {421} What words should we bear always in mind?

Answer: We should bear always in mind these words of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ: "What doth it profit a man if he gain the whole world and suffer the loss of his own soul, or what exchange shall a man give for his soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory of His Father with His angels; and then will He render to every man according to his works."

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Name some of the more essential religious truths we must know and believe.

Answer: Some of the more essential religious truths we must know and believe are:

LESSON TWENTY-NINTH.: ON THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD.


Question: Who made you?

Answer: God.


Question: What else did God make?

Answer: God made all things.


Question: Why did God make you and all things?

Answer: For his own glory.


Question: How can you glorify God?

Answer: By loving him and doing what he commands.


Question: Why ought you to glorify God?

Answer: Because he made me and takes care of me.


Question: Are there more gods than one?

Answer: There is only one God.


Question: In how many persons does this one God exist?

Answer: In three persons.


Question: What are they?

Answer: The Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost.


Question: What is God?

Answer: God is a Spirit, and has not a body like men.


Question: Where is God?

Answer: God is everywhere.


Question: Can you see God?

Answer: No; I cannot see God, but he always sees me.


Question: Does God know all things?

Answer: Yes; nothing can be hid from God.


Question: Can God do all things?

Answer: Yes; God can do all his holy will.


Question: Where do you learn how to love and obey God?

Answer: In the Bible alone.


Question: Who wrote the Bible?

Answer: Holy men who were taught by the Holy Ghost.


Question: Who were our first parents?

Answer: Adam and Eve.


Question: Of what were our first parents made?

Answer: God made the body of Adam out of the ground, and formed Eve from the body of Adam.


Question: What did God give Adam and Eve besides bodies?

Answer: He gave them souls that could never die.


Question: Have you a soul as well as a body?

Answer: Yes; I have a soul that can never die.


Question: How do you know that you have a soul?

Answer: Because I can think about God and the world to come.


Question: In what condition did God make Adam and Eve?

Answer: He made them holy and happy.


Question: What is a covenant?

Answer: An agreement between two or more persons.


Question: What covenant did God make with Adam?

Answer: The covenant of works.


Question: What was Adam bound to do by the covenant of works?

Answer: To obey God perfectly.


Question: What did God promise in the covenant of works?

Answer: To reward Adam with life if he obeyed him.


Question: What did God threaten in the covenant of works?

Answer: To punish Adam with death if he disobeyed.


Question: Did Adam keep the covenant of works?

Answer: No; he sinned against God.


Question: What is sin?

Answer: Sin is any want of conformity unto, or transgression of, the law of God.


Question: What is meant by want of conformity?

Answer: Not being or doing what God requires.


Question: What is meant by transgression?

Answer: Doing what God forbids.


Question: What was the sin of our first parents?

Answer: Eating the forbidden fruit.


Question: Who tempted them to this sin?

Answer: The devil tempted Eve, and she gave the fruit to Adam.


Question: What befell our first parents when they had sinned?

Answer: Instead of being holy and happy, they became sinful and miserable.


Question: Did Adam act for himself alone in the covenant of works?

Answer: No; he represented all his posterity.


Question: What effect had the sin of Adam on all mankind?

Answer: All mankind are born in a state of sin and misery.


Question: What is that sinful nature which we inherit from Adam called?

Answer: Original sin.


Question: What does every sin deserve?

Answer: The wrath and curse of God.


Question: Can any one go to heaven with this sinful nature?

Answer: No, our hearts must be changed before we can be fit for heaven.


Question: What is a change of heart called?

Answer: Regeneration.


Question: Who can change a sinner's heart?

Answer: The Holy Spirit alone.


Question: Can any one be saved through the covenant of works?

Answer: None can be saved through the covenant of works.


Question: Why can none be saved through the covenant of works?

Answer: Because all have broken it, and are condemned by it.


Question: With whom did God the Father make the covenant of grace?

Answer: With Christ, his eternal Son.


Question: Whom did Christ represent in the covenant of grace?

Answer: His elect people.


Question: What did Christ undertake in the covenant of grace?

Answer: To keep the whole law for his people, and to suffer the punishment due to their sins.


Question: Did our Lord Jesus Christ ever commit the least sin?

Answer: No; he was holy, harmless and undefiled.


Question: How could the Son of God suffer?

Answer: Christ, the Son of God, became man that he might obey and suffer in our nature.


Question: What is meant by the Atonement?

Answer: Christ's satisfying divine justice, by his sufferings and death, in the place of sinners.


Question: What did God the Father undertake in the covenant of grace?

Answer: To justify and sanctify those for whom Christ should die.


Question: What is justification?

Answer: It is God's forgiving sinners, and treating them as if they had never sinned.


Question: What is sanctification?

Answer: It is God's making sinners holy in heart and conduct.


Question: For whom did Christ obey and suffer?

Answer: For those whom the Father had given him.


Question: What kind of life did Christ live on earth?

Answer: A life of poverty and suffering.


Question: What kind of death did Christ die?

Answer: The painful and shameful death of the cross.


Question: Who will be saved?

Answer: Only those who repent of sin, believe in Christ and lead holy lives.


Question: What is it to repent?

Answer: To be sorry for sin, and to hate and forsake it because it is displeasing to God.


Question: What is it to believe or have faith in Christ?

Answer: To trust in Christ alone for salvation.


Question: Can you repent and believe in Christ by your own power?

Answer: No; I can do nothing good without the help of God's Holy Spirit.


Question: How can you get the help of the Holy Spirit?

Answer: God has told us that we must pray to him for the Holy Spirit.


Question: How long ago is it since Christ died?

Answer: More than eighteen hundred years.


Question: How were pious persons saved before the coming of Christ if

Answer: By believing in a Saviour to come.


Question: How did they show their faith?

Answer: By offering sacrifices on God's altar.


Question: What did these sacrifices represent?

Answer: Christ, the Lamb of God, who was to die for sinners.


Question: What offices has Christ?

Answer: Christ has three offices.


Question: What are they?

Answer: The offices of a prophet, of a priest, and of a king.


Question: How is Christ a prophet?

Answer: Because he teaches us the will of God.


Question: How is Christ a priest?

Answer: Because he died for our sins and pleads with God for us.


Question: How is Christ a king?

Answer: Because he rules over us and defends us.


Question: Why do you need Christ as a prophet?

Answer: Because I am ignorant.


Question: Why do you need Christ as a priest?

Answer: Because I am guilty.


Question: Why do you need Christ as a king?

Answer: Because I am weak and helpless.


Question: How many commandments did God give on Mount Sinai?

Answer: Ten commandments.


Question: What are the ten commandments sometimes called?

Answer: The Decalogue.


Question: What do the first four commandments teach?

Answer: Our duty to God.


Question: What do the last six commandments teach?

Answer: Our duty to our fellow-men.


Question: What is the sum of the ten commandments?

Answer: To love God with all my heart, and my neighbor as myself.


Question: Who is your neighbor?

Answer: All my fellow-men are my neighbors.


Question: Is God pleased with those who love and obey him?

Answer: Yes; he says, 'I love them that love me.'


Question: Is God displeased with those who do not love and obey him?

Answer: Yes; 'God is angry with the wicked every day.'


Question: What is the first commandment?

Answer: The first commandment is, Thou shalt have no other gods before me.


Question: What does the first commandment teach us?

Answer: To worship God alone.


Question: What is the second commandment?

Answer: The second commandment is, Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them; for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me and keep my commandments.


Question: What does the second commandment teach us?

Answer: To worship God in a proper manner, and to avoid idolatry.


Question: What is the third commandment?

Answer: The third commandment is, Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.


Question: What does the third commandment teach us?

Answer: To reverence God's name, word, and works.


Question: What is the fourth commandment?

Answer: The fourth commandment is, Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labor and do all thy work; but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested on the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it.


Question: What does the fourth commandment teach us?

Answer: To keep the Sabbath holy.


Question: What day of the week is the Christian Sabbath?

Answer: The first day of the week, called the Lord's day.


Question: Why is it called the Lord's day?

Answer: Because on that day Christ rose from the dead.


Question: How should the Sabbath be spent?

Answer: In prayer and praise, in hearing and reading God's word, and in doing good to our fellow-men.


Question: What is the fifth commandment?

Answer: The fifth commandment is, Honor thy father and thy mother, that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.


Question: What does the fifth commandment teach us?

Answer: To love and obey our parents and teachers.


Question: What is the sixth commandment?

Answer: The sixth commandment is, Thou shalt not kill.


Question: What does the sixth commandment teach us?

Answer: To avoid angry passions.


Question: What is the seventh commandment?

Answer: The seventh commandment is, Thou shalt not commit adultery.


Question: What does the seventh commandment teach us?

Answer: To be pure in heart, language, and conduct.


Question: What is the eighth commandment?

Answer: The eighth commandment is, Thou shalt not steal.


Question: What does the eighth commandment teach us?

Answer: To be honest and industrious.


Question: What is the ninth commandment?

Answer: The ninth commandment is, Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.


Question: What does the ninth commandment teach us?

Answer: To tell the truth.


Question: What is the tenth commandment?

Answer: The tenth commandment is, Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his man-servant, nor his maid-servant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbor's.


Question: What does the tenth commandment teach us?

Answer: To be content with our lot.


Question: Can any man keep these ten commandments perfectly?

Answer: No mere man, since the fall of Adam, ever did or can keep the ten commandments perfectly.


Question: Of what use are the ten commandments to us?

Answer: They teach us our duty, and show our need of a Saviour.


Question: What is prayer?

Answer: Prayer is asking God for things which he has promised to give.


Question: In whose name should we pray?

Answer: Only in the name of Christ.


Question: What has Christ given us to teach us how to pray?

Answer: The Lord's Prayer.


Question: Repeat the Lord's Prayer.

Answer: OUR FATHER WHICH ART IN HEAVEN, HALLOWED BE THY NAME. THY KINGDOM COME. THY WILL BE DONE IN EARTH, AS IT IS IN HEAVEN. GIVE US THIS DAY OUR DAILY BREAD; AND FORGIVE US OUR DEBTS, AS WE FORGIVE OUR DEBTORS; AND LEAD US NOT INTO TEMPTATION, BUT DELIVER US FROM EVIL. FOR THINE IS THE KINGDOM, AND THE POWER, AND THE GLORY, FOR EVER. AMEN.


Question: How many petitions are there in the Lord's Prayer?

Answer: Six.


Question: What is the first petition?

Answer: 'Hallowed be thy name.'


Question: What do we pray for in the first petition?

Answer: That God's name may be honored by us and all men.


Question: What is the second petition?

Answer: 'Thy kingdom come.'


Question: What do we pray for in the second petition?

Answer: That the gospel may be preached in all the world, and believed and obeyed by us and all men.


Question: What is the third petition?

Answer: 'Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.'


Question: What do we pray for in the third petition?

Answer: That men on earth may serve God as the angels do in heaven.


Question: What is the fourth petition?

Answer: 'Give us this day our daily bread.'


Question: What do we pray for in the fourth petition?

Answer: That God would give us all things needful for our bodies and souls.


Question: What is the fifth petition?

Answer: 'And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.'


Question: What do we pray for in the fifth petition?

Answer: That God would pardon our sins for Christ's sake, and enable us to forgive those who have injured us.


Question: What is the sixth petition?

Answer: 'And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.'


Question: What do we pray for in the sixth petition?

Answer: That God would keep us from sin.


Question: How many sacraments are there?

Answer: Two.


Question: What are they?

Answer: Baptism and the Lord's Supper.


Question: Who appointed these sacraments?

Answer: The Lord Jesus Christ.


Question: Why did Christ appoint these sacraments?

Answer: To distinguish his disciples from the world, and to comfort and strengthen them.


Question: What sign is used in baptism?

Answer: The washing with water.


Question: What does this signify?

Answer: That we are cleansed from sin by the blood of Christ.


Question: In whose name are we baptized?

Answer: In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.


Question: Who are to be baptized?

Answer: Believers and their children.


Question: Why should infants be baptized?

Answer: Because they have a sinful nature and need a Saviour.


Question: Does Christ care for little children?

Answer: Yes; for he says, SUFFER THE LITTLE CHILDREN TO COME UNTO ME, AND FORBID THEM NOT, FOR OF SUCH IS THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN.


Question: To what does your baptism bind you?

Answer: To be a true follower of Christ.


Question: What is the Lord's Supper?

Answer: The eating of bread and drinking of wine in remembrance of the sufferings and death of Christ.


Question: What does the bread represent?

Answer: The body of Christ, broken for our sins.


Question: What does the wine represent?

Answer: The blood of Christ, shed for our salvation.


Question: Who should partake of the Lord's Supper?

Answer: Only those who repent of their sins, believe in Christ for salvation, and love their fellow-men.


Question: Did Christ remain in the tomb after his crucifixion?

Answer: No; he rose from the tomb on the third day after his death.


Question: Where is Christ now?

Answer: In heaven, interceding for sinners.


Question: Will he come again?

Answer: Yes; at the last day Christ will come to judge the world.


Question: What becomes of men at death?

Answer: The body returns to dust, and the soul goes into the world of spirits.


Question: Will the bodies of the dead be raised to life again?

Answer: Yes; 'the trumpet shall sound and the dead shall be raised.'


Question: What will become of the wicked in the day of judgment?

Answer: They shall be cast into hell.


Question: What is hell?

Answer: A place of dreadful and endless torment.


Question: What will become of the righteous?

Answer: They shall be taken to heaven.


Question: What is heaven?

Answer: A glorious and happy place, where the righteous shall be for ever with the LORD.


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHAT is the chief end of man?

Answer: Man's chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.

Question: Seeing a chief supposes an inferior end; what is that inferior end for which man was made?

Answer: It is prudently, soberly, and mercifully, to govern, use, and dispose of other creatures in the earth, sea, and air, over which God gave man the dominion; Genesis 1:26. And God said let us make man in our own image, after our likeness: and let him have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the bird of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth. So Psalm 8:6. You made him to have dominion over the works of your hands; you have put all things under his feet.

Question: What then is to be thought of those men, who being wholly intent upon inferior things, forget and neglect their principal end?

Answer: They are dead while they live; 1 Timothy 5:6. But she that lives in pleasure, is dead while she lives: They have their portion in this life; Psalm 17:14. From men of the world, which have their portion in this life, and their end is destruction, Philippians 3:19. Whose end is destruction.

Question: How can a man glorify God, seeing he is perfectly glorious in himself?

Answer: Man cannot glorify God by adding any new degree of glory to him; Job 35:7. If you be righteous, what give you him, but by manifesting his glory with the lips? Psalm 50:23. Whoever offers praise, glorifies me; or with the life; Matthew 5:16. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in Heaven.

Question: Wherein consists the enjoyment of God?

Answer: It consists, first, in the facial vision of him in Heaven. SECONDLY, in full conformity to him; 1 John 3:2. But we know, that when he shall appear, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. THIRDLY, in that full satisfaction which results from both the former; Psalm 17:15. I shall be satisfied when I awake with your likeness.

Question: Can none enjoy him in Heaven, who do not glorify him on earth?

Answer: No adult person can scripturally expect happiness in Heaven without holiness on earth; Hebrews 12:14. And holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. Romans 8:30. Whom he justified, them he also glorified.

Question: How comes the glory and enjoyment of God our chief end?

Answer: He is our Master, and rightful Owner and Benefactor; we receive our being and preservation from him, of him, and through him, and therefore to him be all things, Romans 11:36.

Question: Do all men make God their chief end?

Answer: No, they do not; some make their sensual pleasure their chief end: Philippians 3:19. Whose God is their belly: and some the world, Colossians 3:5. Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth, and covetousness, which is idolatry.

Question: What are the signs of a man's making himself his chief end?

Answer: Those make themselves their chief end, who ascribe the glory of what they have, or do, to themselves, and not to God; Daniel 4:30. The king spoke, and said, Is not this great Babylon which I have built? Isaiah 10:18. For he says, by the strength of my hand have I done it; and by my wisdom, for I am prudent; therefore they sacrifice to their own net, and burn incense unto their drag, Habakkuk 1:16.

Question: Why are the glorifying and enjoying of God put together, as making up our chief end?

Answer: Because no man can glorify God, that takes him not for his God; and none takes him for his God, that takes him not for his supreme good; and both these being essentially included in this notion of the chief end, are therefore justly put together.

Question: What is the first truth inferred hence?

Answer: That God has dignified man above all other creatures on earth, in giving him a capacity of glorifying God here, and of enjoying him hereafter.

Question: What is the second truth inferred hence?

Answer: That the soul of man is not annihilated by death, but advanced by it; Philippians 1:21. To die is gain, verse 23. Having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ, which is far better.

Question: What is the third truth inferred hence?

Answer: That it is the duty and wisdom of every Christian to renounce, deny, and forsake all inferior interests and enjoyments, when they come in competition with the glory of God, and our enjoyment of him: Luke 14:33. So likewise whoever he be of you, that forsakes not all that he has, he cannot be my disciple.

Question: What is the fourth inference hence?

Answer: That we are to abhor and renounce all those doctrines and practices, that debase the glory of God, and exalt and magnify the creature. Of the Scriptures as our Rule


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHAT rule has God given to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him?

Answer: The word of God, which is contained in the Scriptures of the Old and new Testament, is the only rule to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him.

Question: How can the Scriptures be called the word of God, seeing the things contained there were spoken and written by men?

Answer: They are truly and properly called the word of God, because they came not by the will of man; but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit, 2 Peter 1:21.

Question: What are the principal arguments to persuade us that the scriptures are of Divine authority and inspiration?

Answer: Three things especially convince us: FIRST, The holiness of the doctrine therein contained. SECONDLY, The awful efficacy thereof on the soul. THIRDLY, The uncontrollable miracles by which they are sealed, put it beyond all rational doubt that they are the very words of God.

Question: What is the holiness of the scriptures; and how does that prove them to be God's word?.

Answer: The holiness of the scriptures does appear in two things: FIRST, In commanding and encouraging whatever is pure, and holy; Philippians 4:8. Whatever things are pure. SECONDLY, In forbidding all unholiness, under pain of damnation; 2 Corinthians 6:9. Know you not, that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God, etc. This shows that they came not from Satan, being cross to his design; nor from man, it being against his corrupt nature; and therefore from God only.

Question: What is their authority and efficacy on the soul? and how does that prove them divine?

Answer: Their authority, and efficacy on the soul, consists in three things: FIRST, In the power they have to search and discover the secrets of men; Hebrews 12:4. The word of God is quick and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow; and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. SECONDLY, In their converting efficacy, changing and renewing the soul; Psalm 19:7. The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul. THIRDLY, In their cheering and restoring efficacy, when the soul is cast down under any inward or outward trouble; Psalm 19:8. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart. No human power can do such things as these; John 17:17. Sanctify them through your truth; your word is truth.

Question: How do miracles confirm it?

Answer: Because all proper miracles are wrought only by the hand of God: John 3:2. And no man can do these miracles that you do, except God be with him: and so are his seal to whatever he affixes them, and it consists not with his truth, and holiness to set it to a forgery.

Question: What was the end of writing the word?

Answer: That the church to the end of the world might have a sure, known, standing-rule, to try and judge all things by, and not be left to the uncertainty of traditions; John 5:39. Search the scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life, and they are they which testify of me.

Question: Does not the authority of the scriptures depend on the church, fathers, and councils?

Answer: No, the scriptures are not built on the authority of the church, but the church on them; Ephesians 2:20. And are built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner-stone. And as for councils and fathers, the scriptures are not to be tried by them; but they by the scriptures; Isaiah 8:20. To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.

Question: What may be fairly inferred from this proposition, that the scriptures are the word of God?

Answer: Three things may be hence inferred. FIRST, The perfection of the scriptures, which being the only rule given by God, must therefore be perfect. SECONDLY, That it is the right of common people to read them; John 5:39. Search the scriptures, Acts 17:11. These were more noble than those of Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. THIRDLY, That we owe no obedience to the injunctions of men farther than they are sufficiently warranted by the written word; Matthew 15:9. But in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. Of Faith and Obedience


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHAT do the scriptures principally teach?

Answer: The scriptures principally teach what man is to believe concerning God, and what duty God requires of man.

Question: Why is faith conjoined with obedience, and put before it?

Answer: Because faith is the principle from whence all obedience flows; and no man can perform any duty aright in the estate of unbelief; Hebrews 11:6. But without faith it is impossible to please him; for he who comes to God, must believe that he is.

Question: Can there be no saving faith where the scriptures are not known and preached?

Answer: No; for the apostle says, Romans 10:14, 15. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? and how shall they preach except they be sent? And verse 17. So then, faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Question: Are not we bound to believe what learned men teach us, as points of faith, though the things they teach be not contained in the word of God?

Answer: No; if the things they teach be not contained expressly, or by necessary consequence in the word of God, we are not obliged to believe them as points of faith; Isaiah 8:20. To the law, and to the testimony, if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them: Galatians 1:8. Though we, or an angel from Heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. And Christ has charged us, Matthew 23:10. To call no man master, for one is your master, even Christ.

Question: Are there some things in scripture more excellent than others; because it is said, the scriptures principally teach matters of faith and duty?

Answer: Every part of scripture is alike pure; Proverbs 30:5. Every word of God is pure, and of equal authority, but not of equal weight; as several pieces of gold are alike pure, and of the same stamp, but not of equal value.

Question: What may be inferred hence for use?

Answer: FIRST, Hence it is our duty to examine what we hear, by the word; and not receive any doctrine because men confidently affirm it, but because the scriptures require it; Acts 17:11. These were more noble than those of Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether these things were so. SECONDLY, That the Christian religion is not notional, but practical; and that impractical faith saves no man; James 2:20. Faith without works is dead. God is a Spirit


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHAT is God?

Answer: God is a Spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable in his being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness, and truth.

Question: Can the nature of God be defined, so as men may express properly and strictly what God is?

Answer: No; Job 11:7. Can you by searching find out God? can you find out the Almighty unto perfection? We do then conceive most rightly of God, when we acknowledge him to be inconceivable; and therefore, one being asked the question, what God is? answered rightly; If I fully knew that, I should be a God myself; for God only knows his own essence.

Question: How many ways are there by which men may know and describe the nature of God, though still with imperfect knowledge?

Answer: There are two ways of knowing God in this life. FIRST, By way of affirmation; affirming that of God by way of eminence, which is excellent in the creature; as when we affirm him to be wise, good, merciful, etc. SECONDLY, By way of negation, when we remove from God, in our conceptions, all that is imperfect in the creature; so we say, God is immense, infinite, immutable; and in this sense we also call him a Spirit, that is he is not a gross corporeal substance.

Question: How many sorts of spirits are there? and of which sort is God?

Answer: There be two sorts of spirits, created and finite, as angels and the souls of men are. SECONDLY, Uncreated, and infinite; and such a Spirit God only is, infinitely above all other spirits.

Question: If God be a Spirit, in what sense are we to understand all those scriptures which speak of the eyes of the Lord, the ears and hands of God?

Answer: We are to understand them as expressions of God, in condescension to the weakness of our understanding; even as the glory of Heaven is expressed to us in scripture by a city, and the royal feast. These shadows are useful to us while we are in the body; but we shall know him in Heaven after a more perfect manner.

Question: What may be inferred from the spiritual nature of God?

Answer: Hence learn, that it is both sinful and dangerous to frame an image or picture of God. Who can make an image of his soul, which yet is not so perfect a spirit as God is? And as it is sinful to attempt it, so it is impossible to do it; Deuteronomy 4:15, 16. Take you therefore good heed unto yourselves; for you saw no manner of similitude on the day that the Lord spoke to you in Horeb, out of the midst of the fire; lest you corrupt yourselves, and make you a graven image, the similitude of any figure, etc.

Question: What else may be inferred from thence?

Answer: That our souls are the most noble and excellent part of us, which most resembles God; and therefore our chief regard and care should be for them, whatever becomes of the vile body; Matthew 16:26. For what is a man profited, if he gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

Question: What further truth may be inferred hence?

Answer: That men should beware of spiritual sins, as well as of gross and outward sins; for there is a faithfulness of the spirit, as well as of the flesh; 2 Corinthians 7:1. Let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of flesh and spirit; and as God sees them, so he greatly abhors them, as sins that defile the noblest part of man, on which he stamped his own image.

Question: What also may be inferred from hence?

Answer: Hence we learn, that spiritual worship is most agreeable to his nature and will; and the more spiritual it is, the more acceptable it will be to him; John 4:24. God is a Spirit, and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. Externals in worship are of little regard with God; as places, habits, gestures, etc. Apply this, FIRST, To superstitious men, Isaiah 66:1, 2, 3. SECONDLY, To children, that say a prayer, but mind not to whom, nor what they say, Of God's Infinity


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: ARE there more gods than one?

Answer: There is but one only, the living and true God.

Question: How does it appear that there is but one God?

Answer: It is evident from scripture there is but one God; Deuteronomy 6:4. Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God is one Lord. Jeremiah 10:10 but the Lord is the true God; he is the living God, and an everlasting King: and as scripture reveals no more, so reason will allow no more.

Question: Why will reason allow no more but one God?

Answer: Because God is the first being; Revelation 1:11. Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last; and there can be but one first being, and God is the most perfect and excellent being; Psalm 71:19. Your righteousness, also, O God, is very high, who has done great things: O God, who is like unto you? And there can be but one most perfect and excellent being.

Question: But does not the scriptures say, in 1 Corinthians 8:5 that there are gods many, and lords many?

Answer: Yes; there are many in title, and many in opinion, but one only in truth; Jeremiah 10:10. But the Lord is the true God, he is the living God, and an everlasting King.

Question: why is he called the true God?

Answer: To distinguish him from the idols and false gods of the heathens; 1 Thessalonians 1:9. How you turned to God from idols, to serve the living and true God. Acts 14:15. We preach unto you, that you should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made Heaven and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein.

Question: Why is he called the living God?

Answer: Because all life, natural, spiritual, and eternal, is in him, and from him only. FIRST, Natural life; Acts 17:28. For in him we live, and move, and have our being. SECONDLY, Spiritual life; Ephesians 2:1. You has he quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins. THIRDLY, Eternal life in glory; Colossians 3:4. When Christ who is our life, shall appear, then shall you also appear with him in glory.

Question: What is the first instruction from hence?

Answer: If but one God, then all his children should be of one heart, having one and the same Father; Ephesians 4:5, 6. One Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

Question: What is the second inference from hence?

Answer: That it is idolatry to perform worship to any other but God only; Psalm 86:9, 10. All nations whom you have made, shall come and worship before you, O Lord, and shall glorify your name, for you are great, and do wondrous things, you are God alone.

Question: What is the third inference from it?

Answer: That our supreme love is due to God only, and it is very sinful to place it in any other; Deuteronomy 6:4, 5. Hear, O Israel. The Lord our God is one Lord; and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might.

Question: What is the fourth inference from God's unity?

Answer: That God only must have the reliance and dependence of our souls; Jeremiah 17:5, 7. Thus says the Lord, cursed be the man that trusts in man, that makes flesh his arm, and whose heart departs from the Lord. Blessed is the man that trusts in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is.

Question: What is the last inference from it?

Answer: That we have great cause to be thankful for the gospel, which discovers the only true God to us; and that we are not as the heathens, worshiping many and false gods; 1 Corinthians 8:5, 6. For though there be that are called gods, whether in Heaven or in earth, as there be gods many, and lords many; but to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord, Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. Of three Persons in the Godhead


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: HOW many persons are there in the godhead?

Answer: There are three persons in the godhead, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and these three are one God, the same in substance, equal in power and glory.

Question: What mean you by the word, godhead?

Answer: It is the nature, essence, or being of God, as the apostle speaks, Acts 17:29. Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by are, and man's device.

Question: what is a person in the godhead?

Answer: It is the godhead distinguished by personal properties; each person having his distinct personal properties; Hebrews 1:3. Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, upholding all things by the word of his power.

Question: How does it appear there are three persons, and no more?

Answer: FIRST, From Christ's baptism; Matthew 3:16, 17. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up immediately out of the water, and lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending, like a dove, and lighting upon him; and lo, a voice from Heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased.

Question: How else in the second place, does it appear?

Answer: From the institution of our baptism; Matthew 28:19 Go you, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

Question: What is the third proof from scripture?

Answer: From the apostolical blessing; 2 Corinthians 13:14. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the holy Spirit, be with you all, Amen: Where the three distinct blessings are wished from the three divine persons in the godhead, grace from Christ, love from the Father, and communion with the Spirit.

Question: What farther evidence is there of it in scripture?

Answer: From plain positive assertions of the scripture, asserting, FIRST, A trinity of persons SECONDLY, A unity of essence? 1 John 5:7. For there are three that bear record in Heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit, and these three are one.

Question: What is the first instruction from the trinity?

Answer: That the doctrine of the gospel concerning Christ, is fully confirmed and ratified by three witnesses from Heaven, who are above all exceptions; 1 John 5:7. For there are three that bear record in Heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit.

Question: What is the second instruction from the trinity?

Answer: Hence we learn the true order and manner of worshiping God, in the Son; John 16:23. Whatever you shall ask the Father in my name, he shall give it you. And by the Spirit; Ephesians 6:18 Praying always, with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit.

Question: What is the third instruction from the trinity?

Answer: That the covenant of grace conveys a rich portion to believers in making over all three persons to them; Jeremiah 31:33. But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord; I will put my law into their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

Question: What is the fourth instruction from the trinity?

Answer: That as it is the duty of all the saints to give distinct glory to the three persons in the Godhead; so it will be a special part of their blessedness in Heaven, to contemplate the distinct benefits received from them all; Revelation 1:5. And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth; unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood. Of God's decrees


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHAT are the decrees of God?

Answer: The decrees of God are his eternal purpose, according to the council of his will, whereby for his own glory he has fore-ordained whatever comes to pass.

Question: What things are decreed of God?

Answer: All things whatever come to pass, even the smallest; Ephesians 1:11. In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things after the counsel of his own will.

Question: What is the end of God's decrees?

Answer: The glory of his own name; Ephesians 1:11, 12. Who works all things according to the counsel of his own will, that we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.

Question: But there are some evil things done in the world; Do they fall under God's decree?

Answer: Though God does neither approve them, nor necessitate men to commit them, yet he does permit and allow them to be done, and will turn them to his own glory; Acts 4:27, 28. For of a truth, against your holy child Jesus, whom you have anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel are gathered together, for to do whatever your hand and your counsel determined before to be done.

Question: Who are the objects of God's special decrees?

Answer: Angels and men are the objects of God's special decrees; 1 Timothy 5:21. I charge you before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that you observe these things, etc. Romans 8:33. Who shall lay anything to the charge of God's elect?

Question: What is the first property of God's decrees?

Answer: That they are most wise acts of God, laid in the depth of wisdom and counsel; Romans 11:33. O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways are past finding out!

Question: What is the second property of God's decrees?

Answer: The decrees of God are most free, all flowing from the mere pleasure of his will; Romans 9:18. Therefore has he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardens.

Question: What is the third property of God's decrees?

Answer: They are most firm and stable; 2 Timothy 2:19. Nevertheless, the foundation of God stands sure; having this seal, The Lord knows them that are his; Zechariah 6:1.

Question: What is the fourth property of God's decrees?

Answer: They are eternal, and before all time; Acts 15:18. Known unto God are all his works, from the beginning of the world.

Question: What is the fifth property of God's decrees?

Answer: They are most pure, and altogether unspotted of sin; 1 John 1:5. This is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, That God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.

Question: What is the first instruction from God's decrees?

Answer: That we ought to ascribe nothing to chance, but to the appointment or providence of God; Proverbs 16:33. The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord.

Question: What is the second instruction from God's decrees?

Answer: That God's hand is to be acknowledged in the greatest afflictions that befall us; 2 Samuel 16:11. And David said to Abishai, and to all his servants, behold my son, which came forth of my affections, seeks my life; how much more now may this Benjamite do it? Let him alone, and let him curse, for the Lord has bidden him.

Question: What is the last instruction from God's decrees?

Answer: That we ought to be thankful to God for all the good, and patient under all the evils that befall us; Job 2:10. Shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil?


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: HOW does God execute his decrees?

Answer: God executes his decrees in the works of creation and providence.


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHAT are the works of creation?

Answer: The work of creation is, God's making all things of nothing, by the word of his power, in the space of six days, and all very good.

Question: What is it to create?

Answer: To create, is to give a being to that which had no being; or to bring something out of nothing; Hebrews 11:3. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God; so that things which are seen were not made of things that do appear.

Question: How did God create the world?

Answer: By his infinite power, executed in his word of command; Psalm 33:6, 9. By the word of the Lord were the heavens made, and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth; for he spoke, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.

Question: What attributes of God shine forth in the creation?

Answer: The wisdom of God shines forth gloriously, not only in their formation, but dependence one upon another; Psalm 104:24. O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom have you made them all. The earth is full of your riches.

Question: What may we learn from the creation?

Answer: That God perfectly knows all that is in the creature, be it never so secret; Psalm 94:8, 9. Understand, O you brutish among the people; and you fools, when will you be wise? He who planted the ear, shall he not hear: He who formed the eye, shall he not see?

Question: What is the second instruction from the creation?

Answer: That God is the rightful owner of us all, and may do what he will with us? Romans 9:20. Nay but, O man, who are you that replies against God! shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, why have you made me thus? Has not the potter power over the clay of the same lump to make one vessel to honor, and another to dishonor?

Question: What is the third instruction from the creation?

Answer: That God only is the proper object of worship; Jeremiah 10:11. Thus shall he say unto them, The gods that have not made the heavens, and the earth, even they shall perish from the earth, and from under these heavens.

Question: What is the fourth instruction from hence?

Answer: That Christians should not fear the power of creatures, since they derive their being and power from God; Isaiah 54:16, 17. Behold, I have created the smith that blows the coals in the fire, that brings forth an instrument for his work; and I have created the waster to destroy; no weapon that is formed against you shall prosper.

Question: What is the fifth instruction from hence?

Answer: That Atheism is a sin against natural light and reason; Romans 1:20. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and godhead; so that they are without excuse.

Question: What is the sixth instruction from hence?

Answer: That God's glory is the end of all being; Colossians 1:16. For by him were all things created, that are in Heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him and for him.

Question: What is the seventh instruction from hence?

Answer: That there is an unnatural rebellion in sin, smiting at him that made and preserves our being; Isaiah 1:6. I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me.

Question: What is the eighth instruction from hence?

Answer: That God can in a moment revive and save the church when at the lowest ebb; Isaiah 65:18. Behold, I create Jerusalem a rejoicing, and her people a joy.

Question: What is the last instruction from hence?

Answer: That it is easy with God to revive a dejected soul; Isaiah 57:19. I create the fruit of the lips: Peace, peace to him that is far off, and to him that is near, says the Lord; and I will heal him, Of Man's Creation