An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: What is forbidden in the tenth commandment?

Answer: The tenth commandment forbids all discontentment with our own estate, envying or grieving at the good of our neighbor, and all inordinate motions and affections to anything that is his.

Question: What is the principal scope and aim of the tenth commandment?

Answer: It is to prevent all occasions of transgressing the other precepts of the second table, by restraining this sin of covetousness in the heart; Psalm 119:35, 36. Make me to go in the path of your commandments, for therein do I delight. Incline my heart unto your testimonies, and not to covetousness.

Question: What does this tenth command require of us in reference to ourselves?

Answer: It requires of us perfect contentment and satisfaction with that estate and condition wherein God has placed us in the world; Hebrews 13:5. Let your conversation be without covetousness, and be content with such things as you have, etc. Reckoning it to be good for us to be in that state we are, though never so low or afflicted; Psalm 119:67. Before I was afflicted, I went astray; but now have I kept your word. And verse 71. It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I might learn your statutes.

Question: Is contentment with God's appointments attainable in this life?

Answer: Some Christians have attained to a very great measure, and eminent degree of contentment in the midst of changeable and afflictive providences; Philippians 4:11.-I have learned in whatever state I am, therewith to be content. Psalm 16:5, 6. The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance, and of my cup: you maintain my lot. The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places: yes, I have a goodly heritage.

Question: Is there no danger of the sin of discontentment in a full and prosperous condition?

Answer: Fullness of the world secures no man from the sin of discontentment with his own, or covering that which is another's; because the desires enlarge as the estate does; Psalm 62:10.-If riches increase, set not your heart upon them. An instance whereof we have in Ahab, 1 Kings 21:4. And Ahab came into his house heavy and displeased, because of the word which Naboth the Jezreelite had spoken to him: for he had said, I will not give you the inheritance of my fathers; and he laid him down upon his bed, and turned away his face, and would eat no bread.

Question: Whence does discontent with our condition spring?

Answer: It springs partly from our ignorance of God's wisdom and love in ordering all for our good; Romans 8:28. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, etc. Partly from our inconsiderateness of the vanity of the creatures; 1 Timothy 6:7, 8. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, let us be therewith content. And partly from our unbelief; Matthew 6:31, 32. Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? Or what shall we drink? Or wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek;) for your heavenly Father knows that you have need of all these things.

Question: Is contentment with our own estate all that this commandment requires?

Answer: No; it requires a charitable frame of spirit towards our neighbors also; Romans 12:10, 15. Be kindly affectionate one to another, with brotherly love, in honor preferring one another. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.

Question: What is the first sin forbidden in this commandment?

Answer: It directly and especially forbids all sinful and inordinate desires and motions after other men's enjoyments; Colossians 3:5. Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth, fornication, impurity, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry.

Question: What is the second sin forbidden in this commandment?

Answer: It forbids all cruelty and incompassionateness to others in necessity, and keeping back from them that relief which is made theirs by God's command; Proverbs 11:24. There is that with-holds more than is meet, but it tends to poverty. Leviticus 19:9, 10. And when you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not wholly reap the corners of your field, neither shall you gather the gleanings of your harvest. And you shall not glean your vineyard, neither shall you gather every grape of your vineyard: you shall leave them for the poor and the stranger: I am the Lord your God.

Question: What is the third sin forbidden in this commandment?

Answer: It forbids the detaining of the hirelings wages, when it is due; Habakkuk 2:9, 10, 11. Woe to him that covets an evil covetousness to his house, that he may set his nest on high, that he may be delivered from the power of evil. You have consulted shame to your house, by cutting off many people, and have sinned against your soul. For the stone shall cry out of the wall, and the beam out of the timber shall answer it.

Question: What is the fourth sin forbidden in this commandment?

Answer: It forbids all inward grudgings at, and envyings of the enjoyments of others, whether they be inward goods of the mind, or outward, belonging to the body; 1 Corinthians 13:4. Charity envies not, etc.

Question: What is the mischief of covetousness?

Answer: It distracts your heart in duties; Ezekiel 33:31. And they come unto you as the people comes, and they sit before you as my people, and they hear your words, but they will not do them; for with their mouths they show much love, but their heart goes after their covetousness. Provokes the wrath of God; Isaiah 57:17. For the iniquity of his covetousness was I wroth, and smote him, etc. And where it reigns it becomes idolatry; Colossians 3:5. And covetousness, which is idolatry.

Question: What is the first inference from hence?

Answer: It calls all men to humiliation for the inordinancy of their affections towards the world, their discontent with their own and envyings of others conditions.

Question: What is the second inference from hence?

Answer: As ever we would keep clear from this sin, let us make God our portion; Psalm 16:5, 6. The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance, and of my cup; you maintain my lot. And labor to get the soul-satisfying comforts of his Spirit; John 4:14. But whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him, shall never thirst, etc. 2 Corinthians 6:10. As having nothing, and yet possessing all things.

Question: What is the last inference from hence?

Answer: If God has given us a sufficiency of the things of this life for our necessity, let us be satisfied, though we want other things for our delight; 1 Timothy 6:8. And having food and clothing, let us be therewith content. And relieve ourselves by an expectation of those better things laid up in Heaven for us, if we be believers; James 2:5. Has not God chosen the poor of this world, rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to them that love him. Of keeping the Law


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: IS any man able perfectly to keep the commandments of God?

Answer: No mere man since the fail is able in this life perfectly to keep the commandments of God, but does daily break them in thought, word, and deed.

Question: Wherein does the perfect keeping of God's law consist?

Answer: It consists in the perfect and constant conformity of the internal arid external actions of heart and life, to every command of God; Galatians 3:10. Cursed is every one that continues not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. Matthew 22:37, 38, 39. Jesus said unto them, You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, You shall love your neighbor as yourself.

Question: But if a man commit no external act against the law, may he not be said perfectly to keep it, although in mind or thought he should trangress?

Answer: No; for an inward motion of sin in the hearty that never breaks forth into act, is a violation of the law, and brings the soul under the curse of it; Matthew 5:21, 22. You have heard that it was said by them of old time, You shall not kill: And whoever shall kill, shall be in danger of the judgment. But I say unto you, that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause, shall be in danger of the judgment, etc. And verse 27, 28. You have heard that it was said by them of old time, You shall not commit adultery. But I say unto you, that whoever looks upon a woman to lust after her, has committed adultery with her already in his heart.

Question: May not a man keep the law if he keep some of its commands, though he cannot keep every one of them punctually?

Answer: No, he cannot; for the transgression of any one command in the least degree, is a breach of all, and brings the curse of the whole upon a man's soul; James 2:10. For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.

Question: Was the law never kept by any since it was made?

Answer: Yes, Adam in his innocent state kept it; for he was made upright; Ecclesiastes 7:29. God made man upright, etc. And Christ perfectly kept it; Matthew 5:17. Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.

Question: What is the first reason why no mere man in this life can fulfill and keep the law of God perfectly?

Answer: It is because the law of God is perfect, and the best of men in this life are imperfect; Psalm 19:7. The law of the Lord is perfect, etc. Ecclesiastes 7:20. For there is not a just man upon earth, that does good, and sins not.

Question: But may not men perfectly keep it when regenerate, and born of God?

Answer: No; because even in the regenerate there is a law of sin, which wars against the law of God; Galatians 5:17. For the flesh lusts against the spirit, and the spirit against the flesh, etc. Romans 7:22, 23. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man. But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, etc. And though they are said not to sin, 1 John 3:9. Whoever is born of God, does not commit sin, etc. That is not to be taken absolutely, but comparatively, as they once did, and others still do.

Question: But did not Christ command the young man to keep the law?

Answer: It is true that Christ did put the young man upon this task; Matthew 19:17. If you will enter into life, keep the commandments. But it was not on a supposition that he was able to do it; but to convince him of the impossibility of justification that way.

Question: But does not the apostle say, that the righteousness of the law is fulfilled in believers?

Answer: It is true that the apostle does say, Romans 8:4 but the meaning is not, that we fulfill it in our own persons, by our complete obedience to it; but it is fulfilled in us, by our union with Christ, who perfectly kept it; and the righteousness of the law, which is in Christ, becomes ours, by God's imputation of it to us; Romans 4:23, 24. Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him; but for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead,

Question: What is the first inference from hence?

Answer: That justification by our own works is utterly impossible to the holiest of men; Galatians 2:16. For by the works of the law no flesh can be justified; Psalm 103:3. If you, Lord, should mark iniquities; O Lord, who shall stand?

Question: What is the second inference from hence?

Answer: Hence we learn what an infinite mercy it is, that God sent Jesus Christ made under the law; Galatians 4:4, 5. But when the fullness of time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, etc. To do that for us we could never do for ourselves; Romans 8:3, 4. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin condemned sin in the flesh; that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us; who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

Question: What is the third inference from hence?

Answer: That the dreadful curse must needs lie on all unbelievers that are out of Christ; John 3:36. He who believes not the Son, shall not see life; but the wrath of God abides on him. And seek their justification by the deeds of the law; Galatians 3:10. For as many as are of the works of the law, are under the curse, etc.

Question: What is the fourth inference from hence?

Answer: That a deluge of sin and misery brake in upon the whole world by the fall of Adam, and all his posterity being by him plunged under both; Romans 5:12. Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin: And so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.

Question: What is the fifth inference from hence?

Answer: That the Popish doctrines of merits, and works of supererogation, are false and groundless doctrines, springing out of the ignorance and pride of man's heart.

Question: What is the last inference from hence?

Answer: That all God's people should sigh under their unhappy necessity of sinning; Romans 7:24. O wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from the body of this death! And long to be with Christ in the perfect state; Hebrews 12:23. And to the spirits of just men made perfect. Of the inequality of Sin


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: ARE all transgressions of the law equally heinous?

Answer: Some sins in themselves, and by reason of several aggravations, are more heinous in the sight of God than others.

Question: Whence arises the first difference of sin?

Answer: The first difference between one sin and another, arises from the immediate object, against which the sin is committed; on this account, sins immediately committed against God, are more heinous than sins immediately committed against man; 1 Samuel 2:25. If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him: But if a man sin against the Lord, who shall entreat for him? And all sins of the first table are greater than those of the second: yet there are crying sins against the second.

Question: What is the first sin noted for an heinous sin?

Answer: The sin of murder is in scripture set down for an heinous and crying sin in its own nature; Genesis 4:10. The voice of your brother's blood cries unto me from the earth.

Question: What other sin is noted for a crying sin?

Answer: The sin of oppression is noted in scripture for a crying sin; Habakkuk 2:11. For the stone shall cry out of the wall, and the beam out of the timber shall answer it. Especially the oppression of the widow and fatherless; Exodus 22:22, 23. You shall not afflict any widow, or fatherless child. If you afflict them in any wise, and they cry at all unto me, I will surely hear their cry.

Question: What is reckoned in scripture an heinous sin against the first table.

Answer: The sin of atheism, or denying the being of a God, is a sin of the first magnitude; Job 31:28. This also were an iniquity to be punished by the judge; for I should have denied the God that is above. This was the sin of Pharaoh; Exodus 5:2. And Pharaoh said, Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go? I know not the Lord, neither will I let Israel go.

Question: What other sin is heinous in God's account?

Answer: The sin of idolatry is a most heinous sin, and goes nearer to the heart of God than other sins do; Ezekiel 6:9. And they that escape of you, shall remember me among the nations where they shall be carried captives; because I am broken with their whorish heart, which has departed from me, and with their eyes, which go a whoring after their idols; and they shall loath themselves, for the evils which they have committed in all their abominations. Jeremiah 44:4. O do not this abominable thing that I hate.

Question: What is the most heinous of all the sins in the world?

Answer: The sin against the Holy Spirit is the most heinous of all other sins, and shall never be forgiven by him; Matthew 12:31. All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men; but the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit shall not be forgiven unto men.

Question: From whence does this scripture aggravate sin?

Answer: The Spirit of God in scripture aggravates and estimates sin, from the degree of light and knowledge men sin against; Luke 12:47. And that servant which knew his Lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many-stripes. John 15:22. If I had not come, and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: But now they have no cloak for their sin.

Question: What is the second thing that aggravates sin?

Answer: The more mercies any man sins against, the greater is his sin; Romans 2:4. Or Despise you the riches of his goodness, and forbearance, and long suffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? And especially when it is against spiritual mercies, and means of salvation; Hebrews 2:3. How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation? etc.

Question: Are heinous and crying sins capable of forgiveness?

Answer: Yes; great and heinous sins are capable of forgiveness, upon true repentance; Isaiah 1:18. Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.

Question: From what fountain does the pardon of all sins, both great and small, flow?

Answer: They all flow from the free grace of God; Luke 7:41, 42. And when they had nothing to pay, he forgave them both. And through the meritorious, satisfying blood of Christ; Ephesians 1:7. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.

Question: What is the first inference hence?

Answer: Though some sins are more heinous than others, yet no sinner should absolutely despair of mercy; for the vilest have been pardoned; 1 Corinthians 6:11. And such were some of you: But you are washed, but you are sanctified, but you are jutsified, etc.

Question: What is the second inference hence?

Answer: That there are different degrees of torments in Hell, proportioned to the different degrees of sins on earth. Matthew 11:21, 22. Woe unto you, Chorazin, Woe unto you, Bethsaida: For if the mighty works which were done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. But I say unto you, it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon, at the day of judgment, than for you.

Question: What is the third inference hence?

Answer: That great sinners, when pardoned and received to mercy, should excel all others in love to Christ; Luke 7:42, 43. Which of them will love him most? Simon answered and said, I suppose that he to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, You have rightly judged.

Question: What is the last inference hence?

Answer: Let no man neglect Christ, because his sins are not so heinous as others; because the least sin without Christ is damning; Romans 6:23. For the wages of sin is death, etc. And greater sinners are often called when lesser are not; Matthew 21:31, 32. The publicans and harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. Of the Demerit of Sin


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHAT does every sin deserve?

Answer: Every sin deserves God's wrath and curse, both in this life and in that which is to come.

Question: Wherein does the evil of sin principally consist?

Answer: It consists principally in the offence it gives, and the wrong it does to God; Psalm 51:4. Against you, you only have I sinned, and done this evil in your sight.

Question: What is the first offence and wrong sin does to God?

Answer: It consists in its enmity to God; Romans 8:7. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God, etc. Expressed in scripture by walking contrary to him; Leviticus 26:40. They have also walked contrary to me. Fighting against God; Acts 5:39. Lest haply you be even found to fight against God. And resisting his Spirit; Acts 7:51. You do always resist the Holy Spirit.

Question: Wherein is its enmity to God further discovered in scripture?

Answer: It is discovered under the names and notions of hatred of God; Romans 1:30. Backbiters, haters of God, etc. Rebellion against God; 1 Samuel 15:23. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, etc. And despising the commandment of God; 2 Samuel 12:9. Wherefore have you despised the commandment of the Lord?

Question: What are the attributes of God that sin wrongs?

Answer: It wrongs all his attributes; for it slights his sovereignty; Exodus 5:2. And Pharaoh said, Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice, to let Israel go? Resists his power; 1 Corinthians 10:22. Are we stronger than he? Despises his goodness; Romans 2:4. Or Despise you the riches of his goodness, etc. Taxeth his justice; Ezekiel 18:25. Yet you say, the way of the Lord is not equal, etc. And clouds his holiness; James 2:7. Do not they blaspheme that worthy name, by which you are called?

Question: What does sin deserve in the course of justice from God?

Answer: It deserves all temporal and eternal effects of God's wrath, on the souls and bodies of sinners, all which in scripture go under the name of death; Romans 6:23. For the wages of sin is death, etc.

Question: Can these sufferings satisfy God for all this wrong?

Answer: No, they cannot; and therefore they must, and shall be eternal on the damned; Matthew 5:26. Truly, I say unto you, you shall by no means come out thence, until you have paid the uttermost farthing. Mark 9:44. Where their worm dies not, and the fire is not quenched.

Question: Shall all sinners bear the desert of their sins?

Answer: No, all that are out of Christ shall; but Christ has freed believers from it; John 3:18. He who believes on him is not condemned, etc.

Question: But is it not hard, that sinners should suffer eternally for the sins of a few years?

Answer: No, it is not; for the evil of sin is not to be measured by the time in which, but by the object against which it is committed; Psalm 51:4, 5. Against you, you only have I sinned, and done this evil in your sight, etc.

Question: What learn we from hence?

Answer: Hence in the first place we learn the impossibility of satisfying God's justice for the least sin that ever we committed; Job 7:20. I have sinned, what shall I do unto you? etc. Psalm 130:3. If you, Lord, should mark iniquity, O Lord, who shall stand?

Question: What is the second instruction hence?

Answer: Hence we see the necessity of a Mediator between God and us; Psalm 40:6, 7. Sacrifice and offering you did not desire, etc. Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me.

Question: What is the third instruction hence?

Answer: That the greatest suffering is rather to be chosen than the least sin; Hebrews 11:25. Chusing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season.

Question: What is the fourth instruction hence?

Answer: It teaches us what an invaluable mercy the full, free, and final remission of sin is; Psalm 32:1. Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered, etc.

Question: What is the fifth instruction hence?

Answer: It vindicates God in his severest strokes on sinners; Hosea 6. Therefore have I hewed them by the prophets: I have slain them by the words of my mouth, and your judgments are as the light that goes forth.

Question: What is the last instruction?

Answer: Hence we learn the infinite nature of Christ's sufferings; Romans 8:32. He who spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Of what God requires of us


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHAT does God require of us, that we may escape his wrath and curse due to us for sin?

Answer: To escape the wrath and curse of God due to us for sin, God requires of us faith in Jesus Christ, repentance unto life, with the diligent use of all the outward means, whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption.

Question: What are the things required of us to escape God's wrath and curse due to us for sin?

Answer: The things required of us are, (1.) Faith in Jesus Christ; Acts 16:31. And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you shall be saved, and your house. (2.) Repentance for sin; Acts 3:19. Repent you, therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, etc. (3.) Diligent striving in the use of all God's appointed means; Luke 13:24. Strive to enter in at the strait gate: For many, I say unto you, shall seek to enter in, and shall not be able.

Question: Are these things in man's power to perform, that God requires of him?

Answer: Though they are our duties, yet we have no power in ourselves by nature to perform them, but the power is of God; 2 Corinthians 3:5. Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think anything as of ourselves, but our sufficiency is of God.

Question: But if men be in Christ, and justified from eternity, what need of this?

Answer: Though God from eternity decreed, and Christ long since purchased the salvation of the elect; yet have they no union with Christ until they believe; Ephesians 3:17. That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith, that you being rooted and grounded in love. Nor remission of sin; Acts 3:19. That your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord. But lie under wrath as others do; Ephesians 2:3, 12. And were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. Verse 12. That at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the common-wealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world.

Question: If it be God that can only work these graces in us, to what purpose is our striving?

Answer: God's working does not exclude man's striving, but more excites and obliges us to it; Philippians 2:12, 13. Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling: For it is God which works in you, both to will and to do, of his own good pleasure.

Question: To what purpose is it to strive in the use of means, except we knew we were elected?

Answer: The knowledge of our election is not antecedent to our diligence, but our diligence is required antecedently to that knowledge; 1 Peter 1:10. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure, etc.

Question: Is it not legal to put natural men upon striving in the use of means?

Answer: No, it is not; for Christ himself enjoins it? Luke 13:24. Strive to enter in at the strait gate, etc. And so did the apostles after him; Acts 8:22. Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you.

Question: Is there no escaping of God's wrath and curse without faith and repentance?

Answer: No, it is impossible to escape them; John 3:18. He who believes not, is condemned already. Hebrews 2:3. How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation?

Question: But if a man reform his life, and live soberly and justly for time to come, may he not that way escape God's wrath and curse?

Answer: No; sobriety and reformation are duties, but it is faith and regeneration that puts men into Christ, and out of danger; Matthew 5:20. Except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the Scribes and Pharisees, you shall in no case enter into the kingdom of Heaven. Titus 3:5. Not by works of righteousness, which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Spirit.

Question: Do all believing and penitent sinners escape God's wrath and curse?

Answer: Yes, they do, and shall forever escape it; Romans 8:1. There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, etc. Colossians 1:12, 13. Giving thanks unto God the Father, which has made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light; who has delivered us from the power of darkness, and has translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son. John 5:24. He who hears my word, and believes on him that sent me, has everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

Question: What is the first inference hence?

Answer: Hence it appears how false and dangerous the Antinomian doctrine is, which teaches that our sins are pardoned before they are committed, or we either believe or repent; contrary to Acts 26:18. To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness unto light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sin, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. James 5:20. He which converts the sinner from the error of his way, shall save a soul from death, etc. Acts 10:43. To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whoever believes in him shall receive remission of sins.

Question: What is the second inference hence?

Answer: Hence it follows, that it is dangerous on the one side not to strive in all the ways of duty for Christ and salvation, contrary to Luke 13:24. Strive to enter in at the strait gate; for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. And as dangerous, on the other side, to rest in, and depend on our own works and duties; Philippians 3:9. And be found in him, not having my own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith.

Question: What is the third inference hence?

Answer: Hence we learn the miserable state of all unbelievers, and impenitent persons; the curse and wrath of God lies upon them; Galatians 3:10. For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse, etc. And their warrant for Hell is already made; John 3:18. He who believes not, is condemned already.

Question: What is the fourth inference hence?

Answer: Hence we learn the happy state into which faith and repentance bring the souls of men; Acts 13:38, 39. By him all that believe are justified from all things, from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses. Of saving Faith


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHAT is faith in Jesus Christ?

Answer: Faith in Jesus Christ is a saving grace, whereby we receive and rest upon him alone for salvation, as he is offered to us in the gospel.

Question: What is the root or cause of faith?

Answer: Not the power of man's will; Ephesians 2:8. For by grace are you saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God; But the Spirit of God. Galatians 5:22. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith. John 1:12, 13. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name; which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

Question: How does the Spirit of God ordinarily produce faith?

Answer: By the preaching of the word he ordinarily begets it; Romans 10:17. Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God; though sometimes he does it immediately.

Question: Who are the proper subjects of faith?

Answer: Convinced and sensible sinners are the proper subjects of faith; John 16:8, 9, 10. And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment. Of sin, because they believe not on me: of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and you see me no more: of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.

Question: What is the seat or habitation of faith?

Answer: Not only the head or understanding, but principally the heart and will; Romans 10:10. With the heart man believes unto righteousness, etc. Acts 8:37. And Philip said, If you Believe with all your heart, you may.

Question: But is not the assent of the understanding true faith?

Answer: The mere assent of the understanding to the truths of scripture, is not such a faith as will save the soul; James 2:19. You Believe that there is one God; you do well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

Question: What is the act of faith that justifies a sinner?

Answer: It is the receiving of Christ, by the full and hearty consent of the heart that justifies us? John 1:12. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.

Question: What is the object of faith?

Answer: The primary object of faith is the person of Christ, and the secondary are his benefits; Isaiah 45:22. Look unto me, and be saved, all the ends of the earth, etc. Philippians 3:8, 9. Yes, doubtless, and I count all things but loss, for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: For whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung that I may win Christ, and be found in him, not having my own righteousness which is of the law, but that which is through faith in Christ; the righteousness which is of God by faith.

Question: May not a man look partly to Christ, and partly to his own works and duties for righteousness?

Answer: No; he must eye Christ only, and exclude all others, or he cannot be justified; Philippians 3:9. And be found in him, not having my own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through faith in Christ: The righteousness which is of God by faith, Romans 4:5. But to him that works not, but believes on him that justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.

Question: Is it enough to eye the person of Christ only in believing?

Answer: No; we must eye the person of Christ, as clothed with all his offices; Acts 16:31. And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you shall be saved, and your house. Our ignorance needs him as a prophet, our guilt as a priest, our sins and enemies as a king.

Question: Is true faith faith exclusive of all fears and doubts?

Answer: No; it is not, but true believers are troubled with many fears and doubtings; Isaiah 50:10. Who is he among you that fears the Lord, that obeys the voice of his servant, that walks in darkness, and has no light, etc. Mark 9:24. And immediately the Father of the child cries out with tears, Lord, I believe, help you mine unbelief.

Question: Is no man actually justified until he believe?

Answer: No, he cannot be justified actually until he believe actually; Galatians 3:22. But the scripture has concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe John 3:18. He who believes on him, is not condemned: But he who believes not is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

Question: Is every man who believes justified immediately and fully upon his believing?

Answer: Yes, he is; Romans 5:1. Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. John 5:24. He who hears my words, and believes on him that sent me, has everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

Question: What is the true character or description of a believer?

Answer: He is one that, having been convinced of his sin and misery, and of his own and all other creatures inability to save him, and of the ability and willingness of Christ to save him, lets go all hold and dependence on creatures, and his own righteousness, and casts himself entirely upon Christ for righteousness and life. Of the Properties, Signs, and Means of Faith


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHAT is repentance unto life?

Answer: Repentance unto life is a saving grace, whereby a sinner, out of a true sense of his sin, and apprehension of the mercy of God in Christ, does with grief and hatred of his sin, turn from it unto God, with full purpose of, and endeavor after new obedience.

Question: Who is the author of saving repentance?

Answer: The Spirit of God is the author of it; the heart by nature is so hard, that none but the Spirit can break it; Ezekiel 36:26, 27. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: And I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, etc.

Question: In what act does all true repentance begin?

Answer: It begins in a true sight and sense of sin, and the danger and misery we are in by sin; Acts 2:37. Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their hearts, etc.

Question: Why does God work such a sense of sin and misery?

Answer: He does it to make Christ desirable in the sinner's eyes, that he may fly to him; Matthew 9:12, 13. But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. But go you and learn what that means, and I will have mercy, and not sacrifice; for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

Question: Is the sight of sin sufficient to repentance?

Answer: No; there must be apprehension of mercy and forgiveness with God, or else no man can sincerely repent; Romans 2:4. Not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance. And this mercy must be discerned in and through Christ; Zechariah 12:10. And they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him as one mourns for his only son, and shall be in bitterness for him as one that is in bitterness for his first-born.

Question: Wherein does repentance chiefly consist?

Answer: It consists in real inward sorrow for sin, as committed against God: Psalm 51:3, 4. For I acknowledge my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. Against you, you only have I sinned, and done this evil in your sight, etc. A loathing of ourselves for it; Ezekiel 36:31. And shall loath yourselves in your own sight, for your iniquities, and for your abominations. And of our best duties, as sinful and insufficient things; Isaiah 64:5, 6. We are all as an unclean thing; and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags, etc.

Question: Wherein else does it consist?

Answer: In turning from sin, as well as grieving for it; Isaiah 55:7. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts, etc. Proverbs 28:13. He who covers his sins, shall not prosper; but whoever confesses and forsakes them, shall have mercy.

Question: Is turning from sin sufficient?

Answer: No, that is but the negative part of religion; there must be also a sincere turning to God; Psalm 119:59. I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto your testimonies; Acts 11:23. And exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.

Question: Is all sorrow for sin saving?

Answer: No; there is a repentance that does no good; Matthew 27:3. Then Judas which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, etc. And a repentance unto life; Acts 11:18. Then has God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.

Question: What are the signs of true repentance?

Answer: Fear of sin; care to preserve ourselves from it; and zeal to honor God by new obedience; 2 Corinthians 7:11. For behold, this self-same thing that you sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you; yes, what clearing of yourselves; yes, what indignation; yes, what fear; yes, what vehement desire; yes, what zeal; yes, what revenge? In all things you have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.

Question: Is there a necessity of repentance in order to forgiveness?

Answer: Yes, there is; and they are therefore conjoined in scripture; Acts 5:31. For to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins And destruction threatened to the impenitent: Luke 13:3. Except you repent, you shall all likewise perish.

Question: What is the first inference hence?

Answer: That it is a false doctrine which teaches us that sins are actually forgiven from eternity; and therefore no need either of repentance or prayer, save only for the manifestation of pardon.

Question: What is the second inference hence?

Answer: That an hard heart is a dreadful sign of a lost state of soul; Romans 2:5. But after your hardness and impenitent heart, treasures up unto yourself wrath against the day of wrath, and revelation of the righteous judgment of God.

Question: What is the last inference hence?

Answer: That there is no cause to despair of the vilest sinner, seeing there is power enough in the Spirit of God to break the hardest heart; Ezekiel 36:26. I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. Of Christ's Ordinances


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHAT are the outward means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption?

Answer: The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption, are his ordinances; especially the word, sacraments, and prayer; all which are made effectual to the elect for salvation.

Question: What makes anything become a divine ordinance?

Answer: The institution or appointment of God, is that alone which makes a divine ordinance; Matthew 28:20. Teaching them to observe all things whatever I have commanded you, etc.

Question: Are the institutions of all ordinances alike clear in scripture?

Answer: No; Some are more explicitly and clearly revealed in scripture than others; as the Lord's supper is more clear than baptism: But whatever has scripture-warrant, in the words or consequence, is of divine appointment.

Question: May not men institute ordinances of divine worship?

Answer: No; this in scripture is condemned as will-worship; Colossians 2:20, 22, 23. Wherefore if you be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world; why, as though living in the world, are you subject to ordinances? etc. Which things indeed have a show of wisdom in will-worship, etc.

Question: Why cannot man institute a divine ordinance?

Answer: He cannot do it, because it is the prerogative belonging to Christ's kingly office; Matthew 28:20. Teaching them to observe all things whatever I have commanded you.

Question: For what other reason cannot man do it?

Answer: Because he cannot bless them, and make them effectual to their ends: but they will be in vain; Matthew 15:9. But in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.

Question: Why are the ordinances called means of salvation?

Answer: Because by and through them the Spirit of the Lord conveys spiritual graces into men's souls; 1 Corinthians 1:21. It pleased God, by the foolishness of preaching, to save them that believe. 1 Corinthians 3:5. Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom you believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?

Question: Whence is the virtue of ordinances?

Answer: It is not in and from themselves, or the gifts and abilities of him that administers them, but from the blessing and Spirit of the Lord; 1 Corinthians 3:7. Neither is he who plants anything, neither he who waters, but God that gives the increase.

Question: Do all God's ordinances attain their end?

Answer: Yes; there is none of them in vain, but do attain their end, in the salvation or damnation of all that come under them; Isaiah 55:10, 11. For as the rain comes down, and the snow from Heaven, and returns not thither, but waters the earth, and makes it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: So shall my word be, that goes forth out of my mouth: It shall not return unto me void; but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I send it. 2 Corinthians 2:15, 16. For we are unto God a sweet savor of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: To the one we are the savor of death unto death, and to the other the savor of life unto life, etc.

Question: Are instituted ordinances the only means of salvation?

Answer: They are not the only means; for God can convert men to Christ without them; Acts 9:4, 5. And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecute you me? And he said, Who are you Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus, whom you persecute: It is hard for you to kick against the pricks. But they are the ordinary standing means; 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? etc.

Question: To whom are the ordinances made effectual to salvation?

Answer: To all God's elect they are effectual to salvation, and to them only; Acts 13:48. As many as were ordained to eternal life, believed. John 10:26. But you believe not, because you are not of my sheep, etc.

Question: What is the first instruction from hence?

Answer: That great preparation is due to all the ordinances, before we engage in them; Job 11:13, 14. If you prepare your heart, and stretch out your hands towards him. If iniquity be in your hand, put it far away, and let not wickedness dwell in your tabernacles. 1 Chron 29:18. And prepare their heart unto you.

Question: What is the second inference from hence?

Answer: That great reverence is due to God's ordinances, when we are actually engaged in the use of them; Psalm 89:7. God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints; and to be had in reverence of all them that are about him.

Question: What is the third inference from hence?

Answer: That those people that want ordinances, are in a sad and deplorable condition; Ephesians 2:11, 12. Wherefore remember that you being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called uncircumcision by that which is called the circumcision in the flesh made by hands; that at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world.

Question: What is the last instruction hence?

Answer: That those that perish in the midst of ordinances, and means of salvation, will perish with aggravated perdition; Matthew 11:23. And you Capernaum, which are exalted unto Heaven, shall be brought down to Hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in you, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. Of the Word read and heard


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: HOW is the word made effectual to salvation?

Answer: The Spirit of God makes the reading, but especially the preaching of the word, an effectual means of convincing and converting sinners; and building them up in holiness and comfort, through faith, unto salvation.

Question: What mean you by the word?

Answer: By the word is meant the word of God, consigned to writing in the books of the Old and New Testament; which though it be ministered by men, yet is no other than the very word of God, and as such to be received; 1 Thessalonians 2:13. For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God, which you heard of us, you received it not as the word of men; but (as it is in truth) the word of God, etc.

Question: Whence is the efficacy of this word?

Answer: It is wholly from the Spirit of God that it becomes effectual to any man's salvation; 1 Corinthians 3:6, 7. I have planted, and Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. So then, neither is he who plants anything, neither he who waters; but God that gives the increase.

Question: Is the reading of the scripture an ordinance of God for men's salvation?

Answer: Yes, it is; Deuteronomy 17:19. And it shall be with him, and he shall feed therein all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear the Lord his God, to keep all the words of this law, and these statutes to do them. And in reading of it, God sometimes comes in by his Spirit to men's conversion; Acts 8:27, 28, 29. And he arose and went, and behold a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, was returning, and sitting in his chariot, read Isaias the prophet. Then the Spirit said to Philip, Go near, and join yourself to this chariot, etc.

Question: Is the hearing of the word a means of salvation?

Answer: Yes, it is; Isaiah 55:3. Incline your ear, and come unto me; hear, and your soul shall live, etc. 1 Corinthians 1:21. It pleased God by the foolishness of preaching, to save them that believe.

Question: To what end is the word useful to men?

Answer: The first end and use of the word is to convince men of their sin and misery out of Christ; 1 Corinthians 14:24, 25. But if all prophesy, and there come in one who believes not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all. And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest, etc.

Question: What is it useful for, besides conviction?

Answer: It is useful for conversion, as well as conviction; Psalm 19:7. The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul, etc. Acts 26:18. To turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, etc.

Question: Does the word convince and convert all that hear it?

Answer: No, but those only that are ordained to eternal life; Acts 13:48. As many as were ordained to eternal life believed.

Question: What else is the word useful for?

Answer: To build up the saints to perfection in Christ; Ephesians 4:11, 12, 13. And he gave some apostles, and some prophets, and some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ; until we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man; unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. Acts 20:32. And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and give you an inheritance among all them that are sanctified.

Question: May the common people read the scriptures?

Answer: Yes, it is a duty commanded by Christ; John 5:39. Search the scriptures, etc. And commended by the apostle; Acts 17:11. These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

Question: Is it their duty or liberty also to preach it?

Answer: No, it is not; for besides abilities for that work, there must be a call; Romans 10:14, 15. How shall they hear without a preacher? and how shall they preach, except they be sent, etc.

Question: What is the first instruction from hence?

Answer: That the enjoyments of the scriptures, and an able, faithful ministry to expound and apply them, is a special mercy to any people; Psalm 147:19, 20. He shows his word unto Jacob, his statutes and judgments unto Israel; he has not dealt so with any nation; and as for his judgments they have not known them.

Question: What is the second instruction?

Answer: That men cannot expect special and spiritual blessings from God in the willful neglect of the ordinances; Proverbs 28:9. He who turns away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination.

Question: What is the third inference?

Answer: That sad is their condition, who sit all their days under the word to no purpose at all; 2 Corinthians 4:3, 4. If our gospel be hid, it is hidden to them that are lost: in whom the God of this world has blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine into them.

Question: What is the last inference?

Answer: That Christ's ordinances and ministers should be most welcome to the people to whom God sends them; Isaiah 52:7. How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that brings good tidings, that publishes peace, that publishes salvation, that says unto Zion, Your God reigns. Of the Manner of Hearing


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: HOW is the word to be read and heard, that it may become effectual to salvation?

Answer: That the word may become effectual to salvation, we must attend thereunto with diligence, preparation, and prayer, receive it with faith and love, lay it up in your hearts, and practice it in your lives.

Question: If the matter we read or hear be good, is not that enough for our salvation?

Answer: No, God requires that the word be read and heard in a due manner, and the manner of hearing is of special regard with God; Luke 8:18. Take heed therefore how you hear, etc.

Question: How many things belong to the due manner of hearing?

Answer: Three sorts of duties belong to it; some antecedent, as preparation and prayer; some concomitant, as due diligence and retention; and some subsequent, as practice.

Question: What is due preparation for hearing?

Answer: It consists in serious consideration of the greatness and holiness of that God whom we approach in hearing the word; Acts 10:33. Now therefore we are all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded you of God. And awing the heart even to a degree of holy trembling thereby; Isaiah 66:2. To him will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembles at my word.

Question: What is the principal consideration thus to awe the heart?

Answer: The word is in its own nature a heart-searching word; Hebrews 4:12. For 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. And that eventually it will be the savor of life or death to us; 2 Corinthians 2:16. To the one we are the savor of death unto death; and to the other the savor of life unto life, etc.

Question: What else belongs to due preparation to hear?

Answer: The discharging of the heart from worldly cares; Matthew 13:7. And some fell among thorns, and the thorns sprang up and choked them. And carnal lusts; James 1:21. Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.

Question: What is the third act of due preparation?

Answer: Longing after the word for further communications of grace by it; 1 Peter 2:2. As new-born babes desire the sincere milk of the word, that you may grow thereby. Isaiah 2:3. And many people shall go and say, Come you, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob, and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.

Question: What is the second antecedent duty of hearing?

Answer: Prayer is an antecedent duty to hearing the word, and that both for the assistance of the minister; 2 Thessalonians 3:1. Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you. And our own illumination; Psalm 119:18. Open you mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.

Question: What else should we pray for?

Answer: That God would pour out his Spirit with the word, according to that promise, Proverbs 1:23. I will pour out my Spirit upon you, I will make known my words unto you.

Question: Does unpreparedness for the word always hinder its efficacy on the heart?

Answer: No, God sometimes is found of them that sought him not; Isaiah 65:1. I was found of them that sought me not, etc. But it is a sin to neglect it, and needs a pardon of God.

Question: What is the first motive to prepare for solemn duties?

Answer: That it argues the sincerity of the heart, and in that case God will be merciful to infirmities; 2 Chronicles 30:18, 19. For a multitude of the people, even a multitude of Ephraim and Manasseh, Issachar, and Zebulun, had not cleansed themselves, yet did eat the Passover, but not as it is written; wherefore Hezekiah prayed for them, saying, The good Lord be merciful towards him that prepares his whole heart to seek the Lord God, the God of his fathers, though he be not cleansed according to the purification of the sanctuary.

Question: What is the second motive?

Answer: It is a sweet sign that God will make that duty successful for which the heart is prepared; Psalm 10:17. You prepare their heart; you bend your ear to them.

Question: What is the third motive to preparation?

Answer: The majesty and jealousy of God, to whom we approach, obliges us to solemn preparation; Hebrews 12:28, 29. Whereby we may serve God acceptably, with reverence and godly fear; for our God is a consuming fire.

Question: But must a man neglect the duty, if his heart be not duly prepared for it?

Answer: No; for that would be to add a new sin to a former, and aggravate it the more.

Question: In what manner must the prepared heart go to the word?

Answer: Not in dependence on its own preparations, but upon the Spirit's assistance; Psalm 71:16. I will go forward in the strength of the Lord God, etc.

Question: What is the first act of faith due to the word?

Answer: The assenting act of faith is required to the word read or preached, whereby we acknowledge it to be of divine authority; 2 Timothy 3:16. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; 2 Peter 1:21. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man; but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.

Question: What is the second act of faith required of us?

Answer: An applying act of faith is also required of us; Romans 15:4. For whatever things were written aforetime, were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.

Question: What is the first end in applying the word?

Answer: It is first to be applied to our conviction both of sin and misery; Acts 2:37. Now when they heard this they were pricked in their hearts, and said unto Peter, and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?

Question: What is the second end, or use of applying it?

Answer: It must be applied for our guidance and direction to Christ; John 6:45. Every man therefore that has heard, and has learned of the Father, Comes unto me.

Question: What is the third use to which it must be applied?

Answer: We must apply it for our direction through the whole course of Christian duties: 2 Peter 1:19. We have also a most sure word of prophecy; whereunto you do well that you take heed, as unto a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day-star arise in your hearts.

Question: What other use must we apply it to?

Answer: It must be applied for our comfort in all inward and outward troubles: Romans 15:4. For whatever things were written aforetime, were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.

Question: On what account are we to receive it with love?

Answer: We are to love it for its author's sake, because it is the word of God; Psalm 119:159. Consider how I love your precepts, etc.

Question: What is the second motive of love to the word?

Answer: The holiness and purity of it deserves and engages our love to it; Psalm 119:140. Your word is very pure; therefore your servant loves it.

Question: What is the third motive to engage our love to it?

Answer: The great and constant usefulness of it to our souls, as that we cannot exist without; Job 23:12. I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.

Question: How does this love to the word manifest itself?

Answer: Our love manifests itself in our longing after it; Psalm 119:20. My soul breaks for the longing that it has unto your judgments at all times. Our diligent attendance on it; Acts 10:33. Immediately therefore I sent unto you, and you have well done that you are come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded you of God.

Question: How is faith and love evidenced to the word after hearing it?

Answer: By preserving it carefully in our hearts and memories; Psalm 119:11. Your word have I hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against you.

Question: What is the best cure for a bad memory?

Answer: Labor to get an high esteem of it, and an experimental feeling of it, and frequently meditate on it; Psalm 119:16. I will delight myself in your statutes: I will not forget your word. Psalm 119:93. I will never forget your precepts; for with them you have quickened me. Psalm 119:99. Your testimonies are my meditation.

Question: How is faith and love principally manifested to the word after hearing?

Answer: It is principally manifested by bringing forth the fruits of it in our lives; Colossians 1:5, 6. For the hope which is laid up for you in Heaven, whereof you heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel, which is come unto you, as it is in all the world, and brings forth fruit, as it does also in you, since the day you have heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth.

Question: What is the use of all this?

Answer: This serves to reprove our formal and dead hearing the word, and excites us all to evidence and exercise more faith, love, and obedience, in hearing it. Of Sacraments as Means of Salvation


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: HOW do the sacraments become effectual means of salvation?

Answer: The sacraments become effectual means of salvation, not from any virtue in them, or in him that does administer them, but only by the blessing of Christ, and the working of his Spirit in them that by faith receive them.

Question: What is the first proper sense of this word sacrament?

Answer: It primarily signifies a solemn oath taken by soldiers, when they list themselves under a prince or general; and this oath was mutual.

Question: Why do we use it, seeing it is not a scripture word?

Answer: Though the word be not found in scripture, yet the thing intended by it is, and that brings the word in use; for in the sacraments God obliges himself to us by confirming his covenant by it; Romans 4:11. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith, which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also. And we oblige ourselves to God; Romans 6:3, 4. Know you not that so many of us as were baptized into Christ, were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death, that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

Question: What is here meant by salvation?

Answer: By salvation is meant our complete and final deliverance from sin and misery, both temporal and eternal. From sin, Matthew 1:21. For he shall save his people from their sins. From misery, 1 Thessalonians 1:10. Even Jesus who delivered us from the wrath to come.

Question: What is a mean of salvation?

Answer: A mean of salvation signifies any appointment of God, whereby he promotes and accomplishes his design of saving our souls; so the word is a mean; Romans 1:16. For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation, to every one who believes.

Question: How does the word and sacraments differ as means of salvation?

Answer: The word is appointed to be the first means of begetting faith; 1 Corinthians 3:5. Who then is Paul? And who is Apollos? But ministers by whom you believed, etc. Sacraments are to seal and confirm it; Romans 4:11. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of faith, etc.

Question: What is meant by an effectual mean of salvation?

Answer: By an effectual mean, is meant such a mean as fully obtains and accomplishes the end it was appointed for, 1 Thessalonians 2:13. Because when you received the word of God, which you heard of us, you received it not as the word of men; but (as it is in truth) the word of God, which effectually works also in you that believe.

Question: Do not all the means of salvation prove effectual to men?

Answer: Though the means of salvation prove effectual to all God's elect, yet they are not so to others; Acts 28:23, 24. And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging, to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning until evening. And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.

Question: Do not the sacraments save all that partake of them?

Answer: No, they do not; baptism may pass on a cast-away; Acts 8:23. For I perceive that you are in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. And the Lord's supper may be received unworthily; 1 Corinthians 11:27. Wherefore, whoever shall eat this bread, and drink the cup of the Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.

Question: What is the reason they prove not effectual to all?

Answer: Because their virtue and efficacy is not in themselves, but in God; for we see they work as God's Spirit concurs, or not concurs with them, as in the instance before given.

Question: But is not that for want of wisdom, holiness, or zeal in the minister, that they have no more efficacy?

Answer: No, it is not principally, or only from thence; for it is not in the power of the holiest minister in the world to make them effectual; 1 Corinthians 3:7. Neither is he who plants anything, neither he who waters; but God that gives the increase.

Question: Whence is it that sacraments become effectual?

Answer: It is only from the Spirit of Christ working in them, and by them on the souls of men; 1 Corinthians 12:13. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body,-and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

Question: What is the first instruction hence?

Answer: That men enjoying all the ordinances of the gospel, and partaking of the sacraments annexed to the covenant of grace, may yet perish forever; 1 Corinthians 10:3, 4, 5. And did all eat the same spiritual meat; and did all drink the same spiritual drink; (for they drank of that spiritual rock that followed them: and that rock was Christ.) But with many of them God was not well pleased; for they were overthrown in the wilderness; Luke 13:26, 27. Then shall you begin to say, we have eaten and drunk in your presence, and you have taught in our streets. But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence you are; depart from me all you workers of iniquity.

Question: What is the second inference?

Answer: That men should not idolize some ministers for the excellency of their gifts, and despise others, seeing it is not in them to make the means effectual.

Question: What is the last inference?

Answer: That in all our attendance upon the means of salvation, we should be careful to beg the Spirit and blessing of Christ, without which they cannot be effectual to our salvation. Of the Nature of Sacraments


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHAT is a sacrament?

Answer: A sacrament is a holy ordinance instituted by Christ; wherein by sensible signs, Christ and the benefits of the new covenant are represented, sealed, and applied to believers.

Question: How many sorts of sacraments are found in scripture?

Answer: Of sacraments there are two sorts, some extraordinary and transient, as the fiery pillar, manna, and water out of the rock; 1 Corinthians 10:1, 2, 3, 4. Moreover, brethren, I would not that you should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; and were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud, and in the sea; and did all eat the same spiritual meat; and did all drink the same spiritual drink; (for they drank of that spiritual rock that followed them: and that rock was Christ.) And some ordinary and standing, as circumcision and the Passover, before Christ; and baptism and the Lord's supper, since Christ's death.

Question: How many things are to be considered in every sacrament?

Answer: In every sacrament five things must be considered; (1.) The author. (2.) The parts. (3.) The union of those parts. (4.) The subjects. (5.) The ends and uses of it.

Question: Who is the author of the sacraments?

Answer: The Lord Jesus Christ as King of the church, by whose sole authority baptism was instituted; Matthew 28:19, 20. Go you therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit: Teaching them to observe all things, whatever I have commanded you, etc. And the Lord's supper; 1 Corinthians 11:23, 24. For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus, the same night in which he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, take, eat, this is my body, which is broken for you: This do in remembrance of me.

Question: Are the old sacraments yet in being and in use in the church?

Answer: No, they are passed away, and the new come in their room. Baptism takes place of circumcision; Colossians 2:11, 12. In whom also you are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ; buried with him in baptism, etc. And the Lord's supper of the Passover; 1 Corinthians 5:7. Purge out therefore the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, as you are unleavened, for even Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us.

Question: Of what parts does every sacrament consist?

Answer: Every sacrament consists of two parts, one external and earthly; another internal and heavenly, or spiritual. Bread, wine, and water, are the external, Christ's blood and Spirit the internal parts; Romans 6:3. Know you not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ, were baptized into his death? 1 Corinthians 11:25. This cup is the New Testament in my blood, etc.

Question: Wherein consists the sacramental union of those parts?

Answer: It consists, by virtue of Christ's institution, in three things; (1.) In apt signification. (2.) Firm obsignation. And, (3.) Real exhibition of the blessings signified and sealed.

Question: What are the blessings signified by water in baptism?

Answer: It signifies our implantation into Christ, and communion with him in his death and resurrection; Romans 6:4. Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death, that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father; even so we also should walk in newness of life. And our solemn admission into the visible church; Galatians 3:26, 27, 28, 29. For you are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ, have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female; For you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you be Christ's then are you Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.

Question: What are the blessings signified by bread and wine?

Answer: They signify Christ's body and blood, broken and poured out for us, with all the blessings of remission, peace, and salvation purchased by his blood, 1 Corinthians 10:16, 17. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? For we being many, are one bread, and one body; for we are all partakers of that one bread.

Question: Do the sacraments seal, as well as signify these things?

Answer: Yes, they do; Romans 4:11. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith, etc. Their use is to confirm God's covenant with believers.

Question: Who are the proper subjects of the sacraments?

Answer: Believers and their seed are the subjects of baptism, but adult Christians only of the Lord's supper; Acts 2:38, 39. Repent, and be baptized every one of you; for the promise is unto you, and to your children, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. 1 Corinthians 11:28. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup.

Question: What is the main use and end of sacraments?

Answer: It is to ratify and confirm God's covenant with believers; Romans 4:11. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised, etc. 1 Corinthians 11:26. For as often as you eat this bread, and drink this cup, you do show the Lord's death until he come.

Question: What is the first instruction from hence?

Answer: That the abuse of such holy and solemn mysteries is a sin of dreadful aggravation, and such as God will punish; 1 Corinthians 11:27. Wherefore, whoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.

Question: What is the second instruction?

Answer: Hence we learn the tender care and love of Christ over the church, in instituting such useful and comfortable ordinances for us. Of the Number of Sacraments


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHICH are the sacraments of the New Testament?

Answer: The sacraments of the New Testament are, baptism and the Lord's supper.

Question: How many sacraments has Christ appointed in the New Testament?

Answer: Christ has appointed two, and no more: these being sufficient for our initiation and confirmation.

Question: How many have the Papists added to them?

Answer: They have added five more; namely, Confirmation, penance, ordination, marriage, and extreme unction.

Question: What is their sacrament of confirmation?

Answer: It is the anointing of the baptized with chrism in the forehead, with this form of words; I sign you with the sign of the cross, and confirm you with the chrism of salvation, in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Question: What is their ground for this practice?

Answer: The abuse of that Scripture, Hebrews 6:2. Of the doctrine of baptisms, and laying on of hands, etc. which, by a figurative speech, expresses the whole standing ministry in the church, by laying on of hands.

Question: What is their sacrament of penance?

Answer: It is repentance manifested by outward signs, to which the word of absolution coming, makes it a sacrament misgrounded on John 20:23. Whoever sins you remit, they are remitted unto them; and whoever sins you retain, they are retained.

Question: What is their sacrament of orders, or ordination?

Answer: It is the laying on of hands in ordination of ministers, by which they conceive spiritual grace is given; by mistake of 2 Timothy 1:6. Wherefore I put you in remembrance, that you stir up the gift of God which is in you, by the putting on of my hands.

Question: What is their fourth superadded sacrament?

Answer: It is marriage, grounded upon those words of the apostle, Ephesians 5:32. This is a great mystery; but I speak concerning Christ and the church. Which only shows a similitude of our union with Christ, not an instituted sign to that end.

Question: What is their fifth superadded sacrament?

Answer: Extreme unction, or anointing the sick, near death, with consecrated oil, grounded on Mark 6:13. And anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them. And James 5:14. Is any sick among you? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. Which are neither sacramental rites, nor of ordinary standing use in the church, but extraordinary and temporary for that age.

Question: What learn we hence?

Answer: Hence we learn, how apt men are to corrupt God's ordinances, by their superstitious additions; Matthew 15:9. Teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.

Question: What is the second instruction hence?

Answer: How just and necessary our separation from Rome is, who have grossly corrupted God's ordinances, and left men no other remedy; Revelation 13:6. And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in Heaven.

Question: What is the third instruction?

Answer: That the reformation of religion is an invaluable mercy, a great deliverance from spiritual bondage; Revelation 11:19. And the temple of God was opened in Heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail.

Question: What is the fourth instruction?

Answer: That Rome shall certainly fall, and all her adherents, for the horrid injury done by them to Christ, and the souls of men; Revelation 18:20, 21. Rejoice over her you Heaven, and you holy apostles and prophets; for God has avenged you on her. And a mighty angel took up a stone like a great milstone, and cast it into the sea, saying, Thus with violence shall that great city Babylon be thrown down, and shall be found no more at all. Of Baptism


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHAT is baptism?

Answer: Baptism is a sacrament, wherein the washing with water, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, does signify and seal our ingrafting into Christ, and partaking of the benefits of the covenant of grace, and our engagement to be the Lord's.

Question: What is the external part of baptism?

Answer: It is pure unmixed water; Hebrews 10:22. And our bodies washed with pure water. And therefore it is a vile practice of Papists, to add oil, salt, and spittle, to water in baptism.

Question: What does water in baptism signify?

Answer: It signifies the blood of Christ; Revelation 1:5. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood.

Question: What is the first resemblance it has to Christ's blood?

Answer: In the freeness of it to all, it represents the unpurchased blood of Christ; Isaiah 55:1. Ho, every one that thirsts, come you to the waters; and he who has no money, come you, buy and eat; yes, come, buy wine and milk, without money, and without price.

Question: What is the second resemblance to Christ's blood?

Answer: It resembles it in its refreshing quality; water refreshes the thirsty, so does Christ's blood; John 6:35. He who believes on me shall never thirst.

Question: What is the third resemblance it has to Christ's blood?

Answer: The cleansing property of water shows the purifying virtue of Christ's blood; Hebrews 9:14. How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit, offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works, to serve the living God?

Question: What is the fourth resemblance it has to Christ's blood?

Answer: It resembles it in the necessity of it: For as the body cannot live without water, so neither can the soul without Christ's blood; Hebrews 9:23. It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.

Question: What is the fifth resemblance of water to the blood of Christ?

Answer: As water neither refreshes nor purifies the body without application; so neither does Christ's blood refresh or purify the soul until applied; 1 Corinthians 1:30. But of him are you in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.

Question: Is it necessary to plunge the whole body under water, in baptizing every person?

Answer: The word [baptize] signifying as well to wash, as to plunge; a person may be truly baptized, that is not plunged. And we cannot think by the circumstance of time and place, that the jailor, in the night, was carried to a river out of the city; Acts 16:33. And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes, and was baptized, he and all his immediately.

Question: But it is not said, John 3:23. That John also was baptizing in Enon, near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came and were baptized?

Answer: The word signifies many waters, that is, springs of waters there; which are known by travelers to be small, not capable of plunging into.

Question: What are the benefits accruing to us by baptism?

Answer: The benefits are two fold: some external, called the fatness of the olive-tree; that is ordinances, and visible membership; Romans 11:17. And you being a wild olive-tree, were engrafted in among them, and with them partakers of the root and fatness of the olive-tree. And some spiritual and saving; 1 Peter 3:21. The like figure whereunto, even baptism, does also now save us, (not the putting away the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience towards God) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Question: What engagements are laid on the baptized?

Answer: They are engaged to be the Lord's people, and to walk suitably to that engagement; Romans 6:4. Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

Question: Is baptism to be reiterated, as the Lord's supper?

Answer: No; for the Lord's supper is a sacrament for nourishing, but this for implantation; Romans 6:4, 5. Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we should be also in the likeness of his resurrection.

Question: Does baptism regenerate men, and confer saving grace?

Answer: No, it does not, in its own virtue, convey grace, no more than the Lord's supper; but the Spirit of God is the author of grace, and works it as he pleases, before or after baptism. Of the Subjects of Baptism


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: TO whom is baptism to be administered?

Answer: Baptism is not to be administered to any that are out of the visible church, until they profess their faith in Christ, and obedience to him; but the infants of such as are members of the visible church are to be baptized.

Question: Who are to be baptized?

Answer: Believers, and their infant-offspring; Acts 2:39. For the promise is to you, and your children, and to all that are afar off, even many as the Lord our God shall call.

Question: How does it appear, that the infant-seed of believers ought to be baptized?

Answer: It appears by this, that they being Abraham's seed, were taken into covenant with God, and ordered to have the sign of the covenant applied to them; and that grant was never rever.d; Genesis 17:7, 10. And I will establish my covenant between me and you, and your seed after you, in their generations, for an everlasting covenant; to be a God unto you, and to your seed after you. This is my covenant, which you shall keep between me and you, and your seed after you; even every man-child among you shall be circumcised.

Question: But was not that the covenant of works; and so will not hold, to infer their privilege under the covenant of grace?

Answer: No, it was not; for God never did, nor will become a God by way of special interest to any people; by virtue of the covenant of works, since the breach of it by the fall.

Question: But if it were the covenant of grace, how does it appear the right of believers infants is still the same it was before in Abraham's time?

Answer: It appears plainly from the apostle's own words and arguments; Acts 2:39. For the promise is to you, and to your children, etc.

Question: But though infants then were members of God's visible church among the Jews, how does it appear they are so now, when God has cast them off?

Answer: It appears, the membership and privileges are as free and complete to them now, that are the children of Gentile believers, as ever they were to the Jewish infants; Romans 11:17. And if some of the branches be broken off, and you being a wild olive tree, were engrafted in among them, and with them partake of the root and fatness of the olive-tree.

Question: How else does it appear they are within the covenant?

Answer: It appears by this, that they are pronounced holy; 1 Corinthians 7:14. Else were your children unclean, but now are they holy. Which is a federal holiness, and none out of covenant can be holy by covenant.

Question: But may not that place mean only their legitimacy?

Answer: No, it cannot; for then the apostle must pronounce all the infants in the world bastards, that descend not at least from one believing parent.

Question: But infants are not capable to covenant with God, or to perform covenant-duties; and therefore why should they be admitted to covenant-privileges?

Answer: A child now of eight days old, is as capable of being admitted into covenant with God, as children of the same age were in Abraham's days: and then it is manifest they were admitted.

Question: Though they were admitted by circumcision then, will it follow, they may be so by baptism now, seeing that ordinance is abolished?

Answer: Yes, it will: For though circumcision cease, yet baptism is come in its place; Colossians 2:10, 11, 12. And you are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power. In whom also you are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, buried with him in baptism, etc.

Question: But circumcision was a seal of the covenant of works; and the argument will not hold, from a seal of the covenant of works, to a seal of the covenant of grace?

Answer: Circumcision never was, nor was intended to be a seal of the covenant of works, but of the righteousness of faith; Romans 4:11. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet, being uncircumcised, etc.

Question: But have we no express command in the New Testament to baptize infants?

Answer: There needed no new command; their privilege had been settled many ages before upon them, and never rever.d by Christ, or his apostles, but their former right declared to continue still to them; Acts 2:39. For the promise is to you and to your children, etc.

Question: But if they have a right, we might expect to find some examples of their baptizing?

Answer: It is manifest that believers households were baptized with them; Acts 16:15, 33. And when she was baptized, and her household, etc. Verse 33. And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes, and was baptized, he and all his immediately. And if infants are not named, so neither are any of age, born of Christian parents.

Question: But many trust to their infant-baptism, as to their regeneration, and so much mischief is done?

Answer: They do so; yet the duty is not therefore to be neglected. The preaching of Christ is to some a stumbling-block; yet Christ must be preached for all that.

Question: But many baptized infants prove naught?

Answer: And so do many baptized at age too. Duties are not to be measured by events. Of the Lord's Supper


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHAT is the Lord's supper?

Answer: The Lord's supper is a sacrament, wherein, by giving and receiving bread and wine, according to Christ's appointment, his death is showed forth; and the worthy receivers are not after a corporal and carnal manner, but by faith made partakers of his body and blood, with all his benefits, to their spiritual nourishment, and growth in grace.

Question: By whose authority is the Lord's supper instituted and appointed?

Answer: By the sovereign authority of Christ, the king of the church, and not by the pleasure of man; 1 Corinthians 11:23. For I have received of the Lord, that which also I delivered unto you; that the Lord Jesus, the same night in which he was betrayed, took bread.

Question: Of what parts does this sacrament consist?

Answer: It consists of two parts; one earthly and visible, to wit, bread and wine; the other spiritual add invisible, the body and blood of Christ; 1 Corinthians 10:16. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?

Question: How does these earthly and heavenly things become a sacrament?

Answer: By the word of institution, and blessing coming from Christ upon them; 1 Corinthians 11:23, 24, 25. For I have received of the Lord, that which also I delivered unto you; that the Lord Jesus, the same night in which he was betrayed, took bread. And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat, this is my body which is broken for you: This do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the New Testament in my blood; This do you, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.

Question: When did Christ ordain and institute this sacrament?

Answer: He instituted it in the same night he was betrayed; 1 Corinthians 11:23. The Lord Jesus, the same night in which he was betrayed, took bread. It could not be sooner, because the Passover must be first celebrated, and, by the institution of this, abrogated; not later, for soon after he was apprehended.

Question: What does the time of its institution teach us?

Answer: It teaches us, how great Christ's care and love to his people is, that he makes in his ordinance such provision for our comfort, though he knew his own bitter agony was just at hand.

Question: What is the general use and end of this sacrament?

Answer: It is to confirm, seal, and ratify the new covenant to believers; 1 Corinthians 11:25. This cup is the New Testament in my blood: This do you, as oft as you drink it, in remembrance of me.

Question: What are the particular ends and uses of it?

Answer: The first particular end and use of it, is, to bring Christ and his sufferings a fresh to our remembrance; 1 Corinthians 11:24, 25. This do in remembrance of me.

Question: What kind of remembrance of Christ is here intended?

Answer: Not a mere speculative, but an affectionate heart-melting remembrance of him like that of Peter, Matthew 26:75. And Peter remembered the words of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the rooster shall crow you shall deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly. Or of Joseph, Genesis 43:29, 30. And Joseph made haste, for his affections did yern upon his brother: And he sought where to weep, and he entered into his chamber and wept there.

Question: What does this end of the sacrament imply?

Answer: It implies this; that the best of God's people are too apt to forget Christ, and what he has endured and suffered for them.

Question: What else does it imply?

Answer: It implies this; that none but those that have the saving knowledge of Christ, and have had former acquaintance with Christ, are fit for this ordinance; for no man can remember what he never knew; 1 Corinthians 11:28. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup.

Question: What is the second particular use and end of this sacrament?

Answer: It is to represent Christ to believers, as an apt sign of him, and of his death; and that both memorative, significative, and instructive.

Question: How is it a memorative sign of Christ?

Answer: It brings Christ to our remembrance, as his death and bitter sufferings are therein represented to us, by the breaking of bread, and pouring forth of wine; 1 Corinthians 11:26. For as often as you eat this bread, and drink this cup, you do show forth the Lord's death until he come.

Question: How is it a significative ordinance?

Answer: It is a significative ordinance, not only as it represents Christ's sufferings, but the believers union with him as the Head, and with each other as members of his body; 1 Corinthians 10:16, 17. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ; The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? For we being many, are one bread, and one body, etc.

Question: In what respect is it an instructive sign?

Answer: It is an instructive sign in divers respects; namely, first, as it teaches us, that Christ is the only nutritive bread, by which our souls live; John 6:51. I am the living bread, which came down from Heaven: If any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever, and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. And, secondly, as it instructs us, that the New Testament is now in its full force, by the death of Christ the Testator; Hebrews 9:16, 17. For where a Testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the Testator. For a testament is of force after men are dead; otherwise it is of no force at all, while the Testator lives. Thus much of the Author, nature, and ends of the Lord's supper. Of the Elements, Action, and Subjects of it