Author: Honza Pokorny <me@honza.ca>
Import code Signed-off-by: Honza Pokorny <me@honza.ca>
LICENSE | 201 README.md | 49 data/ancient-church/apostles-creed.yaml | 25 data/ancient-church/athanasian-creed.yaml | 58 data/ancient-church/chalcedonian-definition.yaml | 42 data/ancient-church/nicene-creed.yaml | 152 data/anglican/39-articles.yaml | 529 data/british/savoy.yaml | 3558 +++ data/html/nashville-wcf.html | 426 data/miscellany/catechism-young-children.yaml | 772 data/psalter/bopfw-tunes.json | 2287 ++ data/psalter/psalms.yaml | 15771 ++++++++++++++ data/psalter/topics.yaml | 1870 + data/reformation/95-theses.yaml | 255 data/second-london/1689-confession.yaml | 2435 ++ data/second-london/1858-abstract-of-principles.yaml | 170 data/second-london/keach.yaml | 1300 + data/swiss/second-helvetic.yaml | 3125 ++ data/three-forms-of-unity/belgic-confession.yaml | 890 data/three-forms-of-unity/canons-of-dort.yaml | 1194 + data/three-forms-of-unity/heidelberg-catechism.yaml | 3545 +++ data/westminster/directory-for-family-worship.yaml | 300 data/westminster/directory-for-publick-worship.yaml | 1310 + data/westminster/epistle-to-the-reader.yaml | 170 data/westminster/government.yaml | 1088 + data/westminster/solemn-league-and-covenant.yaml | 117 data/westminster/sum-of-saving-knowledge.yaml | 1297 + data/westminster/to-the-christian-reader.yaml | 223 data/westminster/wcf.yaml | 4036 +++ data/westminster/wlc.yaml | 5959 +++++ data/westminster/wsc-pca.yaml | 1527 + data/westminster/wsc.yaml | 1394 +
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Feel free to email us patches, or +open issues and pull requests on GitHub. diff --git a/data/.DS_Store b/data/.DS_Store new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..f1cae7171ffd0708a1a79990dbd8498a3d20292e Binary files /dev/null and b/data/.DS_Store differ diff --git a/data/ancient-church/apostles-creed.yaml b/data/ancient-church/apostles-creed.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..5081141b4905e1b5263c82ea3936c0ce31383b04 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/ancient-church/apostles-creed.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,25 @@ +--- +name: "The Apostles' Creed" +type: creed +markdown: true +text: | + I believe in God, the Father almighty, + creator of heaven and earth. + I believe in Jesus Christ, God's only Son, our Lord, + who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, + born of the Virgin Mary, + suffered under Pontius Pilate, + was crucified, died, and was buried; + he descended to the dead. + On the third day he rose again; + he ascended into heaven, + he is seated at the right hand of the Father, + and he will come to judge the living and the dead. + I believe in the Holy Spirit, + the holy catholic Church, + the communion of saints, + the forgiveness of sins, + the resurrection of the body, + and the life everlasting. + Amen. +... diff --git a/data/ancient-church/athanasian-creed.yaml b/data/ancient-church/athanasian-creed.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..dfb892a97f2934fe8bff11f457373f3f15e92937 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/ancient-church/athanasian-creed.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,58 @@ +--- +name: Athanasian Creed +publication_year: 6th century +type: creed +markdown: true +text: | + + Whosoever will be saved, before all things it is necessary that he hold the + catholic faith. Which faith unless every one do keep whole and undefiled, + without doubt he shall perish everlastingly. And the catholic faith is this: + that we worship one God in Trinity, and Trinity in Unity; neither confounding + the Persons, nor dividing the Essence. For there is one Person of the Father; + another of the Son; and another of the Holy Ghost. But the Godhead of the + Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, is all one; the Glory equal, the + Majesty coeternal. Such as the Father is; such is the Son; and such is the + Holy Ghost. The Father uncreated; the Son uncreated; and the Holy Ghost + uncreated. The Father unlimited; the Son unlimited; and the Holy Ghost + unlimited. The Father eternal; the Son eternal; and the Holy Ghost + eternal. And yet they are not three eternals; but one eternal. As also there + are not three uncreated; nor three infinites, but one uncreated; and one + infinite. So likewise the Father is Almighty; the Son Almighty; and the Holy + Ghost Almighty. And yet they are not three Almighties; but one Almighty. So + the Father is God; the Son is God; and the Holy Ghost is God. And yet they are + not three Gods; but one God. So likewise the Father is Lord; the Son Lord; and + the Holy Ghost Lord. And yet not three Lords; but one Lord. For like as we are + compelled by the Christian verity; to acknowledge every Person by himself to + be God and Lord; So are we forbidden by the catholic religion; to say, There + are three Gods, or three Lords. The Father is made of none; neither created, + nor begotten. The Son is of the Father alone; not made, nor created; but + begotten. The Holy Ghost is of the Father and of the Son; neither made, nor + created, nor begotten; but proceeding. So there is one Father, not three + Fathers; one Son, not three Sons; one Holy Ghost, not three Holy Ghosts. And + in this Trinity none is before, or after another; none is greater, or less + than another. But the whole three Persons are coeternal, and coequal. So that + in all things, as aforesaid; the Unity in Trinity, and the Trinity in Unity, + is to be worshipped. He therefore that will be saved, let him thus think of + the Trinity. + + Furthermore it is necessary to everlasting salvation; that he also believe + faithfully the Incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ. For the right Faith is, + that we believe and confess; that our Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is + God and Man; God, of the Essence of the Father; begotten before the worlds; + and Man, of the Essence of his Mother, born in the world. Perfect God; and + perfect Man, of a reasonable soul and human flesh subsisting. Equal to the + Father, as touching his Godhead; and inferior to the Father as touching his + Manhood. Who although he is God and Man; yet he is not two, but one + Christ. One; not by conversion of the Godhead into flesh; but by assumption of + the Manhood by God. One altogether; not by confusion of Essence; but by unity + of Person. For as the reasonable soul and flesh is one man; so God and Man is + one Christ; Who suffered for our salvation; descended into hell; rose again + the third day from the dead. He ascended into heaven, he sitteth on the right + hand of the God the Father Almighty, from whence he will come to judge the + living and the dead. At whose coming all men will rise again with their + bodies; And shall give account for their own works. And they that have done + good shall go into life everlasting; and they that have done evil, into + everlasting fire. This is the catholic faith; which except a man believe truly + and firmly, he cannot be saved. +... diff --git a/data/ancient-church/chalcedonian-definition.yaml b/data/ancient-church/chalcedonian-definition.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..35ee2e2a014daf0dfe9bf70e54efa7eb0dc6d0fc --- /dev/null +++ b/data/ancient-church/chalcedonian-definition.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,42 @@ +--- +name: Chalcedonian Definition +publication_year: 451 +type: creed +markdown: true +text: | + + Therefore, following the holy fathers, we all with one accord teach men to + acknowledge one and the same Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, at once complete in + Godhead and complete in manhood, truly God and truly man, consisting also of a + reasonable soul and body; of one substance with the Father as regards his + Godhead, and at the same time of one substance with us as regards his manhood; + like us in all respects, apart from sin; as regards his Godhead, begotten of + the Father before the ages, but yet as regards his manhood begotten, for us + men and for our salvation, of Mary the Virgin, the God-bearer; one and the + same Christ, Son, Lord, Only-begotten, recognized in two natures, without + confusion, without change, without division, without separation; the + distinction of natures being in no way annulled by the union, but rather the + characteristics of each nature being preserved and coming together to form one + person and subsistence, not as parted or separated into two persons, but one + and the same Son and Only-begotten God the Word, Lord Jesus Christ; even as + the prophets from earliest times spoke of him, and our Lord Jesus Christ + himself taught us, and the creed of the fathers has handed down to us. + + Ἑπόμενοι τοίνυν τοῖς ἁγίοις πατράσιν ἕνα καὶ τὸν αὐτὸν ὁμολογεῖν υἱὸν τὸν + κύριον ἡμῶν Ἰησοῦν Χριστὸν συμφώνως ἅπαντες ἐκδιδάσκομεν, τέλειον τὸν αὐτὸν + ἐν θεότητι καὶ τέλειον τὸν αὐτὸν ἐν ἀνθρωπότητι, θεὸν ἀληθῶς καὶ ἄνθρωπον + ἀληθῶς τὸν αὐτὸν, ἐκ ψυχῆς λογικῆς καὶ σώματος, ὁμοούσιον τῷ πατρὶ κατὰ τὴν + θεότητα, καὶ ὁμοούσιον τὸν αὐτὸν ἡμῖν κατὰ τὴν ἀνθρωπότητα, κατὰ πάντα ὅμοιον + ἡμῖν χωρὶς ἁμαρτίας· πρὸ αἰώνων μὲν ἐκ τοῦ πατρὸς γεννηθέντα κατὰ τὴν + θεότητα, ἐπ᾽ ἐσχάτων δὲ τῶν ἡμερῶν τὸν αὐτὸν δἰ ἡμᾶς καὶ διὰ τὴν ἡμετέραν + σωτηρίαν ἐκ Μαρίας τῆς παρθένου τῆς θεοτόκου κατὰ τὴν ἀνθρωπότητα, ἕνα καὶ + τὸν αὐτὸν Χριστόν, υἱόν, κύριον, μονογενῆ, ἐκ δύο φύσεων [ἐν δύο φύσεσιν], + ἀσυγχύτως, ἀτρέπτως, ἀδιαιρέτως, ἀχωρίστως γνωριζόμενον· οὐδαμοῦ τῆς τῶν + φύσεων διαφορᾶς ἀνῃρημένης διὰ τὴν ἕνωσιν, σωζομένης δὲ μᾶλλον τῆς ἰδιότητος + ἑκατέρας φύσεως καὶ εἰς ἓν πρόσωπον καὶ μίαν ὑπὸστασιν συντρεχούσης, οὐκ εἰς + δύο πρόσωπα μεριζόμενον ἢ διαιρούμενον, ἀλλ᾽ ἕνα καὶ τὸν αὐτὸν υἱὸν καὶ + μονογενῆ, θεὸν λόγον, κύριον Ἰησοῦν Χριστόν· καθάπερ ἄνωθεν οἱ προφῆται περὶ + αὐτοῦ καὶ αὐτὸς ἡμᾶς ὁ κύριος Ιησοῦς Χριστὸς ἐξεπαίδευσε καὶ τὸ τῶν πατέρων + ἡμῖν καραδέδωκε σύμβολον. + +... diff --git a/data/ancient-church/nicene-creed.yaml b/data/ancient-church/nicene-creed.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..b2e40f5c1a3af90d72d23ae6bab3cbb1734503ab --- /dev/null +++ b/data/ancient-church/nicene-creed.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,152 @@ +--- +name: The Nicene Creed +publication_year: 381 +type: creed +image: nicene-creed.jpg +markdown: true +text: | + + We believe in one God[a], the Father Almighty[b], Maker of heaven and + earth[c], and of all things visible and invisible[d]. + + And in one Lord Jesus Christ[e], the only-begotten Son of God, begotten of the + Father before all worlds[f]; God of God, Light of Light, very God of very God; + begotten, not made[g], being of one substance with the Father[h], by whom all + things were made[i]. + + Who, for us men and for our salvation, came down from heaven[j], and was + incarnate by the Holy Spirit of the virgin Mary, and was made man[k]; and was + crucified also for us under Pontius Pilate[l]; He suffered and was buried; and + the third day He rose again, according to the Scriptures[m]; and ascended into + heaven, and sits on the right hand of the Father[n]; and He shall come again, + with glory, to judge the quick and the dead; whose kingdom shall have no + end.[o] + + And we believe in the Holy Ghost, the Lord and Giver of Life[p]; who proceeds + from the Father and the Son; who with the Father and the Son together is + worshipped and glorified; who spoke by the prophets[q]. + + And we believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church.[r] We acknowledge + one baptism for the remission of sins[s]; and we look for the resurrection of + the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.[t] + +verses: + a: + - Exod.20.2-Exod.20.3 + - Mark.12.29-Mark.12.31 + b: + - Eph.4.6 + - Mal.2.10 + - Gen.35.11 + c: + - Gen.1.1 + - Isa.44.24 + d: + - Col.1.16 + - Rom.1.20 + e: + - 2Cor.1.3 + - 1Thess.1.1 + - Rom.13.14 + f: + - John.3.16 + - Heb.1.6 + - Matt.14.33 + - Rev.1.8 + g: + - John.1.1 + - 1John.1.5 + - John.8.12 + - John.20.28 + - 1John.5.20 + - Ps.2.7 + - Heb.1.5 + - John.14.9 + h: + - John.10.30 + - Isa.44.6 + - Rev.1.8 + - Phil.2.6 + - John.10.38 + - Col.2.9 + i: + - John.1.1-John.1.3 + - John.1.10 + - John.1.14 + - Eph.3.9 + - 1Cor.8.6 + - Col.1.15-Col.1.17 + j: + - 1Thess.5.9 + - Acts.4.12 + - 2Tim.3.15 + - John.6.51 + - John.6.38 + k: + - Matt.1.18 + - Luke.1.27 + - Luke.1.35 + - Phil.2.6-Phil.2.7 + - Rom.1.3 + l: + - Acts.2.36 + - Matt.27.2 + - Matt.27.26 + - Mark.15.15 + m: + - Matt.16.21 + - Mark.15.46 + - Luke.24.5-Luke.24.7 + - 1Cor.15.3-1Cor.15.4 + n: + - John.20.17 + - 1Tim.3.16 + - 1Pet.3.21-1Pet.3.22 + - Acts.1.9 + - Mark.16.19 + o: + - Acts.1.10-Acts.1.11 + - Rev.1.7 + - John.5.22 + - Acts.10.42 + - Luke.1.33 + p: + - John.14.17 + - 2Cor.3.17 + - Acts.5.3-Acts.5.4 + - John.3.5 + - Titus.3.5 + q: + - John.15.26 + - Luke.11.13 + - Matt.28.19 + - 2Pet.1.21 + r: + - John.17.20-John.17.23 + - Eph.4.1-Eph.4.6 + - Col.1.18 + - Heb.12.23 + - Rev.21.27 + - Phil.4.3 + - Matt.18.20 + - Phlm.1.2 + - Rom.16.5 + - 1Tim.3.15 + - Eph.2.20 + - Acts.2.42 + s: + - Matt.28.18-Matt.28.19 + - Eph.4.5 + - Gal.3.27 + - Matt.26.28 + - Luke.24.47 + - Acts.2.38 + - 1Pet.3.21 + - Rom.6.3-Rom.6.4 + t: + - 1Cor.15.12 + - 1Cor.15.21-1Cor.15.22 + - John.3.16 + - 1Cor.2.9 + - Rom.11.36 +... diff --git a/data/anglican/39-articles.yaml b/data/anglican/39-articles.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..3ebed7fb272f62a0730720e820c1b03815d21ee5 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/anglican/39-articles.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,529 @@ +--- +name: Thirty-nine Articles of Religion +publication_year: 1571 +type: confession +markdown: true +chapters: + - name: Of Faith in the Holy Trinity. + number: 1 + text: > + There is but one living and true God, everlasting, without body, parts, or + passions; of infinite power, wisdom, and goodness; the Maker, and + Preserver of all things both visible and invisible. And in unity of this + Godhead there be three Persons, of one substance, power, and eternity; the + Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. + + - name: Of the Word or Son of God, which was made very Man. + number: 2 + text: > + The Son, which is the Word of the Father, begotten from everlasting of the + Father, the very and eternal God, and of one substance with the Father, + took Man's nature in the womb of the blessed Virgin, of her substance: so + that two whole and perfect Natures, that is to say, the Godhead and + Manhood, were joined together in one Person, never to be divided, whereof + is one Christ, very God, and very Man; who truly suffered, was crucified, + dead and buried, to reconcile his Father to us, and to be a sacrifice, not + only for original guilt, but also for all actual sins of men. + + - name: Of the going down of Christ into Hell. + number: 3 + text: > + As Christ died for us, and was buried, so also is it to be believed, that + he went down into Hell. + + - name: Of the Resurrection of Christ. + number: 4 + text: > + Christ did truly rise again from death, and took again his body, with + flesh, bones, and all things appertaining to the perfection of Man's + nature; wherewith he ascended into Heaven, and there sitteth, until he + return to judge all Men at the last day. + + - name: Of the Holy Ghost. + number: 5 + text: > + The Holy Ghost, proceeding from the Father and the Son, is of one + substance, majesty, and glory, with the Father and the Son, very and + eternal God. + + - name: Of the Sufficiency of the holy Scriptures for salvation. + number: 6 + text: | + Holy Scripture containeth all things necessary to salvation: so that + whatsoever is not read therein, nor may be proved thereby, is not to be + required of any man, that it should be believed as an article of the + Faith, or be thought requisite or necessary to salvation. In the name of + the holy Scripture we do understand those Canonical Books of the Old and + New Testament, of whose authority was never any doubt in the Church. + + Of the Names and Number of the Canonical Books + + Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, + The First Book of Samuel, The Second Book of Samuel, The First Book of + Kings, The Second Book of Kings, The First Book of Chronicles, The Second + Book of Chronicles, The First Book of Esdras [Ezra], The Second Book of + Esdras [Nehemiah], The Book of Esther, The Book of Job, The Psalms, The + Proverbs, Ecclesiastes or Preacher, Cantica, or Songs of Solomon, Four + Prophets the greater, Twelve Prophets the less. + + And the other Books (as Hierome saith) the Church doth read for example of + life and instruction of manners; but yet doth it not apply them to + establish any doctrine; such are these following: + + The Third Book of Esdras [I Esdras], The Fourth Book of Esdras [II + Esdras], The Book of Tobias, The Book of Judith, The rest of the Book of + Esther, The Book of Wisdom, Jesus the Son of Sirach [or Ecclesiasticus], + Baruch the Prophet, The Song of the Three Children, The Story of Susanna, + Of Bel and the Dragon, The Prayer of Manasses, The First Book of + Maccabees, The Second Book of Maccabees. All the Books of the New + Testament, as they are commonly received, we do receive, and account them + Canonical. + + - name: Of the Old Testament. + number: 7 + text: > + The Old Testament is not contrary to the New: for both in the Old and New + Testament everlasting life is offered to Mankind by Christ, who is the + only Mediator between God and Man, being both God and Man. Wherefore they + are not to be heard, which feign that the old Fathers did look only for + transitory promises. Although the Law given from God by Moses, as touching + Ceremonies and Rites, do not bind Christian men, nor the Civil precepts + thereof ought of necessity to be received in any commonwealth; yet + notwithstanding, no Christian man whatsoever is free from the obedience of + the Commandments which are called Moral. + + - name: Of the Creeds. + number: 8 + text: > + The Three Creeds, Nicene Creed, Athanasius's Creed, and that which is + commonly called the Apostles' Creed, ought thoroughly to be received and + believed: for they may be proved by most certain warrants of holy + Scripture. + + - name: Of Original or Birth-sin. + number: 9 + text: > + Original Sin standeth not in the following of Adam, (as the Pelagians do + vainly talk;) but it is the fault and corruption of the Nature of every + man, that naturally is ingendered of the offspring of Adam; whereby man is + very far gone from original righteousness, and is of his own nature + inclined to evil, so that the flesh lusteth always contrary to the spirit; + and therefore in every person born into this world, it deserveth God's + wrath and damnation. And this infection of nature doth remain, yea in them + that are regenerated; whereby the lust of the flesh, called in the Greek, + φρονημα σαρκος, which some do expound the wisdom, some sensuality, some + the affection, some the desire, of the flesh, is not subject to the Law of + God. And although there is no condemnation for them that believe and are + baptized, yet the Apostle doth confess, that concupiscence and lust hath + of itself the nature of sin. + + - name: Of Free-Will. + number: 10 + text: > + The condition of Man after the fall of Adam is such, that he cannot turn + and prepare himself, by his own natural strength and good works, to faith, + and calling upon God: Wherefore we have no power to do good works pleasant + and acceptable to God, without the grace of God by Christ preventing us, + that we may have a good will, and working with us, when we have that good + will. + + - name: Of the Justification of Man. + number: 11 + text: > + We are accounted righteous before God, only for the merit of our Lord and + Saviour Jesus Christ by Faith, and not for our own works or deservings: + Wherefore, that we are justified by Faith only is a most wholesome + Doctrine, and very full of comfort, as more largely is expressed in the + Homily of Justification. + + - name: Of Good Works. + number: 12 + text: > + Albeit that Good Works, which are the fruits of Faith, and follow after + Justification, cannot put away our sins, and endure the severity of God's + Judgement; yet are they pleasing and acceptable to God in Christ, and do + spring out necessarily of a true and lively Faith; insomuch that by them a + lively Faith may be as evidently known as a tree discerned by the fruit. + + - name: Of Works before Justification. + number: 13 + text: > + Works done before the grace of Christ, and the Inspiration of his Spirit, + are not pleasant to God, forasmuch as they spring not of faith in Jesus + Christ, neither do they make men meet to receive grace, or (as the + School-authors say) deserve grace of congruity: yea rather, for that they + are not done as God hath willed and commanded them to be done, we doubt + not but they have the nature of sin. + + - name: Of Works of Supererogation. + number: 14 + text: > + Voluntary Works besides, over and above, God's Commandments, which they + call Works of Supererogation, cannot be taught without arrogancy and + impiety: for by them men do declare, that they do not only render unto God + as much as they are bound to do, but that they do more for his sake, than + of bounden duty is required: whereas Christ saith plainly, When ye have + done all that are commanded to you, say, We are unprofitable servants. + + - name: Of Christ alone without Sin. + number: 15 + text: > + Christ in the truth of our nature was made like unto us in all things, sin + only except, from which he was clearly void, both in his flesh, and in his + spirit. He came to be the Lamb without spot, who, by sacrifice of himself + once made, should take away the sins of the world, and sin, as Saint John + saith, was not in him. But all we the rest, although baptized, and born + again in Christ, yet offend in many things; and if we say we have no sin, + we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. + + - name: Of Sin after Baptism. + number: 16 + text: > + Not every deadly sin willingly committed after Baptism is sin against the + Holy Ghost, and unpardonable. Wherefore the grant of repentance is not to + be denied to such as fall into sin after Baptism. After we have received + the Holy Ghost, we may depart from grace given, and fall into sin, and by + the grace of God we may arise again, and amend our lives. And therefore + they are to be condemned, which say, they can no more sin as long as they + live here, or deny the place of forgiveness to such as truly repent. + + - name: Of Predestination and Election. + number: 17 + text: | + Predestination to Life is the everlasting purpose of God, whereby (before + the foundations of the world were laid) he hath constantly decreed by his + counsel secret to us, to deliver from curse and damnation those whom he + hath chosen in Christ out of mankind, and to bring them by Christ to + everlasting salvation, as vessels made to honour. Wherefore, they which be + endued with so excellent a benefit of God be called according to God's + purpose by his Spirit working in due season: they through Grace obey the + calling: they be justified freely: they be made sons of God by adoption: + they be made like the image of his only-begotten Son Jesus Christ: they + walk religiously in good works, and at length, by God's mercy, they attain + to everlasting felicity. + + As the godly consideration of Predestination, and our Election in Christ, + is full of sweet, pleasant, and unspeakable comfort to godly persons, and + such as feel in themselves the working of the Spirit of Christ, mortifying + the works of the flesh, and their earthly members, and drawing up their + mind to high and heavenly things, as well because it doth greatly + establish and confirm their faith of eternal Salvation to be enjoyed + through Christ, as because it doth fervently kindle their love towards + God: So, for curious and carnal persons, lacking the Spirit of Christ, to + have continually before their eyes the sentence of God's Predestination, + is a most dangerous downfall, whereby the Devil doth thrust them either + into desperation, or into wretchlessness of most unclean living, no less + perilous than desperation. + + Furthermore, we must receive God's promises in such wise, as they be + generally set forth to us in holy Scripture: and, in our doings, that Will + of God is to be followed, which we have expressly declared unto us in the + Word of God. + + - name: Of obtaining eternal Salvation only by the Name of Christ. + number: 18 + text: > + They also are to be had accursed that presume to say, That every man shall + be saved by the Law or Sect which he professeth, so that he be diligent to + frame his life according to that Law, and the light of Nature. For holy + Scripture doth set out unto us only the Name of Jesus Christ, whereby men + must be saved. + + - name: Of the Church. + number: 19 + text: | + The visible Church of Christ is a congregation of faithful men, in the + which the pure Word of God is preached, and the Sacraments be duly + ministered according to Christ's ordinance in all those things that of + necessity are requisite to the same. + + As the Church of Jerusalem, Alexandria, and Antioch, have erred; so also + the Church of Rome hath erred, not only in their living and manner of + Ceremonies, but also in matters of Faith. + + - name: Of the Authority of the Church. + number: 20 + text: > + The Church hath power to decree Rites or Ceremonies, and authority in + Controversies of Faith: And yet it is not lawful for the Church to ordain + any thing that is contrary to God's Word written, neither may it so + expound one place of Scripture, that it be repugnant to + another. Wherefore, although the Church be a witness and a keeper of holy + Writ, yet, as it ought not to decree any thing against the same, so + besides the same ought it not to enforce any thing to be believed for + necessity of Salvation. + + - name: Of the Authority of General Councils. + number: 21 + text: > + General Councils may not be gathered together without the commandment and + will of Princes. And when they be gathered together, (forasmuch as they be + an assembly of men, whereof all be not governed with the Spirit and Word + of God,) they may err, and sometimes have erred, even in things pertaining + unto God. Wherefore things ordained by them as necessary to salvation have + neither strength nor authority, unless it may be declared that they be + taken out of holy Scripture. + + - name: Of Purgatory. + number: 22 + text: > + The Romish Doctrine concerning Purgatory, Pardons, Worshipping and + Adoration, as well of Images as of Reliques, and also invocation of + Saints, is a fond thing vainly invented, and grounded upon no warranty of + Scripture, but rather repugnant to the Word of God. + + - name: Of Ministering in the Congregation. + number: 23 + text: > + It is not lawful for any man to take upon him the office of public + preaching, or ministering the Sacraments in the Congregation, before he be + lawfully called, and sent to execute the same. And those we ought to judge + lawfully called and sent, which be chosen and called to this work by men + who have public authority given unto them in the Congregation, to call and + send Ministers into the Lord's vineyard. + + - name: Of speaking in the Congregation in such a tongue as the people understandeth. + number: 24 + text: > + It is a thing plainly repugnant to the Word of God, and the custom of the + Primitive Church, to have public Prayer in the Church, or to minister the + Sacraments in a tongue not understanded of the people. + + - name: Of the Sacraments. + number: 25 + text: | + Sacraments ordained of Christ be not only badges or tokens of Christian + men's profession, but rather they be certain sure witnesses, and effectual + signs of grace, and God's good will towards us, by the which he doth work + invisibly in us, and doth not only quicken, but also strengthen and + confirm our Faith in him. + + There are two Sacraments ordained of Christ our Lord in the Gospel, that + is to say, Baptism, and the Supper of the Lord. + + Those five commonly called Sacraments, that is to say, Confirmation, + Penance, Orders, Matrimony, and extreme Unction, are not to be counted for + Sacraments of the Gospel, being such as have grown partly of the corrupt + following of the Apostles, partly are states of life allowed in the + Scriptures; but yet have not like nature of Sacraments with Baptism, and + the Lord's Supper, for that they have not any visible sign or ceremony + ordained of God. + + The Sacraments were not ordained of Christ to be gazed upon, or to be + carried about, but that we should duly use them. And in such only as + worthily receive the same they have a wholesome effect or operation: but + they that receive them unworthily purchase to themselves damnation, as + Saint Paul saith. + + - name: Of the Unworthiness of the Ministers, which hinders not the effect of the Sacraments. + number: 26 + text: | + Although in the visible Church the evil be ever mingled with the good, and + sometimes the evil have chief authority in the Ministration of the Word + and Sacraments, yet forasmuch as they do not the same in their own name, + but in Christ's, and do minister by his commission and authority, we may + use their Ministry, both in hearing the Word of God, and in receiving of + the Sacraments. Neither is the effect of Christ's ordinance taken away by + their wickedness, nor the grace of God's gifts diminished from such as by + faith and rightly do receive the Sacraments ministered unto them; which be + effectual, because of Christ's institution and promise, although they be + ministered by evil men. + + Nevertheless, it appertaineth to the discipline of the Church, that + inquiry be made of evil Ministers, and that they be accused by those that + have knowledge of their offences; and finally being found guilty, by just + judgement be deposed. + + - name: Of Baptism. + number: 27 + text: > + Baptism is not only a sign of profession, and mark of difference, whereby + Christian men are discerned from others that be not christened, but it is + also a sign of Regeneration or new Birth, whereby, as by an instrument, + they that receive Baptism rightly are grafted into the Church; the + promises of forgiveness of sin, and of our adoption to be the sons of God + by the Holy Ghost, are visibly signed and sealed; Faith is confirmed, and + Grace increased by virtue of prayer unto God. The Baptism of young + Children is in any wise to be retained in the Church, as most agreeable + with the institution of Christ. + + - name: Of the Lord's Supper. + number: 28 + text: | + The Supper of the Lord is not only a sign of the love that Christians + ought to have among themselves one to another; but rather is a Sacrament + of our Redemption by Christ's death: insomuch that to such as rightly, + worthily, and with faith, receive the same, the Bread which we break is a + partaking of the Body of Christ; and likewise the Cup of Blessing is a + partaking of the Blood of Christ. + + Transubstantiation (or the change of the substance of Bread and Wine) in + the Supper of the Lord, cannot be proved by holy Writ; but is repugnant to + the plain words of Scripture, overthroweth the nature of a Sacrament, and + hath given occasion to many superstitions. + + The Body of Christ is given, taken, and eaten, in the Supper, only after + an heavenly and spiritual manner. And the mean whereby the Body of Christ + is received and eaten in the Supper is Faith. + + The Sacrament of the Lord's Supper was not by Christ's ordinance reserved, + carried about, lifted up, or worshipped. + + - name: Of the Wicked which eat not the Body of Christ in the use of the Lord's Supper. + number: 29 + text: > + The Wicked, and such as be void of a lively faith, although they do + carnally and visibly press with their teeth (as Saint Augustine saith) the + Sacrament of the Body and Blood of Christ, yet in no wise are they + partakers of Christ: but rather, to their condemnation, do eat and drink + the sign or Sacrament of so great a thing. + + - name: Of both kinds. + number: 30 + text: > + The Cup of the Lord is not to be denied to the Lay-people: for both the + parts of the Lord's Sacrament, by Christ's ordinance and commandment, + ought to be ministered to all Christian men alike. + + - name: Of the one Oblation of Christ finished upon the Cross. + number: 31 + text: > + The Offering of Christ once made is that perfect redemption, propitiation, + and satisfaction, for all the sins of the whole world, both original and + actual; and there is none other satisfaction for sin, but that + alone. Wherefore the sacrifices of Masses, in the which it was commonly + said, that the Priest did offer Christ for the quick and the dead, to have + remission of pain or guilt, were blasphemous fables, and dangerous + deceits. + + - name: Of the Marriage of Priests. + number: 32 + text: > + Bishops, Priests, and Deacons, are not commanded by God's Law, either to + vow the estate of single life, or to abstain from marriage: therefore it + is lawful for them, as for all other Christian men, to marry at their own + discretion, as they shall judge the same to serve better to godliness. + + - name: Of excommunicate Persons, how they are to be avoided. + number: 33 + text: > + That person which by open denunciation of the Church is rightly cut off + from the unity of the Church, and excommunicated, ought to be taken of the + whole multitude of the faithful, as an Heathen and Publican, until he be + openly reconciled by penance, and received into the Church by a judge that + hath authority thereunto. + + - name: Of the Traditions of the Church. + number: 34 + text: | + It is not necessary that Traditions and Ceremonies be in all places one, + and utterly like; for at all times they have been divers, and may be + changed according to the diversities of countries, times, and men's + manners, so that nothing be ordained against God's Word. Whosoever + through his private judgement, willingly and purposely, doth openly break + the traditions and ceremonies of the Church, which be not repugnant to the + Word of God, and be ordained and approved by common authority, ought to be + rebuked openly, (that others may fear to do the like,) as he that + offendeth against the common order of the Church, and hurteth the + authority of the Magistrate, and woundeth the consciences of the weak + brethren. + + Every particular or national Church hath authority to ordain, change, and + abolish, ceremonies or rites of the Church ordained only by man's + authority, so that all things be done to edifying. + + - name: Of the Homilies. + number: 35 + text: | + The second Book of Homilies, the several titles whereof we have joined + under this Article, doth contain a godly and wholesome Doctrine, and + necessary for these times, as doth the former Book of Homilies, which were + set forth in the time of Edward the Sixth; and therefore we judge them to + be read in Churches by the Ministers, diligently and distinctly, that they + may be understanded of the people. + + Of the Names of the Homilies. + + 1. Of the right Use of the Church. + 2. Against Peril of Idolatry. + 3. Of repairing and keeping clean of Churches. + 4. Of good Works: first of Fasting. + 5. Against Gluttony and Drunkenness. + 6. Against Excess of Apparel + 7. Of Prayer. + 8. Of the Place and Time of Prayer. + 9. That Common Prayers and Sacraments ought to be ministered in a known tongue. + 10. Of the reverend Estimation of God's Word. + 11. Of Alms-doing. + 12. Of the Nativity of Christ. + 13. Of the Passion of Christ. + 14. Of the Resurrection of Christ. + 15. Of the worthy receiving of the Sacrament of the Body and Blood of Christ. + 16. Of the Gifts of the Holy Ghost. + 17. For the Rogation-days. + 18. Of the State of Matrimony. + 19. Of Repentance. + 20. Against Idleness. + 21. Against Rebellion. + + - name: Of Consecration of Bishops and Ministers. + number: 36 + text: > + The Book of Consecration of Archbishops and Bishops, and Ordering of + Priests and Deacons, lately set forth in the time of Edward the Sixth, and + confirmed at the same time by authority of Parliament, doth contain all + things necessary to such Consecration and Ordering: neither hath it any + thing, that of itself is superstitious and ungodly. And therefore + whosoever are consecrated or ordered according to the Rites of that Book, + since the second year of the forenamed King Edward unto this time, or + hereafter shall be consecrated or ordered according to the same Rites; we + decree all such to be rightly, orderly, and lawfully consecrated and + ordered. + + - name: Of the Civil Magistrates. + number: 37 + text: | + + The King's Majesty hath the chief power in this Realm of England, and + other his Dominions, unto whom the chief Government of all Estates of this + Realm, whether they be Ecclesiastical or Civil, in all causes doth + appertain, and is not, nor ought to be, subject to any foreign + Jurisdiction. + + Where we attribute to the King's Majesty the chief government, by which + Titles we understand the minds of some slanderous folks to be offended; we + give not to our Princes the ministering either of God's Word, or of the + Sacraments, the which thing the Injunctions also lately set forth by + Elizabeth our Queen do most plainly testify; but that only prerogative, + which we see to have been given always to all godly Princes in holy + Scriptures by God himself; that is, that they should rule all estates and + degrees committed to their charge by God, whether they be Ecclesiastical + or Temporal, and restrain with the civil sword the stubborn and evil + doers. + + The Bishop of Rome hath no jurisdiction in this Realm of England. + + The Laws of the Realm may punish Christian men with death, for heinous and + grievous offences. + + It is lawful for Christian men, at the commandment of the Magistrate, to + wear weapons, and serve in the wars. + + - name: Of Christian Men's Goods, which are not common. + number: 38 + text: > + The Riches and Goods of Christians are not common, as touching the right, + title, and possession of the same, as certain Anabaptists do falsely + boast. Notwithstanding, every man ought, of such things as he possesseth, + liberally to give alms to the poor, according to his ability. + + - name: Of a Christian Man's Oath. + number: 39 + text: > + As we confess that vain and rash Swearing is forbidden Christian men by + our Lord Jesus Christ, and James his Apostle, so we judge, that Christian + Religion doth not prohibit, but that a man may swear when the Magistrate + requireth, in a cause of faith and charity, so it be done according to the + Prophet's teaching, in justice, judgement, and truth. + +... diff --git a/data/british/savoy.yaml b/data/british/savoy.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..09a5eb0a60741974863933fdf659d5a6f9140f8d --- /dev/null +++ b/data/british/savoy.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,3558 @@ +--- +name: Savoy Declaration of Faith +publication_year: 1658 +type: confession +chapters: + - name: Of the Holy Scripture + number: 1 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Although the light of nature, and the works of creation and providence, + do so far manifest the goodness, wisdom, and power of God, as to leave men + inexcusable;[a] yet are they not sufficient to give that knowledge of God, + and of his will, which is necessary unto salvation;[b] therefore it pleased + the Lord, at sundry times, and in divers manners, to reveal himself, and + to declare that his will unto his Church;[c] and afterwards, for the better + preserving and propagating of the truth, and for the more sure establishment + and comfort of the Church against the corruption of the flesh, and the malice + of Satan and of the world, to commit the same wholly unto writing;[d] which + maketh the holy Scripture to be most necessary;[e] those former ways of + God's revealing his will unto his people being now ceased.[f] + verses: + a: + - Ps.19.1-Ps.19.3 + - Rom.1.19-Rom.1.20 + - Rom.1.32 + - Rom.2.1 + - Rom.2.14-Rom.2.15 + b: + - 1Cor.1.21 + - 1Cor.2.13-1Cor.2.14 + c: + - Heb.1.1 + d: + - Prov.22.19-Prov.22.21 + - Isa.8.19-Isa.8.20 + - Matt.4.4 + - Matt.4.7 + - Matt.4.10 + - Luke.1.3-Luke.1.4 + - Rom.15.4 + e: + - 2Tim.3.15 + - 2Pet.1.19 + f: + - Heb.1.1-Heb.1.2 + - number: 2 + text: > + Under the name of holy Scripture, or the Word of God written, are now contained + all the books of the Old and New Testaments, which are these: Of the Old + Testament: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, + Ruth, 1 Samuel, 2 Samuel, 1 Kings, 2 Kings, 1 Chronicles, 2 Chronicles, + Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, The Song of + Songs, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, + Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi; + Of the New Testament: The Gospels according to Matthew, Mark, Luke, John. + The Acts of the Apostles, Paul's Epistles to the Romans, 1 Corinthians, + Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians, + 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, The Epistle to the Hebrews, The Epistle + of James, The First and Second Epistles of Peter, The First, Second, and + Third Epistles of John, The Epistle of Jude, The Revelation. All which are + given by inspiration of God, to be the rule of faith and life.[a] + verses: + a: + - Luke.16.29 + - Luke.16.31 + - Eph.2.20 + - 2Tim.3.16 + - Rev.22.18-Rev.22.19 + - number: 3 + text: > + The books commonly called Apocrypha, not being of divine inspiration, are + no part of the Canon of the Scripture; and therefore are of no authority + in the Church of God, nor to be any otherwise approved, or made use of, + than other human writings.[a] + verses: + a: + - Luke.24.27 + - Luke.24.44 + - Rom.3.2 + - 2Pet.1.21 + - number: 4 + text: > + The authority of the holy Scripture, for which it ought to be believed and + obeyed, dependeth not upon the testimony of any man or church, but wholly + upon God (who is truth itself), the Author thereof; and therefore it is + to be received, because it is the Word of God.[a] + verses: + a: + - 1Thess.2.13 + - 2Tim.3.16 + - 2Pet.1.19 + - 2Pet.1.21 + - 1John.5.9 + - number: 5 + text: > + We may be moved and induced by the testimony of the Church to an high and + reverent esteem of the holy Scripture;[a] and the heavenliness of the matter, + the efficacy of the doctrine, the majesty of the style, the consent of all + the parts, the scope of the whole (which is to give all glory to God), the + full discovery it makes of the only way of man's salvation, the many other + incomparable excellencies, and the entire perfection thereof, are arguments + whereby it doth abundantly evidence itself to be the Word of God; yet, notwithstanding, + our full persuasion and assurance of the infallible truth, and divine authority + thereof, is from the inward work of the Holy Spirit, bearing witness by + and with the Word in our hearts.[b] + verses: + a: + - 1Tim.3.15 + b: + - Isa.59.21 + - John.16.13-John.16.14 + - 1Cor.2.10-1Cor.2.12 + - 1John.2.20 + - 1John.2.27 + - number: 6 + text: > + The whole counsel of God, concerning all things necessary for his own glory, + man's salvation, faith, and life, is either expressly set down in Scripture, + or by good and necessary consequence may be deduced from Scripture: unto + which nothing at any time is to be added, whether by new revelations of + the Spirit, or traditions of men.[a] Nevertheless we acknowledge the inward + illumination of the Spirit of God to be necessary for the saving understanding + of such things as are revealed in the Word;[b] and that there are some circumstances + concerning the worship of God, and government of the Church, common to human + actions and societies, which are to be ordered by the light of nature and + Christian prudence, according to the general rules of the Word, which are + always to be observed.[c] + verses: + a: + - Gal.1.8-Gal.1.9 + - 2Thess.2.2 + - 2Tim.3.15-2Tim.3.17 + b: + - John.6.45 + - 1Cor.2.9-1Cor.2.12 + c: + - 1Cor.11.13-1Cor.11.14 + - 1Cor.14.26 + - 1Cor.14.40 + - number: 7 + text: > + All things in Scripture are not alike plain in themselves, nor alike clear + unto all;[a] yet those things which are necessary to be known, believed, + and observed, for salvation, are so clearly propounded and opened in some + place of Scripture or other, that not only the learned, but the unlearned, + in a due use of the ordinary means, may attain unto a sufficient understanding + of them.[b] + verses: + a: + - 2Pet.3.16 + b: + - Ps.119.105 + - Ps.119.130 + - number: 8 + text: > + The Old Testament in Hebrew (which was the native language of the people + of God of old), and the New Testament in Greek (which at the time of the + writing of it was most generally known to the nations), being immediately + inspired by God, and by his singular care and providence kept pure in all + ages, are therefore authentical;[a] so as in all controversies of religion + the Church is finally to appeal unto them.[b] But because these original + tongues are not known to all the people of God who have right unto, and + interest in the Scriptures, and are commanded, in the fear of God, to read + and search them,[c] therefore they are to be translated into the vulgar + language of every nation unto which they come,[d] that the Word of God dwelling + plentifully in all, they may worship him in an acceptable manner,[e] and, + through patience and comfort of the Scriptures, may have hope.[f] + verses: + a: + - Matt.5.18 + b: + - Isa.8.20 + - John.5.39 + - John.5.46 + - Acts.15.15 + c: + - John.5.39 + d: + - 1Cor.14.6 + - 1Cor.14.9 + - 1Cor.14.11-1Cor.14.12 + - 1Cor.14.24 + - 1Cor.14.27-1Cor.14.28 + e: + - Col.3.16 + f: + - Rom.15.4 + - number: 9 + text: > + The infallible rule of interpretation of Scripture is the Scripture itself; + and therefore, when there is a question about the true and full sense of + any scripture (which is not manifold, but one), it must be searched and + known by other places that speak more clearly.[a] + verses: + a: + - Acts.15.15 + - 2Pet.1.20-2Pet.1.21 + - number: 10 + text: > + The Supreme Judge, by which all controversies of religion are to be determined, + and all decrees of councils, opinions of ancient writers, doctrines of men, + and private spirits, are to be examined, and in whose sentence we are to + rest, can be no other but the holy Scripture delivered by the Spirit; + into which Scripture so delivered, our faith is finally resolved.[a] + verses: + a: + - Matt.22.29 + - Matt.22.31 + - Eph.2.20 + - Acts.28.25 + - name: Of God, and of the Holy Trinity + number: 2 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + There is but one only[a] living and true God,[b] who is infinite in being + and perfection,[c] a most pure spirit,[d] invisible,[e] without body, parts,[f] + or passions,[g] immutable,[h] immense,[i] eternal,[k] incomprehensible,[l] + almighty,[m] most wise,[n] most holy,[o] most free,[p] most absolute,[q] + working all things according to the counsel of his own immutable and most + righteous will,[r] for his own glory;[s] most loving,[t] gracious, merciful, + long-suffering, abundant in goodness and truth, forgiving iniquity, transgression, + and sin;[u] the rewarder of them that diligently seek him;[w] and withal + most just and terrible in his judgments;[x] hating all sin,[y] and who will + by no means clear the guilty.[z] + verses: + a: + - Deut.6.4 + - 1Cor.8.4 + - 1Cor.8.6 + b: + - Jer.10.10 + - 1Thess.1.9 + c: + - Job.11.7-Job.11.9 + - Job.26.14 + d: + - John.4.24 + e: + - 1Tim.1.17 + f: + - Deut.4.15-Deut.4.16 + - John.4.24 + - Luke.24.39 + g: + - Acts.14.11 + - Acts.14.15 + h: + - Mal.3.6 + - Jas.1.17 + i: + - 1Kgs.8.27 + - Jer.23.23-Jer.23.24 + k: + - Ps.90.2 + - 1Tim.1.17 + l: + - Ps.145.3 + m: + - Gen.17.1 + - Rev.4.8 + n: + - Rom.16.27 + o: + - Isa.6.3 + - Rev.4.8 + p: + - Ps.115.3 + q: + - Exod.3.14 + r: + - Eph.1.11 + s: + - Prov.16.4 + - Rom.11.36 + t: + - 1John.4.8 + - 1John.4.16 + u: + - Exod.34.6-Exod.34.7 + w: + - Heb.11.6 + x: + - Neh.9.32-Neh.9.33 + y: + - Ps.5.5-Ps.5.6 + z: + - Exod.34.7 + - Nah.1.2-Nah.1.3 + - number: 2 + text: > + God hath all life,[a] glory,[b] goodness,[c] blessedness,[d] in and of himself; + and is alone in and unto himself all-sufficient, not standing in need of + any creatures which he hath made,[e] nor deriving any glory from them,[f] + but only manifesting his own glory in, by, unto, and upon them: he is the + alone fountain of all being, of whom, through whom, and to whom are all + things;[g] and hath most sovereign dominion over them, to do by them, for + them, or upon them whatsoever himself pleaseth.[h] In his sight all things + are open and manifest;[i] his knowledge is infinite, infallible, and independent + upon the creature;[k] so as nothing is to him contingent or uncertain.[l] + He is most holy in all his counsels, in all his works, and in all his commands.[m] + To him is due from angels and men, and every other creature, whatsoever + worship, service, or obedience, as creatures, they owe unto the + Creator, and whatever he is further pleased to require of them.[n] + verses: + a: + - John.5.26 + b: + - Acts.7.2 + c: + - Ps.119.68 + d: + - Rom.9.5 + - 1Tim.6.15 + e: + - Acts.17.24-Acts.17.25 + f: + - Job.22.2-Job.22.3 + g: + - Rom.11.36 + h: + - Dan.4.25 + - Dan.4.35 + - 1Tim.6.15 + - Rev.4.11 + i: + - Heb.4.13 + k: + - Ps.147.5 + - Rom.11.33-Rom.11.34 + l: + - Ezek.11.5 + - Acts.15.18 + m: + - Ps.145.17 + - Rom.7.12 + n: + - Rev.5.12-Rev.5.14 + - number: 3 + text: > + In the unity of the Godhead there be three persons, of one substance, power, + and eternity: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost.[a] The + Father is of none, neither begotten nor proceeding; the Son is eternally + begotten of the Father;[b] the Holy Ghost eternally proceeding from the + Father and the Son.[c] Which doctrine of the Trinity is the foundation + of all our communion with God, and comfortable dependence upon him. + verses: + a: + - Matt.3.16-Matt.3.17 + - Matt.28.19 + - 2Cor.13.14 + - 1John.5.7 + b: + - John.1.14 + - John.1.18 + c: + - John.15.26 + - Gal.4.6 + - name: Of God's Eternal Decree + number: 3 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + God from all eternity did, by the most wise and holy counsel of his own + will, freely and unchangeably ordain whatsoever comes to pass;[a] yet so + as thereby neither is God the author of sin,[b] nor is violence offered + to the will of the creatures, nor is the liberty or contingency of second + causes taken away, but rather established.[c] + verses: + a: + - Rom.9.15 + - Rom.9.18 + - Rom.11.33 + - Eph.1.11 + - Heb.6.17 + b: + - Jas.1.13 + - Jas.1.17 + - 1John.1.5 + c: + - Prov.16.33 + - Matt.17.12 + - John.19.11 + - Acts.2.23 + - Acts.4.27-Acts.4.28 + - number: 2 + text: > + Although God knows whatsoever may or can come to pass upon all supposed + conditions,[a] yet hath he not decreed anything because he foresaw it as + future, or as that which would come to pass upon such conditions.[b] + verses: + a: + - 1Sam.23.11-1Sam.23.12 + - Matt.11.21 + - Matt.11.23 + - Acts.15.18 + b: + - Rom.9.11 + - Rom.9.13 + - Rom.9.16 + - Rom.9.18 + - number: 3 + text: > + By the decree of God, for the manifestation of his glory, some men and angels[a] + are predestinated unto everlasting life, and others fore-ordained to everlasting + death.[b] + verses: + a: + - Matt.25.41 + - 1Tim.5.21 + b: + - Prov.16.4 + - Rom.9.22-Rom.9.23 + - Eph.1.5-Eph.1.6 + - number: 4 + text: > + These angels and men, thus predestinated and fore-ordained, are particularly + and unchangeably designed; and their number is so certain and definite that + it can not be either increased or diminished.[a] + verses: + a: + - John.13.18 + - 2Tim.2.19 + - number: 5 + text: > + Those of mankind that are predestinated unto life, God, before the foundation + of the world was laid, according to his eternal and immutable purpose, and + the secret counsel and good pleasure of his will, hath chosen in Christ, + unto everlasting glory,[a] out of his mere free grace and love, without + any foresight of faith or good works, or perseverance in either of them, + or any other thing in the creature, as conditions, or causes moving him + thereunto;[b] and all to the praise of his glorious grace.[c] + verses: + a: + - Rom.8.30 + - Eph.1.4 + - Eph.1.9 + - Eph.1.11 + - 1Thess.5.9 + - 2Tim.1.9 + b: + - Rom.9.11 + - Rom.9.13 + - Rom.9.16 + - Eph.1.4 + - Eph.1.9 + c: + - Eph.1.6 + - Eph.1.12 + - number: 6 + text: > + As God hath appointed the elect unto glory, so hath he, by the eternal and + most free purpose of his will, fore-ordained all the means thereunto.[a] + Wherefore they who are elected, being fallen in Adam, are redeemed by Christ,[b] + are effectually called unto faith in Christ by his Spirit working in due + season; are justified, adopted, sanctified,[c] and kept by his power through + faith unto salvation.[d] Neither are any other redeemed by Christ, effectually + called, justified, adopted, sanctified, and saved, but the elect only.[e] + verses: + a: + - Eph.1.4-Eph.1.5 + - Eph.2.10 + - 2Thess.2.13 + - 1Pet.1.2 + b: + - 1Thess.5.9-1Thess.5.10 + - Titus.2.14 + c: + - Rom.8.30 + - Eph.1.5 + - 2Thess.2.13 + d: + - 1Pet.1.5 + e: + - John.6.64-John.6.65 + - John.8.47 + - John.10.26 + - John.17.9 + - Rom.8.28-Rom.8.39 + - 1John.2.19 + - number: 7 + text: > + The rest of mankind God was pleased, according to the unsearchable counsel + of his own will, whereby he extendeth or withholdeth mercy as he pleaseth, + for the glory of his sovereign power over his creatures, to pass by, and + to ordain them to dishonor and wrath for their sin, to the praise of his + glorious justice.[a] + verses: + a: + - Matt.11.25-Matt.11.26 + - Rom.9.17-Rom.9.18 + - Rom.9.21-Rom.9.22 + - 2Tim.2.19-2Tim.2.20 + - 1Pet.2.8 + - Jude.1.4 + - number: 8 + text: > + The doctrine of this high mystery of predestination is to be handled with + special prudence and care,[a] that men attending the will of God revealed + in his Word, and yielding obedience thereunto, may, from the certainty of + their effectual vocation, be assured of their eternal election.[b] So shall + this doctrine afford matter of praise, reverence, and admiration of God;[c] + and of humility, diligence, and abundant consolation to all that sincerely + obey the gospel.[d] + verses: + a: + - Deut.29.29 + - Rom.9.20 + b: + - 2Pet.1.10 + c: + - Rom.11.33 + - Eph.1.6 + d: + - Luke.10.20 + - Rom.8.33 + - Rom.11.5-Rom.11.6 + - Rom.11.20 + - 2Pet.1.10 + - name: Of Creation + number: 4 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + It pleased God the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,[a] for the manifestation + of the glory of his eternal power, wisdom, and goodness,[b] in the beginning, + to create or make out of nothing the world, and all things therein, whether + visible or invisible, in the space of six days, and all very good.[c] + verses: + a: + - Gen.1.2 + - Job.26.13 + - Job.33.4 + - John.1.2-John.1.3 + - Heb.1.2 + b: + - Ps.33.5-Ps.33.6 + - Ps.104.24 + - Jer.10.12 + - Rom.1.20 + c: + - Gen.1 + - Acts.17.24 + - Col.1.16 + - Heb.11.3 + - number: 2 + text: > + After God had made all other creatures, he created man, male and female,[a] + with reasonable and immortal souls,[b] endued with knowledge, righteousness, + and true holiness, after his own image,[c] having the law of God written + in their hearts,[d] and power to fulfil it;[e] and yet under a possibility + of transgressing, being left to the liberty of their own will, which was + subject unto change.[f] Beside this law written in their hearts, they received + a command not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil;[g] which + while they kept they were happy in their communion with God, and had dominion + over the creatures.[h] + verses: + a: + - Gen.1.27 + b: + - Gen.2.7 + - Eccl.12.7 + - Matt.10.28 + - Luke.23.43 + c: + - Gen.1.26 + - Eph.4.24 + - Col.3.10 + d: + - Rom.2.14-Rom.2.15 + e: + - Eccl.7.29 + f: + - Gen.3.6 + - Eccl.7.29 + g: + - Gen.2.17 + - Gen.3.8-Gen.3.11 + - Gen.3.23 + h: + - Gen.1.26 + - Gen.1.28 + - name: Of Providence + number: 5 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + God, the great Creator of all things, doth uphold,[a] direct, dispose, and + govern all creatures, actions, and things,[b] from the greatest even to + the least,[c] by his most wise and holy providence,[d] according to his + infallible fore-knowledge[e] and the free and immutable counsel of his own + will,[f] to the praise of the glory of his wisdom, power, justice, goodness, + and mercy.[g] + verses: + a: + - Heb.1.3 + b: + - Ps.135.6 + - Dan.4.34-Dan.4.35 + - Acts.17.25-Acts.17.26 + - Acts.17.28 + - Job.38-Job.41 + c: + - Matt.10.29-Matt.10.31 + d: + - Ps.104.24 + - Ps.145.17 + - Prov.15.3 + e: + - Ps.94.8-Ps.94.11 + - Acts.15.18 + f: + - Ps.33.10-Ps.33.11 + - Eph.1.11 + g: + - Gen.45.7 + - Ps.145.7 + - Isa.63.14 + - Rom.9.17 + - Eph.3.10 + - number: 2 + text: > + Although in relation to the foreknowledge and decree of God, the first cause, + all things come to pass immutably and infallibly,[a] yet by the same providence + he ordereth them to fall out, according to the nature of second causes, + either necessarily, freely, or contingently.[b] + verses: + a: + - Acts.2.23 + b: + - Gen.8.22 + - Exod.21.13 + - Deut.19.5 + - 1Kgs.22.28 + - 1Kgs.22.34 + - Isa.10.6-Isa.10.7 + - Jer.31.35 + - number: 3 + text: > + God, in his ordinary providence, maketh use of means,[a] yet is free to + work without,[b] above,[c] and against them,[d] at his pleasure. + verses: + a: + - Isa.55.10-Isa.55.11 + - Hos.2.21-Hos.2.22 + - Acts.27.31 + - Acts.27.44 + b: + - Job.34.10 + - Hos.1.7 + - Matt.4.4 + c: + - Rom.4.19-Rom.4.21 + d: + - 2Kgs.6.6 + - Dan.3.27 + - number: 4 + text: > + The almighty power, unsearchable wisdom, and infinite goodness of God so + far manifest themselves in his providence, in that his determinate + counsel extendeth itself even to the first fall, and all other sins + of angels and men,[a] and that not by a bare permission,[b] + which also he most wisely and powerfully boundeth, and otherwise + ordereth and governeth in a manifold dispensation, to his own holy + ends;[d] yet so as the sinfulness thereof proceedeth only from the + creature, and not from God; who, being most holy and righteous, + neither is nor can be the author or approver of sin.[e] + verses: + a: + - 2Sam.16.10 + - 2Sam.24.1 + - 1Chr.21.1 + - 1Kgs.22.22-1Kgs.22.23 + - 1Chr.10.4 + - 1Chr.10.13-1Chr.10.14 + - Acts.2.23 + - Acts.4.27-Acts.4.28 + - Rom.11.32-Rom.11.34 + b: + - Acts.14.16 + c: + - 2Kgs.19.28 + - Ps.76.10 + d: + - Gen.50.20 + - Isa.10.6-Isa.10.7 + - Isa.10.12 + e: + - Ps.50.21 + - Jas.1.13-Jas.1.14 + - Jas.1.17 + - 1John.2.16 + - number: 5 + text: > + The most wise, righteous, and gracious God doth oftentimes leave for a season + his own children to manifold temptations and the corruption of their own + hearts, to chastise them for their former sins, or to discover unto them + the hidden strength of corruption and deceitfulness of their hearts, that + they be humbled;[a] and to raise them to a more close and constant dependence + for their support unto himself, and to make them more watchful against all + future occasions of sin, and for sundry other just and holy ends.[b] + verses: + a: + - 2Sam.24.1 + - 2Chr.32.25-2Chr.32.26 + - 2Chr.32.31 + b: + - Ps.73 + - Ps.77.1-Ps.77.10 + - Ps.77.12 + - Mark.14.66-Mark.14.72 + - John.21.15-John.21.17 + - 2Cor.12.7-2Cor.12.9 + - number: 6 + text: > + As for those wicked and ungodly men whom God, as a righteous judge, for + former sins, doth blind and harden,[a] from them he not only withholdeth + his grace, whereby they might have been enlightened in their understandings + and wrought upon in their hearts,[b] but sometimes also withdraweth the + gifts which they had,[c] and exposeth them to such objects as their corruption + makes occasion of sin;[d] and withal, gives them over to their own lusts, + the temptations of the world, and the power of Satan;[e] whereby it comes + to pass that they harden themselves, even under those means which God useth + for the softening of others.[f] + verses: + a: + - Rom.1.24 + - Rom.1.26 + - Rom.1.28 + - Rom.11.7-Rom.11.8 + b: + - Deut.29.4 + c: + - Matt.13.12 + - Matt.25.29 + d: + - Deut.2.30 + - 2Kgs.8.12-2Kgs.8.13 + e: + - Ps.81.11-Ps.81.12 + - 2Thess.2.10-2Thess.2.12 + f: + - Exod.7.3 + - Exod.8.15 + - Exod.8.32 + - Isa.6.9-Isa.6.10 + - Acts.28.26-Acts.28.27 + - Isa.8.14 + - 2Cor.2.15-2Cor.2.16 + - 1Pet.2.7-1Pet.2.8 + - number: 7 + text: > + As the providence of God doth, in general, reach to all creatures, so, after + a most special manner, it taketh care of his Church, and disposeth all things + to the good thereof.[a] + verses: + a: + - Isa.43.3-Isa.43.5 + - Isa.43.14 + - Amos.9.8-Amos.9.9 + - Rom.8.28 + - 1Tim.4.10 + - name: Of the Fall of Man, of Sin, and of the Punishment Thereof + number: 6 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + God having made a covenant of works and life, thereupon, with our + first parents and all their posterity in them, they being seduced by + the subtlety and temptation of Satan did wilfully transgress the law + of their creation, and break the covenant in eating the forbidden + fruit. + verses: {} + - number: 2 + text: > + By this sin they, and we in them, fell from their original + righteousness and communion with God,[a] and so became dead in sin,[b] + and wholly defiled in all the faculties and parts of soul and body.[c] + verses: + a: + - Gen.3.6-Gen.3.8 + - Eccl.7.29 + - Rom.3.23 + b: + - Gen.2.17 + - Eph.2.1 + c: + - Gen.6.5 + - Jer.17.9 + - Rom.3.10-Rom.3.19 + - Titus.1.15 + - number: 3 + text: > + They being the root, and by God's appointment standing in the room and + stead of all mankind, the guilt of this sin was imputed,[a] + and the same death in sin and corrupted nature conveyed to all their posterity + descending from them by ordinary generation.[b] + verses: + a: + - Gen.1.27-Gen.1.28 + - Gen.2.16-Gen.2.17 + - Acts.17.26 + - Rom.5.12 + - Rom.5.15-Rom.5.19 + - 1Cor.15.21-1Cor.15.22 + - 1Cor.15.45 + - 1Cor.15.49 + b: + - Gen.5.3 + - Job.14.4 + - Job.15.14 + - Ps.51.5 + - number: 4 + text: > + From this original corruption, whereby we are utterly indisposed, disabled, + and made opposite to all good,[a] and wholly inclined to all evil,[b] do + proceed all actual transgressions.[c] + verses: + a: + - Rom.5.6 + - Rom.7.18 + - Rom.8.7 + - Col.1.21 + b: + - Gen.6.5 + - Gen.8.21 + - Rom.3.10-Rom.3.12 + c: + - Matt.15.19 + - Eph.2.2-Eph.2.3 + - Jas.1.14-Jas.1.15 + - number: 5 + text: > + This corruption of nature, during this life, doth remain in those that are + regenerated;[a] and although it be through Christ pardoned and mortified, + yet both itself and all the motions thereof are truly and properly sin.[b] + verses: + a: + - Prov.20.9 + - Eccl.7.20 + - Rom.7.14 + - Rom.7.17-Rom.7.18 + - Rom.7.23 + - Jas.3.2 + - 1John.1.8 + - 1John.1.10 + b: + - Rom.7.5 + - Rom.7.7-Rom.7.8 + - Rom.7.25 + - Gal.5.17 + - number: 6 + text: > + Every sin, both original and actual, being a transgression of the righteous + law of God, and contrary thereunto,[a] doth, in its own nature, bring guilt + upon the sinner,[b] whereby he is bound over to the wrath of God[c] and + curse of the law,[d] and so made subject to death,[e] with all miseries + spiritual,[f] temporal,[g] and eternal.[h] + verses: + a: + - 1John.3.4 + b: + - Rom.2.15 + - Rom.3.9 + - Rom.3.19 + c: + - Eph.2.3 + d: + - Gal.3.10 + e: + - Rom.6.23 + f: + - Eph.4.18 + g: + - Lam.3.39 + - Rom.8.20 + h: + - Matt.25.41 + - 2Thess.1.9 + - name: Of God's Covenant with Man + number: 7 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + The distance between God and the creature is so great that although reasonable + creatures do owe obedience unto him as their Creator, yet they could never + have attained the reward of life but by some voluntary + condescension on God's part, which he hath been pleased to express by way + of covenant.[a] + verses: + a: + - 1Sam.2.25 + - Job.9.32-Job.9.33 + - Job.22.2-Job.22.3 + - Job.35.7-Job.35.8 + - Ps.100.2-Ps.100.3 + - Ps.113.5-Ps.113.6 + - Isa.40.13-Isa.40.17 + - Luke.17.10 + - Acts.17.24-Acts.17.25 + - number: 2 + text: > + The first covenant made with man was a covenant of works,[a] wherein life + was promised to Adam, and in him to his posterity,[b] upon condition of + perfect and personal obedience.[c] + verses: + a: + - Gal.3.12 + b: + - Rom.5.12-Rom.5.20 + - Rom.10.5 + c: + - Gen.2.17 + - Gal.3.10 + - number: 3 + text: > + Man by his fall having made himself incapable of life by that covenant, + the Lord was pleased to make a second,[a] commonly called the covenant of + grace: wherein he freely offered unto sinners life and salvation by Jesus + Christ, requiring of them faith in him that they may be saved,[b] and promising + to give unto all those that are ordained unto life his Holy Spirit, to make + them willing and able to believe.[c] + verses: + a: + - Gen.3.15 + - Isa.42.6 + - Rom.3.20-Rom.3.21 + - Rom.8.3 + - Gal.3.21 + b: + - Mark.16.15-Mark.16.16 + - John.3.16 + - Rom.10.6 + - Rom.10.9 + - Gal.3.11 + c: + - Ezek.36.26-Ezek.36.27 + - John.6.44-John.6.45 + - number: 4 + text: > + This covenant of grace is frequently set forth in the Scripture by the name + of a testament, in reference to the death of Jesus Christ the testator, + and to the everlasting inheritance, with all things belonging to it, therein + bequeathed.[a] + verses: + a: + - Luke.22.20 + - 1Cor.11.25 + - Heb.7.22 + - Heb.9.15-Heb.9.17 + - number: 5 + text: > + Although this covenant hath been differently and variously + administered in respect of ordinances and institutions in the time of + the law, and since the coming of Christ in the flesh; yet for the + substance and efficacy of it, to all its spiritual and saving ends, it + is one and the same; upon the account of which various dispensations, + it is called the Old and New Testament. + verses: {} + - name: Of Christ the Mediator + number: 8 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + It pleased God, in his eternal purpose, to choose and ordain the Lord Jesus, + his only-begotten Son, according to a covenant made between them both, + to be the Mediator between God and man,[a] the Prophet,[b] + Priest,[c] and King;[d] the Head and Saviour of his Church,[e] the Heir + of all things,[f] and Judge of the world;[g] unto whom he did, from all + eternity, give a people to be his seed,[h] and to be by him in time redeemed, + called, justified, sanctified, and glorified.[i] + verses: + a: + - Isa.42.1 + - John.3.16 + - 2Tim.2.5 + - 1Pet.1.19-1Pet.1.20 + b: + - Acts.3.22 + c: + - Heb.5.5-Heb.5.6 + d: + - Ps.2.6 + - Luke.1.33 + e: + - Eph.5.23 + f: + - Heb.1.2 + g: + - Acts.17.31 + h: + - Ps.22.30 + - Isa.53.10 + - John.17.6 + i: + - Isa.55.4-Isa.55.5 + - 1Cor.1.30 + - 1Tim.2.6 + - number: 2 + text: > + The Son of God, the second person in the Trinity, being very and eternal + God, of one substance, and equal with the Father, did, when the fulness + of time was come, take upon him man's nature,[a] with all the essential + properties and common infirmities thereof, yet without sin:[b] being conceived + by the power of the Holy Ghost in the womb of the Virgin Mary, of her substance.[c] + So that two whole, perfect, and distinct natures, the Godhead and the manhood, + were inseparably joined together in one person, without conversion, composition, + or confusion.[d] Which person is very God and very man, yet one Christ, + the only mediator between God and man.[e] + verses: + a: + - John.1.1 + - John.1.14 + - Gal.4.4 + - Phil.2.6 + - 1John.5.20 + b: + - Heb.2.14 + - Heb.2.16-Heb.2.17 + - Heb.4.15 + c: + - Luke.1.27 + - Luke.1.31 + - Luke.1.35 + - Gal.4.4 + d: + - Luke.1.35 + - Rom.9.5 + - Col.2.9 + - 1Tim.3.16 + - 1Pet.3.18 + e: + - Rom.1.3-Rom.1.4 + - 1Tim.2.5 + - number: 3 + text: > + The Lord Jesus, in his human nature thus united to the divine + in the Person of the Son, was sanctified + and anointed with the Holy Spirit above measure;[a] having in him all the + treasures of wisdom and knowledge,[b] in whom it pleased the Father that + all fulness should dwell;[c] to the end that, being holy, harmless, undefiled, + and full of grace and truth,[d] he might be thoroughly furnished to execute + the office of a mediator and surety.[e] Which office he took not unto himself, + but was thereunto called by his Father,[f] who put all power and judgment + into his hand, and gave him commandment to execute the same.[g] + verses: + a: + - Ps.45.7 + - John.3.34 + b: + - Col.2.3 + c: + - Col.1.19 + d: + - John.1.14 + - Heb.7.26 + e: + - Acts.10.38 + - Heb.7.22 + - Heb.12.24 + f: + - Heb.5.4-Heb.5.5 + g: + - Matt.28.18 + - John.5.22 + - John.5.27 + - Acts.2.36 + - number: 4 + text: > + This office the Lord Jesus did most willingly undertake,[a] which, that + he might discharge, he was made under the law,[b] and did perfectly fulfill + it;[c] and underwent the punishment due to us, which we should have + borne and suffered, being made sin and a curse for us + enduring most grievous torments immediately from God in his soul,[d] and most + painful sufferings in his body;[e] was crucified, and died;[f] was buried, + and remained under the power of death, yet saw no corruption.[g] On the + third day he arose from the dead,[h] with the same body in which he suffered;[i] + with which also he ascended into heaven, and there sitteth at the right + hand of his Father,[k] making intercession;[l] and shall return to judge + men and angels at the end of the world.[m] + verses: + a: + - Ps.40.7-Ps.40.8 + - Heb.10.5-Heb.10.10 + - John.10.18 + - Phil.2.8 + b: + - Gal.4.4 + c: + - Matt.3.15 + - Matt.5.17 + d: + - Matt.26.37-Matt.26.38 + - Matt.27.46 + - Luke.22.44 + e: + - Matt.26-Matt.27 + f: + - Phil.2.8 + g: + - Acts.2.23-Acts.2.24 + - Acts.2.27 + - Acts.13.37 + - Rom.6.9 + h: + - 1Cor.15.3-1Cor.15.4 + i: + - John.20.25 + - John.20.27 + k: + - Mark.16.19 + l: + - Rom.8.34 + - Heb.7.25 + - Heb.9.24 + m: + - Matt.13.40-Matt.13.42 + - Acts.1.11 + - Acts.10.42 + - Rom.14.9-Rom.14.10 + - 2Pet.2.4 + - Jude.1.6 + - number: 5 + text: > + The Lord Jesus, by his perfect obedience and sacrifice of himself, which + he through the eternal Spirit once offered up unto God, hath fully satisfied + the justice of God,[a] and purchased not only reconciliation, but + an everlasting inheritance in the kingdom of heaven, for all those whom + the Father hath given unto him.[b] + verses: + a: + - Rom.3.25-Rom.3.26 + - Rom.5.19 + - Eph.5.2 + - Heb.9.14 + - Heb.9.16 + - Heb.10.14 + b: + - Dan.9.24 + - Dan.9.26 + - John.17.2 + - Eph.1.11 + - Eph.1.14 + - Col.1.19-Col.1.20 + - Heb.9.12 + - Heb.9.15 + - number: 6 + text: > + Although the work of redemption was not actually wrought by Christ till + after his incarnation, yet the virtue, efficacy, and benefits thereof were + communicated to the elect, in all ages successively from the beginning + of the world, in and by those promises, types, and sacrifices, wherein he + was revealed, and signified to be the seed of the woman which should bruise + the serpent's head, and the Lamb slain from the beginning of the world, + being yesterday and today the same, and forever.[a] + verses: + a: + - Gen.3.15 + - Gal.4.4-Gal.4.5 + - Heb.13.8 + - Rev.13.8 + - number: 7 + text: > + Christ, in the work of mediation, acteth according to both natures; by each + nature doing that which is proper to itself;[a] yet, by reason of the unity + of the person, that which is proper to one nature is sometimes, in Scripture, + attributed to the person denominated by the other nature.[b] + verses: + a: + - Heb.9.14 + - 1Pet.3.18 + b: + - John.3.13 + - Acts.20.28 + - 1John.3.16 + - number: 8 + text: > + To all those for whom Christ hath purchased redemption he doth certainly + and effectually apply and communicate the same;[a] making intercession for + them,[b] and revealing unto them, in and by the Word, the mysteries of salvation;[c] + effectually persuading them by his Spirit to believe and obey; and governing + their hearts by his Word and Spirit;[d] overcoming all their enemies by + his almighty power and wisdom, in such manner and ways as are most consonant + to his most wonderful and unsearchable dispensation.[e] + verses: + a: + - John.6.37 + - John.6.39 + - John.10.15-John.10.16 + b: + - Rom.8.34 + - 1John.2.1-1John.2.2 + c: + - John.15.13 + - John.15.15 + - John.17.6 + - Eph.1.7-Eph.1.9 + d: + - John.14.16 + - John.17.17 + - Rom.8.9 + - Rom.8.14 + - Rom.15.18-Rom.15.19 + - 2Cor.4.13 + - Heb.12.2 + e: + - Ps.110.1 + - Mal.4.2-Mal.4.3 + - 1Cor.15.25-1Cor.15.26 + - Col.2.15 + - name: Of Free Will + number: 9 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + God hath endued the will of man with that natural liberty and power of + acting upon choice, that is neither forced nor by any absolute + necessity of nature determined to good or evil.[a] + verses: + a: + - Deut.30.19 + - Matt.17.12 + - Jas.1.14 + - number: 2 + text: > + Man, in his state of innocency, had freedom and power to will and to do + that which is good and well-pleasing to God,[a] but yet mutably, so that + he might fall from it.[b] + verses: + a: + - Gen.1.26 + - Eccl.7.29 + b: + - Gen.2.16-Gen.2.17 + - Gen.3.6 + - number: 3 + text: > + Man, by his fall into a state of sin, hath wholly lost all ability of will + to any spiritual good accompanying salvation;[a] so as a natural man, being + altogether averse from that good,[b] and dead in sin,[c] is not able, by + his own strength, to convert himself, or to prepare himself thereunto.[d] + verses: + a: + - John.15.5 + - Rom.5.6 + - Rom.8.7 + b: + - Rom.3.10 + - Rom.3.12 + c: + - Eph.2.1 + - Eph.2.5 + - Col.2.13 + d: + - John.6.44 + - John.6.65 + - 1Cor.2.14 + - Eph.2.2-Eph.2.5 + - Titus.3.3-Titus.3.5 + - number: 4 + text: > + When God converts a sinner, and translates him into the state of grace, + he freeth him from his natural bondage under sin,[a] and by his grace alone + enables him freely to will and to do that which is spiritually good;[b] + yet so as that, by reason of his remaining corruption, he doth not perfectly, + nor only, will that which is good, but doth also will that which is evil.[c] + verses: + a: + - John.8.34 + - John.8.36 + - Col.1.13 + b: + - Rom.6.18 + - Rom.6.22 + - Phil.2.13 + c: + - Rom.7.15 + - Rom.7.18-Rom.7.19 + - Rom.7.21 + - Rom.7.23 + - Gal.5.17 + - number: 5 + text: > + The will of man is made perfectly and immutably free to good alone, in the + state of glory only.[a] + verses: + a: + - Eph.4.13 + - Heb.12.23 + - 1John.3.2 + - Jude.1.24 + - name: Of Effectual Calling + number: 10 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + All those whom God hath predestinated unto life, and those only, he is pleased, + in his appointed and accepted time, effectually to call,[a] by his Word + and Spirit,[b] out of that state of sin and death, in which they are by + nature, to grace and salvation by Jesus Christ;[c] enlightening their minds, + spiritually and savingly, to understand the things of God;[d] taking away + their heart of stone, and giving unto them an heart of flesh;[e] renewing + their wills, and by his almighty power determining them to that which is + good,[f] and effectually drawing them to Jesus Christ;[g] yet so as they + come most freely, being made willing by his grace.[h] + verses: + a: + - Rom.8.30 + - Rom.11.7 + - Eph.1.10-Eph.1.11 + b: + - 2Cor.3.3 + - 2Cor.3.6 + - 2Thess.2.13-2Thess.2.14 + c: + - Rom.8.2 + - Eph.2.1-Eph.2.5 + - 2Tim.1.9-2Tim.1.10 + d: + - Acts.26.18 + - 1Cor.2.10 + - 1Cor.2.12 + - Eph.1.17-Eph.1.18 + e: + - Ezek.36.26 + f: + - Deut.30.6 + - Ezek.11.19 + - Ezek.36.27 + - Phil.2.13 + g: + - John.6.44-John.6.45 + - Eph.1.19 + h: + - Ps.110.3 + - Song.1.4 + - John.6.37 + - Rom.6.16-Rom.6.18 + - number: 2 + text: > + This effectual call is of God's free and special grace alone, not from anything + at all foreseen in man;[a] who is altogether passive therein, until, being + quickened and renewed by the Holy Spirit,[b] he is thereby enabled to answer + this call, and to embrace the grace offered and conveyed in it.[c] + verses: + a: + - Rom.9.11 + - Eph.2.4-Eph.2.5 + - Eph.2.8-Eph.2.9 + - 2Tim.1.9 + - Titus.3.4-Titus.3.5 + b: + - Rom.8.7 + - 1Cor.2.14 + - Eph.2.5 + c: + - Ezek.36.27 + - John.5.25 + - John.6.37 + - number: 3 + text: > + Elect infants, dying in infancy, are regenerated and saved by Christ through + the Spirit,[a] who worketh when, and where, and how he pleaseth.[b] So also + are all other elect persons who are incapable of being outwardly called + by the ministry of the Word.[c] + verses: + a: + - Luke.18.15-Luke.18.16 + - John.3.3 + - John.3.5 + - Acts.2.38-Acts.2.39 + - Rom.8.9 + - 1John.5.12 + b: + - John.3.8 + c: + - Acts.4.12 + - 1John.5.12 + - number: 4 + text: > + Others, not elected, although they may be called by the ministry of the + Word,[a] and may have some common operations of the Spirit,[b] yet + not being effectually drawn by the Father, they neither do nor can + come unto Christ, and therefore cannot be saved:[c] much less + can men, not professing the Christian religion, be saved in any other way + whatsoever, be they never so diligent to frame their lives according to + the light of nature and the law of that religion they do profess;[d] and + to assert and maintain that they may is very pernicious, and to be detested.[e] + verses: + a: + - Matt.22.14 + b: + - Matt.7.22 + - Matt.13.20-Matt.13.21 + - Heb.6.4-Heb.6.5 + c: + - John.6.64-John.6.66 + - John.8.24 + d: + - John.4.22 + - John.14.6 + - John.17.3 + - Acts.4.12 + - Eph.2.12 + e: + - 1Cor.16.22 + - Gal.1.6-Gal.1.8 + - 2John.1.9-2John.1.11 + - name: Of Justification + number: 11 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Those whom God effectually calleth he also freely justifieth;[a] not by + infusing righteousness into them, but by pardoning their sins, and by accounting + and accepting their persons as righteous: not for anything wrought in them, + or done by them, but for Christ's sake alone; nor by imputing faith itself, + the act of believing, or any other evangelical obedience to them, as their + righteousness; but by imputing Christ's active obedience to the whole + law, and passive obedience in his death for their whole and sole + righteousness,[b] they receiving and resting on him and his righteousness by + faith; which faith they have not of themselves, it is the gift of God.[c] + verses: + a: + - Rom.3.24 + - Rom.8.30 + b: + - Jer.23.6 + - Rom.3.22 + - Rom.3.24-Rom.3.25 + - Rom.3.27-Rom.3.28 + - Rom.4.5-Rom.4.8 + - Rom.5.17-Rom.5.19 + - 1Cor.1.30-1Cor.1.31 + - 2Cor.5.19 + - 2Cor.5.21 + - Eph.1.7 + - Titus.3.5 + - Titus.3.7 + c: + - Acts.10.44 + - Acts.13.38-Acts.13.39 + - Gal.2.16 + - Eph.2.7-Eph.2.8 + - Phil.3.9 + - number: 2 + text: > + Faith, thus receiving and resting on Christ and his righteousness, is the + alone instrument of justification;[a] yet is it not alone in the person + justified, but is ever accompanied with all other saving graces, and is + no dead faith, but worketh by love.[b] + verses: + a: + - John.1.12 + - Rom.3.28 + - Rom.5.1 + b: + - Gal.5.6 + - Jas.2.17 + - Jas.2.22 + - Jas.2.26 + - number: 3 + text: > + Christ, by his obedience and death, did fully discharge the debt of all + those that are thus justified, and did by the sacrifice of himself, + in the blood of his cross, undergoing in their stead the penalty due unto them + make a proper, real, and full satisfaction + to God's justice in their behalf.[a] Yet inasmuch as he was given + by the Father for them,[b] and his obedience and satisfaction accepted in + their stead,[c] and both freely, not for anything in them, their justification + is only of free grace;[d] that both the exact justice and rich grace of + God might be glorified in the justification of sinners.[e] + verses: + a: + - Isa.53.4-Isa.53.6 + - Isa.53.10-Isa.53.12 + - Dan.9.24 + - Dan.9.26 + - Rom.5.8-Rom.5.10 + - Rom.5.19 + - 1Tim.2.5-1Tim.2.6 + - Heb.10.10 + - Heb.10.14 + b: + - Rom.8.32 + c: + - Matt.3.17 + - 2Cor.5.21 + - Eph.5.2 + d: + - Rom.3.24 + - Eph.1.7 + e: + - Rom.3.26 + - Eph.2.7 + - number: 4 + text: > + God did, from all eternity, decree to justify all the elect,[a] and Christ + did, in the fulness of time, die for their sins, and rise again for their + justification:[b] nevertheless, they are not justified personally + until the Holy Spirit doth, in due time, actually apply Christ unto them.[c] + verses: + a: + - Rom.8.30 + - Gal.3.8 + - 1Pet.1.2 + - 1Pet.1.19-1Pet.1.20 + b: + - Rom.4.25 + - Gal.4.4 + - 1Tim.2.6 + c: + - Gal.2.16 + - Col.1.21-Col.1.22 + - Titus.3.4-Titus.3.7 + - number: 5 + text: > + God doth continue to forgive the sins of those that are justified;[a] and + although they can never fall from the state of justification,[b] yet they + may by their sins fall under God's fatherly displeasure, and not have the + light of his countenance restored unto them, until they humble themselves, + confess their sins, beg pardon, and renew their faith and repentance.[c] + verses: + a: + - Matt.6.12 + - 1John.1.7 + - 1John.1.9 + - 1John.2.1-1John.2.2 + b: + - Luke.22.32 + - John.10.28 + - Heb.10.14 + c: + - Ps.32.5 + - Ps.51.7-Ps.51.12 + - Ps.89.31-Ps.89.33 + - Matt.26.75 + - Luke.1.20 + - 1Cor.11.30 + - 1Cor.11.32 + - number: 6 + text: > + The justification of believers under the Old Testament was, in all these + respects, one and the same with the justification of believers under the + New Testament.[a] + verses: + a: + - Rom.4.22-Rom.4.24 + - Gal.3.9 + - Gal.3.13-Gal.3.14 + - Heb.13.8 + - name: Of Adoption + number: 12 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + All those that are justified God vouchsafeth, in and for his only Son Jesus + Christ, to make partakers of the grace of adoption;[a] by which they are + taken into the number, and enjoy the liberties and privileges of the children + of God;[b] have his name put upon them;[c] receive the Spirit of adoption;[d] + have access to the throne of grace with boldness;[e] are enabled to cry, + Abba, Father;[f] are pitied,[g] protected,[h] provided for,[i] and chastened + by him as by a father;[k] yet never cast off,[l] but sealed to the day of + redemption,[m] and inherit the promises,[n] as heirs of everlasting salvation.[o] + verses: + a: + - Gal.4.4-Gal.4.5 + - Eph.1.5 + b: + - John.1.12 + - Rom.8.17 + c: + - Jer.14.9 + - 2Cor.6.18 + - Rev.3.12 + d: + - Rom.8.15 + e: + - Rom.5.2 + - Eph.3.12 + f: + - Gal.4.6 + g: + - Ps.103.13 + h: + - Prov.14.26 + i: + - Matt.6.30 + - Matt.6.32 + - 1Pet.5.7 + k: + - Heb.12.6 + l: + - Lam.3.31 + m: + - Eph.4.30 + n: + - Heb.6.12 + o: + - Heb.1.14 + - 1Pet.1.3-1Pet.1.4 + - name: Of Sanctification + number: 13 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + They that are united to Christ, effectually called and regenerated, + having a new heart and a new spirit created in them, through the + virtue of Christ's death and resurrection, are also further sanctified + really and personally through the same virtue, by his Word and + Spirit dwelling in them;[b] the dominion of the whole body of sin is destroyed,[c] + and the several lusts thereof are more and more weakened and mortified,[d] + and they more and more quickened and strengthened, in all saving graces,[e] + to the practice of true holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.[f] + verses: + a: + - Acts.20.32 + - Rom.6.5-Rom.6.6 + - 1Cor.6.11 + - Phil.3.10 + b: + - John.17.17 + - Eph.5.26 + - 2Thess.2.13 + c: + - Rom.6.6 + - Rom.6.14 + d: + - Rom.8.13 + - Gal.5.24 + e: + - Eph.3.16-Eph.3.19 + - Col.1.11 + f: + - 2Cor.7.1 + - Heb.12.14 + - number: 2 + text: > + This sanctification is throughout in the whole man,[a] yet imperfect in + this life; there abideth still some remnants of corruption in every part,[b] + whence ariseth a continual and irreconcilable war, the flesh lusting against + the spirit, and the spirit against the flesh.[c] + verses: + a: + - 1Thess.5.23 + b: + - Rom.7.18 + - Rom.7.23 + - Phil.3.12 + - 1John.1.10 + c: + - Gal.5.17 + - 1Pet.2.11 + - number: 3 + text: > + In which war, although the remaining corruption for a time may much prevail,[a] + yet, through the continual supply of strength from the sanctifying Spirit + of Christ, the regenerate part doth overcome;[b] and so the saints grow + in grace,[c] perfecting holiness in the fear of God.[d] + verses: + a: + - Rom.7.23 + b: + - Rom.6.14 + - Eph.4.15-Eph.4.16 + - 1John.5.4 + c: + - 2Cor.3.18 + - 2Pet.3.18 + d: + - 2Cor.7.1 + - name: Of Saving Faith + number: 14 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + The grace of faith, whereby the elect are enabled to believe to the saving + of their souls,[a] is the work of the Spirit of Christ in their hearts,[b] + and is ordinarily wrought by the ministry of the Word;[c] by which also, + and by the administration of the seals, prayer, and other means it is increased + and strengthened.[d] + verses: + a: + - Heb.10.39 + b: + - Eph.1.17-Eph.1.19 + - Eph.2.8 + - 2Cor.4.13 + c: + - Rom.10.14 + - Rom.10.17 + d: + - Luke.17.5 + - Acts.20.32 + - Rom.1.16-Rom.1.17 + - Rom.4.11 + - 1Pet.2.2 + - number: 2 + text: > + By this faith a Christian believeth to be true whatsoever is revealed in + the Word, for the authority of God himself speaking therein;[a] and acteth + differently upon that which each particular passage thereof containeth; + yielding obedience to the commands,[b] trembling at the threatenings,[c] + and embracing the promises of God for this life and that which is to come.[d] + But the principal acts of saving faith are accepting, receiving, and resting + upon Christ alone for justification, sanctification, and eternal life, by + virtue of the covenant of grace.[e] + verses: + a: + - John.4.42 + - Acts.24.14 + - 1Thess.2.13 + - 1John.5.10 + b: + - Rom.16.26 + c: + - Isa.66.2 + d: + - 1Tim.4.8 + - Heb.11.13 + e: + - John.1.12 + - Acts.15.11 + - Acts.16.31 + - Gal.2.20 + - number: 3 + text: > + This faith, althought it be different in degrees, and may be weak or strong;[a] + yet it is in the least degree of it different in the kind or nature of it + (as is all other saving grace) from the faith and common grace of + temporary believers; and therefore, though it may be many times + assailed and weakened, yet it gets the victory;[b] growing up in + many to the attainment of a full assurance through Christ,[c] who is both + the author and finisher of our faith.[d] + verses: + a: + - Matt.6.30 + - Matt.8.10 + - Rom.4.19-Rom.4.20 + - Heb.5.13-Heb.5.14 + b: + - Luke.22.31-Luke.22.32 + - Eph.6.16 + - 1John.5.4-1John.5.5 + c: + - Col.2.2 + - Heb.6.11-Heb.6.12 + - Heb.10.22 + d: + - Heb.12.2 + - name: Of Repentance unto Life and Salvation + number: 15 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Such of the elect as are converted at riper years, having sometime + lived in the state of nature, and therein served divers lusts and + pleasures, God in their effectual calling giveth them repentance unto + life. + verses: {} + - number: 2 + text: > + Whereas there is none that doth good and sinneth not, and the best of + men may, through the power and deceitfulness of their corruption + dwelling in them, with the prevalency of temptation, fall into great + sins and provocations; God hath, in the covenant of grace, mercifully + provided that believers so sinning and falling be renewed through + repentance unto salvation. + verses: {} + - number: 3 + text: > + This saving repentance is an evangelical grace, whereby a person, + being by the Holy Spirit made sensible of the manifold evils of his + sin, doth, by faith in Christ, humble himself for it with godly + sorrow, detestation of it, and self-abhorrency, praying for pardon and + strength of grace, with a purpose and endeavour, by supplies of the + Spirit, to walk before God unto all well-pleasing in all things. + verses: {} + - number: 4 + text: > + As repentance is to be continued through the whole course of our + lives, upon the account of the body of death, and the motions thereof, + so it is every man's duty to repent of his particular known sins + particularly. + verses: {} + - number: 5 + text: > + Such is the provision which God hath made through Christ in the + covenant of grace for the preservation of believers unto salvation; + that although there is no sin so small but it deserves damnation; yet + there is no sin so great that it shall bring damnation on them that + repent; which makes the constant preaching of repentance necessary. + verses: {} + - name: Of Good Works + number: 16 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Good works are only such as God hath commanded in his holy Word,[a] and + not such as, without the warrant thereof, are devised by men out of blind + zeal, or upon any pretense of good intention.[b] + verses: + a: + - Mic.6.8 + - Rom.12.2 + - Heb.13.21 + b: + - 1Sam.15.21-1Sam.15.23 + - Isa.29.13 + - Matt.15.9 + - John.16.2 + - Rom.10.2 + - 1Pet.1.18 + - number: 2 + text: > + These good works, done in obedience to God's commandments, are the fruits + and evidences of a true and lively faith;[a] and by them believers manifest + their thankfulness,[b] strengthen their assurance,[c] edify their brethren,[d] + adorn the profession of the gospel,[e] stop the mouths of the adversaries,[f] + and glorify God,[g] whose workmanship they are, created in Christ Jesus + thereunto,[h] that, having their fruit unto holiness, they may have the + end, eternal life.[i] + verses: + a: + - Jas.2.18 + - Jas.2.22 + b: + - Ps.116.12-Ps.116.13 + - 1Pet.2.9 + c: + - 2Pet.1.5-2Pet.1.10 + - 1John.2.3 + - 1John.2.5 + d: + - Matt.5.16 + - 2Cor.9.2 + e: + - 1Tim.6.1 + - Titus.2.5 + - Titus.2.9-Titus.2.12 + f: + - 1Pet.2.15 + g: + - John.15.8 + - Phil.1.11 + - 1Pet.2.12 + h: + - Eph.2.10 + i: + - Rom.6.22 + - number: 3 + text: > + Their ability to do good works is not at all of themselves, but wholly from + the Spirit of Christ.[a] And that they may be enabled thereunto, besides + the graces they have already received, there is required an actual influence + of the same Holy Spirit to work in them to will and to do of his good pleasure;[b] + yet are they not hereupon to grow negligent, as if they were not bound to + perform any duty unless upon a special motion of the Spirit; but they ought + to be diligent in stirring up the grace of God that is in them.[c] + verses: + a: + - Ezek.36.26-Ezek.36.27 + - John.15.4-John.15.6 + b: + - Phil.2.13 + - Phil.4.13 + - 2Cor.3.5 + c: + - Isa.64.7 + - Acts.26.6-Acts.26.7 + - Phil.2.12 + - 2Tim.1.6 + - Heb.6.11-Heb.6.12 + - 2Pet.1.3 + - 2Pet.1.5 + - 2Pet.1.10-2Pet.1.11 + - Jude.1.20-Jude.1.21 + - number: 4 + text: > + They who in their obedience attain to the greatest height which is possible + in this life, are so far from being able to supererogate and to do more + than God requires, as that they fall short of much which in duty they are + bound to do.[a] + verses: + a: + - Neh.13.22 + - Job.9.2-Job.9.3 + - Luke.17.10 + - Gal.5.17 + - number: 5 + text: > + We cannot, by our best works, merit pardon of sin, or eternal life at the + hand of God, by reason of the great disproportion that is between them and + the glory to come, and the infinite distance that is between us and God, + whom by them we can neither profit nor satisfy for the debt of our former + sins;[a] but when we have done all we can, we have done but our duty, and + are unprofitable servants;[b] and because, as they are good, they proceed + from his Spirit;[c] and as they are wrought by us, they are defiled and + mixed with so much weakness and imperfection that they cannot endure the + severity of God's judgment.[d] + verses: + a: + - Job.22.2-Job.22.3 + - Job.35.7-Job.35.8 + - Ps.16.2 + - Rom.3.20 + - Rom.4.2 + - Rom.4.4 + - Rom.4.6 + - Rom.8.18 + - Eph.2.8-Eph.2.9 + - Titus.3.5-Titus.3.7 + b: + - Luke.17.10 + c: + - Gal.5.22-Gal.5.23 + d: + - Ps.130.3 + - Ps.143.2 + - Isa.64.6 + - Rom.7.15 + - Rom.7.18 + - Gal.5.17 + - number: 6 + text: > + Yet notwithstanding, the persons of believers being accepted through Christ, + their good works also are accepted in him,[a] not as though they were in + this life wholly unblamable and unreprovable in God's sight;[b] but that + he, looking upon them in his Son, is pleased to accept and reward that which + is sincere, although accompanied with many weaknesses and imperfections.[c] + verses: + a: + - Gen.4.4 + - Heb.11.4 + - Exod.28.38 + - Eph.1.6 + - 1Pet.2.5 + b: + - Job.9.20 + - Ps.143.2 + c: + - Matt.25.21 + - Matt.25.23 + - 2Cor.8.12 + - Heb.6.10 + - Heb.13.20-Heb.13.21 + - number: 7 + text: > + Works done by unregenerate men, although for the matter of them they may + be things which God commands, and of good use both to themselves and others;[a] + yet because they proceed not from a heart purified by faith,[b] nor are + done in a right manner, according to the Word,[c] nor to a right end, the + glory of God;[d] they are therefore sinful, and cannot please God, or make + a man meet to receive grace from God.[e] And yet their neglect of them is + more sinful and displeasing unto God.[f] + verses: + a: + - 1Kgs.21.27 + - 1Kgs.21.29 + - 2Kgs.10.30-2Kgs.10.31 + - Phil.1.15-Phil.1.16 + - Phil.1.18 + b: + - Gen.4.3-Gen.4.5 + - Heb.11.4 + - Heb.11.6 + c: + - Isa.1.12 + - 1Cor.13.3 + d: + - Matt.6.2 + - Matt.6.5 + - Matt.6.16 + e: + - Amos.5.21-Amos.5.22 + - Hos.1.4 + - Hag.2.14 + - Rom.9.16 + - Titus.1.15 + - Titus.3.5 + f: + - Job.21.14-Job.21.15 + - Ps.14.4 + - Ps.36.3 + - Matt.23.23 + - Matt.25.41-Matt.25.45 + - name: Of the Perseverance of the Saints + number: 17 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + They whom God hath accepted in his Beloved, effectually called and sanctified + by his Spirit, can neither totally nor finally fall away from the state + of grace; but shall certainly persevere therein to the end, and be eternally + saved.[a] + verses: + a: + - John.10.28-John.10.29 + - Phil.1.6 + - 1Pet.1.5 + - 1Pet.1.9 + - 2Pet.1.10 + - 1John.3.9 + - number: 2 + text: > + This perseverance of the saints depends, not upon their own free will, but + upon the immutability of the decree of election, flowing from the free and + unchangeable love of God the Father;[a] upon the efficacy of the merit and + intercession of Jesus Christ, and union with him; the oath of God;[b] + the abiding of the Spirit and of the seed of God within them;[c] + and the nature of the covenant of grace:[d] from + all which ariseth also the certainty and infallibility thereof.[e] + verses: + a: + - Jer.31.3 + - 2Tim.2.18-2Tim.2.19 + b: + - Luke.22.32 + - John.17.11 + - John.17.24 + - Heb.7.25 + - Heb.9.12-Heb.9.15 + - Heb.10.10 + - Heb.10.14 + - Heb.13.20-Heb.13.21 + - Rom.8.33-Rom.8.39 + c: + - John.14.16-John.14.17 + - 1John.2.27 + - 1John.3.9 + d: + - Jer.32.40 + e: + - John.10.28 + - 2Thess.3.3 + - 1John.2.19 + - number: 3 + text: > + And though they may, through the temptations of Satan and of the world, + the prevalency of corruption remaining in them, and the neglect of the means + of their preservation, fall into grievous sins;[a] and for a time continue + therein:[b] whereby they incur God's displeasure,[c] and grieve his Holy + Spirit;[d] come to have their graces and comforts impaired; + have their hearts hardened,[f] and their consciences wounded;[g] hurt and + scandalize others,[h] and bring temporal judgments upon themselves;[i] + yet they are and shall be kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. + verses: + a: + - Matt.26.70 + - Matt.26.72 + - Matt.26.74 + b: + - Ps.51.14 + c: + - 2Sam.11.27 + - Isa.64.5 + - Isa.64.7 + - Isa.64.9 + d: + - Eph.4.30 + f: + - Isa.63.17 + - Mark.6.52 + - Mark.16.14 + g: + - Ps.32.3-Ps.32.4 + - Ps.51.8 + h: + - 2Sam.12.14 + i: + - Ps.89.31-Ps.89.32 + - 1Cor.11.32 + - name: Of the Assurance of Grace and Salvation + number: 18 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Although temporary believers and other unregenerate men may vainly + deceive themselves with false hopes and carnal presumptions of being + in the favour of God and estate of salvation,[a] which hope of theirs + shall perish:[b] yet such as truly believe in the Lord Jesus, and love + him in sincerity, endeavoring to walk in all good conscience before + him, may in this life be certainly assured that they are in a state of + grace,[c] and may rejoice in the hope of the glory of God, which hope + shall never make them ashamed.[d] + verses: + a: + - Deut.29.19 + - Job.8.13-Job.8.14 + - Mic.3.11 + - John.8.41 + b: + - Matt.7.22-Matt.7.23 + c: + - 1John.2.3 + - 1John.3.14 + - 1John.3.18-1John.3.19 + - 1John.3.21 + - 1John.3.24 + - 1John.5.13 + d: + - Rom.5.2 + - Rom.5.5 + - number: 2 + text: > + This certainty is not a bare conjectural and probable persuasion, grounded + upon a fallible hope;[a] but an infallible assurance of faith, founded upon + the divine truth of the promises of salvation,[b] the inward evidence of + those graces unto which these promises are made,[c] the testimony of the + Spirit of adoption witnessing with our spirits that we are the children + of God:[d] which Spirit is the earnest of our inheritance, whereby we are + sealed to the day of redemption.[e] + verses: + a: + - Heb.6.11 + - Heb.6.19 + b: + - Heb.6.17-Heb.6.18 + c: + - 2Cor.1.12 + - 2Pet.1.4-2Pet.1.5 + - 2Pet.1.10-2Pet.1.11 + - 1John.2.3 + - 1John.3.14 + d: + - Rom.8.15-Rom.8.16 + e: + - Eph.1.13-Eph.1.14 + - Eph.4.30 + - 2Cor.1.21-2Cor.1.22 + - number: 3 + text: > + This infallible assurance doth not so belong to the essence of faith, but + that a true believer may wait long, and conflict with many difficulties + before he be partaker of it:[a] yet, being enabled by the Spirit to know + the things which are freely given him of God, he may, without extraordinary + revelation, in the right use of ordinary means, attain thereunto.[b] And + therefore it is the duty of everyone to give all diligence to make his calling + and election sure;[c] that thereby his heart may be enlarged in peace and + joy in the Holy Ghost, in love and thankfulness to God, and in strength + and cheerfulness in the duties of obedience,[d] the proper fruits of this + assurance: so far is it from inclining men to looseness.[e] + verses: + a: + - Ps.88 + - Ps.77.1-Ps.77.12 + - Isa.50.10 + - Mark.9.24 + - 1John.5.13 + b: + - 1Cor.2.12 + - Eph.3.17-Eph.3.19 + - Heb.6.11-Heb.6.12 + - 1John.4.13 + c: + - 2Pet.1.10 + d: + - Rom.5.1-Rom.5.2 + - Rom.5.5 + - Rom.14.17 + - Rom.15.13 + - Eph.1.3-Eph.1.4 + - Ps.4.6-Ps.4.7 + - Ps.119.32 + e: + - Ps.130.4 + - Rom.6.1-Rom.6.2 + - Rom.8.1 + - Rom.8.12 + - 2Cor.7.1 + - Titus.2.11-Titus.2.12 + - Titus.2.14 + - 1John.1.6-1John.1.7 + - 1John.2.1-1John.2.2 + - 1John.3.2-1John.3.3 + - number: 4 + text: > + True believers may have the assurance of their salvation divers ways shaken, + diminished, and intermitted; as, by negligence in preserving of it; by falling + into some special sin, which woundeth the conscience, and grieveth the Spirit; + by some sudden or vehement temptation; by God's withdrawing the light of + his countenance, and suffering even such as fear him to walk in darkness + and to have no light:[a] yet are they neither utterly destitute of that seed + of God, and life of faith, that love of Christ and the brethren, that sincerity + of heart and conscience of duty, out of which, by the operation of the Spirit, + this assurance may in due time be revived,[b] and by the which, in the meantime, + they are supported from utter despair.[c] + verses: + a: + - Ps.31.22 + - Ps.51.8 + - Ps.51.12 + - Ps.51.14 + - Ps.77.1-Ps.77.10 + - Ps.88 + - Song.5.2-Song.5.3 + - Song.5.6 + - Isa.50.10 + - Matt.26.69-Matt.26.72 + - Eph.4.30-Eph.4.31 + b: + - Job.13.15 + - Ps.51.8 + - Ps.51.12 + - Ps.73.15 + - Isa.50.10 + - Luke.22.32 + - 1John.3.9 + c: + - Ps.22.1 + - Ps.88 + - Isa.54.7-Isa.54.10 + - Jer.32.40 + - Mic.7.7-Mic.7.9 + - name: Of the Law of God + number: 19 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + God gave to Adam a law of universal obedience written in his heart, + and a particular precept of not eating the fruit of the tree of + knowledge of good and evil, as a covenant of works, by which he bound + him and all his posterity to personal, entire, exact, and perpetual + obedience; promised life upon the fulfilling, and threatened death + upon the breach of it; and endued him with power and ability to keep + it.[a] + verses: + a: + - Gen.1.26-Gen.1.27 + - Gen.2.17 + - Job.28.28 + - Eccl.7.29 + - Rom.2.14-Rom.2.15 + - Rom.5.12 + - Rom.5.19 + - Rom.10.5 + - Gal.3.10 + - Gal.3.12 + - number: 2 + text: > + This law, so written in the heart, continued to be a perfect rule of + righteousness after the fall of man; and, was delivered by God upon + mount Sinai in ten commandments, and written in two tables;[a] the + four first commandments containing our duty towards God, and the other + six our duty to man.[b] + verses: + a: + - Exod.34.1 + - Deut.5.32 + - Deut.10.4 + - Rom.13.8-Rom.13.9 + - Jas.1.25 + - Jas.2.8 + - Jas.2.10-Jas.2.12 + b: + - Matt.22.37-Matt.22.40 + - number: 3 + text: > + Beside this law, commonly called moral, God was pleased to give to the + people of Israel ceremonial laws, containing several typical + ordinances, partly of worship, prefiguring Christ, his graces, + actions, sufferings, and benefits;[a] and partly holding forth divers + instructions of moral duties.[b] All which ceremonial laws being + appointed only to the time of reformation, are by Jesus Christ the + true Messiah and only lawgiver, who was furnished with power from the + Father for that end, abrogated and taken away. + verses: + a: + - Gal.4.1-Gal.4.3 + - Col.2.17 + - Heb.9 + - Heb.10.1 + b: + - 1Cor.5.7 + - 2Cor.6.17 + - Jude.1.23 + - number: 4 + text: > + To them also he gave sundry judicial laws, which expired together with + the State of that people, not obliging any other, now by virtue of + that institution, their general equity only being still of moral use. + verses: {} + - number: 5 + text: > + The moral law doth forever bind all, as well justified persons as others, + to the obedience thereof;[a] and that not only in regard of the matter contained + in it, but also in respect of the authority of God the Creator who gave + it.[b] Neither doth Christ in the gospel any way dissolve, but much strengthen, + this obligation.[c] + verses: + a: + - Rom.13.8-Rom.13.10 + - Eph.6.2 + - 1John.2.3-1John.2.4 + - 1John.2.7-1John.2.8 + b: + - Jas.2.10-Jas.2.11 + c: + - Matt.5.17-Matt.5.19 + - Rom.3.31 + - Jas.2.8 + - number: 6 + text: > + Although true believers be not under the law as a covenant of works, to + be thereby justified or condemned;[a] yet is it of great use to them, as + well as to others; in that, as a rule of life, informing them of the will + of God and their duty, it directs and binds them to walk accordingly;[b] + discovering also the sinful pollutions of their nature, hearts, and lives;[c] + so as, examining themselves thereby, they may come to further conviction + of, humiliation for, and hatred against sin;[d] together with a clearer + sight of the need they have of Christ, and the perfection of his obedience.[e] + It is likewise of use to the regenerate, to restrain their corruptions, + in that it forbids sin;[f] and the threatenings of it serve to show what + even their sins deserve, and what afflictions in this life they may expect + for them, although freed from the curse thereof threatened in the law.[g] + The promises of it, in like manner, show them God's approbation of obedience, + and what blessings they may expect upon the performance thereof;[h] although + not as due to them by the law as a covenant of works:[i] so as a man's doing + good, and refraining from evil, because the law encourageth to the one, + and deterreth from the other, is no evidence of his being under the law, + and not under grace.[k] + verses: + a: + - Acts.13.39 + - Rom.6.14 + - Rom.8.1 + - Gal.2.16 + - Gal.3.13 + - Gal.4.4-Gal.4.5 + b: + - Ps.119.4-Ps.119.6 + - Rom.7.12 + - Rom.7.22 + - Rom.7.25 + - 1Cor.7.19 + - Gal.5.14 + - Gal.5.16 + - Gal.5.18-Gal.5.23 + c: + - Rom.3.20 + - Rom.7.7 + d: + - Rom.7.9 + - Rom.7.14 + - Rom.7.24 + - Jas.1.23-Jas.1.25 + e: + - Rom.7.24-Rom.7.25 + - Rom.8.3-Rom.8.4 + - Gal.3.24 + f: + - Ps.119.101 + - Ps.119.104 + - Ps.119.128 + - Jas.2.11 + g: + - Ezra.9.13-Ezra.9.14 + - Ps.89.30-Ps.89.34 + h: + - Lev.26.1 + - Lev.26.10 + - Lev.26.14 + - 2Cor.6.16 + - Ps.19.11 + - Ps.37.11 + - Matt.5.5 + - Eph.6.2-Eph.6.3 + i: + - Luke.17.10 + - Gal.2.16 + k: + - Rom.6.12 + - Rom.6.14 + - Heb.12.28-Heb.12.29 + - 1Pet.3.8-1Pet.3.12 + - Ps.34.12-Ps.34.16 + - number: 7 + text: > + Neither are the forementioned uses of the law contrary to the grace of the + gospel, but do sweetly comply with it:[a] the Spirit of Christ subduing + and enabling the will of man to do that freely and cheerfully which the + will of God, revealed in the law, required to be done.[b] + verses: + a: + - Gal.3.21 + b: + - Ezek.36.27 + - Heb.8.10 + - Jer.31.33 + + - name: Of the Gospel and the Extent of Grace Thereof + number: 20 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + The covenant of works being broken by sin, and made unprofitable unto + life, God was pleased to give unto the elect the promise of Christ, + the seed of the woman, as the means of calling them, and begetting in + them faith and repentance: in this promise the gospel, as to the + substance of it, was revealed, and was therein effectual for the + conversion and salvation of sinners. + verses: {} + - number: 2 + text: > + This promise of Christ, and salvation by him, is revealed only in and + by the Word of God; neither do the works of creation or providence, + with the light of nature, make discovery of Christ, or of grace by + him, so much as in a general or obscure way; much less that men + destitute of the revelation of him by the promise or gospel, should be + enabled thereby to attain saving faith or repentance. + verses: {} + - number: 3 + text: > + The revelation of the gospel unto sinners, made in divers times, and + by sundry parts, with the addition of promises and precepts for the + obedience required therein, as to the nations and persons to whom it + is granted, is merely of the sovereign will and good pleasure of God, + not being annexed by virtue of any promise to the due improvement of + men's natural abilities, by virtue of common light received without + it, which none ever did make or can so do. And therefore in all ages + the preaching of the gospel hath been granted unto persons and + nations, as to the extent or straitening of it, in great variety, + according to the counsel of the will of God. + verses: {} + - number: 4 + text: > + Although the gospel be the only outward means of revealing Christ and + saving grace, and is as such abundantly sufficient thereunto; yet that + men who are dead in trespasses, may be born again, quickened or + regenerated, there is moreover necessary an effectual, irresistible + work of the Holy Ghost upon the whole soul, for the producing in them + a new spiritual life, without which no other means are sufficient for + their conversion unto God. + verses: {} + - name: Of Christian Liberty, and Liberty of Conscience + number: 21 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + The liberty which Christ hath purchased for believers under the gospel + consists in their freedom from the guilt of sin, the condemning wrath + of God, the rigor and the curse of the law;[a] and in their being + delivered from this present evil world, bondage to Satan, and dominion + of sin,[b] from the evil of afflictions, the fear and sting of death, + the victory of the grave, and everlasting damnation;[c] as also in + their free access to God,[d] and their yielding obedience unto him, + not out of slavish fear, but a child-like love and willing mind.[e] + All which were common also to believers under the law for the + substance of them;[f] but under the New Testament the liberty of + Christians is further enlarged in their freedom from the yoke of the + ceremonial law, the whole legal administration of the covenant of grace, + to which the Jewish Church was subjected;[g] and in + greater boldness of access to the throne of grace,[h] and in fuller + communications of the free Spirit of God, than believers under the law + did ordinarily partake of.[i] + verses: + a: + - Gal.3.13 + - 1Thess.1.10 + - Titus.2.14 + b: + - Acts.26.18 + - Rom.6.14 + - Gal.1.4 + - Col.1.13 + c: + - Ps.119.71 + - Rom.8.1 + - Rom.8.28 + - 1Cor.15.54-1Cor.15.57 + d: + - Rom.5.1-Rom.5.2 + e: + - Rom.8.14-Rom.8.15 + - 1John.4.18 + f: + - Gal.3.9 + - Gal.3.14 + g: + - Acts.15.10-Acts.15.11 + - Gal.4.1-Gal.4.3 + - Gal.4.6-Gal.4.7 + - Gal.5.1 + h: + - Heb.4.14 + - Heb.4.16 + - Heb.10.19-Heb.10.22 + i: + - John.7.38-John.7.39 + - 2Cor.3.13 + - 2Cor.3.17-2Cor.3.18 + - number: 2 + text: > + God alone is Lord of the conscience,[a] and hath left it free from the + doctrines and commandments of men which are in anything contrary to + his Word, not contained in it; so that to believe such doctrines, or + to obey such commands out of conscience, is to betray true liberty of + conscience;[c] and the requiring of an implicit faith, and an absolute + and blind obedience, is to destroy liberty of conscience, and reason + also.[d] + verses: + a: + - Rom.14.4 + - Jas.4.12 + c: + - Ps.5.1 + - Gal.1.10 + - Gal.2.4-Gal.2.5 + - Gal.5.1 + - Col.2.20-Col.2.23 + d: + - Isa.8.20 + - Jer.8.9 + - Hos.5.11 + - John.4.22 + - Acts.17.11 + - Rom.10.17 + - Rom.14.23 + - Rev.13.12 + - Rev.13.16-Rev.13.17 + - number: 3 + text: > + They who, upon pretense of Christian liberty, do practice any sin, or + cherish any lust, as they do thereby pervert the main design of the + grace of the gospel to their own destruction; so they wholly destroy + the end of Christian liberty; which is, that, being delivered out of + the hands of our enemies, we might serve the Lord without fear, in + holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life.[a] + verses: + a: + - Luke.1.74-Luke.1.75 + - John.8.34 + - Gal.5.13 + - 1Pet.2.16 + - 2Pet.2.19 + - name: Of Religious Worship and the Sabbath Day + number: 22 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + The light of nature showeth that there is a God, who hath lordship and sovereignty + over all; is just, good, and doth good unto all; and is therefore to be feared, + loved, praised, called upon, trusted in, and served with all the heart, + and with all the soul, and with all the might.[a] But the acceptable way + of worshipping the true God is instituted by himself, and so limited to + his own revealed will, that he may not be worshipped according to the imaginations + and devices of men, or the suggestions of Satan, under any visible representations + or any other way not prescribed in the Holy Scripture.[b] + verses: + a: + - Josh.24.14 + - Ps.18.3 + - Ps.31.23 + - Ps.62.8 + - Ps.119.68 + - Jer.10.7 + - Mark.12.33 + - Acts.17.24 + - Rom.1.20 + - Rom.10.12 + b: + - Exod.20.4-Exod.20.6 + - Deut.4.15-Deut.4.20 + - Deut.12.32 + - Matt.4.9-Matt.4.10 + - Matt.15.9 + - Acts.17.25 + - Col.2.23 + - number: 2 + text: > + Religious worship is to be given to God, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost; + and to him alone:[a] not to angels, saints, or any other creature:[b] and + since the fall, not without a Mediator; nor in the mediation of any other + but of Christ alone.[c] + verses: + a: + - Matt.4.10 + - John.5.23 + - 2Cor.13.14 + b: + - Rom.1.25 + - Col.2.18 + - Rev.19.10 + c: + - John.14.6 + - Eph.2.18 + - Col.3.17 + - 1Tim.2.5 + - number: 3 + text: > + Prayer with thanksgiving, being one special part of natural worship,[a] + is by God required of all men;[b] but that it may be accepted, it is to + be made in the name of the Son,[c] by the help of his Spirit,[d] according + to his will,[e] with understanding, reverence, humility, fervency, faith, + love, and perseverance;[f] and, when with others, in a known tongue.[g] + verses: + a: + - Phil.4.6 + b: + - Ps.65.2 + c: + - John.14.13-John.14.14 + - 1Pet.2.5 + d: + - Rom.8.26 + e: + - 1John.5.14 + f: + - Gen.18.27 + - Ps.47.7 + - Eccl.5.1-Eccl.5.2 + - Matt.6.12 + - Matt.6.14-Matt.6.15 + - Mark.11.24 + - Eph.6.18 + - Col.4.2 + - Heb.12.28 + - Jas.1.6-Jas.1.7 + - Jas.5.16 + g: + - 1Cor.14.14 + - number: 4 + text: > + Prayer is to be made for things lawful,[a] and for all sorts of men living, + or that shall live hereafter;[b] but not for the dead,[c] nor for those + of whom it may be known that they have sinned the sin unto death.[d] + verses: + a: + - 1John.5.14 + b: + - Ruth.4.12 + - 2Sam.7.29 + - John.17.20 + - 1Tim.2.1-1Tim.2.2 + c: + - 2Sam.12.21-2Sam.12.23 + - Luke.16.25-Luke.16.26 + - Rev.14.13 + d: + - 1John.5.16 + - number: 5 + text: > + The reading of the Scriptures, preaching, and hearing the Word of God, + singing of psalms; as also the administration of baptism and the + Lord's Supper, are all parts of religious worship of God, to be + performed in obedience unto God with understanding, faith, reverence, + and godly fear. Solemn humiliations, with fastings and thanksgivings + upon special occasions, are in their several times and seasons to be + used in a holy and religious manner. + verses: {} + - number: 6 + text: > + Neither prayer, nor any other part of religious worship, is now, under the + gospel, either tied unto, or made more acceptable by any place in which + it is performed, or towards which it is directed:[a] but God is to be worshipped + everywhere[b] in spirit and truth;[c] as in private families[d] daily,[e] + and in secret each one by himself,[f] so more solemnly in the public assemblies, + which are not carelessly or willfully to be neglected or forsaken, when + God, by his Word or providence, calleth thereunto.[g] + verses: + a: + - John.4.21 + b: + - Mal.1.11 + - 1Tim.2.8 + c: + - John.4.23-John.4.24 + d: + - Deut.6.6-Deut.6.7 + - 2Sam.6.18 + - 2Sam.6.20 + - Job.1.5 + - Jer.10.25 + - Acts.10.2 + - 1Pet.3.7 + e: + - Matt.6.11 + f: + - Matt.6.6 + - Eph.6.18 + g: + - Isa.56.6-Isa.56.7 + - Prov.1.20-Prov.1.21 + - Prov.1.24 + - Prov.8.34 + - Luke.4.16 + - Acts.2.42 + - Acts.13.42 + - Heb.10.25 + - number: 7 + text: > + As it is of the law of nature that, in general, a due proportion of + time by God's appointment be set apart for the worship of God; so, by + his Word, in a positive, moral, and perpetual commandment, binding all + men in all ages, he hath particularly appointed one day in seven for a + Sabbath, to be kept holy unto him:[a] which, from the beginning of the + world to the resurrection of Christ, was the last day of the week; + and, from the resurrection of Christ, was changed into the first day + of the week,[b] which in Scripture is called the Lord's day,[c] and is + to be continued to the end of the world, as the Christian Sabbath,[d] + the observation of the last day of the week being abolished. + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.8 + - Exod.20.10-Exod.20.11 + - Isa.56.2 + - Isa.56.4 + - Isa.56.6-Isa.56.7 + b: + - Gen.2.2-Gen.2.3 + - Acts.20.7 + - 1Cor.16.1-1Cor.16.2 + c: + - Rev.1.10 + d: + - Exod.20.8 + - Exod.20.10 + - Matt.5.17-Matt.5.18 + - number: 8 + text: > + This Sabbath is then kept holy unto the Lord, when men, after a due preparing + of their hearts, and ordering of their common affairs beforehand, do not + only observe an holy rest all the day from their own works, words, and thoughts, + about their worldly employments and recreations;[a] but also are taken up + the whole time in the public and private exercises of his worship, and in + the duties of necessity and mercy.[b] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.8 + - Exod.16.23 + - Exod.16.25-Exod.16.26 + - Exod.16.29-Exod.16.30 + - Exod.31.15-Exod.31.17 + - Isa.58.13 + - Neh.13.15-Neh.13.22 + b: + - Isa.58.13 + - Matt.12.1-Matt.12.13 + - name: Of Lawful Oaths and Vows + number: 23 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + A lawful oath is a part of religious worship,[a] wherein the person + swearing in truth, righteousness and judgment, solemnly calleth God to + witness what he asserteth or promiseth; and to judge him according to + the truth or falsehood of what he sweareth.[b] + verses: + a: + - Deut.10.20 + b: + - Exod.20.7 + - Lev.19.12 + - 2Chr.6.22-2Chr.6.23 + - 2Cor.1.23 + - number: 2 + text: > + The name of God only is that by which men ought to swear, and therein it + is to be used with all holy fear and reverence;[a] therefore to swear vainly + or rashly by that glorious and dreadful name, or to swear at all by any + other thing, is sinful, and to be abhorred.[b] Yet as, in matters of weight + and moment, an oath is warranted by the Word of God, under the New Testament, + as well as under the Old,[c] so a lawful oath, being imposed by lawful authority, + in such matters ought to be taken.[d] + verses: + a: + - Deut.6.13 + b: + - Exod.20.7 + - Jer.5.7 + - Matt.5.34 + - Matt.5.37 + - Jas.5.12 + c: + - Isa.65.16 + - 2Cor.1.23 + - Heb.6.16 + d: + - 1Kgs.8.31 + - Ezra.10.25 + - Neh.13.25 + - number: 3 + text: > + Whosoever taketh an oath, warranted by the Word of God, ought duly to + consider the weightiness of so solemn an act, and therein to avouch + nothing but what he is fully persuaded is the truth.[a] Neither may + any man bind himself by oath to anything but what is good and just, + and what he believeth so to be, and what he is able and resolved to + perform.[b] Yet it is a sin to refuse an oath touching anything that + is good and just, being imposed by lawful authority.[c] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.7 + - Jer.4.2 + b: + - Gen.24.2-Gen.24.3 + - Gen.24.5-Gen.24.6 + - Gen.24.8-Gen.24.9 + c: + - Exod.22.7-Exod.22.11 + - Num.5.19 + - Num.5.21 + - Neh.5.12 + - number: 4 + text: > + An oath is to be taken in the plain and common sense of the words, without + equivocation or mental reservation.[a] It cannot oblige to sin; but in anything + not sinful, being taken, it binds to performance, although to a man's own + hurt:[b] nor is it to be violated, although made to heretics or infidels.[c] + verses: + a: + - Ps.24.4 + - Jer.4.2 + b: + - 1Sam.25.22 + - 1Sam.25.32-1Sam.25.34 + - Ps.15.4 + c: + - Ezek.17.16 + - Ezek.17.18-Ezek.17.19 + - Josh.9.18-Josh.9.19 + - 2Sam.21.1 + - number: 5 + text: > + A vow which is of the like nature with a promissory oath, and ought to be made + with the like religious care, and to be performed with the like faithfulness.[a] + verses: + a: + - Isa.19.21 + - Ps.61.8 + - Ps.66.13-Ps.66.14 + - Eccl.5.4-Eccl.5.6 + - number: 6 + text: > + Popish monastical vows of perpetual single life, professed poverty, + and regular obedience, are so far from being degrees of higher + perfection, that they are superstitious and sinful snares, in which no + Christian may entangle himself. + verses: {} + - name: Of the Civil Magistrate + number: 24 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + God, the Supreme Lord and King of all the world, hath ordained civil magistrates + to be under him, over the people, for his own glory and the public good, + and to this end hath armed them with the power of the sword, for the defense + and encouragement of them that do good, and for the punishment of evil-doers.[a] + verses: + a: + - Rom.13.1-Rom.13.4 + - 1Pet.2.13-1Pet.2.14 + - number: 2 + text: > + It is lawful for Christians to accept and execute the office of a magistrate + when called thereunto;[a] in the management whereof, as they ought especially + to maintain piety, justice, and peace, according to the wholesome laws of + each commonwealth,[b] so, for that end, they may lawfully, now under the + New Testament, wage war upon just and necessary occasion.[c] + verses: + a: + - Prov.8.15-Prov.8.16 + - Rom.13.1-Rom.13.2 + - Rom.13.4 + b: + - 2Sam.23.3 + - Ps.2.10-Ps.2.12 + - Ps.82.3-Ps.82.4 + - 1Tim.2.2 + - 1Pet.2.13 + c: + - Matt.8.9-Matt.8.10 + - Luke.3.14 + - Acts.10.1-Acts.10.2 + - Rom.13.4 + - Rev.17.14 + - Rev.17.16 + - number: 3 + text: > + Although the magistrate is bound to encourage, promote, and protect + the professors and profession of the gospel, and to manage and order + civil administrations in a due subserviency to the interest of Christ + in the world, and to that end to take care that men of corrupt minds + and conversations do not licentiously publish and divulge blasphemy + and errors, in their own nature subverting the faith and inevitably + destroying the souls of them that receive them: yet in such + differences about the doctrines of the gospel, or ways of the worship + of God, as may befall men exercising a good conscience, manifesting it + in their conversation, and holding the foundation, not disturbing + others in their ways or worship that differ from them; there is no + warrant for the magistrate under the gospel to abridge them of their + liberty. + verses: {} + - number: 4 + text: > + It is the duty of people to pray for magistrates,[a] to honor their persons,[b] + to pay them tribute and other dues,[c] to obey their lawful commands, and + to be subject to their authority, for conscience' sake.[d] Infidelity or + difference in religion doth not make void the magistrate's just and legal + authority, nor free the people from their due obedience to him:[e] from + which ecclesiastical persons are not exempted;[f] much less hath the Pope + any power or jurisdiction over them in their dominions, or over any of their + people; and least of all to deprive them of their dominions or lives, if + he shall judge them to be heretics, or upon any other pretense whatsoever.[g] + verses: + a: + - 1Tim.2.1-1Tim.2.2 + b: + - 1Pet.2.17 + c: + - Rom.13.6-Rom.13.7 + d: + - Rom.13.5 + - Titus.1.3 + e: + - 1Pet.2.13-1Pet.2.14 + - 1Pet.2.16 + f: + - 1Kgs.2.35 + - Acts.25.9-Acts.25.11 + - Rom.13.1 + - 2Pet.2.1 + - 2Pet.2.10-2Pet.2.11 + - Jude.1.8-Jude.1.11 + g: + - 2Thess.2.4 + - Rev.13.15-Rev.13.17 + - name: Of Marriage + number: 25 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Marriage is to be between one man and one woman: neither is it lawful for + any man to have more than one wife, nor for any woman to have more than + one husband at the same time.[a] + verses: + a: + - Gen.2.24 + - Prov.2.17 + - Matt.19.5-Matt.19.6 + - number: 2 + text: > + Marriage was ordained for the mutual help of husband and wife;[a] for the + increase of mankind with a legitimate issue, and of the Church with an holy + seed;[b] and for preventing of uncleanness.[c] + verses: + a: + - Gen.2.18 + b: + - Mal.2.15 + c: + - 1Cor.7.2 + - 1Cor.7.9 + - number: 3 + text: > + It is lawful for all sorts of people to marry who are able with judgment + to give their consent.[a] Yet it is the duty of Christians to marry only + in the Lord.[b] And therefore, such as profess the true reformed religion + should not marry with infidels, Papists, or other idolaters: neither should + such as are godly be unequally yoked, by marrying with such as are notoriously + wicked in their life, or maintain damnable heresies.[c] + verses: + a: + - Gen.24.57-Gen.24.58 + - 1Cor.7.36-1Cor.7.38 + - Heb.13.4 + - 1Tim.4.3 + b: + - 1Cor.7.39 + c: + - Gen.34.14 + - Exod.34.16 + - Deut.7.3-Deut.7.4 + - 1Kgs.11.4 + - Neh.13.25-Neh.13.27 + - Mal.2.11-Mal.2.12 + - 2Cor.6.14 + - number: 4 + text: > + Marriage ought not to be within the degrees of consanguinity or affinity + forbidden in the Word;[a] nor can such incestuous marriages ever be made + lawful by any law of man, or consent of parties, so as those persons may + live together as man and wife.[b] The man may not marry any of his wife's + kindred nearer in blood than he may of his own, nor the woman of her husband's + kindred nearer in blood than of her own.[c] + verses: + a: + - Lev.18 + - Amos.2.7 + - 1Cor.5.1 + b: + - Lev.18.24-Lev.18.28 + - Mark.6.18 + c: + - Lev.20.19-Lev.20.21 + - name: Of the Church + number: 26 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + The catholic or universal Church, which is invisible, consists of the whole + number of the elect, that have been, are, or shall be gathered into one, + under Christ the head thereof; and is the spouse, the body, the fulness + of him that filleth all in all.[a] + verses: + a: + - Eph.1.10 + - Eph.1.22-Eph.1.23 + - Eph.5.23 + - Eph.5.27 + - Eph.5.32 + - Col.1.18 + - number: 2 + text: > + + The whole body of men throughout the world, professing the faith of + the gospel and obedience unto God by Christ according to it, not + destroying their own profession by any errors everting the foundation, + or unholiness of conversation, are, and may be called the visible + catholic church of Christ; although as such it is not entrusted with + the administration of any ordinances, or have any officers to rule or + govern in, or over the whole body. + verses: {} + - number: 3 + text: > + The purest churches under heaven are subject both to mixture and + error, and some have so degenerated as to become no churches of + Christ, but synagogues of Satan: nevertheless Christ always hath had, + and ever shall have, a visible kingdom in this world, to the end + thereof, of such as believe in him, and make profession of his name. + verses: {} + - number: 4 + text: > + There is no other Head of the Church but the Lord Jesus Christ; nor + can the Pope of Rome in any sense be head thereof; but is that + antichrist, that man of sin, and son of perdition, that exalteth + himself in the Church against Christ, and all that is called God, whom + the Lord shall destroy with the brightness of his coming. + verses: {} + - number: 5 + text: > + As the Lord in his care and love towards his Church, hath in his + infinite wise providence exercised it with great variety in all ages, + for the good of them that love him, and his own glory; so according to + his promise, we expect that in the latter days, antichrist being + destroyed, the Jews called, and the adversaries of the kingdom of his + dear Son broken, the churches of Christ being enlarged, and edified + through a free and plentiful communication of light and grace, shall + enjoy in this world a more quiet, peaceable and glorious condition + than they have enjoyed. + verses: {} + - name: Of the Communion of Saints + number: 27 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + All saints that are united to Jesus Christ their head, by his Spirit and + by faith, although they are not made thereby one person with him + have fellowship with him in his graces, sufferings, death, resurrection, + and glory:[a] and being united to one another in love, they have communion + in each other's gifts and graces,[b] and are obliged to the performance + of such duties, public and private, as do conduce to their mutual good, + both in the inward and outward man.[c] + verses: + a: + - John.1.16 + - Rom.6.5-Rom.6.6 + - Eph.2.5-Eph.2.6 + - Eph.3.16-Eph.3.19 + - Phil.3.10 + - 2Tim.2.12 + - 1John.1.3 + b: + - 1Cor.3.21-1Cor.3.23 + - 1Cor.12.7 + - Eph.4.15-Eph.4.16 + - Col.2.19 + c: + - Rom.1.11-Rom.1.12 + - Rom.1.14 + - Gal.6.10 + - 1Thess.5.11 + - 1Thess.5.14 + - 1John.3.16-1John.3.18 + - number: 2 + text: > + All saints, by profession, are bound to maintain an holy fellowship + and communion in the worship of God, and in performing such other + spiritual services as tend to their mutual edification;[a] as also in + relieving each other in outward things, according to their several + abilities and necessities. Which communion, though especially to be + exercised by them in the relations wherein they stand, whether in + families or churches, yet as God offereth opportunity, is to be + extended unto all those who, in every place, call upon the name of the + Lord Jesus.[b] + verses: + a: + - Isa.2.3 + - Acts.2.42 + - Acts.2.46 + - 1Cor.11.20 + - Heb.10.24-Heb.10.25 + b: + - Acts.2.44-Acts.2.45 + - Acts.11.29-Acts.11.30 + - 2Cor.8-2Cor.9 + - 1John.3.17 + - name: Of the Sacraments + number: 28 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Sacraments are holy signs and seals of the covenant of grace,[a] + immediately instituted by Christ,[b] to represent him and his + benefits, and to confirm our interest in him:[c] and solemnly to + engage us to the service of God in Christ, according to his Word.[e] + verses: + a: + - Gen.17.7 + - Gen.17.10 + - Rom.4.11 + b: + - Matt.28.19 + - 1Cor.11.23 + c: + - 1Cor.10.16 + - 1Cor.11.25-1Cor.11.26 + - Gal.3.27 + e: + - Rom.6.3-Rom.6.4 + - 1Cor.10.16 + - 1Cor.10.21 + - number: 2 + text: > + There is in every sacrament a spiritual relation or sacramental union, between + the sign and the thing signified; whence it comes to pass that the names + and the effects of the one are attributed to the other.[a] + verses: + a: + - Gen.17.10 + - Matt.26.27-Matt.26.28 + - Titus.3.5 + - number: 3 + text: > + The grace which is exhibited in or by the sacraments, rightly used, is not + conferred by any power in them; neither doth the efficacy of a sacrament + depend upon the piety or intention of him that doth administer it,[a] but + upon the work of the Spirit,[b] and the word of institution, which contains, + together with a precept authorizing the use thereof, a promise of benefit + to worthy receivers.[c] + verses: + a: + - Rom.2.28-Rom.2.29 + - 1Pet.3.21 + b: + - Matt.3.11 + - 1Cor.12.13 + c: + - Matt.26.27-Matt.26.28 + - number: 4 + text: > + There be only two sacraments ordained by Christ our Lord in the Gospel, + that is to say, Baptism and the Lord's Supper: neither of which may + be dispensed by any but by a minister of the Word lawfully called.[a] + verses: + a: + - Matt.28.19-Matt.28.20 + - Matt.28.19 + - 1Cor.4.1 + - 1Cor.11.20 + - 1Cor.11.23 + - Heb.5.4 + - number: 5 + text: > + The sacraments of the Old Testament, in regard of the spiritual things thereby + signified and exhibited, were, for substance, the same with those of the + New.[a] + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.10.1-1Cor.10.4 + - name: Of Baptism + number: 29 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Baptism is a sacrament of the New Testament, ordained by Jesus + Christ,[a] to be unto the party baptised a sign and seal of the + covenant of grace,[c] of his ingrafting into Christ,[d] of + regeneration,[e] of remission of sins,[f] and of his giving up unto + God, through Jesus Christ, to walk in newness of life:[g] which + ordinance is, by Christ's own appointment, to be continued in his + Church until the end of the world.[h] + verses: + a: + - Matt.28.19 + c: + - Rom.4.11 + - Col.2.11-Col.2.12 + d: + - Rom.6.5 + - Gal.3.27 + e: + - Titus.3.5 + f: + - Mark.1.4 + g: + - Rom.6.3-Rom.6.4 + h: + - Matt.28.19-Matt.28.20 + - number: 2 + text: > + The outward element to be used in this ordinance is water, wherewith the + party is to be baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of + the Holy Ghost, by a minister of the gospel lawfully called thereunto.[a] + verses: + a: + - Matt.3.11 + - Matt.28.19-Matt.28.20 + - John.1.33 + - number: 3 + text: > + Dipping of the person into the water is not necessary; but baptism is rightly + administered by pouring or sprinkling water upon the person.[a] + verses: + a: + - Mark.7.4 + - Acts.2.41 + - Acts.16.33 + - Heb.9.10 + - Heb.9.19-Heb.9.22 + - number: 4 + text: > + Not only those that do actually profess faith in and obedience unto Christ,[a] + but also the infants of one or both believing parents are to be + baptized,[b] and those only. + verses: + a: + - Mark.16.15-Mark.16.16 + - Acts.8.37-Acts.8.38 + b: + - Gen.17.7 + - Gen.17.9 + - Gal.3.9 + - Gal.3.14 + - Col.2.11-Col.2.12 + - Acts.2.38-Acts.2.39 + - Rom.4.11-Rom.4.12 + - Matt.28.19 + - Mark.10.13-Mark.10.16 + - Luke.18.15 + - 1Cor.7.14 + - number: 5 + text: > + Although it be a great sin to contemn or neglect this ordinance,[a] yet + grace and salvation are not so inseparably annexed unto it, as that no person + can be regenerated or saved without it,[b] or that all that are baptized + are undoubtedly regenerated.[c] + verses: + a: + - Luke.7.30 + - Exod.4.24-Exod.4.26 + b: + - Acts.10.2 + - Acts.10.4 + - Acts.10.22 + - Acts.10.31 + - Acts.10.45 + - Acts.10.47 + - Rom.4.11 + c: + - Acts.8.13 + - Acts.8.23 + - number: 6 + text: > + The efficacy of baptism is not tied to that moment of time wherein it is + administered;[a] yet, notwithstanding, by the right use of this ordinance + the grace promised is not only offered, but really exhibited and conferred + by the Holy Ghost, to such (whether of age or infants) as that grace belongeth + unto, according to the counsel of God's own will, in his appointed time.[b] + verses: + a: + - John.3.5 + - John.3.8 + b: + - Acts.2.38 + - Acts.2.41 + - Gal.3.27 + - Eph.5.25-Eph.5.26 + - Titus.3.5 + - number: 7 + text: The sacrament of baptism is but once to be administered to any person.[a] + verses: + a: + - Titus.3.5 + - name: Of the Lord's Supper + number: 30 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Our Lord Jesus, in the night wherein he was betrayed, instituted the + sacrament of his body and blood, called the Lord's Supper, to be + observed in his churches, to the end of the world; for the perpetual + remembrance and showing forth of the sacrifice of himself in his + death, the sealing of all benefits thereof unto true believers, their + spiritual nourishment and growth in him, their further engagement in + and to all duties which they owe unto him; and to be a bond and pledge + of their communion with him, and with each other, as members of his + mystical body.[a] + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.10.16-1Cor.10.17 + - 1Cor.10.21 + - 1Cor.11.23-1Cor.11.26 + - 1Cor.12.13 + - number: 2 + text: > + In this sacrament Christ is not offered up to his Father, nor any real sacrifice + made at all for remission of sins of the quick or dead,[a] but only a memorial + of that one offering up of himself, by himself, upon the cross, once for + all, and a spiritual oblation of all possible praise unto God for the same;[b] + so that the Popish sacrifice of the mass, as they call it, is most abominable, + injurious to Christ's own only sacrifice, the alone propitiation for all + the sins of the elect.[c] + verses: + a: + - Heb.9.22 + - Heb.9.25-Heb.9.26 + - Heb.9.28 + b: + - Matt.26.26-Matt.26.27 + - 1Cor.11.24-1Cor.11.26 + c: + - Heb.7.23-Heb.7.24 + - Heb.7.27 + - Heb.10.11-Heb.10.12 + - Heb.10.14 + - Heb.10.18 + - number: 3 + text: > + The Lord Jesus hath, in this ordinance, appointed his ministers to declare + his word of institution to the people, to pray, and bless the elements of + bread and wine, and thereby to set them apart from a common to an holy use; + and to take and break the bread, to take the cup, and (they communicating + also themselves) to give both to the communicants;[a] but to none who are + not then present in the congregation.[b] + verses: + a: + - Matt.26.26-Matt.26.28 + - Mark.14.22-Mark.14.24 + - Luke.22.19-Luke.22.20 + - 1Cor.11.23-1Cor.11.27 + b: + - Acts.20.7 + - 1Cor.11.20 + - number: 4 + text: > + Private masses, or receiving this sacrament by a priest, or any other, alone;[a] + as likewise the denial of the cup to the people;[b] worshipping the elements, + the lifting them up, or carrying them about for adoration, and the reserving + them for any pretended religious use, are all contrary to the nature of + this sacrament, and to the institution of Christ.[c] + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.10.6 + b: + - Mark.4.23 + - 1Cor.11.25-1Cor.11.29 + c: + - Matt.15.9 + - number: 5 + text: > + The outward elements in this sacrament, duly set apart to the uses ordained + by Christ, have such relation to him crucified, as that truly, yet sacramentally + only, they are sometimes called by the name of the things they represent, + to wit, the body and blood of Christ;[a] albeit, in substance and nature, + they still remain truly, and only, bread and wine, as they were before.[b] + verses: + a: + - Matt.26.26-Matt.26.28 + b: + - Matt.26.29 + - 1Cor.11.26-1Cor.11.28 + - number: 6 + text: > + That doctrine which maintains a change of the substance of bread and wine, + into the substance of Christ's body and blood (commonly called transubstantiation) + by consecration of a priest, or by any other way, is repugnant, not to Scripture + alone, but even to common sense and reason; overthroweth the nature of the + sacrament; and hath been, and is the cause of manifold superstitions, yea, + of gross idolatries.[a] + verses: + a: + - Luke.24.6 + - Luke.24.39 + - Acts.3.21 + - 1Cor.11.24-1Cor.11.26 + - number: 7 + text: > + Worthy receivers, outwardly partaking of the visible elements in this sacrament,[a] + do then also inwardly by faith, really and indeed, yet not carnally and + corporally, but spiritually, receive and feed upon Christ crucified, and + all benefits of his death: the body and blood of Christ being then not corporally + or carnally in, with, or under the bread and wine; yet as really, but spiritually, + present to the faith of believers in that ordinance, as the elements themselves + are, to their outward senses.[b] + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.11.28 + b: + - 1Cor.10.16 + - number: 8 + text: > + All ignorant and ungodly persons, as they are unfit to enjoy communion + with Christ, so are they unworthy of the Lord's table, and cannot + without great sin against him, while they remain such, partake of + these holy mysteries, or be admitted thereunto; yea, whosoever shall + receive unworthily, are guilty of the body and blood of the Lord, + eating and drinking judgment to themselves. + verses: {} + - name: Of the State of Men after Death, and of the Resurrection of the Dead + number: 31 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + The bodies of men, after death, return to dust, and see corruption;[a] but + their souls (which neither die nor sleep), having an immortal subsistence,[b] + immediately return to God who gave them. The souls of the righteous, being + then made perfect in holiness, are received into the highest heavens, where + they behold the face of God in light and glory, waiting for the full redemption + of their bodies:[c] and the souls of the wicked are cast into hell, where + they remain in torment and utter darkness, reserved to the judgment of + the great day.[d] Besides these two places for souls separated from their + bodies, the Scripture acknowledgeth none. + verses: + a: + - Gen.3.19 + - Acts.13.36 + b: + - Eccl.12.7 + - Luke.23.43 + c: + - Phil.1.23 + - Acts.3.21 + - Eph.4.10 + - 2Cor.5.1 + - 2Cor.5.6 + - 2Cor.5.8 + - Heb.12.23 + d: + - Luke.16.23-Luke.16.24 + - Acts.1.25 + - 1Pet.3.19 + - Jude.1.6-Jude.1.7 + - number: 2 + text: > + At the last day, such as are found alive shall not die, but be changed;[a] + and all the dead shall be raised up with the self-same bodies, and none + other, although with different qualities, which shall be united again to + their souls forever.[b] + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.15.51-1Cor.15.52 + - 1Thess.4.17 + b: + - Job.19.26-Job.19.27 + - 1Cor.15.42-1Cor.15.44 + - number: 3 + text: > + The bodies of the unjust shall, by the power of Christ, be raised to dishonor; + the bodies of the just, by his Spirit, unto honor, and be made conformable + to his own glorious body.[a] + verses: + a: + - John.5.28-John.5.29 + - Acts.24.15 + - 1Cor.15.42 + - Phil.3.21 + - name: Of the Last Judgment + number: 32 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + God hath appointed a day wherein he will judge the world in + righteousness by Jesus Christ,[a] to whom all power and judgment is + given of the Father.[b] In which day, not only the apostate angels + shall be judged,[c] but likewise all persons, that have lived upon + earth, shall appear before the tribunal of Christ, to give an account + of their thoughts, words, and deeds; and to receive according to what + they have done in the body, whether good or evil.[d] + verses: + a: + - Acts.17.31 + b: + - John.5.22 + c: + - 1Cor.6.3 + - 2Pet.2.4 + - Jude.1.6 + d: + - Eccl.12.14 + - Matt.12.36-Matt.12.37 + - Rom.2.16 + - Rom.14.10 + - Rom.14.12 + - 2Cor.5.12 + - number: 2 + text: > + The end of God’s appointing this day, is for the manifestation of the + glory of his mercy in the eternal salvation of the elect;[a] and of + his justice in the damnation of the reprobate, who are wicked and + disobedient.[b] For then shall the righteous go into everlasting life, + and receive that fulness of joy glory, with everlasting reward in + the presence of the Lord:[c] but the wicked, who know not God, and + obey not the gospel of Jesus Christ, shall be cast into eternal + torments, and be punished with everlasting destruction from the + presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power.[d] + verses: + a: + - Matt.25.21 + - Rom.9.23 + b: + - Rom.2.5-Rom.2.6 + - Rom.9.22 + - 2Thess.1.7-2Thess.1.8 + c: + - Matt.25.31-Matt.25.24 + - Acts.3.19 + - 2Thess.1.7 + d: + - Matt.25.41 + - Matt.25.46 + - 2Thess.1.9 + - number: 3 + text: > + + As Christ would have us to be certainly persuaded that there shall be + a day of judgment, both to deter all men from sin, and for the greater + consolation of the godly in their adversity:[a] so will he have that day + unknown to men, that they may shake off all carnal security, and be + always watchful, because they know not at what hour the Lord will + come; and may be ever prepared to say, Come, Lord Jesus, come + quickly. Amen.[b] + verses: + a: + - Luke.21.27-Luke.21.28 + - Rom.8.23-Rom.8.25 + - 2Cor.5.10-2Cor.5.11 + - 2Thess.1.5-2Thess.1.7 + - 2Pet.3.11 + - 2Pet.3.14 + b: + - Matt.24.36 + - Matt.24.42-Matt.24.44 + - Mark.13.35-Mark.13.37 + - Luke.12.35-Luke.12.36 + - Rev.22.20 +... diff --git a/data/html/nashville-wcf.html b/data/html/nashville-wcf.html new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..913f1a6db22ba8b671003f55da428959bc060fff --- /dev/null +++ b/data/html/nashville-wcf.html @@ -0,0 +1,426 @@ +<h1 class="text-center">Nashville Statement Compared to the Westminster Confession of Faith</h1> + +<p class="text-center"> + Prepared by <a href="https://presbyterianreformed.org/prc-columbus-in/">Rev + Bryan Peters</a>, a minister of the gospel in the Presbyterian Reformed + Church. Published with permission. +</p> + +<div class="row" style="margin-top: 200px;"> + <div class="col-lg-4"> + <h3>Nashville Statement</h3> + </div> + <div class="col-lg-4 offset-lg-4"> + <h3>Westminster Confession of Faith</h3> + </div> +</div> + +<hr> +<div class="row"> + <div class="col-lg-4"> + <p> + + Article 1 WE AFFIRM that God has designed marriage to be a covenantal, + sexual, procreative, lifelong union of one man and one woman, as husband + and wife, and is meant to signify the covenant love between Christ and + his bride the church. WE DENY that God has designed marriage to be a + homosexual, polygamous, or polyamorous relationship. We also deny that + marriage is a mere human contract rather than a covenant made before + God. + + </p> + </div> + <div class="col-lg-4 offset-lg-4"> + <p> + + <strong>WCF XXIV.I</strong> Marriage is to be between one man and one woman: neither is + it lawful for any man to have more than one wife, nor for any woman to + have more than one husband at the same time. + + </p> + + <p> + + <strong>WCF XXIV.II</strong> Marriage was ordained for the mutual help of + husband and wife; for the increase of mankind with a + legitimate issue, and of the Church with an holy seed; and for + preventing of uncleanness. + + </p> + + <p> + + <strong>WLC Q. 20</strong>. What was the providence of God toward man in the estate in + which he was created? A. The providence of God toward man in the estate + in which he was created, was the placing him in paradise, appointing him + to dress it, giving him liberty to eat of the fruit of the earth; + putting the creatures under his dominion, and <i>ordaining marriage for his + help</i>; affording him communion with Himself; instituting the Sabbath; + entering into a covenant of life with him, upon condition of personal, + perfect, and perpetual obedience, of which the tree of life was a + pledge; and forbidding to eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, + upon the pain of death. + + </p> + + </div> +</div> + +<hr> +<div class="row"> + <div class="col-lg-4"> + + <p> + + Article 2 WE AFFIRM that God’s revealed will for all people is chastity + outside of marriage and fidelity within marriage. WE DENY that any + affections, desires, or commitments ever justify sexual intercourse before + or outside marriage; nor do they justify any form of sexual immorality. + + </p> + </div> + <div class="col-lg-4 offset-lg-4"> + <p> + + <strong>WLC Q. 138</strong>. What are the duties required in the seventh + commandment? A. The duties required in the seventh commandment are, + chastity in body, mind, affections, words, and behavior; and the + preservation of it in ourselves and others; watchfulness over the eyes + and all the senses; temperance, keeping of chaste company, modesty in + apparel; marriage by those that have not the gift of continency, + conjugal love, and cohabitation; diligent labor in all our callings; + shunning all occasions of uncleanness, and resisting temptations + thereunto. </p> + + <p> + + <strong>WLC Q. 139</strong>. What are the sins forbidden in the seventh + commandment? A. The sins forbidden in the seventh commandment, besides + the neglect of the duties required, are, adultery, fornication, rape, + incest, sodomy, and all unnatural lusts; all unclean imaginations, + thoughts, purposes, and affections; all corrupt or filthy communications, + or listening thereunto; wanton looks; impudent or light behavior; immodest + apparel; prohibiting of lawful, and dispensing with unlawful marriages; + allowing, tolerating, keeping of stews, and resorting to them; entangling + vows of single life; undue delay of marriage; having more wives or + husbands than one at the same time; unjust divorce or desertion; idleness, + gluttony, drunkenness, unchaste company; lascivious songs, books, + pictures, dancing, stage plays; all other provocations to, or acts of + uncleanness, either in ourselves or others. + + </p> + + </div> +</div> + +<hr> +<div class="row"> + <div class="col-lg-4"> + + <p> + Article 3 WE AFFIRM that God created Adam and Eve, the first human beings, in his own + image, equal before God as persons, and distinct as male and female. WE DENY that the + divinely ordained differences between male and female render them unequal in dignity or + worth. + </p> + + </div> + <div class="col-lg-4 offset-lg-4"> + <p> + <strong>WCF IV.II</strong> After God had made all other creatures, <i>he created + man, male and female, with reasonable and immortal + souls, endued with knowledge, righteousness, and true + holiness, after his own image</i>, having the law of God written in + their hearts, and power to fulfil it; and yet under a possibility of + transgressing, being left to the liberty of their own will, which + was subject unto change. + </p> + </div> +</div> + +<hr> +<div class="row"> + <div class="col-lg-4"> + <p> + Article 4 WE AFFIRM that divinely ordained differences between male and female reflect + God’s original creation design and are meant for human good and human flourishing. WE + DENY that such differences are a result of the Fall or are a tragedy to be overcome. + </p> + </div> + <div class="col-lg-4 offset-lg-4"> + <p> + <strong>WCF XXIV.I</strong> Marriage is to be between one man and one + woman... + </p> + <p> + <strong>WLC Q. 20.</strong> What was the providence of God toward man in + the estate in which he was created? + A. The providence of God toward man in the estate in which + he was created, was ... <i>ordaining marriage for his help</i> + </p> + </div> +</div> + +<hr> +<div class="row"> + <div class="col-lg-4"> + <p> + Article 5 WE AFFIRM that the differences between male and female reproductive structures + are integral to God’s design for self-conception as male or female. WE DENY that physical + anomalies or psychological conditions nullify the God-appointed link between biological sex + and self-conception as male or female. + </p> + </div> + <div class="col-lg-4 offset-lg-4"> + <p> + Assumed by the Standards as self-evident + </p> + </div> +</div> +<hr> +<div class="row"> + <div class="col-lg-4"> + <p> + Article 6 WE AFFIRM that those born with a physical disorder of sex development are + created in the image of God and have dignity and worth equal to all other image-bearers. + They are acknowledged by our Lord Jesus in his words about “eunuchs who were born that + way from their mother's womb.” With all others they are welcome as faithful followers of + Jesus Christ and should embrace their biological sex insofar as it may be known. WE DENY + that ambiguities related to a person’s biological sex render one incapable of living a fruitful + life in joyful obedience to Christ. + </p> + </div> + <div class="col-lg-4 offset-lg-4"> + <p> + Not addressed in the Standards + </p> + </div> +</div> +<hr> +<div class="row"> + <div class="col-lg-4"> + <p> + Article 7 WE AFFIRM that self-conception as male or female should be defined by God’s + holy purposes in creation and redemption as revealed in Scripture. WE DENY that adopting + a homosexual or transgender self-conception is consistent with God’s holy purposes in + creation and redemption + </p> + </div> + <div class="col-lg-4 offset-lg-4"> + <p> + Assumed by the Standards as self-evident + </p> + </div> +</div> +<hr> +<div class="row"> + <div class="col-lg-4"> + <p> + Article 8 WE AFFIRM that people who experience sexual attraction for the same sex may + live a rich and fruitful life pleasing to God through faith in Jesus Christ, as they, like all + Christians, walk in purity of life. WE DENY that sexual attraction for the same sex is part of + the natural goodness of God’s original creation, or that it puts a person outside the hope of + the gospel. + </p> + </div> + <div class="col-lg-4 offset-lg-4"> + <p> + <strong>WCF VI.V</strong> This corruption of nature, during this life, doth + remain in those that are regenerated; and although it be + through Christ pardoned and mortified, <i>yet both itself and all + the motions thereof are truly and properly sin</i>. + </p> + <p> + <strong>WCF VI.VI</strong> Every sin, both original and actual, being a + transgression of the righteous law of God, and contrary + thereunto, doth, in its own nature, bring guilt upon the + sinner, whereby he is bound over to the wrath of God and + curse of the law, and so made subject to death, with all + miseries spiritual, temporal, and eternal. + </p> + </div> +</div> +<hr> +<div class="row"> + <div class="col-lg-4"> + <p> + Article 9 WE AFFIRM that sin distorts sexual desires by directing them away from the + marriage covenant and toward sexual immorality— a distortion that includes both + heterosexual and homosexual immorality. WE DENY that an enduring pattern of desire for + sexual immorality justifies sexually immoral behavior. + </p> + </div> + <div class="col-lg-4 offset-lg-4"> + <p> + <strong>WCF VI.IV</strong> From this original corruption, whereby <i>we are + utterly indisposed, disabled, and made opposite to all + good, and wholly inclined to all evil</i>, do proceed all actual + transgressions. + </p> + <p> + <strong>WCF VI.V</strong> This corruption of nature, during this life, <i>doth + remain in those that are regenerated</i>; and although it be + through Christ pardoned and mortified, yet both itself and all + the motions thereof are truly and properly sin. + </p> + </div> +</div> +<hr> +<div class="row"> + <div class="col-lg-4"> + <p> + Article 10 WE AFFIRM that it is sinful to approve of homosexual immorality or + transgenderism and that such approval constitutes an essential departure from Christian + faithfulness and witness. WE DENY that the approval of homosexual immorality or + transgenderism is a matter of moral indifference about which otherwise faithful Christians + should agree to disagree. + </p> + <p> + Article 11 WE AFFIRM our duty to speak the truth in love at all times, including when we + speak to or about one another as male or female. WE DENY any obligation to speak in such + ways that dishonor God’s design of his imagebearers as male and female. + </p> + </div> + <div class="col-lg-4 offset-lg-4"> + + <p> + + <strong>WLC Q. 144</strong>. What are the duties required in the ninth + commandment? + A. The duties required in the ninth commandment are, <i>the + preserving and promoting of truth between man and man</i>, and + the good name of our neighbor, as well as our own: <i>appearing + and standing for the truth; and from the heart, sincerely, freely, + clearly, and fully, speaking the truth, and only the truth, in + matters of judgment and justice, and in all other things + whatsoever</i>; a charitable esteem of our neighbors; loving, + desiring, and rejoicing in their good name; sorrowing for, and + covering of their infirmities; freely acknowledging of their gifts + and graces, defending their innocency; a ready receiving of + good report, and unwillingness to admit of an evil report, + concerning them; discouraging tale-bearers, flatterers, and + slanderers; love and care of our own good name, and + defending it when need requireth; keeping of lawful promises; + study and practising of whatsoever things are true, honest, + lovely, and of good report. + + </p> + + <p> + + <strong>WLC Q. 145</strong>. What are the sins forbidden in the ninth + commandment? + A. The sins forbidden in the ninth commandment are, <i>all + prejudicing the truth</i>, and the good name of our neighbors, as + well as our own, especially in public judicature; giving false + evidence; suborning false witnesses; wittingly appearing and + pleading for an evil cause; <i>out-facing and overbearing the + truth</i>; passing unjust sentence; <i>calling evil good, and good + evil</i>; rewarding the wicked according to the work of the + righteous, and the righteous according to the work of the + wicked; forgery; <i>concealing the truth; undue silence in a just + cause, and holding our peace when iniquity calleth for either a + reproof from ourselves, or complaint to others; speaking the + truth unseasonably, or maliciously to a wrong end, or + perverting it to a wrong meaning, or in doubtful and equivocal + expressions, to the prejudice of truth or justice</i>; speaking + untruth, lying, slandering, backbiting, detracting, tale-bearing, + whispering, scoffing, reviling, rash, harsh, and partial + censuring; misconstructing intentions, words, and actions; + flattering, vain-glorious boasting, thinking or speaking too + highly or too meanly of ourselves or others; <i>denying the gifts + and graces of God</i>; aggravating smaller faults; hiding, + excusing, or extenuating of sins, when called to a free + confession; unnecessary discovering of infirmities; raising + false rumours, receiving and countenancing evil reports, and + stopping our ears against just defence; evil suspicion; envying + or grieving at the deserved credit of any, endeavouring or + desiring to impair it, rejoicing in their disgrace and infamy; + scornful contempt; fond admiration; breach of lawful promises; + neglecting such things as are of good report; and practicing or + not avoiding ourselves, or not hindering what we can in + others, such things as procure an ill name. + </p> + + </div> +</div> +<hr> +<div class="row"> + <div class="col-lg-4"> + <p> + + Article 12 WE AFFIRM that the grace of God in Christ gives both merciful pardon and + transforming power, and that this pardon and power enable a follower of Jesus to put to + death sinful desires and to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord. WE DENY that the grace of + God in Christ is insufficient to forgive all sexual sins and to give power for holiness to every + believer who feels drawn into sexual sin. + + </p> + <p> + + Article 13 WE AFFIRM that the grace of God in Christ enables sinners to forsake + transgender selfconceptions and by divine forbearance to accept the God-ordained link + between one’s biological sex and one’s self-conception as male or female. WE DENY that + the grace of God in Christ sanctions self-conceptions that are at odds with God’s revealed + will. + + </p> + </div> + <div class="col-lg-4 offset-lg-4"> + + <p> + + <strong>WCF XIII.I</strong> They who are effectually called and regenerated, + having a new heart and a new spirit created in them, are + further sanctified, really and personally, through the virtue of + Christ’s death and resurrection, by his Word and Spirit + dwelling in them; the dominion of the whole body of sin is + destroyed, and the several lusts thereof are more and more + weakened and mortified, and they more and more quickened + and strengthened, in all saving graces, to the practice of true + holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. + </p> + + <p> + <strong>WCF XIII.II</strong> This sanctification is throughout in the whole man, + yet imperfect in this life; there abideth still some remnants of + corruption in every part, whence ariseth a continual and + irreconcilable war, the flesh lusting against the spirit, and the + spirit against the flesh. + </p> + + <p> + + <strong>WCF XIII.III</strong> In which war, although the remaining corruption + for a time may much prevail, yet, through the continual supply + of strength from the sanctifying Spirit of Christ, the regenerate + part doth overcome; and so the saints grow in + grace, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. + </p> + + </div> +</div> +<hr> +<div class="row"> + <div class="col-lg-4"> + <p> + Article 14 WE AFFIRM that Christ Jesus has come into the world to save sinners and that + through Christ’s death and resurrection forgiveness of sins and eternal life are available to + every person who repents of sin and trusts in Christ alone as Savior, Lord, and supreme + treasure. WE DENY that the Lord’s arm is too short to save or that any sinner is beyond his + reach + </p> + </div> + <div class="col-lg-4 offset-lg-4"> + <p> + <strong>WCF VII.III</strong> Man by his fall having made himself incapable of + life by that covenant, the Lord was pleased to make a + second, commonly called the covenant of grace: wherein he + freely offered unto sinners life and salvation by Jesus Christ, + requiring of them faith in him that they may be saved, and + promising to give unto all those that are ordained unto life his + Holy Spirit, to make them willing and able to believe. + </p> + </div> +</div> +<hr> diff --git a/data/miscellany/catechism-young-children.yaml b/data/miscellany/catechism-young-children.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..7a7749260721b636e6c626bfacff28fddd4b98b4 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/miscellany/catechism-young-children.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,772 @@ +--- +name: Catechism for Young Children +type: catechism +publication_year: 1800 +questions: + - number: 1 + question: Who made you? + answer: >- + God. + verses: {} + - number: 2 + question: What else did God make? + answer: >- + God made all things. + verses: {} + - number: 3 + question: Why did God make you and all things? + answer: >- + For his own glory. + verses: {} + - number: 4 + question: How can you glorify God? + answer: >- + By loving him and doing what he commands. + verses: {} + - number: 5 + question: Why ought you to glorify God? + answer: >- + Because he made me and takes care of me. + verses: {} + - number: 6 + question: Are there more gods than one? + answer: >- + There is only one God. + verses: {} + - number: 7 + question: In how many persons does this one God exist? + answer: >- + In three persons. + verses: {} + - number: 8 + question: What are they? + answer: >- + The Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. + verses: {} + - number: 9 + question: What is God? + answer: >- + God is a Spirit, and has not a body like men. + verses: {} + - number: 10 + question: Where is God? + answer: >- + God is everywhere. + verses: {} + - number: 11 + question: Can you see God? + answer: >- + No; I cannot see God, but he always sees me. + verses: {} + - number: 12 + question: Does God know all things? + answer: >- + Yes; nothing can be hid from God. + verses: {} + - number: 13 + question: Can God do all things? + answer: >- + Yes; God can do all his holy will. + verses: {} + - number: 14 + question: Where do you learn how to love and obey God? + answer: >- + In the Bible alone. + verses: {} + - number: 15 + question: Who wrote the Bible? + answer: >- + Holy men who were taught by the Holy Spirit. + verses: {} + - number: 16 + question: Who were our first parents? + answer: >- + Adam and Eve. + verses: {} + - number: 17 + question: Of what were our first parents made? + answer: >- + God made the body of Adam out of the ground, and formed Eve from the + body of Adam. + verses: {} + - number: 18 + question: What did God give Adam and Eve besides bodies? + answer: >- + He gave them souls that could never die. + verses: {} + - number: 19 + question: Have you a soul as well as a body? + answer: >- + Yes; I have a soul that can never die. + verses: {} + - number: 20 + question: How do you know that you have a soul? + answer: >- + Because the Bible tells me so. + verses: {} + - number: 21 + question: In what condition did God make Adam and Eve? + answer: >- + He made them holy and happy. + verses: {} + - number: 22 + question: What is a covenant? + answer: >- + An agreement between two or more persons. + verses: {} + - number: 23 + question: What covenant did God make with Adam? + answer: >- + The covenant of works. + verses: {} + - number: 24 + question: What was Adam bound to do by the covenant of works? + answer: >- + To obey God perfectly. + verses: {} + - number: 25 + question: What did God promise in the covenant of works? + answer: >- + To reward Adam with life if he obeyed him. + verses: {} + - number: 26 + question: What did God threaten in the covenant of works? + answer: >- + To punish Adam with death if he disobeyed. + verses: {} + - number: 27 + question: Did Adam keep the covenant of works? + answer: >- + No; he sinned against God. + verses: {} + - number: 28 + question: What is Sin? + answer: >- + Sin is any want of conformity unto, or transgression of the law of + God. + verses: {} + - number: 29 + question: What is meant by want of conformity? + answer: >- + Not being or doing what God requires. + verses: {} + - number: 30 + question: What is meant by transgression? + answer: >- + Doing what God forbids. + verses: {} + - number: 31 + question: What was the sin of our first parents? + answer: >- + Eating the forbidden fruit. + verses: {} + - number: 32 + question: Who tempted them to this sin? + answer: >- + The devil tempted Eve, and she gave the fruit to Adam. + verses: {} + - number: 33 + question: What befell our first parents when they had sinned? + answer: >- + Instead of being holy and happy, they became sinful and miserable. + verses: {} + - number: 34 + question: Did Adam act for himself alone in the covenant of works? + answer: >- + No; he represented all his posterity. + verses: {} + - number: 35 + question: What effect had the sin of Adam on all mankind? + answer: >- + All mankind are born in a state of sin and misery. + verses: {} + - number: 36 + question: What is that sinful nature which we inherit from Adam called? + answer: >- + Original sin. + verses: {} + - number: 37 + question: What does every sin deserve? + answer: >- + The wrath and curse of God. + verses: {} + - number: 38 + question: Can any one go to heaven with this sinful nature? + answer: >- + No; our hearts must be changed before we can be fit for heaven. + verses: {} + - number: 39 + question: What is a change of heart called? + answer: >- + Regeneration. + verses: {} + - number: 40 + question: Who can change a sinner's heart? + answer: >- + The Holy Spirit alone. + verses: {} + - number: 41 + question: Can any one be saved through the covenant of works? + answer: >- + None can be saved through the covenant of works. + verses: {} + - number: 42 + question: Why can none be saved through the covenant of works? + answer: >- + Because all have broken it, and are condemned by it + verses: {} + - number: 43 + question: With whom did God the Father make the covenant of grace? + answer: >- + With Christ, his eternal Son. + verses: {} + - number: 44 + question: Whom did Christ represent in the covenant of grace? + answer: >- + His elect people. + verses: {} + - number: 45 + question: What did Christ undertake in the covenant of grace? + answer: >- + To keep the whole law for his people, and to suffer the punishment due + to their sins. + verses: {} + - number: 46 + question: Did our Lord Jesus Christ ever commit the least sin? + answer: >- + No; he was holy, harmless, and undefiled. + verses: {} + - number: 47 + question: How could the Son of God suffer? + answer: >- + Christ, the Son of God, became man that he might obey and suffer in + our nature. + verses: {} + - number: 48 + question: What is meant by the Atonement? + answer: >- + Christ's satisfying divine justice, by his sufferings and death, in + the place of sinners. + verses: {} + - number: 49 + question: What did God the Father undertake in the covenant of grace? + answer: >- + To justify and sanctify those for whom Christ should die. + verses: {} + - number: 50 + question: What is justification? + answer: >- + It is God's forgiving sinners, and treating them as if they had never + sinned. + verses: {} + - number: 51 + question: What is sanctification? + answer: >- + It is God's making sinners holy in heart and conduct. + verses: {} + - number: 52 + question: For whom did Christ obey and suffer? + answer: >- + For those whom the Father had given him. + verses: {} + - number: 53 + question: What kind of life did Christ live on earth? + answer: >- + A life of poverty and suffering. + verses: {} + - number: 54 + question: What kind of death did Christ die? + answer: >- + The painful and shameful death of the cross. + verses: {} + - number: 55 + question: Who will be saved? + answer: >- + Only those who repent of sin, believe in Christ, and lead holy lives. + verses: {} + - number: 56 + question: What is it to repent? + answer: >- + To be sorry for sin, and to hate and forsake it because it is + displeasing to God. + verses: {} + - number: 57 + question: What is it to believe or have faith in Christ? + answer: >- + To trust in Christ alone for salvation. + verses: {} + - number: 58 + question: Can you repent and believe in Christ by your own power? + answer: >- + No; I can do nothing good without the help of God's Holy Spirit. + verses: {} + - number: 59 + question: How can you get the help of the Holy Spirit? + answer: >- + God has told us that we must pray to him for the Holy Spirit. + verses: {} + - number: 60 + question: How long ago is it since Christ died? + answer: >- + More than nineteen hundred years. + verses: {} + - number: 61 + question: How were pious persons saved before the coming of Christ? + answer: >- + By believing in a Savior to come. + verses: {} + - number: 62 + question: How did they show their faith? + answer: >- + By offering sacrifices on God's altar. + verses: {} + - number: 63 + question: What did these sacrifices represent? + answer: >- + Christ, the Lamb of God, who was to die for sinners. + verses: {} + - number: 64 + question: What offices has Christ? + answer: >- + Christ has three offices. + verses: {} + - number: 65 + question: What are they? + answer: >- + The offices of a prophet, of a priest, and of a king. + verses: {} + - number: 66 + question: How is Christ a prophet? + answer: >- + Because he teaches us the will of God. + verses: {} + - number: 67 + question: How is Christ a priest? + answer: >- + Because he died for our sins and pleads with God for us. + verses: {} + - number: 68 + question: How is Christ a king? + answer: >- + Because he rules over us and defends us. + verses: {} + - number: 69 + question: Why do you need Christ as a prophet? + answer: >- + Because I am ignorant. + verses: {} + - number: 70 + question: Why do you need Christ as a priest? + answer: >- + Because I am guilty. + verses: {} + - number: 71 + question: Why do you need Christ as a king? + answer: >- + Because I am weak and helpless. + verses: {} + - number: 72 + question: How many commandments did God give on Mount Sinai? + answer: >- + Ten commandments. + verses: {} + - number: 73 + question: What are the ten commandments sometimes called? + answer: >- + The Decalogue. + verses: {} + - number: 74 + question: What do the first four commandments teach? + answer: >- + Our duty to God. + verses: {} + - number: 75 + question: What do the last six commandments teach? + answer: >- + Our duty to our fellow men. + verses: {} + - number: 76 + question: What is the sum of the ten commandments? + answer: >- + To love God with all my heart, and my neighbor as myself. + verses: {} + - number: 77 + question: Who is your neighbor? + answer: >- + All my fellow men are my neighbors. + verses: {} + - number: 78 + question: Is God pleased with those who love and obey him? + answer: >- + Yes; he says, "I love them that love me." + verses: {} + - number: 79 + question: Is God displeased with those who do not love and obey him? + answer: >- + Yes; "God is angry with the wicked every day." + verses: {} + - number: 80 + question: What is the first commandment? + answer: >- + The first commandment is, Thou shalt have no other gods before me. + verses: {} + - number: 81 + question: What does the first commandment teach us? + answer: >- + To worship God alone. + verses: {} + - number: 82 + question: What is the second commandment? + answer: >- + The second commandment is, Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven + image, or any likeness of any things that is in heaven above, or that + is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; thou + shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I, the Lord + thy God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon + the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate + me; and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my + commandments. + verses: {} + - number: 83 + question: What does the second commandment teach us? + answer: >- + To worship God in a proper manner, and to avoid idolatry. + verses: {} + - number: 84 + question: What is the third commandment? + answer: >- + The third commandment is, Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy + God in vain: for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his + name in vain. + verses: {} + - number: 85 + question: What does the third commandment teach me? + answer: >- + To reverence God's name, word, and works. + verses: {} + - number: 86 + question: What is the fourth commandment? + answer: >- + The fourth commandment is, Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy. + Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work, but the seventh day is + the Sabbath of the Lord thy God; in it thou shalt not do any work, + thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy manservant, nor thy + maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy + gates: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and + all that in them is, and rested the seventh day; wherefore the Lord + blessed the Sabbath Day, and hallowed it. + verses: {} + - number: 87 + question: What does the fourth commandment teach us? + answer: >- + To keep the Sabbath holy. + verses: {} + - number: 88 + question: What day of the week is the Christian Sabbath? + answer: >- + The first day of the week, called the Lord's day. + verses: {} + - number: 89 + question: Why is it called the Lord's day? + answer: >- + Because on that day Christ rose from the dead. + verses: {} + - number: 90 + question: How should the Sabbath be spent? + answer: >- + In prayer and praise, in hearing and reading God's Word, and in doing + good to our fellow men. + verses: {} + - number: 91 + question: What is the fifth commandment? + answer: >- + The fifth commandment is, Honor thy father and thy mother, that thy + days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee. + verses: {} + - number: 92 + question: What does the fifth commandment teach me? + answer: >- + To love and obey our parents and teachers. + verses: {} + - number: 93 + question: What is the sixth commandment? + answer: >- + The sixth commandment is, Thou shalt not kill. + verses: {} + - number: 94 + question: What does the sixth commandment teach us? + answer: >- + To avoid angry passions. + verses: {} + - number: 95 + question: What is the seventh commandment? + answer: >- + The seventh commandment is, Thou shalt not commit adultery. + verses: {} + - number: 96 + question: What does the seventh commandment teach us? + answer: >- + To be pure in heart, language, and conduct. + verses: {} + - number: 97 + question: What is the eighth commandment? + answer: >- + The eighth commandment is, Thou shalt not steal. + verses: {} + - number: 98 + question: What does the eighth commandment teach us? + answer: >- + To be honest and industrious. + verses: {} + - number: 99 + question: What is the ninth commandment? + answer: >- + The ninth commandment is, Thou shalt not bear false witness against + thy neighbor. + verses: {} + - number: 100 + question: What does the ninth commandment teach us? + answer: >- + To tell the truth. + verses: {} + - number: 101 + question: What is the tenth commandment? + answer: >- + The tenth commandment is, Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house, + thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his manservant, nor his + maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy + neighbor's. + verses: {} + - number: 102 + question: What does the tenth commandment teach us? + answer: >- + To be content with our lot. + verses: {} + - number: 103 + question: Can any man keep these ten commandments perfectly? + answer: >- + No mere man, since the fall of Adam, ever did or can keep the ten + commandments perfectly. + verses: {} + - number: 104 + question: Of what use are the ten commandments to us? + answer: >- + They teach us our duty, and show our need of a Savior. + verses: {} + - number: 105 + question: What is prayer? + answer: >- + Prayer is asking God for things which he has promised to give. + verses: {} + - number: 106 + question: In whose name should we pray? + answer: >- + Only in the name of Christ. + verses: {} + - number: 107 + question: What has Christ given us to teach us how to pray? + answer: >- + The Lord's Prayer. + verses: {} + - number: 108 + question: Repeat the Lord's Prayer. + answer: >- + Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom + come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day + our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. + And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine + is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. + verses: {} + - number: 109 + question: How many petitions are there in The Lord's Prayer? + answer: >- + Six. + verses: {} + - number: 110 + question: What is the first petition? + answer: >- + "Hallowed be thy name." + verses: {} + - number: 111 + question: What do we pray for in the first petition? + answer: >- + That God's name may be honored by us and all men. + verses: {} + - number: 112 + question: What is the second petition? + answer: >- + "Thy kingdom come." + verses: {} + - number: 113 + question: What do we pray for in the second petition? + answer: >- + That the gospel may be preached in all the world, and believed and + obeyed by us and all men. + verses: {} + - number: 114 + question: What is the third petition? + answer: >- + "Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven." + verses: {} + - number: 115 + question: What do we pray for in the third petition? + answer: >- + That men on earth may serve God as the angels do in heaven. + verses: {} + - number: 116 + question: What is the fourth petition? + answer: >- + "Give us this day our daily bread." + verses: {} + - number: 117 + question: What do we pray for in the fourth petition? + answer: >- + That God would give us all things needful for our bodies and souls. + verses: {} + - number: 118 + question: What is the fifth petition? + answer: >- + "And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors." + verses: {} + - number: 119 + question: What do we pray for in the fifth petition? + answer: >- + That God would pardon our sins for Christ's sake, and enable us to + forgive those who have injured us. + verses: {} + - number: 120 + question: What is the sixth petition? + answer: >- + "And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil." + verses: {} + - number: 121 + question: What do we pray for in the sixth petition? + answer: >- + That God would keep us from sin. + verses: {} + - number: 122 + question: How many sacraments are there? + answer: >- + Two. + verses: {} + - number: 123 + question: What are they? + answer: >- + Baptism and the Lord's Supper. + verses: {} + - number: 124 + question: Who appointed these sacraments? + answer: >- + The Lord Jesus Christ. + verses: {} + - number: 125 + question: Why did Christ appoint these sacraments? + answer: >- + To distinguish his disciples from the world, and to comfort and + strengthen them. + verses: {} + - number: 126 + question: What sign is used in baptism? + answer: >- + The washing with water. + verses: {} + - number: 127 + question: What does this signify? + answer: >- + That we are cleansed from sin by the blood of Christ. + verses: {} + - number: 128 + question: In whose name are we baptized? + answer: >- + In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. + verses: {} + - number: 129 + question: Who are to be baptized? + answer: >- + Believers and their children. + verses: {} + - number: 130 + question: Why should infants be baptized? + answer: >- + Because they have a sinful nature and need a Savior. + verses: {} + - number: 131 + question: Does Christ care for little children? + answer: >- + Yes; for he says, "Suffer the little children to come unto me, and + forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God." + verses: {} + - number: 132 + question: To what does your baptism bind you? + answer: >- + To be a true follower of Christ. + verses: {} + - number: 133 + question: What is the Lord's Supper? + answer: >- + The eating of bread and drinking of wine in remembrance of the + sufferings and death of Christ. + verses: {} + - number: 134 + question: What does the bread represent? + answer: >- + The body of Christ, broken for our sins. + verses: {} + - number: 135 + question: What does the wine represent? + answer: >- + The blood of Christ, shed for our salvation. + verses: {} + - number: 136 + question: Who should partake of the Lord's Supper? + answer: >- + Only those who repent of their sins, believe in Christ for salvation, + and love their fellow men. + verses: {} + - number: 137 + question: Did Christ remain in the tomb after his crucifixion? + answer: >- + No; he rose from the tomb on the third day after his death. + verses: {} + - number: 138 + question: Where is Christ now? + answer: >- + In heaven, interceding for sinners. + verses: {} + - number: 139 + question: Will he come again? + answer: >- + Yes; at the last day Christ will come to judge the world. + verses: {} + - number: 140 + question: What becomes of men at death? + answer: >- + The body returns to dust, and the soul goes into the world of spirits. + verses: {} + - number: 141 + question: Will the bodies of the dead be raised to life again? + answer: >- + Yes; "The trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised." + verses: {} + - number: 142 + question: What will become of the wicked in the day of judgment? + answer: >- + They shall be cast into hell. + verses: {} + - number: 143 + question: What is hell? + answer: >- + A place of dreadful and endless torment. + verses: {} + - number: 144 + question: What will become of the righteous? + answer: >- + They shall be taken to heaven. + verses: {} + - number: 145 + question: What is heaven? + answer: >- + A glorious and happy place, where the righteous shall be forever with + the Lord. + verses: {} +... diff --git a/data/psalter/bopfw-tunes.json b/data/psalter/bopfw-tunes.json new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..a560120cd0400b7c923f80325a166acec873418e --- /dev/null +++ b/data/psalter/bopfw-tunes.json @@ -0,0 +1,2287 @@ +[ + { + "sel": "1a", + "name": "Ellacombe", + "tune": "The Man Is Blessed" + }, + { + "sel": "1b", + "name": "Giesen", + "tune": "How Blessed the Man" + }, + { + "sel": "2a", + "name": "Salzburg (Hintze)", + "tune": "Why Do Gentile Nations Rage?" + }, + { + "sel": "2b", + "name": "Aberystwyth", + "tune": "Jesus, Lover of My Soul" + }, + { + "sel": "2c", + "name": "Hollingside", + "tune": "Take My Life and Let it Be" + }, + { + "sel": "2d", + "name": "Kent", + "tune": "Why Do the Gentile Rage?" + }, + { + "sel": "3a", + "name": "New Britain", + "tune": "Amazing Grace" + }, + { + "sel": "3b", + "name": "Toronto", + "tune": "LORD, How My Foes Are Multiplied" + }, + { + "sel": "4a", + "name": "Wallace", + "tune": "Give Answer When I Call" + }, + { + "sel": "4b", + "name": "Penitence", + "tune": "In the Hour of Trial" + }, + { + "sel": "5a", + "name": "Morning Light", + "tune": "Listen to My Words, O LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "5b", + "name": "Aberystwyth", + "tune": "Jesus, Lover of My Soul" + }, + { + "sel": "5c", + "name": "Scarborough Fair", + "tune": "Listen to My Words, O LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "6a", + "name": "Olive\u2019s Brow", + "tune": "Tis Midnight, and on Olive's Brow" + }, + { + "sel": "6b", + "name": "Morecambe", + "tune": "Spirit of God, Descend upon My Heart" + }, + { + "sel": "7a", + "name": "Slane", + "tune": "Be Thou My Vision" + }, + { + "sel": "7b", + "name": "National Hymn", + "tune": "God of Our Fathers, Whose Almighty Hand" + }, + { + "sel": "8a", + "name": "Dunfermline", + "tune": "O LORD, Our Lord" + }, + { + "sel": "8b", + "name": "Amsterdam", + "tune": "Rise, My Soul, and Stretch Thy Wings" + }, + { + "sel": "8c", + "name": "Stroudwater", + "tune": "O LORD, Our Lord" + }, + { + "sel": "9a", + "name": "Sankey", + "tune": "Hiding in Thee; Faith is the Victory" + }, + { + "sel": "9b", + "name": "Joanna (St. Denio)", + "tune": "Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise" + }, + { + "sel": "10a", + "name": "Unde et Memores", + "tune": "Why Do You Stand So Far Away?" + }, + { + "sel": "10b", + "name": "Sursum Corda", + "tune": "Lift Up Your Hearts!" + }, + { + "sel": "11a", + "name": "Olmutz", + "tune": "My Trust Is in the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "11b", + "name": "St. Bride", + "tune": "My Trust Is in the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "12", + "name": "Lindesfarne", + "tune": "Help, LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "13a", + "name": "Meditation", + "tune": "How Long Will You Forget Me, LORD?" + }, + { + "sel": "13b", + "name": "Cleveland", + "tune": "O How Long, LORD?" + }, + { + "sel": "14a", + "name": "Passion Chorale", + "tune": "O Sacred Head, Now Wounded" + }, + { + "sel": "14b", + "name": "Old 128th", + "tune": "Within His Heart the Fool Speaks" + }, + { + "sel": "15a", + "name": "Lowry", + "tune": "Savior, Thy Dying Love; Something for Jesus" + }, + { + "sel": "15b", + "name": "Dawn", + "tune": "Within Your Tent Who Will Reside?" + }, + { + "sel": "16a", + "name": "Medfield", + "tune": "Keep Me, O God" + }, + { + "sel": "16b", + "name": "Abridge", + "tune": "I'll Bless the LORD Who Counsels Me" + }, + { + "sel": "16c", + "name": "Foundation", + "tune": "How Firm a Foundation" + }, + { + "sel": "16d", + "name": "Sterling", + "tune": "Preserve Me, O God" + }, + { + "sel": "16e", + "name": "Conserva Me", + "tune": "Keep Me, O God" + }, + { + "sel": "17a", + "name": "Landas", + "tune": "My Faith Has Found a Resting Place" + }, + { + "sel": "17b", + "name": "St Andrew", + "tune": "Keep Me the Focus of Youth Eye" + }, + { + "sel": "17c", + "name": "Arfryn", + "tune": "Arise, Confront My Foe" + }, + { + "sel": "18a", + "name": "Uxbridge", + "tune": "I Love You, LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "18b", + "name": "Freuen Wir Uns", + "tune": "Holy Jesus! God of Love" + }, + { + "sel": "18c", + "name": "Canonbury", + "tune": "Lord, Speak to Me that I May Speak; I Gave My Life to Thee" + }, + { + "sel": "18d", + "name": "Pentecost", + "tune": "With Men of Kindness You Are Kind" + }, + { + "sel": "18e", + "name": "Church Triumphant", + "tune": "How Perfect Is the Way of God" + }, + { + "sel": "18f", + "name": "Freuen Wir Uns", + "tune": "Holy Jesus! God of Love" + }, + { + "sel": "18g", + "name": "Andre", + "tune": "Blessed Be My Rock" + }, + { + "sel": "18h", + "name": "Crasselius", + "tune": null + }, + { + "sel": "19a", + "name": "Clarksville", + "tune": "The Skies Above" + }, + { + "sel": "19b", + "name": "Millennium", + "tune": "The LORD'S Most Perfect Law" + }, + { + "sel": "20a", + "name": "Sagina", + "tune": "And Can It Be That I Should Gain?" + }, + { + "sel": "20b", + "name": "Leighton", + "tune": "The LORD Reply in Your Distress" + }, + { + "sel": "21a", + "name": "Noel", + "tune": "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear; A Thousand Years Have Come and Gone" + }, + { + "sel": "21b", + "name": "Ellacombe", + "tune": "Because the King Trusts in the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "22a", + "name": "Fillmore", + "tune": "My God, My God" + }, + { + "sel": "22b", + "name": "Veni Emmanuel", + "tune": "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" + }, + { + "sel": "22c", + "name": "Wavertree", + "tune": "Be Not Far Off" + }, + { + "sel": "22d", + "name": "Vision", + "tune": "I'll Praise You in the Gathering" + }, + { + "sel": "22e", + "name": "Creation", + "tune": "The Spacious Firmament on High" + }, + { + "sel": "23a", + "name": "St. Columbia", + "tune": "The King of Love My Shepherd Is" + }, + { + "sel": "23b", + "name": "Crimond", + "tune": "The Lord's My Shepherd, I'll Not Want" + }, + { + "sel": "23c", + "name": "Bunessan", + "tune": "Morning Has Broken" + }, + { + "sel": "23d", + "name": "Wassail Wassail", + "tune": "The LORD Is My Shepherd" + }, + { + "sel": "24a", + "name": "To God Be The Glory", + "tune": null + }, + { + "sel": "24b", + "name": "St. George\u2019s Edinburgh", + "tune": "Ye Gates, Lift Up Your Heads" + }, + { + "sel": "24c", + "name": "Greyfriars", + "tune": "The Earth and the Riches" + }, + { + "sel": "25a", + "name": "Leominster", + "tune": "To You I Lift My Soul" + }, + { + "sel": "25b", + "name": "Calvary (Welcome Voice)", + "tune": "The LORD Is Good and Just" + }, + { + "sel": "25c", + "name": "Trentham", + "tune": "Breathe on Me, Breath of God" + }, + { + "sel": "26a", + "name": "Kingsfold", + "tune": "LORD, Vindicate Me" + }, + { + "sel": "26b", + "name": "Peace", + "tune": "LORD, Vindicate Me" + }, + { + "sel": "27a", + "name": "Willard", + "tune": "The LORD Is My Light and My Salvation" + }, + { + "sel": "27b", + "name": "St. Michael", + "tune": "I Ask the LORD and Seek" + }, + { + "sel": "27c", + "name": "St. Peter", + "tune": "In Christ There is No East or West; How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds" + }, + { + "sel": "27d", + "name": "Louise", + "tune": "O LORD,Teach Me to Follow You" + }, + { + "sel": "28a", + "name": "Amadeus", + "tune": "LORD, I Call on You" + }, + { + "sel": "28b", + "name": "Dundee (French)", + "tune": "I Cry to You, O LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "28c", + "name": "Brown", + "tune": "The LORD Be Blessed" + }, + { + "sel": "29a", + "name": "Joanna (St. Denio)", + "tune": "Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise" + }, + { + "sel": "29b", + "name": "Normandy Carol", + "tune": "When Wise Men Came Seeking" + }, + { + "sel": "30a", + "name": "Angel\u2019s Story", + "tune": "O Jesus, I Have Promised; I Love to Hear the Story" + }, + { + "sel": "30b", + "name": "St. Theodulph", + "tune": "All Glory, Laud, and Honor" + }, + { + "sel": "31a", + "name": "Avondale (Gabriel)", + "tune": "In You, O LORD, I Put My Trust" + }, + { + "sel": "31b", + "name": "Lancashire", + "tune": "The Day of the Resurrection; Lead On, O King Eternal" + }, + { + "sel": "31c", + "name": "Llangloffan", + "tune": "O God of Earth and Altar" + }, + { + "sel": "31d", + "name": "Saints\u2019 Praise", + "tune": "How Great the Good" + }, + { + "sel": "32a", + "name": "Tabler", + "tune": "What Blessedness" + }, + { + "sel": "32b", + "name": "Main", + "tune": "Instruction I Will Give to You" + }, + { + "sel": "32c", + "name": "Vox Dilecti", + "tune": "I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say" + }, + { + "sel": "32d", + "name": "Campbell", + "tune": "Instruction I Will Give to You" + }, + { + "sel": "33a", + "name": "Dennis", + "tune": "Blessed Be the Tie that Binds" + }, + { + "sel": "33b", + "name": "Louisville", + "tune": "With Gladness in the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "33c", + "name": "Ash Grove", + "tune": "The LORD by His Word Has Created" + }, + { + "sel": "34a", + "name": "Champs Elysees", + "tune": "At All Times I Will Bless the Lord" + }, + { + "sel": "34b", + "name": "Winchester New", + "tune": "I Will At All Times Bless the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "34c", + "name": "Sweet Hour", + "tune": "Sweet Hour of Prayer" + }, + { + "sel": "35a", + "name": "Hamburg", + "tune": "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross" + }, + { + "sel": "35b", + "name": "Olive\u2019s Brow", + "tune": "Tis Midnight, and on Olive's Brow" + }, + { + "sel": "35c", + "name": "Wayfaring Stranger", + "tune": "Now Men Arise to Bear False Witness" + }, + { + "sel": "35d", + "name": "Wareham", + "tune": "Great God We Sing That Mighty Hand" + }, + { + "sel": "35e", + "name": "Leighton", + "tune": "With Justice Judge Me, LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "36a", + "name": "Manoah", + "tune": "Begin, My Tongue, Some Heavenly Theme" + }, + { + "sel": "36b", + "name": "Peace", + "tune": "Your Love, LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "36c", + "name": "Old 44th", + "tune": "About the Wicked" + }, + { + "sel": "37a", + "name": "Reward", + "tune": "Do Not Be Angry" + }, + { + "sel": "37b", + "name": "Omni Dei", + "tune": "Wicked Men Against the Righteous" + }, + { + "sel": "37c", + "name": "Beach Spring", + "tune": "Steps a Man Takes" + }, + { + "sel": "37d", + "name": "Compassion", + "tune": "Though the Wicked Hound the Righteous" + }, + { + "sel": "38a", + "name": "St. Sylvester", + "tune": "LORD, Do Not in Hot Displeasure Speak" + }, + { + "sel": "38b", + "name": "Katushka", + "tune": "My Desire and Ceaseless Wailing" + }, + { + "sel": "38c", + "name": "Mount Vernon", + "tune": "You, O LORD, I Have Been Trusting" + }, + { + "sel": "39a", + "name": "Langran", + "tune": "I Said, \"I Will Keep Watch\"" + }, + { + "sel": "39b", + "name": "Eventide", + "tune": "Abide With Me" + }, + { + "sel": "40a", + "name": "Fingal", + "tune": "I Waited for the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "40b", + "name": "Madrid", + "tune": "Come Christians Join to Sing" + }, + { + "sel": "41a", + "name": "Kingsfold", + "tune": "How Blessed the Man Who Guides the Poor" + }, + { + "sel": "41b", + "name": "Donnelly", + "tune": "All Those Who Hate Me" + }, + { + "sel": "41c", + "name": "Alpha", + "tune": "Book One Doxology" + }, + { + "sel": "42a", + "name": "St. Catherine", + "tune": "Faith of Our Fathers, Living Still" + }, + { + "sel": "42b", + "name": "Veni Emmanuel", + "tune": "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" + }, + { + "sel": "42c", + "name": "Appalachia", + "tune": "As Deer for Streams, I Pant for God" + }, + { + "sel": "42d", + "name": "Steadfast", + "tune": "O God, My Soul Is in Despair" + }, + { + "sel": "43a", + "name": "Azmon", + "tune": "O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing" + }, + { + "sel": "43b", + "name": "St. Chrysostom", + "tune": "O Vindicate Me" + }, + { + "sel": "44a", + "name": "Foundation", + "tune": "O God, We Have Heard of Your Works" + }, + { + "sel": "44b", + "name": "Maldwyn", + "tune": "The Earth and the Fullness..." + }, + { + "sel": "44c", + "name": "Dominus Regit Me", + "tune": "If We Have Forgotten" + }, + { + "sel": "45a", + "name": "Methyr Tydfil", + "tune": "My Heart is Stirred" + }, + { + "sel": "45b", + "name": "Fairfield", + "tune": "A Goodly Theme is Mine" + }, + { + "sel": "45c", + "name": "Diademata", + "tune": "Crown Him With Many Crowns" + }, + { + "sel": "46a", + "name": "Pinneo", + "tune": "God Is Our Refuge and Our Strength" + }, + { + "sel": "46b", + "name": "Scott", + "tune": "God Is Our Refuge and Our Strength" + }, + { + "sel": "46c", + "name": "Ein\u2019 Feste Burg", + "tune": "A Mighty Fortress is Our God" + }, + { + "sel": "47a", + "name": "Petersham", + "tune": "Thy Word is Like a Garden, Lord" + }, + { + "sel": "47b", + "name": "Truro", + "tune": "Lift Up Your Heads. Ye Mighty Gates" + }, + { + "sel": "48a", + "name": "St. Clement", + "tune": "The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, Is Ended" + }, + { + "sel": "48b", + "name": "Bethlehem", + "tune": "How Vast the Benefits Divine; All Nature's Works His Praise Declare" + }, + { + "sel": "48c", + "name": "Zerah", + "tune": "Within Your Temple" + }, + { + "sel": "49a", + "name": "Amsterdam", + "tune": "Hear This, All Earth's Nations" + }, + { + "sel": "49b", + "name": "Aus Der Tiefe (Heinlein)", + "tune": "Let No Fear Disturb Your Peace" + }, + { + "sel": "50a", + "name": "Silver Street", + "tune": "God, Most Supreme In Might" + }, + { + "sel": "50b", + "name": "St. Thomas", + "tune": "Come, We that Love the Lord; I Love Your Kingdom, Lord" + }, + { + "sel": "50c", + "name": "Dinbych", + "tune": "Commit All Thy Griefs" + }, + { + "sel": "51a", + "name": "Toplady", + "tune": "Rock of Ages" + }, + { + "sel": "51b", + "name": "Myra", + "tune": "O Hide Your Face" + }, + { + "sel": "51c", + "name": "Jesu Meine Zuversicht", + "tune": "Welcome God and Mary's Son" + }, + { + "sel": "51d", + "name": "Ajalon", + "tune": "Go to Dark Gethsemane" + }, + { + "sel": "52a", + "name": "Anatevka", + "tune": "Why Boast of Wrong?" + }, + { + "sel": "52b", + "name": "Bryn Calfaria", + "tune": "Hear, O Hear Us, Israel's Shepherd" + }, + { + "sel": "53a", + "name": "Southwell", + "tune": "Out of the Deep I Call" + }, + { + "sel": "53b", + "name": "Leaf", + "tune": "The Fool Has Spoken in His Heart" + }, + { + "sel": "54a", + "name": "Austria", + "tune": "Glorious Things of Thee are Spoken" + }, + { + "sel": "54b", + "name": "Ebenezer (Ton-y-Botel)", + "tune": "O Deep, Deep Love of Jesus; Once to Every Man and Nation" + }, + { + "sel": "55a", + "name": "St. Anne", + "tune": "O God, Our Help in Ages Past" + }, + { + "sel": "55b", + "name": "Halifax", + "tune": "Consume the Wicked" + }, + { + "sel": "55c", + "name": "Bovina", + "tune": "But as for Me, I'll Call on God" + }, + { + "sel": "56a", + "name": "Consolation", + "tune": "Awake, Awake to Love and Work" + }, + { + "sel": "56b", + "name": "Coronation", + "tune": "All Hail the Power" + }, + { + "sel": "57a", + "name": "Tabler", + "tune": "Be Merciful to Me, O God" + }, + { + "sel": "57b", + "name": "Sunderland", + "tune": "O Be Exalted High, O God" + }, + { + "sel": "58a", + "name": "Adirondack", + "tune": "Gods, Do You Really Speak with Righteousness?" + }, + { + "sel": "58b", + "name": "Leicester", + "tune": "O King of Kings" + }, + { + "sel": "59a", + "name": "National Hymn", + "tune": "Free Me, My God" + }, + { + "sel": "59b", + "name": "Finlandia", + "tune": "I Wait for You" + }, + { + "sel": "60a", + "name": "Yorke Tune", + "tune": "O God, You Have Rejected Us" + }, + { + "sel": "60b", + "name": "All Saint\u2019s New", + "tune": "The Son of God Goes Forth to War" + }, + { + "sel": "61a", + "name": "Lyons", + "tune": "O Worship the King; Ye Servants of God, Your Master Proclaim" + }, + { + "sel": "61b", + "name": "Josephine", + "tune": "Fret Not Thyself" + }, + { + "sel": "62a", + "name": "Bruce", + "tune": "My Soul Finds Rest in God Alone" + }, + { + "sel": "62b", + "name": "Resignation", + "tune": "My Shepherd Will Supply My Needs" + }, + { + "sel": "62c", + "name": "Main", + "tune": "They're Lighter than a Sigh" + }, + { + "sel": "63a", + "name": "Te Deum", + "tune": "O God, You are My God" + }, + { + "sel": "63b", + "name": "Wetherby", + "tune": "I'll Seek You Early, God" + }, + { + "sel": "63c", + "name": "Cooling", + "tune": "And When I Turn My Thoughts to You" + }, + { + "sel": "64a", + "name": "Culross", + "tune": "God, Hear My Voice" + }, + { + "sel": "64b", + "name": "Kilmarnock", + "tune": "God, Hear My Voice" + }, + { + "sel": "65a", + "name": "Webb", + "tune": "Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus" + }, + { + "sel": "65b", + "name": "Sheffield", + "tune": "The Praises of Thy Wonders" + }, + { + "sel": "65c", + "name": "Lauda Anima", + "tune": "Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven" + }, + { + "sel": "65d", + "name": "Solid Rock", + "tune": "On Christ the Solid Rock I Stand" + }, + { + "sel": "66a", + "name": "Miles Lane", + "tune": "All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name" + }, + { + "sel": "66b", + "name": "Forest Green", + "tune": "O Little Town of Bethlehem; Thy Word is Like a Garden, Lord" + }, + { + "sel": "66c", + "name": "Wie Schon Leuchtet", + "tune": "How Brightly Shines the Morning Star!; O Morning-star, How Fair! How Bright!" + }, + { + "sel": "67a", + "name": "Missionary Hymn", + "tune": "From Greenland's Icy Mountains" + }, + { + "sel": "67b", + "name": "Aurelia", + "tune": "The Church's One Foundation" + }, + { + "sel": "67c", + "name": "Thaxted", + "tune": "O God, Show Mercy to Us" + }, + { + "sel": "68a", + "name": "Exsurgat Deus", + "tune": "Let God Arise" + }, + { + "sel": "68b", + "name": "Laight Street", + "tune": "Let God Arise" + }, + { + "sel": "68c", + "name": "Park Street", + "tune": "But You, Jehovah, Shall Endure" + }, + { + "sel": "68d", + "name": "In Babilone", + "tune": "Hail, Thou Once Despised Jesus" + }, + { + "sel": "68e", + "name": "Old 124th", + "tune": "Now Israel May Say and That in Truth" + }, + { + "sel": "68f", + "name": "Croydon", + "tune": "Sing Out Your Praises" + }, + { + "sel": "69a", + "name": "Salvum Fac", + "tune": "Save Me, O God" + }, + { + "sel": "69b", + "name": "Pilgrims", + "tune": "Save Me from Sinking" + }, + { + "sel": "69c", + "name": "Old 110th", + "tune": "O Let Their Table Be a Snare" + }, + { + "sel": "69d", + "name": "Sabbath Evening", + "tune": "The Name of God" + }, + { + "sel": "70a", + "name": "Noel Nouvelet", + "tune": "Hasten, God, My Rescue" + }, + { + "sel": "70b", + "name": "Jacki\u2019s 1st Lament", + "tune": "Hasten, O God" + }, + { + "sel": "71a", + "name": "Contemplation", + "tune": "In You, O LORD, I Put My Trust" + }, + { + "sel": "71b", + "name": "St. Peter", + "tune": "Do Not Forsake Me in Old Age" + }, + { + "sel": "71c", + "name": "Politz", + "tune": "I'll Come to Tell the Mighty Deeds" + }, + { + "sel": "72a", + "name": "Truro", + "tune": "Lift Up Your Heads. Ye Mighty Gates" + }, + { + "sel": "72b", + "name": "Duke Street", + "tune": "Jesus Shall Reign Where'er the Sun" + }, + { + "sel": "72c", + "name": "Andre", + "tune": "May Waving Grain on Hilltops Thrive" + }, + { + "sel": "72d", + "name": "Yorkshire", + "tune": "Christians, Awake, Salute the Happy Morn" + }, + { + "sel": "72e", + "name": "Siyahamba", + "tune": "Marching in the Light of God" + }, + { + "sel": "72f", + "name": "Effingham", + "tune": "Book Two Doxology" + }, + { + "sel": "72g", + "name": "Beta", + "tune": "Book Two Doxology" + }, + { + "sel": "73a", + "name": "St. Catherine", + "tune": "Faith of Our Fathers Living Still" + }, + { + "sel": "73b", + "name": "Vater Unser", + "tune": "Our Father, Though in Heaven Above" + }, + { + "sel": "73c", + "name": "Trust", + "tune": "Yet Constantly I Am With You" + }, + { + "sel": "74a", + "name": "Holocaust", + "tune": "God, Why Forever Cast Us Off?" + }, + { + "sel": "74b", + "name": "Broomsgrove", + "tune": "Yet God My King Brings Forth" + }, + { + "sel": "75a", + "name": "Ancyra", + "tune": "To You, O God, We Render Thanks" + }, + { + "sel": "75b", + "name": "Pinneo", + "tune": "To You, O God, We Render Thanks" + }, + { + "sel": "76a", + "name": "Regent Square", + "tune": "Angels from the Realms of Glory" + }, + { + "sel": "76b", + "name": "Westminster Abbey", + "tune": "Christ is Made the Sure Foundation" + }, + { + "sel": "77a", + "name": "He Leadeth Me", + "tune": "He Leadeth Me" + }, + { + "sel": "77b", + "name": "Wareham", + "tune": "The LORD'S Deeds I Remember" + }, + { + "sel": "78a", + "name": "Illa", + "tune": "I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say" + }, + { + "sel": "78b", + "name": "Champs Elysees", + "tune": "O Come, My People" + }, + { + "sel": "78c", + "name": "Naomi", + "tune": "Ephraim's Sons" + }, + { + "sel": "78d", + "name": "Donnelly", + "tune": "Yet in the Desert Still They Sinned" + }, + { + "sel": "78e", + "name": "St. Kilda", + "tune": "In Heav'n He Made the East Wind Blow" + }, + { + "sel": "78f", + "name": "Winchester Old", + "tune": "They'd Turn and Seek God Eagerly" + }, + { + "sel": "78g", + "name": "Anatevka", + "tune": "These Rebels in the Wilderness" + }, + { + "sel": "78h", + "name": "Endless Song", + "tune": "Then He Struck Down" + }, + { + "sel": "78i", + "name": "Agawam", + "tune": "Yet They Rebelled" + }, + { + "sel": "78j", + "name": "St. Ambrose", + "tune": "As When Wine Makes the Soldier Bolder" + }, + { + "sel": "79a", + "name": "Holy Cross", + "tune": "O God, To Your Inheritance" + }, + { + "sel": "79b", + "name": "Fair Haven", + "tune": "O Charge Us Not With Former Sins" + }, + { + "sel": "80", + "name": "Bryn Calfaria", + "tune": "Hear, O Hear Us, Israel's Shepherd" + }, + { + "sel": "81a", + "name": "Brother James\u2019 Air", + "tune": "To God Our Strength" + }, + { + "sel": "81b", + "name": "Keokuk", + "tune": "Hear, O My People" + }, + { + "sel": "82a", + "name": "Latvia", + "tune": "God Is in His Congregation" + }, + { + "sel": "82b", + "name": "Stuttgart", + "tune": "God Is in His Congregation" + }, + { + "sel": "83", + "name": "Salvum Fac", + "tune": "Do Not Be Silent, God" + }, + { + "sel": "84a", + "name": "Stella", + "tune": "How Lovely, LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "84b", + "name": "Melita", + "tune": "Eternal Father Strong to Save" + }, + { + "sel": "84c", + "name": "Sussex Carol", + "tune": "On Christmas Night All Christians Sing" + }, + { + "sel": "84d", + "name": "Woodworth", + "tune": "Just as I Am, Without One Plea" + }, + { + "sel": "85a", + "name": "Bera", + "tune": "O LORD, Unto Your Land" + }, + { + "sel": "85b", + "name": "Bradbury", + "tune": "Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us" + }, + { + "sel": "86a", + "name": "Conwell", + "tune": "LORD, Listen and Answer" + }, + { + "sel": "86b", + "name": "Delphine", + "tune": "Your Way Teach Me, LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "87a", + "name": "St. Leonard", + "tune": "May the Mind of Christ My Savior" + }, + { + "sel": "87b", + "name": "Effingham", + "tune": "The LORD'S Foundation" + }, + { + "sel": "88a", + "name": "Adirondack", + "tune": "LORD, My Salvation" + }, + { + "sel": "88b", + "name": "Ellers", + "tune": "Savior, Again to Thy Dear Name We Raise" + }, + { + "sel": "89a", + "name": "New Jerusalem", + "tune": "The Lovingkindness of the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "89b", + "name": "Noel", + "tune": "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear; A Thousand Years Have Come and Gone" + }, + { + "sel": "89c", + "name": "St. Magnus", + "tune": "The Head that Was Once Crowned with Thorns" + }, + { + "sel": "89d", + "name": "Halifax", + "tune": "In Visions Once You Spoke" + }, + { + "sel": "89e", + "name": "Ayrshire", + "tune": "And If His Sons Forsake My Law" + }, + { + "sel": "89f", + "name": "Norwich", + "tune": "Now Your Anointed You Have Spurned" + }, + { + "sel": "89g", + "name": "Yorke Tune", + "tune": "How Long, LORD?" + }, + { + "sel": "89h", + "name": "Emmanuel", + "tune": "Book Three Doxology" + }, + { + "sel": "90a", + "name": "St. Chrysostom", + "tune": "Lord, You Have Been Our Dwelling Place" + }, + { + "sel": "90b", + "name": "St. Catherine", + "tune": "Faith of Our Fathers, Living Still" + }, + { + "sel": "91a", + "name": "Hyfrydol", + "tune": "Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus; Alleluia! Sing to Jesus!" + }, + { + "sel": "91b", + "name": "Woodworth", + "tune": "The One Who Has a Refuge Safe" + }, + { + "sel": "91c", + "name": "Retreat", + "tune": "From Every Stormy Wind that Blows" + }, + { + "sel": "91d", + "name": "Walton", + "tune": "The Lion Will Become Your Prey" + }, + { + "sel": "92", + "name": "Darwall", + "tune": "Rejoice! The Lord is King" + }, + { + "sel": "93a", + "name": "Rialto", + "tune": "The LORD Is Crowned as King" + }, + { + "sel": "93b", + "name": "Monks Gate", + "tune": "To Be a Pilgrim (He Who Would Valiant Be)" + }, + { + "sel": "94a", + "name": "Austria", + "tune": "Glorious Things of Thee are Spoken" + }, + { + "sel": "94b", + "name": "Ebenezer (Ton-y-Botel)", + "tune": "O Deep, Deep Love of Jesus; Once to Every Man and Nation" + }, + { + "sel": "95a", + "name": "Alexandria", + "tune": "Come to the LORD and Sing For Joy" + }, + { + "sel": "95b", + "name": "Orlington", + "tune": "O Come and Let Us Worship Hiom" + }, + { + "sel": "95c", + "name": "Norwich", + "tune": "Today If You Will Hear His Voice" + }, + { + "sel": "95d", + "name": "Come Joyfully", + "tune": "O Come to the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "96a", + "name": "Coronation", + "tune": "All Hail the Power" + }, + { + "sel": "96b", + "name": "Orlington", + "tune": "In Radient Robes" + }, + { + "sel": "96c", + "name": "Winchester New", + "tune": "O Sing a New Song to the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "96d", + "name": "Terra Beata", + "tune": "This is My Father's World" + }, + { + "sel": "97a", + "name": "Arfon", + "tune": "The LORD Reigns (Let Earth Rejoice)" + }, + { + "sel": "97b", + "name": "Sicilian Mariners", + "tune": "Lord, Dismiss Us with Thy Blessing" + }, + { + "sel": "97c", + "name": "Throne", + "tune": "The LORD is King!" + }, + { + "sel": "98a", + "name": "Desert (Lyngham)", + "tune": "O Sing a New Song to the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "98b", + "name": "Ode to Joy", + "tune": "To the LORD O Sing a New Song" + }, + { + "sel": "99a", + "name": "Arnsberg", + "tune": "God Is in His Temple" + }, + { + "sel": "99b", + "name": "Leoni", + "tune": "The God of Abraham Praise" + }, + { + "sel": "100a", + "name": "Old 100th", + "tune": "Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow" + }, + { + "sel": "100b", + "name": "Glasgow", + "tune": "O Shout for Joy unto the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "100c", + "name": "Lobe Den Herren", + "tune": "Praise to the Lord, the Almighty" + }, + { + "sel": "100d", + "name": "Enter", + "tune": "Make a Joyful Noise" + }, + { + "sel": "100e", + "name": "Festal Song", + "tune": "Give to the Winds Thy Fears" + }, + { + "sel": "101a", + "name": "Llangloffan", + "tune": "Of Loyalty and Justice" + }, + { + "sel": "101b", + "name": "Aurelia", + "tune": "Of Loyalty and Justice" + }, + { + "sel": "102a", + "name": "Baca", + "tune": "To This My Prayer" + }, + { + "sel": "102b", + "name": "Park Street", + "tune": "My Days Like Evening's Shade" + }, + { + "sel": "102c", + "name": "Teann A Nall", + "tune": "Let This Be Written" + }, + { + "sel": "102d", + "name": "Sandbanks", + "tune": "My Strength He Weakened" + }, + { + "sel": "103a", + "name": "Schumann", + "tune": "O Bless the LORD, My Soul" + }, + { + "sel": "103b", + "name": "Beecher", + "tune": "Bless the LORD, My Soul" + }, + { + "sel": "103c", + "name": "Evening Prayer", + "tune": "For Our Frame He Well Remembers" + }, + { + "sel": "103d", + "name": "Sicilian Mariners", + "tune": "Lord, Dismiss Us with Thy Blessing" + }, + { + "sel": "104a", + "name": "Lyons", + "tune": "O Worship the King; Ye Servants of God, Your Master Proclaim" + }, + { + "sel": "104b", + "name": "Emsworth", + "tune": "By Limits You Set" + }, + { + "sel": "104c", + "name": "Ash Grove", + "tune": "The Trees of the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "104d", + "name": "Bradford", + "tune": "How Many Works, LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "104e", + "name": "Hanover", + "tune": "Forevermore May the LORD'S Glory Stand" + }, + { + "sel": "105a", + "name": "Henry", + "tune": "O Thank the LORD (Call on His Name)" + }, + { + "sel": "105b", + "name": "Houghton", + "tune": "God's Covenant Stays" + }, + { + "sel": "105c", + "name": "St. Matthew", + "tune": "He Called for Famine" + }, + { + "sel": "105d", + "name": "Landas", + "tune": "My Soul has Found a Resting Place" + }, + { + "sel": "105e", + "name": "Clonmel", + "tune": "How Glad Was Egypt" + }, + { + "sel": "106a", + "name": "Brown", + "tune": "O Praise the LORD! O Thank the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "106b", + "name": "High Popples", + "tune": "With All Our Fathers" + }, + { + "sel": "106c", + "name": "St. Kilda", + "tune": "They Envied Moses" + }, + { + "sel": "106d", + "name": "Martyrs", + "tune": "Then They Despised" + }, + { + "sel": "106e", + "name": "Leveque", + "tune": "At Meribah" + }, + { + "sel": "106f", + "name": "Alpena", + "tune": "God Put His Tribes" + }, + { + "sel": "106g", + "name": "Delta", + "tune": "Book Four Doxology" + }, + { + "sel": "106h", + "name": "Homewood", + "tune": "Book Four Doxology" + }, + { + "sel": "107a", + "name": "St. Petersburg", + "tune": "How Great Our Lord" + }, + { + "sel": "107b", + "name": "Dies Irae", + "tune": "In Death's Dark Shadow" + }, + { + "sel": "107c", + "name": "Horsley", + "tune": "The Foolish Suffered for Their Sins" + }, + { + "sel": "107d", + "name": "Fountain", + "tune": "There Is a Fountain Filled with Blood" + }, + { + "sel": "107e", + "name": "Canaan", + "tune": "He Changes Streams to Wilderness" + }, + { + "sel": "107f", + "name": "Glorify", + "tune": "O Glorify Him" + }, + { + "sel": "107g", + "name": "Shadow", + "tune": "Some Lived in Darkness" + }, + { + "sel": "107h", + "name": "Conwell", + "tune": "Fools Were Afflicted" + }, + { + "sel": "107i", + "name": "Ships", + "tune": "All Those Who Go Down to the Sea" + }, + { + "sel": "107j", + "name": "Kirkpatrick", + "tune": "Some Rivers He Changes" + }, + { + "sel": "108a", + "name": "Nicaea", + "tune": "Holy, Holy, Holy" + }, + { + "sel": "108b", + "name": "Leminster", + "tune": "God Has Spoken in Holiness" + }, + { + "sel": "108c", + "name": "Silchester", + "tune": "With Steadfast Heart, O God" + }, + { + "sel": "108d", + "name": "Diademata", + "tune": "God Spoke in Holiness" + }, + { + "sel": "109a", + "name": "Jacki\u2019s 2nd Lament", + "tune": "God of My Praise" + }, + { + "sel": "109b", + "name": "Batty", + "tune": "Never Thinking to Show Kindness" + }, + { + "sel": "109c", + "name": "Katushka", + "tune": "Never Thinking to Show Kindness" + }, + { + "sel": "109d", + "name": "Ebenezer (Ton-y-Botel)", + "tune": "O Deep, Deep Love of Jesus; Once to Every Man and Nation" + }, + { + "sel": "110a", + "name": "Jerusalem", + "tune": "Jerusalem" + }, + { + "sel": "110b", + "name": "All Saints New", + "tune": "The Son of God Goes Forth to War" + }, + { + "sel": "110c", + "name": "St. John", + "tune": "The LORD Said to My Lord" + }, + { + "sel": "110d", + "name": "Terra Beata", + "tune": "This is My Father's World" + }, + { + "sel": "111a", + "name": "Boynton", + "tune": "Am I a Soldier of the Cross" + }, + { + "sel": "111b", + "name": "Stracathro", + "tune": "The Mighty Power of His Works" + }, + { + "sel": "111c", + "name": "Arlington", + "tune": "O Praise the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "111d", + "name": "Dunfermline", + "tune": "The Mighty Power of His Works" + }, + { + "sel": "112a", + "name": "Hetherton", + "tune": "Majestic Sweetness Sits Enthroned" + }, + { + "sel": "112b", + "name": "Sine Nomine", + "tune": "O Praise the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "113a", + "name": "Hendon", + "tune": "Take My Life and Let it Be" + }, + { + "sel": "113b", + "name": "Jubilate", + "tune": "O Praise the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "113c", + "name": "Beth", + "tune": "Praise the LORD'S Name" + }, + { + "sel": "114a", + "name": "Erie", + "tune": "When Isr'el Went Forth" + }, + { + "sel": "114b", + "name": "In Exitu Isreal", + "tune": "When from Egypt Isr'el Parted" + }, + { + "sel": "115a", + "name": "St. Anne", + "tune": "O God, Our Help in Ages Past" + }, + { + "sel": "115b", + "name": "Scott", + "tune": "O Israel, Trust in the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "116a", + "name": "St. Matthew", + "tune": "How Fervently I Love the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "116b", + "name": "Ostend", + "tune": "I Still Believed" + }, + { + "sel": "116c", + "name": "Tidings", + "tune": "I Love the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "116d", + "name": "Pilgrims", + "tune": "My Crying Eyes" + }, + { + "sel": "117a", + "name": "Christmas", + "tune": "While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night" + }, + { + "sel": "117b", + "name": "Mission", + "tune": "Praise the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "117c", + "name": "Alabad", + "tune": "Praise the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "118a", + "name": "White Lake", + "tune": "O Thank the LORD, for He Is Good" + }, + { + "sel": "118b", + "name": "Dominus Regit Me", + "tune": "Because He's Good" + }, + { + "sel": "118c", + "name": "Sharon", + "tune": "All Earth's Nations Joined Together" + }, + { + "sel": "118d", + "name": "Hetherton", + "tune": "Majestic Sweetness Sits Enthroned" + }, + { + "sel": "118e", + "name": "Jackson", + "tune": "Eternal Wisdom, Thee We Praise" + }, + { + "sel": "119a", + "name": "Christine", + "tune": "How Good It Is to Thank the Lord" + }, + { + "sel": "119b", + "name": "Hesperus", + "tune": "How Can a Young Man Cleanse His Way?" + }, + { + "sel": "119c", + "name": "Maryton", + "tune": "O Master, Let Me Walk With Thee" + }, + { + "sel": "119d", + "name": "Olive\u2019s Brow", + "tune": "Tis Midnight, and on Olive's Brow" + }, + { + "sel": "119e", + "name": "Bedford", + "tune": "That I May Keep Your Statutes" + }, + { + "sel": "119f", + "name": "City of Our God", + "tune": "O Let Your Lovingkindness Now Come" + }, + { + "sel": "119g", + "name": "Charlestown", + "tune": "All Who Love and Serve Your City" + }, + { + "sel": "119h", + "name": "Teann A Nall", + "tune": "My Portion is the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "119i", + "name": "Maitland", + "tune": "Must Jesus Bear the Cross Alone" + }, + { + "sel": "119j", + "name": "Eventide", + "tune": "Abide With Me" + }, + { + "sel": "119k", + "name": "Russian Hymn", + "tune": "God, the Omnipotent" + }, + { + "sel": "119l", + "name": "Ellesdie", + "tune": "Evermore, O LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "119m", + "name": "Perfect Way", + "tune": "O How I Love Your Law!" + }, + { + "sel": "119n", + "name": "Tallis\u2019 Canon", + "tune": "Your Word's a Lamp" + }, + { + "sel": "119o", + "name": "Lloyd", + "tune": "People of Double Mind I Hate" + }, + { + "sel": "119p", + "name": "Alexandria", + "tune": "People of Double Mind I Hate" + }, + { + "sel": "119q", + "name": "Nettleton", + "tune": "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing; Hush My Dear, Lie Still and Slumber" + }, + { + "sel": "119r", + "name": "Retreat", + "tune": "From Every Stormy Wind That Blows" + }, + { + "sel": "119s", + "name": "Coventry Carol", + "tune": "Lully, Lully, Thou Little Tiny Child" + }, + { + "sel": "119t", + "name": "Davis", + "tune": "O Thou in Whom Presence My Soul Takes Delight" + }, + { + "sel": "119u", + "name": "Hamburg", + "tune": "When I Survey The Wondrous Cross" + }, + { + "sel": "119v", + "name": "Hursley", + "tune": "Sun of My Soul, Thou Savior Dear" + }, + { + "sel": "119w", + "name": "Russia", + "tune": "LORD, Let My Cry Before You Come" + }, + { + "sel": "120a", + "name": "Ayrshire", + "tune": "I Cried in Trouble to the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "120b", + "name": "Martyrdom", + "tune": "I Cried in Trouble to the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "121a", + "name": "Heath", + "tune": "I Lift My Eyes and See the Hills" + }, + { + "sel": "121b", + "name": "Abbeyville", + "tune": "I Lift My Eyes and See the Hills" + }, + { + "sel": "121c", + "name": "Sandon", + "tune": "Unto the Hills I Lift My Longing Eyes" + }, + { + "sel": "121d", + "name": "Hope", + "tune": "I Lift My Eyes and See the Hills" + }, + { + "sel": "122a", + "name": "CWM Rhondda", + "tune": "Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah" + }, + { + "sel": "122b", + "name": "Dzove", + "tune": "Now to the LORD'S House Let Us Go!" + }, + { + "sel": "123a", + "name": "St. Michael", + "tune": "I Lift My Eyes to You" + }, + { + "sel": "123b", + "name": "Leaf", + "tune": "I'm Lifting Up My Eyes to You" + }, + { + "sel": "124", + "name": "Old 124th", + "tune": "Now Israel May Say and That in Truth" + }, + { + "sel": "125", + "name": "Slane", + "tune": "Be Thou My Vision" + }, + { + "sel": "126a", + "name": "Geneva", + "tune": "The LORD Brought Zion's Exiles Back" + }, + { + "sel": "126b", + "name": "Italian Hymn", + "tune": "Come, Thou Almighty King" + }, + { + "sel": "127a", + "name": "Syracuse", + "tune": "Unless the LORD Build Up the House" + }, + { + "sel": "127b", + "name": "Chambersburg", + "tune": "Unless the Lord Is He Who Builds the House" + }, + { + "sel": "128a", + "name": "McKee", + "tune": "All the Way My Savior Leads Me" + }, + { + "sel": "128b", + "name": "Holy Manna", + "tune": "Blessed Are All Who Fear the LORD'S Name" + }, + { + "sel": "129", + "name": "Old 110th", + "tune": "Time and Again They Greatly Did Oppress Me" + }, + { + "sel": "130a", + "name": "Evadna", + "tune": "LORD, From the Depths to You I Cried" + }, + { + "sel": "130b", + "name": "Morte Christe", + "tune": "LORD, From the Depths I Cried to You" + }, + { + "sel": "131a", + "name": "Humility", + "tune": "My Heart Is Not Exalted, LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "131b", + "name": "Repton", + "tune": "Dear Lord and Father of Mankind" + }, + { + "sel": "132a", + "name": "St. Andrew of Crete", + "tune": "Christian, Doth Thou See Them?" + }, + { + "sel": "132b", + "name": "Glenfinlas", + "tune": "For Your Servant David" + }, + { + "sel": "132c", + "name": "Wyclif", + "tune": "For the LORD Has Chosen Zion" + }, + { + "sel": "133a", + "name": "Azmon", + "tune": "O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing" + }, + { + "sel": "133b", + "name": "Dunlap\u2019s Creek", + "tune": "Behold How Very Good It Is" + }, + { + "sel": "134a", + "name": "From Strength to Strength", + "tune": "Come, Bless the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "134b", + "name": "Stuttgart", + "tune": "Bless the LORD, All His Servants" + }, + { + "sel": "135a", + "name": "Austria", + "tune": "Glorious Things of Thee are Spoken" + }, + { + "sel": "135b", + "name": "Triumph", + "tune": "Your Name, LORD, Endures Forever" + }, + { + "sel": "135c", + "name": "Dorrnance", + "tune": "Your Name, LORD, Endures Forever" + }, + { + "sel": "136a", + "name": "Easter Hymn", + "tune": "Christ the Lord Is Risen Today" + }, + { + "sel": "136b", + "name": "Constance", + "tune": "I've Found a Friend, O Such a Friend" + }, + { + "sel": "136c", + "name": "Shining Shore", + "tune": "My Days are Gliding Swiftly By" + }, + { + "sel": "136d", + "name": "Llanfair", + "tune": "Thank the LORD for Good is He" + }, + { + "sel": "137a", + "name": "Neumark", + "tune": "In Babylon We Thought of Zion" + }, + { + "sel": "137b", + "name": "Rakefet", + "tune": "By Babylon's Rivers" + }, + { + "sel": "138a", + "name": "Walton", + "tune": "With All My Heart My Thanks I'll Bring" + }, + { + "sel": "138b", + "name": "Wesley", + "tune": "With All My Heart My Thanks I'll Bring" + }, + { + "sel": "139a", + "name": "Holley", + "tune": "You Searched Me, LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "139b", + "name": "Maryton", + "tune": "O Master, Let Me Walk With Thee" + }, + { + "sel": "139c", + "name": "Woodworth", + "tune": "Just as I Am, Without One Plea" + }, + { + "sel": "139d", + "name": "Wareham", + "tune": "Great God We Sing That Mighty Hand" + }, + { + "sel": "140a", + "name": "Diamond", + "tune": "Save Me, O LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "140b", + "name": "Yorkshire", + "tune": "Christians, Awake, Salute the Happy Morn" + }, + { + "sel": "141a", + "name": "When Jesus Wept", + "tune": "When Jesus Wept" + }, + { + "sel": "141b", + "name": "Leveque", + "tune": "When Just Men Strike Me in Reproof" + }, + { + "sel": "142", + "name": "Contemplation", + "tune": "To You, O LORD, I Lift My Voice" + }, + { + "sel": "143a", + "name": "Invitation", + "tune": "LORD, Listen to My Prayer" + }, + { + "sel": "143b", + "name": "I Need Thee", + "tune": "I Need Thee Every Hour" + }, + { + "sel": "143c", + "name": "St. Elizabeth", + "tune": "Fairest Lord Jesus; Beautiful Savior" + }, + { + "sel": "143d", + "name": "St. Elizabeth", + "tune": "Fairest Lord Jesus; Beautiful Savior" + }, + { + "sel": "144a", + "name": "Lischer", + "tune": "Blessed Be the LORD, My Rock" + }, + { + "sel": "144b", + "name": "Lenox", + "tune": "O God, In Praise to You" + }, + { + "sel": "145a", + "name": "Duke Street", + "tune": "Jesus Shall Reign Where'er the Sun" + }, + { + "sel": "145b", + "name": "Ernan", + "tune": "Full of Compassion Is the LORD" + }, + { + "sel": "145c", + "name": "Rockingham", + "tune": "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross" + }, + { + "sel": "145d", + "name": "Beethoven\u2019s 7th", + "tune": "I Will Extol You" + }, + { + "sel": "146a", + "name": "Converse", + "tune": "What a Friend We have in Jesus" + }, + { + "sel": "146b", + "name": "Ripley", + "tune": "Hallelujah, Praise Jehovah" + }, + { + "sel": "147a", + "name": "Onward", + "tune": "Sing Halleluja!" + }, + { + "sel": "147b", + "name": "Petersham", + "tune": "O Praise the LORD, Jerusalem" + }, + { + "sel": "148a", + "name": "St. Catherines", + "tune": "From Heav'n O Praise the LORD!" + }, + { + "sel": "148b", + "name": "Praise Jehovah", + "tune": "Hallelujah! Praise the LORD'S Name!" + }, + { + "sel": "149a", + "name": "Dance of the Dawn", + "tune": "Praise the LORD! Hallelujah!" + }, + { + "sel": "149b", + "name": "Bethlehem", + "tune": "How Vast the Benefits Divine; All Nature's Works His Praise Declare" + }, + { + "sel": "150a", + "name": "Omega", + "tune": "Praise the LORD!" + }, + { + "sel": "150b", + "name": "Sunderland", + "tune": "Book Five Doxology" + } +] \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/data/psalter/psalms.yaml b/data/psalter/psalms.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..f8040066ca2876ab54b1643051893c3f8d78672a --- /dev/null +++ b/data/psalter/psalms.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,15771 @@ +--- +name: 1650 Scottish Psalter +type: psalter +publication_year: 1650 +psalms: + - number: 1 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Peter + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + That man hath perfect blessedness + who walketh not astray + In counsel of ungodly men, + nor stands in sinners' way, + + Nor sitteth in the scorner's chair: + But placeth his delight + Upon GOD's law, and meditates + on his law day and night. + + He shall be like a tree that grows + near planted by a river, + Which in his season yields his fruit, + and his leaf fadeth never: + + And all he doth shall prosper well. + The wicked are not so; + But like they are unto the chaff, + which wind drives to and fro. + + In judgment therefore shall not stand + such as ungodly are; + Nor in th' assembly of the just + shall wicked men appear. + + For why? the way of godly men + unto the LORD is known: + Whereas the way of wicked men + shall quite be overthrown. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Perhaps this psalm was added by Ezra, or whoever else was the + collector of the others into one book. We have represented to us in + it, (1.) The character of the godly; how holy they are, abstaining + from every temptation to, or appearance of evil; and with pleasure + meditating on, and endeavouring to fulfil the whole law of God, ver. + 1-2; and how happy, planted in the nearest fellowship with Jesus, the + River of Life, they prosper in their lawful attempts: They never fall + from their grace or profession; and they shall stand with approbation + at the judgment-seat of God, ver. 3. (2.) The sinfulness and misery of + the wicked: How different from, and contrary to the godly in their + inclinations, companions, exercises, and ends! How light and + unsubstantial, as chaff, and ready to be hurled by the storms of + infinite wrath, into the depths of hell, as cast and condemned in the + righteous judgment of God! ver. 4-5. (3.) The great reason of the + happiness of saints, and of the misery of sinners: The Lord loveth the + righteous, and observes and approves of their inclinations and + behaviour; but, as an enemy, he brings destructive vengeance upon the + wicked, ver. 6.<br/>While I sing these important lines, let my soul + lift up her eyes to that great pattern of perfection, Jesus, the man + of God's right hand, who was holy, harmless, undefiled, and separate + from sinners; and who fulfilled all righteousness, magnified the law, + and made it honourable for men for me. United to his person, clothed + with his righteousness, and all inflamed and animated with his + redeeming love shed abroad in my heart, let me examine myself as in + his sight; let me walk in him as my way, and follow him as my pattern + and guide: Let me with solemn awe look to, and prepare for his last, + his eternal judgment! + + - number: 2 + suggested_tunes: + - York + - Westminster + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Why rage the heathen? and vain things + why do the people mind? + Kings of the earth do set themselves, + and princes are combined, + + To plot against the LORD, and his + Anointed, saying thus, + Let us asunder break their bands, + and cast their cords from us. + + He that in heaven sits shall laugh; + the Lord shall scorn them all. + Then shall he speak to them in wrath, + in rage he vex them shall. + + Yet, notwithstanding, I have him + to be my King appointed; + And over Zion, my holy hill, + I have him King anointed. + + The sure decree I will declare; + the LORD hath said to me, + Thou art mine only Son; this day + I have begotten thee. + + Ask of me, and for heritage + the heathen I'll make thine; + And, for possession, I to thee + will give earth's utmost line. + + Thou shalt, as with a weighty rod + of iron, break them all; + And, as a potter's sherd, thou shalt + them dash in pieces small. + + Now, therefore, kings, be wise; be taught, + ye judges of the earth: + Serve GOD in fear, and see that ye + join trembling with your mirth. + + Kiss ye the Son, lest in his ire + ye perish from the way, + If once his wrath begin to burn: + bless'd all that on him stay. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Perhaps this psalm relates partly to David’s instalment on his throne, + and the victories over his enemies which attended it. Compare Psalm + 18; 2 Samuel 3, 5, 8, 10, 18, 20. But the whole of it respects Jesus + our Redeemer. Behold, (1.) The violent and harmonious, but + unsuccessful opposition, which Jews and Gentiles of all ranks make to + the person and redemption work of the great God my Saviour. Behold + what ruin and woe they draw upon themselves by their attempts! ver. + 1-5, 9. (2.) Behold how, notwithstanding all their raging malice and + furious opposition, Jehovah instals our Redeemer King in his church, + and infallibly fixeth him on his throne; avows him his only begotten + Son, and gives unto him the Gentiles for his people! ver. 6-8. (3.) + Behold Jehovah’s demand of serious consideration and fear of, joy in, + and trust, obedience and love to his exalted Son, ver. 9-12. + <br/><br/><br/> While I sing, let me remark the horrid nature of + sin; let me with broken heart, bewail my neglect of, and opposition to + Jesus Christ. Let me with wonder bless his name, that I have not + already perished in mine iniquity. Let me with earnestness accept that + once debased Redeemer, as my Saviour, my sovereign, my proprietor, my + God, my all. Let me learn to know him, rejoice in him, and with holy + awe, commit my whole salvation, and the salvation of my country, nay, + of all the ends of the earth to him. + + - number: 3 + suggested_tunes: + - Martyrdom + - St. Anne + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O LORD, how are my foes increased? + against me many rise. + Many say of my soul, For him + in God no succour lies. + + Yet thou my strength and glory art, + th' uplifter of mine head. + I cried, and, from his holy hill, + the LORD me answer made. + + I laid me down and slept, I waked; + for GOD sustainèd me. + I will not fear though thousands ten + set round against me be. + + Arise, O LORD; save me, my God; + for thou my foes hast stroke + All on the cheek-bone, and the teeth + of wicked men hast broke. + + Salvätion doth appertain + unto the LORD alone: + Thy blessing, Lord, for evermore + thy people is upon. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Having beheld the royal dignity of my Redeemer, let me here behold the + joy, the peace, the safety of the redeemed, amidst their distresses + innumerable. Here David, driven from his holy capital and high throne, + by his rebellious son Absalom, ( 1.) Complains to his God of the + number and malice of his enemies, ver. 1-2. (2.) He encourageth + himself in his God, as the source and subject-matter of his safety, + joy, and honour, ver. 3. (3.) He recollects, how, on former occasions, + his troubles had driven him to his prayers; how he had always found + God ready to hear and grant his requests; how safe and easy he had + lived under his protection; and how effectually he had broken the + power and restrained the malice of his enemies, ver 4-5, 7. ( 4.) + Triumphantly trusting in God, as the salvation and blesser of his + people, he silenceth all his fears, and pours forth his prayers for + new protection and deliverance, ver. 6, 8. <br/><br/><br/> Think, my + soul, of Jesus, who, when bulls of Bashan compassed him about, trusted + in God, that he would deliver him. In all my distress, let me pour out + my heart before him, believing in him as God, even my God. Let me + always rejoice in the great God my Saviour. Let me trust in him at all + times, that as he hath delivered, and doth deliver, so he will deliver + me. + + - number: 4 + suggested_tunes: + - Crimond + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Give ear unto me when I call, + God of my righteousness: + Have mercy, hear my prayer; thou hast + enlarged me in distress. + + O ye the sons of men! how long + will ye love vanities? + How long my glory turn to shame, + and will ye follow lies? + + But know, that for himself the LORD + the godly man doth choose: + The LORD, when I on him do call, + to hear will not refuse. + + Fear, and sin not; talk with your heart + on bed, and silent be. + Off'rings present of righteousness, + and in the LORD trust ye. + + O who will show us any good? + is that which many say: + But of thy countenance the light, + LORD, lift on us alway. + + Upon my heart, bestowed by thee, + more gladness I have found + Than they, ev'n then, when corn and wine + did most with them abound. + + I will both lay me down in peace, + and quiet sleep will take; + Because thou only me to dwell + in safety, LORD, dost make. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was, perhaps, composed on the same occasion as the former, + when David fled from Absalom his son. Here, (1.) David encouraged by + former experience, casts his burden on the Lord, and supplicates a + merciful deliverance, ver. 1. (2.) Addressing himself to men, + particularly to his persecutors, he reproves their contempt of God and + religion, their delight in, and practice of vanity, fraud, and + falsehood. He represents the happiness of the saints in having God + their protector, and ready to hear their requests. He recommends a + holy filial awe of God, and careful abstinence from sin; together with + a devoting of themselves, and their conduct and substance, to the + Lord, ver. 2-5. (3.) To encourage them to the study of practical + religion, he remarks, what superlative satisfaction and rest himself + had found in familiar fellowship with God, and in a believing + dependence on him, ver. 6-8. <br/><br/> <br/>While I sing, let me have + faith in God, as my own God in Christ. Let me abhor that levity of + mind, that deceitfulness, that earthly mindedness proper to the + ungodly, and every remain thereof. Let my soul pant for Jehovah, and + prefer him to everything else. Let me, by faith, lay meyself down in + his arms, his bosom, as all my salvation and comfort. + + - number: 5 + suggested_tunes: + - Stracathro + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Give ear unto my words, O LORD, + my meditation weigh. + Hear my loud cry, my King, my God; + for I to thee will pray. + + LORD, thou shalt early hear my voice: + I early will direct + My prayer to thee; and, looking up, + an answer will expect. + + For thou art not a God that doth + in wickedness delight; + Neither shall evil dwell with thee, + nor fools stand in thy sight. + + All that ill-doers are thou hat'st; + cutt'st off that liars be: + The bloody and deceitful man + abhorrèd is by thee. + + But I into thy house will come + in thine abundant grace; + And I will worship in thy fear + toward thy holy place. + + Because of those mine enemies, + LORD, in thy righteousness + Do thou me lead; do thou thy way + make straight before my face. + + For in their mouth there is no truth, + their inward part is ill; + Their throat's an open sepulchre, + their tongue doth flatter still. + + O God, destroy them; let them be + by their own counsel quelled: + Them for their many sins cast out, + for they 'gainst thee rebelled. + + But let all joy that trust in thee, + and still make shouting noise; + For them thou sav'st: let all that love + thy name in thee rejoice. + + For, LORD, unto the righteous man + thou wilt thy blessing yield: + With favour thou wilt compass him + about, as with a shield. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Here, (1.) The man according to God's heart, in the assured faith of + God's hearing his prayers, and hating his sins, fixeth a daily, an + early, an earnest, a steady, a grace-founded correspon dence with God, + in his ordinances of meditation, prayer, praise, etc., ver. 1-7. (2.) + Behold him humbly requesting God's special direction in duties which + his enemies had rendered difficult to perform; supplicating and + predicting the ruin of his implacable foes; and, in the assured faith + of obtaining it, imploring comfort and prosperity to his fellow + saints, ver. 8-12.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let my heart and flesh + cry out, and my soul pant and wait for the Lord. In the firm faith of + infinite mercy to forgive all my crimes, and wash out all my sinful + stains, let me blush at, and detest my own abominations. Let me + cultivate the closest familiarity with the Lord my God. Let my prayers + correspond with his promises, and with the particular condi tion of + myself or others. + + - number: 6 + suggested_tunes: + - Saxony + - Walsall + - Dundee + metre: L.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + LORD, in thy wrath rebuke me not; + Nor in thy hot rage chasten me. + LORD, pity me, for I am weak: + Heal me, for my bones vexèd be. + + My soul is also vexèd sore; + But, LORD, how long stay wilt thou make? + Return, O LORD, my soul set free; + O save me, for thy mercies' sake. + + Because those that deceasèd are + Of thee shall no remembrance have; + And who is he that will to thee + Give praises lying in the grave? + + I with my groaning weary am, + I also all the night my bed + Have causèd for to swim; and I + With tears my couch have waterèd. + + Mine eye, consumed with grief, grows old, + Because of all mine enemies. + Hence from me, wicked workers all; + For GOD hath heard my weeping cries. + + GOD hath my supplication heard, + My prayer receivèd graciously. + Shamed and sore vexed be all my foes, + Shamed and back turnèd suddenly. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Here, (1.) The man according to God's heart, in the assured faith of + God's hearing his prayers, and hating his sins, fixeth a daily, an + early, an earnest, a steady, a grace-founded correspon dence with God, + in his ordinances of meditation, prayer, praise, etc., ver. 1-7. (2.) + Behold him humbly requesting God's special direction in duties which + his enemies had rendered difficult to perform; supplicating and + predicting the ruin of his implacable foes; and, in the assured faith + of obtaining it, imploring comfort and prosperity to his fellow + saints, ver. 8-12.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let my heart and flesh + cry out, and my soul pant and wait for the Lord. In the firm faith of + infinite mercy to forgive all my crimes, and wash out all my sinful + stains, let me blush at, and detest my own abominations. Let me + cultivate the closest familiarity with the Lord my God. Let my prayers + correspond with his promises, and with the particular condi tion of + myself or others. + + - number: 6 + suggested_tunes: + - Saxony + - Walsall + - Dundee + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: true + text: | + In thy great indignätion, + O LORD, rebuke me not; + Nor on me lay thy chastening hand + in thy displeasure hot. + + LORD, I am weak, therefore on me + have mercy, and me spare: + Heal me, O LORD, because thou know'st + my bones much vexèd are. + + My soul is vexèd sore: but, LORD, + how long stay wilt thou make? + Return, LORD, free my soul; and save + me for thy mercies' sake. + + Because of thee in death there shall + no more remembrance be: + Of those that in the grave do lie, + who shall give thanks to thee? + + I with my groaning weary am, + and all the night my bed + I causèd for to swim; with tears + my couch I waterèd. + + By reason of my vexing grief + mine eye consumèd is; + It waxeth old, because of all + that be mine enemies. + + But now, depart from me, all ye + that work iniquity: + For why? the LORD hath heard my voice, + when I did mourn and cry. + + Unto my supplicätion + the LORD did hearing give: + When I to him my prayèr make, + the LORD will it receive. + + Let all be shamed and troubled sore, + that en'mies are to me; + Let them turn back, and suddenly + ashamèd let them be. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Observe here, (1.) David, a great saint, under grievous and manifold + troubles, sickness of body, conscience-felt charges of guilt, vexation + of mind, attended with desertion from God, and contemptuous insults + from his enemies, ver. 2, 3, 5, 7, 9. (2.) His supplications, with + strong cries and tears, to God for mitigation of trouble, support + under it, and deliverance from it, ver. 1, 4, 6. (3.) His triumphant + separation of himself from the wicked, in the full assurance of faith, + that God had heard, and would graciously grant his requests, and would + either convert or destroy his opposers, ver. 8, 10.<br/><br/><br/>In + all my afflictions, let me believe that Jesus was afflicted for me. + Let me call my sin to remembrance, spread my case before him, fill my + mouth with arguments; implore his abundant, free, and sovereign mercy, + as my sole and all-comprehensive relief. Nor let me ever expect a + comfortable answer to my prayers, while I cultivate an intimacy with + profane and wicked men. + + - number: 7 + suggested_tunes: + - Martyrdom + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O LORD my God, in thee do I + my confidence repose: + Save and deliver me from all + my persecuting foes; + + Lest that the enemy my soul + should, like a lion, tear, + In pieces rending it, while there + is no deliverer. + + O LORD my God, if it be so + that I committed this; + If it be so that in my hands + iniquity there is: + + If I rewarded ill to him + that was at peace with me; + (Yea, ev'n the man that without cause + my foe was I did free); + + Then let the foe pursue and take + my soul, and my life thrust + Down to the earth, and let him lay + mine honour in the dust. + + Rise in thy wrath, LORD, raise thyself, + for my foes raging be; + And, to the judgment which thou hast + commanded, wake for me. + + So shall th' assembly of thy folk + about encompass thee: + Thou therefore, for their sakes, return + unto thy place on high. + + The LORD he shall the people judge: + my judge, JEHOVAH, be, + After my righteousness, and mine + integrity in me. + + O let the wicked's malice end; + but stablish stedfastly + The righteous: for the righteous God + the hearts and reins doth try. + + In God, who saves th' upright in heart, + is my defence and stay. + God just men judgeth, God is wroth + with ill men ev'ry day. + + If he do not return again, + then he his sword will whet; + His bow he hath already bent, + and hath it ready set: + + He also hath for him prepared + the instruments of death; + Against the persecutors he + his shafts ordainèd hath. + + Behold, he with iniquity + doth travail, as in birth; + A mischief he conceivèd hath, + and falsehood shall bring forth. + + He made a pit, and digged it deep, + another there to take; + But he is fall'n into the ditch + which he himself did make. + + Upon his own head his mischief + shall be returnèd home; + His vi'lent dealing also down + on his own pate shall come. + + According to his righteousness + the LORD I'll magnify; + And will sing praise unto the name + of GOD that is most high. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Here, accused of traitorous conspiracy against his sovereign by king + Saul, or by Cush one of his courtiers, David, (1.) Appeals to God, + concerning his innocency of that crime, ver. 3-5. (2.) He supplicates, + that God, as governor of the world, and King of Israel, would protect + him from danger, plead his cause and give judgment for him, ver. 1, 2, + 6, 9. (3.) In the exercise of faith, he depends on God, to protect and + deliver him, and to avenge the injuries he had sustained upon his + implacable adversaries, ver. 10, 16. (4.) He resolves to ascribe the + glory of all his deliverances to God alone, ver. 17. While I sing, let + me contemplate the spotless innocency, the finished righteousness of + my Redeemer, together with the injurious usage he received from his + brethren of mankind and the fearful ruin which hath befallen, or + awaits his incorrigible foes. Let me carefully approve myself in his + sight who searcheth my heart, and trieth my reins, and who must + quickly be my final judge. Let me implore the just vengeance of + heaven, against my spiritual enemies. And not unto me, but to his name + be the glory and praise of all my protection and deliverance. + + - number: 8 + suggested_tunes: + - Winchester + - Richmond + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + How excellent in all the earth, + LORD, our Lord, is thy name! + Who hast thy glory far advanced + above the starry frame. + + From infants' and from sucklings' mouth + thou didest strength ordain, + For thy foes' cause, that so thou might'st + th' avenging foe restrain. + + When I look up unto the heav'ns, + which thine own fingers framed, + Unto the moon, and to the stars, + which were by thee ordained; + + Then say I, What is man, that he + remembered is by thee? + Or what the son of man, that thou + so kind to him should'st be? + + For thou a little lower hast + him than the angels made; + With glory and with dignity + thou crownèd hast his head. + + Of thy hands' works thou mad'st him lord, + all under 's feet didst lay; + All sheep and oxen, yea, and beasts + that in the field do stray; + + Fowls of the air, fish of the sea, + all that pass through the same. + How excellent in all the earth, + LORD, our Lord, is thy name! + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm contains a pleasant, but solemn meditation upon the glory, + the greatness, and the grace of God. Let me here observe, (1.) How + illustrious and widespread are all his glory and renown, ver. 1, 3, 9. + (2.) By how weak and insignificant instruments, he manifests and + spreads his superlative fame, ver. 2. (3.) Behold his marvellous + condescension and bounty to mankind, but chiefly to the man Christ, in + uniting his human nature to his divine person, and in giving him all + power in heaven and earth, for the benefit of his chosen people, ver. + 4-8.<br/><br/><br/> May this Jesus, this name of God in him, be the + enthroned inhabitant, the everlasting wonder, and the superlative + darling of my heart. Let me, with the babes of Jerusalem, Matt. 21, + pour forth my hosannas to him that cometh in the name of the Lord to + save me hosannas in the highest. Let all the works of nature lead, + and excite me to admire their Creator's kindness towards men towards + sinful and insignificant me. + + - number: 9 + suggested_tunes: + - Dunfermline + - St. Thomas + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + LORD, thee I'll praise with all my heart, + thy wonders all proclaim. + In thee, Most High, I'll greatly joy, + and sing unto thy name. + + When back my foes were turned, they fell, + and perished at thy sight: + For thou maintain'dst my right and cause; + on throne sat'st judging right. + + The heathen thou rebukèd hast, + the wicked overthrown; + Thou hast put out their names, that they + may never more be known. + + O en'my! now destructions have + an end perpetual: + Thou cities razed, perished with them + is their memorial. + + GOD shall endure for aye; he doth + for judgment set his throne; + In righteousness to judge the world, + justice to give each one. + + GOD also will a refuge be + for those that are oppressed; + A refuge will he be in times + of trouble to distressed. + + And they that know thy name, in thee + their confidence will place: + For thou hast not forsaken them + that truly seek thy face. + + O sing ye praises to the LORD + that dwells in Zion hill; + And all the nätions among + his deeds record ye still. + + When he enquireth after blood, + he then rememb'reth them: + The humble folk he not forgets + that call upon his name. + + LORD, pity me; behold the grief + which I from foes sustain; + Ev'n thou, who from the gates of death + dost raise me up again; + + That I, in Zion's daughters' gates, + may all thy praise advance; + And that I may rejoice always + in thy deliverance. + + The heathen are sunk in the pit + which they themselves prepared; + And in the net which they have hid + their own feet fast are snared. + + The LORD is by the judgment known + which he himself hath wrought: + The sinners' hands do make the snares + wherewith themselves are caught. + + They who are wicked into hell + each one shall turnèd be; + And all the nations that forget + to seek the Lord most high. + + For they that needy are shall not + forgotten be alway; + The expectation of the poor + shall not be lost for aye. + + Arise, LORD, let not man prevail; + judge heathen in thy sight: + That they may know themselves but men, + the nations, LORD, affright. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was, perhaps, composed on the occasion of his son Absalom's + death, 2 Sam. 18; or on the occasion of the death of Goliath the + champion and duellist of Gath, 1 Sam. 17. We have in it, (1.) David's + hearty thanksgivings to God, for his pleading of his cause against his + and his country's enemies, and for giving him a complete victory over + them, ver. 1-6, and his excitement of others to join with him therein, + ver. 11-12. (2). His triumph in God as the righteous judge of the + world, protector of his people, and the destroyer of his implacable + enemies, ver. 7-10, 15-18. (3.) His requests for further grounds of + praising God as his own deliverer, and the confounder of his enemies, + ver. 13-14, 19-20.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing these subjects, let me + chiefly consider the blessings of redemption, the victories of my + Redeemer over sin, death, and hell; and believe that I, through him, + shall be more than a conqueror. Let the ruin of transgressors + effectually admonish me to stand in awe of God, and at the furthest + distance from sin. + + - number: 10 + suggested_tunes: + - Martyrs + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Wherefore is it that thou, O LORD, + dost stand from us afar? + And wherefore hidest thou thyself + when times so troublous are? + + The wicked in his loftiness + doth persecute the poor: + In these devices they have framed + let them be taken sure. + + The wicked of his heart's desire + doth talk with boasting great; + He blesseth him that's covetous, + whom yet the LORD doth hate. + + The wicked, through his pride of face, + on God he doth not call; + And in the counsels of his heart + the Lord is not at all. + + His ways they always grievous are; + thy judgments from his sight + Removèd are: at all his foes + he puffeth with despite. + + Within his heart he thus hath said, + I shall not movèd be; + And no adversity at all + shall ever come to me. + + His mouth with cursing, fraud, deceit, + is filled abundantly; + And underneath his tongue there is + mischief and vanity. + + He closely sits in villages; + he slays the innocent: + Against the poor that pass him by + his cruel eyes are bent. + + He, lion-like, lurks in his den; + he waits the poor to take; + And when he draws him in his net, + his prey he doth him make. + + Himself he humbleth very low, + he croucheth down withal, + That so a multitude of poor + may by his strong ones fall. + + He thus hath said within his heart, + The Lord hath quite forgot; + He hides his countenance, and he + for ever sees it not. + + O LORD, do thou arise; O God, + lift up thine hand on high: + Put not the meek afflicted ones + out of thy memory. + + Why is it that the wicked man + thus doth the Lord despise? + Because that God will it require + he in his heart denies. + + Thou hast it seen; for their mischief + and spite thou wilt repay: + The poor commits himself to thee; + thou art the orphan's stay. + + The arm break of the wicked man, + and of the evil one; + Do thou seek out his wickedness, + until thou findest none. + + The LORD is king through ages all, + ev'n to eternity; + The heathen people from his land + are perished utterly. + + O LORD, of those that humble are + thou the desire didst hear; + Thou wilt prepare their heart, and thou + to hear wilt bend thine ear; + + To judge the fatherless, and those + that are oppressèd sore; + That man, that is but sprung of earth, + may them oppress no more. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + In this psalm of lamentation and woe, we have, (1.) David's mournful + complaints of God's withdrawment of his gracious and comfortable + presence, ver. 1. (2.) His mournful and shocking representation of the + wicked men, who persecuted him, during God's absence: They proudly + gloried in themselves; they counteracted the laws, and contemned the + judgments of God; they contradicted and defiled their opposers; they + were malicious, treacherous, crafty, hypocritical, and atheistical + persecutors, ver. 2-11. (3.) His earnest supplications for relief to + the people of God, attended with the firm faith of obtaining it, ver. + 12-18.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing these lines, ponder, O my soul, what + a privilege it is to enjoy familiar fellowship with God! What + abominations lie hid in an evil heart of unbelief! What a mercy, that + the Lord hath withheld me from that outrage in wickedness, of which my + corrupt nature is capable. Let all my views of sins and of judgments + cause me to flee to Jesus for relief. If he prepare my heart to pray, + he will surely grant my requests. + + - number: 11 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Magnus + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + I in the LORD do put my trust: + how is it then that ye + Say to my soul, Flee, as a bird, + unto your mountain high? + + For, lo, the wicked bend their bow, + their shafts on string they fit, + That those who upright are in heart + they privily may hit. + + If the foundations be destroyed, + what hath the righteous done? + GOD in his holy temple is, + in heaven is his throne: + + His eyes do see, his eyelids try + men's sons. The just he proves: + But his soul hates the wicked man, + and him that vi'lence loves. + + Snares, fire and brimstone, furious storms, + on sinners he shall rain: + This, as the portion of their cup, + doth unto them pertain. + + Because the LORD most righteous doth + in righteousness delight; + And with a pleasant countenance + beholdeth the upright. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Behold here, (1.) David, tempted by his timorous friends to escape to + some mountain, and hide himself from the fury of Saul, or of Absalom, + as if that were his only safe course now when his enemies were + exerting themselves to the uttermost, and all things were in disorder + and confusion, ver. 1-3. (2.) David baffling the temptation by a + resolute profession of his trust in God, as the observer of all men; + as the holy and righteous punisher of the wicked, and friend of the + godly, ver. 4-7.<br/><br/><br/>Let no temptation decoy me from my + duty. Let no danger deter me from it. While Jehovah, my reconciled God + and Father, manageth and judgeth the world, my safest course is to + commit myself to him in well-doing. Let the just vengeance of God upon + sinners deter my heart from sinning, and his kindness to his people + encourage me to holiness in all manner of conversation. + + - number: 12 + suggested_tunes: + - Dundee + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Help, LORD, because the godly man + doth daily fade away; + And from among the sons of men + the faithful do decay. + + Unto his neighbour everyone + doth utter vanity: + They with a double heart do speak, + and lips of flattery. + + GOD shall cut off all flatt'ring lips, + tongues that speak proudly thus, + We'll with our tongue prevail, our lips + are ours: who's lord o'er us? + + For poor oppressed, and for the sighs + of needy, rise will I, + Saith GOD, and him in safety set + from such as him defy. + + The words of GOD are words most pure; + they be like silver tried + In earthen furnace, seven times + that hath been purified. + + LORD, thou shalt them preserve and keep + for ever from this race. + On each side walk the wicked, when + vile men are high in place. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + In this psalm, which was probably penned during the reign of Saul, + observe, (1.) The times rendered extremely bad by the almost universal + death of the godly, the general decay of piety and honesty, the common + prevalence of dissimulation and flattery; by the proud and daring + contempt of God, and oppression of the poor; and by the protection and + encouragement of wickedness, by those that bare rule in church or + state, ver. 1-4, 8. (2.) Enough in God to balance the evils of the + worst of times. He is ready to help. He will in due time reckon with + the wicked, and restrain their insolence. He will seasonably and + effectually relieve his oppressed people. His words are pure, firm, + and faithful; and he will always secure a remnant for himself, ver. + 1-5, 6-7.<br/><br/><br/>In evil times, do thou, my soul, live on thy + God. Walk humbly with thy God. Hope continually in thy God; and + rejoice in his new covenant promises to men to me. + + - number: 13 + suggested_tunes: + - Martyrdom + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + How long wilt thou forget me, LORD? + shall it for ever be? + O how long shall it be that thou + wilt hide thy face from me? + + How long take counsel in my soul, + still sad in heart, shall I? + How long exalted over me + shall be mine enemy? + + O LORD my God, consider well, + and answer to me make: + Mine eyes enlighten, lest the sleep + of death me overtake: + + Lest that mine enemy should say, + Against him I prevailed; + And those that trouble me rejoice, + when I am moved and failed. + + But I have all my confidence + thy mercy set upon; + My heart within me shall rejoice + in thy salvätion. + + I will unto the LORD my God + sing praises cheerfully, + Because he hath his bounty shown + to me abundantly. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Here we have the Psalmist sowing in tears, but reaping in joy. + Observe, (1.) His extreme distress, occasioned by God's apparent + unkindness, and by inward anguish of soul, and the insolence of + enemies, ver. 1-2. (2.) His fervent supplications that God would + consider his case, strengthen his faith, direct his goings, and + comfort his heart, ver. 3-4. (3.) Sudden deliverance, flowing from a + fixed trust in God, and inducing to a triumphant joy in him, ver + 5-6.<br/><br/><br/>Think, my soul, how divine withdrawments, sensibly + perceived, sting a renewed heart! How changeable the saints' spiritual + frames are, while they continue in this world. Weeping endures for a + night, but joy cometh in the morning. And behold, how quickly the + prayers of faith are answered, and its expectations fulfilled! + + - number: 14 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Thomas + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + That there is not a God, the fool + doth in his heart conclude: + They are corrupt, their works are vile; + not one of them doth good. + + Upon men's sons the LORD from heav'n + did cast his eyes abroad, + To see if any understood, + and did seek after God. + + They altogether filthy are, + they all aside are gone; + And there is none that doeth good, + yea, sure there is not one. + + These workers of iniquity + do they not know at all, + That they my people eat as bread, + and on GOD do not call? + + There fear'd they much; for God is with + the whole race of the just. + You shame the counsel of the poor, + because GOD is his trust. + + Let Isr'el's help from Zion come: + when back the LORD shall bring + His captives, Jacob shall rejoice, + and Israèl shall sing. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm represents the fearful sinfulness and misery of mankind, + and the marvellous method of deliverance therefrom. Behold, here, (1.) + All mankind fearfully infected with the God -dishonouring, the soul- + debasing and defiling, the world -disturbing malady of sinful + corruption in heart and life, ver. 1-3. (2.) Warm expostulations for + the conviction, awakening, and reclaiming of wicked men, ver. 4-6. + (3.) Consolations exhibited to the righteous, from God's being among + them, and being a refuge to them; and from his sending his Son to save + and redeem them, ver. 5-7.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing these lines, let + me have a deep sense of my corruptions. Let me be ashamed of them + before God. Let me, with a broken heart and weeping eye, confess my + filthiness and crimes. Let me groan after and flee to Jesus, the + Saviour, the salvation of God. O wretched man that I am! who shall + deliver me from this abominable life, from this inward body of death! + Thanks to the Redeemer, who is come to Zion to turn away ungodliness + from Jacob! Let therefore Jacob rejoice and the Gentiles sing. + + - number: 15 + suggested_tunes: + - Bristol + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Within thy tabernacle, LORD, + who shall abide with thee? + And in thy high and holy hill + who shall a dweller be? + + The man that walketh uprightly, + and worketh righteousness, + And as he thinketh in his heart, + so doth he truth express. + + Who doth not slander with his tongue, + nor to his friend doth hurt; + Nor yet against his neighbour doth + take up an ill report. + + In whose eyes vile men are despised; + but those that GOD do fear + He honoureth; and changeth not, + though to his hurt he swear. + + His coin puts not to usury, + nor take reward will he + Against the guiltless. Who doth thus + shall never moved be. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Here let me, (1.) With wonder, observe the happy state of present + fellowship with God in his church on earth, and of everlasting + fellowship with him in the temple above; and how fixed the saints are + in this their new-covenant state, ver. 1, 5. (2.) Let me with self- + examination, remark the discriminating characters of such as are + admitted to that happy state: They are sincere, upright and honest in + all their ways; they are kind to neighbours; they esteem others in + proportion to the appearance of Christ's image on them; and they + prefer a good conscience to every earthly advantage, ver. + 2-5.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me think of my perfect and all- + sufficient Saviour, who is passed into the heavens; is entered there + for me, as the forerunner. And, having received him into my heart, as + my sanctifying furniture, let me walk in him as my way, and follow him + as my pattern, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, and living + soberly, righteously and godly in this present world. Thus shall the + Father and the Son come unto me on earth, and take up their abode with + me; and so shall I in heaven be for ever with the Lord. + + - number: 16 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Leonard + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Lord, keep me; for I trust in thee. + To GOD thus was my speech, + Thou art my Lord; and unto thee + my goodness doth not reach: + + To saints on earth, to th' excellent, + where my delight's all placed. + Their sorrows shall be multiplied + to other gods that haste: + + Of their drink-offerings of blood + I will no off'ring make; + Yea, neither I their very names + up in my lips will take. + + GOD is of mine inheritance + and cup the pörtion; + The lot that fallen is to me + thou dost maintain alone. + + Unto me happily the lines + in pleasant places fell; + Yea, the inheritance I got + in beauty doth excel. + + I bless the LORD, because he doth + by counsel me conduct; + And in the seasons of the night + my reins do me instruct. + + Before me still the LORD I set: + sith it is so that he + Doth ever stand at my right hand, + I shall not movèd be. + + Because of this my heart is glad, + and joy shall be expressed + Ev'n by my glory; and my flesh + in confidence shall rest. + + Because my soul in grave to dwell + shall not be left by thee; + Nor wilt thou give thine Holy One + corrüption to see. + + Thou wilt me show the path of life: + of joys there is full store + Before thy face; at thy right hand + are pleasures evermore. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is indeed a michtam, a golden psalm. Behold the man + according to God's heart, (1.) Committing himself to God as his + preserver, ver. 1. (2.) Avowing his endeared love to the people, and + strict adherence to the worship of God, ver. 3-4. (3.) With great + confidence and joy claiming God for his satisfying portion, ver. 2, + 5-7. (4.) Comforting himself in, and blessing God for his present + intimacy with him, and granting direction to him, and for his certain + prospect of the eternal enjoyment of him, ver. 8-11.<br/><br/><br/>But + chiefly behold here, Jesus, the man of God's right hand, surrendering + himself up to his Father's service, in room of, and for the + everlasting advantage of his elect! Behold him, taking out his new- + covenant claim to God, as his God and portion for ever; and as our God + and portion in him! Behold how, supported of God in his holy manhood, + he suffers unto a tremendous death, and debased burial; but being + raised again, he is crowned with everlasting glory and honour! Behold + how the agonies of suffering, and the pains of death, are succeeded + with fulness of joy, and rivers of life and pleasures, at God's right + hand for evermore! Looking to him, let me with patience run the race + that is set before me, living on, and rejoicing in God, as my all, and + in all; and looking for the blessed hope, and glorious appearing of + the great God my Saviour. Through him, neither sin, nor devils, nor + death, nor hell, shall be able to prevent my immediate and everlasting + enjoyment of Jehovah, as my infinite portion and exceeding joy. + + - number: 17 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Peter + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + LORD, hear the right, attend my cry, + unto my pray'r give heed, + That doth not in hypocrisy + from feignèd lips proceed. + + And from before thy presence forth + my sentence do thou send: + Toward these things that equal are + do thou thine eyes intend. + + Thou prov'dst mine heart, thou visit'dst me + by night, thou didst me try, + Yet nothing found'st; for that my mouth + shall not sin, purposed I. + + As for men's works, I, by the word + that from thy lips doth flow, + Did me preserve out of the paths + wherein destroyers go. + + Hold up my goings, Lord, me guide + in those thy paths divine, + So that my footsteps may not slide + out of those ways of thine. + + I callèd have on thee, O God, + because thou wilt me hear: + That thou may'st hearken to my speech, + to me incline thine ear. + + Thy wondrous loving-kindness show, + thou that, by thy right hand, + Sav'st them that trust in thee from those + that up against them stand. + + As th' apple of the eye me keep; + in thy wings' shade me close + From lewd oppressors, compassing + me round, as deadly foes. + + In their own fat they are inclosed; + their mouth speaks loftily. + Our steps they compassed; and to ground + down bowing set their eye. + + He like unto a lion is + that's greedy of his prey, + Or lion young, which lurking doth + in secret places stay. + + Arise, and disappoint my foe, + and cast him down, O LORD: + My soul save from the wicked man, + the man which is thy sword. + + From men, which are thy hand, O LORD, + from worldly men me save, + Which only in this present life + their part and portion have. + + Whose belly with thy treasure hid + thou fill'st: they children have + In plenty; of their goods the rest + they to their children leave. + + But as for me, I thine own face + in righteousness will see; + And with thy likeness, when I wake, + I satisfied shall be. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Here in the depths of distress, (1.) David appeals to God concerning + the integrity of his heart, and the justness of his cause, ver. 1-4. + (2) He prays for establishment in grace within, for tokens of divine + favour from above; and for preservation from his carnal, malicious and + insolent, his restless and powerful enemies, around, ver. 5-14. (3.) + His triumphs in the assured faith of his everlasting enjoyment of, and + conformity to God, ver. 15.<br/><br/><br/>Let me also here look after + Jesus, in whose heart was no deceit, and in whose mouth was no guile: + Jesus, who fulfilled all righteousness for me; and who, + notwithstanding all the rage of devils and men, hath sat down at the + right hand of God, crowned with glory and honour. Let me remember, + that he, as the forerunner is for me entered into mansions of bliss; + and hath left me an example, that I should follow his steps. + + - number: 18 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Magnus + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Thee will I love, O LORD, my strength. + My fortress is the LORD, + My rock, and he that doth to me + deliverance afford: + + My God, my strength, whom I will trust, + a buckler unto me, + The horn of my salvätion, + and my high tow'r, is he. + + Upon the LORD, who worthy is + of praises, will I cry; + And then shall I preservèd be + safe from mine enemy. + + Floods of ill men affrighted me, + death's pangs about me went; + Hell's sorrows me environèd; + death's snares did me prevent. + + In my distress I called on God, + cry to my God did I; + He from his temple heard my voice, + to his ears came my cry. + + Th' earth, as affrighted, then did shake, + trembling upon it seized: + The hills' foundations movèd were, + because he was displeased. + + Up from his nostrils came a smoke, + and from his mouth there came + Devouring fire, and coals by it + were turnèd into flame. + + He also bowèd down the heav'ns, + and thence he did descend; + And thickest clouds of darkness did + under his feet attend. + + And he upon a cherub rode, + and thereon he did fly; + Yea, on the swift wings of the wind + his flight was from on high. + + He darkness made his secret place: + about him, for his tent, + Dark waters were, and thickest clouds + of th' airy firmament. + + And at the brightness of that light, + which was before his eye, + His thick clouds passed away, hailstones + and coals of fire did fly. + + The LORD God also in the heav'ns + did thunder in his ire; + And there the Highest gave his voice, + hailstones and coals of fire. + + Yea, he his arrows sent abroad, + and them he scatterèd; + His lightnings also he shot out, + and them discomfited. + + The waters' channels then were seen, + the world's foundations vast + At thy rebuke discovered were, + and at thy nostrils' blast. + + And from above the Lord sent down, + and took me from below; + From many waters he me drew, + which would me overflow. + + He me relieved from my strong foes, + and such as did me hate; + Because he saw that they for me + too strong were, and too great. + + They me prevented in the day + of my calamity; + But even then the LORD himself + a stay was unto me. + + He to a place where liberty + and room was hath me brought; + Because he took delight in me, + he my deliv'rance wrought. + + According to my righteousness + he did me recompense, + He me repaid according to + my hands' pure innocence. + + For I GOD's ways kept, from my God + did not turn wickedly. + His judgments were before me, I + his laws put not from me. + + Sincere before him was my heart; + with him upright was I; + And watchfully I kept myself + from mine iniquity. + + After my righteousness the LORD + hath recompensèd me, + After the cleanness of my hands + appearing in his eye. + + Thou gracious to the gracious art, + to upright men upright: + Pure to the pure, froward thou kyth'st + unto the froward wight. + + For thou wilt the afflicted save + in grief that low do lie: + But wilt bring down the countenance + of them whose looks are high. + + The LORD will light my candle so, + that it shall shine full bright: + The LORD my God will also make + my darkness to be light. + + By thee through troops of men I break, + and them discomfit all; + And, by my God assisting me, + I overleap a wall. + + As for God, perfect is his way: + the LORD his word is tried; + He is a buckler to all those + who do in him confide. + + Who but the LORD is God? but he + who is a rock and stay? + 'Tis God that girdeth me with strength, + and perfect makes my way. + + He made my feet swift as the hinds, + set me on my high places. + Mine hands to war he taught, mine arms + brake bows of steel in pieces. + + The shield of thy salvätion + thou didst on me bestow: + Thy right hand held me up, and great + thy kindness made me grow. + + And in my way my steps thou hast + enlargèd under me, + That I go safely, and my feet + are kept from sliding free. + + Mine en'mies I pursuèd have, + and did them overtake; + Nor did I turn again till I + an end of them did make. + + I wounded them, they could not rise; + they at my feet did fall. + Thou girdest me with strength for war; + my foes thou brought'st down all: + + And thou hast giv'n to me the necks + of all mine enemies; + That I might them destroy and slay, + who did against me rise. + + They crièd out, but there was none + that would or could them save; + Yea, they did cry unto the LORD, + but he no answer gave. + + Then did I beat them small as dust + before the wind that flies; + And I did cast them out like dirt + upon the street that lies. + + Thou mad'st me free from people's strife, + and heathen's head to be: + A people whom I have not known + shall service do to me. + + At hearing they shall me obey, + to me they shall submit. + Strangers for fear shall fade away, + who in close places sit. + + GOD lives, bless'd be my Rock; the God + of my health praisèd be. + God doth avenge me, and subdues + the people under me. + + He saves me from mine enemies; + yea, thou hast lifted me + Above my foes; and from the man + of vi'lence set me free. + + Therefore to thee will I give thanks + the heathen folk among; + And to thy name, O LORD, I will + sing praises in a song. + + He great deliv'rance gives his king: + he mercy doth extend + To David, his anointed one, + and his seed without end. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + In this psalm of thanksgiving for manifold deliverances, observe, (1.) + David's ardent love to God in Christ, whom he believed to be his own, + in every gracious and saving relation; and whom he had experienced his + merciful, almighty, and seasonable deliverer, from depths of trouble, + ver. 1-19. (2.) His comfortable reflections, on the integrity which + the Lord had enabled him to maintain, and on the gracious kindness of + God, consequential thereupon, ver. 20-28. (3.) His thankful ascription + of all the glory of his noted exploits to God, as his director and + strengthener, ver. 29-42. (4.) His triumphant faith and hope, of + further assistance and favour from God, to himself and to his seed for + evermore, ver. 43-50.<br/><br/><br/>But let me not forget Jesus, to + whom Jehovah is so closely, so marvellously, so sweetly related: + Jesus, who so ardently loveth his eternal Father, and for ever returns + the grateful remembrance of his kindness to him, and to his chosen + seed, in delivering him from distress; in raising him from the dead; + in rewarding his obedience unto death, in giving him glory at his own + right hand, and in rendering all nations his obedient subjects. Let me + sing this new song, in the full assurance of faith, that God in Christ + is my all and in all; and with a heart ravished with the consolations + of Christ, and in the sweet reviews of what he hath done, what he + doth, and what he will for ever do, for my soul. + + - number: 19 + suggested_tunes: + - Crediton + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + The heav'ns God's glory do declare, + the skies his hand-works preach: + Day utters speech to day, and night + to night doth knowledge teach. + + There is no speech nor tongue to which + their voice doth not extend: + Their line is gone through all the earth, + their words to the world's end. + + In them he set the sun a tent; + Who, bridegroom-like, forth goes + From's chamber, as a strong man doth + to run his race rejoice. + + From heav'n's end is his going forth, + circling to th' end again; + And there is nothing from his heat + that hidden doth remain. + + GOD's law is perfect, and converts + the soul in sin that lies: + GOD's testimony is most sure, + and makes the simple wise. + + The statutes of the LORD are right, + and do rejoice the heart: + The LORD's command is pure, and doth + light to the eyes impart. + + Unspotted is the fear of GOD, + and doth endure for ever: + The judgments of the LORD are true + and righteous altogether. + + They more than gold, yea, much fine gold, + to be desirèd are: + Than honey, honey from the comb + that droppeth, sweeter far. + + Moreover, they thy servant warn + how he his life should frame: + A great reward provided is + for them that keep the same. + + Who can his errors understand? + O cleanse thou me within + From secret faults. Thy servant keep + from all presumptuous sin: + + And do not suffer them to have + dominion over me: + Then rïghteous and innocent + I from much sin shall be. + + The words which from my mouth proceed, + the thoughts sent from my heart, + Accept, O LORD, for thou my strength + and my Redeemer art. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Now the books of God are opened, not for my trial and condemnation in + the last judgment, but for my instruction. Let my soul look and read + therein (1.) The book of creation and providence, in which all the + works of God instruct mankind in general, concerning the eternal + wisdom, power and goodness, of their Maker, ver. 1-6. (2.) The book of + inspiration; the sure, the right, the pure, the true, the perfect and + powerful oracles of which instruct, convert, comfort, and warm the + members of the church; and in keeping of which there is an exceeding + great and everlasting reward of glory obtained, ver. 7-11. (3.) What + conviction of sin! what supplication for pardon of it, and + preservation from it! and for the acceptance of our duties through + Jesus' blood, doth or ought to ensue upon a proper perusal of these + volumes of heaven, ver. 12-14.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing these + matters, let me, conscious of my own ignorance and folly, in all + things consult the mind of God. Let me blush that my experience of the + powerful influences of God's word is so scanty; and that in me, still + dwell such fearful remains of sinful corruption. Let me cry mightily + to God, for the subduing and destruction thereof. + + - number: 20 + suggested_tunes: + - Walsall + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + JEHOVAH hear thee in the day + when trouble he doth send: + And let the name of Jacob's God + thee from all ill defend. + + O let him help send from above, + out of his sanctuary: + From Zion, his own holy hill, + let him give strength to thee. + + Let him remember all thy gifts, + accept thy sacrifice: + Grant thee thine heart's wish, and fulfil + thy thoughts and counsel wise. + + In thy salvation we will joy; + in our God's name we will + Display our banners: and the LORD + thy prayers all fulfil. + + Now know I GOD his king doth save: + he from his holy heav'n + Will hear him, with the saving strength + by his own right hand giv'n. + + In chariots some put confidence, + some horses trust upon: + But we remember will the name + of our LORD God alone. + + We rise, and upright stand, when they + are bowèd down, and fall. + Deliver, LORD; and let the King + us hear, when we do call. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Probably this psalm was composed, to be a prayer for success in some + particular expedition of David's wars. Here, (1.) The people pray for + their king, that God would grant him his requests; protect, assist, + and strengthen him in his work; accept his oblations, and succeed his + projects for the public welfare, ver. 1-4. (2.) They triumph in God as + their only strength and deliverer, in whom they shall be more than + conquerors, ver. 5-6.<br/><br/><br/>Let me not forget Jesus, for whom + prayer is made continually; Jesus, who shall daily be praised, and + whom the Father heareth always; accepts his sacrifice, and crowns him + with glory and honour. And let no creature, but Jehovah as my God in + Christ, be the ground and the object of all my faith and expectation. + + - number: 21 + suggested_tunes: + - Stockton + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + The king in thy great strength, O LORD, + shall very joyful be: + In thy salvätion rejoice + how veh'mently shall he! + + Thou hast bestowèd upon him + all that his heart would have; + And thou from him didst not withhold + whate'er his lips did crave. + + For thou with blessings him prevent'st + of goodness manifold; + And thou hast set upon his head + a crown of purest gold. + + When he desirèd life of thee, + thou life to him didst give; + Ev'n such a length of days, that he + for evermore should live. + + In that salvation wrought by thee + his glory is made great; + Honour and comely majesty + thou hast upon him set. + + Because that thou for evermore + most blessèd hast him made; + And thou hast with thy countenance + made him exceeding glad. + + Because the king upon the LORD + his confidence doth lay; + And through the grace of the Most High + shall not be moved away. + + Thine hand shall all those men find out + that en'mies are to thee; + Ev'n thy right hand shall find out those + of thee that haters be. + + Like fiery ov'n thou shalt them make, + when kindled is thine ire; + GOD shall them swallow in his wrath, + devour them shall the fire. + + Their fruit from earth thou shalt destroy, + their seed men from among: + For they beyond their might 'gainst thee + did plot mischief and wrong. + + Thou therefore shalt make them turn back, + when thou thy shafts shalt place + Upon thy strings, made ready all + to fly against their face. + + In thy great pow'r and strength, O LORD, + be thou exalted high; + So shall we sing with joyful hearts, + thy power praise shall we. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + In this song of thanksgiving, observe, (1.) All the joys, the honours, + and happiness, of king David, founded in the perfections and gracious + works of God, ver. 1-6. (2.) Full assurance of the stability of + David's throne, and of the discovery and destruction of his implacable + opposers, ver. 7-12. (3.) Earnest supplications to God, for the + exhilarating displays of his glory and power, ver. + 13.<br/><br/><br/>But chiefly, my soul, behold here, the everlasting + honours, joys, happiness, and blissful influences of thy Redeemer! + Behold how fixed in his kingdom and dignity, in the infinite, + everlasting, and unchangeable wisdom, power, mercy, equity, goodness + and truth of the Most High! Behold, what inexpressible vengeance + kindles upon and destroys his Jewish, his Heathen, his Antichristian, + and other incorrigible foes! Rejoice my soul, in this God thy + Saviour. Rejoice at the glory wherewith he is crowned: at the life + granted to, and lodged in him; and in his being made blessings for + evermore to men; blessings for evermore to me. And let the ruinous + overthrow of his Jewish or other enemies, make me stand in awe to + provoke him, by presumptuous refusal of him, or rebellion against him. + + - number: 22 + suggested_tunes: + - Bangor + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + My God, my God, why hast thou me + forsaken? why so far + Art thou from helping me, and from + my words that roaring are? + + All day, my God, to thee I cry, + yet am not heard by thee; + And in the season of the night + I cannot silent be. + + But thou art holy, thou that dost + inhabit Isr'el's praise. + Our fathers hoped in thee, they hoped, + and thou didst them release. + + When unto thee they sent their cry, + to them deliv'rance came: + Because they put their trust in thee, + they were not put to shame. + + But as for me, a worm I am, + and as no man am prized: + Reproach of men I am, and by + the people am despised. + + All that me see laugh me to scorn; + shoot out the lip do they; + They nod and shake their heads at me, + and, mocking, thus do say, + + This man did trust in GOD, that he + would free him by his might: + Let him deliver him, sith he + had in him such delight. + + But thou art he out of the womb + that didst me safely take; + When I was on my mother's breasts + thou me to hope didst make. + + And I was cast upon thy care, + ev'n from the womb till now; + And from my mother's belly, Lord, + my God and guide art thou. + + Be not far off, for grief is near, + and none to help is found. + Bulls many compass me, strong bulls + of Bashan me surround. + + Their mouths they opened wide on me, + upon me gape did they, + Like to a lion ravening + and roaring for his prey. + + Like water I'm poured out, my bones + all out of joint do part: + Amidst my bowels, as the wax, + so melted is my heart. + + My strength is like a potsherd dried; + my tongue it cleaveth fast + Unto my jaws; and to the dust + of death thou brought me hast. + + For dogs have compassed me about: + the wicked, that did meet + In their assembly, me inclosed; + they pierced my hands and feet. + + I all my bones may tell; they do + upon me look and stare. + Upon my vesture lots they cast, + and clothes among them share. + + But be not far, O LORD, my strength; + haste to give help to me. + From sword my soul, from pow'r of dogs + my darling set thou free. + + Out of the roaring lion's mouth + do thou me shield and save: + For from the horns of unicorns + an ear to me thou gave. + + I will show forth thy name unto + those that my brethren are; + Amidst the congregätion + thy praise I will declare. + + Praise ye the LORD, who do him fear; + him glorify all ye + The seed of Jacob: fear him all + that Isr'el's children be. + + For he despised not nor abhorred + th' afflicted's misery; + Nor from him hid his face, but heard + when he to him did cry. + + Within the congregation great + my praise shall be of thee; + My vows before them that him fear + shall be performed by me. + + The meek shall eat, and shall be filled; + they also praise shall give + Unto the LORD that do him seek: + your heart shall ever live. + + All ends of th' earth remember shall, + and turn the LORD unto; + All kindreds of the nätions + to him shall homage do: + + Because the kingdom to the LORD + doth appertain as his; + Likewise among the nätions + the Governor he is. + + Earth's fat ones eat, and worship shall: + all who to dust descend + Shall bow to him; none of them can + his soul from death defend. + + A seed shall service do to him; + unto the Lord it shall + Be for a generätion + reckoned in ages all. + + They shall come, and they shall declare + his truth and righteousness + Unto a people yet unborn, + and that he hath done this. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Here the debasement and exaltation of David, king of Israel, are + merely subservient to, and figurative of the debasement and exaltation + of Jesus Christ, our blessed Aijeleth Shahar, Hind of the + Morning<br/><br/><br/>I. In this deep debasement we find, (1.) Bitter, + but kindly and believing, complaints of God's withdrawment; attended + with earnest attempts of faith to quiet the complainer's soul under + it, drawn from the consideration of God's holiness and highness, and + his seasonable deliverance of his people in former times, when they + cried to him, ver. 1-5. (2.) Bitter complaints of men's reproaches and + contemptuous derision; attended with self encouragements, drawn from + former experience of God's early and seasonable care and friendship, + ver. 6-10. (3.) Bitter complaints of the number and rage of enemies, + attended with exquisite agonies of body and mind, and mingled with + earnest prayers for God's speedy supports, assistance, and powerful + deliverance, ver. 11-21.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing these, let me + behold the vileness, the criminality, the destructive influence of + sin! Let me behold the sovereignty of God, who not only scourgeth + every son whom he receiveth, but spared not his only begotten Son, but + delivered him up for us all! Behold, how he hates, how he punisheth + our sin! And what manner of love he bestowed upon us, that we might be + called the sons of God! Behold, how he commendeth his love unto us, in + that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us! And if Jesus, + with patience bore such desertion, reproach, and distress; let me, in + the firm faith that he did all for me, and that God is mine, and + maketh all things work for my good, study an unhampered resignation to + his will.<br/><br/><br/>II. By the typical exaltation of David, and + the increase, happiness, honour, and duration of his kingdom, we have + prefigured the glorious exaltation of our Redeemer; importing, that he + should have a church among men; that his Father should be glorified in + them as well as in him; that his true subjects should abound in + prayer, praise, spiritual comfort, and everlasting life; and that his + church should be enlarged with multitudes of both Jews and Gentiles, + and should, to his honour, and for his worship and service, continue + to all generations, ver. 22-31.<br><br/><br/>While I sing this, let me + trust, and rejoice in, and plead his promises, relative to myself and + his church. Let me ponder, whether I have heard his voice, shared his + saving pity, feasted on his spiritual provision, and worshipped him in + spirit, and in truth! And whether it is the desire of my soul to cause + his name to be remembered to all generations. + + - number: 23 + suggested_tunes: + - Crimond + - St. Columba + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + The LORD's my shepherd, I'll not want. + He makes me down to lie + In pastures green: he leadeth me + the quiet waters by. + + My soul he doth restore again; + and me to walk doth make + Within the paths of righteousness, + ev'n for his own name's sake. + + Yea, though I walk in death's dark vale, + yet will I fear none ill: + For thou art with me; and thy rod + and staff me comfort still. + + My table thou hast furnishèd + in presence of my foes; + My head thou dost with oil anoint, + and my cup overflows. + + Goodness and mercy all my life + shall surely follow me: + And in GOD's house for evermore + my dwelling-place shall be. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Here is the children's psalm, and which is, in very deed, a noted song + of all the children of God. Behold, (1.) New-covenant relation to God, + as a full and everlasting security against hurtful wants, ver. 1. (2.) + Pleasant experience of God's acting up to his new-covenant character, + in disposing of, directing, assisting, feasting and comforting his + people, ver. 2-3, 5. (3.) Well-grounded hopes of God's careful and + seasonable supplies; of his comfortable presence and help amidst + distress and death; of the perpetual and everlasting manifestation of + his mercy and grace to us-ward; and of our endless nearness to, and + immediate enjoyment of him, ver. 1, 4, 5-6.<br/><br/><br/>While I + sing, let me think, as before God, whether I have the experimental + knowledge of all these things. Let my soul be as a daughter of the + horse-leech, crying mightily, Give, give what is good. And let me, in + all these forms, taste and see that God is good. + + - number: 24 + suggested_tunes: + - Winchester + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + The earth belongs unto the LORD, + and all that it contains; + The world that is inhabited, + and all that there remains. + + For the foundätions thereof + he on the seas did lay, + And he hath it establishèd + upon the floods to stay. + + Who is the man that shall ascend + into the hill of GOD? + Or who within his holy place + shall have a firm abode? + + Whose hands are clean, whose heart is pure, + and unto vanity + Who hath not lifted up his soul, + nor sworn deceitfully. + + He from th' ETERNAL shall receive + the blessing him upon, + And righteousness, ev'n from the God + of his salvätion. + + This is the generätion + that after him enquire, + O Jacob, who do seek thy face + with their whole heart's desire. + + Ye gates, lift up your heads on high; + ye doors that last for aye, + Be lifted up, that so the King + of glory enter may. + + But who of glory is the King? + The mighty LORD is this; + Ev'n that same LORD, that great in might + and strong in battle is. + + Ye gates, lift up your heads; ye doors, + doors that do last for aye, + Be lifted up, that so the King + of glory enter may. + + But who is he that is the King + of glory? who is this? + The LORD of hosts, and none but he, + the King of glory is. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Probably this psalm was penned for use of the Hebrews, when David + brought up the ark of God to Jerusalem, or when Solomon brought it + into the temple, 2 Sam. 6, 1 Kings 8, in order to raise their hearts + above their external ceremonies, to a reception of, and walking in + Christ, who was thereby prefigured. Observe, (1.) Christ's kingdom of + nature, comprehending the whole world and all the inhabitants thereof, + ver. 1-2. (2.) His kingdom of grace in the nature of it; the gracious + character of its subjects; and their charter to their everlasting + happiness above, ver. 3-6. (3.) Under the figure of a call to admit + the ark, we have a solemn summons, issued forth by God, for the + heavens to receive Jesus, our glorious and almighty King, into their + blissful abodes in his ascension; and for us to receive him into our + hearts and societies below, ver. 7-10.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let + me be affected with the double claim the Redeemer hath on me as his + creature, and as his ransomed one. Let me try whether I possess the + distinguishing characters of a real saint; and whether I have received + an abundance of the gift of righteousness, and of blessedness from the + God of my salvation. Let me charge, let me rouse up all my inward + powers, to receive Jesus Christ the Lord, as made of God unto me, + wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption. + + - number: 25 + suggested_tunes: + - Selma + metre: S.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + To thee I lift my soul: + O LORD, I trust in thee: + My God, let me not be asham'd, + nor foes triumph o'er me. + + Let none that wait on thee + be put to shame at all; + But those that without cause transgress, + let shame upon them fall. + + Show me thy ways, O LORD; + thy paths, O teach thou me: + And do thou lead me in thy truth, + therein my teacher be: + + For thou art God that dost + to me salvation send, + And I upon thee all the day + expecting do attend. + + Thy tender mercies, LORD, + I pray thee to remember, + And loving-kindnesses; for they + have been of old for ever. + + My sins and faults of youth + do thou, O LORD, forget: + After thy mercy think on me, + and for thy goodness great. + + GOD good and upright is: + the way he'll sinners show. + The meek in judgment he will guide, + and make his path to know. + + The whole paths of the LORD + are truth and mercy sure, + To those that do his cov'nant keep, + and testimonies pure. + + Now, for thine own name's sake, + O LORD, I thee entreat + To pardon mine iniquity; + for it is very great. + + What man is he that fears + the LORD, and doth him serve? + Him shall he teach the way that he + shall choose, and still observe. + + His soul shall dwell at ease; + and his posterity + Shall flourish still, and of the earth + inheritors shall be. + + With those that fear him is + the secret of the LORD; + The knowledge of his covènant + he will to them afford. + + Mine eyes upon the LORD + continually are set; + For he it is that shall bring forth + my feet out of the net. + + Turn unto me thy face, + and to me mercy show; + Because that I am desolate, + and am brought very low. + + My heart's griefs are increased: + me from distress relieve. + See mine affliction and my pain, + and all my sins forgive. + + Consider thou my foes, + because they many are; + And it a cruel hatred is + which they against me bear. + + O do thou keep my soul, + do thou deliver me: + And let me never be ashamed, + because I trust in thee. + + Let uprightness and truth + keep me, who thee attend. + Redemption, Lord, to Israel + from all his troubles send. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Probably this psalm was penned for use of the Hebrews, when David + brought up the ark of God to Jerusalem, or when Solomon brought it + into the temple, 2 Sam. 6, 1 Kings 8, in order to raise their hearts + above their external ceremonies, to a reception of, and walking in + Christ, who was thereby prefigured. Observe, (1.) Christ's kingdom of + nature, comprehending the whole world and all the inhabitants thereof, + ver. 1-2. (2.) His kingdom of grace in the nature of it; the gracious + character of its subjects; and their charter to their everlasting + happiness above, ver. 3-6. (3.) Under the figure of a call to admit + the ark, we have a solemn summons, issued forth by God, for the + heavens to receive Jesus, our glorious and almighty King, into their + blissful abodes in his ascension; and for us to receive him into our + hearts and societies below, ver. 7-10.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let + me be affected with the double claim the Redeemer hath on me as his + creature, and as his ransomed one. Let me try whether I possess the + distinguishing characters of a real saint; and whether I have received + an abundance of the gift of righteousness, and of blessedness from the + God of my salvation. Let me charge, let me rouse up all my inward + powers, to receive Jesus Christ the Lord, as made of God unto me, + wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption. + + - number: 25 + suggested_tunes: + - Selma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: true + text: | + To thee I lift my soul, O LORD: + my God, I trust in thee: + Let me not be ashamed; let not + my foes triumph o'er me. + + Yea, let thou none ashamèd be + that do on thee attend: + Ashamèd let them be, O Lord, + who without cause offend. + + Thy ways, LORD, show; teach me thy paths: + lead me in truth, teach me: + For of my safety thou art God; + all day I wait on thee. + + Thy mercies, that most tender are, + do thou, O LORD, remember, + And loving-kindnesses; for they + have been of old for ever. + + Let not the errors of my youth, + nor sins, remembered be: + In mercy, for thy goodness' sake, + O LORD, remember me. + + The LORD is good and gräcious, + he upright is also: + He therefore sinners will instruct + in ways that they should go. + + The meek and lowly he will guide + in judgment just alway: + To meek and poor afflicted ones + he'll clearly teach his way. + + The whole paths of the LORD our God + are truth and mercy sure, + To such as keep his covènant, + and testimonies pure. + + Now, for thine own name's sake, O LORD, + I humbly thee entreat + To pardon mine iniquity; + for it is very great. + + What man fears GOD? him shall he teach + the way that he shall choose. + His soul shall dwell at ease; his seed + the earth, as heirs, shall use. + + The secret of the LORD is with + such as do fear his name; + And he his holy covènant + will manifest to them. + + Towards the LORD my waiting eyes + continually are set; + For he it is that shall bring forth + my feet out of the net. + + O turn thee unto me, O God, + have mercy me upon; + Because I solitary am, + and in afflïction. + + Enlarged the griefs are of mine heart; + me from distress relieve. + See mine affliction and my pain, + and all my sins forgive. + + Consider thou mine enemies, + because they many are; + And it a cruel hatred is + which they against me bear. + + O do thou keep my soul; O God, + do thou deliver me: + Let me not be ashamed; for I + do put my trust in thee. + + O let integrity and truth + keep me, who thee attend. + Redemption, Lord, to Israel + from all his troubles send. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + In singing this psalm, let me observe, (1.) What serious work prayer + is; what lifting up of soul, what directing of eyes to God, and fixing + them on him, must be in it! ver. 1-15. (2.) What mercies ought to be + prayed for Pardon of sin, ver. 6, 7-18; direction in duty, ver. 4-5; + familiar intimacy with God, ver. 10; deliverance from trouble, ver. + 17-18; preservation from adversaries, ver. 20-21; and, in fine, safety + and deliverance to the church, ver. 22. (3.)What pleas are proper to + be used in prayer; as, the trust we have reposed in God, ver. 2-3, + 5-21; our own divinely affected sincerity in the Lord's way, ver. 21; + our distress, and the malice of our enemies, ver. 2, 16-19; but + chiefly, the mercy that is in God, and the glory which redounds to his + name from his bestowing of new-covenant favours, ver. 6-11. (4.) + Strong encouragements to prayer taken from the perfections of God's + nature; from his promises of instruction and direction; from the + fulness and grace of his covenant; and from his delight in allowing + men familiar intimacy and fellowship with himself, ver. + 8-14.<br/><br/><br/>Let these things, my soul, be the object of thy + strictest care and attention, in all thy addresses to God. + + - number: 26 + suggested_tunes: + - Hermon + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Judge me, O LORD, for I have walked + in mine integrity: + I trusted also in the LORD; + slide therefore shall not I. + + Examine me, and do me prove; + try heart and reins, O GOD: + For thy love is before mine eyes, + thy truth's paths I have trod. + + With persons vain I have not sat, + nor with dissemblers gone: + Th' assembly of ill men I hate; + to sit with such I shun. + + Mine hands in innocence, O LORD, + I'll wash and purify; + So to thine holy altar go, + and compass it will I: + + That I, with voice of thanksgiving, + may publish and declare, + And tell of all thy mighty works, + that great and wondrous are. + + The habitation of thy house, + LORD, I have lovèd well; + Yea, in that place I do delight + where doth thine honour dwell. + + With sinners gather not my soul, + and such as blood would spill: + Whose hands mischievous plots, right hand + corrupting bribes do fill. + + But as for me, I will walk on + in mine integrity: + Do thou redeem me, and, O Lord, + be merciful to me. + + My foot upon an even place + doth stand with stedfastness: + Within the congregätions + th' ETERNAL I will bless. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Here, (1.) David solemnly appeals to God concerning his integrity; + his constant regard to him and his grace; his regular attendance upon + instituted ordinances: and his fixed aversion to sin and sinners, ver. + 1-8. (2.) He deprecates from himself, the condemnation of the wicked, + and his being shut up in society with them, ver. 9-10. (3.) Depending + on the mercy of God, he resolves to hold fast his integrity, and + maintain his confident hopes of eternal life, ver. + 11-12.<br/><br/><br/> While I sing, let the perfect God-man come into + my mind. Let me wash myself in his blood, and so compass God's altar + with songs of praise for his favours. Making Jesus' example my + pattern, let his ordinances be my pleasure, and his people my sole + intimates and familiars on earth. + + - number: 27 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Ladywell + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + The LORD's my light and saving health, + who shall make me dismayed? + My life's strength is the LORD, of whom + then shall I be afraid? + + When as mine enemies and foes, + most wicked persons all, + To eat my flesh against me rose, + they stumbled and did fall. + + Against me though an host encamp, + my heart yet fearless is: + Though war against me rise, I will + be confident in this. + + One thing I of the LORD desired, + and will seek to obtain, + That all days of my life I may + within GOD's house remain; + + That I the beauty of the LORD + behold may and admire, + And that I in his holy place + may rev'rently enquire. + + For he in his pavilion shall + me hide in evil days; + In secret of his tent me hide, + and on a rock me raise. + + And now, ev'n at this present time, + mine head shall lifted be + Above all those that are my foes, + and round encompass me: + + Therefore unto his tabernacle + I'll sacrifices bring + Of joyfulness; I'll sing, yea, I + to GOD will praises sing. + + O LORD, give ear unto my voice, + when I do cry to thee; + Upon me also mercy have, + and do thou answer me. + + When thou didst say, Seek ye my face, + then unto thee reply + Thus did my heart, Above all things + thy face, LORD, seek will I. + + Far from me hide not thou thy face; + put not away from thee + Thy servant in thy wrath: thou hast + an helper been to me. + + O God of my salvätion, + leave me not, nor forsake: + Though me my parents both should leave, + the LORD will me up take. + + O LORD, instruct me in thy way, + to me a leader be + In a plain path, because of those + that hatred bear to me. + + Give me not to mine en'mies' will; + for witnesses that lie + Against me risen are, and such + as breathe out cruelty. + + I fainted had, unless that I + believèd had to see + The LORD's own goodness in the land + of them that living be. + + Wait on the LORD, and be thou strong, + and he shall strength afford + Unto thine heart; yea, do thou wait, + I say, upon the LORD. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + For thy instruction, my soul, behold here, (1.) The holy courage and + undaunted bravery of true faith, amidst manifold dangers and enemies, + ver. 1-3. (2.) What earnestness there ought to be, and what pleasure, + profit, and honour there are, in the study of familiar fellowship with + God, ver. 4-6. (3.) Fervent desires, with strong cries and + supplications, for the gracious favour, spiritual presence, and saving + direction and protection of God, ver. 7-12. (4.) Strong and + encouraging expectations of help, favour and strength from God, ver. + 10, 13-14.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let my soul enter the very + marrow of these matters. Let God himself be relied on, as my trust, my + Saviour, and my all in all. Let my heart burn with superlative desires + after the knowledge and enjoyment of him. Let nothing less than the + most familiar communion with him here, and the full enjoyment of him + hereafter, satisfy my longings. Let me readily embrace every + invitation to seek his face. Amidst enemies and distresses unnumbered, + let me always believe in, wait for, and boast of God my only Lord. + + - number: 28 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + To thee I'll cry, O LORD, my rock; + hold not thy peace to me; + Lest like those that to pit descend + I by thy silence be. + + The voice hear of my humble pray'rs, + when unto thee I cry; + When to thine holy oracle + I lift mine hands on high. + + With ill men draw me not away + that work iniquity; + That speak peace to their friends, while in + their hearts doth mischief lie. + + Give them according to their deeds + and ills endeavourèd: + And as their handiworks deserve, + to them be renderèd. + + God shall not build, but them destroy, + who would not understand + The LORD's own works, nor did regard + the doing of his hand. + + For ever blessèd be the LORD, + for graciously he heard + The voice of my petïtions, + and prayers did regard. + + The LORD's my strength and shield; my heart + upon him did rely; + And I am helpèd: hence my heart + doth joy exceedingly. + + And with my song I will him praise. + Their strength is GOD alone: + He also is the saving strength + of his anointed one. + + O thine own people do thou save, + bless thine inheritance; + Them also do thou feed, and them + for evermore advance. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Observe here, (1.) David, amidst great distress, earnestly + supplicating deliverance from his God, ver. 1-3. (2.) His implacable + enemies doomed to the just punishment of their sin, ver. 4-5. (3.) + Himself triumphing in God, as the hearer of his prayers, and as his + protector, help and strength, ver. 6-8. (4.) His solemn supplication + for salvation and blessedness; for nourishment, honour, and safety to + the people of God, ver. 9.<br/><br/><br/>While I remember Jesus of + Nazareth whose cries in trouble were so vehement; whose implacable + enemies incur such fearful misery; and who being exalted to the right + hand of God, and made full of joy with his countenance, maketh + continual intercession for his chosen race let my soul lift up her + voice to God, for rich and everlasting blessings to myself and his + church. + + - number: 29 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Give ye unto the LORD, ye sons + that of the mighty be, + All strength and glory to the LORD + with cheerfulness give ye. + + Unto the LORD the glory give + that to his name is due; + And in the beauty of holiness + unto JEHOVAH bow. + + The LORD's voice on the waters is; + the God of majesty + Doth thunder, and on multitudes + of waters sitteth he. + + A pow'rful voice it is that comes + out from the LORD most high; + The voice of that great LORD is full + of glorious majesty. + + The voice of the ETERNAL doth + asunder cedars tear; + Yea, God the LORD doth cedars break + that Lebanon doth bear. + + He makes them like a calf to skip, + ev'n that great Lebanon, + And, like to a young unicorn, + the mountain Sirion. + + God's voice divides the flames of fire; + the desert it doth shake: + The LORD doth make the wilderness + of Kadesh all to quake. + + GOD's voice doth make the hinds to calve, + it makes the forest bare: + And in his temple everyone + his glory doth declare. + + The LORD sits on the floods; the LORD + sits King, and ever shall. + The LORD will give his people strength, + and with peace bless them all. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed on the occasion of a thunderstorm. It + is a solemn charge from heaven, to great men to worship and glorify + God; who (1.) In his magnificence and power thundereth in the most + terrible, alarming, and destructive manner, ver. 1-9. (2.) Who is + supreme Governor of the world, and bestoweth strength and peace on his + peculiar people, ver. 10-11.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me by + faith behold the glory of God in Christ, and be filled with + reverential awe of his power and grace. And while I adore his + perfections, admire and praise his excellencies, let Jerusalem come + into my mind; and let me apprehend the promise, and pour forth a + prayer for the remnant which is left. + + - number: 30 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Fulbert + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + LORD, I will thee extol, for thou + hast lifted me on high, + And over me thou to rejoice + mad'st not mine enemy. + + O thou who art the LORD my God, + I in distress to thee, + With loud cries lifted up my voice, + and thou hast healèd me. + + O LORD, my soul thou hast brought up, + and rescued from the grave; + That I to pit should not go down, + alive thou didst me save. + + O ye that are his holy ones, + sing praise unto the LORD; + And give unto him thanks, when ye + his holiness record. + + For but a moment lasts his wrath; + life in his favour lies: + Weeping may for a night endure, + at morn doth joy arise. + + In my prosperity I said, + that nothing shall me move. + O LORD, thou hast my mountain made + to stand strong by thy love: + + But when that thou, O gracious God, + didst hide thy face from me, + Then quickly was my prosp'rous state + turned into misery. + + Wherefore unto the LORD my cry + I causèd to ascend: + My humble supplicätion + I to the LORD did send. + + What profit is there in my blood, + when I go down to pit? + Shall unto thee the dust give praise? + thy truth declare shall it? + + Hear, LORD, have mercy; help me, LORD: + Thou turnèd hast my sadness + To dancing; yea, my sackcloth loosed, + and girded me with gladness; + + That sing thy praise my glory may, + and never silent be. + O LORD my God, for evermore + I will give thanks to thee. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + In this psalm, composed for the dedication of the new palace which + David had built for himself at Jerusalem, 2 Sam. 5:11, or for the + dedication of it after it had been polluted by Absalom, 2 Sam. 16, he + (1.) Offers thanksgiving to God for the answering of his prayers, the + overthrowing of his enemies, and the preserving of his life, ver. 1-3, + 11-12. (2.) He calls and chargeth others, to praise the Lord, on + account of the purity of his nature, the short duration of his frowns, + and the sweetness of his favours, ver. 4-5. (3.) He remarks, how his + carnal security, under prosperity, had occasioned his sudden fall into + divine hidings and frowns, ver. 6-7. (4.) He recollects what + supplications he had made to God, in his former distress, ver. 8-10. + (5.) He triumphs in the kindness of God towards him; and resolves to + praise and thank him for evermore on account of it, ver. + 11-12.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me with grateful heart remember + the Lord's mercies. Let me remember my own follies; and how the Lord + corrected me for them. Let me look after my prayers, and wait for an + answer. And the nearer my end draweth, let my heart and mouth be the + more abundantly filled with the high praises of my God, and my + Saviour. + + - number: 31 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Stephen + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + In thee, O LORD, I put my trust, + shamed let me never be; + According to thy righteousness + do thou deliver me. + + Bow down thine ear to me, with speed + send me deliverance: + To save me, my strong rock be thou, + and my house of defence. + + Because thou art my rock, and thee + I for my fortress take; + Therefore do thou me lead and guide, + ev'n for thine own name's sake. + + And sith thou art my strength, therefore + pull me out of the net, + Which they in subtlety for me + so privily have set. + + Into thine hands I do commit + my spirit: for thou art he, + O thou, JEHOVAH, God of truth, + that hast redeemèd me. + + Those that do lying vanities + regard, I have abhorred: + But as for me, my confidence + is fixèd on the LORD. + + I'll in thy mercy gladly joy: + for thou my miseries + Considered hast; thou hast my soul + known in adversities: + + And thou hast not inclosèd me + within the en'my's hand; + And by thee have my feet been made + in a large room to stand. + + O LORD, upon me mercy have, + for trouble is on me: + Mine eye, my belly, and my soul, + with grief consumèd be. + + Because my life with grief is spent, + my years with sighs and groans: + My strength doth fail; and for my sin + consumèd are my bones. + + I was a scorn to all my foes, + and to my friends a fear; + And specially reproached of those + that were my neighbours near: + + When they me saw they from me fled. + Ev'n so I am forgot, + As men are out of mind when dead: + I'm like a broken pot. + + For slanders I of many heard; + fear compassed me, while they + Against me did consult, and plot + to take my life away. + + But as for me, O LORD, my trust + upon thee I did lay; + And I to thee, Thou art my God, + did confidently say. + + My times are wholly in thine hand: + do thou deliver me + From their hands that mine enemies + and persecutors be. + + Thy countenance to shine do thou + upon thy servant make: + Unto me give salvätion, + for thy great mercies' sake. + + Let me not be ashamed, O LORD, + for on thee called I have: + Let wicked men be shamed, let them + be silent in the grave. + + To silence put the lying lips, + that grievous things do say, + And hard reports, in pride and scorn, + on righteous men do lay. + + How great's the goodness thou for them + that fear thee keep'st in store, + And wrought'st for them that trust in thee + the sons of men before! + + In secret of thy presence thou + shalt hide them from man's pride: + From strife of tongues thou closely shalt, + as in a tent, them hide. + + All praise and thanks be to the LORD; + for he hath magnified + His wondrous love to me within + a city fortified. + + For from thine eyes cut off I am, + I in my haste had said; + My voice yet heard'st thou, when to thee + with cries my moan I made. + + O love the LORD, all ye his saints; + because the LORD doth guard + The faithful, and he plenteously + proud doers doth reward. + + Be of good courage, and he strength + unto your heart shall send, + All ye whose hope and confidence + doth on the LORD depend. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Observe here, (1.) David's solemn professions of his dependence upon + God, and his prayers for support and deliverance, ver. 1-8. (2.) His + sad complaints of inward grief, bodily weakness, unkindness of + friends, unjust censures of enemies, and horror of death; attended + with a solemn commitment of himself to God's mercy and care, and + earnest supplication for deliverance from enemies, ver. 9-18. (3.) + Amidst admiration of God's kindness to his people, and thanksgiving + for favours to himself, he encourageth himself and others firmly to + trust in God, ver. 19-24.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me be deeply + affected with my sores, my maladies, and troubles; and cast all my + burdens on the Lord. In the assured faith that he is God, even my God, + let me admire his gracious thoughts, words, and deeds to me-ward; and + commit myself wholly to his care and protection. + + - number: 32 + suggested_tunes: + - Bedford + - St. Peter + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O blessèd is the man to whom + is freely pardonèd + All the transgression he hath done, + whose sin is coverèd. + + Blessed is the man to whom the LORD + imputeth not his sin, + And in whose spirit there is no guile, + nor fraud is found therein. + + When as I did refrain my speech, + and silent was my tongue, + My bones then waxèd old, because + I roarèd all day long. + + For upon me both day and night + thine hand did heavy lie, + So that my moisture turnèd is + in summer's drought thereby. + + I thereupon have unto thee + my sin acknowledgèd, + And likewise mine iniquity + I have not coverèd: + + I will confess unto the LORD + my trespasses, said I; + And of my sin thou freely didst + forgive th' iniquity. + + For this shall ev'ry godly one + his prayer make to thee; + In such a time he shall thee seek, + as found thou mayest be. + + Surely, when floods of waters great + do swell up to the brim, + They shall not overwhelm his soul, + nor once come near to him. + + Thou art my hiding-place, thou shalt + from trouble keep me free; + Thou with songs of deliverance + about shalt compass me. + + I will instruct thee, and thee teach + the way that thou shalt go; + And, with mine eye upon thee set, + I will direction show. + + Then be not like the horse or mule, + which do not understand; + Whose mouth, lest they come near to thee, + a bridle must command. + + Unto the man that wicked is + his sorrows shall abound; + But him that trusteth in the LORD + mercy shall compass round. + + Ye righteous, in the LORD be glad, + in him do ye rejoice: + All ye that upright are in heart, + for joy lift up your voice. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Perhaps this psalm was composed for the great day of the national + atonement, on the tenth day of the seventh month, Lev. 16. In it + observe, (1.) The exceeding riches of the grace of God, manifested in + blessing men with forgiveness of sin, and with protection amidst + dangers, and direction in duty, ver. 1-2, 7-8. (2.) The indispensable + duty of them who desire new-covenant blessings; viz. to acknowledge + their offences to God; to implore his favour, which they need; to walk + humbly and circumspectly before him, and to rejoice in him as God and + their God, ver. 3-6, 9-11.<br/><br/><br/>While I am truly conscious of + my sinfulness, and deeply affected therewith, let the faith and + experience of Jesus' full pardon of my sins, and of the communications + of his grace, melt my heart, and animate me to every commanded duty. + + - number: 33 + suggested_tunes: + - Irish + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Ye righteous, in the LORD rejoice; + it comely is and right, + That upright men, with thankful voice, + should praise the Lord of might. + + Praise GOD with harp, and unto him + sing with the psaltery; + Upon a ten-stringed instrument + make ye sweet melody. + + A new song to him sing, and play + with loud noise skilfully; + For right is GOD's word, all his works + are done in verity. + + To judgment and to righteousness + a love he beareth still; + The loving-kindness of the LORD + the earth throughout doth fill. + + The heavens by the word of GOD + did their beginning take; + And by the breathing of his mouth + he all their hosts did make. + + The waters of the seas he brings + together as an heap; + And in storehouses, as it were, + he layeth up the deep. + + Let earth, and all that live therein, + with rev'rence fear the LORD; + Let all the world's inhabitants + dread him with one accord. + + For he did speak the word, and done + it was without delay; + Establishèd it firmly stood, + whatever he did say. + + GOD doth the counsel bring to nought + which heathen folk do take; + And what the people do devise + of none effect doth make. + + O but the counsel of the LORD + doth stand for ever sure; + And of his heart the purposes + from age to age endure. + + That nation blessèd is, whose God + JEHOVAH is, and those + A blessèd people are, whom for + his heritage he chose. + + The LORD from heav'n sees and beholds + all sons of men full well: + He views all from his dwelling-place + that in the earth do dwell. + + He forms their hearts alike, and all + their doings he observes. + Great hosts save not a king, much strength + no mighty man preserves. + + An horse for preservätion + is a deceitful thing; + And by the greatness of his strength + can no deliv'rance bring. + + Behold, on those that do him fear + the LORD doth set his eye; + Ev'n those who on his mercy do + with confidence rely. + + From death to free their soul, in dearth + life unto them to yield. + Our soul doth wait upon the LORD; + he is our help and shield. + + Sith in his holy name we trust, + our heart shall joyful be. + LORD, let thy mercy be on us, + as we do hope in thee. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Contains a sweet but solemn summons to praise the Lord, (1.) For his + justice, goodness, and truth, manifested in his word and works, ver. + 1-5. (2.) For his power, manifested in the works of creation, and in + his sovereign dominion over the world, ver. 6-11, 13-17. (3.) For his + special and new-covenant relations, and merciful kindness towards his + chosen people, ver. 12, 18-22.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me + observe, let me admire, and be deeply affected with the blessings of + creation, providence, and redemption. And chiefly let me remember, let + me behold, let me glow with ardent desire after him, whose bones the + Lord so kept, that not one of them was broken. + + - number: 34 + suggested_tunes: + - Harrington + - Jackson + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + GOD will I bless all times; his praise + my mouth shall still express. + My soul shall boast in GOD: the meek + shall hear with joyfulness. + + Extol the LORD with me, let us + exalt his name together. + I sought the LORD, he heard, and did + me from all fears deliver. + + They looked to him, and lightened were: + not shamèd were their faces. + This poor man cried, GOD heard, and saved + him from all his distresses. + + The angel of the LORD encamps, + and round encompasseth + All those about that do him fear, + and them delivereth. + + O taste and see that GOD is good: + who trusts in him is blessed. + Fear GOD his saints: none that him fear + shall be with want oppressed. + + The lions young may hungry be, + and they may lack their food: + But they that truly seek the LORD + shall not lack any good. + + O children, hither do ye come, + and unto me give ear; + I shall you teach to understand + how ye the LORD should fear. + + What man is he that life desires, + to see good would live long? + Thy lips refrain from speaking guile, + and from ill words thy tongue. + + Depart from ill, do good, seek peace, + pursue it earnestly. + GOD's eyes are on the just; his ears + are open to their cry. + + The face of GOD is set against + those that do wickedly, + That he may quite out from the earth + cut off their memory. + + The righteous cry unto the LORD, + he unto them gives ear; + And they out of their troubles all + by him delivered are. + + The LORD is ever nigh to them + that be of broken spirit; + To them he safety doth afford + that are in heart contrite. + + The troubles that afflict the just + in number many be; + But yet at length out of them all + the LORD doth set him free. + + He carefully his bones doth keep, + whatever can befall; + That not so much as one of them + can broken be at all. + + Ill shall the wicked slay; laid waste + shall be who hate the just. + The LORD redeems his servants' souls; + none perish that him trust. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was composed by David, when Achish, or Abimelech, king of + Gath, drove him from his court as an idiot or madman, 1 Sam. 21:10-15. + Here are, (1.) David's high praises to God, for the favours himself + and others had received, ver. 1-6. (2.) His warm invitations and + strong encouragements to others to seek after and fear the Lord, and + to trust in him for all necessary supplies, in time, or in eternity, + ver. 7-10. (3.) Familiar advice to children and others to eschew every + thing sinful, and make conscience of known duty, both towards God and + man, as a means of present and future happiness, ver. 11-14. (4.) A + representation of the misery of the wicked, in having God against them + as an avenging enemy, and in having ruin before them as the just + reward of their sins; and of the happiness of the godly, in having God + near to them in every case, ready to hear their requests, to protect + them amidst dangers, and to deliver them from enemies and trouble, + ver. 15-22.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let my heart be warmed with my + subject. Come my soul, and walk in this light, in these joys of the + Lord: Come, taste and see that he is good; extol his kindness, and + trust him in all things, and on every occasion. + + - number: 35 + suggested_tunes: + - Evan + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Plead, LORD, with those that plead; and fight + with those that fight with me. + Of shield and buckler take thou hold, + stand up mine help to be. + + Draw also out the spear, and do + against them stop the way + That me pursue: unto my soul, + I'm thy salvation, say. + + Let them confounded be and shamed + that for my soul have sought: + Who plot my hurt turned back be they, + and to confusion brought. + + Let them be like unto the chaff + that flies before the wind; + And let the angel of the LORD + pursue them hard behind. + + With darkness cover thou their way, + and let it slipp'ry prove; + And let the angel of the LORD + pursue them from above. + + For without cause have they for me + their net hid in a pit, + They also have without a cause + for my soul diggèd it. + + Let ruin seize him unawares; + his net he hid withal + Himself let catch; and in the same + destruction let him fall. + + My soul in GOD shall joy; and glad + in his salvation be: + And all my bones shall say, O LORD, + who is like unto thee, + + Which dost the poor set free from him + that is for him too strong; + The poor and needy from the man + that spoils and does him wrong? + + False witnesses rose; to my charge + things I not knew they laid. + They, to the spoiling of my soul, + me ill for good repaid. + + But as for me, when they were sick, + in sackcloth sad I mourned: + My humbled soul did fast, my prayer + into my bosom turned. + + Myself I did behave as he + had been my friend or brother; + I heavily bowed down, as one + that mourneth for his mother. + + But in my trouble they rejoiced, + gath'ring themselves together; + Yea, abjects vile together did + themselves against me gather: + + I knew it not; they did me tear, + and quiet would not be. + With mocking hypocrites, at feasts + they gnashed their teeth at me. + + How long, Lord, look'st thou on? from those + destructions they intend + Rescue my soul, from lions young + my darling do defend. + + I will give thanks to thee, O Lord, + within th' assembly great; + And where much people gathered are + thy praises forth will set. + + Let not my wrongful enemies + proudly rejoice o'er me; + Nor who me hate without a cause, + let them wink with the eye. + + For peace they do not speak at all; + but crafty plots prepare + Against all those within the land + that meek and quiet are. + + With mouths set wide, they 'gainst me said, + Ha, ha! our eye doth see. + LORD, thou hast seen, hold not thy peace; + Lord, be not far from me. + + Stir up thyself; wake, that thou may'st + judgment to me afford, + Ev'n to my cause, O thou that art + my only God and Lord. + + O LORD my God, do thou me judge + after thy righteousness; + And let them not their joy 'gainst me + triumphantly express: + + Nor let them say within their hearts, + Ah, we would have it thus; + Nor suffer them to say, that he + is swallowed up by us. + + Shamed and confounded be they all + that at my hurt are glad; + Let those against me that do boast + with shame and scorn be clad. + + Let them that love my righteous cause + be glad, shout, and not cease + To say, The LORD be magnified, + who loves his servant's peace. + + Thy righteousness shall also be + declarèd by my tongue; + The praises that belong to thee + speak shall it all day long. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + In this psalm, (1.) David, as a type of Christ, complains of the + cruelty of his enemies, in striving with him, in persecuting him, in + seeking his ruin, and in reproaching, contemning, deriding, and + triumphing over him, ver. 1, 3-4, 7, 11, 15-16, 20-21, 25-26. (2.) He + pleads his own innocency, that he had never given them any + provocation; but, amidst their abuse of him, had earnestly and + affectionately studied to promote their welfare, ver. 7, 9, 12-14. + (3.) He supplicates that God would espouse his cause, protect, + deliver, and comfort his soul, defeat the designs, and disappoint the + expectations of his enemies; and that he would countenance and + encourage his friends, ver. 1-2, 4, 17, 22-27. (4.) He predicts the + destruction of his enemies, and the abounding of his own comfort; and + in the views hereof, resolves to thank and praise the Lord, ver. 4-10, + 18, 28.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me, with grief and shame, call + to mind the infernal opposition, I and others have made to our all + -compassionate Redeemer. Let me beware of exposing myself to that + vengeance, which is laid up in store for his incorrigible enemies. Let + me never avenge myself on my injurious neighbours: But amidst all + attacks from hell or earth, or from my own corrupt heart, let me + commit all my concerns to him who judgeth righteously, that he may + bring them to pass. + + - number: 36 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + The wicked man's transgrëssion + within my heart thus says, + Undoubtedly the fear of God + is not before his eyes. + + Because himself he flattereth + in his own blinded eye, + Until the hatefulness be found + of his iniquity. + + Words from his mouth proceeding are, + fraud and iniquity: + He to be wise, and to do good, + hath left off utterly. + + He mischief, lying on his bed, + most cunningly doth plot: + He sets himself in ways not good, + ill he abhorreth not. + + Thy mercy, LORD, is in the heav'ns; + thy truth doth reach the clouds: + Thy justice is like mountains great; + thy judgments deep as floods: + + LORD, thou preservest man and beast. + How precious is thy grace! + Therefore in shadow of thy wings + men's sons their trust shall place. + + They with the fatness of thy house + shall be well satisfied; + From rivers of thy pleasures thou + wilt drink to them provide. + + Because of life the fountain pure + remains alone with thee; + And in that purest light of thine + we clearly light shall see. + + Thy loving-kindness unto them + continue that thee know; + And still on men upright in heart + thy righteousness bestow. + + Let not the foot of cruel pride + come, and against me stand; + And let me not removèd be, + Lord, by the wicked's hand. + + There fall'n are they, and ruinèd, + that work iniquities: + Cast down they are, and never shall + be able to arise. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Observe here, (1.) How great is the wickedness of men! They naturally + contemn God, flatter themselves in sin, and abandon themselves to + falsehood and mischief, ver. 1, 4. (2.) How great is the excellency of + God, in truth, in righteousness, and in mercy! And what a fountain of + preservation, support, comfort, light, and life, he is to his people! + ver 5-9. (3.) How, from the excellency and goodness of God, the + psalmist draws encouragement, to pray for himself and other saints, + and to triumph in the view of his enemies' ruin, ver. + 10-12.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me review my natural + abominations and wretchedness, and try, whether the Lord hath made me + a new creature, created in Christ Jesus unto good works; and whether + he hath made me taste of, admire, and trust in the exceeding riches of + his grace. + + - number: 37 + suggested_tunes: + - St. James + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + For evildoers fret thou not + thyself unquietly; + Nor do thou envy bear to those + that work iniquity. + + For, even like unto the grass, + soon be cut down shall they; + And, like the green and tender herb, + they wither shall away. + + Set thou thy trust upon the LORD, + and be thou doing good; + And so thou in the land shalt dwell, + and verily have food. + + Delight thyself in GOD; he'll give + thine heart's desire to thee. + Thy way to GOD commit, him trust, + it bring to pass shall he. + + And, like unto the light, he shall + thy righteousness display; + And he thy judgment shall bring forth + like noon-tide of the day. + + Rest in the LORD, and patiently + wait for him: do not fret + For him who, prosp'ring in his way, + success in sin doth get. + + Do thou from anger cease, and wrath + see thou forsake also: + Fret not thyself in any wise, + that evil thou should'st do. + + For those that evildoers are + shall be cut off and fall: + But those that wait upon the LORD + the earth inherit shall. + + For yet a little while, and then + the wicked shall not be; + His place thou shalt consider well, + but it thou shalt not see. + + But by inheritance the earth + the meek ones shall possess: + They also shall delight themselves + in an abundant peace. + + The wicked plots against the just, + and at him whets his teeth: + The Lord shall laugh at him, because + his day he coming seeth. + + The wicked have drawn out the sword, + and bent their bow, to slay + The poor and needy, and to kill + men of an upright way. + + But their own sword, which they have drawn, + shall enter their own heart: + Their bows which they have bent shall break, + and into pieces part. + + A little that a just man hath + is more and better far + Than is the wealth of many such + as lewd and wicked are. + + For sinners' arms shall broken be; + but GOD the just sustains. + GOD knows the just man's days, and still + their heritage remains. + + They shall not be ashamed when they + the evil time do see; + And when the days of famine are, + they satisfied shall be. + + But wicked men, and foes of GOD, + as fat of lambs, decay; + They shall consume, yea, into smoke + they shall consume away. + + The wicked borrows, but the same + again he doth not pay; + Whereas the righteous mercy shows, + and gives his own away. + + For such as blessèd be of him + the earth inherit shall; + And they that cursèd are of him + shall be destroyèd all. + + A good man's footsteps by the LORD + are orderèd aright; + And in the way wherein he walks + he greatly doth delight. + + Although he fall, yet shall he not + be cast down utterly, + Because the LORD with his own hand + upholds him mightily. + + I have been young, and now am old, + yet have I never seen + The just man left, nor that his seed + for bread have beggars been. + + He's ever merciful, and lends: + his seed is blessed therefore. + Depart from evil, and do good, + and dwell for evermore. + + For GOD loves judgment, and his saints + leaves not in any case; + They are kept ever; but cut off + shall be the sinner's face. + + The just inherit shall the land, + and ever in it dwell: + The just man's mouth doth wisdom speak; + his tongue doth judgment tell. + + In 's heart the law is of his God, + his steps slide not away. + The wicked man doth watch the just, + and seeketh him to slay. + + Yet him the LORD will not forsake, + nor leave him in his hands: + The righteous will he not condemn, + when he in judgment stands. + + Wait on the LORD, and keep his way, + and thee exalt shall he + Th' earth to inherit; when cut off + the wicked thou shalt see. + + I saw the wicked great in power, + spread like a green bay-tree: + He passed, yea, was not; him I sought, + but found he could not be. + + Mark thou the perfect, and behold + the man of uprightness, + Because that surely of this man + the latter end is peace. + + But those men that transgressors are + shall be destroyed together; + The latter end of wicked men + shall be cut off for ever. + + But the salvation of the just + is from the LORD above; + He in the time of their distress + their stay and strength doth prove. + + The LORD shall help, and them deliver: + he shall them free and save + From wicked men, because in him + their confidence they have. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is wholly of the instructive kind. As the Mosaic system, + and the covenant between God and Israel, as his peculiar people, + promised remarkable temporal felicity to such as were obedient to the + law, and denounced temporal miseries against those that were impious + and profane; so the psalmist here cautions against stumbling at + particular providences, which might appear contrary to the tenour of + that covenant. Here are, (1.) Plain and express warnings against + fretfulness at the prosperity of the wicked, in their wickedness, ver. + 1, 7-8; with the arguments and reasons enforcing the same, viz. that + the character of the wicked is ignominious, while that of the + righteous is honourable, ver. 12, 14, 21, 26, 30-32; that the wicked, + in the very height of their prosperity, are near to destruction, while + the righteous, even in their adversity, have special protection from + God, and shall never be ruined, ver. 2, 9-10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 28, + 33-40; and that God hath special blessings in store for, and even in + this life manifests distinguished kindness to, the righteous and their + seed, ver. 11, 16, 18-19, 22-25, 28-29, 37. (2.) Here are proper and + effectual remedies to prevent sinful fretting at the prosperity of the + wicked, or troubles of the godly, viz. hoping in God as our Saviour; + delighting in God as our companion, friend and portion; following him + as our guide; departing from evil and doing good; waiting on the Lord, + and keeping his way, ver. 3-6, 27, 34.<br/><br/><br/>Be thou, my soul, + an accurate observer, of the matter and circumstances of every + providence. Carefully compare them one with another; and all with + perfections, covenant, and promises of God; in order that thou mayest + never be offended thereat. + + - number: 38 + suggested_tunes: + - Dundee + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + In thy great indignätion, + O LORD, rebuke me not; + Nor on me lay thy chast'ning hand, + in thy displeasure hot. + + For in me fast thine arrows stick, + thine hand doth press me sore: + And in my flesh there is no health, + nor soundness any more. + + This grief I have, because thy wrath + is forth against me gone; + And in my bones there is no rest, + for sin that I have done. + + Because gone up above mine head + my great transgressions be; + And, as a weighty burden, they + too heavy are for me. + + My wounds do stink, and are corrupt; + my folly makes it so. + I troubled am, and much bowed down; + all day I mourning go. + + For a disease that loathsome is + so fills my loins with pain, + That in my weak and weary flesh + no soundness doth remain. + + So feeble and infirm am I, + and broken am so sore, + That, through disquiet of my heart, + I have been made to roar. + + O Lord, all that I do desire + is still before thine eye; + And of my heart the secret groans + not hidden are from thee. + + My heart doth pant incessantly, + my strength doth quite decay; + As for mine eyes, their wonted light + is from me gone away. + + My lovers and my friends do stand + at distance from my sore; + And those do stand aloof that were + kinsmen and kind before. + + Yea, they that seek my life lay snares: + who seek to do me wrong + Speak things mischievous, and deceits + imagine all day long. + + But, as one deaf, that heareth not, + I suffered all to pass; + I as a dumb man did become, + whose mouth not opened was: + + As one that hears not, in whose mouth + are no reproofs at all. + For, LORD, I hope in thee; my God, + thou'lt hear me when I call. + + For I said, Hear me, lest they should + rejoice o'er me with pride; + And o'er me magnify themselves, + when as my foot doth slide. + + For I am near to halt, my grief + is still before mine eye: + For I'll declare my sin, and grieve + for mine iniquity. + + But yet mine en'mies lively are, + and strong are they beside; + And they that hate me wrongfully + are greatly multiplied. + + And they for good that render ill, + as en'mies me withstood; + Yea, ev'n for this, because that I + do follow what is good. + + Forsake me not, O LORD; my God, + far from me never be. + O Lord, thou my salvation art, + haste to give help to me. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm appears to have been penned by David, under some remarkable + distress, attended with a deep sense of sin as the procuring cause of + it. Here are, (1.) David's sorrowful complaints of God's sore + displeasure, and of the weight of his own sins, ver. 1-5; of the + sickness of his body, and distress of his mind, ver. 6-10; of the + unkindness of his friends, ver. 11; and of the unprovoked injuries he + received from his enemies, who were spiteful, cruel, subtile, unjust, + ungrateful, impious, devilish, numerous and powerful, ver. 12, 20. + (2.) His remarkable patience and resignation under his troubles, ver. + 13-15. (3.) His fervent supplications to God for the mitigation of his + troubles, ver. 1; and for comfort and support under, and speedy + deliverance from them, ver. 16, 21-22; attended with candid and + ingenuous acknowledgment of the sinful causes thereof, ver. 3-5, + 18.<br/><br/><br/>In all my troubles, let me search out, and by faith + confess and mourn over the sinful causes of them. Let me take every + distress as out of God's hand; and call on him in the time thereof, + that he may deliver me. + + - number: 39 + suggested_tunes: + - Ballerma + - St. Mary + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + I said, I will look to my ways, + lest with my tongue I sin: + In sight of wicked men my mouth + with bridle I'll keep in. + + With silence I as dumb became, + I did myself restrain + From speaking good; but then the more + increasèd was my pain. + + My heart within me waxèd hot; + and, while I musing was, + The fire did burn; and from my tongue + these words I did let pass: + + Mine end, and measure of my days, + O LORD, unto me show + What is the same; that I thereby + my frailty well may know. + + Lo, thou my days an handbreadth mad'st; + mine age is in thine eye + As nothing: sure each man at best + is wholly vanity. + + Sure each man walks in a vain show; + they vex themselves in vain: + He heaps up wealth, and doth not know + to whom it shall pertain. + + And now, O Lord, what wait I for? + my hope is fixed on thee. + Free me from all my trespasses, + the fool's scorn make not me. + + Dumb was I, op'ning not my mouth, + because this work was thine. + Thy stroke take from me; by the blow + of thine hand I do pine. + + When with rebukes thou dost correct + man for iniquity, + Thou wastes his beauty like a moth: + sure each man's vanity. + + Attend my cry, LORD, at my tears + and pray'rs not silent be: + I sojourn as my fathers all, + and stranger am with thee. + + O spare thou me, that I my strength + recover may again, + Before from hence I do depart, + and here no more remain. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Here we have, (1.) Violent struggling in the psalmist's own breast + between grace and corruption; between passion and patience, ver. 1-3, + 11. (2.) Serious views of human frailty, shortness of life, and self- + emptiness, ver. 4-6. (3.) Strong cries to God, for pardon of sin, + preservation from reproach, and for removal of trouble; for hearing + and answering of prayer, and for lengthening out of life, till further + preparation for death should be attained, ver. + 7-13.<br/><br/><br>While I sing, let my soul blush deep, for the + untenderness and want of circumspection, in my life, and for my want + of resignation to God's disposing will. Let me be suitably affected + with the shortness, vanity, and uncertainty of my temporal life. Let + me be always exercised in earnest prayer to, and believing dependence + on God, as my companion and friend. + + - number: 40 + suggested_tunes: + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + I waited for the LORD my God, + and patiently did bear; + At length to me he did incline + my voice and cry to hear. + + He took me from a fearful pit, + and from the miry clay, + And on a rock he set my feet, + establishing my way. + + He put a new song in my mouth, + our God to magnify: + Many shall see it, and shall fear, + and on the LORD rely. + + O blessèd is the man whose trust + upon the LORD relies; + Respecting not the proud, nor such + as turn aside to lies. + + O LORD my God, full many are + the wonders thou hast done; + Thy gracious thoughts to us-ward far + above all thoughts are gone: + + In order none can reckon them + to thee: if them declare, + And speak of them I would, they more + than can be numbered are. + + No sacrifice nor offering + didst thou at all desire; + Mine ears thou bored: sin-off'ring thou + and burnt didst not require: + + Then to the Lord these were my words, + I come, behold and see; + Within the volume of the book + it written is of me: + + To do thy will I take delight, + O thou my God that art; + Yea, that most holy law of thine + I have within my heart. + + Within the congregation great + I righteousness did preach: + Lo, thou dost know, O LORD, that I + refrainèd not my speech. + + I never did within my heart + conceal thy righteousness; + I thy salvation have declared, + and shown thy faithfulness: + + Thy kindness, which most loving is, + concealèd have not I, + Nor from the congregation great + have hid thy verity. + + Thy tender mercies, LORD, from me + O do thou not restrain; + Thy loving-kindness, and thy truth, + let them me still maintain. + + For ills past reck'ning compass me, + and mine iniquities + Such hold upon me taken have, + I cannot lift mine eyes: + + They more than hairs are on mine head, + thence is my heart dismayed. + Be pleasèd, LORD, to rescue me; + LORD, hasten to mine aid. + + Shamed and confounded be they all + that seek my soul to kill; + Yea, let them backward driven be, + and shamed, that wish me ill. + + For a reward of this their shame + confounded let them be, + That in this manner scoffing say, + Aha, aha! to me. + + In thee let all be glad, and joy, + who seeking thee abide; + Who thy salvation love, say still, + The LORD be magnified. + + I'm poor and needy, yet the Lord + of me a care doth take: + Thou art my help and säviour, + my God, no tarrying make. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Here we have, (1.) David's hearty acknowledgments of God's kindness, + in bringing him out of long and sore afflictions, ver. 1-5. (2.) His + preferring of holy obedience to God, and faithful publication of his + truths and praises, to all ceremonial oblations, ver. 6-11. (3.) His + improvement of his former deliverance, as an encouragement to + supplicate further mercy and protection; an encouragement to confess + sin, and implore the pardon thereof; an encouragement to rejoice in, + and praise God for his excellencies and favours; to trust him under + affliction, and to comfort himself in him, as his help and Saviour, + amidst poverty, sinfulness, and trouble, ver. 12-17.<br/><br/><br/>But + let me here chiefly think, (1.) Of Jesus the great Shepherd of the + sheep, who was brought again from his agonies and death, by the blood + of the everlasting covenant, and set down at the right hand of the + Majesty on high, that he might receive gifts for men, and that our + faith and hope might be in God, ver. 1-5. (2.) Let me think of the new + covenant, made between him and his eternal Father, for the redemption + of sinful men; and of his complete fulfilment of the divine law as the + condition thereof, ver. 6-10. (3.) Let me think how our iniquities + were charged to his account, and punished on him, as our Surety, ver. + 11-13. (4.) Let me think how the unrelenting vengeance of Almighty + God, overtook his Jewish betrayers and murderers; and hath, or will + overtake his Heathenish, Antichristian, or other implacable enemies; + and of the joy and consolation, which flow from and through him to his + chosen friends, ver. 14-17. + + - number: 41 + suggested_tunes: + - Belmont + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Blessèd is he that wisely doth + the poor man's case consider; + For when the time of trouble is, + the LORD will him deliver. + + GOD will him keep, yea, save alive; + on earth he blessed shall live; + And to his enemies' desire + thou wilt him not up give. + + GOD will give strength when he on bed + of languishing doth mourn; + And in his sickness sore, O LORD, + thou all his bed wilt turn. + + I said, O LORD, do thou extend + thy mercy unto me; + O do thou heal my soul; for why? + I have offended thee. + + Those that to me are enemies, + of me do evil say, + When shall he die, that so his name + may perish quite away? + + To see me if he comes, he speaks + vain words: but then his heart + Heaps mischief to it, which he tells, + when forth he doth depart. + + My haters jointly whispering, + 'gainst me my hurt devise. + Mischief, say they, cleaves fast to him; + he lieth, and shall not rise. + + Yea, ev'n mine own familiar friend, + on whom I did rely, + Who ate my bread, ev'n he his heel + against me lifted high. + + But, LORD, be merciful to me, + and up again me raise, + That I may justly them requite + according to their ways. + + By this I know that certainly + I favoured am by thee; + Because my hateful enemy + triumphs not over me. + + But as for me, thou me uphold'st + in mine integrity; + And me before thy countenance + thou sett'st continually. + + The LORD, the God of Israel, + be blessed for ever then, + From age to age eternally. + Amen, yea, and amen. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm contains, (1.) A representation of the blessedness of him + who wisely considereth the case of the poor, and affords them relief, + ver. 1-3. (2.) David's candid acknowledgments of the justness of his + affliction, and earnest supplications for a merciful deliverance, ver. + 4. (3.) His sad complaints of the malicious, censorious, and spiteful + reflections, and of the insolent carriage of his enemies, ver. 5-9. + (4.) His hearty committing of his case and way to God, in the assured + and triumphant faith of his favour, ver. 10-13.<br/><br/><br/>While I + sing, let mine eyes be toward the Lord Jesus, who thought on me in my + low estate. Let me consider him, who, though he was rich, yet for our + sakes became poor, that we through his poverty might be made rich + Jesus, who had not where to lay his head; Jesus whom his own disciple + betrayed; and who through manifold enemies and much tribulation, + entered into the kingdom of God! + + - number: 42 + suggested_tunes: + - Wetherby + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Like as the hart for water-brooks + in thirst doth pant and bray; + So pants my longing soul, O God, + that come to thee I may. + + My soul for God, the living God, + doth thirst: when shall I near + Unto thy countenance approach, + and in God's sight appear? + + My tears have unto me been meat, + both in the night and day, + While unto me continually, + Where is thy God? they say. + + My soul is pourèd out in me, + when this I think upon; + Because that with the multitude + I heretofore had gone: + + With them into God's house I went, + with voice of joy and praise; + Yea, with the multitude that kept + the solemn holy days. + + O why art thou cast down, my soul? + why in me so dismayed? + Trust God, for I shall praise him yet, + his count'nance is mine aid. + + My God, my soul's cast down in me; + thee therefore mind I will + From Jordan's land, the Hermonites, + and ev'n from Mizar hill. + + At the noise of thy water-spouts + deep unto deep doth call; + Thy breaking waves pass over me, + yea, and thy billows all. + + His loving-kindness yet the LORD + command will in the day, + His song's with me by night; to God, + by whom I live, I'll pray: + + And I will say to God my rock, + Why me forgett'st thou so? + Why, for my foes' opprëssion, + thus mourning do I go? + + 'Tis as a sword within my bones, + when my foes me upbraid; + Ev'n when by them, Where is thy God? + 'tis daily to me said. + + O why art thou cast down, my soul? + why, thus with grief oppressed, + Art thou disquieted in me? + in God still hope and rest: + + For yet I know I shall him praise, + who graciously to me + The health is of my countenance, + yea, mine own God is he. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Perhaps this psalm was composed by David, when the unnatural rebellion + of Absalom had forced him from the sanctuary of God, and to take up + his lodging eastward of Jordan, 2 Sam. 15:13-19. We have in it, (1.) + Ardent longings after nearness to, and familiar intimacy with God, in + his public ordinances and sanctuary, ver. 1-2. (2.) Mournful + lamentations and bitter groanings on account of God's withdrawing his + comfortable smiles; of the want of the once-enjoyed ordinances of God, + and fellowship with his saints; of the depressing impressions of God's + wrath; and of his enemies' insolent upbraiding of him on account of + the departure and distance of his God, ver. 3-4, 6-7, 9-10. (3.) + Believing remembrance of God's former favours, ver. 6; and self- + encouraging hopes of future ones, ver. 5, 8, 11.<br/><br/><br/>Have I + experimentally understood all these things? My soul, let me charge + thee to beware of dissimulation with God, and of compassing him about + with lies, under pretence of praising him. Dare not to sing these + lines without inward, without ardent longings for the Lord; without + earnest claiming of him as thy own God, upon the foundation of his + new-covenant grant of himself to me in the gospel; without assured + hopes of his future, his everlasting kindness to me-ward. + + - number: 43 + suggested_tunes: + - Belmont + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Judge me, O God, and plead my cause + against th' ungodly nation; + From the unjust and crafty man, + O be thou my salvation. + + For thou the God art of my strength; + why thrusts thou me thee fro'? + For th' enemy's opprëssion + why do I mourning go? + + O send thy light forth and thy truth; + let them be guides to me, + And bring me to thine holy hill, + ev'n where thy dwellings be. + + Then will I to God's altar go, + to God my chiefest joy: + Yea, God, my God, thy name to praise + my harp I will employ. + + Why art thou then cast down, my soul? + what should discourage thee? + And why with vexing thoughts art thou + disquieted in me? + + Still trust in God; for him to praise + good cause I yet shall have: + He of my count'nance is the health, + my God that doth me save. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed on the same occasion as the former; + and contains, (1.) David's strong cries to his God, for help against, + and deliverance from, his ungodly, unjust, and crafty oppressors, ver. + 1-2. (2.) His earnest longings to be restored to the enjoyment of his + God in his public ordinances, ver. 3-4. (3.) His inward disquiets + composed by believing claims, of God as his God, and firm dependence + on his promises, ver. 5.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let my soul be + deeply affected with the injuries I daily receive from Satan and my + own lusts. Let my heart and flesh cry out for God, the living God, as + my God, and mine exceeding joy. And let me still all the tumults of my + heart with this That he is my God and my all; my God that doth me + save. + + - number: 44 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O God, we with our ears have heard, + our fathers have us told, + What works thou in their days hadst done, + ev'n in the days of old. + + Thy hand did drive the heathen out, + and plant them in their place; + Thou didst afflict the nätions, + but them thou didst increase. + + For neither got their sword the land, + nor did their arm them save; + But thy right hand, arm, countenance; + for thou them favour gave. + + Thou art my King: for Jacob, Lord, + deliv'rances command. + Through thee we shall push down our foes, + that do against us stand: + + We, through thy name, shall tread down those + that ris'n against us have. + For in my bow I shall not trust, + nor shall my sword me save. + + But from our foes thou hast us saved, + our haters put to shame. + In God we all the day do boast, + and ever praise thy name. + + But now we are cast off by thee, + and us thou putt'st to shame; + And when our armies do go forth, + thou goest not with the same. + + Thou mak'st us from the enemy, + faint-hearted, to turn back; + And they who hate us for themselves + our spoils away do take. + + Like sheep for meat thou gavest us; + 'mong heathen cast we be. + Thou didst for nought thy people sell; + their price enriched not thee. + + Thou mak'st us a reproach to be + unto our neighbours near; + Derision and a scorn to them + that round about us are. + + A by-word also thou dost us + among the heathen make; + The people, in contempt and spite, + at us their heads do shake. + + Before me my confüsion + continually abides; + And of my bashful countenance + the shame me ever hides: + + For voice of him that doth reproach, + and speaketh blasphemy; + By reason of th' avenging foe, + and cruel enemy. + + All this is come on us, yet we + have not forgotten thee; + Nor falsely in thy covenant + behaved ourselves have we. + + Back from thy way our heart not turned; + our steps no straying made; + Though us thou brak'st in dragons' place, + and cover'dst with death's shade. + + If we God's name forgot, or stretched + to a strange god our hands, + Shall not God search this out? for he + heart's secrets understands. + + Yea, for thy sake we're killed all day, + counted as slaughter-sheep. + Rise, Lord, cast us not ever off; + awake, why dost thou sleep? + + O wherefore hidest thou thy face? + forgett'st our cause distressed, + And our oppression? For our soul + is to the dust down pressed: + + Our belly also on the earth + fast cleaving, hold doth take. + Rise for our help, and us redeem, + ev'n for thy mercies' sake. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was perhaps composed on the same occasion as the 60th, and + may have a prophetic view to the after distresses of the Jews in the + time of Rehoboam, 2 Chron. 12; of Jehoram, 2 Chron. 21; of Ahaz, 2 + Chron. 28; of Hezekiah, 2 Kings 18-19; and during the Chaldean + captivity, Syro-Grecian oppression, etc.; and all these as typical of + the distresses of the gospel church under heathens and Anti- + Christians. It relates chiefly to the church, and contains, (1.) + Thankful acknowledgments of what the Lord had done for her in former + periods, as her God, her king, her joy, her praise, ver. 1-8. (2.) + Sorrowful complaints of divine desertion; and of the prevalent power, + cruelty, and derisive contempt of enemies, ver. 9-16. (3.) Solemn + protestation of continued integrity, and of constant adherence to the + Lord's way, amidst these manifold calamities, ver. 17-22. (4.) Strong + cries, with supplications and tears to God, for his merciful + appearance for and granting her relief, ver. 23-26.<br/><br/><br/>In + singing this, let me rejoice with them that rejoice, and weep with + them that weep. Let me rejoice in what the Lord hath wrought for his + people, in any former period; and in all their afflictions let me be + afflicted. Let me give the Lord no rest, till he make his church a joy + in the whole earth. + + - number: 45 + suggested_tunes: + - Praetorius + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + My heart brings forth a goodly thing; + my words that I indite + Concern the King: my tongue's a pen + of one that swift doth write. + + Thou fairer art than sons of men: + into thy lips is store + Of grace infused; God therefore thee + hath blessed for evermore. + + O thou that art the mighty One, + thy sword gird on thy thigh; + Ev'n with thy glory excellent, + and with thy majesty. + + For meekness, truth, and righteousness, + in state ride prosp'rously; + And thy right hand shall thee instruct + in things that fearful be. + + Thine arrows sharply pierce the heart + of th' en'mies of the King; + And under thy subjëction + the people down do bring. + + For ever and for ever is, + O God, thy throne of might; + The sceptre of thy kingdom is + a sceptre that is right. + + Thou lovest right, and hatest ill; + for God, thy God, most high, + Above thy fellows hath with th' oil + of joy anointed thee. + + Of aloes, myrrh, and cassia, + a smell thy garments had, + Out of the iv'ry palaces, + whereby they made thee glad. + + Among thy women hon'rable + kings' daughters were at hand: + Upon thy right hand did the queen + in gold of Ophir stand. + + O daughter, hearken and regard, + and do thine ear incline; + Likewise forget thy father's house, + and people that are thine. + + Then of the King desired shall be + thy beauty veh'mently: + Because he is thy Lord, do thou + him worship rev'rently. + + The daughter there of Tyre shall be + with gifts and off'rings great: + Those of the people that are rich + thy favour shall entreat. + + Behold, the daughter of the King + all glorious is within; + And with embroideries of gold + her garments wrought have been. + + She shall be brought unto the King + in robes with needle wrought; + Her fellow-virgins following + shall unto thee be brought. + + They shall be brought with gladness great, + and mirth on ev'ry side, + Into the palace of the King, + and there they shall abide. + + Instead of those thy fathers dear, + thy children thou may'st take, + And in all places of the earth + them noble princes make. + + Thy name remembered I will make + through ages all to be: + The people therefore evermore + shall praises give to thee. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was perhaps composed on the same occasion as the 60th, and + may have a prophetic view to the after distresses of the Jews in the + time of Rehoboam, 2 Chron. 12; of Jehoram, 2 Chron. 21; of Ahaz, 2 + Chron. 28; of Hezekiah, 2 Kings 18-19; and during the Chaldean + captivity, Syro-Grecian oppression, etc.; and all these as typical of + the distresses of the gospel church under heathens and Anti- + Christians. It relates chiefly to the church, and contains, (1.) + Thankful acknowledgments of what the Lord had done for her in former + periods, as her God, her king, her joy, her praise, ver. 1-8. (2.) + Sorrowful complaints of divine desertion; and of the prevalent power, + cruelty, and derisive contempt of enemies, ver. 9-16. (3.) Solemn + protestation of continued integrity, and of constant adherence to the + Lord's way, amidst these manifold calamities, ver. 17-22. (4.) Strong + cries, with supplications and tears to God, for his merciful + appearance for and granting her relief, ver. 23-26.<br/><br/><br/>In + singing this, let me rejoice with them that rejoice, and weep with + them that weep. Let me rejoice in what the Lord hath wrought for his + people, in any former period; and in all their afflictions let me be + afflicted. Let me give the Lord no rest, till he make his church a joy + in the whole earth. + + - number: 45 + suggested_tunes: + - Praetorius + metre: S.M. + is_second_version: true + text: | + My heart inditing is + good matter in a song: + I speak the things that I have made, + which to the King belong: + + My tongue shall be as quick, + his honour to indite, + As is the pen of any scribe + that useth fast to write. + + Thou 'rt fairest of all men; + grace in thy lips doth flow: + And therefore blessings evermore + on thee doth God bestow. + + Thy sword gird on thy thigh, + thou that art most of might: + Appear in dreadful majesty, + and in thy glory bright. + + For meekness, truth, and right, + ride prosp'rously in state; + And thy right hand shall teach to thee + things terrible and great. + + Thy shafts shall pierce their hearts + that foes are to the King; + Whereby into subjëction + the people thou shalt bring. + + Thy royal seat, O Lord, + for ever shall remain: + The sceptre of thy kingdom doth + all righteousness maintain. + + Thou lov'st right, and hat'st ill; + for God, thy God, most high, + Above thy fellows hath with th' oil + of joy anointed thee. + + Of myrrh and spices sweet + a smell thy garments had, + Out of the iv'ry palaces, + whereby they made thee glad. + + And in thy glorious train + kings' daughters waiting stand; + And thy fair queen, in Ophir gold, + doth stand at thy right hand. + + O daughter, take good heed, + incline, and give good ear; + Thou must forget thy kindred all, + and father's house most dear. + + Thy beauty to the King + shall then delightful be: + And do thou humbly worship him, + because thy Lord is he. + + The daughter then of Tyre + there with a gift shall be, + And all the wealthy of the land + shall make their suit to thee. + + The daughter of the King + all glorious is within; + And with embroideries of gold + her garments wrought have been. + + She cometh to the King + in robes with needle wrought; + The virgins that do follow her + shall unto thee be brought. + + They shall be brought with joy, + and mirth on ev'ry side, + Into the palace of the King, + and there they shall abide. + + And in thy fathers' stead, + thy children thou may'st take, + And in all places of the earth + them noble princes make. + + I will show forth thy name + to generations all: + Therefore the people evermore + to thee give praises shall. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + In this song of loves, are celebrated, (1.) The glories of Jesus our + Redeemer, particularly the transcendant comeliness and blessedness of + his person, God-man; his almighty power in conquering his people, and + destroying his enemies; the eternity, firmness, and equity of his + government: his royal unction with the Holy Ghost above measure; his + fitness for his work, and the splendour of his court, ver. 1-9. (2.) + The glories of the redeemed; their listening to Jesus' proposals of + marriage union with himself; their renunciation of all others for his + sake; their reverential submission to, and worship of him, ver. 10-11; + their glorious ornaments of righteousness and grace; and their + glorious entrance into the new covenant, and the eternal state, ver. + 12-15; their glorious succession and work, for perpetuating the fame + of the Redeemer, ver. 16-17.<br/><br/><br/>In singing this song of the + Lamb, let me with open face behold his glory, and be changed into the + same image from glory to glory, as by the Spirit of the Lord. Let my + admiration of his excellency swell to the brim, and my love burn with + a most vehement flame; and let my hopes of being for ever with him, be + strong and lively. Let my heart be all wonder at his excellency, + fulness, and grace all subjection to his government and laws; and + let my lips be filled with his praise and honour all the day. + + - number: 46 + suggested_tunes: + - Ladywell + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + God is our refuge and our strength, + in straits a present aid; + Therefore, although the earth remove, + we will not be afraid: + + Though hills amidst the seas be cast; + Though waters roaring make, + And troubled be; yea, though the hills + by swelling seas do shake. + + A river is, whose streams do glad + the city of our God; + The holy place, wherein the Lord + most high hath his abode. + + God in the midst of her doth dwell; + nothing shall her remove: + The Lord to her an helper will, + and that right early, prove. + + The heathen raged tumultuously, + the kingdoms movèd were: + The Lord God utterèd his voice, + the earth did melt for fear. + + The LORD of hosts upon our side + doth constantly remain: + The God of Jacob's our refuge, + us safely to maintain. + + Come, and behold what wondrous works + have by the LORD been wrought; + Come, see what desolätions + he on the earth hath brought. + + Unto the ends of all the earth + wars into peace he turns: + The bow he breaks, the spear he cuts, + in fire the chariot burns. + + Be still, and know that I am God; + among the heathen I + Will be exalted; I on earth + will be exalted high. + + Our God, who is the LORD of hosts, + is still upon our side; + The God of Jacob our refuge + for ever will abide. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + In this psalm, probably composed for celebrating some remarkable + victory, we have, (1.) Bold triumphs of faith in God himself, and the + mercies of the new covenant, amidst the most alarming danger and + distress which can be supposed, ver. 1-6. (2.) A thankful rehearsal of + the great things which God had wrought for the deliverance of his + people, and the destruction of their enemies, ver. 6-9. (3.) God's + heart-composing promise of promoting his own glory in every + providence; and faith's expectation of protection and safety, ver + 10-11.<br/><br/><br>While I sing it, come my soul, encourage thyself + in Jehovah as thy God, and thy all. Come drink abundantly out of + Jesus' heart-gladdening river of life his word, his blood, his + Spirit, his fulness, his love! And holding fast the beginning of thy + confidence unto the end, always give thanks. + + - number: 47 + suggested_tunes: + - Richmond + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + All people, clap your hands; to God + with voice of triumph shout: + For dreadful is the LORD most high, + great King the earth throughout. + + The heathen people under us + he surely shall subdue; + And he shall make the nätions + under our feet to bow. + + The lot of our inheritance + choose out for us shall he, + Of Jacob, whom he lovèd well, + ev'n the excellency. + + God is with shouts gone up, the LORD + with trumpets sounding high. + Sing praise to God, sing praise, sing praise, + praise to our King sing ye. + + For God is King of all the earth; + with knowledge praise express. + God rules the nations: God sits on + his throne of holiness. + + The princes of the people are + assembled willingly; + Ev'n of the God of Abraham + they who the people be. + + For why? the shields that do defend + the earth are only his: + They to the Lord belong; yea, he + exalted greatly is. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed on the same occasion as the 24th. + Here is, (1.) A revenue of praise demanded for God, from all people, + Jews and Gentiles, ver. 1, 6. (2.) A memorial of the grounds of + praise, viz. the majesty of God's nature, ver. 2; the great things he + had done, or would do for his people, in subduing their foes, and + providing portions for themselves; and in ascending to heaven, to + receive gifts, and prepare places for men, ver. 3-5; as also the high + sovereignty and universal extent of his government, ver. 2, + 7-9.<br/><br/><br/>While my lips utter this song, let all my inward + powers labour in viewing, in loving, in admiring, in extolling my + great, my glorious, my ascended, my all-governing, all-doing, and all + -giving Lord, Jesus Christ. + + - number: 48 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Magnus + - Stockton + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Great is the LORD, and greatly he + is to be praisèd still, + Within the city of our God, + upon his holy hill. + + Mount Zion stands most beautiful, + the joy of all the land; + The city of the mighty King + on her north side doth stand. + + The Lord within her palaces + is for a refuge known. + For, lo, the kings that gathered were + together, by have gone. + + But when they did behold the same, + they, wond'ring, would not stay; + But, being troubled at the sight, + they thence did haste away. + + Great terror there took hold on them; + they were possessed with fear; + Their grief came like a woman's pain, + when she a child doth bear. + + Thou Tarshish ships with east wind break'st: + As we have heard it told, + So, in the city of the LORD, + our eyes did it behold; + + In our God's city, which his hand + for ever stablish will. + We of thy loving-kindness thought, + Lord, in thy temple still. + + O Lord, according to thy name, + through all the earth's thy praise; + And thy right hand, O Lord, is full + of righteousness always. + + Because thy judgments are made known, + let Zion mount rejoice; + Of Judah let the daughters all + send forth a cheerful voice. + + Walk about Zion, and go round; + the high tow'rs thereof tell: + Consider ye her palaces, + and mark her bulwarks well; + + That ye may tell posterity. + For this God doth abide + Our God for evermore; he will + ev'n unto death us guide. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was no doubt composed to celebrate some remark able victory + or deliverance, in the days of David, or Jehoshaphat, 2 Chron. 20; or + of Hezekiah, 2 Kings 19. We have here, (1.) Jerusalem, the capital + city of Israel, and type of the gospel church and heavenly state, + celebrated for her beauty and relation to God, as the residence of his + temple and ordinances, ver. 1-2. (2.) Jehovah, the God of Israel, + celebrated for his kind and powerful protection of Jerusalem, and for + making her enemies flee off with much precipitation and terror, ver. + 3-7. (3.) The people of God, particularly in Jerusalem, meditating + upon, and celebrating the gracious and mighty things, which God had, + or would do for them, and for his discoveries of himself to them; and + promising themselves sure and lasting happiness in his relation to, + and direction of them, ver. 8-14.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing these + verses, let me be deeply affected with the glory, with the privileges, + and chiefly with the God of the Christian church, and of the new- + covenant state, and of the new Jerusalem, which is above, which is the + mother, and the desired city of us all. + + - number: 49 + suggested_tunes: + - Wigtown + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Hear this, all people, and give ear, + all in the world that dwell; + Both low and high, both rich and poor. + My mouth shall wisdom tell; + + My heart shall knowledge meditate. + I will incline mine ear + To parables, and on the harp + my sayings dark declare. + + Amidst those days that evil be, + why should I, fearing, doubt? + When of my heels th' iniquity + shall compass me about. + + Whoe'er they be that in their wealth + their confidence do pitch, + And boast themselves, because they are + become exceeding rich: + + Yet none of these his brother can + redeem by any way; + Nor can he unto God for him + sufficient ransom pay, + + (Their soul's redemption precious is, + and it can never be,) + That still he should for ever live, + and not corruption see. + + For why? he seeth that wise men die, + and brutish fools also + Do perish; and their wealth, when dead, + to others they let go. + + Their inward thought is, that their house + and dwelling-places shall + Stand through all ages; they their lands + by their own names do call. + + But yet in honour shall not man + abide continually; + But passing hence, may be compared + unto the beasts that die. + + Thus brutish folly plainly is + their wisdom and their way; + Yet their posterity approve + what they do fondly say. + + Like sheep they in the grave are laid, + and death shall them devour; + And in the morning upright men + shall over them have power: + + Their beauty from their dwelling shall + consume within the grave. + But from hell's hand God will me free, + for he shall me receive. + + Be thou not then afraid when one + enrichèd thou dost see, + Nor when the glory of his house + advancèd is on high: + + For he shall carry nothing hence + when death his days doth end; + Nor shall his glory after him + into the grave descend. + + Although he his own soul did bless + whilst he on earth did live; + (And when thou to thyself dost well, + men will thee praises give;) + + He to his fathers' race shall go, + they never shall see light. + Man honoured wanting knowledge is + like beasts that perish quite. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is a mirror calculated to exhibit the emptiness of all + worldly enjoyments. Observe, (1.) David's earnest attempt to awaken + all ranks of mankind to a serious consideration of this matter, as a + point of great importance and universal concern, ver. 1-4. (2.) His + irrefragable proofs of the vanity of earthly enjoyments viz., that + they cannot save from death either a man's self or his friend; and + that they cannot make men wise or happy in this world, and far less + render them happy in the future state, ver. 6-14. (3.) His attempt to + comfort himself and other saints, under the sense of their daily + infirmities, and of the chastisements received on account of their + sins; and against the slavish fears of death, and temptations arising + from the prosperity of the wicked, ver. 5, 15-18.<br/><br/><br> While + I sing, let me bewail my sinful minding of, and idolatrous attachment + to earthly things. Let me be henceforth as a weaned child, setting my + affections on things above, where Christ is at the right hand of God. + Let no uncertain riches or honours, but the living God, be the object + of all my trust and joy. + + - number: 50 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: S.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + The mighty God, the LORD, + hath spoken, and did call + The earth, from rising of the sun, + to where he hath his fall. + + From out of Zion hill, + which of excellency + And beauty the perfection is, + God shinèd gloriously. + + Our God shall surely come; + keep silence shall not he: + Before him fire shall waste, great storms + shall round about him be. + + Unto the heavens clear + he from above shall call, + And to the earth likewise, that he + may judge his people all. + + Together let my saints + unto me gathered be, + Those that by sacrifice have made + a covenant with me. + + And then the heavens shall + his righteousness declare: + Because the Lord himself is he + by whom men judgèd are. + + My people Isr'el hear, + speak will I from on high, + Against thee I will testify; + God, ev'n thy God, am I. + + I for thy sacrifice + no blame will on thee lay, + Nor for burnt-off'rings, which to me + thou offer'dst ev'ry day. + + I'll take no calf nor goats + from house or fold of thine: + For beasts of forest, cattle all + on thousand hills, are mine. + + The fowls on mountains high + are all to me well known; + Wild beasts which in the fields do lie, + ev'n they are all mine own. + + Then, if I hungry were, + I would not tell it thee; + Because the world, and fulness all + thereof, belongs to me. + + Will I eat flesh of bulls? + or goats' blood drink will I? + Thanks offer thou to God, and pay + thy vows to the Most High. + + And call upon me when + in trouble thou shalt be; + I will deliver thee, and thou + my name shalt glorify. + + But to the wicked man + God saith, My laws and truth + Should'st thou declare? how dar'st thou take + my cov'nant in thy mouth? + + Sith thou instruction hat'st, + which should thy ways direct; + And sith my words behind thy back + thou cast'st, and dost reject. + + When thou a thief didst see, + with him thou didst consent; + And with the vile adulterers + partaker on thou went. + + Thou giv'st thy mouth to ill, + thy tongue deceit doth frame; + Thou sitt'st, and 'gainst thy brother speak'st, + thy mother's son dost shame. + + Because I silence kept, + while thou these things hast wrought; + That I was altogether like + thyself, hath been thy thought; + + Yet I will thee reprove, + and set before thine eyes, + In order rankèd, thy misdeeds + and thine iniquities. + + Now, ye that God forget, + this carefully consider; + Lest I in pieces tear you all, + and none can you deliver. + + Whoso doth offer praise + me glorifies; and I + Will show him God's salvätion, + that orders right his way. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is a mirror calculated to exhibit the emptiness of all + worldly enjoyments. Observe, (1.) David's earnest attempt to awaken + all ranks of mankind to a serious consideration of this matter, as a + point of great importance and universal concern, ver. 1-4. (2.) His + irrefragable proofs of the vanity of earthly enjoyments viz., that + they cannot save from death either a man's self or his friend; and + that they cannot make men wise or happy in this world, and far less + render them happy in the future state, ver. 6-14. (3.) His attempt to + comfort himself and other saints, under the sense of their daily + infirmities, and of the chastisements received on account of their + sins; and against the slavish fears of death, and temptations arising + from the prosperity of the wicked, ver. 5, 15-18.<br/><br/><br> While + I sing, let me bewail my sinful minding of, and idolatrous attachment + to earthly things. Let me be henceforth as a weaned child, setting my + affections on things above, where Christ is at the right hand of God. + Let no uncertain riches or honours, but the living God, be the object + of all my trust and joy. + + - number: 50 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: true + text: | + The mighty God, the LORD, hath spoke, + and called the earth upon, + Ev'n from the rising of the sun + unto his going down. + + From out of Zion, his own hill, + where the perfection high + Of beauty is, from thence the Lord + hath shinèd gloriously. + + Our God shall come, and shall no more + be silent, but speak out: + Before him fire shall waste, great storms + shall compass him about. + + He to the heavens from above, + and to the earth below, + Shall call, that he his judgments may + before his people show. + + Let all my saints together be + unto me gatherèd; + Those that by sacrifice with me + a covenant have made. + + And then the heavens shall declare + his righteousness abroad: + Because the Lord himself doth come; + none else is judge but God. + + Hear, O my people, and I'll speak; + O Israèl by name, + Against thee I will testify; + God, ev'n thy God, I am. + + I for thy sacrifices few + reprove thee never will, + Nor for burnt-off'rings to have been + before me offered still. + + I'll take no bullock nor he-goats + from house nor folds of thine: + For beasts of forest, cattle all + on thousand hills, are mine. + + The fowls are all to me well known + that mountains high do yield; + And I do challenge as mine own + the wild beasts of the field. + + If I were hungry, I would not + to thee for need complain; + For earth, and all its fulness, doth + to me of right pertain. + + That I to eat the flesh of bulls + take pleasure dost thou think? + Or that I need, to quench my thirst, + the blood of goats to drink? + + Nay, rather unto me, thy God, + thanksgiving offer thou: + To the Most High perform thy word, + and fully pay thy vow: + + And in the day of trouble great + see that thou call on me; + I will deliver thee, and thou + my name shalt glorify. + + But God unto the wicked saith, + Why should'st thou mention make + Of my commands? how dar'st thou in + thy mouth my cov'nant take? + + Sith it is so that thou dost hate + all good instrüction; + And sith thou cast'st behind thy back, + and slight'st my words each one. + + When thou a thief didst see, then straight + thou join'dst with him in sin, + And with the vile adulterers + thou hast partaker been. + + Thy mouth to evil thou dost give, + thy tongue deceit doth frame. + Thou sitt'st, and 'gainst thy brother speak'st, + thy mother's son to shame. + + These things thou wickedly hast done, + and I have silent been: + Thou thought'st that I was like thyself, + and did approve thy sin: + + But I will sharply thee reprove, + and I will order right + Thy sins and thy transgrëssions + in presence of thy sight. + + Consider this, and be afraid, + ye that forget the Lord, + Lest I in pieces tear you all, + when none can help afford. + + Who off'reth praise me glorifies: + I will show God's salvation + To him that ordereth aright + his life and conversation. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm may be considered as a rebuke to the carnal Jews who rested + in, and boasted of their external ceremonies in worship, to the + neglect of the weightier matters of the law mercy, judgment, and + faith; or as a prediction of the coming of Christ, to abolish the + ceremonial worship, eject the Jews from his church, and establish a + more pure and spiritual form of worship under the gospel: or, in fine, + as a representation of the last judgment; in which Christ shall come, + to render to every man according to his deeds. Observe, (1.) The awful + appearance of God our Redeemer, in the flesh, in power, or in the + clouds; with the gathering of the people to him, ver. 1-6. (2.) An + engaging admonition to improve God's new-covenant grant of himself to + be our God, as an excitement to exchange legal ceremonies into prayer, + thanksgiving and holy obedience; or, at least, to give a remarkable + preference to the latter, ver. 7-15. (3.) A terrible charge of + hypocrisy, slander, contempt of God's word, and of atheistical + imaginations concerning God, laid against the wicked, with a fearful + sentence of condemnation founded thereon, ver. 16-22. (4.) An alarming + warning of danger to the forgetters of God, and an encouraging promise + to such as study to glorify him by a holy conversation, ver. + 22-23.<br/><br/><br/>Sing this, my soul, with solemn awe, assisted + before the great Searcher of hearts, and as by faith beholding Jesus + in my nature, sitting on his great white throne, gathering the nations + to his bar, opening the books, and judging mankind out of the things + found written therein. + + - number: 51 + suggested_tunes: + - Dundee + - Walsall + - St. Mary + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + After thy loving-kindness, Lord, + have mercy upon me: + For thy compassions great, blot out + all mine iniquity. + + Me cleanse from sin, and throughly wash + from mine iniquity: + For my transgressions I confess; + my sin I ever see. + + 'Gainst thee, thee only, have I sinned, + in thy sight done this ill; + That when thou speak'st thou may'st be just, + and clear in judging still. + + Behold, I in iniquity + was formed the womb within; + My mother also me conceived + in guiltiness and sin. + + Behold, thou in the inward parts + with truth delighted art; + And wisdom thou shalt make me know + within the hidden part. + + Do thou with hyssop sprinkle me, + I shall be cleansèd so; + Yea, wash thou me, and then I shall + be whiter than the snow. + + Of gladness and of joyfulness + make me to hear the voice; + That so these very bones which thou + hast broken may rejoice. + + All mine iniquities blot out, + thy face hide from my sin. + Create a clean heart, Lord, renew + a right spirit me within. + + Cast me not from thy sight, nor take + thy Holy Spirit away. + Restore me thy salvation's joy; + with thy free Spirit me stay. + + Then will I teach thy ways unto + those that transgressors be; + And those that sinners are shall then + be turnèd unto thee. + + O God, of my salvation God, + me from blood-guiltiness + Set free; then shall my tongue aloud + sing of thy righteousness. + + My closèd lips, O Lord, by thee + let them be openèd; + Then shall thy praises by my mouth + abroad be publishèd. + + For thou desir'st not sacrifice, + else would I give it thee; + Nor wilt thou with burnt-offering + at all delighted be. + + A broken spirit is to God + a pleasing sacrifice: + A broken and a contrite heart, + Lord, thou wilt not despise. + + Show kindness, and do good, O Lord, + to Zion, thine own hill: + The walls of thy Jerusalem + build up of thy good will. + + Then righteous off'rings shall thee please, + and off'rings burnt, which they + With whole burnt-off'rings, and with calves, + shall on thine altar lay. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was penned by David, when reproved by Nathan for his + adultery with Bathsheba, and for his murder of Uriah, 2 Sam. 12. We + have in it, (1.) David's candid and truly sorrowful acknowledgments of + his sin, particularly his adultery and murder, as highly dishonouring + to God; and of his original sin, as the source thereof, ver. 1-5, 17. + (2.) His earnest supplications for pardon of his offences, and for + heart-purifying, and renewing grace; for renewed influences of the + Holy Ghost; for peace of conscience, and comfortable fellowship with + God, for himself, ver. 1-2, 6-15; and for reformation of, and + prosperity to the church, which had been hurt by his sin, ver. 18-19. + (3.) His sincere purposes of heart, to improve God's favour to + himself, in promoting the instruction of others, and in giving them an + honourable pattern of an exact celebration of God's public worship, + ver. 13-16, 19.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing this penitential psalm, let + my heart be filled with clear but evangelic views of my aggravated, my + unnumbered transgressions; and with deep sorrow and remorse for them. + Let me pour forth supplications, strong cries and tears to him who is + able to forgive all mine iniquities, and to deliver me from every + corruption. Let me wash myself in Jesus' blood, as the fountain opened + to men for sin and for uncleanness. + + - number: 52 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Why dost thou boast, O mighty man, + of mischief and of ill? + The goodness of Almighty God + endureth ever still. + + Thy tongue mischievous calumnies + deviseth subtilely, + Like to a razor sharp to cut, + working deceitfully. + + Ill more than good, and more than truth + thou lovest to speak wrong: + Thou lovest all-devouring words, + O thou deceitful tongue. + + So God shall thee destroy for aye, + remove thee, pluck thee out + Quite from thy house, out of the land + of life he shall thee root. + + The righteous shall it see, and fear, + and laugh at him they shall: + Lo, this the man is that did not + make God his strength at all: + + But he in his abundant wealth + his confidence did place; + And he took strength unto himself + from his own wickedness. + + But I am in the house of God + like to an olive green: + My confidence for ever hath + upon God's mercy been. + + And I for ever will thee praise, + because thou hast done this: + I on thy name will wait; for good + before thy saints it is. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm relates to Doeg the Edomite, who informed Saul how + Ahimelech the high priest had entertained David and his servants; and + who, in consequence thereof, had murdered Ahimelech, and above + fourscore other priests, 1 Sam. 22. Here, (1.) David charges Doeg + that, notwithstanding the manifested and everlasting goodness of God, + he gloried in his malice, craft, cruelty, and other wickedness, ver. + 1-5. (2.) By the spirit of prophecy he condemns him for his + wickedness, to be plucked from his dwelling, and rooted out of the + land of the living, to the great joy of the fearers of God, ver. 6-7. + (3.) He comforts himself in the everlasting mercy of God, and with the + assured hopes that he should yet praise him for his kindness, ver, + 8-9.<br/><br/><br/>Learn, O my soul, to detest all deceit and cruelty. + Learn to imitate the goodness of God, which endureth continually; and + while friends are cut off, or foes prevail, let me live by faith on a + gracious God, as my all and in all. + + - number: 53 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + That there is not a God, the fool + doth in his heart conclude: + They are corrupt, their works are vile, + not one of them doth good. + + The Lord upon the sons of men + from heav'n did cast his eyes, + To see if any one there was + that sought God, and was wise. + + They altogether filthy are, + they all are backward gone; + And there is none that doeth good, + no, not so much as one. + + These workers of iniquity, + do they not know at all, + That they my people eat as bread, + and on God do not call? + + Ev'n there they were afraid, and stood + with trembling, all dismayed, + Whereas there was no cause at all + why they should be afraid: + + For God his bones that thee besieged + hath scattered all abroad; + Thou hast confounded them, for they + despisèd are of God. + + Let Isr'el's help from Zion come: + when back the Lord shall bring + His captives, Jacob shall rejoice, + and Israèl shall sing. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is much the same as the 14th. It speaks, (1.) Humbling + convictions to all men, of their sinfulness of nature and practice, + ver. 1-3. (2.) Fearful terrors to them who persecute and oppress the + people of God, ver. 4-5. (3.) Abundant comfort, in the salvation of + God to his persecuted saints, ver. 5-6.<br/><br/><br/>Learn, my soul, + frequently to review thy original and thy contracted filthiness. + Admire the patience and mercy of God towards mankind. Trust not in + man, for wherein is he to be accounted of! But in the full assurance + of faith, wait patiently for God's salvation. + + - number: 54 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Save me, O God, by thy great name, + and judge me by thy strength: + My prayer hear, O God; give ear + unto my words at length. + + For they that strangers are to me + do up against me rise; + Oppressors seek my soul, and God + set not before their eyes. + + The Lord my God my helper is, + lo, therefore I am bold: + He taketh part with everyone + that doth my soul uphold. + + Unto mine enemies he shall + mischief and ill repay: + O for thy truth's sake cut them off, + and sweep them clean away. + + I will a sacrifice to thee + give with free willingness; + Thy name, O LORD, because 'tis good, + with praise I will confess. + + For he hath me delivered + from all adversities; + And his desire mine eye hath seen + upon mine enemies. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was composed when the Ziphites, men of the same tribe with + David, instigated Saul to destroy him, and directed him how to + accomplish it, 1 Sam. 23-24. It contains, (1.) David's strong cries to + his God, that he would save and judge him, and hear his requests, ver. + 1-2. (2.) Bitter complaints of the oppression and impiety of his + enemies, ver. 3. (3.) His triumphant consolation in the view of what + God was to him, and would do for him, intermixed with holy resolutions + to praise God for his kindness, ver. 4-7.<br/><br/><br/>While Satan + and my lusts, and the men of the world, unite to destroy me, let me + call on God. Let me be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his + might. Let me rejoice in him, who hath delivered, who doth deliver, + and in whom I trust that he will deliver me. + + - number: 55 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Lord, hear my pray'r, hide not thyself + from my entreating voice: + Attend and hear me; in my plaint + I mourn and make a noise. + + Because of th' en'my's voice, and for + lewd men's oppression great: + On me they cast iniquity, + and they in wrath me hate. + + Sore pained within me is my heart: + death's terrors on me fall. + On me comes trembling, fear and dread + o'erwhelmèd me withal. + + O that I, like a dove, had wings, + said I, then would I flee + Far hence, that I might find a place + where I in rest might be. + + Lo, then far off I wander would, + and in the desert stay; + From windy storm and tempest I + would haste to 'scape away. + + O Lord, on them destruction bring, + and do their tongues divide; + For in the city violence + and strife I have espied. + + They day and night upon the walls + do go about it round: + There mischief is, and sorrow there + in midst of it is found. + + Abundant wickedness there is + within her inward part; + And from her streets deceitfulness + and guile do not depart. + + He was no foe that me reproached, + then that endure I could; + Nor hater that did 'gainst me boast, + from him me hide I would. + + But thou, man, who mine equal, guide, + and mine acquaintance wast: + We joined sweet counsels, to God's house + in company we passed. + + Let death upon them seize, and down + let them go quick to hell; + For wickedness doth much abound + among them where they dwell. + + I'll call on God: GOD will me save. + I'll pray, and make a noise + At ev'ning, morning, and at noon; + and he shall hear my voice. + + He hath my soul deliverèd, + that it in peace might be + From battle that against me was; + for many were with me. + + The Lord shall hear, and them afflict, + of old who hath abode: + Because they never changes have, + therefore they fear not God. + + 'Gainst those that were at peace with him + he hath put forth his hand: + The covènant that he had made, + by breaking he profaned. + + More smooth than butter were his words, + while in his heart was war; + His speeches were more soft than oil, + and yet drawn swords they are. + + Cast thou thy burden on the LORD, + and he shall thee sustain; + Yea, he shall cause the righteous man + unmovèd to remain. + + But thou, O Lord my God, those men + in justice shalt o'erthrow, + And in destruction's dungeon dark + at last shalt lay them low: + + The bloody and deceitful men + shall not live half their days: + But upon thee with confidence + I will depend always. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably penned by David when he fled from Jerusalem + for fear of Absalom his son, 2 Sam. 15-16. Observe, (1.) David's + earnest prayers for help and favour from God, amidst his great + oppression, griefs, and fears, ver. 1-8. (2.) His request for the just + manifestation of God's vengeance, in the dispersion and destruction of + his enemies, who, in Jerusalem, particularly Ahithophel, had behaved + in so base and treacherous a manner, ver. 9-15. (3.) Resolved on + frequent and fervent prayer, he encourages himself and friends to + trust in God for support and deliverance, and for the speedy + destruction of their enemies, however deceitful and bloody, ver. + 16-23.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, behold, my soul, as in a glass, how + Jesus our Redeemer, was hated, was betrayed, and murdered by his + brethren of Judah, at Jerusalem; and how the fearful vengeance of the + Almighty overtook them, on that account. And if I am oppressed, + defamed, or persecuted, that I know not whither to flee; if in cities, + or by particular friends, wickedness and malice discover themselves, + let me study resignation to the disposals of Providence, and call upon + God in the assured hopes that he will answer in due time. Let me cast + all my wants and burdens on him, who is my God, that doth me save. + + - number: 56 + suggested_tunes: + - Cheshire + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Show mercy, Lord, to me, for man + would swallow me outright; + He me oppresseth, while he doth + against me daily fight. + + They daily would me swallow up + that hate me spitefully; + For they be many that do fight + against me, O Most High. + + When I'm afraid I'll trust in thee: + In God I'll praise his word; + I will not fear what flesh can do, + my trust is in the Lord. + + Each day they wrest my words; their thoughts + 'gainst me are all for ill. + They meet, they lurk, they mark my steps, + waiting my soul to kill. + + But shall they by iniquity + escape thy judgments so? + O God, with indignation down + do thou the people throw. + + My wand'rings all what they have been + thou know'st, their number took; + Into thy bottle put my tears: + are they not in thy book? + + My foes shall, when I cry, turn back; + I know 't, God is for me. + In God his word I'll praise; his word + in GOD shall praisèd be. + + In God I trust; I will not fear + what man can do to me. + Thy vows upon me are, O God: + I'll render praise to thee. + + Wilt thou not, who from death me saved, + my feet from falls keep free, + To walk before God in the light + of those that living be? + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was penned by David, when the Philistines apprehended him + in Gath, 1 Sam. 21:10-15. It contains, (1.) His earnest supplications + to God for merciful protection, and deliverance from his enemies, who + were barbarous, powerful, crafty, malicious, and restless, ver. 1-2, + 5-7. (2.) His assured confidence in God, as his own God, who had + spoken good concerning him, and took particular notice of his + grievances, ver. 3-4, 8, 11. (3.) Firm hopes that his prayers should + issue in the defeat of his enemies, and that his faith would set him + above the slavish fears of men, ver. 9-11; and that, while he paid his + vows to God, he should have further occasion to praise the Lord, for + what he had done, and would do for him, ver. 12-13. Thus let me, in + all my straits, have recourse to God. While his promises remain + infallible, let me rejoice therein, and, without anxiety, cheerfully + expect their fulfillment. + + - number: 57 + suggested_tunes: + - Martyrdom + - Hermon + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Be merciful to me, O God; + thy mercy unto me + Do thou extend; because my soul + doth put her trust in thee: + + Yea, in the shadow of thy wings + my refuge I will place, + Until these sad calamities + do wholly overpass. + + My cry I will cause to ascend + unto the Lord most high; + To God, who doth all things for me + perform most perfectly. + + From heav'n he shall send down, and me + from his reproach defend + That would devour me: God his truth + and mercy forth shall send. + + My soul among fierce lions is, + I firebrands live among, + Men's sons, whose teeth are spears and darts, + a sharp sword is their tongue. + + Be thou exalted very high + above the heav'ns, O God; + Let thou thy glory be advanced + o'er all the earth abroad. + + My soul 's bowed down; for they a net + have laid, my steps to snare: + Into the pit which they have digged + for me, they fallen are. + + My heart is fixed, my heart is fixed, + O God; I'll sing and praise. + My glory wake; wake psalt'ry, harp; + myself I'll early raise. + + I'll praise thee 'mong the people, Lord; + 'mong nations sing will I: + For great to heav'n thy mercy is, + thy truth is to the sky. + + O Lord, exalted be thy name + above the heav'ns to stand: + Do thou thy glory far advance + above both sea and land. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was penned by David, when he fled from Saul in the cave; 1 + Sam. 24; and contains, (1.) David's earnest betaking of himself to God + upon whom all his dependence, was fixed, towards whom all his + desires were bent, and from whom only he expected relief for mercy + amidst his great troubles, ver. 1-2. (2.) His complaints of the + cruelty, malice, and calumnious deceit of his inveterate enemies, ver. + 3-4, 6. (3.) His believing triumph in God; in which he prepares + himself for praising God, excites himself to it, delights himself in + it, and furnisheth himself with matter for it, ver. 7-10. (4.) + Conscious of his own inability to praise God enough, he leaves it on + God, to exalt and glorify himself, ver. 5-11.<br/><br/><br/>While I + sing, let me cry aloud for mercy; let me lay my spiritual and temporal + adversities before the Lord; and let me triumph in the God of my + salvation; and employ him to glorify his name in all the earth. + + - number: 58 + suggested_tunes: + - Evan + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Do ye, O congregätion, + indeed speak righteousness? + O ye that are the sons of men, + judge ye with uprightness? + + Yea, ev'n within your very hearts + ye wickedness have done; + And ye the vi'lence of your hands + do weigh the earth upon. + + The wicked men estrangèd are, + ev'n from the very womb; + They, speaking lies, do stray as soon + as to the world they come. + + Unto a serpent's poison like + their poison doth appear; + Yea, they are like the adder deaf, + that closely stops her ear; + + That so she may not hear the voice + of one that charm her would, + No, not though he most cunning were, + and charm most wisely could. + + Their teeth, O God, within their mouth + break thou in pieces small; + The great teeth break thou out, O LORD, + of these young lions all. + + Let them like waters melt away, + which downward still do flow: + In pieces cut his arrows all, + when he shall bend his bow. + + Like to a snail that melts away, + let each of them be gone; + Like woman's birth untimely, that + they never see the sun. + + He shall them take away before + your pots the thorns can find, + Both living, and in fury great, + as with a stormy wind. + + The righteous, when he vengeance sees, + he shall be joyful then; + The righteous one shall wash his feet + in blood of wicked men. + + So men shall say, The righteous man + reward shall never miss: + And verily upon the earth + a God to judge there is. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, when Saul carried on some + kind of legal prosecution against him, which is not mentioned in the + history of his reign. Here, (1.) He describes the corruption of these + judges' government, in neglecting to do justice, and in readiness to + do injustice; and the corruption of their nature, with their malice, + falsehood, and obstinate untractableness, ver. 1-5. (2.) He prays that + God would disable them to perpetrate mischief; would defeat their + projects, and weaken their influence, ver. 6-8. (3.) He predicts their + ruin, as calculated to promote the comfort of the godly, and the + conviction of sinners, ver. 9-11.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me + search out my corruptions, and bewail my obstinate refusals of Jesus + Christ, and the counsels of his word. Let me dread the speedy, but + awful vengeance of God, if I regard iniquity in my heart, or indulge + it in my life. + + - number: 59 + suggested_tunes: + - Bangor + - Evan + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + My God, deliver me from those + that are mine enemies; + And do thou me defend from those + that up against me rise. + + Do thou deliver me from them + that work iniquity; + And give me safety from the men + of bloody cruelty. + + For, lo, they for my soul lay wait: + the mighty do combine + Against me, Lord; not for my fault, + nor any sin of mine. + + They run, and, without fault in me, + themselves do ready make: + Awake to meet me with thy help; + and do thou notice take. + + Awake therefore, LORD God of hosts, + thou God of Israel, + To visit heathen all: spare none + that wickedly rebel. + + At ev'ning they go to and fro; + they make great noise and sound, + Like to a dog, and often walk + about the city round. + + Behold, they belch out with their mouth, + and in their lips are swords: + For they do say thus, Who is he + that now doth hear our words? + + But thou, O LORD, shalt laugh at them, + and all the heathen mock. + While he's in pow'r I'll wait on thee; + for God is my high rock. + + He of my mercy that is God + betimes shall me prevent; + Upon mine en'mies God shall let + me see mine heart's content. + + Them slay not, lest my folk forget; + but scatter them abroad + By thy strong pow'r; and bring them down, + O thou our shield and God. + + For their mouth's sin, and for the words + that from their lips do fly, + Let them be taken in their pride; + because they curse and lie. + + In wrath consume them, them consume, + that so they may not be: + And that in Jacob God doth rule + to th' earth's ends let them see. + + At ev'ning let thou them return, + making great noise and sound, + Like to a dog, and often walk + about the city round. + + And let them wander up and down, + in seeking food to eat; + And let them grudge when they shall not + be satisfied with meat. + + But of thy pow'r I'll sing aloud; + at morn thy mercy praise: + For thou to me my refuge wast, + and tow'r, in troublous days. + + O God, thou art my strength, I will + sing praises unto thee; + For God is my defence, a God + of mercy unto me. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was penned by David, when Saul sent messengers to watch his + house in order to kill him, 1 Sam. 19. In it, as in the seven + immediately preceding, we have, (1.) David's bitter complaints of his + enemies, as wicked, barbarous, malicious, and atheistical, ver. 1-7. + (2.) His predictory prayers that God would expose these enemies to + contempt and derision; make them standing monuments of his just + indignation; deal with them according to their sins; consume them in + his wrath; and even render their sin their punishment, ver. 8, 10, 15. + (3.) His holy resolutions to wait upon God, till his judgments should + be executed upon them; and then to praise him for his protecting + power, ver. 9-10, 16-17.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me think of + the opposition made to David's Lord, and of the unrelenting vengeance + which hath overtaken his enemies, Jewish and Heathen, and shall + overtake his Antichristian and other opposers. While his honours are + trampled under foot, let me wait on, and trust in God; that at last I + may join in the hallelujahs of his people, when the smoke of his + enemies' torment ascendeth up for ever and ever. + + - number: 60 + suggested_tunes: + - Dundee + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O Lord, thou hast rejected us, + and scatter'd us abroad; + Thou justly hast displeasèd been; + return to us, O God. + + The earth to tremble thou hast made; + therein didst breaches make: + Do thou thereof the breaches heal, + because the land doth shake. + + Unto thy people thou hard things + hast showed, and on them sent; + And thou hast causèd us to drink + wine of astonishment. + + And yet a banner thou hast given + to them who thee do fear; + That it by them, because of truth, + displayèd may appear. + + That thy belovèd people may + delivered be from thrall, + Save with the pow'r of thy right hand, + and hear me when I call. + + God in his holiness hath spoke; + herein I will take pleasure: + Shechem I will divide, and forth + will Succoth's valley measure. + + Gilead I claim as mine by right; + Manasseh mine shall be; + Ephraim is of mine head the strength; + Judah gives laws for me; + + Moab's my washing-pot; my shoe + I'll over Edom throw; + And over Palestina's land + I will in triumph go. + + O who is he will bring me to + the city fortified? + O who is he that to the land + of Edom will me guide? + + O God, which hadest us cast off, + this thing wilt thou not do? + Ev'n thou, O God, which didest not + forth with our armies go? + + Help us from trouble; for the help + is vain which man supplies. + Through God we'll do great acts; he shall + tread down our enemies. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was penned by David, during his wars with the Syrians and + Edomites, 2 Sam. 8. Here, (1.) He bewails the tokens of God's + displeasure with Israel, in the breaking and disjointing of the + nation, under Saul and Ishbosheth, ver. 1-3. (2.) In thankful + contemplation of the late revival he had given to their affairs by his + own accession to the throne, and victories over the Philistines, + Moabites, etc., he beseeches God to grant them victory over, and rest + from all their other enemies, ver. 4-5. (3.) In the confident + expectation of God's fulfilment of his promises, along with the + importunate supplication, he expresseth his triumphant hopes, that God + would quickly subdue every enemy, the fortified cities of Edom not + excepted, ver. 6-12.<br/><br/><br/>In all my distressed cases, let me + rejoice in the banner, the ensign given and displayed to the nations; + and in the faith of God's promise let me firmly expect victory over + every spiritual foe, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God, the full + enjoyment of the Canaan that is above. + + - number: 61 + suggested_tunes: + - Harrington + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O God, give ear unto my cry; + unto my pray'r attend. + From th' utmost corner of the land + my cry to thee I'll send. + + What time my heart is overwhelmed + and in perplexity, + Do thou me lead unto the Rock + that higher is than I. + + For thou hast for my refuge been + a shelter by thy pow'r; + And for defence against my foes + thou hast been a strong tow'r. + + Within thy tabernacle I + for ever will abide; + And under covert of thy wings + with confidence me hide. + + For thou the vows that I did make, + O Lord my God, didst hear: + Thou hast giv'n me the heritage + of those thy name that fear. + + A life prolonged for many days + thou to the king shalt give; + Like many generations be + the years which he shall live. + + He in God's presence his abode + for evermore shall have: + O do thou truth and mercy both + prepare, that may him save. + + And so will I perpetually + sing praise unto thy name; + That having made my vows, I may + each day perform the same. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Here, (1.) David, in commemorating what the Lord had formerly done to + him, and in the faith of what he had promised, cries to God for + comfort and protection, amidst great troubles, ver. 1-4. (2.) In the + view of what God had and would for ever do for him, he supplicates + necessary mercies, and resolves on everlasting praise and thanksgiving + to God, as his bounden duty, ver. 5-8.<br/><br/><br/>So may all + providences, distressful or smiling, lead my soul to a thankful + panting for God, as my all and in all. + + - number: 62 + suggested_tunes: + - Howard (Dublin) + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + My soul with expectätion + depends on God indeed; + My strength and my salvation doth + from him alone proceed. + + He only my salvation is, + and my strong rock is he: + He only is my sure defence; + much moved I shall not be. + + How long will ye against a man + plot mischief? ye shall all + Be slain; ye as a tott'ring fence + shall be, and bowing wall. + + They only plot to cast him down + from his excellency: + They joy in lies; with mouth they bless, + but they curse inwardly. + + My soul, wait thou with pätience + upon thy God alone; + On him dependeth all my hope + and expectätion. + + He only my salvation is, + and my strong rock is he; + He only is my sure defence: + I shall not movèd be. + + In God my glory placèd is, + and my salvation sure; + In God the rock is of my strength, + my refuge most secure. + + Ye people, place your confidence + in him continually; + Before him pour ye out your heart: + God is our refuge high. + + Surely mean men are vanity, + and great men are a lie; + In balance laid, they wholly are + more light than vanity. + + Trust ye not in opprëssion, + in robb'ry be not vain; + On wealth set not your hearts, when as + increasèd is your gain. + + God hath it spoken once to me, + yea, this I heard again, + That powèr to Almighty God + alone doth appertain. + + Yea, mercy also unto thee + belongs, O Lord, alone: + For thou according to his work + rewardest ev'ry one. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + In this psalm, (1.) David solemnly avows his manifold relations to + God; his composed dependence on, fixed trust in, and quiet waiting for + God; and his hopes of the ruin of his enemies, ver. 1-7. (2.) He + earnestly encourageth others to trust in, and call on God, who is + infinite in power, mercy, and justice; and to beware of trusting in + men, or in outward riches or honours, which are deceitful, and + unsubstantial, ver. 8-12.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, go thou, my + soul, and do likewise. Be weaned from all dependence on creatures; but + cleave to, and depend on this all-sufficient Jehovah, as answerable to + all thy needs, all thy desires, all thy enjoying powers, for time and + for eternity. Then, O how fixed in safety! and how filled with the + consolations of Christ! + + - number: 63 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Lord, thee my God, I'll early seek: + my soul doth thirst for thee; + My flesh longs in a dry parched land, + wherein no waters be: + + That I thy powèr may behold, + and brightness of thy face, + As I have seen thee heretofore + within thy holy place. + + Since better is thy love than life, + my lips thee praise shall give. + I in thy name will lift my hands, + and bless thee while I live. + + Ev'n as with marrow and with fat + my soul shall fillèd be; + Then shall my mouth with joyful lips + sing praises unto thee: + + When I do thee upon my bed + remember with delight, + And when on thee I meditate + in watches of the night. + + In shadow of thy wings I'll joy, + for thou mine help hast been. + My soul thee follows hard; and me + thy right hand doth sustain. + + Who seek my soul to spill shall sink + down to earth's lowest room. + They by the sword shall be cut off, + and foxes' prey become. + + Yet shall the king in God rejoice, + and each one glory shall + That swear by him; but stopped shall be + the mouth of liars all. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was penned by David, while he hid himself from the fury of + Saul, in the wilderness of Judah, 1 Sam. 22:5; or 23:14, 24-25; or + 24:1; or, when he fled from Absalom, 2 Sam. 25-26. We have, (1.) His + strong faith, working in ardent desires after the most familiar + fellowship with God in public ordinances, ver. 1-2. (2.) His + superlative estimation of God, issuing in hearty resolutions to be for + ever employed in his praise, ver. 3-4. (3.) His heart-ravishing + satisfaction in God, amidst secret and fixed meditation on his + excellencies and love, ver. 5-6. (4.) His joyful dependence on God, as + his Saviour and portion, ver. 7-8. (5.) His holy triumph in God, as + his preserver, and the destroyer of his enemies, ver. + 9-11.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing these high praises of God, let my + soul be strong in the faith, giving glory to God; embracing the + promise of himself, and calling all the fulness of the Godhead my own. + Let me be all in raptures of divine love, and holy delight; let no + guile, no corruption, no carnal care, enervate or damp my inward + powers: but let all be opened, be wide stretched to grasp my infinite + all the great I Am. + + - number: 64 + suggested_tunes: + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + When I to thee my prayer make, + Lord, to my voice give ear; + My life save from the enemy, + of whom I stand in fear. + + Me from their secret counsel hide + who do live wickedly; + From insurrection of those men + that work iniquity: + + Who do their tongues with malice whet, + and make them cut like swords; + In whose bent bows are arrows set, + ev'n sharp and bitter words: + + That they may at the perfect man + in secret aim their shot; + Yea, suddenly they dare at him + to shoot, and fear it not. + + In ill encourage they themselves, + and their snares close do lay: + Together conference they have; + Who shall them see? they say. + + They have searched out iniquities, + a perfect search they keep: + Of each of them the inward thought, + and very heart, is deep. + + God shall an arrow shoot at them, + and wound them suddenly: + So their own tongue shall them confound; + all who them see shall fly. + + And on all men a fear shall fall, + God's works they shall declare; + For they shall wisely notice take + what these his doings are. + + In God the righteous shall rejoice, + and trust upon his might; + Yea, they shall greatly glory all + in heart that are upright. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm contains, (1.) David's earnest supplications for + preservation from his enemies, who were so spiteful in their + calumnious reproaches; so close and subtile in their malicious plots; + and so industrious and active, in executing their cruel projects, ver. + 1-6. (2.) His predictions, that God, by just vengeance, would quickly + render these enemies a terror to themselves and others, and an + occasion of holy joy and confidence to the saints, ver. + 7-10.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me commit my spiritual enemies + into the hand of God, who is able to destroy them, and will quickly, + to my everlasting comfort, tread them all under my feet. + + - number: 65 + suggested_tunes: + - Dunfermline + - St. Matthew + - St. Stephen + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Praise waits for thee in Zion, Lord: + to thee vows paid shall be. + O thou that hearer art of pray'r, + all flesh shall come to thee. + + Iniquities, I must confess, + prevail against me do: + But as for our transgrëssions, + them purge away shalt thou. + + Bless'd is the man whom thou dost choose, + and mak'st approach to thee, + That he within thy courts, O Lord, + may still a dweller be: + + We surely shall be satisfied + with thy abundant grace, + And with the goodness of thy house, + ev'n of thy holy place. + + O God of our salvätion, + thou, in thy righteousness, + By fearful works unto our pray'rs + thine answer dost express: + + Therefore the ends of all the earth, + and those afar that be + Upon the sea, their confidence, + O Lord, will place in thee. + + Who, being girt with pow'r, sets fast + by his great strength the hills. + Who noise of seas, noise of their waves, + and people's tumult, stills. + + Those in the utmost parts that dwell + are at thy signs afraid: + Th' outgoings of the morn and ev'n + by thee are joyful made. + + The earth thou visit'st, wat'ring it; + thou mak'st it rich to grow + With God's full flood; thou corn prepar'st, + when thou provid'st it so. + + Her rigs thou wat'rest plenteously, + her furrows settelest: + With show'rs thou dost her mollify, + her spring by thee is blest. + + So thou the year most lib'rally + dost with thy goodness crown; + And all thy paths abundantly + on us drop fatness down. + + They drop upon the pastures wide, + that do in deserts lie; + The little hills on ev'ry side + rejoice right pleasantly. + + With flocks the pastures clothèd be, + the vales with corn are clad; + And now they shout and sing to thee, + for thou hast made them glad. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Here we are directed to praise God, (1.) For his kindness manifested + in his kingdom of grace in hearing prayers; in pardoning iniquities; + in satisfying the souls of his people with his blessings; and in + protecting and supporting them in every exigence, ver. 1-5. (2.) For + his kindness in the kingdom of Providence in fixing the mountains; in + calming the seas; in preserving the regular succession of day and + night; and in rendering the fields fruitful, and the flocks numerous + and happy, ver. 6-13.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let praise wait, in + my soul, for the Lord; and let me pour out my heart before him. Under + a deep sense of guilt and pollution, let me believe his unbounded + forgiveness, and sanctifying influence. Let me come even to his seat, + and enjoy ravishing fellowship with him. Let all my confidence be + fixed on him; and, even in the blessings of Providence, let me discern + the exceeding riches of his grace. + + - number: 66 + suggested_tunes: + - Stockton + - Crimond + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + All lands to God, in joyful sounds, + aloft your voices raise. + Sing forth the honour of his name, + and glorious make his praise. + + Say unto God, How terrible + in all thy works art thou! + Through thy great pow'r thy foes to thee + shall be constrained to bow. + + All on the earth shall worship thee, + they shall thy praise proclaim + In songs: they shall sing cheerfully + unto thy holy name. + + Come, and the works that God hath wrought + with admiration see: + In's working to the sons of men + most terrible is he. + + Into dry land the sea he turned, + and they a passage had; + Ev'n marching through the flood on foot, + there we in him were glad. + + He ruleth ever by his pow'r; + his eyes the nations see: + O let not the rebellious ones + lift up themselves on high. + + Ye people, bless our God; aloud + the voice speak of his praise: + Our soul in life who safe preserves, + our foot from sliding stays. + + For thou didst prove and try us, Lord, + as men do silver try; + Brought'st us into the net, and mad'st + bands on our loins to lie. + + Thou hast caus'd men ride o'er our heads; + and though that we did pass + Through fire and water, yet thou brought'st + us to a wealthy place. + + I'll bring burnt-off'rings to thy house; + to thee my vows I'll pay, + Which my lips uttered, my mouth spake, + when trouble on me lay. + + Burnt-sacrifices of fat rams + with incense I will bring; + Of bullocks and of goats I will + present an offering. + + All that fear God, come, hear, I'll tell + what he did for my soul. + I with my mouth unto him cried, + my tongue did him extol. + + If in my heart I sin regard, + the Lord me will not hear: + But surely God me heard, and to + my prayèr's voice gave ear. + + O let the Lord, our gracious God, + for ever blessèd be, + Who turnèd not my pray'r from him, + nor yet his grace from me. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + In this psalm of thanksgiving, in which the fate of Israel is to be + considered as typical of that of the gospel church and people of God, + we have, (1.) David, as the messenger of God, calling all the nations + of mankind to praise God for the manifestation of his sovereign + dominion in his works, so wonderful in themselves, terrible to his + enemies, comfortable to his people, and commanding and awful to all + men, ver. 1-7; and for trying his people with afflictions, for + supporting under them, protecting amidst them, and delivering from + them at last, ver. 8-12. (2.) David, as the servant of God, + exemplifying his own exhortations in honouring God, by costly + oblations, and by thankful declarations of what God had done for his + soul, particularly in answer to his prayers, ver. 13-20. + + - number: 67 + suggested_tunes: + - Crediton + metre: S.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Lord, bless and pity us, + shine on us with thy face: + That th' earth thy way, and nations all + may know thy saving grace. + + Let people praise thee, Lord; + let people all thee praise. + O let the nätions be glad, + in songs their voices raise: + + Thou 'lt justly people judge, + on earth rule nations all. + Let people praise thee, Lord; let them + praise thee, both great and small. + + The earth her fruit shall yield, + our God shall blessing send. + God shall us bless; men shall him fear + unto earth's utmost end. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + In this psalm of thanksgiving, in which the fate of Israel is to be + considered as typical of that of the gospel church and people of God, + we have, (1.) David, as the messenger of God, calling all the nations + of mankind to praise God for the manifestation of his sovereign + dominion in his works, so wonderful in themselves, terrible to his + enemies, comfortable to his people, and commanding and awful to all + men, ver. 1-7; and for trying his people with afflictions, for + supporting under them, protecting amidst them, and delivering from + them at last, ver. 8-12. (2.) David, as the servant of God, + exemplifying his own exhortations in honouring God, by costly + oblations, and by thankful declarations of what God had done for his + soul, particularly in answer to his prayers, ver. 13-20. + + - number: 67 + suggested_tunes: + - Crediton + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: true + text: | + Lord, unto us be merciful, + do thou us also bless; + And graciously cause shine on us + the brightness of thy face: + + That so thy way upon the earth + to all men may be known; + Also among the nations all + thy saving health be shown. + + O let the people praise thee, Lord; + let people all thee praise. + O let the nätions be glad, + and sing for joy always: + + For rightly thou shalt people judge, + and nations rule on earth. + Let people praise thee, Lord; let all + the folk praise thee with mirth. + + Then shall the earth yield her increase; + God, our God, bless us shall. + God shall us bless; and of the earth + the ends shall fear him all. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Here we have, (1.) David's prayer for the church of Israel, ver. 1. + (2.) His supplication for the comforting, and praise-producing spread + of the gospel among the Gentiles, ver. 2-5. (3.) His believing + prospect of the divine blessings, and true piety, which should attend + the same, ver.6-7.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me request the + salvation of Israel. Let me supplicate the gathering of the nations to + Shiloh. Let me praise the Lord, that already this great work is begun; + and that the Lord, who is mighty, shall finish it in his time. + + - number: 68 + suggested_tunes: + - Richmond + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Let God arise, and scatterèd + let all his en'mies be; + And let all those that do him hate + before his presence flee. + + As smoke is driv'n, so drive thou them; + as fire melts wax away, + Before God's face let wicked men + so perish and decay. + + But let the rïghteous be glad: + let them before God's sight + Be very joyful; yea, let them + rejoice with all their might. + + To God sing, to his name sing praise; + extol him with your voice, + That rides on heav'n, by his name Jah, + before his face rejoice. + + Because the Lord a father is + unto the fatherless; + God is the widow's judge, within + his place of holiness. + + God doth the solitary set + in fam'lies: and from bands + The chained doth free; but rebels do + inhabit parchèd lands. + + O God, what time thou didst go forth + before thy people's face; + And when through the great wilderness + thy glorious marching was; + + Then at God's presence shook the earth, + then drops from heaven fell; + This Sinai shook before the Lord, + the God of Israel. + + O God, thou to thine heritage + didst send a plenteous rain, + Whereby thou, when it weary was, + didst it refresh again. + + Thy congregation then did make + their habitation there: + Of thine own goodness for the poor, + O God, thou didst prepare. + + The Lord himself did give the word, + the word abroad did spread; + Great was the company of them + the same who publishèd. + + Kings of great armies foilèd were, + and forced to flee away; + And women, who remained at home, + did distribute the prey. + + Though ye have lain among the pots, + like doves ye shall appear, + Whose wings with silver, and with gold + whose feathers covered are. + + When there th' Almighty scattered kings, + like Salmon's snow 'twas white. + God's hill is like to Bashan hill, + like Bashan hill for height. + + Why do ye leap, ye mountains high? + this is the hill where God + Desires to dwell; yea, God in it + for aye will make abode. + + God's chariots twenty thousand are, + thousands of angels strong; + In 's holy place God is, as in + mount Sinai, them among. + + Thou hast, O Lord, most glorious, + ascended up on high; + And in triumph victorious led + captive captivity: + + Thou hast receivèd gifts for men, + for such as did rebel; + Yea, ev'n for them, that God the LORD + in midst of them might dwell. + + Bless'd be the Lord, who is to us + of our salvation God; + Who daily with his benefits + us plenteously doth load. + + He of salvation is the God, + who is our God most strong; + And unto GOD the Lord from death + the issues do belong. + + But surely God shall wound the head + of those that are his foes; + The hairy scalp of him that still + on in his trespass goes. + + God said, My people I will bring + again from Bashan hill; + Yea, from the sea's devouring depths + them bring again I will; + + That in the blood of enemies + thy foot imbrued may be, + And of thy dogs dipped in the same + the tongues thou mayest see. + + Thy goings they have seen, O God; + the steps of majesty + Of my God, and my mighty King, + within the sanctuary. + + Before went singers, players next + on instruments took way; + And them among the damsels were + that did on timbrels play. + + Within the congregätions + bless God with one accord: + From Isr'el's fountain do ye bless + and praise the mighty Lord. + + With their prince, little Benjamin, + princes and council there + Of Judah were, there Zabulon's + and Napht'li's princes were. + + Thy God commands thy strength; make strong + what thou wrought'st for us, Lord. + For thy house at Jerusalem + kings shall thee gifts afford. + + The spearmen's host, the multitude + of bulls, which fiercely look, + Those calves which people have forth sent, + O Lord our God, rebuke, + + Till everyone submit himself, + and silver pieces bring: + The people that delight in war + disperse, O God and King. + + Those that be princes great shall then + come out of Egypt lands; + And Ethiopia to God + shall soon stretch out her hands. + + O all ye kingdoms of the earth, + sing praises to this King; + For he is Lord that ruleth all, + unto him praises sing. + + To him that rides on heav'ns of heav'ns, + which he of old did found; + Lo, he sends out his voice, a voice + in might that doth abound. + + Strength unto God do ye ascribe; + for his excellency + Is over Israèl, his strength + is in the clouds most high. + + Thou 'rt from thy temple dreadful, Lord; + Isr'el's own God is he, + Who gives his people strength and pow'r: + O let God blessèd be. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Perhaps this psalm was composed on the same occasion as the 24th and + 47th, when David brought up the ark of God to that tabernacle, which + he had pitched for it in Zion, 2 Sam. 6. We have in it, (1.) Fervent + supplications that God would scatter and defeat the projects of his + enemies, ver. 1-2. (2.) High praises to God for his infinite greatness + and grace; his righteous relieving of the afflicted and oppressed; his + directing of Israel in the Arabian desert; his manifesting of his + glory at Sinai; his comfortable providing for his people in the + wilderness, and in Canaan, ver. 3-10; and for his easy conquest of + their Canaanitish enemies; his fixing his temple on mount Zion; for + the ascension of Christ to glory, to receive gifts for men; and for + the spread of the gospel among Jews and Gentiles, by means of the + apostles; while the obstinate Jews are severely punished, ver. 11-32; + and, in fine, for his superior dominion; his awful majesty; his mighty + power; for the glory of his sanctuary, and the grace he bestows upon + his people, ver. 33-35.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me behold, let + me admire, what God is, and hath done for, and to my soul, and to the + church of God, of which I am a member. Let me behold what God hath + done, in instances unnumbered, in prosecution of the covenant he made + with his eternal Son. + + - number: 69 + suggested_tunes: + - Stornoway + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Save me, O God, because the floods + do so environ me, + That ev'n unto my very soul + come in the waters be. + + I downward in deep mire do sink, + where standing there is none: + I am into deep waters come, + where floods have o'er me gone. + + I weary with my crying am, + my throat is also dried; + Mine eyes do fail, while for my God + I waiting do abide. + + Those men that do without a cause + bear hatred unto me, + Than are the hairs upon my head + in number more they be: + + They that would me destroy, and are + mine en'mies wrongfully, + Are mighty: so what I took not, + to render forced was I. + + Lord, thou my folly know'st, my sins + not covered are from thee. + Let none that wait on thee be shamed, + Lord God of hosts, for me. + + O Lord, the God of Israel, + let none, who search do make, + And seek thee, be at any time + confounded for my sake. + + For I have borne reproach for thee, + my face is hid with shame. + To brethren strange, to mother's sons + an alien I became. + + Because the zeal did eat me up, + which to thine house I bear; + And the reproaches cast at thee, + upon me fallen are. + + My tears and fasts, t' afflict my soul, + were turnèd to my shame. + When sackcloth I did wear, to them + a proverb I became. + + The men that in the gate do sit + against me evil spake; + They also that vile drunkards were + of me their song did make. + + But, in an acceptàble time, + my pray'r, LORD, is to thee: + In truth of thy salvation, Lord, + and mercy great, hear me. + + Deliver me out of the mire, + from sinking do me keep; + Free me from those that do me hate, + and from the waters deep. + + Let not the flood on me prevail, + whose water overflows; + Nor deep me swallow, nor the pit + her mouth upon me close. + + Hear me, O LORD, because thy love + and kindness is most good; + Turn unto me, according to + thy mercies' multitude. + + Nor from thy servant hide thy face: + I'm troubled, soon attend. + Draw near my soul, and it redeem; + me from my foes defend. + + To thee is my reproach well known, + my shame, and my disgrace: + Those that mine adversaries be + are all before thy face. + + Reproach hath broke my heart; I'm full + of grief: I looked for one + To pity me, but none I found; + comforters found I none. + + They also bitter gall did give + unto me for my meat: + They gave me vinegar to drink, + when as my thirst was great. + + Before them let their table prove + a snare; and do thou make + Their welfare and prosperity + a trap themselves to take. + + Let thou their eyes so darkened be, + that sight may them forsake; + And let their loins be made by thee + continually to shake. + + Thy fury pour thou out on them, + and indignätion; + And let thy wrathful anger, Lord, + fast hold take them upon. + + All waste and desolate let be + their habitätion; + And in their tabernacles all + inhabitants be none. + + Because him they do persecute, + whom thou didst smite before; + They talk unto the grief of those + whom thou hast wounded sore. + + Add thou iniquity unto + their former wickedness; + And do not let them come at all + into thy righteousness. + + Out of the book of life let them + be razed and blotted quite; + Among the just and rïghteous + let not their names be writ. + + But now become exceeding poor + and sorrowful am I: + By thy salvation, O my God, + let me be set on high. + + The name of God I with a song + most cheerfully will praise; + And I, in giving thanks to him, + his name shall highly raise. + + This to the LORD a sacrifice + more gräcious shall prove + Than bullock, ox, or any beast + that hath both horn and hoof. + + When this the humble men shall see, + it joy to them shall give: + O all ye that do seek the Lord, + your hearts shall ever live. + + For GOD the poor hears, and will not + his prisoners contemn. + Let heav'n, and earth, and seas, him praise, + and all that move in them. + + For God will Judah's cities build, + and he will Zion save, + That they may dwell therein, and it + in sure possession have. + + And they that are his servants' seed + inherit shall the same; + So shall they have their dwelling there + that love his blessèd name. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is much like the 22nd, representing at once the troubles of + David and of David's Lord, and the glories which followed. We have in + it, (1.) Bitter complaints of long and sore troubles; of the malice + and multitude of enemies; of the unkindness of friends; of general + contempt: and these mingled with candid acknowledgments of guilt, and + with supplications for God's gracious audience and merciful + deliverance, ver. 1-13. (2.) Pleas insisted on, in these + supplications, viz. the mercy and truth of God; the psalmist's own + great distress; the insolence and cruelty of his enemies; and the + unkindness of his friends, ver. 14-21. (3.) Predictions of the ruin of + David's, and especially of Christ's Jewish enemies; importing that + their sacrifices and their common food should be cursed to them; that + they should be plagued with judicial blindness and wrathful disquiet; + that they should be rendered public monuments of the vengeance of God, + having their church and state quite unhinged, and their land + desolated; and, in fine, that their ruin should be increasing, and + their recovery almost impossible, ver. 22-28. (4.) Under a deep sense + of his poverty and distress, David, and his divine Son, celebrate the + high praises of God, and call others to praise him for the + deliverances of Israel; but chiefly for the erection of the gospel + church, and for the certain, though still future recalling of the Jews + into the same, ver. 29-36.<br/><br/><br>While I sing, let me behold my + Redeemer, charged in law with my sins, and bearing the punishment + thereof. Let me learn with patience to run the race of holy obedience + and of necessary trials set before me, looking to Jesus as my pattern, + and as the author and finisher of my faith. While I behold the + tremendous severity of God's judgments against his ancient people, for + rejecting and murdering his Son, let me not be high -minded, but fear. + Let me behold the grace of our Lord Jesus, who, though he was rich, + yet for our sakes he became poor; that we through his poverty might be + made rich. And let me be a living and lively member of that church + which is founded in his blood, and blessed in him with all spiritual + blessings. + + - number: 70 + suggested_tunes: + - Dundee + - Kilmarnock + metre: S.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Lord, haste me to deliver; + with speed, LORD, succour me. + Let them that for my soul do seek + shamed and confounded be: + + Turned back be they, and shamed, + that in my hurt delight. + Turned back be they, Ha, ha! that say, + their shaming to requite. + + In thee let all be glad, + and joy that seek for thee: + Let them who thy salvation love + say still, God praisèd be. + + I poor and needy am; + come, Lord, and make no stay: + My help thou and deliv'rer art; + O LORD, make no delay. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is much like the 22nd, representing at once the troubles of + David and of David's Lord, and the glories which followed. We have in + it, (1.) Bitter complaints of long and sore troubles; of the malice + and multitude of enemies; of the unkindness of friends; of general + contempt: and these mingled with candid acknowledgments of guilt, and + with supplications for God's gracious audience and merciful + deliverance, ver. 1-13. (2.) Pleas insisted on, in these + supplications, viz. the mercy and truth of God; the psalmist's own + great distress; the insolence and cruelty of his enemies; and the + unkindness of his friends, ver. 14-21. (3.) Predictions of the ruin of + David's, and especially of Christ's Jewish enemies; importing that + their sacrifices and their common food should be cursed to them; that + they should be plagued with judicial blindness and wrathful disquiet; + that they should be rendered public monuments of the vengeance of God, + having their church and state quite unhinged, and their land + desolated; and, in fine, that their ruin should be increasing, and + their recovery almost impossible, ver. 22-28. (4.) Under a deep sense + of his poverty and distress, David, and his divine Son, celebrate the + high praises of God, and call others to praise him for the + deliverances of Israel; but chiefly for the erection of the gospel + church, and for the certain, though still future recalling of the Jews + into the same, ver. 29-36.<br/><br/><br>While I sing, let me behold my + Redeemer, charged in law with my sins, and bearing the punishment + thereof. Let me learn with patience to run the race of holy obedience + and of necessary trials set before me, looking to Jesus as my pattern, + and as the author and finisher of my faith. While I behold the + tremendous severity of God's judgments against his ancient people, for + rejecting and murdering his Son, let me not be high -minded, but fear. + Let me behold the grace of our Lord Jesus, who, though he was rich, + yet for our sakes he became poor; that we through his poverty might be + made rich. And let me be a living and lively member of that church + which is founded in his blood, and blessed in him with all spiritual + blessings. + + - number: 70 + suggested_tunes: + - Dundee + - Kilmarnock + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: true + text: | + Make haste, O God, me to preserve; + with speed, LORD, succour me. + Let them that for my soul do seek + shamed and confounded be: + + Let them be turnèd back, and shamed, + that in my hurt delight. + Turned back be they, Ha, ha! that say, + their shaming to requite. + + O Lord, in thee let all be glad, + and joy that seek for thee: + Let them who thy salvation love + say still, God praisèd be. + + But I both poor and needy am; + come, Lord, and make no stay: + My help thou and deliv'rer art; + O LORD, make no delay. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is much the same as the five last verses of the 40th. In it + David prays, (1.) For divine help to himself, ver. 1, 5. (2.) For + shame and confusion to his enemies, ver. 2-3. (3.) For joy and comfort + to his friends, ver. 4.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me apply it to + my own troubled circum stances, and so in a believing manner, bring + them and the sinful causes thereof, to my remembrance. + + - number: 71 + suggested_tunes: + - Walsall + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O LORD, my hope and confidence + is placed in thee alone; + Then let thy servant never be + put to confüsion. + + And let me, in thy righteousness, + from thee deliv'rance have; + Cause me escape, incline thine ear + unto me, and me save. + + Be thou my dwelling-rock, to which + I ever may resort: + Thou gav'st commandment me to save, + for thou'rt my rock and fort. + + Free me, my God, from wicked hands, + hands cruel and unjust: + For thou, O Lord GOD, art my hope, + and from my youth my trust. + + Thou from the womb didst hold me up; + thou art the same that me + Out of my mother's bowels took; + I ever will praise thee. + + To many I a wonder am; + but thou'rt my refuge strong. + Filled let my mouth be with thy praise + and honour all day long. + + O do not cast me off, when as + old age doth overtake me; + And when my strength decayèd is, + then do not thou forsake me. + + For those that are mine enemies + against me speak with hate; + And they together counsel take + that for my soul lay wait. + + They said, God leaves him; him pursue + and take: none will him save. + Be thou not far from me, my God: + thy speedy help I crave. + + Confound, consume them, that unto + my soul are enemies: + Clothed be they with reproach and shame + that do my hurt devise. + + But I with expectätion + will hope continually; + And yet with praises more and more + I will thee magnify. + + Thy justice and salvätion + my mouth abroad shall show, + Ev'n all the day; for I thereof + the numbers do not know. + + And I will constantly go on + in strength of GOD the Lord; + And thine own righteousness, ev'n thine + alone, I will record. + + For even from my youth, O God, + by thee I have been taught; + And hitherto I have declared + the wonders thou hast wrought. + + And now, Lord, leave me not, when I + old and grey-headed grow: + Till to this age thy strength and pow'r + to all to come I show. + + And thy most perfect righteousness, + O Lord, is very high, + Who has so great things done: O God, + who is like unto thee? + + Thou, Lord, who great adversities, + and sore, to me didst show, + Shalt quicken, and bring me again + from depths of earth below. + + My greatness and my pow'r thou wilt + increase, and far extend: + On ev'ry side against all grief + thou wilt me comfort send. + + Thee, ev'n thy truth, I'll also praise, + my God, with psaltery: + Thou Holy One of Israel, + with harp I'll sing to thee. + + My lips shall much rejoice in thee, + when I thy praises sound; + My soul, which thou redeemèd hast, + in joy shall much abound. + + My tongue thy justice shall proclaim, + continuing all day long; + For they confounded are, and shamed, + that seek to do me wrong. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably penned on the occasion of Absalom's rebellion, + as Psalm 3rd, 42nd, 43rd; or of Sheba's conspiracy, 2 Sam. 20. It + contains, (1.) David's firm confidence in God, encouraged by manifold + experiences of his gracious kindness, ver. 1, 3, 5-7. (2.) His fervent + prayers that he might never be ashamed, but might be delivered; might + find rest in God; might have constant matter of new praises and + thanksgivings afforded him; might not be forsaken of God in his old + age; and might have his numerous, powerful, and crafty enemies, + confounded with shame and perplexity, ver. 1-13, 18. (3.) His + confident and joyful expectations of God's further kindness, + particularly that God would never forsake, but revive him; that he + would increase his honour and comfort, and put his enemies to shame: + Along with which he resolves, with admiring rapture, to extol God's + righteousness and salvation, and his new-covenant relation to himself, + and to Israel, ver. 14-24.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me be + affected with my troubles. Let me never stagger at the promise through + unbelief, but be strong in the faith, giving glory to God. + + - number: 72 + suggested_tunes: + - Praetorius + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O Lord, thy judgments give the king, + his son thy righteousness. + With right he shall thy people judge, + thy poor with uprightness. + + The lofty mountains shall bring forth + unto the people peace; + Likewise the little hills the same + shall do by righteousness. + + The people's poor ones he shall judge, + the needy's children save; + And those shall he in pieces break + who them oppressèd have. + + They shall thee fear, while sun and moon + do last, through ages all. + Like rain on mown grass he shall drop, + or show'rs on earth that fall. + + The just shall flourish in his days, + and prosper in his reign: + He shall, while doth the moon endure, + abundant peace maintain. + + His large and great dominion shall + from sea to sea extend: + It from the river shall reach forth + unto earth's utmost end. + + They in the wilderness that dwell + bow down before him must; + And they that are his enemies + shall lick the very dust. + + The kings of Tarshish, and the isles, + to him shall presents bring; + And unto him shall offer gifts + Sheba's and Seba's king. + + Yea, all the mighty kings on earth + before him down shall fall; + And all the nations of the world + do service to him shall. + + For he the needy shall preserve, + when he to him doth call; + The poor also, and him that hath + no help of man at all. + + The poor man and the indigent + in mercy he shall spare; + He shall preserve alive the souls + of those that needy are. + + Both from deceit and violence + their soul he shall set free; + And in his sight right prëcious + and dear their blood shall be. + + Yea, he shall live, and giv'n to him + shall be of Sheba's gold: + For him still shall they pray, and he + shall daily be extolled. + + Of corn an handful in the earth + on tops of mountains high, + With prosp'rous fruit shall shake, like trees + on Lebanon that be. + + The city shall be flourishing, + her citizens abound + In number shall, like to the grass + that grows upon the ground. + + His name for ever shall endure; + last like the sun it shall: + Men shall be blessed in him, and blessed + all nations shall him call. + + Now blessèd be the LORD our God, + the God of Israel, + For he alone doth wondrous works, + in glory that excel. + + And blessèd be his glorious name + to all eternity: + The whole earth let his glory fill. + Amen, so let it be. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was composed by David, about the time of Solomon's + instalment in the throne of Israel, 1 Kings 1 and 2. With respect to + him, here is, (1.) Fervent prayer for proper qualifications to furnish + him for government, ver. 1. (2.) Predictions of the peace, glory, + extent, wealth, duration and happiness of his government, ver. 2-17. + (3.) Praise to the God of Israel for his mercies to his people, ver. + 18-19. But as our Redeemer is principally intended, we have concerning + him, (1.) His being furnished with the Holy Ghost above measure, to + qualify him for his work, ver. 1. (2.) The glories of his government; + how righteous, how prudent, how orderly, how condescending and + merciful! how destructive to oppressors, how efficaciously productive + to real religion, and how comfortable to his faithful subjects his + administrations are! ver. 2-9. How extensive his church, among all + ranks and nations; how tender his care of the meanest of his subjects; + how much he is revered and adored by them; how astonishing their + increase, by means of his gospel truth preached; and how permanent and + useful his government! ver. 10-17. (3.) A solemn ascription of all the + praise of these wonderful works to God alone, with an earnest request + and believing expectation, that his glory shall fill the whole earth, + ver. 18-19.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing these lofty notes of the dying + psalmist, let me admire, let me adore, let me sing praises to Jesus my + King. Let me rejoice in his highness and in his extensive usefulness + to men. + + - number: 73 + suggested_tunes: + - Kilmarnock + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Yet God is good to Israel, + to each pure-hearted one. + But as for me, my steps near slipped, + my feet were almost gone. + + For I envìous was, and grudged + the foolish folk to see, + When I perceived the wicked sort + enjoy prosperity. + + For still their strength continueth firm; + their death of bands is free. + They are not toiled like other men, + nor plagued, as others be. + + Therefore their pride, like to a chain, + them compasseth about; + And, as a garment, violence + doth cover them throughout. + + Their eyes stand out with fat; they have + more than their hearts could wish. + They are corrupt; their talk of wrong + both lewd and lofty is. + + They set their mouth against the heav'ns + in their blasphemous talk; + And their reproaching tongue throughout + the earth at large doth walk. + + His people oftentimes for this + look back, and turn about; + Sith waters of so full a cup + to these are pourèd out. + + And thus they say, How can it be + that God these things doth know? + Or, Can there in the Highest be + knowledge of things below? + + Behold, these are the wicked ones, + yet prosper at their will + In worldly things; they do increase + in wealth and riches still. + + I verily have done in vain + my heart to purify; + To no effect in innocence + washèd my hands have I. + + For daily, and all day throughout, + great plagues I suffered have; + Yea, ev'ry morning I of new + did chastisement receive. + + If in this manner foolishly + to speak I would intend, + Thy children's generätion, + behold, I should offend. + + When I this thought to know, it was + too hard a thing for me; + Till to God's sanctuary I went, + then I their end did see. + + Assuredly thou didst them set + a slipp'ry place upon; + Them suddenly thou castedst down + into destrüction. + + How in a moment suddenly + to ruin brought are they! + With fearful terrors utterly + they are consumed away. + + Ev'n like unto a dream, when one + from sleeping doth arise; + So thou, O Lord, when thou awak'st, + their image shalt despise. + + Thus grievèd was my heart in me, + and me my reins oppressed: + So rude was I, and ignorant, + and in thy sight a beast. + + Nevertheless continually, + O Lord, I am with thee: + Thou dost me hold by my right hand, + and still upholdest me. + + Thou, with thy counsel, while I live, + wilt me conduct and guide; + And to thy glory afterward + receive me to abide. + + Whom have I in the heavens high + but thee, O Lord, alone? + And in the earth whom I desire + besides thee there is none. + + My flesh and heart doth faint and fail, + but God doth fail me never: + For of my heart God is the strength + and pörtion for ever. + + For, lo, they that are far from thee + for ever perish shall; + Them that a whoring from thee go + thou hast destroyèd all. + + But surely it is good for me + that I draw near to God: + In GOD I trust, that all thy works + I may declare abroad. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm, and the ten following, are called Psalms of Asaph; but + whether because he composed most of them, or because he led the music + in singing them, is not altogether certain. Here we have, (1.) The + great foundation of all religion, viz. the goodness of God to his + people, strongly asserted, ver. 1. (2.) The psalmist's faith fearfully + shaken by the consideration of the freedom, prosperity, plenty, and + peaceful-like death of the wicked; which rendered them proud, + oppressive, insolent, atheistical, and profane; while himself was in a + manner consigned to nothing but trouble, ver. 2-13. (3.) The + temptation, when it had reduced him to the brink of atheism, is + broken, by a discovery of the connected purposes and providences of + God in his word and ordinances, ver. 14-20. (4.) His improvement of + his fall and recovery, to promote a deep sense of his own meanness, + ignorance, and folly; a complete dependence on God as his guide; a + cleaving to him as his portion, infinitely preferable to every thing + else; without whom one is necessarily miserable, and in the enjoyment + of whom he is assured of happiness, and excited to praise and + thanksgiving, ver. 21-28.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me remember + my own wickedness and folly; and let me receive instruction in duty. + Let me cleave to God as my portion, and resolve to draw my light and + comfort from the oracles of his mouth, and ordinances of his grace. + + - number: 74 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Kilda + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O God, why hast thou cast us off? + is it for evermore? + Against thy pasture-sheep why doth + thine anger smoke so sore? + + O call to thy rememberance + thy congregätion, + Which thou hast purchasèd of old; + still think the same upon: + + The rod of thine inheritance, + which thou redeemèd hast, + This Zion hill, wherein thou hadst + thy dwelling in times past. + + To these long desolätions + thy feet lift, do not tarry; + For all the ills thy foes have done + within thy sanctuary. + + Amidst thy congregätions + thine enemies do roar: + Their ensigns they set up for signs + of triumph thee before. + + A man was famous, and was had + in estimätion, + According as he lifted up + his axe thick trees upon. + + But all at once with axes now + and hammers they go to, + And down the carvèd work thereof + they break, and quite undo. + + They firèd have thy sanctuary, + and have defiled the same, + By casting down unto the ground + the place where dwelt thy name. + + Thus said they in their hearts, Let us + destroy them out of hand: + They burnt up all the synagogues + of God within the land. + + Our signs we do not now behold; + there is not us among + A prophet more, nor any one + that knows the time how long. + + How long, Lord, shall the enemy + thus in reproach exclaim? + And shall the adversary thus + always blaspheme thy name? + + Thy hand, ev'n thy right hand of might, + why dost thou thus draw back? + O from thy bosom pluck it out + for our deliv'rance' sake. + + For certainly God is my King, + ev'n from the times of old, + Working in midst of all the earth + salvation manifold. + + The sea, by thy great pow'r, to part + asunder thou didst make; + And thou the dragons' heads, O Lord, + within the waters brake. + + The leviathan's head thou brak'st + in pieces, and didst give + Him to be meat unto the folk + in wilderness that live. + + Thou clav'st the fountain and the flood, + which did with streams abound: + Thou dri'dst the mighty waters up + unto the very ground. + + Thine only is the day, O Lord, + thine also is the night; + And thou alone preparèd hast + the sun and shining light. + + By thee the borders of the earth + were settled everywhere: + The summer and the winter both + by thee created were. + + That th' enemy reproachèd hath, + O keep it in record; + And that the foolish people have + blasphemed thy name, O LORD. + + Unto the multitude do not + thy turtle's soul deliver: + The congregation of thy poor + do not forget for ever. + + Unto thy cov'nant have respect; + for earth's dark places be + Full of the habitätions + of horrid cruelty. + + O let not those that be oppressed + return again with shame: + Let those that poor and needy are + give praise unto thy name. + + Do thou, O God, arise and plead + the cause that is thine own: + Remember how thou art reproached + still by the foolish one. + + Do not forget the voice of those + that are thine enemies: + Of those the tumult ever grows + that do against thee rise. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm relates to the destruction of the city and temple of + Jerusalem by the Chaldeans, or to some similar disaster. In it we + have, (1.) The church's bitter complaints of God's displeasure; of the + outrage of her enemies; and of the apparent hopelessness of her case, + ver. 1-11. (2.) Strong and heart-encouraging pleadings with God, upon + the account of his relation to his people, and of the great things he + had done for them, and that he was at once their God and the God of + nature; that therefore he would remember to execute just vengeance + upon his sworn enemies, and grant help and relief to his covenant + people, ver. 12-23.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing this, let me admire the + sovereignty and holiness of God, in so severely correcting his own + people. And let the broken, the deserted condition of the church, in + this land, deeply affect my heart, and excite my earnest prayers for + her restoration. + + - number: 75 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + To thee, O God, do we give thanks, + we do give thanks to thee; + Because thy wondrous works declare + thy great name near to be. + + I purpose, when I shall receive + the congregätion, + That I shall judgment uprightly + render to everyone. + + Dissolvèd is the land, with all + that in the same do dwell; + But I the pillars thereof do + bear up, and stablish well. + + I to the foolish people said, + Do not deal foolishly; + And unto those that wicked are, + Lift not your horn on high. + + Lift not your horn on high, nor speak + with stubborn neck. But know, + That not from east, nor west, nor south, + promötion doth flow. + + But God is judge; he puts down one, + and sets another up. + For in the hand of GOD most high + of red wine is a cup: + + 'Tis full of mixture, he pours forth, + and makes the wicked all + Wring out the bitter dregs thereof; + yea, and they drink them shall. + + But I for ever will declare, + I Jacob's God will praise. + All horns of lewd men I'll cut off; + but just men's horns will raise. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Here, (1.) David returns thanks to God for advancing him to the throne + of Israel, and resolves to act for the public welfare, ver. 1-3, 9-10. + (2.) He rebukes the insolence of such as opposed his advancement, + which sprung from the sovereign disposal of God, the judge of the + world, and denounceth their destruction, ver. 4-8.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let me think of Jesus, whom God hath crowned with glory and + honour, and of the infinite danger of opposing his government. And if + he exalt me to the spiritual honours of his kingdom, let it be my care + to glorify him, and to profit his people. + + - number: 76 + suggested_tunes: + - Martyrs + - York + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + In Judah's land God is well known, + his name 's in Isr'el great: + In Salem is his tabernacle, + in Zion is his seat. + + There arrows of the bow he brake, + the shield, the sword, the war. + More glorious thou than hills of prey, + more excellent art far. + + Those that were stout of heart are spoiled, + they slept their sleep outright; + And none of those their hands did find, + that were the men of might. + + When thy rebuke, O Jacob's God, + had forth against them past, + Their horses and their chariots both + were in a deep sleep cast. + + Thou, Lord, ev'n thou art he that should + be feared; and who is he + That may stand up before thy sight, + if once thou angry be? + + From heav'n thou judgment caused be heard; + the earth was still with fear, + When God to judgment rose, to save + all meek on earth that were. + + Surely the very wrath of man + unto thy praise redounds: + Thou to the remnant of his wrath + wilt set restraining bounds. + + Vow to the LORD your God, and pay: + all ye that near him be, + Bring gifts and presents unto him; + for to be feared is he. + + By him the spirits shall be cut off + of those that princes are: + Unto the kings that are on earth + he fearful doth appear. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is like to the 48th, and was penned on occasion of some + remarkable victory; but whether in the days of David, Asa, + Jehoshaphat, or Hezekiah (2 Chron. 14, 20, 32), is uncertain. We have + in it, (1.) Encouraging congratulations of the church's happiness, in + having God so manifested in her, and so near unto her; and in having + his power so employed in her behalf, to the advancement of his own + glory, and the destruction of her enemies, ver. 1-6. (2.) Important + instructions how to improve this victory, to the terror of enemies, + the comfort of saints, and the excitement of all to vow to God, and to + obey and revere him, ver. 7-12.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing this psalm, + let my soul bless the Lord, that my lot hath been always cast in a + land of gospel light. Let me, with thankful heart, remember what he + hath done for this church and land; and give him the praise of every + deliverance. Let me never fear the rage of men; but in every danger + and doubt commit my way to God, that he may bring it to pass. + + - number: 77 + suggested_tunes: + - Stracathro + - St. Mary + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Unto the Lord I with my voice, + I unto God did cry; + Ev'n with my voice, and unto me + his ear he did apply. + + I in my trouble sought the Lord, + my sore by night did run, + And ceasèd not; my grievèd soul + did consolation shun. + + I to remembrance God did call, + yet trouble did remain; + And overwhelmed my spirit was, + whilst I did sore complain. + + Mine eyes, debarred from rest and sleep, + thou makest still to wake; + My trouble is so great that I + unable am to speak. + + The days of old to mind I called, + and oft did think upon + The times and ages that are past + full many years agone. + + By night my song I call to mind, + and commune with my heart; + My spirit did carefully enquire + how I might ease my smart. + + For ever will the Lord cast off, + and gracious be no more? + For ever is his mercy gone? + fails his word evermore? + + Is 't true that to be gräcious + the Lord forgotten hath? + And that his tender mercies he + hath shut up in his wrath? + + Then did I say, That surely this + is mine infirmity: + I'll mind the years of the right hand + of him that is most High. + + Yea, I remember will the works + performèd by the LORD: + The wonders done of old by thee + I surely will record. + + I also will of all thy works + my meditation make; + And of thy doings to discourse + great pleasure I will take. + + O God, thy way most holy is + within thy sanctuary; + And what God is so great in pow'r + as is our God most high? + + Thou art the God that wonders do'st + by thy right hand most strong: + Thy mighty pow'r thou hast declared + the nätions among. + + To thine own people with thine arm + thou didst redemption bring; + To Jacob's sons, and to the tribes + of Joseph that do spring. + + The waters, Lord, perceivèd thee, + the waters saw thee well; + And they for fear aside did flee; + the depths on trembling fell. + + The clouds in water forth were poured, + sound loudly did the sky; + And swiftly through the world abroad + thine arrows fierce did fly. + + Thy thunder's voice alongst the heav'n + a mighty noise did make; + By lightnings lighten'd was the world, + th' earth tremble did and shake. + + Thy way is in the sea, and in + the waters great thy path; + Yet are thy footsteps hid, O Lord; + none knowledge thereof hath. + + Thy people thou didst safely lead, + like to a flock of sheep; + By Moses' hand and Aaron's thou + didst them conduct and keep. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm relates to, (1.) A most afflicted case, in which are + remarkable, fervent, and incessant prayers, agonizing restlessness, + heart-overwhelming meditations, melancholy fears, and almost desperate + outcries, concerning God, ver. 1-9. (2.) The effectual cure of this + mournful case, by serious meditation on, and solemn acknowledgment of + the power, greatness, and grace of God, as our God; and of the + holiness and mysteriousness of his providential conduct; particularly + in bringing Israel out of Egypt, and leading them through the + wilderness, to the promised land, ver. 10-20.<br/><br/><br/>While I + sing, let me stand in awe of that God, who so chastiseth his favourite + saints. Let me sympathize with men of wounded spirits. If my soul is + overwhelmed within me, let me call to mind the gracious character, and + great works of my God, for his church, or for my soul. + + - number: 78 + suggested_tunes: + - Bedford + - Caithness + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Attend, my people, to my law; + thereto give thou an ear; + The words that from my mouth proceed + attentively do hear. + + My mouth shall speak a parable, + and sayings dark of old; + The same which we have heard and known, + and us our fathers told. + + We also will them not conceal + from their posterity; + Them to the generätion + to come declare will we: + + The praises of the LORD our God, + and his almighty strength, + The wondrous works that he hath done, + we will show forth at length. + + His testimony and his law + in Isr'el he did place, + And charged our fathers it to show + to their succeeding race; + + That so the race which was to come + might well them learn and know; + And sons unborn, who should arise, + might to their sons them show: + + That they might set their hope in God, + and suffer not to fall + His mighty works out of their mind, + but keep his precepts all: + + And might not, like their fathers, be + a stiff rebellious race; + A race not right in heart; with God + whose spirit not stedfast was. + + The sons of Ephraim, who nor bows + nor other arms did lack, + When as the day of battle was, + they faintly turnèd back. + + They brake God's cov'nant, and refused + in his commands to go; + His works and wonders they forgot, + which he to them did show. + + Things marvellous he brought to pass; + their fathers them beheld + Within the land of Egypt done, + yea, ev'n in Zoàn's field. + + By him divided was the sea, + he caused them through to pass; + And made the waters so to stand, + as like an heap it was. + + With cloud by day, with light of fire + all night, he did them guide. + In desert rocks he clave, and drink, + as from great depths, supplied. + + He from the rock brought streams, like floods + made waters to run down. + Yet sinning more, in desert they + provoked the Highest One. + + For in their heart they tempted God, + and, speaking with mistrust, + They greedily did meat require + to satisfy their lust. + + Against the Lord himself they spake, + and, murmuring, said thus, + A table in the wilderness + can God prepare for us? + + Behold, he smote the rock, and thence + came streams and waters great; + But can he give his people bread? + and send them flesh to eat? + + The LORD did hear, and waxèd wroth; + so kindled was a flame + 'Gainst Jacob, and 'gainst Israel + up indignation came. + + For they believed not God, nor trust + in his salvation had; + Though clouds above he did command, + and heav'n's doors open made, + + And manna rained on them, and gave + them corn of heav'n to eat. + Man angels' food did eat; to them + he to the full sent meat. + + And in the heaven he did cause + an eastern wind to blow; + And by his powèr he let out + the southern wind to go. + + Then flesh as thick as dust he made + to rain down them among; + And feathered fowls, like as the sand + which lieth the shore along. + + At his command amidst their camp + these show'rs of flesh down fell, + All round about the tabernacles + and tents where they did dwell. + + So they did eat abundantly, + and had of meat their fill; + For he did give to them what was + their own desire and will. + + They from their lust had not estranged + their heart and their desire; + But while the meat was in their mouths, + which they did so require, + + God's wrath upon them came, and slew + the fattest of them all; + So that the choice of Israel, + o'erthrown by death, did fall. + + Yet, notwithstanding of all this, + they sinnèd still the more; + And though he had great wonders wrought, + believed him not therefor: + + Wherefore their days in vanity + he did consume and waste; + And by his wrath their wretched years + away in trouble past. + + But when he slew them, then they did + to seek him show desire; + Yea, they returned, and after God + right early did enquire. + + And that the Lord had been their Rock + they did remember then; + Ev'n that the high almighty God + had their Redeemer been. + + Yet with their mouth they flattered him, + and spake but feignèdly; + And they unto the God of truth + with their false tongues did lie. + + For though their words were good, their heart + with him was not sincere; + Unstedfast and perfidious + they in his cov'nant were. + + But, full of pity, he forgave + their sin, them did not slay; + Nor stirred up all his wrath, but oft + his anger turned away. + + For that they were but fading flesh + to mind he did recall; + A wind that passeth soon away, + and not returns at all. + + How often did they him provoke + within the wilderness! + And in the desert did him grieve + with their rebelliousness! + + Yea, turning back, they tempted God, + and limits set upon + Him, who in midst of Isr'el is + the only Holy One. + + They did not call to mind his pow'r, + not yet the day when he + Delivered them out of the hand + of their fierce enemy; + + Nor how great signs in Egypt land + he openly had wrought; + What miracles in Zoàn's field + his hand to pass had brought. + + How lakes and rivers everywhere + he turnèd into blood; + So that nor man nor beast could drink + of standing lake or flood. + + He brought among them swarms of flies, + which did them sore annoy; + And divers kinds of filthy frogs + he sent them to destroy. + + He to the caterpillar gave + the fruits of all their soil; + Their labours he delivered up + unto the locusts' spoil. + + Their vines with hail, their sycamores + he with the frost did blast: + Their beasts to hail he gave; their flocks + hot thunderbolts did waste. + + Fierce burning wrath he on them cast, + and indignation strong, + And troubles sore, by sending forth + ill angels them among. + + He to his wrath made way; their soul + from death he did not save; + But over to the pestilence + the lives of them he gave. + + In Egypt land the first-born all + he smote down everywhere; + Among the tents of Ham, ev'n these + chief of their strength that were. + + But his own people, like to sheep, + thence to go forth he made; + And he, amidst the wilderness, + them, as a flock, did lead. + + And he them safely on did lead, + so that they did not fear; + Whereas their en'mies by the sea + quite overwhelmèd were. + + To borders of his sanctuary + the Lord his people led, + Ev'n to the mount which his right hand + for them had purchasèd. + + The nätions of Canàan, + by his almighty hand, + Before their face he did expel + out of their native land; + + Which for inheritance to them + by line he did divide, + And made the tribes of Israel + within their tents abide. + + Yet God Most High they did provoke, + and tempted ever still; + And to observe his test'monies + did not incline their will: + + But, like their fathers, turnèd back, + and dealt unfaithfully: + Aside they turnèd, like a bow + that shoots deceitfully. + + For they to anger did provoke + him with their places high; + And with their graven images + moved him to jealousy. + + When God heard this, he waxèd wroth, + and much loathed Isr'el then: + So Shiloh's tent he left, the tent + which he had placed with men. + + And he his strength deliverèd + into captivity; + He left his glory in the hand + of his proud enemy. + + His people also he gave o'er + unto the sword's fierce rage: + So sore his wrath inflamèd was + against his heritage. + + The fire consumed their choice young men; + their maids no marriage had; + And when their priests fell by the sword, + their wives no mourning made. + + But then the Lord arose, as one + that doth from sleep awake; + And like a giant that, by wine + refreshed, a shout doth make: + + Upon his en'mies' hinder parts + he made his stroke to fall; + And so upon them he did put + a shame perpetuàl. + + Moreover, he the tabernacle + of Joseph did refuse; + The mighty tribe of Ephraim + he would in no wise choose: + + But he did choose Jehudah's tribe + to be the rest above; + And of mount Zion he made choice, + which he so much did love. + + And he his sanctuary built + like to a palace high, + Like to the earth which he did found + to perpetuity. + + Of David, that his servant was, + he also choice did make, + And even from the folds of sheep + was pleasèd him to take: + + From waiting on the ewes with young, + he brought him forth to feed + Israèl, his inheritance, + his people, Jacob's seed. + + So after the integrity + he of his heart them fed; + And by the good skill of his hands + them wisely governèd. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is but a brief instructive history of the transactions + between Israel and their God, for about four hundred and eighty years, + from Moses to David. Here is, (1.) The introduction, containing a + solemn call to an attentive consideration of God's words and works, in + order to a faithful transmitting of the knowledge thereof to + posterity, that they might set their hope in God, and reform from + their fathers' wickedness, ver. 1-8. (2.) The history itself, in which + are exhibited, 1. God's favours to Israel before their settlement in + Canaan, in plaguing the Egyptians; in dividing the Red Sea; in giving + them water from the rock, and manna from heaven; in bringing them into + Canaan, notwithstanding their unnumbered provocations, particularly + their forgetfulness of his mighty works, their ingratitude for his + favours, their murmuring against his trying dispensations, their + eagerness to satiate their lusts with his benefits, their impenitent + obduracy, or hypocritical repentance under his rebukes, ver. 9-55. 2. + Their ingratitude, treachery, and idolatry, after their entrance into + Canaan; with God's righteous resentment thereof, in removing his + tabernacle from Shiloh, and in delivering up his ark and people into + the hand of the Philistines, ver. 56-64. 3. God's merciful return to + them, in obliging the Philistines, by the plague of emrods, to restore + his ark; in at length providing an habitation for it at Jerusalem; and + in raising up and qualifying David, a descendant of Judah, to govern + them in a manner both honourable and happy, ver. 65-72. These things + are more largely recorded in the books of Exodus, Numbers, + Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, 1st and 2nd Samuel, and part of 1st + Kings.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me, with grief and shame, + remember my own and my fathers' transgressions against the Lord. Let + me adore the infinite patience, power, and mercy, holiness and equity + of God. Let me bless his holy name, for the multitude of his + undeserved favours towards me, and towards the church. And though he + cause grief, let me hope that, in due time, he will have compassion. + + - number: 79 + suggested_tunes: + - Martyrs + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O God, the heathen entered have + thine heritage; by them + Defilèd is thy house: on heaps + they laid Jerusalem. + + The bodies of thy servants they + have cast forth to be meat + To rav'nous fowls; thy dear saints' flesh + they gave to beasts to eat. + + Their blood about Jerusalem + like water they have shed; + And there was none to bury them + when they were slain and dead. + + Unto our neighbours a reproach + most base become are we; + A scorn and laughingstock to them + that round about us be. + + How long, LORD, shall thine anger last? + wilt thou still keep the same? + And shall thy fervent jealousy + burn like unto a flame? + + On heathen pour thy fury forth, + that have thee never known, + And on those kingdoms which thy name + have never called upon. + + For these are they who Jacob have + devourèd cruelly; + And they his habitätion + have causèd waste to lie. + + Against us mind not former sins; + thy tender mercies show; + Let them prevent us speedily, + for we're brought very low. + + For thy name's glory help us, Lord, + who hast our Saviour been: + Deliver us; for thy name's sake, + O purge away our sin. + + Why say the heathen, Where's their God? + let him to them be known; + When those who shed thy servants' blood + are in our sight o'erthrown. + + O let the pris'ner's sighs ascend + before thy sight on high; + Preserve those in thy mighty pow'r + that are designed to die. + + And to our neighbours' bosom cause + it sev'n-fold rendered be, + Ev'n the reproach wherewith they have, + O Lord, reproachèd thee. + + So we thy folk, and pasture-sheep, + shall give thee thanks always; + And unto generations all + we will show forth thy praise. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm relates to the havoc made of the Jewish capital and nation, + by the Chaldeans and Syro-Grecians, as typical of the afflictions of + the gospel church. Observe, (1.) How deplorable the condition of these + people of God was, when their enemies raged against their dwellings, + persons, and characters; and their God himself long continued the + tokens of his just displeasure, ver. 1-5. (2.) Their humble, but + fervent supplications, for the just punishment of their heathen + enemies; and for divine pity, pardon, and help to themselves, ver. + 6-12. (3.) The pleas wherewith they enforce their requests, viz. God's + relation to them, as their God and shepherd; and the tendency of what + they asked to promote the declarative glory of his name, ver. 1, 6, + 9-10, 13.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let my soul have a deep sympathy + with the afflicted members of Christ. Let me bless his holy name, that + I am not in similar circumstances. Let me lay before the Lord the + spiritual injuries which Satan and my lusts have done to my soul, and + to the church of God; and let me cry earnestly for his merciful rising + up to destroy them, and to show me his salvation. + + - number: 80 + suggested_tunes: + - Evan + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Hear, Isr'el's Shepherd! like a flock + thou that dost Joseph guide; + Shine forth, O thou that dost between + the cherubims abide. + + In Ephraim's and Benjamin's, + and in Manasseh's sight, + O come for our salvätion; + stir up thy strength and might. + + Turn us again, O Lord our God, + and upon us vouchsafe + To make thy countenance to shine, + and so we shall be safe. + + O LORD of hosts, almighty God, + how long shall kindled be + Thy wrath against the prayer made + by thine own folk to thee? + + Thou tears of sorrow giv'st to them + instead of bread to eat; + Yea, tears instead of drink thou giv'st + to them in measure great. + + Thou makest us a strife unto + our neighbours round about; + Our enemies among themselves + at us do laugh and flout. + + Turn us again, O God of hosts, + and upon us vouchsafe + To make thy countenance to shine, + and so we shall be safe. + + A vine from Egypt brought thou hast, + by thine outstretchèd hand; + And thou the heathen out didst cast + to plant it in their land. + + Before it thou a room didst make, + where it might grow and stand; + Thou causedst it deep root to take, + and it did fill the land. + + The mountains veiled were with its shade, + as with a covering; + Like goodly cedars were the boughs + which out from it did spring. + + Upon the one hand to the sea + her boughs she did out send; + On th' other side unto the flood + her branches did extend. + + Why hast thou then thus broken down, + and ta'en her hedge away? + So that all passengers do pluck, + and make of her a prey. + + The boar who from the forest comes + doth waste it at his pleasure; + The wild beast of the field also + devours it out of measure. + + O God of hosts, we thee beseech, + return now unto thine; + Look down from heav'n in love, behold, + and visit this thy vine: + + This vineyard, which thine own right hand + hath planted us among; + And that same branch, which for thyself + thou hast made to be strong. + + Burnt up it is with flaming fire, + it also is cut down: + They utterly are perishèd, + when as thy face doth frown. + + O let thy hand be still upon + the Man of thy right hand, + The Son of man, whom for thyself + thou madest strong to stand. + + So henceforth we will not go back, + nor turn from thee at all: + O do thou quicken us, and we + upon thy name will call. + + Turn us again, LORD God of hosts, + and upon us vouchsafe + To make thy countenance to shine, + and so we shall be safe. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm relates to the distressed condition of the Hebrew church + and nation, perhaps during the Syrian, Assyrian, or Chaldean + invasions, 2 Kings 12-13, 15, 17-19, 24-25. Here are, (1.) Earnest + supplications for God's special presence and favour, ver. 1-3, 7, 19. + (2.) Mournful complaints of the lasting appearances of God's anger; of + the overflowings of their grief; of abuse and derision by their + neighbours; and of the unhinging of their constitution, which God + himself had fixed, when he brought them out of Egypt, ver. 4-13. (3.) + Further supplications, that God would consider and pity his vineyard, + their church and nation; assist their king, his vine-dresser; and + convert them to, and quicken them in, his service, ver. + 14-19.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me be affected with the + distresses of God's church. Let me pant for the fullest manifestations + of his glory, and the blessings of his presence. Let me insist that + his Spirit may glorify Jesus Christ, the Man of his right hand, in + taking what is his, and showing it unto me. + + - number: 81 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Anne + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Sing loud to God our strength; with joy + to Jacob's God do sing. + Take up a psalm, the pleasant harp, + timbrel and psalt'ry bring. + + Blow trumpets at new-moon, what day + our feast appointed is: + For charge to Isr'el, and a law + of Jacob's God was this. + + To Joseph this a test'mony + he made, when Egypt land + He travelled through, where speech I heard + I did not understand. + + His shoulder I from burdens took, + his hands from pots did free. + Thou didst in trouble on me call, + and I delivered thee: + + In secret place of thundering + I did thee answer make; + And at the streams of Meribah + of thee a proof did take. + + O thou, my people, give an ear, + I'll testify to thee; + To thee, O Isr'el, if thou wilt + but hearken unto me. + + In midst of thee there shall not be + any strange god at all; + Nor unto any god unknown + thou bowing down shalt fall. + + I am the LORD thy God, which did + from Egypt land thee guide; + I'll fill thy mouth abundantly, + do thou it open wide. + + But yet my people to my voice + would not attentive be; + And ev'n my chosen Israel + he would have none of me. + + So to the lust of their own hearts + I them deliverèd; + And then in counsels of their own + they vainly wanderèd. + + O that my people had me heard, + Isr'el my ways had chose! + I had their en'mies soon subdued, + my hand turned on their foes. + + The haters of the LORD to him + submission should have feigned; + But as for them, their time should have + for evermore remained. + + He should have also fed them with + the finest of the wheat; + Of honey from the rock thy fill + I should have made thee eat. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed for the Feast of Trumpets, on the + first day of the seventh month, Lev. 23:24. Here are, (1.) Solemn + exhortations to praise God for what he is to his people, and for what + he hath done for them, ver. 1-7. (2.) Instructions concerning God's + new-covenant grant of himself and his benefits to men; their + ungrateful refusal thereof; and the misery they incur, and happiness + they lose thereby, ver. 8-16.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let my soul + consider what God is to, hath done for, and given to men to me: and + let all my inward powers steadfastly believe his declarations, and + eagerly embrace his offers. Let my heart be filled with grief, that + ever I refused to hear my own gracious God speaking from heaven, and + offering to me all the unsearchable riches of Christ. + + - number: 82 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Thomas + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + In gods' assembly God doth stand; + he judgeth gods among. + How long, accepting persons vile, + will ye give judgment wrong? + + Defend the poor and fatherless; + to poor oppressed do right. + The poor and needy ones set free; + rid them from ill men's might. + + They know not, nor will understand; + in darkness they walk on: + All the foundations of the earth + out of their course are gone. + + I said that ye are gods, and are + sons of the Highest all: + But ye shall die like men, and as + one of the princes fall. + + O God, do thou raise up thyself, + the earth to judgment call: + For thou, as thine inheritance, + shalt take the nations all. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably penned for the direction and warning of the + Jewish courts of judicature. It represents, (1.) The dignity of + magistrates, and their dependence on God as their sovereign Governor + and Judge, ver. 1, 6. (2.) Their duty, ver. 3-4. (3.) Their too + frequent degeneracy and mischievousness, and the just punishment + thereof, ver. 2, 5, 7. (4.) The saint's request for the establishment + of God's kingdom in the world, ver. 8.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let + me stand in awe of Jehovah's authority and presence. Let me remember I + must be answerable to him for all my conduct. Let me be affected with + my meanness and corruption. Let me revere magistrates as the deputies + of God on earth. And in every station in which God hath placed me, let + my care be, in all things to live honestly, and to cry mightily that + the kingdoms of this world may quickly be made the kingdoms of my Lord + and of his Christ. + + - number: 83 + suggested_tunes: + - Wigtown + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Keep not, O God, we thee entreat, + O keep not silence now: + Do thou not hold thy peace, O God, + and still no more be thou. + + For, lo, thine enemies a noise + tumultuously have made; + And they that haters are of thee + have lifted up the head. + + Against thy chosen people they + do crafty counsel take: + And they against thy hidden ones + do consultations make. + + Come, let us cut them off, said they, + from being a nätion, + That of the name of Isr'el may + no more be mëntion. + + For with joint heart they plot, in league + against thee they combine. + The tents of Edom, Ishm'elites, + Moab's and Hagar's line; + + Gebal, and Ammon, Amalek, + Philistines, those of Tyre; + And Assur joined with them, to help + Lot's children they conspire. + + Do to them as to Midian, + Jabin at Kison strand; + And Sis'ra, which at En-dor fell, + as dung to fat the land. + + Like Oreb and like Zeèb make + their noble men to fall; + Like Zeba and Zalmunna like, + make thou their princes all; + + Who said, For our possëssion + let us God's houses take. + My God, them like a wheel, as chaff + before the wind, them make. + + As fire consumes the wood, as flame + doth mountains set on fire, + Chase and affright them with the storm + and tempest of thine ire. + + Their faces fill with shame, O LORD, + that they may seek thy name. + Let them confounded be, and vexed, + and perish in their shame: + + That men may know that thou, to whom + alone doth appertain + The name JEHOVAH, dost most high + o'er all the earth remain. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm relates to some combinations of the Heathens around, + against the Hebrews, either in the days of David, 2 Sam. 8 or 10, or + of Jehoshaphat, 2 Chron. 20. It contains, (1.) A solemn remonstrance + to God concerning their malicious designs against his church and + honour, ver. 1-8. (2.) Fervent supplications to God that he would + defeat these attempts; protect and preserve his church; humble his + enemies, and glorify himself in the world, ver. + 9-18.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me be affected with the inward + combinations of my own lusts with Satan and the world, and with the + joint endeavours of open enemies and naughty professors against the + church and interests of Christ; and commit the cause to God who + judgeth righteously. + + - number: 84 + suggested_tunes: + - Wetherby + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + How lovely is thy dwelling-place, + O LORD of hosts, to me! + The tabernacles of thy grace + how pleasant, LORD, they be! + + My thirsty soul longs veh'mently, + yea faints, thy courts to see: + My very heart and flesh cry out, + O living God, for thee. + + Behold, the sparrow findeth out + an house wherein to rest; + The swallow also for herself + hath purchasèd a nest; + + Ev'n thine own altars, where she safe + her young ones forth may bring, + O thou almighty LORD of hosts, + who art my God and King. + + Bless'd are they in thy house that dwell, + they ever give thee praise. + Bless'd is the man whose strength thou art, + in whose heart are thy ways: + + Who passing thorough Baca's vale, + therein do dig up wells; + Also the rain that falleth down + the pools with water fills. + + So they from strength unwearied go + still forward unto strength, + Until in Zion they appear + before the Lord at length. + + LORD God of hosts, my prayèr hear; + O Jacob's God, give ear. + See God our shield, look on the face + of thine anointed dear. + + For in thy courts one day excels + a thousand; rather in + My God's house will I keep a door, + than dwell in tents of sin. + + For God the LORD's a sun and shield: + he'll grace and glory give; + And will withhold no good from them + that uprightly do live. + + O thou that art the LORD of hosts, + that man is truly blessed, + Who by assured confidence + on thee alone doth rest. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is much like the 27th, 42nd, 43rd, and 63rd, and may have + been composed on the same occasion with the former, when David was + banished from Jerusalem by Absalom his son, 2 Sam. 15-16. We have + here, (1.) David's ardent affection towards the public ordinances of + God, and sense of their happiness who enjoyed them, ver. 1-7, 10. (2.) + His heart-burning desire to the God of ordinances, ver. 8-9. (3.) His + assured faith of God's kindness, and persuasion of the happiness of + such as trust in him, ver. 11-12.<br/><br/><br/>So let my heart cry + out for God, the living God. So let me covet earnestly intimate + fellowship with him in his ordinances. So let me praise his name, and + hold on in his way, till I arrive at the Zion above. So let God be my + friend, my protector, my supplier, my store, and the everlasting rock + of my rest. + + - number: 85 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Leonard + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O LORD, thou hast been fav'rable + to thy belovèd land: + Jacob's captivity thou hast + recalled with mighty hand. + + Thou pardonèd thy people hast + all their iniquities; + Thou all their trespasses and sins + hast covered from thine eyes. + + Thou took'st off all thine ire, and turn'dst + from thy wrath's furiousness. + Turn us, God of our health, and cause + thy wrath 'gainst us to cease. + + Shall thy displeasure thus endure + against us without end? + Wilt thou to generations all + thine anger forth extend? + + That in thee may thy people joy, + wilt thou not us revive? + Show us thy mercy, LORD, to us + do thy salvation give. + + I'll hear what God the LORD will speak: + to his folk he'll speak peace, + And to his saints; but let them not + return to foolishness. + + To them that fear him surely near + is his salvätion; + That glory in our land may have + her habitätion. + + Truth met with mercy, righteousness + and peace kissed mutually: + Truth springs from earth, and righteousness + looks down from heaven high. + + Yea, what is good the LORD shall give; + our land shall yield increase: + Justice, to set us in his steps, + shall go before his face. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm relates to some remarkable deliverance of the Jewish + nation; but whether that effected by the advancement of David to the + throne, or that from the Assyrian invasion, 2 Kings 19, or from the + Chaldean captivity, Ezra 1, is uncertain. It contains, (1.) Thankful + acknowledgments of divine favours received, ver. 1-3. (2.) + Supplications that further favours and deliverances may be speedily + bestowed, ver. 4-7. (3.) Firm expectations of a gracious answer, in + the coming, mediation, and blessings, of the Messiah, ver. + 8-13.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let my soul be affected with the + mercies, which I, which my country, which the church of God, have + enjoyed. Let me be thereby encouraged to plead for more. And let me, + without doubting, credit the promises, and expect supply from the + fulness of Christ. + + - number: 86 + suggested_tunes: + - Evan + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O LORD, do thou bow down thine ear, + and hear me graciously; + Because I sore afflicted am, + and am in poverty. + + Because I'm holy, let my soul + by thee preservèd be: + O thou my God, thy servant save, + that puts his trust in thee. + + Sith unto thee I daily cry, + be merciful to me. + Rejoice thy servant's soul; for, Lord, + I lift my soul to thee. + + For thou art gräcious, O Lord, + and ready to forgive; + And rich in mercy, all that call + upon thee to relieve. + + Hear, LORD, my pray'r; unto the voice + of my request attend: + In troublous times I'll call on thee; + for thou wilt answer send. + + Lord, there is none among the gods + that may with thee compare; + And like the works which thou hast done, + not any work is there. + + All nations whom thou mad'st shall come + and worship rev'rently + Before thy face; and they, O Lord, + thy name shall glorify. + + Because thou art exceeding great, + and works by thee are done + Which are to be admired; and thou + art God thyself alone. + + Teach me thy way, and in thy truth, + O Lord, then walk will I; + Unite my heart, that I thy name + may fear continually. + + O Lord my God, with all my heart + to thee I will give praise; + And I the glory will ascribe + unto thy name always: + + Because thy mercy toward me + in greatness doth excel; + And thou delivered hast my soul + out from the lowest hell. + + O God, the proud against me rise, + and vi'lent men have met, + That for my soul have sought; and thee + before them have not set. + + But thou art full of pity, Lord, + a God most gräcious, + Long-suffering, and in thy truth + and mercy plentèous. + + O turn to me thy countenance, + and mercy on me have; + Thy servant strengthen, and the son + of thine own handmaid save. + + Show me a sign for good, that they + which do me hate may see, + And be ashamed; because thou, LORD, + didst help and comfort me. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm contains, (1.) David's fervent supplications, that God + would hear his prayers, ver. 1, 6-7; mercifully preserve and save him, + ver. 2-3, 16; and afford him joy, strength, and honour, ver. 4, 11, + 17. (2.) His pleas, wherewith he enforceth his prayers, drawn from the + goodness of God, ver. 5, 13, 15; his own relations to, and trust in + God, ver. 2, 4, 16; his former experience of God's kindness, ver 17; + and from the malice of his enemies, ver. 14. (3.) His ascription of + praise to God, as matchless in his nature and work; as the sole object + of worship; and as great and infinitely gracious, ver. 8-10, + 12-13.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me remember, that the psalmist + hath left me an example, that I should walk in his steps. + + - number: 87 + suggested_tunes: + - York + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Upon the hills of holiness + he his foundation sets. + GOD, more than Jacob's dwellings all, + delights in Zion's gates. + + Things glorious are said of thee, + thou city of the Lord. + Rahab and Babel I, to those + that know me, will record: + + Behold ev'n Tyrus, and with it + the land of Palestine, + And likewise Ethiopia; + this man was born therein. + + And it of Zion shall be said, + This man and that man there + Was born; and he that is most High + himself shall stablish her. + + When GOD the people writes, he'll count + that this man born was there. + There be that sing and play; and all + my well-springs in thee are. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is an encomium upon mount Zion, as typical of the gospel + church. (1.) For the sake of the temple, mount Zion is preferred to + every other place in Canaan; as more honoured by God and more + delighted in by him, ver. 1-3. (2.) In respect of better inhabitants, + greater stability, and more important joys and blessings, the church + is preferred to all other nations, ver. 4-7.<br/><br/><br/>While I + sing, let me observe the dignity of relation to Jehovah as my God. Let + me praise him for founding his church on Jesus the unmoveable Rock of + ages, that the gates of hell cannot prevail against her. Let me + rejoice in the glorious promises made concerning her, and supplicate + the speedy, the remarkable fulfilment thereof. And while I with joy + draw water out of her ordinances, her wells of salvation, let me live + as an holy, a cheerful member of her society. + + - number: 88 + suggested_tunes: + - Bangor + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + LORD God, my Saviour, day and night + before thee cried have I. + Before thee let my prayèr come; + give ear unto my cry. + + For troubles great do fill my soul; + my life draws nigh the grave. + I'm counted with those that go down + to pit, and no strength have. + + Ev'n free among the dead, like them + that slain in grave do lie; + Cut off from thy hand, whom no more + thou hast in memory. + + Thou hast me laid in lowest pit, + in deeps and darksome caves. + Thy wrath lies hard on me, thou hast + me pressed with all thy waves. + + Thou hast put far from me my friends, + thou mad'st them to abhor me; + And I am so shut up, that I + find no evasion for me. + + By reason of afflïction + mine eye mourns dolefully: + To thee, LORD, do I call, and stretch + my hands continually. + + Wilt thou show wonders to the dead? + shall they rise, and thee bless? + Shall in the grave thy love be told? + in death thy faithfulness? + + Shall thy great wonders in the dark, + or shall thy righteousness + Be known to any in the land + of deep forgetfulness? + + But, LORD, to thee I cried; my pray'r + at morn prevent shall thee. + Why, LORD, dost thou cast off my soul, + and hid'st thy face from me? + + Distressed am I, and from my youth + I ready am to die; + Thy terrors I have borne, and am + distracted fearfully. + + The dreadful fierceness of thy wrath + quite over me doth go: + Thy terrors great have cut me off, + they did pursue me so. + + For round about me ev'ry day, + like water, they did roll; + And, gathering together, they + have compassèd my soul. + + My friends thou hast put far from me, + and him that did me love; + And those that mine acquaintance were + to darkness didst remove. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + In this doleful psalm, after a very short declaration of his faith, we + have, (1.) Heman's bitter wailing over his distressed case, that his + troubles were great; his body at the point of death; his soul filled + with grief; his God hiding and angry; his mind distressed with + terrors; and his friends unkind, ver. 3-9, 14-18. (2.) His bitter + groans to, and expostulations with God, importing, that he had long + cried for mercy, and that in death nothing could be done for him, + etc., ver. 1-2, 9-14.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me think how + dreadful hell must be, when even fatherly chastisements are so severe; + how dreadful the enormity of sin, which provokes God so grievously to + afflict his dearest favourites; and how necessary it is to retain our + faith of our relation to God, amidst the worst of troubles. + + - number: 89 + suggested_tunes: + - Dunfermline + - Effingham + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + GOD's mercies I will ever sing; + and with my mouth I shall + Thy faithfulness make to be known + to generations all. + + For mercy shall be built, said I, + for ever to endure; + Thy faithfulness, ev'n in the heav'ns, + thou wilt establish sure. + + I with my chosen One have made + a cov'nant graciously; + And to my servant, whom I loved, + to David sworn have I; + + That I thy seed establish shall + for ever to remain, + And will to generations all + thy throne build and maintain. + + The praises of thy wonders, LORD, + the heavens shall express; + And in the congregätion + of saints thy faithfulness. + + For who in heaven with the LORD + may once himself compare? + Who is like GOD among the sons + of those that mighty are? + + Great fear in meeting of the saints + is due unto the Lord; + And he of all about him should + with rev'rence be adored. + + O thou that art the LORD of hosts, + what Lord in mightiness + Is like to thee? who compassed round + art with thy faithfulness. + + Ev'n in the raging of the sea + thou over it dost reign; + And when the waves thereof do swell, + thou stillest them again. + + Rahab in pieces thou didst break, + like one that slaughtered is; + And with thy mighty arm thou hast + dispersed thine enemies. + + The heav'ns are thine, thou for thine own + the earth dost also take; + The world, and fulness of the same, + thy pow'r did found and make. + + The north and south from thee alone + their first beginning had; + Both Tabor mount and Hermon hill + shall in thy name be glad. + + Thou hast an arm that's full of power, + thy hand is great in might; + And thy right hand exceedingly + exalted is in height. + + Justice and judgment of thy throne + are made the dwelling-place; + Mercy, accompanied with truth, + shall go before thy face. + + O greatly blessed the people are + the joyful sound that know; + In brightness of thy face, O LORD, + they ever on shall go. + + They in thy name shall all the day + rejoice exceedingly; + And in thy righteousness shall they + exalted be on high. + + Because the glory of their strength + doth only stand in thee; + And in thy favour shall our horn + and pow'r exalted be. + + For GOD is our defence; and he + to us doth safety bring: + The Holy One of Israel + is our almighty King. + + In vision to thy Holy One + thou saidst, I help upon + A strong one laid; out of the folk + I raised a chosen one; + + Ev'n David, I have found him out + a servant unto me; + And with my holy oil my King + anointed him to be. + + With whom my hand shall stablished be; + mine arm shall make him strong. + On him the foe shall not exact, + nor son of mischief wrong. + + I will beat down before his face + all his malicious foes; + I will them greatly plague who do + with hatred him oppose. + + My mercy and my faithfulness + with him yet still shall be; + And in my name his horn and pow'r + men shall exalted see. + + His hand and pow'r shall reach afar; + I'll set it in the sea; + And his right hand establishèd + shall in the rivers be. + + Thou art my Father, he shall cry, + thou art my God alone; + And he shall say, Thou art the Rock + of my salvätion. + + I'll make him my first-born, more high + than kings of any land. + My love I'll ever keep for him, + my cov'nant fast shall stand. + + His seed I by my pow'r will make + for ever to endure; + And, as the days of heav'n, his throne + shall stable be, and sure. + + But if his children shall forsake + my laws, and go astray, + And in my judgments shall not walk, + but wander from my way: + + If they my laws break, and do not + keep my commändments; + I'll visit then their faults with rods, + their sins with chastisements. + + Yet I'll not take my love from him, + nor false my promise make. + My cov'nant I'll not break, nor change + what with my mouth I spake. + + Once by my holiness I sware, + to David I'll not lie; + His seed and throne shall, as the sun, + before me last for aye. + + It, like the moon, shall ever be + established stedfastly; + And like to that which in the heav'n + doth witness faithfully. + + But thou, displeasèd, hast cast off, + thou didst abhor and loathe; + With him that thine anointed is + thou hast been very wroth. + + Thou hast thy servant's covenant + made void, and quite cast by; + Thou hast profaned his crown, while it + cast on the ground doth lie. + + Thou all his hedges hast broke down, + his strongholds down hast torn. + He to all passers-by a spoil, + to neighbours is a scorn. + + Thou hast set up his foes' right hand; + mad'st all his en'mies glad: + Turned his sword's edge, and him to stand + in battle hast not made. + + His glory thou hast made to cease, + his throne to ground down cast; + Shortened his days of youth, and him + with shame thou covered hast. + + How long, LORD, wilt thou hide thyself? + for ever, in thine ire? + And shall thine indignätion + burn like unto a fire? + + Remember, Lord, how short a time + I shall on earth remain: + O wherefore is it so that thou + hast made all men in vain? + + What man is he that liveth here, + and death shall never see? + Or from the powèr of the grave + what man his soul shall free? + + Thy former loving-kindnesses, + O Lord, where be they now? + Those which in truth and faithfulness + to David sworn hast thou? + + Mind, Lord, thy servant's sad reproach; + how I in bosom bear + The scornings of the people all, + who strong and mighty are. + + Wherewith thy raging enemies + reproached, O LORD, think on; + Wherewith they have reproached the steps + of thine anointed one. + + All blessing to the LORD our God + let be ascribèd then: + For evermore so let it be. + Amen, yea, and amen. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was perhaps composed on the occasion of Absalom's + rebellion, 2 Sam. 15; or of the revolt of the ten tribes, from their + subjection to the family of David, 1 Kings 12; or it relates to the + Chaldean oppression and captivity, 2 Kings 24-25. In the first, and + joyful part, we have, (1.) The foundation of all comfort, happiness, + honour, and stability, laid in the mercy of God, and his covenant with + David, emblematic of that made with Jesus Christ for the redemption of + mankind, ver. 1-4. (2.) A celebration of the God of the covenant, in + his faithfulness, glory, greatness, mercy, and equity; and in his + works, ver. 5-14; and of the glorious dignity, happiness, and safety + of the covenant people, ver. 15-18. (3.) A bundle of covenant + promises, securing proper qualifications, assistance and glory, to the + Head of the covenant; and indefeasible blessings to his covenant seed, + notwithstanding their manifold sins and chastisements, ver. + 19-37.<br/><br/><br/>In the second, and mournful part, we have (1.) + Grievous lamentations over the dishonour, distress, and danger of + David's family, ver. 38-45. (2.) Expostulations with God concerning + the same drawn from the continuance of trouble; the shortness of + human life, and certainty of death; the withdrawment of former + kindness promised in the covenant; and the insolent reproaches of + enemies, ver. 46-51. (3.) A triumphant conclusion of praise to God, + ver. 52.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me chiefly keep mine eyes on + David's Lord. Let me with joy behold the covenant made with him, for + our redemption. Let me adore my covenant God, as in him, well pleased + for his righteousness' sake, and rendering him and his seed most + blessed for evermore. And as Jesus' sufferings for me purchased my + eternal happiness, let never my own, or the church's troubles weaken + my faith, or make me drop my songs of praise. + + - number: 90 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Anne + - Kilmarnock + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Lord, thou hast been our dwelling-place + in generations all. + Before thou ever hadst brought forth + the mountains great or small; + + Ere ever thou hadst formed the earth, + and all the world abroad; + Ev'n thou from everlasting art + to everlasting God. + + Thou dost unto destrüction + man that is mortal turn; + And unto them thou say'st, Again, + ye sons of men, return. + + Because a thousand years appear + no more before thy sight + Than yesterday, when it is past, + or than a watch by night. + + As with an overflowing flood + thou carriest them away: + They like a sleep are, like the grass + that grows at morn are they. + + At morn it flourishes and grows, + cut down at ev'n doth fade. + For by thine anger we're consumed, + thy wrath makes us afraid. + + Our sins thou and iniquities + dost in thy presence place, + And sett'st our secret faults before + the brightness of thy face. + + For in thine anger all our days + do pass on to an end; + And as a tale that hath been told, + so we our years do spend. + + Threescore and ten years do sum up + our days and years, we see; + Or if, by reason of more strength, + in some fourscore they be: + + Yet doth the strength of such old men + but grief and labour prove; + For it is soon cut off, and we + fly hence, and soon remove. + + Who knows the powèr of thy wrath? + according to thy fear + So is thy wrath: Lord, teach thou us + our end in mind to bear; + + And so to count our days, that we + our hearts may still apply + To learn thy wisdom and thy truth, + that we may live thereby. + + Turn yet again to us, O LORD, + how long thus shall it be? + Let it repent thee now for those + that servants are to thee. + + O with thy tender mercies, Lord, + us early satisfy; + So we rejoice shall all our days, + and still be glad in thee. + + According as the days have been, + wherein we grief have had, + And years wherein we ill have seen, + so do thou make us glad. + + O let thy work and pow'r appear + thy servants' face before; + And show unto their children dear + thy glory evermore: + + And let the beauty of the LORD + our God be us upon: + Our handiworks establish thou, + establish them each one. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was composed by Moses, the man of God, some time after God + had sentenced the Hebrews to wandering and death in the wilderness, + Num. 14. In it, (1.) Moses comforts himself, and his people, with the + eternal and unchangeable duration of God himself, and their interest + in him, ver. 1-2. (2.) He humbles himself and his people with the + consideration of human frailty, ver. 3-6. (3.) He submits himself and + his people to the righteous sentence of God passed upon them, ver. + 7-11. (4.) By prayer he commits himself and his people to their + gracious and merciful God; and requests the sanctified use of their + awful chastisements; the averting of divine wrath, and the bestowal of + true comforts and joys; the returns of his favour, and the progress of + his work of mercy among their children, ver. 12-17.<br/><br/><br/>Let + me sing this psalm, as but the tenant of an hour, who hath none + assurance of his present life: Sing it as resigned to my lot on earth, + however afflicted; as active in preparation for death; and committing + myself and family to the God of truth as our Redeemer, our God, and + our everlasting all. + + - number: 91 + suggested_tunes: + - Effingham + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + He that doth in the secret place + of the most High reside, + Under the shade of him that is + th' Almighty shall abide. + + I of the LORD my God will say, + He is my refuge still, + He is my fortress, and my God, + and in him trust I will. + + Assuredly he shall thee save, + and give deliverance + From subtle fowler's snare, and from + the noisome pestilence. + + His feathers shall thee hide; thy trust + under his wings shall be: + His faithfulness shall be a shield + and buckler unto thee. + + Thou shalt not need to be afraid + for terrors of the night; + Nor for the arrow that doth fly + by day, while it is light; + + Nor for the pestilence, that walks + in darkness secretly; + Nor for destruction, that doth waste + at noon-day openly. + + A thousand at thy side shall fall, + on thy right hand shall lie + Ten thousand dead; yet unto thee + it shall not once come nigh. + + Only thou with thine eyes shalt look, + and a beholder be; + And thou therein the just reward + of wicked men shalt see. + + Because the LORD, who constantly + my refuge is alone, + Ev'n the Most High, is made by thee + thy habitätion; + + No plague shall near thy dwelling come; + no ill shall thee befall: + For thee to keep in all thy ways + his angels charge he shall. + + They in their hands shall bear thee up, + still waiting thee upon; + Lest thou at any time should'st dash + thy foot against a stone. + + Upon the adder thou shalt tread, + and on the lion strong; + Thy feet on dragons trample shall, + and on the lions young. + + Because on me he set his love, + I'll save and set him free; + Because my great name he hath known, + I will him set on high. + + He'll call on me, I'll answer him; + I will be with him still + In trouble, to deliver him, + and honour him I will. + + With length of days unto his mind + I will him satisfy; + I also my salvätion + will cause his eyes to see. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was perhaps penned on the occasion of the pestilence, + inflicted for numbering the people, 2 Sam. 24. In it, while the + psalmist, by faith, takes God for his own refuge and keeper (ver. 2-9) + he, for the encouragement of others to do the same, represents, (1.) + The dignity, extent, and continuance, of their happiness and safety, + who have God for their residence, ver. 1-4. (2.) Their preservation + from all malice and baleful influence of the powers of darkness, while + multitudes are ruined thereby, ver. 3-9. (3.) Their enjoyment of + angels for their guard; and their triumph over devils and other + opposers, ver. 10-12. (4.) Their possession of special favour from, + and delightful intimacy with God, here and hereafter, ver. + 13-16.<br/><br/><br/>In singing these lines, let mine eyes be fixed on + Jesus, the Man of God's right hand, in whom all these promises were + fulfilled to the highest; and, in his name, let me depend on them to + be accomplished in myself. And let all the begun experience I have had + thereof, encourage me to rejoice in hope of the more abundant mercies + and glory of God. + + - number: 92 + suggested_tunes: + - Howard (Dublin) + - Effingham + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + To render thanks unto the LORD + it is a comely thing, + And to thy name, O thou Most High, + due praise aloud to sing. + + Thy loving-kindness to show forth + when shines the morning light; + And to declare thy faithfulness + with pleasure ev'ry night, + + On a ten-stringèd instrument, + upon the psaltery, + And on the harp with solemn sound, + and grave sweet melody. + + For thou, LORD, by thy mighty works + hast made my heart right glad; + And I will triumph in the works + which by thine hands were made. + + How great, LORD, are thy works! each thought + of thine a deep it is: + A brutish man it knoweth not; + fools understand not this. + + When those that lewd and wicked are + spring quickly up like grass, + And workers of iniquity + do flourish all apace; + + It is that they for ever may + destroyèd be and slain: + But thou, O LORD, art the Most High, + for ever to remain. + + For, lo, thine enemies, O LORD, + thine en'mies perish shall; + The workers of iniquity + shall be dispersèd all. + + But thou shalt, like unto the horn + of th' unicorn, exalt + My horn on high: thou with fresh oil + anoint me also shalt. + + Mine eyes shall also my desire + see on mine enemies; + Mine ears shall of the wicked hear + that do against me rise. + + But like the palm-tree flourishing + shall be the righteous one; + He shall like to the cedar grow + that is in Lebanon. + + Those that within the house of GOD + are planted by his grace, + They shall grow up, and flourish all + in our God's holy place. + + And in old age, when others fade, + they fruit still forth shall bring; + They shall be fat, and full of sap, + and aye be flourishing; + + To show that upright is the LORD: + he is a rock to me; + And he from all unrighteousness + is altogether free. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + In this psalm or song for the sabbath day,, (1.) Praise, the business + of the sabbath, is earnestly recommended, ver. 1-3. (2.) God's works + (which are the reason of the sabbath and ground of praise) are + celebrated, in their greatness, and unsearchableness, ver. 4-6. (3.) + The ruin of sinners and the felicity of saints are beautifully + contrasted. Sinners shall perish; but God, the portion and life of + saints, shall endure for ever. Sinners, notwithstanding their + temporary flourish, shall be cut off and destroyed; but saints shall + be exalted and comforted. Sinners shall be confounded and ruined; but + saints, through their union to, and fellowship with Christ, shall + prosper and flourish, to the manifestation of God's faithfulness and + equity, ver. 7-15.<br/><br/><br/>While I keep the sabbath of the Lord + my God, let these things deeply affect my heart; and be it my care, by + a steady conversation and manifest growth in grace, to verify these + precious promises of the New Testament in Jesus' blood. + + - number: 93 + suggested_tunes: + - Irish + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + The LORD doth reign, and clothed is he + with majesty most bright; + His works do show him clothed to be, + and girt about with might. + + The world is also stablishèd, + that it cannot depart. + Thy throne is fixed of old, and thou + from everlasting art. + + The floods, O LORD, have lifted up, + they lifted up their voice; + The floods have lifted up their waves, + and made a mighty noise. + + But yet the LORD, that is on high, + is more of might by far + Than noise of many waters is, + or great sea-billows are. + + Thy testimonies every one + in faithfulness excel; + And holiness for ever, LORD, + thine house becometh well. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is a triumphant celebration of the government of Jehovah, + and of Jesus our Redeemer, in (1.) The awfulness, strength, stability, + and duration thereof, ver. 1-2. (2.) In his triumphant victories over + all opposition, ver. 3-4. (3.) In the faithfulness and certainty of + his words, and the holiness of his court, ver. 5.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul rejoice in the highness of my God, and in the + glories of my Redeemer. + + - number: 94 + suggested_tunes: + - Dundee + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O LORD God, unto whom alone + all vengeance doth belong; + O mighty God, who vengeance own'st, + shine forth, avenging wrong. + + Lift up thyself, thou of the earth + the sov'reign Judge that art; + And unto those that are so proud + a due reward impart. + + How long, O mighty GOD, shall they + who lewd and wicked be, + How long shall they who wicked are + thus triumph haughtily? + + How long shall things most hard by them + be utterèd and told? + And all that work iniquity + to boast themselves be bold? + + Thy folk they break in pieces, LORD, + thine heritage oppress: + The widow they and stranger slay, + and kill the fatherless. + + Yet say they, GOD it shall not see + nor God of Jacob know. + Ye brutish people! understand; + fools! when wise will ye grow? + + The Lord did plant the ear of man, + and hear then shall not he? + He only formed the eye, and then + shall he not clearly see? + + He that the nations doth correct, + shall he not chastise you? + He knowledge unto man doth teach, + and shall himself not know? + + Man's thoughts to be but vanity + the LORD doth well discern. + Bless'd is the man thou chast'nest, LORD, + and mak'st thy law to learn: + + That thou may'st give him rest from days + of sad adversity, + Until the pit be digged for those + that work iniquity. + + For sure the LORD will not cast off + those that his people be, + Neither his own inheritance + quit and forsake will he: + + But judgment unto righteousness + shall yet return again; + And all shall follow after it + that are right-hearted men. + + Who will rise up for me against + those that do wickedly? + Who will stand up for me 'gainst those + that work iniquity? + + Unless the LORD had been my help + when I was sore oppressed, + Almost my soul had in the house + of silence been at rest. + + When I had utterèd this word, + (my foot doth slip away), + Thy mercy held me up, O LORD, + thy goodness did me stay. + + Amidst the multitude of thoughts + which in my heart do fight, + My soul, lest it be overcharged, + thy comforts do delight. + + Shall of iniquity the throne + have fellowship with thee, + Which mischief, cunningly contrived, + doth by a law decree? + + Against the righteous souls they join, + they guiltless blood condemn. + But of my refuge God's the rock, + and my defence from them. + + On them their own iniquity + the Lord shall bring and lay, + And cut them off in their own sin; + our LORD God shall them slay. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This is a psalm for the afflicted people of God, in which, (1.) God's + just vengeance is implored upon their haughty, active, cruel, and + atheistical oppressors, whose folly is exposed from the consideration + of God's works of creation, providence and grace, ver. 1-11. (2.) His + gracious comforts are presented to the persecuted saints, that he will + bless them in and by their afflictions, and give them rest after them, + while their enemies are ruined; that God will not cast them off when + cast down, but will, in his due time, reduce things to their right + course: to verify which, the psalmist produceth part of his own + experience, ver. 12-24.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let all revenge be + rooted from my heart; all repining at afflictions be banished from my + soul. But in every plunge of adversity, let me cast my burden on the + Lord, that he may sustain me, and help me in the time of need. Let me + rejoice in the assured hope¡s of God's yet reforming the church, and + spreading his glory among the nations. + + - number: 95 + suggested_tunes: + - Dunfermline + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O come, let us sing to the LORD: + come, let us every one + A joyful noise make to the Rock + of our salvätion. + + Let us before his presence come + with praise and thankful voice; + Let us sing psalms to him with grace, + and make a joyful noise. + + For GOD, a great God, and great King, + above all gods he is. + Depths of the earth are in his hand, + the strength of hills is his. + + To him the spacious sea belongs, + for he the same did make; + The dry land also from his hands + its form at first did take. + + O come, and let us worship him, + let us bow down withal, + And on our knees before the LORD + our Maker let us fall. + + For he's our God, the people we + of his own pasture are, + And of his hand the sheep; to-day, + if ye his voice will hear, + + Then harden not your hearts, as in + the provocätion, + As in the desert, on the day + of the tentätion: + + When me your fathers tempt'd and proved, + and did my working see; + Ev'n for the space of forty years + this race hath grievèd me. + + I said, This people errs in heart, + my ways they do not know: + To whom I sware in wrath, that to + my rest they should not go. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm contains, (1.) Solemn calls to celebrate the praises of + Jesus and his Father, on account of what he had done, and what he is + to us, and we to him, ver. 1-7. (2.) Alarming warnings, to hear his + voice, and not to harden our hearts, as the Israelites in the desert, + who on that account were debarred from the promised land, ver. + 7-11.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me behold the glories of my + Redeemer, and believe my new-covenant relation to him; and while it is + yet called to-day, let me beware of being hardened through the + deceitfulness of sin. And since there is a promise left me of entering + into his rest, let me take heed, lest I should seem to come short of + it, through unbelief. + + - number: 96 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Magnus + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O sing a new song to the LORD: + sing all the earth to GOD. + To GOD sing, bless his name, show still + his saving health abroad. + + Among the heathen nätions + his glory do declare; + And unto all the people show + his works that wondrous are. + + For great's the LORD, and greatly he + is to be magnified; + Yea, worthy to be feared is he + above all gods beside. + + For all the gods are idols dumb, + which blinded nations fear; + But our God is the LORD, by whom + the heav'ns created were. + + Great honour is before his face, + and majesty divine; + Strength is within his holy place, + and there doth beauty shine. + + Do ye ascribe unto the LORD, + of people ev'ry tribe, + Glory do ye unto the LORD, + and mighty pow'r ascribe. + + Give ye the glory to the LORD + that to his name is due; + Come ye into his courts, and bring + an offering with you. + + In beauty of his holiness, + O do the LORD adore; + Likewise let all the earth throughout + tremble his face before. + + Among the heathen say, GOD reigns; + the world shall stedfastly + Be fixed from moving; he shall judge + the people righteously. + + Let heav'ns be glad before the Lord, + and let the earth rejoice; + Let seas, and all that is therein, + cry out, and make a noise. + + Let fields rejoice, and everything + that springeth of the earth: + Then woods and ev'ry tree shall sing + with gladness and with mirth + + Before the LORD; because he comes, + to judge the earth comes he: + He'll judge the world with righteousness, + the people faithfully. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was part of the hymn sung at the translation of the ark + from the house of Obed-edom to the city of David, 1 Chron. 16:1, + 22-33; but relates to the calling of the Gentiles to our Redeemer. + Here are, (1.) Solemn calls to ascribe praises and glory to our high + and great Immanuel, ver. 1-9. (2.) Loud proclamations of Jesus' + establishment of his gospel church, and of his coming to Judge the + world, to the great joy of his friends, ver. + 10-13.<br/><br/><br/>While these high praises of God are in my mouth, + let my heart behold the glory, believe the promises, and burn with + desire after the enjoyment of Christ, and of God in him. + + - number: 97 + suggested_tunes: + - Irish + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + GOD reigneth, let the earth be glad, + and isles rejoice each one. + Dark clouds him compass; and in right + with judgment dwells his throne. + + Fire goes before him, and his foes + it burns up round about: + His lightnings lighten did the world; + earth saw, and shook throughout. + + Hills at the presence of the LORD, + like wax, did melt away; + Ev'n at the presence of the Lord + of all the earth, I say. + + The heav'ns declare his righteousness, + all men his glory see. + All who serve graven images, + confounded let them be. + + Who do of idols boast themselves, + let shame upon them fall: + Ye that are callèd gods, see that + ye do him worship all. + + Zion did hear, and joyful was, + glad Judah's daughters were; + They much rejoiced, O LORD, because + thy judgments did appear. + + For thou, O LORD, art high above + all things on earth that are; + Above all other gods thou art + exalted very far. + + Hate ill, all ye that love the LORD: + his saints' souls keepeth he; + And from the hands of wicked men + he sets them safe and free. + + For all those that be rïghteous + sown is a joyful light, + And gladness sown is for all those + that are in heart upright. + + Ye righteous, in the LORD rejoice; + express your thankfulness, + When ye into your memory + do call his holiness. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is of the same strain with the preceding; and contains, + (1.) Solemn calls to the Gentile nations to rejoice at the equity and + extent of Jesus' new-testament kingdom, and at the destruction of + hardened Jews and heathen idolaters, occasioned by the establishment + thereof, ver. 1-7. (2.) Representations of the pure and holy joy of + the saints, on account of Jesus' highness, and the glory of God + manifested therein, and of the care taken for their safety and + comfort, ver. 8-12.<br/><br/><br/>Join the choir, O my soul. Sing + praises to thy King; sing praises with understanding. + + - number: 98 + suggested_tunes: + - Stockton + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O sing a new song to the LORD, + for wonders he hath done: + His right hand and his holy arm + him victory hath won. + + The LORD God his salvätion + hath causèd to be known; + His justice in the heathen's sight + he openly hath shown. + + He mindful of his grace and truth + to Isr'el's house hath been; + And the salvation of our God + all ends of th' earth have seen. + + Let all the earth unto the LORD + send forth a joyful noise; + Lift up your voice aloud to him, + sing praises, and rejoice. + + With harp, with harp, and voice of psalms, + unto JEHOVAH sing: + With trumpets, cornets, gladly sound + before the LORD the King. + + Let seas and all their fulness roar; + the world, and dwellers there; + Let floods clap hands, and let the hills + together joy declare + + Before the LORD; because he comes, + to judge the earth comes he: + He'll judge the world with righteousness, + his folk with equity. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm insists on the same subject as the two preceding; and + contains, (1.) Demands of praise to the Redeemer, for the wonders he + hath wrought; the victories he hath won; the discoveries he hath made; + and the promises he fulfils, ver. 1, 3. (2.) Demands of universal, and + high rejoicing at the erection and establishment of his gospel church; + and at his coming in the clouds to judge the world, ver. + 4-9.<br/><br/><br/>While my lips utter these lofty notes, let my soul, + according to this time also, say, What hath the Lord wrought? What is + Jesus what is Jehovah to my heart? What hath he done for mankind, + and what for my soul? What of Jesus what of Jehovah, have mine eyes + seen, and my heart tasted? And while I assuredly believe his return to + judgment, let me with ardour look for that blessed hope, and glorious + appearance of the great God my Saviour. Let my soul, with rapture, + spring forth to meet his burning chariot wheels, and long to see + creation all on flames. + + - number: 99 + suggested_tunes: + - Winchester + - Old 22nd + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Th' eternal LORD doth reign as king, + let all the people quake; + He sits between the cherubims, + let th' earth be mov'd and shake. + + The LORD in Zion great and high + above all people is; + Thy great and dreadful name (for it + is holy) let them bless. + + The king's strength also judgment loves; + thou settlest equity: + Just judgment thou dost execute + in Jacob righteously. + + The LORD our God exalt on high, + and rev'rently do ye + Before his footstool worship him: + the Holy One is he. + + Moses and Aaron 'mong his priests, + Samuel, with them that call + Upon his name: these called on GOD, + and he them answered all. + + Within the pillar of the cloud + he unto them did speak: + The testimonies he them taught, + and laws, they did not break. + + Thou answer'dst them, O LORD our God; + thou wast a God that gave + Pardon to them, though on their deeds + thou wouldest vengeance have. + + Do ye exalt the LORD our God, + and at his holy hill + Do ye him worship: for the LORD + our God is holy still. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is of the same general nature as the three preceding, and + calls men to revere, worship, and praise the Messiah, and his Father, + (1.) For the glory, greatness, mercy, and equity of his government, + ver. 1-5. (2.) For the instances of his kindness to Israel, in + remarkably regarding and honouring their noted deliverers and + reformers, ver. 6-9.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing this, let my soul + stand in awe of Jehovah's greatness and excellency. Let me call on God + in every time of need, that he may answer and save me. Let me hope + that he will forgive and subdue, but never that he will indulge, my + trans gressions: For the Lord my God is holy. + + - number: 100 + suggested_tunes: + - Old 100th + metre: L.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + All people that on earth do dwell, + Sing to the LORD with cheerful voice. + Him serve with mirth, his praise forth tell, + Come ye before him and rejoice. + + Know that the LORD is God indeed; + Without our aid he did us make: + We are his flock, he doth us feed, + And for his sheep he doth us take. + + O enter then his gates with praise, + Approach with joy his courts unto: + Praise, laud, and bless his name always, + For it is seemly so to do. + + For why? the LORD our God is good, + His mercy is for ever sure; + His truth at all times firmly stood, + And shall from age to age endure. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is of the same general nature as the three preceding, and + calls men to revere, worship, and praise the Messiah, and his Father, + (1.) For the glory, greatness, mercy, and equity of his government, + ver. 1-5. (2.) For the instances of his kindness to Israel, in + remarkably regarding and honouring their noted deliverers and + reformers, ver. 6-9.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing this, let my soul + stand in awe of Jehovah's greatness and excellency. Let me call on God + in every time of need, that he may answer and save me. Let me hope + that he will forgive and subdue, but never that he will indulge, my + trans gressions: For the Lord my God is holy. + + - number: 100 + suggested_tunes: + - Old 100th + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: true + text: | + O all ye lands, unto the LORD + make ye a joyful noise. + Serve GOD with gladness, him before + come with a singing voice. + + Know ye the LORD that he is God; + not we, but he us made: + We are his people, and the sheep + within his pasture fed. + + Enter his gates and courts with praise, + to thank him go ye thither: + To him express your thankfulness, + and bless his name together. + + Because the LORD our God is good, + his mercy faileth never; + And to all generätions + his truth endureth ever. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm, (1.) Contains a solemn call to the Gentiles to praise God, + and rejoice in him, ver. 1-4. (2.) Furnisheth us with matter of + praise, viz. that he is God, and stands nearly related to us, and that + his mercy and truth are everlasting, ver. 3, 5.<br/><br/><br/>Knowing + the Lord to be my God, let me approach his ordinances, and enter his + heavenly palaces, with a heart ravished with his excellencies and + kindness, and a mouth filled with his praise. + + - number: 101 + suggested_tunes: + - York + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + I mercy will and judgment sing, + LORD, I will sing to thee. + With wisdom in a perfect way + shall my behaviour be. + + O when, in kindness unto me, + wilt thou be pleased to come? + I with a perfect heart will walk + within my house at home. + + I will endure no wicked thing + before mine eyes to be: + I hate their work that turn aside, + it shall not cleave to me. + + A stubborn and a froward heart + depart quite from me shall; + A person giv'n to wickedness + I will not know at all. + + I'll cut him off that slandereth + his neighbour privily: + The haughty heart I will not bear, + nor him that looketh high. + + Upon the faithful of the land + mine eyes shall be, that they + May dwell with me: he shall me serve + that walks in perfect way. + + Who of deceit a worker is + in my house shall not dwell; + And in my presence shall he not + remain that lies doth tell. + + Yea, all the wicked of the land + early destroy will I; + All from GOD's city to cut off + that work iniquity. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed when David assumed the government of + his kingdom, and contains his holy resolutions, (1.) To make God's + mercies and judgments the connected matter of his song; and to walk + circumspectly before his family, through the assisting presence of + God, ver. 1-2. (2.) To purge his family and kingdom; discouraging and + punishing persons mischievous, wicked slanderers, liars, and deceitful + workers; and encouraging the pious, ver. 3-8.<br/><br/><br/>While I + sing, let me remember my faults, and in the strength of the grace that + is in Christ Jesus, form the like holy resolutions. + + - number: 102 + suggested_tunes: + - Martyrs + - Dundee + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O LORD, unto my pray'r give ear, + my cry let come to thee; + And in the day of my distress + hide not thy face from me. + + Give ear to me; what time I call, + to answer me make haste: + For, as an hearth, my bones are burnt, + my days, like smoke, do waste. + + My heart within me smitten is, + and it is witherèd + Like very grass; so that I do + forget to eat my bread. + + By reason of my groaning voice + my bones cleave to my skin. + Like pelican in wilderness + forsaken I have been: + + I like an owl in desert am, + that nightly there doth moan; + I watch, and like a sparrow am + on the house-top alone. + + My bitter en'mies all the day + reproaches cast on me; + And, being mad at me, with rage + against me sworn they be. + + For why? I ashes eaten have + like bread, in sorrows deep; + My drink I also mingled have + with tears that I did weep. + + Thy wrath and indignätion + did cause this grief and pain; + For thou hast lift me up on high, + and cast me down again. + + My days are like unto a shade, + which doth declining pass; + And I am dried and witherèd, + ev'n like unto the grass. + + But thou, LORD, everlasting art, + and thy remembrance shall + Continually endure, and be + to generations all. + + Thou shalt arise, and mercy have + upon thy Zion yet; + The time to favour her is come, + the time that thou hast set. + + For in her rubbish and her stones + thy servants pleasure take; + Yea, they the very dust thereof + do favour for her sake. + + So shall the heathen people fear + the LORD's most holy name; + And all the kings on earth shall dread + thy glory and thy fame. + + When Zion by the mighty LORD + built up again shall be, + In glory then and majesty + to men appear shall he. + + The prayèr of the destitute + he surely will regard; + Their prayèr will he not despise, + by him it shall be heard. + + For generations yet to come + this shall be on record: + So shall the people that shall be + created praise the LORD. + + He from his sanctuary's height + hath downward cast his eye; + And from his glorious throne in heaven + the LORD the earth did spy; + + That of the mournful prisoner + the groanings he might hear, + To set them free that unto death + by men appointed are: + + That they in Zion may declare + the LORD's most holy name, + And publish in Jerusalem + the praises of the same; + + When as the people gather shall + in troops with one accord, + When kingdoms shall assembled be + to serve the highest LORD. + + My wonted strength and force he hath + abated in the way, + And he my days hath shortenèd: + Thus therefore did I say, + + My God, in mid-time of my days + take thou me not away: + From age to age eternally + thy years endure and stay. + + The firm foundation of the earth + of old time thou hast laid; + The heavens also are the work + which thine own hands have made. + + Thou shalt for evermore endure, + but they shall perish all; + Yea, ev'ry one of them wax old, + like to a garment, shall: + + Thou, as a vesture, shalt them change, + and they shall changèd be: + But thou the same art, and thy years + are to eternity. + + The children of thy servants shall + continually endure; + And in thy sight, O Lord, their seed + shall be established sure. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed when David assumed the government of + his kingdom, and contains his holy resolutions, (1.) To make God's + mercies and judgments the connected matter of his song; and to walk + circumspectly before his family, through the assisting presence of + God, ver. 1-2. (2.) To purge his family and kingdom; discouraging and + punishing persons mischievous, wicked slanderers, liars, and deceitful + workers; and encouraging the pious, ver. 3-8.<br/><br/><br/>While I + sing, let me remember my faults, and in the strength of the grace that + is in Christ Jesus, form the like holy resolutions. + + - number: 102 + suggested_tunes: + - Martyrs + - Dundee + metre: L.M. + is_second_version: true + text: | + LORD, hear my pray'r, and let my cry + Have speedy access unto thee; + In day of my calamity + O hide not thou thy face from me. + + Hear when I call to thee; that day + An answer speedily return: + My days, like smoke, consume away, + And, as an hearth, my bones do burn. + + My heart is wounded very sore, + And witherèd, like grass doth fade: + I am forgetful grown therefore + To take and eat my daily bread. + + By reason of my smart within, + And voice of my most grievous groans, + My flesh consumèd is, my skin, + All parched, doth cleave unto my bones. + + The pelican of wilderness, + The owl in desert, I do match; + And, sparrow-like, companionless, + Upon the house's top, I watch. + + I all day long am made a scorn, + Reproached by my malicious foes: + The madmen are against me sworn, + The men against me that arose. + + For I have ashes eaten up, + To me as if they had been bread; + And with my drink I in my cup + Of bitter tears a mixture made. + + Because thy wrath was not appeased, + And dreadful indignätion: + Therefore it was that thou me raised, + And thou again didst cast me down. + + My days are like a shade alway, + Which doth declining swiftly pass; + And I am witherèd away, + Much like unto the fading grass. + + But thou, O LORD, shalt still endure, + From change and all mutation free, + And to all generations sure + Shall thy remembrance ever be. + + Thou shalt arise, and mercy yet + Thou to mount Zion shalt extend: + Her time for favour which was set, + Behold, is now come to an end. + + Thy saints take pleasure in her stones, + Her very dust to them is dear. + All heathen lands and kingly thrones + On earth thy glorious name shall fear. + + GOD in his glory shall appear, + When Zion he builds and repairs. + He shall regard and lend his ear + Unto the needy's humble pray'rs: + + Th' afflicted's pray'r he will not scorn. + All times this shall be on record: + And generations yet unborn + Shall praise and magnify the LORD. + + He from his holy place looked down, + The earth he viewed from heav'n on high; + To hear the pris'ner's mourning groan, + And free them that are doomed to die; + + That Zion, and Jerus'lem too, + His name and praise may well record, + When people and the kingdoms do + Assemble all to praise the LORD. + + My strength he weakened in the way, + My days of life he shortenèd. + My God, O take me not away + In mid-time of my days, I said: + + Thy years throughout all ages last. + Of old thou hast establishèd + The earth's foundation firm and fast: + Thy mighty hands the heav'ns have made. + + They perish shall, as garments do, + But thou shalt evermore endure; + As vestures, thou shalt change them so; + And they shall all be changèd sure: + + But from all changes thou art free; + Thy endless years do last for aye. + Thy servants, and their seed who be, + Established shall before thee stay. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm relates to some grievous distress; wherein are observable, + (1.) Bitter complaints of divine hidings and wrath; of sore bodily + troubles; of inward griefs and perplexities; of calumnious reproaches; + of sudden changes of condition, and of apparent nearness to death, + ver. 1-11. (2.) Seasonable comforts against these grievances, arising + from the eternity and unchangeableness of God, ver. 13, 24, 27; and + from the deliverances, spread, and establishment he will grant to his + church, in answer to the prayers, and for the comfort of his afflicted + people, ver. 13-28.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, think, my soul, if I + am exercised by my troubles; if these of the inner man bear heaviest + on my heart; and if I am a cordial partaker with Zion in her joys and + griefs. + + - number: 103 + suggested_tunes: + - London New + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O thou my soul, bless God the LORD; + and all that in me is + Be stirrèd up his holy name + to magnify and bless. + + Bless, O my soul, the LORD thy God, + and not forgetful be + Of all his gracious benefits + he hath bestowed on thee. + + All thine iniquities who doth + most graciously forgive: + Who thy diseases all and pains + doth heal, and thee relieve. + + Who doth redeem thy life, that thou + to death may'st not go down; + Who thee with loving-kindness doth + and tender mercies crown: + + Who with abundance of good things + doth satisfy thy mouth; + So that, ev'n as the eagle's age, + renewèd is thy youth. + + GOD righteous judgment executes + for all oppressèd ones. + His ways to Moses, he his acts + made known to Isr'el's sons. + + The LORD our God is merciful, + and he is gräcious, + Long-suffering, and slow to wrath, + in mercy plenteous. + + He will not chide continually, + nor keep his anger still. + With us he dealt not as we sinned, + nor did requite our ill. + + For as the heaven in its height + the earth surmounteth far; + So great to those that do him fear + his tender mercies are: + + As far as east is distant from + the west, so far hath he + From us removèd, in his love, + all our iniquity. + + Such pity as a father hath + unto his children dear; + Like pity shows the LORD to such + as worship him in fear. + + For he remembers we are dust, + and he our frame well knows. + Frail man, his days are like the grass, + as flow'r in field he grows: + + For over it the wind doth pass, + and it away is gone; + And of the place where once it was + it shall no more be known. + + But unto them that do him fear + GOD's mercy never ends; + And to their children's children still + his righteousness extends: + + To such as keep his covenant, + and mindful are alway + Of his most just commändments, + that they may them obey. + + The LORD preparèd hath his throne + in heavens firm to stand; + And everything that being hath + his kingdom doth command. + + O ye his angels, that excel + in strength, bless ye the LORD; + Ye who obey what he commands, + and hearken to his word. + + O bless and magnify the LORD, + ye glorious hosts of his; + Ye ministers, that do fulfil + whate'er his pleasure is. + + O bless the LORD, all ye his works, + wherewith the world is stored + In his dominions everywhere. + My soul, bless thou the LORD. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Here, (1.) The psalmist earnestly stirs up himself to praise God, for + favours to himself in particular; for pardon of sins, healing of + diseases, redemption from death, ver. 1-5; and for his mercies to his + people, in revealing his mind to them; pardoning their sins; + sympathizing with their weakness; pitying their afflictions; and + perpetuating his new-covenant mercy towards them and their seed, ver. + 6-18. (2.) Conscious of his own insufficiency, he requests the + assistance of angels, and of all the works of God, to praise Him who + is their sovereign, ver. 19-22.<br/><br/><br/>Thus, my soul, let all + my inward powers be stirred up to praise and thank my Redeemer, for + all that he hath done for me, and for his church on earth. + + - number: 104 + suggested_tunes: + - Glasgow + - St. Peter + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Bless GOD, my soul. O LORD my God, + thou art exceeding great; + With honour and with majesty + thou clothèd art in state. + + With light, as with a robe, thyself + thou coverest about; + And, like unto a curtain, thou + the heavens stretchest out. + + Who of his chambers doth the beams + within the waters lay; + Who doth the clouds his chariot make, + on wings of wind make way. + + Who flaming fire his ministers, + his angels spirits, doth make: + Who earth's foundätions did lay, + that it should never shake. + + Thou didst it cover with the deep, + as with a garment spread: + The waters stood above the hills, + when thou the word but said. + + But at the voice of thy rebuke + they fled, and would not stay; + They at thy thunder's dreadful voice + did haste them fast away. + + They by the mountains do ascend, + and by the valley-ground + Descend, unto that very place + which thou for them didst found. + + Thou hast a bound unto them set, + that they may not pass over, + That they do not return again + the face of earth to cover. + + He to the valleys sends the springs, + which run among the hills: + They to all beasts of field give drink, + wild asses drink their fills. + + By them the fowls of heav'n shall have + their habitätion, + Which do among the branches sing + with delectätion. + + He from his chambers watereth + the hills, when they are dried: + With fruit and increase of thy works + the earth is satisfied. + + For cattle he makes grass to grow, + he makes the herb to spring + For th' use of man, that food to him + he from the earth may bring; + + And wine, that to the heart of man + doth cheerfulness impart, + Oil that his face makes shine, and bread + that strengtheneth his heart. + + The trees of GOD are full of sap; + the cedars that do stand + In Lebanon, which planted were + by his almighty hand. + + Birds of the air upon their boughs + do choose their nests to make; + As for the stork, the fir-tree she + doth for her dwelling take. + + The lofty mountains for wild goats + a place of refuge be; + The conies also to the rocks + do for their safety flee. + + He sets the moon in heav'n, thereby + the seasons to discern: + From him the sun his certain time + of going down doth learn. + + Thou darkness mak'st, 'tis night, then beasts + of forests creep abroad. + The lions young roar for their prey, + and seek their meat from God. + + The sun doth rise, and home they flock, + down in their dens they lie. + Man goes to work, his labour he + doth to the evening ply. + + How manifold, LORD, are thy works! + in wisdom wonderful + Thou ev'ry one of them hast made; + earth's of thy riches full: + + So is this great and spacious sea, + wherein things creeping are, + Which numbered cannot be; and beasts + both great and small are there. + + There ships go; there thou mak'st to play + that leviàthan great. + These all wait on thee, that thou may'st + in due time give them meat. + + That which thou givest unto them + they gather for their food; + Thine hand thou open'st lib'rally, + they fillèd are with good. + + Thou hid'st thy face; they troubled are, + their breath thou tak'st away; + Then do they die, and to their dust + return again do they. + + Thy quick'ning spirit thou send'st forth, + then they created be; + And then the earth's decayèd face + renewèd is by thee. + + The glory of the mighty LORD + continue shall for ever: + The Lord JEHOVAH shall rejoice + in all his works together. + + Earth, as affrighted, trembleth all, + if he on it but look; + And if the mountains he but touch, + they presently do smoke. + + I will sing to the LORD most high, + so long as I shall live; + And while I being have I shall + to my God praises give. + + Of him my meditation shall + sweet thoughts to me afford; + And as for me, I will rejoice + in God, my only Lord. + + From earth let sinners be consumed, + let ill men no more be. + O thou my soul, bless thou the LORD. + Praise to the LORD give ye. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was perhaps composed along with the preceding one; and + contains, (1.) High celebrations of God, as the God of nature; + particularly of his appearances in his heavenly palaces, ver. 1-4; of + his creation of the sea and dry land, ver 5-9; of the provision he + makes for his creatures, according to their respective needs, ver. + 10-28; and of his sovereign dominion and influence over them, ver. + 29-32. (2.) Holy resolutions to meditate on, and praise the Lord, in + the view of his destruction of the wicked, ver. + 33-35.<br/><br/><br/>Lo! how the stretched heavens, how refulgent + luminaries, how fertile fields, how towering woods, how roaring seas, + how ranging brutes, how labouring men, how flaming seraphs, unite + their force to awaken my soul, to tune my heart to the high praises of + her Redeemer! Let me meet my God, my Christ, in every view. In every + sound let me hear his voice. In every form let me discern how great is + his goodness, and how great is his beauty! Nor let creation's lower + plains detain my heart: Let new-covenant relations to my unbounded + All, let redemption through his blood, fix all my thoughts, enrapture + all my inward powers; that I may sing anthems, all on fire, to Him who + loved me, and gave himself for me. + + - number: 105 + suggested_tunes: + - Petersham + - Glasgow + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Give thanks to GOD, call on his name; + to men his deeds make known. + Sing ye to him, sing psalms; proclaim + his wondrous works each one. + + See that ye in his holy name + to glory do accord; + And let the heart of everyone + rejoice that seeks the LORD. + + The LORD Almighty, and his strength, + with stedfast hearts seek ye: + His blessèd and his gracious face + seek ye continually. + + Think on the works that he hath done, + which admiration breed; + His wonders, and the judgments all + which from his mouth proceed; + + O ye that are of Abr'ham's race, + his servant well approv'n; + And ye that Jacob's children are, + whom he chose for his own. + + Because he, and he only, is + the mighty LORD our God; + And his most righteous judgments are + in all the earth abroad. + + His cov'nant he remembered hath, + that it may ever stand: + To thousand generätions + the word he did command. + + Which covènant he firmly made + with faithful Abraham, + And unto Isaac, by his oath, + he did renew the same: + + And unto Jacob, for a law, + he made it firm and sure, + A covènant to Israèl, + which ever should endure. + + He said, I'll give Canàan's land + for heritage to you; + While they were strangers there, and few, + in number very few: + + While yet they went from land to land + without a sure abode; + And while through sundry kingdoms they + did wander far abroad; + + Yet, notwithstanding, suffered he + no man to do them wrong: + Yea, for their sakes, he did reprove + kings, who were great and strong. + + Thus did he say, Touch ye not those + that mine anointed be, + Nor do the prophets any harm + that do pertain to me. + + He called for famine on the land, + he brake the staff of bread: + But yet he sent a man before, + by whom they should be fed; + + Ev'n Joseph, whom unnaturally + sell for a slave did they; + Whose feet with fetters they did hurt, + and he in irons lay; + + Until the time that his word came + to give him liberty; + The word and purpose of the LORD + did him in prison try. + + Then sent the king, and did command + that he enlarged should be: + He that the people's ruler was + did send to set him free. + + A lord to rule his family + he raised him, as most fit; + To him of all that he possessed + he did the charge commit: + + That he might at his pleasure bind + the princes of the land; + And he might teach his senators + wisdom to understand. + + The people then of Israèl + down into Egypt came; + And Jacob also sojournèd + within the land of Ham. + + And he did greatly by his power + increase his people there; + And stronger than their enemies + they by his blessing were. + + Their heart he turnèd to envy + his folk maliciously, + With those that his own servants were + to deal in subtlety. + + His servant Moses he did send, + Aaron his chosen one. + By these his signs and wonders great + in Ham's land were made known. + + Darkness he sent, and made it dark; + his word they did obey. + He turned their waters into blood, + and he their fish did slay. + + The land in plenty brought forth frogs + in chambers of their kings. + His word all sorts of flies and lice + in all their borders brings. + + He hail for rain, and flaming fire + into their land he sent: + And he their vines and fig-trees smote; + trees of their coasts he rent. + + He spake, and caterpillars came, + locusts did much abound; + Which in their land all herbs consumed, + and all fruits of their ground. + + He smote all first-born in their land, + chief of their strength each one. + With gold and silver brought them forth, + weak in their tribes were none. + + Egypt was glad when forth they went, + their fear on them did light. + He spread a cloud for covering, + and fire to shine by night. + + They asked, and he brought quails: with bread + of heav'n he fillèd them. + He opened rocks, floods gushed, and ran + in deserts like a stream. + + For on his holy promise he, + and servant Abr'ham, thought. + With joy his people, his elect + with gladness, forth he brought. + + And unto them the pleasant lands + he of the heathen gave; + That of the people's labour they + inheritance might have. + + That they his statutes might observe + according to his word; + And that they might his laws obey. + Give praise unto the LORD. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was a part of the solemn hymn sung at the translation of + the ark from the house of Obed-edom to the city of David, 1Chron. 16; + and contains, (1.) Solemn calls to meditate on, seek, magnify, and + praise God, who is so great, so gracious, and so nearly connected with + us, ver. 1-7. (2.) A narrative of the particular mercies of God to + Israel for the space of 480 years, as grounds of praise: Particularly, + his covenant with their patriarchs, ver. 8-11; his care of them, while + strangers and sojourners, ver. 12-15; his advancement of Joseph, to be + the shepherd and stone of Israel, ver. 16-22; his increasing of them + in Egypt, and at last delivering them from it, in the way of + inflicting manifold plagues on the Egyptians, ver. 23-38; and his care + of them in the wilderness, and setting them in Canaan, as a peculiar + people to himself, ver. 39-45.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let my + soul, with affecting wonder, think what God is to me; and what he hath + done for me, and for his church, in prosecution of his covenant + engagements with Jesus Christ. + + - number: 106 + suggested_tunes: + - Dunfermline + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Give praise and thanks unto the LORD, + for bountiful is he; + His tender mercy doth endure + unto eternity. + + GOD's mighty works who can express? + or show forth all his praise? + Blessèd are they that judgment keep, + and justly do always. + + Remember me, LORD, with that love + which thou to thine dost bear; + With thy salvation, O my God, + to visit me draw near: + + That I thy chosen's good may see, + and in their joy rejoice; + And may with thine inheritance + triumph with cheerful voice. + + We with our fathers sinnèd have, + and of iniquity + Too long we have the workers been; + we have done wickedly. + + The wonders great, which thou, O Lord, + didst work in Egypt land, + Our fathers, though they saw, yet them + they did not understand: + + And they thy mercies' multitude + kept not in memory; + But at the sea, ev'n the Red Sea, + provoked him grievously. + + Nevertheless he savèd them, + ev'n for his own name's sake; + That so he might to be well known + his mighty powèr make. + + When he the Red Sea did rebuke, + then drièd up it was: + Through depths, as through the wilderness, + he safely made them pass. + + From hands of those that hated them + he did his people save; + And from the en'my's cruel hand + to them redemption gave. + + The waters overwhelmed their foes; + not one was left alive. + Then they believed his word, and praise + to him in songs did give. + + But soon did they his mighty works + forget unthankfully, + And on his counsel and his will + did not wait patiently; + + But much did lust in wilderness, + and God in desert tempt. + He gave them what they sought, but to + their soul he leanness sent. + + And against Moses in the camp + their envy did appear; + At Aaron they, the saint of GOD, + envìous also were. + + Therefore the earth did open wide, + and Dathan did devour, + And all Abiram's company + did cover in that hour. + + Likewise among their company + a fire was kindled then; + And so the hot consuming flame + burnt up these wicked men. + + Upon the hill of Horeb they + an idol-calf did frame, + A molten image they did make, + and worshippèd the same. + + And thus their glory, and their God, + most vainly changèd they + Into the likeness of an ox + that eateth grass or hay. + + They did forget the mighty God, + that had their saviour been, + By whom such great things brought to pass + they had in Egypt seen. + + In Ham's land he did wondrous works, + things terrible did he, + When he his mighty hand and arm + stretched out at the Red Sea. + + Then said he, He would them destroy, + had not, his wrath to stay, + His chosen Moses stood in breach, + that them he should not slay. + + Yea, they despised the pleasant land, + believèd not his word: + But in their tents they murmurèd, + not heark'ning to the LORD. + + Therefore in desert them to slay + he lifted up his hand: + 'Mong nations to o'erthrow their seed, + and scatter in each land. + + They unto Bàal-pèor did + themselves associate; + The sacrifices of the dead + they did profanely eat. + + Thus, by their lewd invëntions, + they did provoke his ire; + And then upon them suddenly + the plague brake in as fire. + + Then Phin'has rose, and justice did, + and so the plague did cease; + That to all ages counted was + to him for righteousness. + + And at the waters, where they strove, + they did him angry make, + In such sort, that it farèd ill + with Moses for their sake: + + Because they there his spirit meek + provokèd bitterly, + So that he uttered with his lips + words unadvisedly. + + Nor, as the LORD commanded them, + did they the nations slay: + But with the heathen mingled were, + and learned of them their way. + + And they their idols served, which did + a snare unto them turn. + Their sons and daughters they to devils + in sacrifice did burn. + + In their own children's guiltless blood + their hands they did imbrue, + Whom to Canàan's idols they + for sacrifices slew: + + So was the land defiled with blood. + They stained with their own way, + And with their own invëntions + a whoring they did stray. + + Against his people kindled was + the wrath of GOD therefore, + Insomuch that he did his own + inheritance abhor. + + He gave them to the heathen's hand; + their foes did them command. + Their en'mies them oppressed, they were + made subject to their hand. + + He many times delivered them; + but with their counsel so + They him provoked, that for their sin + they were brought very low. + + Yet their affliction he beheld, + when he did hear their cry: + And he for them his covenant + did call to memory; + + After his mercies' multitude + he did repent: And made + Them to be pitied of all those + who did them captive lead. + + O LORD our God, us save, and gather + the heathen from among, + That we thy holy name may praise + in a triumphant song. + + Blessed be JEHOVAH, Isr'el's God, + to all eternity: + Let all the people say, Amen. + Praise to the LORD give ye. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm may be considered as a supplement to the preceding. That + exhibited to our view, the marvellous kindness of God to Israel: this + exhibits the fearful rebellions of Israel against their gracious God. + We have, (1.) A preface, ascribing praise to God, exhibiting comfort + to his saints, and requesting favours from God, ver. 1-5. (2.) An + alarming confession or narrative of Israel's wickedness against their + God, notwithstanding his marvellous kindness to them; in provoking him + at the Red Sea, ver 6-12; in lusting after sensual gratifications, ver + 13-15; in mutinying against his vicegerents, ver. 16-18; in + worshipping the golden calf, ver. 19-23; in murmuring contempt of the + promised land, ver. 24-27; in joining with the Moabites and + Midianites, in the worship of Baal-peor, ver. 28-31; in quarrelling + with Moses at Kadesh, ver. 32-33; in incorporating themselves with the + Canaanites, and imitating their idolatrous and cruel customs, ver. + 34-39. (3.) An affecting view of God's great compassion to Israel, + notwithstanding they had provoked him to inflict sore and almost + destructive punishments upon them, ver. 40-46. (4.) An affectionate + improvement of his kindness, in imploring his powerful deliverance, + and ascription of endless praises to his name, ver. + 47-48.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let my soul be deeply affected with + the dreadful nature of sin, and with men's obstinacy, nay mine own + obstinacy therein. Let me, with amazement, behold the unbounded mercy + of God to men; in that where sin hath abounded grace doth much more + abound. + + - number: 107 + suggested_tunes: + - Kilmarnock + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Praise GOD, for he is good: for still + his mercies lasting be. + Let GOD's redeemed say so, whom he + from th' en'my's hand did free; + + And gathered them out of the lands, + from north, south, east, and west. + They strayed in desert's pathless way, + no city found to rest. + + For thirst and hunger in them faints + their soul. When straits them press, + They cry unto the LORD, and he + them frees from their distress. + + Them also in a way to walk + that right is he did guide, + That they might to a city go, + wherein they might abide. + + O that men to the LORD would give + praise for his goodness then, + And for his works of wonder done + unto the sons of men! + + For he the soul that longing is + doth fully satisfy; + With goodness he the hungry soul + doth fill abundantly. + + Such as shut up in darkness deep, + and in death's shade abide, + Whom strongly hath affliction bound, + and irons fast have tied: + + Because against the words of God + they wrought rebelliously, + And they the counsel did contemn + of him that is Most High: + + Their heart he did bring down with grief, + they fell, no help could have. + In trouble then they cried to GOD, + he them from straits did save. + + He out of darkness did them bring, + and from death's shade them take; + These bands, wherewith they had been bound, + asunder quite he brake. + + O that men to the LORD would give + praise for his goodness then, + And for his works of wonder done + unto the sons of men! + + Because the mighty gates of brass + in pieces he did tear, + By him in sunder also cut + the bars of iron were. + + Fools, for their sin, and their offence, + do sore affliction bear; + All kind of meat their soul abhors; + they to death's gates draw near. + + In grief they cry to GOD; he saves + them from their miseries. + He sends his word, them heals, and them + from their destruction frees. + + O that men to the LORD would give + praise for his goodness then, + And for his works of wonder done + unto the sons of men! + + And let them sacrifice to him + off'rings of thankfulness; + And let them show abroad his works + in songs of joyfulness. + + Who go to sea in ships, and in + great waters trading be, + Within the deep these men GOD's works + and his great wonders see. + + For he commands, and forth in haste + the stormy tempest flies, + Which makes the sea with rolling waves + aloft to swell and rise. + + They mount to heav'n, then to the depths + they do go down again; + Their soul doth faint and melt away + with trouble and with pain. + + They reel and stagger like one drunk, + at their wit's end they be: + Then they to GOD in trouble cry, + who them from straits doth free. + + The storm is changed into a calm + at his command and will; + So that the waves, which raged before, + now quiet are and still. + + Then are they glad, because at rest + and quiet now they be: + So to the haven he them brings, + which they desired to see. + + O that men to the LORD would give + praise for his goodness then, + And for his works of wonder done + unto the sons of men! + + Among the people gatherèd + let them exalt his name; + Among assembled elders spread + his most renownèd fame. + + He to dry land turns water-springs, + and floods to wilderness; + For sins of those that dwell therein, + fat land to barrenness. + + The burnt and parchèd wilderness + to water-pools he brings; + The ground that was dried up before + he turns to water-springs: + + And there, for dwelling, he a place + doth to the hungry give, + That they a city may prepare + commodiously to live. + + There sow they fields, and vineyards plant, + to yield fruits of increase. + His blessing makes them multiply, + lets not their beasts decrease. + + Again they are diminishèd, + and very low brought down, + Through sorrow and afflïction, + and great opprëssion. + + He upon princes pours contempt, + and causeth them to stray, + And wander in a wilderness, + wherein there is no way. + + Yet setteth he the poor on high + from all his miseries, + And he, much like unto a flock, + doth make him families. + + They that are righteous shall rejoice, + when they the same shall see; + And, as ashamèd, stop her mouth + shall all iniquity. + + Whoso is wise, and will these things + observe, and them record, + Ev'n they shall understand the love + and kindness of the LORD. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm may be considered as an appendix to the two foregoing. + Those represented the providence of God towards his chosen Israelites, + who prefigured his gospel church: this, (1.) represents the + providences of God to the children of men in general, and calls them + to praise him for his kindness and mercy therein: particularly, 1. In + directing and gathering travellers, whom he had justly dispersed, ver. + 1-7. 2. In delivering prisoners, whom he had justly confined, ver. + 8-14. 3. In healing the sick, whom he had justly plagued, ver. 15-22. + 4. In relieving mariners, whom he had justly bestormed, ver. 23-30. 5. + In changing the condition of territories, persons, and families, at + his pleasure, to the comfort of his people, and the restraining of + wickedness, ver. 7-42. (2.) It encourageth me to a careful observation + of God's providences, ver. 43.<br/><br/><br/>Let me sing this, with a + heart deeply affected with the various providences of God towards + myself and others, while we have walked by the way; been confined in + prisons, or lain on beds of languishing; traversed the surface of the + depths, or laboured in our respective employments. Let me be a careful + observer of providences, and compare them with the oracles of God, + with my behaviour, and my prayers, and also with one another: so shall + I understand the loving kindness of the Lord. + + - number: 108 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Asaph + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + My heart is fixed, Lord; I will sing, + and with my glory praise. + Awake up psaltery and harp; + myself I'll early raise. + + I'll praise thee 'mong the people, LORD; + 'mong nations sing will I: + For above heav'n thy mercy's great, + thy truth doth reach the sky. + + Be thou above the heavens, Lord, + exalted gloriously; + Thy glory all the earth above + be lifted up on high. + + That those who thy belovèd are + deliverèd may be, + O do thou save with thy right hand, + and answer give to me. + + God in his holiness hath said, + Herein I will take pleasure; + Shechem I will divide, and forth + will Succoth's valley measure. + + Gilead I claim as mine by right; + Manasseh mine shall be; + Ephraim is of my head the strength; + Judah gives laws for me; + + Moab's my washing-pot; my shoe + I'll over Edom throw; + Over the land of Palestine + I will in triumph go. + + O who is he will bring me to + the city fortified? + O who is he that to the land + of Edom will me guide? + + O God, thou who hadst cast us off, + this thing wilt thou not do? + And wilt not thou, ev'n thou, O God, + forth with our armies go? + + Do thou from trouble give us help, + for helpless is man's aid. + Through God we shall do valiantly; + our foes he shall down tread. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + The first five verses of this psalm are taken from Psalm 57:7-12; and + contain praises and thanksgivings to God. The other eight are taken + from Psalm 60:5-12; and contain prayers for, and hopes of promised + mercies.<br/><br/><br/>Never scruple, my soul, to think, or to sing, + or to pray over, the same subjects of importance; but let there be + always a newness of affection, and newness of spiritual vigour. + + - number: 109 + suggested_tunes: + - Bangor + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O thou the God of all my praise, + do thou not hold thy peace; + For mouths of wicked men to speak + against me do not cease: + + The mouths of vile deceitful men + against me opened be; + And with a false and lying tongue + they have accusèd me. + + They did beset me round about + with words of hateful spite; + And though to them no cause I gave, + against me they did fight. + + They for my love became my foes, + but I me set to pray. + Evil for good, hatred for love, + to me they did repay. + + Set thou the wicked over him; + and upon his right hand + Give thou his greatest enemy, + ev'n Satan, leave to stand. + + And when by thee he shall be judged, + let him condemnèd be; + And let his pray'r be turned to sin, + when he shall call on thee. + + Few be his days, and in his room + his charge another take. + His children let be fatherless, + his wife a widow make. + + His children let be vagabonds, + and beg continually; + And from their places desolate + seek bread for their supply. + + Let covetous extortioners + catch all he hath away: + Of all for which he laboured hath + let strangers make a prey. + + Let there be none to pity him, + let there be none at all + That on his children fatherless + will let his mercy fall. + + Let his posterity from earth + cut off for ever be, + And in the foll'wing age their name + be blotted out by thee. + + Let GOD his father's wickedness + still to remembrance call; + And never let his mother's sin + be blotted out at all. + + But let them all before the LORD + appear continually, + That he may wholly from the earth + cut off their memory. + + Because he mercy minded not, + but persecuted still + The poor and needy, that he might + the broken-hearted kill. + + As he in cursing pleasure took, + so let it to him fall; + As he delighted not to bless, + so bless him not at all. + + As cursing he like clothes put on, + into his bowels so, + Like water, and into his bones, + like oil, down let it go. + + Like to the garment let it be + which doth himself array, + And for a girdle, wherewith he + is girt about alway. + + From GOD let this be their reward + that en'mies are to me, + And their reward that speak against + my soul maliciously. + + But do thou, for thine own name's sake, + O GOD the Lord, for me: + Sith good and sweet thy mercy is, + from trouble set me free. + + For I am poor and indigent, + afflicted sore am I, + My heart within me also is + wounded exceedingly. + + I pass like a declining shade, + am like the locust tossed: + My knees through fasting weakened are, + my flesh hath fatness lost. + + I also am a vile reproach + unto them made to be; + And they that did upon me look + did shake their heads at me. + + O do thou help and succour me, + who art my God and LORD: + And, for thy tender mercy's sake, + safety to me afford: + + That thereby they may know that this + is thy almighty hand; + And that thou, LORD, hast done the same, + they may well understand. + + Although they curse with spite, yet, Lord, + bless thou with loving voice: + Let them ashamed be when they rise; + thy servant let rejoice. + + Let thou mine adversaries all + with shame be clothèd over; + And let their own confüsion + them, as a mantle, cover. + + But as for me, I with my mouth + will greatly praise the LORD; + And I among the multitude + his praises will record. + + For he shall stand at his right hand + who is in poverty, + To save him from all those that would + condemn his soul to die. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Probably David penned this psalm with a view to Doeg or Ahithophel, + and hence it is much like the 41st, 52nd, 55th, 124th, and 140th. But + the Holy Ghost herein hath a mediate respect to Jesus, and to Judas + the traitor, Acts 1:20. Observe, (1.) The psalmist's bitter complaints + of his enemies, as spiteful, deceitful, false, restless, unjust, + ungrateful, ver. 1-5. (2.) His fearful denunciations of divine + vengeance against his distinguished foe; that he should be delivered + into the hand of Satan; should have his prayers rejected, his life + shortened, his substance wasted, and his posterity rendered miserable, + ver. 6-20. (3.) His lamentation over his inward trouble, his + approaching death, his instability of condition, pining sickness, + reproach of enemies; and his prayers for mercy to himself, confusion + to his enemies, and glory to his God, ver. 21-29. (4.) His triumph in + God, as his supporter and deliverer amidst all his troubles, ver. + 30-31.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me be affected with the + sufferings of my Redeemer, and with the misery of these Jews and + others, who abandon themselves to be his obstinate opposers. Let me + implore, and by faith foresee the complete ruin of all my spiritual + enemies; and the full redemption of my soul, and of the whole mystical + body of Christ, notwithstanding all our sinful poverty and plagues. + + - number: 110 + suggested_tunes: + - London New + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + The LORD did say unto my Lord, + Sit thou at my right hand, + Until I make thy foes a stool, + whereon thy feet may stand. + + The LORD shall out of Zion send + the rod of thy great pow'r: + In midst of all thine enemies + be thou the governor. + + A willing people in thy day + of pow'r shall come to thee, + In holy beauties from morn's womb; + thy youth like dew shall be. + + The LORD himself hath made an oath, + and will repent him never, + Of th' order of Melchizedek + thou art a priest for ever. + + The glorious and mighty Lord, + that sits at thy right hand, + Shall, in his day of wrath, strike through + kings that do him withstand. + + He shall among the heathen judge, + he shall with bodies dead + The places fill: o'er many lands + he wound shall ev'ry head. + + The brook that runneth in the way + with drink shall him supply; + And, for this cause, in triumph he + shall lift his head on high. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm relates wholly to Jesus Christ: and represents him, (1.) In + his glorious offices; as a Prophet, gathering the nations by the + proclamations of his gospel, the rod of his strength, ver. 2-3; as our + great High Priest, ver. 4; and as our exalted, victorious, and + governing King, ver. 2-3, 5-6. (2.) In his diversified states of + debasement and exaltation, ver. 7 and 1, 5.<br/><br/><br/>While I + sing, let mine eyes be fixed, wholly fixed, on my glorious Redeemer. + Behold! how, having by himself purged our sins, he sat down on the + right hand of the Majesty on high! Behold him, by the word of his + grace, subduing multitudes of sinful men to himself! Behold him able + to save to the uttermost, because he ever liveth to make intercession + for us. And let my mouth be filled with hallelujahs and hosannas in + the highest to Him, who, by water and by blood, cometh in the name of + the Lord to save me. + + - number: 111 + suggested_tunes: + - Winchester + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Praise ye the LORD: with my whole heart + I will GOD's praise declare, + Where the assemblies of the just + and congregations are. + + The whole works of the LORD our God + are great above all measure, + Sought out they are of everyone + that doth therein take pleasure. + + His work most honourable is, + most glorious and pure, + And his untainted righteousness + for ever doth endure. + + His works most wonderful he hath + made to be thought upon: + The LORD is gracious, and he is + full of compässion. + + He giveth meat unto all those + that truly do him fear; + And evermore his covenant + he in his mind will bear. + + He did the power of his works + unto his people show, + When he the heathen's heritage + upon them did bestow. + + His handiworks are truth and right; + all his commands are sure: + And, done in truth and uprightness, + they evermore endure. + + He sent redemption to his folk; + his covenant for aye + He did command: holy his name + and rev'rend is alway. + + Wisdom's beginning is GOD's fear: + good understanding they + Have all that his commands fulfil: + his praise endures for aye. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + In this psalm, every sentence of which begins with a new letter of the + Hebrew alphabet, we have, (1.) The praising of God inculcated and + exemplified, ver. 1. (2.) The grounds of praise exhibited, viz. that + God himself is gracious and full of compassion, and ever mindful of + his covenant; and that his works are magnificent, pleasant, righteous, + wonderful, perfect, kind, prudent, and durable; and all conformed to + his promise and covenant, ver. 2-9. (3.) A recommendation of a holy + and reverential obedience to God, as the beginning of wisdom, ver. + 10.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let my heart be all inflamed with the + believing consideration of the marvellous works of redemption, as + wrought for and on my soul; and filled with that love, which casteth + out slavish fear, but powerfully promotes the filial reverence and awe + of God. + + - number: 112 + suggested_tunes: + - Caithness + - Praetorius + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Praise ye the LORD. The man is blessed + that fears the LORD aright, + He who in his commändments + doth greatly take delight. + + His seed and offspring powerful + shall be the earth upon: + Of upright men blessèd shall be + the generätion. + + Riches and wealth shall ever be + within his house in store; + And his unspotted righteousness + endures for evermore. + + Unto the upright light doth rise, + though he in darkness be: + Compassionate, and merciful, + and rïghteous, is he. + + A good man doth his favour show, + and doth to others lend: + He with discretion his affairs + will guide unto the end. + + Surely there is not any thing + that ever shall him move: + The righteous man's memorial + shall everlasting prove. + + When he shall evil tidings hear, + he shall not be afraid: + His heart is fixed, his confidence + upon the LORD is stayed. + + His heart is firmly stablishèd, + afraid he shall not be, + Until upon his enemies + he his desire shall see. + + He hath dispersed, giv'n to the poor, + his righteousness shall be + To ages all; with honour shall + his horn be raisèd high. + + The wicked shall it see, and fret, + his teeth gnash, melt away: + What wicked men do most desire + shall utterly decay. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is also alphabetically composed; and contains, (1.) + Invitations to praise God, ver. 1. (2.) A delineation of the saints' + character and blessedness: that they are well principled, honest, + sincere, and kind; and shall be blessed with prosperity, outward and + inward, with comfort amidst griefs, wisdom amidst perplexity, and with + honour and stability; and shall have their posterity blessed after + them, ver. 2-9. (3.) The misery of the wicked, ver. + 10.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing this, let me try my character, and + rejoice in hope of being blessed in Christ Jesus, with all spiritual, + temporal, and everlasting blessings. + + - number: 113 + suggested_tunes: + - Irish + - St. Asaph + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Praise GOD: ye servants of the LORD, + O praise, the LORD's name praise. + Yea, blessèd be the name of GOD + from this time forth always. + + From rising sun to where it sets, + GOD's name is to be praised. + Above all nations GOD is high, + 'bove heav'ns his glory raised. + + Unto the LORD our God that dwells + on high, who can compare? + Himself that humbleth things to see + in heav'n and earth that are. + + He from the dust doth raise the poor, + that very low doth lie; + And from the dunghill lifts the man + oppressed with poverty; + + That he may highly him advance, + and with the princes set; + With those that of his people are + the chief, ev'n princes great. + + The barren woman house to keep + he maketh, and to be + Of sons a mother full of joy. + Praise to the LORD give ye. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm, with the five immediately following, were called the great + Hallelujah, and used to be sung at the Passover supper (Matt. 26:30). + Here, (1.) We are solemnly called to celebrate the praises of God, + ver. 1-3. (2.) We are plentifully furnished with matter of praise, + viz. the heights of his glory and greatness, and the depths of his + condescension and grace, ver. 4-9.<br/><br/><br/>Think, O my soul, + what the Lord hath done for me, and for mine, and for mankind! + + - number: 114 + suggested_tunes: + - Petersham + - Effingham + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + When Isr'el out of Egypt went, + and did his dwelling change, + When Jacob's house went out from those + that were of language strange, + + He Judah did his sanctuary, + his kingdom Isr'el make: + The sea it saw, and quickly fled, + Jordan was driven back. + + Like rams the mountains, and like lambs + the hills skipped to and fro. + O sea, why fledd'st thou? Jordan, back + why wast thou driven so? + + Ye mountains great, wherefore was it + that ye did skip like rams? + And wherefore was it, little hills, + that ye did leap like lambs? + + O at the presence of the Lord, + earth, tremble thou for fear, + While as the presence of the God + of Jacob doth appear: + + Who from the hard and stony rock + did standing water bring; + And by his pow'r did turn the flint + into a water-spring. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + In this psalm are celebrated, (1.) God's bringing Israel out of their + Egyptian slavery, ver. 1. (2.) His setting up his tabernacle among + them, and taking them for his peculiar people, ver. 2. (3.) His + dividing the Red sea and Jordan before them, ver. 3, 5. (4.) His awful + descent on Mount Sinai, to give them his law, ver. 4, 6-7. (5.) His + providing them with water from the flinty rock, ver. + 8.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let my soul be affected with the grace, + the glory, the power of my God; and with the mighty things he hath + done for men, chiefly in the work of our redemption and be + encouraged to trust him in the greatest straits. + + - number: 115 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Thomas + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Not unto us, LORD, not to us, + but do thou glory take + Unto thy name, ev'n for thy truth, + and for thy mercy's sake. + + O wherefore should the heathen say, + Where is their God now gone? + But our God in the heavens is, + what pleased him he hath done. + + Their idols silver are and gold, + work of men's hands they be. + Mouths have they, but they do not speak; + and eyes, but do not see; + + Ears have they, but they do not hear; + noses, but savour not; + Hands, feet, but handle not, nor walk; + nor speak they through their throat. + + Like them their makers are, and all + on them their trust that build. + O Isr'el, trust thou in the LORD, + he is their help and shield. + + O Aaron's house, trust in the LORD, + their help and shield is he. + Ye that fear God, trust in the LORD, + their help and shield he'll be. + + The LORD of us hath mindful been, + and he will bless us still: + He will the house of Isr'el bless, + bless Aaron's house he will. + + Both small and great, that fear the LORD, + he will them surely bless. + The LORD will you, you and your seed, + aye more and more increase. + + O blessèd are ye of the LORD, + who made the earth and heav'n. + The heav'n, ev'n heav'ns, are GOD's, but he + earth to men's sons hath giv'n. + + The dead, nor who to silence go, + GOD's praise do not record. + But henceforth we for ever will + bless GOD. Praise ye the LORD. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm instructs us, (1.) To whom glory and praise ought to be + ascribed: not to ourselves, but to God's mercy and truth, ver. 1; not + to lifeless, senseless idols, but to God, whose throne is in the + heavens, and who doeth whatever he pleaseth, ver. 2-8, 15-16. (2.) How + we are to glorify God: 1. By trusting in him, crediting his promise + and receiving his blessings, ver. 9-15. 2. By blessing him while we + live, ver. 17-18.<br/><br/><br/>Learn, my soul, to deny thyself; to + take up thy cross and follow Christ; and to keep thyself from idols. + But, make Jehovah, as reconciled in Christ, thy portion, thy trust, + thy help, thy shield, thy blessedness, thy comfort, thy praise; and + consider thine earthly enjoyments as the gracious gifts of thy God, + and an earnest of thy far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. + + - number: 116 + suggested_tunes: + - Wigtown + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + I love the LORD, because my voice + and prayers he did hear. + I, while I live, will call on him, + who bowed to me his ear. + + Of death the cords and sorrows did + about me compass round; + The pains of hell took hold on me, + I grief and trouble found. + + Upon the name of God the LORD + then did I call, and say, + Deliver thou my soul, O LORD, + I do thee humbly pray. + + GOD merciful and righteous is, + yea, gracious is our LORD. + GOD saves the meek: I was brought low, + he did me help afford. + + O thou my soul, do thou return + unto thy quiet rest; + For largely, lo, the LORD to thee + his bounty hath expressed. + + For my distressèd soul from death + delivered was by thee: + Thou didst my mourning eyes from tears, + my feet from falling, free. + + I in the land of those that live + will walk the LORD before. + I did believe, therefore I spake: + I was afflicted sore. + + I said, when I was in my haste, + that all men liars be. + What shall I render to the LORD + for all his gifts to me? + + I'll of salvation take the cup, + on GOD's name will I call: + I'll pay my vows now to the LORD + before his people all. + + Dear in GOD's sight is his saints' death. + Thy servant, LORD, am I; + Thy servant sure, thine handmaid's son: + my bands thou didst untie. + + Thank-off'rings I to thee will give, + and on GOD's name will call. + I'll pay my vows now to the LORD + before his people all; + + Within the courts of GOD's own house, + within the midst of thee, + O city of Jerusalem. + Praise to the LORD give ye. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This is a psalm of thanksgiving, somewhat similar to the 18th, 30th, + 40th, and 103rd; and represents, (1.) The psalmist's great distress + and danger, which had almost driven him to despair, ver. 3, 10-11. + (2.) The application he made to God by prayer, for relief; and his + experience of God's gracious kindness, in granting his requests, in + hearing, pitying, and delivering him, ver. 1-2, 4-6, 8. (3.) His + sincere and hearty resolutions, to make a grateful acknowledgment of + God's kindness; by loving him, ver. 1; continuing to call on him and + receive from him, ver. 2, 13, 17; resting in him, ver. 7; walking + before him as his devoted servant, ver. 9, 16; public confession of + God's tender regard to him, ver. 12, 15; and sincere and public paying + of his vows to God, ver. 10-19.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me + think, as before God, what of these blessings I have experienced + what of these duties I have earnestly practised. If God hath redeemed + me from the broken law; from the lowest hell; from the mouth of the + infernal lion; and from the power of my corrupt lusts: then let my + soul, and all that is within me, be stirred up to bless his holy name; + and let me never lose the heart-animating impressions of his benefits. + + - number: 117 + suggested_tunes: + - Praetorius + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O give ye praise unto the LORD, + all nätions that be; + Likewise, ye people all, accord + his name to magnify. + + For great to us-ward ever are + his loving-kindnesses: + His truth endures for evermore. + The LORD O do ye bless. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm relates to the gospel church. Here are, (1.) A short, but + solemn call, to the redeemed of all nations, to praise their God, ver. + 1. (2.) Rich matter of praise suggested, viz. the unbounded mercy and + everlasting faithfulness of God; and hence the fulness, kindness, and + stability of his covenant promises, and the accomplishment thereof, + ver. 2.<br/><br/><br/>If the psalm be short, let me sing in the full + assurance of faith, and with a heart all inflamed with the loving + kindness, and all enraptured with admiration of the goodness of God, + towards men, towards the Gentiles, and towards my soul. + + - number: 118 + suggested_tunes: + - Cheshire + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O praise the LORD, for he is good; + his mercy lasteth ever. + Let those of Israèl now say, + His mercy faileth never. + + Now let the house of Aaron say, + His mercy lasteth ever. + Let those that fear the LORD now say, + His mercy faileth never. + + I in distress called on the LORD; + the LORD did answer me: + He in a large place did me set, + from trouble made me free. + + The mighty LORD is on my side, + I will not be afraid; + For anything that man can do + I shall not be dismayed. + + The LORD doth take my part with them + that help to succour me: + Therefore on those that do me hate + I my desire shall see. + + Better it is to trust in GOD + than trust in man's defence; + Better to trust in GOD than make + princes our confidence. + + The nations, joining all in one, + did compass me about: + But in the LORD's most holy name + I shall them all root out. + + They compassed me about; I say, + they compassed me about: + But in the LORD's most holy name + I shall them all root out. + + Like bees they compassed me about; + like unto thorns that flame + They quenchèd are: for them shall I + destroy in GOD's own name. + + Thou sore hast thrust, that I might fall, + but my LORD helpèd me. + GOD my salvation is become, + my strength and song is he. + + In dwellings of the rïghteous + is heard the melody + Of joy and health: the LORD's right hand + doth ever valiantly. + + The right hand of the mighty LORD + exalted is on high; + The right hand of the mighty LORD + doth ever valiantly. + + I shall not die, but live, and shall + the works of GOD discover. + The LORD hath me chastisèd sore, + but not to death given over. + + O set ye open unto me + the gates of righteousness; + Then will I enter into them, + and I the LORD will bless. + + This is the gate of GOD, by it + the just shall enter in. + Thee will I praise, for thou me heard'st, + and hast my safety been. + + That stone is made head cornerstone, + which builders did despise: + This is the doing of the LORD, + and wondrous in our eyes. + + This is the day GOD made, in it + we'll joy triumphantly. + Save now, I pray thee, LORD; I pray, + send now prosperity. + + Blessèd is he in GOD's great name + that cometh us to save: + We, from the house which to the LORD + pertains, you blessèd have. + + God is the LORD, who unto us + hath made light to arise: + Bind ye unto the altar's horns + with cords the sacrifice. + + Thou art my God, I'll thee exalt; + my God, I will thee praise. + Give thanks to GOD, for he is good: + his mercy lasts always. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Blessèd are they that undefiled, + and straight are in the way; + Who in the LORD's most holy law + do walk, and do not stray. + + Blessèd are they who to observe + his statutes are inclined; + And who do seek the living God + with their whole heart and mind. + + Such in his ways do walk, and they + do no iniquity. + Thou hast commanded us to keep + thy precepts carefully. + + O that thy statutes to observe + thou would'st my ways direct! + Then shall I not be shamed, when I + thy precepts all respect. + + Then with integrity of heart + thee will I praise and bless, + When I the judgments all have learned + of thy pure righteousness. + + That I will keep thy statutes all + firmly resolved have I: + O do not then, most gracious God, + forsake me utterly. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + By what means shall a young man learn + his way to purify? + If he according to thy word + thereto attentive be. + + Unfeignedly thee have I sought + with all my soul and heart: + O let me not from the right path + of thy commands depart. + + Thy word I in my heart have hid, + that I offend not thee. + O LORD, thou ever blessèd art, + thy statutes teach thou me. + + The judgments of thy mouth each one + my lips declarèd have: + More joy thy testimonies' way + than riches all me gave. + + I will thy holy precepts make + my meditätion; + And carefully I'll have respect + unto thy ways each one. + + Upon thy statutes my delight + shall constantly be set: + And, by thy grace, I never will + thy holy word forget. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + With me thy servant, in thy grace, + deal bountifully, Lord; + That by thy favour I may live, + and duly keep thy word. + + Open mine eyes, that of thy law + the wonders I may see. + I am a stranger on this earth, + hide not thy laws from me. + + My soul within me breaks, and doth + much fainting still endure, + Through longing that it hath all times + unto thy judgments pure. + + Thou hast rebuked the cursèd proud, + who from thy precepts swerve. + Reproach and shame remove from me, + for I thy laws observe. + + Against me princes spake with spite, + while they in council sat: + But I thy servant did upon + thy statutes meditate. + + My comfort, and my heart's delight, + thy testimonies be; + And they, in all my doubts and fears, + are counsellors to me. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + My soul to dust cleaves: quicken me, + according to thy word. + My ways I showed, and me thou heard'st: + teach me thy statutes, Lord. + + The way of thy commändments + make me aright to know; + So all thy works that wondrous are + I shall to others show. + + My soul doth melt, and drop away, + for heaviness and grief: + To me, according to thy word, + give strength, and send relief. + + From me the wicked way of lies + let far removèd be; + And graciously thy holy law + do thou grant unto me. + + I chosen have the perfect way + of truth and verity: + Thy judgments that most righteous are + before me laid have I. + + I to thy testimonies cleave; + shame do not on me cast. + I'll run thy precepts' way, when thou + my heart enlargèd hast. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Teach me, O LORD, the perfect way + of thy precepts divine, + And to observe it to the end + I shall my heart incline. + + Give understanding unto me, + so keep thy law shall I; + Yea, ev'n with my whole heart I shall + observe it carefully. + + In thy law's path make me to go; + for I delight therein. + My heart unto thy test'monies, + and not to greed, incline. + + Turn thou away my sight and eyes + from viewing vanity; + And in thy good and holy way + be pleased to quicken me. + + Confirm to me thy gracious word, + which I did gladly hear, + Ev'n to thy servant, Lord, who is + devoted to thy fear. + + Turn thou away my feared reproach; + for good thy judgments be. + Lo, for thy precepts I have longed; + in thy truth quicken me. + + PSALM 119 (6)C.M. + + Let thy sweet mercies also come + and visit me, O LORD; + Ev'n thy benign salvätion, + according to thy word. + + So shall I have wherewith I may + give him an answer just, + Who spitefully reproacheth me; + for in thy word I trust. + + The word of truth out of my mouth + take thou not utterly; + For on thy judgments rïghteous + my hope doth still rely. + + So shall I keep for evermore + thy law continually. + And, sith that I thy precepts seek, + I'll walk at liberty. + + I'll speak thy word to kings, and I + with shame shall not be moved; + And will delight myself always + in thy laws, which I loved. + + To thy commandments, which I loved, + my hands lift up I will; + And I will also meditate + upon thy statutes still. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Remember, Lord, thy gracious word + thou to thy servant spake, + Which, for a ground of my sure hope, + thou causedst me to take. + + This word of thine my comfort is + in mine afflïction: + For in my straits I am revived + by this thy word alone. + + The men whose hearts with pride are stuffed + did greatly me deride; + Yet from thy straight commändments + I have not turned aside. + + Thy judgments rïghteous, O LORD, + which thou of old forth gave, + I did remember, and myself + by them comforted have. + + Horror took hold on me, because + ill men thy law forsake. + I in my house of pilgrimage + thy laws my songs do make. + + Thy name by night, LORD, I did mind, + and I have kept thy law. + And this I had, because thy word + I kept, and stood in awe. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Thou my sure portion art alone, + which I did choose, O LORD: + I have resolved, and said, that I + would keep thy holy word. + + With my whole heart I did entreat + thy face and favour free: + According to thy gracious word + be merciful to me. + + I thought upon my former ways, + and did my life well try; + And to thy testimonies pure + my feet then turnèd I. + + I did not stay, nor linger long, + as those that slothful are; + But hastily thy laws to keep + myself I did prepare. + + Bands of ill men me robbed; yet I + thy precepts did not slight. + I'll rise at midnight thee to praise, + ev'n for thy judgments right. + + I am companion to all those + who fear, and thee obey. + O LORD, thy mercy fills the earth: + teach me thy laws, I pray. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Well hast thou with thy servant dealt, + as thou didst promise give. + Good judgment me, and knowledge teach, + for I thy word believe. + + Ere I afflicted was I strayed; + but now I keep thy word. + Both good thou art, and good thou do'st: + teach me thy statutes, Lord. + + The men that are puffed up with pride + against me forged a lie; + Yet thy commändments observe + with my whole heart will I. + + Their hearts, through worldly ease and wealth, + as fat as grease they be: + But in thy holy law I take + delight continually. + + It hath been very good for me + that I afflicted was, + That I might well instructed be, + and learn thy holy laws. + + The word that cometh from thy mouth + is better unto me + Than many thousands and great sums + of gold and silver be. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Thou mad'st and fashion'dst me: thy laws + to know give wisdom, Lord. + So who thee fear shall joy to see + me trusting in thy word. + + That very right thy judgments are + I know, and do confess; + And that thou hast afflicted me + in truth and faithfulness. + + O let thy kindness merciful, + I pray thee, comfort me, + As to thy servant faithfully + was promisèd by thee. + + And let thy tender mercies come + to me, that I may live; + Because thy holy laws to me + sweet delectation give. + + Lord, let the proud ashamèd be; + for they, without a cause, + With me perversely dealt: but I + will muse upon thy laws. + + Let such as fear thee, and have known + thy statutes, turn to me. + My heart let in thy laws be sound, + that shamed I never be. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + My soul for thy salvation faints; + yet I thy word believe. + Mine eyes fail for thy word: I say, + When wilt thou comfort give? + + For like a bottle I'm become, + that in the smoke is set: + I'm black, and parched with grief; yet I + thy statutes not forget. + + How many are thy servant's days? + when wilt thou execute + Just judgment on these wicked men + that do me persecute? + + The proud have diggèd pits for me, + which is against thy laws. + Thy words all faithful are: help me, + pursued without a cause. + + They so consumed me, that on earth + my life they scarce did leave: + Thy precepts yet forsook I not, + but close to them did cleave. + + After thy loving-kindness, Lord, + me quicken, and preserve: + The testimony of thy mouth + so shall I still observe. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Thy word for ever is, O LORD, + in heaven settled fast; + Unto all generätions + thy faithfulness doth last: + + The earth thou hast establishèd, + and it abides by thee. + This day they stand as thou ordain'dst; + for all thy servants be. + + Unless in thy most perfect law + my soul delights had found, + I should have perishèd, when as + my troubles did abound. + + Thy precepts I will ne'er forget; + they quick'ning to me brought. + Lord, I am thine; O save thou me: + thy precepts I have sought. + + For me the wicked have laid wait, + me seeking to destroy: + But I thy testimonies true + consider will with joy. + + An end of all perfëction + here have I seen, O God: + But as for thy commändment, + it is exceeding broad. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O how love I thy law! it is + my study all the day: + It makes me wiser than my foes; + for it doth with me stay. + + Than all my teachers now I have + more understanding far; + Because my meditätion + thy testimonies are. + + In understanding I excel + those that are äncients; + For I endeavourèd to keep + all thy commändments. + + My feet from each ill way I stayed, + that I may keep thy word. + I from thy judgments have not swerved; + for thou hast taught me, Lord. + + How sweet unto my taste, O Lord, + are all thy words of truth! + Yea, I do find them sweeter far + than honey to my mouth. + + I through thy precepts, that are pure, + do understanding get; + I therefore ev'ry way that's false + with all my heart do hate. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Thy word is to my feet a lamp, + and to my path a light. + I sworn have, and I will perform, + to keep thy judgments right. + + I am with sore afflïction + ev'n overwhelmed, O LORD: + In mercy raise and quicken me, + according to thy word. + + The freewill off'rings of my mouth + accept, I thee beseech: + And unto me thy servant, LORD, + thy judgments clearly teach. + + Though still my soul be in my hand, + thy laws I'll not forget. + I erred not from them, though for me + the wicked snares did set. + + I of thy testimonies have + above all things made choice, + To be my heritage for aye; + for they my heart rejoice. + + I carefully inclinèd have + my heart still to attend; + That I thy statutes may perform + alway unto the end. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + I hate the thoughts of vanity, + but love thy law do I. + My shield and hiding-place thou art: + I on thy word rely. + + All ye that evil-doers are + from me depart away; + For the commandments of my God + I purpose to obey. + + According to thy faithful word + uphold and stablish me, + That I may live, and of my hope + ashamèd never be. + + Hold thou me up, so shall I be + in peace and safety still; + And to thy statutes have respect + continually I will. + + Thou tread'st down all that love to stray; + false their deceit doth prove. + Lewd men, like dross, away thou putt'st; + therefore thy law I love. + + For fear of thee my very flesh + doth tremble, all dismayed; + And of thy righteous judgments, Lord, + my soul is much afraid. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + To all men I have judgment done, + performing justice right; + Then let me not be left unto + my fierce oppressors' might. + + For good unto thy servant, Lord, + thy servant's surety be: + From the oppression of the proud + do thou deliver me. + + Mine eyes do fail with looking long + for thy salvätion, + The word of thy pure righteousness + while I do wait upon. + + In mercy with thy servant deal, + thy laws me teach and show. + I am thy servant, wisdom give, + that I thy laws may know. + + 'Tis time thou work, LORD; for they have + made void thy law divine. + Therefore thy precepts more I love + than gold, yea, gold most fine. + + Concerning all things thy commands + all right I judge therefore; + And ev'ry false and wicked way + I perfectly abhor. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Thy statutes, Lord, are wonderful, + my soul them keeps with care. + The entrance of thy words gives light, + makes wise who simple are. + + My mouth I have wide openèd, + and panted earnestly, + While after thy commändments + I longed exceedingly. + + Look on me, Lord, and merciful + do thou unto me prove, + As thou art wont to do to those + thy name who truly love. + + O let my footsteps in thy word + aright still ordered be: + Let no iniquity obtain + dominion over me. + + From man's oppression save thou me; + so keep thy laws I will. + Thy face make on thy servant shine; + teach me thy statutes still. + + Rivers of waters from mine eyes + did run down, when I saw + How wicked men run on in sin, + and do not keep thy law. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O LORD, thou art most rïghteous; + thy judgments are upright. + Thy testimonies thou command'st + most faithful are and right. + + My zeal hath ev'n consumèd me, + because mine enemies + Thy holy words forgotten have, + and do thy laws despise. + + Thy word's most pure, therefore on it + thy servant's love is set. + Small, and despised I am, yet I + thy precepts not forget. + + Thy righteousness is righteousness + which ever doth endure: + Thy holy law, Lord, also is + the very truth most pure. + + Trouble and anguish have me found, + and taken hold on me: + Yet in my trouble my delight + thy just commandments be. + + Eternal righteousness is in + thy testimonies all: + Lord, to me understanding give, + and ever live I shall. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + With my whole heart I cried, LORD, hear; + I will thy word obey. + I cried to thee; save me, and I + will keep thy laws alway. + + I of the morning did prevent + the dawning, and did cry: + For all mine expectätion + did on thy word rely. + + Mine eyes did timeously prevent + the watches of the night. + That in thy word with careful mind + then meditate I might. + + After thy loving-kindness hear + my voice, that calls on thee: + According to thy judgment, LORD, + revive and quicken me. + + Who follow mischief they draw nigh; + they from thy law are far: + But thou art near, LORD; most firm truth + all thy commandments are. + + As for thy testimonies all, + of old this have I tried, + That thou hast surely founded them + for ever to abide. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Consider mine afflïction, + in safety do me set: + Deliver me, O Lord, for I + thy law do not forget. + + After thy word revive thou me: + save me, and plead my cause. + Salvation is from sinners far; + for they seek not thy laws. + + O LORD, both great and manifold + thy tender mercies be: + According to thy judgments just, + revive and quicken me. + + My persecutors many are, + and foes that do combine; + Yet from thy testimonies pure + my heart doth not decline. + + I saw transgressors, and was grieved; + for they keep not thy word. + See how I love thy law! as thou + art kind, me quicken, LORD. + + From the beginning all thy word + hath been most true and sure: + Thy righteous judgments ev'ry one + for evermore endure. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Princes have persecuted me, + although no cause they saw: + But still of thy most holy word + my heart doth stand in awe. + + I at thy word rejoice, as one + of spoil that finds great store. + Thy law I love; but lying all + I hate and do abhor. + + Sev'n times a-day it is my care + to give due praise to thee; + Because of all thy judgments, Lord, + which righteous ever be. + + Great peace have they who love thy law; + offence they shall have none. + I hoped for thy salvation, LORD, + and thy commands have done. + + My soul thy testimonies pure + observèd carefully; + On them my heart is set, and them + I love exceedingly. + + Thy testimonies and thy laws + I kept with special care; + For all my works and ways each one + before thee open are. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David, soon after his advancement + to, and settlement on his throne, 2 Sam. 8. And contains, (1.) His + earnest exhortations to persons of all ranks, offices, and states, to + praise the Lord, for his everlasting mercy and kindness, ver. 1-4. + (2.) By a recital of the great and gracious things which God had done + for him, he encourageth himself and others to trust in God alone, ver. + 5-18. (3.) His thanksgivings for God's advancement of him to the + throne, notwithstanding of all opposition as typical of the + exaltation of Jesus Christ, ver. 19-23. (4.) His, and the priests' and + people's triumph, in the expected prosperity of his reign; and of the + flourishing of the kingdom of Christ, ver. 24-29.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let my soul soar aloft to Jesus and his sure mercies. Let me + behold him, who for the suffering of death was made a little lower + than the angels, now crowned with glory and honour; having all his + enemies put under his feet, but himself invested with all power in + heaven and in earth; and furnished with all gifts for men, yea, for + the rebellious also, that God the Lord may dwell among them; and, as + the God of their salvation, daily load them with benefits. Let me + rejoice in his highness, and have myself, and all my services, bound + with cords to his altar. And God forbid I should conclude the notes, + without entering into the very marrow of the sense. Thou art My God, + I'll thee exalt; My God, I will thee praise. + + - number: 119 + suggested_tunes: + - Jackson + - Caithness + - Bangor + - York + - Bristol + - Ballerma + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O let my earnest pray'r and cry + come near before thee, LORD: + Give understanding unto me, + according to thy word. + + Let my request before thee come: + after thy word me free. + My lips shall utter praise, when thou + hast taught thy laws to me. + + My tongue of thy most blessèd word + shall speak, and it confess; + Because all thy commändments + are perfect righteousness. + + Let thy strong hand make help to me: + thy precepts are my choice. + I longed for thy salvation, LORD, + and in thy law rejoice. + + O let my soul live, and it shall + give praises unto thee; + And let thy judgments gräcious + be helpful unto me. + + I, like a lost sheep, went astray; + thy servant seek, and find: + For thy commands I suffered not + to slip out of my mind. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is a collection of David's precious thoughts, sorrowful + complaints, humble petitions, and holy resolutions, which, it seems he + had written down as they occurred, and which, in the end of his life, + he digested into the form in which they now stand, consisting of as + many parts as there are letters in the Hebrew alphabet, the eight + verses of each always beginning with the same letter in the original. + The general scope of it is to magnify God's word, and make it + honourable. To intimate that it informs us of whatever we ought to + expect from God in the way of gracious donation, and of whatever he + may expect from us in the way of grateful returns of duty, it is + represented under ten different characters, one or other of which is + to be found in every verse, except the 122nd and 132nd: As God's Law, + because framed and published by him as our Sovereign His + Commandments, because given with authority, and lodged with us as a + trust His Precepts, because peremptorily prescribed, and not left as + a thing indifferent His Statutes, because fixed and determined, and + of perpetual obligation His Word, because it is the declaration of + his mind, and Christ, his essential Word, is all and in all therein + His Way, because it represents Christ, the Way, the Truth, and the + Life, and is the rule of our faith and obedience His Testimonies, + because therein God, upon his word, his oath, and writ, declares to + men the truths necessary to be known, in order to his honour and their + salvation, as ratified in the death of his Son His Judgments, + because it is framed in infinite wisdom, and by it we must both judge + and be judged (but in verses 75, 84, 121, judgment denotes righteous + conduct) His Righteousness, because it is holy, just, and good, and + is the perfect standard of righteousness And his Truth, or + Faithfulness, because its leading truths are eternal, and the + faithfulness of God is pledged in every point + thereof.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me all along enter into the + spirit of the psalm. Let my delight be in God's testimonies; my + desires after God's presence; and my endeavours to have God honoured. + Let God's word be my rule, my food, my armour, my wealth, my comfort; + and God himself, as therein revealed and bestowed, be my everlasting + and infinite all.<br/><br/><br/> Aleph, The 1st Part. + <br/><br/><br/>Here, (1.) David marks out holy men as the only blessed + men, ver. 1-3. (2.) Begs that, to his own honour and satisfaction, he + may be helped of God to an upright observance of his laws, ver. 4-6. + (3.) In the faith of God's direction and assistance, he resolves to + praise and obey him, ver. 7-8. + + - number: 120 + suggested_tunes: + - Dundee + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + In my distress to GOD I cried, + and he gave ear to me. + From lying lips, and guileful tongue, + O LORD, my soul set free. + + What shall be giv'n thee? or what shall + be done to thee, false tongue? + Ev'n burning coals of juniper, + sharp arrows of the strong. + + Woe's me that I in Mesech am + a sojourner so long; + That I in tabernacles dwell + to Kedar that belong. + + My soul with him that hateth peace + hath long a dweller been. + I am for peace; but when I speak, + for battle they are keen. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Why this psalm and the fourteen following, are called songs of + degrees, we do not certainly know. It is plain, some of them are + suited to secret worship, some to the family, and others to the public + assembly. This psalm, from its affinity to the 52nd, is supposed to + refer to Doeg the Edomite, 1 Sam. 22. We have, (1.) The psalmist's + prayer to God for deliverance from the ruinous influence of malicious + and false accusations, ver. 1-2. (2.) His denunciation of the just, + fearful, and lasting judgments of God against his malicious accusers, + ver. 3-4. (3.) His complaints of his quarrelsome and vexatious + neighbours, ver. 5-7.<br/><br/><br/>Never dare, my soul, to utter + falsehood, or even truth in a malicious manner. Never dare to rush + upon the fierce and lasting indignation of the Almighty. Never choose + to make this world thy country, where sin and troubles so abound. But, + ye blessed abodes of peace and purity, when shall I come to you! When + shall I leave my evil neighbours, and come to God, to God my exceeding + joy. + + - number: 121 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + I to the hills will lift mine eyes, + from whence doth come mine aid. + My safety cometh from the LORD, + who heav'n and earth hath made. + + Thy foot he'll not let slide, nor will + he slumber that thee keeps. + Behold, he that keeps Israel, + he slumbers not, nor sleeps. + + The LORD thee keeps, the LORD thy shade + on thy right hand doth stay: + The moon by night thee shall not smite, + nor yet the sun by day. + + The LORD shall keep thy soul; he shall + preserve thee from all ill. + Henceforth thy going out and in + GOD keep for ever will. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Here, (1.) In the firm faith of being heard, David supplicates divine + help and protection, ver. 1-2. (2.) He comforts himself and others + with the assurance of God's infallible direction and protection, ver. + 3-8.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let all my confidence be on the Lord. + Let my soul truly wait for him, from whom cometh all my necessary and + expected blessings. On him be all my burdens, all my wants, all my + cares. + + - number: 122 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + I joyed when to the house of GOD, + Go up, they said to me. + Jerusalem, within thy gates + our feet shall standing be. + + Jerus'lem, as a city, is + compactly built together: + Unto that place the tribes go up, + the tribes of GOD go thither: + + To Isr'el's testimony, there + to GOD's name thanks to pay. + For thrones of judgment, ev'n the thrones + of David's house, there stay. + + Pray that Jerusalem may have + peace and felicity: + Let them that love thee and thy peace + have still prosperity. + + Therefore I wish that peace may still + within thy walls remain, + And ever may thy palaces + prosperity retain. + + Now, for my friends' and brethren's sakes, + Peace be in thee, I'll say. + And for the house of God our LORD, + I'll seek thy good alway. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm appears to have been composed for the use of the Hebrews at + their three solemn feasts, Lev. 23. We have in it, (1.) Expressions of + great joy in going up to Jerusalem, ver. 1-2. (2.) High commendations + of the beauty, order, sanctity, and honour of Jerusalem, ver. 3-5. + (3.) The duty and happiness of such as are really concerned for the + welfare of Jerusalem, the church of God, ver. 6-9.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let me remember the gospel church, bewail her disorders, + supplicate for her welfare, and set my heart on the Jerusalem which is + above, and into which nothing can enter that defileth or disturbs. O + when shall my feet stand there! When shall I see my Jesus, on his + great white throne, and sit with him in his glory. + + - number: 123 + suggested_tunes: + - Dundee + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O thou that dwellest in the heav'ns, + I lift mine eyes to thee. + Behold, as servants' eyes do look + their masters' hand to see, + + As handmaid's eyes her mistress' hand; + so do our eyes attend + Upon the LORD our God, until + to us he mercy send. + + O LORD, be gräcious to us, + unto us gracious be; + Because replenished with contempt + exceedingly are we. + + Our soul is filled with scorn of those + that at their ease abide, + And with the insolent contempt + of those that swell in pride. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm relates to the distressed situation of the church, and + contains, (1.) Earnest longings for, and believing expectations of + merciful deliverances from God, ver. 1-2. (2.) An improvement of great + distress, as a plea for speedy and remarkable relief, ver. + 3-4.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing this, let me, in the full assurance of + faith, cry to God, for the mercies which my own soul, my family, and + the church and nation wherewith I am connected, so much need. Nor let + me accept of a denial of my believing requests. + + - number: 124 + suggested_tunes: + - York + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Had not the LORD been on our side, + may Israèl now say; + Had not the LORD been on our side, + when men rose us to slay; + + They had us swallowed quick, when as + their wrath 'gainst us did flame: + Waters had covered us, our soul + had sunk beneath the stream. + + Then had the waters, swelling high, + over our soul made way. + Bless'd be the LORD, who to their teeth + us gave not for a prey. + + Our soul's escapèd, as a bird + out of the fowler's snare; + The snare asunder broken is, + and we escapèd are. + + Our sure and all-sufficient help + is in JEHOVAH's name; + His name who did the heav'n create, + and who the earth did frame. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm relates to the distressed situation of the church, and + contains, (1.) Earnest longings for, and believing expectations of + merciful deliverances from God, ver. 1-2. (2.) An improvement of great + distress, as a plea for speedy and remarkable relief, ver. + 3-4.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing this, let me, in the full assurance of + faith, cry to God, for the mercies which my own soul, my family, and + the church and nation wherewith I am connected, so much need. Nor let + me accept of a denial of my believing requests. + + - number: 124 + suggested_tunes: + - York + metre: 10 10 10 10 10 + is_second_version: true + text: | + Now Israèl may say, and that truly, + If that the LORD had not our cause maintained; + If that the LORD had not our right sustained, + When cruel men against us furiously + Rose up in wrath, to make of us their prey; + + Then certainly they had devoured us all, + And swallowed quick, for ought that we could deem; + Such was their rage, as we might well esteem. + And as fierce floods before them all things drown, + So had they brought our soul to death quite down. + + The raging streams, with their proud swelling waves, + Had then our soul o'erwhelmèd in the deep. + But blessed be GOD, who doth us safely keep, + And hath not giv'n us for a living prey + Unto their teeth, and bloody cruelty. + + Ev'n as a bird out of the fowler's snare + Escapes away, so is our soul set free: + Broke are their nets, and thus escapèd we. + Therefore our help is in the LORD's great name, + Who heav'n and earth by his great pow'r did frame. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is highly applicable to every remarkable deliverance which + God works for his church, especially to the great redemption wrought + for his people by Christ. In it, (1.) David magnifies the danger they + were in, ver. 1-5. (2.) Ascribes the glory of their deliverance to + God, ver. 1-2, 6-7. (3.) Improves the deliverance as an encouragement + to trust in God, ver. 8.<br/><br/><br/>Let me behold Jehovah as a + present help in trouble. Let my waiting eyes be towards him, who, + notwithstanding all the combined power and policy of hell and earth, + is able and ready to pull my feet out of the net. + + - number: 125 + suggested_tunes: + - Praetorius + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + They in the LORD that firmly trust + shall be like Zion hill, + Which at no time can be removed, + but standeth ever still. + + As round about Jerusalem + the mountains stand alway, + The LORD his folk doth compass so, + from henceforth and for aye. + + For ill men's rod upon the lot + of just men shall not lie; + Lest righteous men stretch forth their hands + unto iniquity. + + Do thou to all those that be good + thy goodness, LORD, impart; + And do thou good to those that are + upright within their heart. + + But as for such as turn aside + after their crooked way, + GOD shall lead forth with wicked men: + on Isr'el peace shall stay. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Let me, in this psalm, behold, (1.) The happiness of the saints; in + the fixedness of their new-covenant state; the safety of their + condition: the seasonableness of their deliverances; and the advantage + of effectual fervent prayers in their behalf, ver. 1-4. (2.) The + misery of the wicked, particularly of the apostates from the ways of + God, ver. 5.<br/><br/><br/>Let me then never be of them that draw + back, but of them who believe, to the fixing of their heart, and the + saving of their soul. + + - number: 126 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Matthew + - St. Leonard + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + When Zion's bondage GOD turned back, + as men that dreamed were we. + Then filled with laughter was our mouth, + our tongue with melody: + + They 'mong the heathen said, The LORD + great things for them hath wrought. + The LORD hath done great things for us, + whence joy to us is brought. + + As streams of water in the south, + our bondage, LORD, recall. + Who sow in tears, a reaping time + of joy enjoy they shall. + + That man who, bearing precious seed, + in going forth doth mourn, + He doubtless, bringing back his sheaves, + rejoicing shall return. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm relates to some remarkable deliverance of the Jewish + church, perhaps from Babylon, as typical of those of the gospel + church; and, (1.) Represents great admiration of, and thankfulness for + the deliverance, ver. 1-3. (2.) Contains prayers for, and + encouragement to saints exercised with tribulations, ver. + 4-6.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me admire the Lord's kindness to + my country, to his gospel church to mankind to my soul. And, in my + remaining distress, personal or relative, let me sow in mourning and + supplication, that I may through grace reap joyful deliverances, and + everlasting consolations. + + - number: 127 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Except the LORD do build the house, + the builders lose their pain: + Except the LORD the city keep, + the watchmen watch in vain. + + 'Tis vain for you to rise betimes, + or late from rest to keep, + To feed on sorrows' bread; so gives + he his belovèd sleep. + + Lo, children are GOD's heritage, + the womb's fruit his reward. + The sons of youth as arrows are, + for strong men's hands prepared. + + O happy is the man that hath + his quiver filled with those; + They unashamèd in the gate + shall speak unto their foes. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm relates to David's orders for building the temple, 1 Chron. + 22, 28; or to Solomon's actual building of it, 2 Chron. 2-6. It + teacheth us constant dependence on God, in all our concerns; + particularly in, (1.) Prospering our undertakings, or rearing our + families; and in protecting our residence and country, ver. 1. (2.) In + enriching us without excessive care or labour, ver. 2. (3.) In giving + us agreeable heirs to possess our substance, ver. + 3-5.<br/><br/><br/>In all my undertakings, let me set the Lord always + before me! and depend on his blessing, as the source of my success. In + all my enjoyments, let my care be to enjoy God himself. + + - number: 128 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Blessed is each one that fears the LORD, + and walketh in his ways; + For of thy labour thou shall eat, + and happy be always. + + Thy wife shall as a fruitful vine + by thy house' sides be found: + Thy children like to olive-plants + about thy table round. + + Behold, the man that fears the LORD, + thus blessèd shall he be. + The LORD shall out of Zion give + his blessing unto thee: + + Thou shalt Jerus'lem's good behold + whilst thou on earth dost dwell. + Thou shalt thy children's children see, + and peace on Israel. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm exhibits, (1.) The comprehensive duty of all, particularly + married persons, ver. 1. (2.) The advantage of studying it, viz., + success in employments; comfort and honour in relations; joy in the + prosperity of God's church, and of their own offspring, ver. + 2-6.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me be ashamed, let me be pained + on account of my deficiency in holiness, and of the hurt my family and + the church of God have thereby sustained. Let me behold the great gain + of true godliness, having the promises of this life, and of that which + is to come. + + - number: 129 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Anne + - Hermon + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Oft did they vex me from my youth, + may Isr'el now declare; + Oft did they vex me from my youth, + yet not victorious were. + + The ploughers ploughed upon my back; + they long their furrows drew. + The righteous LORD did cut the cords + of the ungodly crew. + + Let Zion's haters all be turned + back with confüsion. + As grass on houses' tops be they, + which fades ere it be grown: + + Whereof enough to fill his hand + the mower cannot find; + Nor can the man his bosom fill, + whose work is sheaves to bind. + + Neither say they who do go by, + GOD's blessing on you rest: + We in the name of God the LORD + do wish you to be blessed. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Whether this psalm was penned when David brought up the ark of God to + Mount Zion, 2Sam. 6, or relates to the Chaldean captivity, is + uncertain. In it, the people of God, (1.) Look back on their often- + repeated tribulations, with thankfulness to God for their deliverances + from Egypt, and from their oppressors under the Judges, Saul, etc., + ver. 1-4. (2.) They look forward, with a believing prayer for, and + prospect of the destruction of all their implacable enemies, ver. + 5-8.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me not only be affected with what + the Lord did for the Jewish, but chiefly with what he hath done for + the gospel church: and let me, in faith, cry for, and expect the + downfall of Antichrist, and of all other enemies of Christ and his + church. + + - number: 130 + suggested_tunes: + - Martyrdom + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + LORD, from the depths to thee I cried. + My voice, Lord, do thou hear: + Unto my supplications' voice + give an attentive ear. + + Lord, who shall stand, if thou, O LORD, + should'st mark iniquity? + But yet with thee forgiveness is, + that fear'd thou mayest be. + + I wait for GOD, my soul doth wait, + my hope is in his word. + More than they that for morning watch, + my soul waits for the Lord; + + I say, more than they that do watch + the morning light to see. + Let Israèl hope in the LORD, + for with him mercies be; + + And plenteous redëmption + is ever found with him. + And from all his iniquities + he Isr'el shall redeem. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm contains, (1.) David's earnest cries to God, out of the + depths of corruption, desertion, temptation, or trouble, ver. 1-2. + (2.) His ingenuous repentance, in the faith of God's merciful + forgiveness, ver. 3-4. (3.) His attentive waiting on God for his + favours, ver. 5-6. (4.) His encouraging expectations from God, ver. + 7-8.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let my soul go and do likewise. While + the unbounded mercy and plenteous redemption of Jehovah remains + unexhausted, let my soul cry mightily in every trouble; believe + forgiveness under the deepest sense of guilt; and quietly hope and + wait for the salvation of God. Let never hopeless despair steel my + heart against a God of grace. + + - number: 131 + suggested_tunes: + - Ballerma + - York + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + My heart not haughty is, O LORD, + mine eyes not lofty be; + Nor do I deal in matters great, + or things too high for me. + + I surely have myself behaved + with quiet spirit and mild, + As child of mother weaned: my soul + is like a weaned child. + + Upon the LORD let all the hope + of Israèl rely, + Ev'n from the time that present is + unto eternity. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm contains, (1.) David's candid profession of his contentment + with his lot, ver. 1-2. (2.) His warm encouragement of others to a + constant dependence on God, ver. 3.<br/><br/>br/>While I sing it, let + me be ashamed of my pride, and of meddling with things above my + sphere. Let me desire humility, as my great ornament, in every + station; and study, like a child of God, weaned from worldly lusts, to + set all my hope on God himself. + + - number: 132 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Matthew + - St. Leonard + - Martyrdom + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + David, and his afflictions all, + LORD, do thou think upon; + How unto GOD he sware, and vowed + to Jacob's mighty One. + + I will not come within my house, + nor rest in bed at all; + Nor shall mine eyes take any sleep, + nor eyelids slumber shall; + + Till for the LORD a place I find, + where he may make abode; + A place of habitätion + for Jacob's mighty God. + + Lo, at the place of Ephratah + of it we understood; + And we did find it in the fields, + and city of the wood. + + We'll go into his tabernacles, + and at his footstool bow. + Arise, O LORD, into thy rest, + th' ark of thy strength, and thou. + + O let thy priests be clothèd, Lord, + with truth and righteousness; + And let all those that are thy saints + shout loud for joyfulness. + + For thine own servant David's sake, + do not deny thy grace: + Nor of thine own anointed one + turn thou away the face. + + The LORD in truth to David sware, + he will not turn from it, + I of thy body's fruit will make + upon thy throne to sit. + + My cov'nant if thy sons will keep, + and laws to them made known, + Their children then shall also sit + for ever on thy throne. + + For GOD of Zion hath made choice; + there he desires to dwell. + This is my rest, here still I'll stay; + for I do like it well. + + Her food I'll greatly bless; her poor + with bread will satisfy. + Her priests I'll clothe with health; her saints + shall shout forth joyfully. + + And there will I make David's horn + to bud forth pleasantly: + For him that mine anointed is + a lamp ordained have I. + + As with a garment I will clothe + with shame his en'mies all: + But yet the crown that he doth wear + upon him flourish shall. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Whether this psalm was penned by David when he brought up the ark of + God from Kirjath-jearim, 2Sam. 6, or for Solomon's dedication of the + temple, 1Kings 8, is uncertain. It contains, (1.) A representation of + David's pious and earnest care to provide a proper lodging for God's + ark, ver. 1-7. (2.) Earnest prayers for God's presence and blessing to + attend his ark, ver. 8-10. (3.) David's care to provide an habitation + for God; and God's promises to David relating to the prosperity and + establishment of his family, especially in the Messiah, are pleaded as + arguments to enforce these requests, ver. 1-5, + 10-18.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let my soul, with ardour, go out + after God, the living God. Let nothing less than his presence in his + ordinances satisfy my desires. Let the welfare of his ministers and + people be matter of my deep concern. Let me admire the kindness of + God, that I have so many exceeding great and precious promises to + plead upon. While I sing them, let me grasp, let me believe them, with + my whole heart. + + - number: 133 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Matthew + - St. Leonard + - Martyrdom + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Behold, how good a thing it is, + and how becoming well, + Together such as brethren are + in unity to dwell! + + Like precious ointment on the head, + that down the beard did flow, + Ev'n Aaron's beard, and to the skirts + did of his garments go. + + As Hermon's dew, the dew that doth + on Zion hills descend: + For there the blessing GOD commands, + life that shall never end. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was perhaps penned when the Hebrew tribes concurred to fix + David on his throne, or to restore him to it, 2 Sam. 5 or 19. Here is, + (1.) A declaration of the excellency and pleasantness of brotherly + affection, ver. 1. (2.) The illustration of this in two similitudes, + ver. 2-3. (3.) The great advantage of it, ver. 3.<br/><br/><br/>While + I sing, let Jesus' love, shed abroad in my heart, make me exemplify my + notes. How happy the churches and families where this prevails! And + how blessed above all, the church above, where love, love for ever + reigns. + + - number: 134 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Behold, bless ye the LORD, all ye + that his attendants are, + Ev'n you that in GOD's temple be, + and praise him nightly there. + + Your hands within God's holy place + lift up, and praise his name. + From Zion hill the LORD thee bless, + that heav'n and earth did frame. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was perhaps penned when David appointed the orders of the + Priests and Levites, 1 Chron. 23, 26. In it we have, (1.) The sacred + watchers of the temple stirred up, to employ their time in praising + God, ver. 1-2. (2.) A fervent prayer for the blessing of God on them, + or on others, ver. 3.<br/><br/><br/>While I am in Christ's church, let + me provoke myself and others to love, and to good works. + + - number: 135 + suggested_tunes: + - Dunfermline + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Praise ye the LORD, the LORD's name praise; + his servants, praise ye GOD. + Who stand in GOD's house, in the courts + of our God make abode. + + Praise ye the LORD, for he is good; + unto him praises sing: + Sing praises to his name, because + it is a pleasant thing. + + For Jacob to himself the LORD + did choose of his good pleasure, + And he hath chosen Israel + for his peculiar treasure. + + Because I know assuredly + the LORD is very great, + And that our Lord above all gods + in glory hath his seat. + + What things soever pleased the LORD, + that in the heav'n did he, + And in the earth, the seas, and all + the places deep that be. + + He from the ends of earth doth make + the vapours to ascend; + With rain he lightnings makes, and wind + doth from his treasures send. + + Egypt's first-born, from man to beast + who smote. Strange tokens he + On Pharaoh and his servants sent, + Egypt, in midst of thee. + + He smote great nations, slew great kings: + Sihon of Heshbon king, + And Og of Bashan, and to nought + did Canaan's kingdoms bring: + + And for a wealthy heritage + their pleasant land he gave, + An heritage which Israèl, + his chosen folk, should have. + + Thy name, O LORD, shall still endure, + and thy memorial + With honour shall continued be + to generations all. + + For why? the righteous GOD will judge + his people righteously; + Concerning those that do him serve, + himself repent will he. + + The idols of the nätions + of silver are and gold, + And by the hands of men is made + their fäshion and mould. + + Mouths have they, but they do not speak; + eyes, but they do not see; + Ears have they, but hear not; and in + their mouths no breathing be. + + Their makers are like them; so are + all that on them rely. + O Isr'el's house, bless GOD; bless GOD, + O Aaron's family. + + O bless the LORD, of Levi's house + ye who his servants are; + And bless the holy name of GOD, + all ye the LORD that fear. + + And blessèd be the LORD our God + from Zion's holy hill, + Who dwelleth at Jerusalem. + The LORD O praise ye still. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm contains, (1.) Earnest exhortations to all concerned, to + praise the Lord, ver. 1-3, 19-21. (2.) Rich matter for praise God + considered as the God of Israel, ver. 4; as the God of gods, ver. 5; + as the God of the whole world, ver. 6-7; as a God terrible to the + enemies of Israel, ver. 8-11; but kind to Israel, ver. 12-14; and as + the only true and living God, before whom all others are but vanity + and falsehood, ver. 15-18.<br/><br/><br/>Come near, my soul, and sing + what Jehovah is to, and hath done for his church; and what he is to, + and hath done for me. + + - number: 136 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: 8 7 8 7 iambic + is_second_version: false + text: | + Give thanks to GOD, for good is he: + for mercy hath he ever. + Thanks to the God of gods give ye: + for his grace faileth never. + + Thanks give the Lord of lords unto: + for mercy hath he ever. + Who only wonders great can do: + for his grace faileth never. + + Who by his wisdom made heav'ns high: + for mercy hath he ever. + Who stretched the earth above the sea: + for his grace faileth never. + + To him that made the great lights shine: + for mercy hath he ever. + The sun to rule till day decline: + for his grace faileth never. + + The moon and stars to rule by night: + for mercy hath he ever. + Who Egypt's first-born killed outright: + for his grace faileth never. + + And Isr'el brought from Egypt land: + for mercy hath he ever. + With stretched-out arm, and with strong hand: + for his grace faileth never. + + By whom the Red Sea parted was: + for mercy hath he ever. + And through its midst made Isr'el pass: + for his grace faileth never. + + But Pharaoh and his host did drown: + for mercy hath he ever. + Who through the desert led his own: + for his grace faileth never. + + To him great kings who overthrew: + for he hath mercy ever. + Yea, famous kings in battle slew: + for his grace faileth never. + + Ev'n Sihon king of Amorites: + for he hath mercy ever. + And Og the king of Bashanites: + for his grace faileth never. + + Their land in heritage to have: + (for mercy hath he ever). + His servant Isr'el right he gave: + for his grace faileth never. + + In our low state who on us thought: + for he hath mercy ever. + And from our foes our freedom wrought: + for his grace faileth never. + + Who doth all flesh with food relieve: + for he hath mercy ever. + Thanks to the God of heaven give: + for his grace faileth never. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm contains, (1.) Earnest exhortations to all concerned, to + praise the Lord, ver. 1-3, 19-21. (2.) Rich matter for praise God + considered as the God of Israel, ver. 4; as the God of gods, ver. 5; + as the God of the whole world, ver. 6-7; as a God terrible to the + enemies of Israel, ver. 8-11; but kind to Israel, ver. 12-14; and as + the only true and living God, before whom all others are but vanity + and falsehood, ver. 15-18.<br/><br/><br/>Come near, my soul, and sing + what Jehovah is to, and hath done for his church; and what he is to, + and hath done for me. + + - number: 136 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: 6 6 6 6 8 8 + is_second_version: true + text: | + Praise GOD, for he is kind: + His mercy lasts for aye. + Give thanks with heart and mind + To God of gods alway: + For certainly his mercies dure + Most firm and sure eternally. + + The Lord of lords praise ye, + Whose mercies still endure. + Great wonders only he + Doth work by his great power: + For certainly his mercies dure + Most firm and sure eternally. + + Which God omnipotent, + By might and wisdom high, + The heav'n and firmament + Did frame, as we may see: + For certainly his mercies dure + Most firm and sure eternally. + + To him who did outstretch + This earth so great and wide, + Above the waters' reach + Making it to abide: + For certainly his mercies dure + Most firm and sure eternally. + + Great lights he made to be; + For his grace lasteth aye: + Such as the sun we see, + To rule the lightsome day: + For certainly his mercies dure + Most firm and sure eternally. + + Also the moon so clear, + Which shineth in our sight; + The stars that do appear, + To guide the darksome night: + For certainly his mercies dure + Most firm and sure eternally. + + To him that Egypt smote, + Who did his message scorn; + And in his anger hot + Did kill all their first-born: + For certainly his mercies dure + Most firm and sure eternally. + + Thence Isr'el out he brought; + For his grace lasteth ever. + With a strong hand he wrought, + And stretched-out arm deliver: + For certainly his mercies dure + Most firm and sure eternally. + + The sea he cut in two; + For his grace lasteth still. + And through its midst to go + Made his own Israèl: + For certainly his mercies dure + Most firm and sure eternally. + + But overwhelmed and lost + Was proud king Pharàoh, + With all his mighty host, + And chariots there also: + For certainly his mercies dure + Most firm and sure eternally. + + To him who pow'rfully + His chosen people led, + Ev'n through the desert dry, + And in that place them fed: + For certainly his mercies dure + Most firm and sure eternally. + + To him great kings who smote; + For his grace hath no bound. + Who slew, and sparèd not + Kings famous and renowned: + For certainly his mercies dure + Most firm and sure eternally. + + Sihon the Am'rites' king; + For his grace lasteth ever: + Og also, who did reign + The land of Bashan over: + For certainly his mercies dure + Most firm and sure eternally. + + Their land by lot he gave; + For his grace faileth never, + That Isr'el might it have + In heritage for ever: + For certainly his mercies dure + Most firm and sure eternally. + + Who hath rememberèd + Us in our low estate; + And us deliverèd + From foes which did us hate: + For certainly his mercies dure + Most firm and sure eternally. + + Who to all flesh gives food; + For his grace faileth never. + Give thanks to God most good, + The God of heav'n, for ever: + For certainly his mercies dure + Most firm and sure eternally. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm is a continued exhortation to praise the Lord for the + perpetual displays of his mercy. The hearty singing of it has been + honoured with the most signal appearances of God's kindness, 2 Chron. + 5:13 and 20:21-22. We are in it directed to praise God, (1.) As great + and good in himself, ver. 1-4. (2.) As the Creator of all things, ver + 5-9. (3.) As the God and Saviour of Israel, who brought them out of + Egypt, through the Red sea and wilderness, and who cast out the + nations, and gave them the possession of Canaan, ver. 10-22. (4.) As + our gracious and condescending Redeemer, ver. 23-24. (5.) As the great + and sovereign Benefactor of all creatures, ver. + 25-26.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing it, let my heart be melted, and all- + inflamed, with the loving-kindness and mercy of God in Christ. Let me + behold, believe, and admire the unbounded extent, and everlasting + duration thereof. + + - number: 137 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Mary + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + By Babel's streams we sat and wept, + when Zion we thought on. + In midst thereof we hanged our harps + the willow-trees upon. + + For there a song requirèd they, + who did us captive bring: + Our spoilers called for mirth, and said, + A song of Zion sing. + + O how the LORD's song shall we sing + within a foreign land? + If thee, Jerus'lem, I forget, + skill part from my right hand. + + My tongue to my mouth's roof let cleave, + if I do thee forget, + Jerusalem, and thee above + my chief joy do not set. + + Remember Edom's children, LORD, + who in Jerus'lem's day, + Ev'n unto its foundätion, + Raze, raze it quite, did say. + + O daughter thou of Babylon, + near to destrüction; + Bless'd shall he be that thee rewards, + as thou to us hast done. + + Yea, happy surely shall he be + thy tender little ones + Who shall lay hold upon, and them + shall dash against the stones. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed in Chaldea, during the captivity, and + contains, (1.) The Jews' grievous bewailing of their distress, + contempt, and reproach, ver. 1, 4. (2.) Their tender and affectionate + remembrance of, and concern for Jerusalem the church and ordinances + of God, ver. 5-6. (3.) Denunciations of destruction to the Edomites, + who had promoted, and the Chaldeans, who had affected their distress + and captivity, ver. 7-9.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me bless the + Lord for what mercy is my lot, above that of many others. Let the + welfare of God's church lie near my heart. Let me earnestly desire, + and firmly expect the ruin of all her and my spiritual foes. + + - number: 138 + suggested_tunes: + - Winchester + - Stockton + - St. Asaph + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Thee will I praise with all my heart, + I will sing praise to thee + Before the gods: And worship will + toward thy sanctuary. + + I'll praise thy name, ev'n for thy truth, + and kindness of thy love; + For thou thy word hast magnified + all thy great name above. + + Thou didst me answer in the day + when I to thee did cry; + And thou my fainting soul with strength + didst strengthen inwardly. + + All kings upon the earth that are + shall give thee praise, O LORD; + When as they from thy mouth shall hear + thy true and faithful word. + + Yea, in the righteous ways of GOD + with gladness they shall sing: + For great's the glory of the LORD, + who doth for ever reign. + + Though GOD be high, yet he respects + all those that lowly be; + Whereas the proud and lofty ones + afar off knoweth he. + + Though I in midst of trouble walk, + I life from thee shall have: + 'Gainst my foes' wrath thou'lt stretch thine hand; + thy right hand shall me save. + + Surely that which concerneth me + the LORD will perfect make: + LORD, still thy mercy lasts; do not + thine own hands' works forsake. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was perhaps composed by David when he was newly advanced to + his throne, 2 Sam. 5, 1 Chron. 12. In it, (1.) He looks back with + thankfulness upon the experience he had of God's goodness to him, ver. + 1-3. (2.) He looks forward with comfort, in hopes that others would go + on like him to praise God, ver. 4-5; and that God would continue to do + good to him, ver. 6-8.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing these lofty lines, + let the sense of the unnumbered mercies I have received from God, and + the hopes of his everlasting loving-kindness, tune and animate my + heart. + + - number: 139 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Anne + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O LORD, thou hast me searched and known. + Thou know'st my sitting down, + And rising up; yea, all my thoughts + afar to thee are known. + + My footsteps, and my lying down, + thou compassest always; + Thou also most entirely art + acquaint with all my ways. + + For in my tongue, before I speak, + not any word can be, + But altogether, lo, O LORD, + it is well known to thee. + + Behind, before, thou hast beset, + and laid on me thine hand. + Such knowledge is too strange for me, + too high to understand. + + From thy Spirit whither shall I go? + or from thy presence fly? + Ascend I heav'n, lo, thou art there; + there, if in hell I lie. + + Take I the morning wings, and dwell + in utmost parts of sea; + Ev'n there, Lord, shall thy hand me lead, + thy right hand hold shall me. + + If I do say that darkness shall + me cover from thy sight, + Then surely shall the very night + about me be as light. + + Yea, darkness hideth not from thee, + but night doth shine as day: + To thee the darkness and the light + are both alike alway. + + For thou possessèd hast my reins, + and thou hast covered me, + When I within my mother's womb + inclosèd was by thee. + + Thee will I praise; for fearfully + and strangely made I am; + Thy works are marv'llous, and right well + my soul doth know the same. + + My substance was not hid from thee, + when as in secret I + Was made; and in earth's lowest parts + was wrought most curiously. + + Thine eyes my substance did behold, + yet being unperfect; + And in the volume of thy book + my members all were writ; + + Which after in continuance + were fashioned ev'ry one, + When as they yet all shapeless were, + and of them there was none. + + How precious also are thy thoughts, + O gracious God, to me! + And in their sum how passing great + and numberless they be! + + If I should count them, than the sand + they more in number be: + What time soever I awake, + I ever am with thee. + + Thou, Lord, wilt sure the wicked slay: + hence from me bloody men. + Thy foes against thee loudly speak, + and take thy name in vain. + + Do not I hate all those, O LORD, + that hatred bear to thee? + With those that up against thee rise + can I but grievèd be? + + With perfect hatred them I hate, + my foes I them do hold. + Search me, O God, and know my heart, + try me, my thoughts unfold: + + And see if any wicked way + there be at all in me; + And in thine everlasting way + to me a leader be. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably penned by David, while he was loaded with some + vile reproaches; and contains, (1.) His celebration of, 1. The + omniscience, ver. 1-6; 2. The omnipresence, ver. 7-12; and 3. The + creating-kindness of God, ver. 13-16. (2.) His improvement of these + in, 1. Devout meditation on God, ver. 17-18; 2. In detestation of + wicked men, ver. 19-22; 3. In solemn profession of his uprightness + before God, ver. 23-24.<br/><br/><br/>Let me sing, let me pray, let me + live, always under the deepest impressions of God's eye upon me; his + presence with me; his formation of me; his new-covenant relation to + me; and his everlasting redemption of my soul. Let my nights and my + days be filled up with precious, with fixed, with pleasant thoughts + concerning these, and holy improvements of them. Let me never make the + Lord's enemies my intimates. Let a thorough purgation from sin and + progress in holiness, be the delight, the earnest desire of my soul. + + - number: 140 + suggested_tunes: + - Ballerma + - Kilmarnock + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + LORD, from the ill and froward man + give me deliverance, + And do thou safe preserve me from + the man of violence: + + Who in their heart mischievous things + are meditating ever; + And they for war assembled are + continually together. + + Much like unto a serpent's tongue + their tongues they sharp do make; + And underneath their lips there lies + the poison of a snake. + + LORD, keep me from the wicked's hands, + from vi'lent men me save; + Who utterly to overthrow + my goings purposed have. + + The proud for me a snare have hid, + and cords; yea, they a net + Have by the wayside for me spread; + they gins for me have set. + + I said unto the LORD, Thou art + my God: unto the cry + Of all my supplicätions, + LORD, do thine ear apply. + + O GOD the Lord, who art the strength + of my salvätion: + A cov'ring in the day of war + my head thou hast put on. + + Unto the wicked man, O LORD, + his wishes do not grant; + Nor further thou his ill device, + lest they themselves should vaunt. + + As for the head and chief of those + about that compass me, + Ev'n by the mischief of the lips + let thou them covered be. + + Let burning coals upon them fall, + them throw in fiery flame, + And in deep pits, that they no more + may rise out of the same. + + Let not an evil speaker be + on earth establishèd: + Mischief shall hunt the vi'lent man, + till he be ruinèd. + + I know GOD will th' afflicted's cause + maintain, and poor men's right. + Surely the just shall praise thy name; + th' upright dwell in thy sight. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably penned by David when persecuted by Saul; and + perhaps partly relates to Doeg the Edomite, as Psalm 52and 120. In it, + (1.) David complains of the malice of his enemies, and supplicates + God's preservation from them, ver. 1-5. (2.) He encourageth himself in + God, as his God, ver. 6-7. (3.) He prays for, and prophesies the + destruction of all his enemies, ver. 8-11. (4.) He assures himself and + other saints, that all their troubles shall end happily, ver. + 12-13.<br/><br/><br/>Let my troubles stir me up to fervent prayers, + and to an earnest believing on God as my God. Thus shall I suck honey + out of flinty rocks; and the malice, as well as the ruin of mine + enemies, shall work for me an exceeding and eternal weight of glory. + + - number: 141 + suggested_tunes: + - Martyrdom + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O LORD, I unto thee do cry, + do thou make haste to me, + And give an ear unto my voice, + when I cry unto thee. + + As incense let my prayer be + directed in thine eyes; + And the uplifting of my hands + as th' ev'ning sacrifice. + + Set, LORD, a watch before my mouth, + keep of my lips the door. + My heart incline thou not unto + the ills I should abhor, + + To practise wicked works with men + that work iniquity; + And with their delicates my taste + let me not satisfy. + + Let him that righteous is me smite, + it shall a kindness be; + Let him reprove, I shall it count + a precious oil to me: + + Such smiting shall not break my head; + for yet the time shall fall, + When I in their calamities + to God pray for them shall. + + When as their judges down shall be + in stony places cast, + Then shall they hear my words; for they + shall sweet be to their taste. + + About the grave's devouring mouth + our bones are scattered round, + As wood which men do cut and cleave + lies scattered on the ground. + + But unto thee, O GOD the Lord, + mine eyes uplifted be: + My soul do not leave destitute; + my trust is set on thee. + + Lord, keep me safely from the snares + which they for me prepare; + And from the subtle gins of them + that wicked workers are. + + Let workers of iniquity + into their own nets fall, + Whilst I do, by thine help, escape + the danger of them all. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was likewise composed under distress and persecution. In it + David prays, (1.) For God's kind acceptance of his prayers, ver. 1-2. + (2.) For his powerful assistance in keeping his tongue, his heart, and + hand, in the way of duty, ver. 3-4. (3.) That others might be helpful + to him with their seasonable reproofs; and he to them with his + prayers, ver. 5-6. (4.) That when he and his friends were brought to + the last extremity, God would graciously appear for their relief, ver. + 7-10.<br/><br/><br/>When I am afflicted, let me pray. Let me highly + prize and kindly receive Christian reproof, and earnestly improve it + to my spiritual advantage. Nor let me ever despair, on account of the + great distress of my soul, or of the church. Is any thing too hard for + the Lord? + + - number: 142 + suggested_tunes: + - Walsall + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + I with my voice cried to the LORD, + with it made my request: + Poured out to him my plaint, to him + my trouble I expressed. + + When in me was o'erwhelmed my spirit, + then well thou knew'st my way; + Where I did walk a snare for me + they privily did lay. + + I looked on my right hand, and viewed, + but none to know me were; + All refuge failèd me, no man + did for my soul take care. + + I cried to thee; I said, Thou art + my refuge, LORD, alone; + And in the land of those that live + thou art my pörtion. + + Because I am brought very low, + attend unto my cry: + Me from my persecutors save, + who stronger are than I. + + From prison bring my soul, that I + thy name may glorify: + The just shall compass me, when thou + with me deal'st bounteously. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was framed by David when obliged by Saul's persecution to + hide himself in a cave, 1 Sam. 22:1 or 24:3. It contains, (1.) Bitter + complaints of the subtilty, strength, and malice of his enemies, and + of the coldness and indifference of his friends, ver. 1-4, 6. (2.) The + comfort he took in God's knowing his way, and in recognizing his claim + to God as his portion, ver. 3-5. (3.) His pleasant expectations that + his God would deliver him, and that his fellow saints would join with + him in thanksgiving for his deliverance, ver. 6-7.<br/><br/><br/>If + all men forsake me, if all men harass me, let me cast my burdens on + the Lord, that he may sustain me. Let me renew my believing claims to + him as my Lord, my God, my Refuge, and my Portion. Let me rest firmly + on his characters and promises, for his sympathy, help, and + deliverance. + + - number: 143 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Mary + - Dundee + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + LORD, hear my pray'r, attend my suits; + and in thy faithfulness + Give thou an answer unto me, + and in thy righteousness. + + Thy servant also bring thou not + in judgment to be tried: + Because no living man can be + in thy sight justified. + + For th' en'my hath pursued my soul, + my life to ground down tread: + In darkness he hath made me dwell, + as who have long been dead. + + My spirit is therefore overwhelmed + in me perplexedly; + Within me is my very heart + amazèd wondrously. + + I call to mind the days of old, + to meditate I use + On all thy works; upon the deeds + I of thy hands do muse. + + My hands to thee I stretch; my soul + thirsts, as dry land, for thee. + Haste, Lord, to hear, my spirit fails: + hide not thy face from me; + + Lest like to them I do become + that go down to the dust. + At morn let me thy kindness hear; + for in thee do I trust. + + Teach me the way that I should walk: + I lift my soul to thee. + LORD, free me from my foes; I flee + to thee to cover me. + + Because thou art my God, to do + thy will do me instruct: + Thy Spirit is good, me to the land + of uprightness conduct. + + Revive and quicken me, O LORD, + ev'n for thine own name's sake; + And do thou, for thy righteousness, + my soul from trouble take. + + And of thy mercy slay my foes; + let all destroyèd be + That do afflict my soul: for I + a servant am to thee. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was framed by David when obliged by Saul's persecution to + hide himself in a cave, 1 Sam. 22:1 or 24:3. It contains, (1.) Bitter + complaints of the subtilty, strength, and malice of his enemies, and + of the coldness and indifference of his friends, ver. 1-4, 6. (2.) The + comfort he took in God's knowing his way, and in recognizing his claim + to God as his portion, ver. 3-5. (3.) His pleasant expectations that + his God would deliver him, and that his fellow saints would join with + him in thanksgiving for his deliverance, ver. 6-7.<br/><br/><br/>If + all men forsake me, if all men harass me, let me cast my burdens on + the Lord, that he may sustain me. Let me renew my believing claims to + him as my Lord, my God, my Refuge, and my Portion. Let me rest firmly + on his characters and promises, for his sympathy, help, and + deliverance. + + - number: 143 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Mary + - Dundee + metre: 6 6 6 6 D + is_second_version: true + text: | + Oh, hear my prayer, LORD, + And unto my desire + To bow thine ear accord, + I humbly thee require; + And, in thy faithfulness, + Unto me answer make, + And, in thy righteousness, + Upon me pity take. + + In judgment enter not + With me thy servant poor; + For why, this well I wot, + No sinner can endure + The sight of thee, O God: + If thou his deeds shalt try, + He dare make none abode + Himself to justify. + + Behold, the cruel foe + Me persecutes with spite, + My soul to overthrow: + Yea, he my life down quite + Unto the ground hath smote, + And made me dwell full low + In darkness, as forgot, + Or men dead long ago. + + Therefore my spirit much vexed, + O'erwhelmed is me within; + My heart right sore perplexed + And desolate hath been. + Yet I do call to mind + What ancient days record, + Thy works of ev'ry kind + I think upon, O Lord. + + Lo, I do stretch my hands + To thee, my help alone; + For thou well understands + All my complaint and moan: + My thirsting soul desires, + And longeth after thee, + As thirsty ground requires + With rain refreshed to be. + + LORD, let my pray'r prevail, + To answer it make speed; + For, lo, my spirit doth fail: + Hide not thy face in need; + Lest I be like to those + That do in darkness sit, + Or him that downward goes + Into the dreadful pit. + + Because I trust in thee, + O Lord, cause me to hear + Thy loving-kindness free, + When morning doth appear: + Cause me to know the way + Wherein my path should be; + For why, my soul on high + I do lift up to thee. + + From my fierce enemy + In safety do me guide, + Because I flee to thee, + LORD, that thou may'st me hide. + My God alone art thou, + Teach me thy righteousness: + Thy Spirit 's good, lead me to + The land of uprightness. + + O LORD, for thy name's sake, + Be pleased to quicken me; + And, for thy truth, forth take + My soul from misery. + And of thy grace destroy + My foes, and put to shame + All who my soul annoy; + For I thy servant am. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably penned by David during the unnatural rebellion + of his son Absalom, as Psalm 3, 42, 43. It contains, (1.) Sad + complaints of trouble, and of the sinking of his spirit under it, ver. + 3-5, 7. (2.) Fervent supplications that God would hear his prayer; + ver. 1, 7; forgive his sins, ver. 2; manifest his favours, ver. 6-8; + direct him in the way of duty, ver. 8-10; quicken him in it, ver. 11; + deliver him out of trouble, ver.9, 11; and, in fine, punish his + persecutors, ver. 12.<br/><br/><br/>What time my heart is overwhelmed, + let God lead me to the Rock that is higher than I. Let me study to + have my sin removed first, in order that my troubles may remove in due + order, and with a rich blessing. + + - number: 144 + suggested_tunes: + - St. Peter + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + O blessèd ever be the LORD, + who is my strength and might, + Who doth instruct my hands to war, + my fingers teach to fight. + + My goodness, fortress, my high tower, + deliverer, and shield, + In whom I trust: who under me + my people makes to yield. + + LORD, what is man, that thou of him + dost so much knowledge take? + Or son of man, that thou of him + so great account dost make? + + Man is like vanity; his days, + as shadows, pass away. + LORD, bow thy heav'ns, come down, touch thou + the hills, and smoke shall they. + + Cast forth thy lightning, scatter them; + thine arrows shoot, them rout. + Thine hand send from above, me save; + from great depths draw me out; + + And from the hand of children strange, + Whose mouth speaks vanity; + And their right hand is a right hand + that works deceitfully. + + A new song I to thee will sing, + Lord, on a psaltery; + I on a ten-stringed instrument + will praises sing to thee. + + Ev'n he it is that unto kings + salvätion doth send; + Who his own servant David doth + from hurtful sword defend. + + O free me from strange children's hand, + whose mouth speaks vanity; + And their right hand a right hand is + that works deceitfully. + + That, as the plants, our sons may be + in youth grown up that are; + Our daughters like to corner-stones, + carved like a palace fair. + + That to afford all kind of store + our garners may be filled; + That our sheep thousands, in our streets + ten thousands they may yield. + + That strong our oxen be for work, + that no in-breaking be, + Nor going out; and that our streets + may from complaints be free. + + Those people blessèd are who be + in such a case as this; + Yea, blessèd all those people are, + whose God JEHOVAH is. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David upon the occasion of his + advancement to the throne, 1 Chron. 12, 2 Sam. 5, as Psalm 138, 75, + etc. In it we have, (1.) Thankful acknowledgements of God's relation + to him, and condescending kindness towards him, ver. 1-4. (2.) + Supplication for divine deliverance from his enemies, who still + threatened him, ver. 5-8; and for prosperity to his kingdom, ver. + 11-14. (3.) Triumphant joy in God, as his and their deliverer and + portion, ver. 9-10, 15.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me admire the + relation, the kindness of God to me, who am so mean, so frail, so + sinful! Let me rejoice in him, as my all in all; and commit my way to + him, that he may bring it to pass. And let every external benefit lead + up my heart to God himself. + + - number: 145 + suggested_tunes: + - Effingham + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + I'll thee extol, my God, O King; + I'll bless thy name always. + Thee will I bless each day, and will + thy name for ever praise. + + Great is the LORD, much to be praised; + his greatness search exceeds. + Race unto race shall praise thy works, + and show thy mighty deeds. + + I of thy glorious majesty + the honour will record; + I'll speak of all thy mighty works, + which wondrous are, O Lord. + + Men of thine acts the might shall show, + thine acts that dreadful are; + And I, thy glory to advance, + thy greatness will declare. + + The mem'ry of thy goodness great + they largely shall express; + With songs of praise they shall extol + thy perfect righteousness. + + The LORD is very gräcious, + in him compassions flow; + In mercy he is very great, + and is to anger slow. + + The Lord JEHOVAH unto all + his goodness doth declare; + And over all his other works + his tender mercies are. + + Thee all thy works shall praise, O LORD, + and thee thy saints shall bless; + They shall thy kingdom's glory show, + thy pow'r by speech express: + + To make the sons of men to know + his acts done mightily, + And of his kingdom th' excellent + and glorious majesty. + + Thy kingdom shall for ever stand, + thy reign through ages all. + GOD raiseth all that are bowed down, + upholdeth all that fall. + + The eyes of all things wait on thee, + the giver of all good; + And thou, in time convenient, + bestow'st on them their food: + + Thine hand thou open'st lib'rally, + and of thy bounty gives + Enough to satisfy the need + of everything that lives. + + The LORD is just in all his ways, + holy in his works all. + GOD's near to all that call on him, + in truth that on him call. + + He will accomplish the desire + of those that do him fear: + He also will deliver them, + and he their cry will hear. + + The LORD preserves all who him love, + that nought can them annoy: + But he all those that wicked are + will utterly destroy. + + My mouth the praises of the LORD + to publish cease shall never: + Let all flesh bless his holy name + for ever and for ever. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably composed by David upon the occasion of his + advancement to the throne, 1 Chron. 12, 2 Sam. 5, as Psalm 138, 75, + etc. In it we have, (1.) Thankful acknowledgements of God's relation + to him, and condescending kindness towards him, ver. 1-4. (2.) + Supplication for divine deliverance from his enemies, who still + threatened him, ver. 5-8; and for prosperity to his kingdom, ver. + 11-14. (3.) Triumphant joy in God, as his and their deliverer and + portion, ver. 9-10, 15.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let me admire the + relation, the kindness of God to me, who am so mean, so frail, so + sinful! Let me rejoice in him, as my all in all; and commit my way to + him, that he may bring it to pass. And let every external benefit lead + up my heart to God himself. + + - number: 145 + suggested_tunes: + - Effingham + metre: L.M. + is_second_version: true + text: | + O Lord, thou art my God and King; + Thee will I magnify and praise: + I will thee bless, and gladly sing + Unto thy holy name always. + + Each day I rise I will thee bless, + And praise thy name time without end. + Much to be praised, and great God is; + His greatness none can comprehend. + + Race shall thy works praise unto race, + The mighty acts show done by thee. + I will speak of the glorious grace, + And honour of thy majesty; + + Thy wondrous works I will record. + By men the might shall be extolled + Of all thy dreadful acts, O LORD: + And I thy greatness will unfold. + + They utter shall abundantly + The mem'ry of thy goodness great; + And shall sing praises cheerfully, + Whilst they thy righteousness relate. + + The LORD our God is gräcious, + Compassionate is he also; + In mercy he is plenteous, + But unto wrath and anger slow. + + Good unto all men is the LORD: + O'er all his works his mercy is. + Thy works all praise to thee afford: + Thy saints, O LORD, thy name shall bless. + + The glory of thy kingdom show + Shall they, and of thy power tell: + That so men's sons his deeds may know, + His kingdom's grace that doth excel. + + Thy kingdom hath none end at all, + It doth through ages all remain. + The LORD upholdeth all that fall, + The cast-down raiseth up again. + + The eyes of all things, Lord, attend, + And on thee wait that here do live, + And thou, in season due, dost send + Sufficient food them to relieve. + + Yea, thou thine hand dost open wide, + And ev'rything dost satisfy + That lives, and doth on earth abide, + Of thy great liberality. + + The LORD is just in his ways all, + And holy in his works each one. + He's near to all that on him call, + Who call in truth on him alone. + + God will the just desire fulfil + Of such as do him fear and dread: + Their cry regard, and hear he will, + And save them in the time of need. + + The LORD preserves all, more and less, + That bear to him a loving heart: + But workers all of wickedness + Destroy will he, and clean subvert. + + Therefore my mouth and lips I'll frame + To speak the praises of the LORD: + To magnify his holy name + For ever let all flesh accord. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm, like the 25th, 34th, 111th, 112th, and 119th, is composed + in an alphabetical form. It, and the five which follow, consist of + pure praises to God, without so much as one complaint or petition. + Here, (1.) David engageth himself, and encourageth others to praise + God, ver. 1-7, 10, 21. (2.) He represents the grounds of praise, viz + the greatness and glory, sovereign power, and eternity of God, and the + greatness and glory of his works, ver. 3-7, 11-13; his unbounded + goodness, mercy, and compassion, ver. 7-9; manifested in pitying the + afflicted, providing what is necessary for all creatures; and in his + readiness to hear and answer his people's prayers, preserve them from + evil, and destroy their enemies, ver. 14-20.<br/><br/><br/>In such + high praises of God, may all my prayers issue at last. And the nearer + I approach to mine end, let my heart and lips be the more filled with + his praise, and honour all the day. While I live on earth, let me + publish the heart-engaging wonders of the nature and works of my God. + + - number: 146 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Praise GOD. The LORD praise, O my soul. + I'll praise GOD while I live; + While I have being to my God + in songs I'll praises give. + + Trust not in princes, nor man's son, + in whom there is no stay: + His breath departs, to 's earth he turns; + that day his thoughts decay. + + O happy is that man and blest, + whom Jacob's God doth aid; + Whose hope upon the LORD doth rest, + and on his God is stayed: + + Who made the earth and heavens high, + who made the swelling deep, + And all that is within the same; + who truth doth ever keep: + + Who righteous judgment executes + for those oppressed that be, + Who to the hungry giveth food; + GOD sets the pris'ners free. + + The LORD doth give the blind their sight, + the bowèd down doth raise: + The LORD doth dearly love all those + that walk in upright ways. + + The stranger's shield, the widow's stay, + the orphan's help, is he: + But yet by him the wicked's way + turn'd upside down shall be. + + The LORD shall reign for evermore: + thy God, O Zion, he + Reigns to all generätions. + Praise to the LORD give ye. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm contains, (1.) Pleasant engagements and encouragements to + the hearty and constant praises of God, ver. 1-2, 10. (2.) Earnest + dissuasives from trusting in man, who is so weak and short-lived, ver. + 3-4. (3.) Powerful persuasives to trust in God, whose power and + goodness appear so remarkable in creation, providence, and redemption, + ver. 5-10.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, be stirred up, my soul, and all + that is within me, to bless his holy name; to depend on him alone, who + is my Maker, my faithful Friend, my kind and righteous Protector, my + bountiful Provider, my almighty Deliverer, my gracious Enlightener, my + seasonable Restorer, my perpetual Preserver, and the just punisher of + my foes my King, my God, and my all. + + - number: 147 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Praise ye the LORD; for it is good + praise to our God to sing: + For it is pleasant, and to praise + it is a comely thing. + + GOD doth build up Jerusalem; + and he it is alone + That the dispersed of Israel + doth gather into one. + + Those that are broken in their heart, + and grievèd in their minds, + He healeth, and their painful wounds + he tenderly up-binds. + + He counts the number of the stars; + he names them ev'ry one. + Great is our Lord, and of great pow'r; + his wisdom search can none. + + The LORD lifts up the meek; and casts + the wicked to the ground. + Sing to the LORD, and give him thanks; + on harp his praises sound; + + Who covereth the heav'n with clouds, + who for the earth below + Prepareth rain, who maketh grass + upon the mountains grow. + + He gives the beast his food, he feeds + the ravens young that cry. + His pleasure not in horses' strength, + nor in man's legs, doth lie. + + But in all those that do him fear + the LORD doth pleasure take; + In those that to his mercy do + by hope themselves betake. + + The LORD praise, O Jerusalem; + Zion, thy God confess: + For thy gates' bars he maketh strong; + thy sons in thee doth bless. + + He in thy borders maketh peace; + with fine wheat filleth thee. + He sends forth his command on earth, + his word runs speedily. + + Hoar-frost, like ashes, scatt'reth he; + like wool he snow doth give: + Like morsels casteth forth his ice; + who in its cold can live? + + He sendeth forth his mighty word, + and melteth them again; + His wind he makes to blow, and then + the waters flow amain. + + The doctrine of his holy word + to Jacob he doth show; + His statutes and his judgments he + gives Israèl to know. + + To any nation never he + such favour did afford; + For they his judgments have not known. + O do ye praise the LORD. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably penned by David, while he repaired and + fortified Jerusalem, 2Sam. 5; and contains, (1.) Solemn calls to + praise God, ver. 1, 7, 12, 20. (2.) Weighty reasons for praising God, + viz. 1. That, as the God of nature, he is infinitely intelligent and + great, and the sovereign manager of all creatures, ver. 4-5, 8-9, 15, + 18. 2. As the God of grace, he tenderly comforts, and affectionately + delights in his people, ver. 3, 6, 10-11. 3. As the God of Israel, + Jerusalem, and Zion, he settles their civil and religious state, ver. + 2, 13-14, 19-20.<br/><br/><br/>When God manifests himself in so many + things, be ashamed, my soul, that I discern him in so few. O to see + God's power and glory in every work of his hand, and especially in + every word of his mouth! And to be so affected with what he is, and + hath done, and will do, as in every thing to give thanks. + + - number: 148 + suggested_tunes: + - Stockton + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Praise GOD. From heavens praise the LORD, + in heights praise to him be. + All ye his angels, praise ye him; + his hosts all, praise him ye. + + O praise ye him, both sun and moon; + praise him, all stars of light. + Ye heav'ns of heav'ns him praise, and floods + above the heavens' height. + + Let all the creatures praise the name + of our almighty LORD: + For he commanded, and they were + created by his word. + + He also, for all times to come, + hath them established sure; + He hath appointed them a law, + which ever shall endure. + + Praise ye JEHOVAH from the earth, + dragons, and ev'ry deep: + Fire, hail, snow, vapour, stormy wind, + his word that fully keep. + + All hills and mountains, fruitful trees, + and all ye cedars high: + Beasts, and all cattle, creeping things, + and all ye birds that fly. + + Kings of the earth, all nätions, + princes, earth's judges all: + Both young men, yea, and maidens too, + old men, and children small. + + Let them GOD's name praise; for his name + alone is excellent: + His glory reacheth far above + the earth and firmament. + + His people's horn, the praise of all + his saints, exalteth he; + Ev'n Isr'el's seed, a people near + to him. The LORD praise ye. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was probably penned by David, while he repaired and + fortified Jerusalem, 2Sam. 5; and contains, (1.) Solemn calls to + praise God, ver. 1, 7, 12, 20. (2.) Weighty reasons for praising God, + viz. 1. That, as the God of nature, he is infinitely intelligent and + great, and the sovereign manager of all creatures, ver. 4-5, 8-9, 15, + 18. 2. As the God of grace, he tenderly comforts, and affectionately + delights in his people, ver. 3, 6, 10-11. 3. As the God of Israel, + Jerusalem, and Zion, he settles their civil and religious state, ver. + 2, 13-14, 19-20.<br/><br/><br/>When God manifests himself in so many + things, be ashamed, my soul, that I discern him in so few. O to see + God's power and glory in every work of his hand, and especially in + every word of his mouth! And to be so affected with what he is, and + hath done, and will do, as in every thing to give thanks. + + - number: 148 + suggested_tunes: + - Stockton + metre: 6 6 6 6 8 8 + is_second_version: true + text: | + The LORD of heav'n confess, + On high his glory raise. + Him let all angels bless, + Him all his armies praise. + Him glorify sun, moon, and stars; + Ye higher spheres, and cloudy sky. + + From GOD your beings are, + Him therefore famous make; + You all created were, + When he the word but spake. + And from that place, where fixed you be + By his decree, you cannot pass. + + Praise GOD from earth below, + Ye dragons, and ye deeps: + Fire, hail, clouds, wind, and snow, + Whom in command he keeps. + Praise ye his name, hills great and small, + Trees low and tall; beasts wild and tame; + + All things that creep or fly. + Ye kings, ye vulgar throng, + All princes mean or high; + Both men and virgins young, + Ev'n young and old, exalt his name; + For much his fame should be extolled. + + O let GOD's name be praised + Above both earth and sky; + For he his saints hath raised, + And set their horn on high; + Ev'n those that be of Isr'el's race, + Near to his grace. The LORD praise ye. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + Here the psalmist, overwhelmed with enrapturing views of the glory, + and a sense of the goodness of the Lord, issues forth a solemn call to + all his fellow creatures, to assist him in his songs of praise. (1.) + To the celestial creatures above, whether intellectual beings or not, + ver. 1-6. (2.) To the terrestrial creatures below, whether irrational, + ver. 7-10; or rational, ver. 11-13; but chiefly to his chosen people, + ver. 14.<br/><br/><br/>While angels and other rational beings actively + trumpet forth his honours, and irrational creatures praise him + objectively, in manifesting his excellencies marked on them; let my + soul be ravished with his glory, amazed with his grace, and all + inflamed with love, in uttering his praise, who, in Christ, is my God, + and my exceeding Joy. Cry out, all my powers, My God, who is like unto + thee! Is there any work like unto thy work! + + - number: 149 + suggested_tunes: [] + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Praise ye the LORD: unto him sing + a new song, and his praise + In the assembly of his saints + in sweet psalms do ye raise. + + Let Isr'el in his Maker joy, + and to him praises sing: + Let all that Zion's children are + be joyful in their King. + + O let them unto his great name + give praises in the dance; + Let them with timbrel and with harp + in songs his praise advance. + + For GOD doth pleasure take in those + that his own people be; + And he with his salvätion + the meek will beautify. + + And in his glory excellent + let all his saints rejoice: + Let them to him upon their beds + aloud lift up their voice. + + Let in their mouth aloft be raised + the high praise of the Lord, + And let them have in their right hand + a sharp two-edgèd sword; + + To execute the vengeance due + upon the heathen all, + And make deservèd punishment + upon the people fall. + + And ev'n with chains, as pris'ners, bind + their kings that them command; + Yea, and with iron fetters strong, + the nobles of their land. + + On them the judgment to perform + found written in his word: + This honour is to all his saints. + O do ye praise the LORD. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm was perhaps penned by David, when he took the strong hold + of Zion from the Jebusites; and represents, (1.) Abundant joys to the + people of God, in his relation to, delight in, and kindness towards + them, ver. 1-5. (2.) Abundance of terror to the proudest of their + enemies, in their victory and power over them, ver. + 6-9.<br/><br/><br/>While I sing, let mine eyes be fixed on Jesus + Christ, going forth in his chariots of salvation, subduing his enemies + to himself, by the gospel rod of his strength, in the Apostolic and + Millennial periods, Rev. 20:2; and in the chariots of vengeance, + destroying his incorrigible opposers, by the iron rod of his wrath, + and treading them under the feet of his saints. + + - number: 150 + suggested_tunes: + - Richmond + metre: C.M. + is_second_version: false + text: | + Praise ye the LORD. God's praise within + his sanctuary raise; + And to him in the firmament + of his pow'r give ye praise. + + Because of all his mighty acts, + with praise him magnify: + O praise him, as he doth excel + in glorious majesty. + + Praise him with trumpet's sound; his praise + with psaltery advance: + With timbrel, harp, stringed instruments, + and organs, in the dance. + + Praise him on cymbals loud; him praise + on cymbals sounding high. + Let each thing breathing praise the LORD. + Praise to the LORD give ye. + + commentary: + john_brown: > + This psalm contains thirteen calls to praise God. It directs, (1.) Who + ought to praise him, ver. 6. (2.) Why they should praise him, viz. + that he dwells with men; and for his mighty acts, and his excellent + greatness, ver. 1-2. (3.) How he ought to be praised, viz. in a + public, earnest, and skilful manner, ver. 2-3, 5.<br/><br/><br/>Dare + not, my soul, to finish thy notes, and to conclude the book, without + commencing an heartiness in the work. Awake then my inward powers, let + me even here, begin my high hallelujahs and hosannas to Him, who loved + me, and gave himself for me. + +... diff --git a/data/psalter/topics.yaml b/data/psalter/topics.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..9d90bae3b9441a9f5ef713b3e92e79483cd48dd0 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/psalter/topics.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,1870 @@ +--- +name: Psalter Topical Index +type: psalm-index +publication_year: +topics: + - name: Christian Life + sections: + - name: Affliction + psalms: + - number: 13 + start: 0 + end: 0 + - number: 25 + start: 15 + end: 22 + - number: 27 + start: 7 + end: 10 + - number: 30 + start: 6 + end: 12 + - number: 34 + start: 17 + end: 22 + - number: 38 + start: 0 + end: 0 + - number: 40 + start: 11 + end: 17 + - number: 42 + start: 0 + end: 0 + - number: 55 + start: 1 + end: 8 + - number: 60 + start: 1 + end: 5 + - number: 66 + start: 8 + end: 14 + - name: Assurance + psalms: + - number: 18 + start: 23 + end: 28 + - number: 27 + start: 4 + end: 10 + - 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number: 72 + start: 1 + end: 11 + - number: 74 + start: 20 + end: 23 + - number: 76 + start: 0 + end: 0 + - number: 124 + start: 0 + end: 0 + - number: 144 + start: 1 + end: 5 + - name: Wicked + sections: + - name: Wicked + psalms: + - number: 5 + start: 0 + end: 0 + - number: 41 + start: 0 + end: 0 + - number: 35 + start: 0 + end: 0 + - number: 58 + start: 0 + end: 0 + - name: Word of God + sections: + - name: Word of God + psalms: + - number: 19 + start: 7 + end: 11 + - number: 78 + start: 1 + end: 7 + - number: 119 + start: 0 + end: 0 + - number: 138 + start: 0 + end: 0 + - name: Youth + sections: + - name: Youth + psalms: + - number: 8 + start: 0 + end: 0 + - number: 34 + start: 11 + end: 15 + - number: 78 + start: 1 + end: 7 + - number: 119 + start: 9 + end: 16 + - number: 127 + start: 0 + end: 0 + - number: 148 + start: 0 + end: 0 +... diff --git a/data/reformation/95-theses.yaml b/data/reformation/95-theses.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..fa6150db0c070aefce3378b08cd05a4dce31d2d4 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/reformation/95-theses.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,255 @@ +--- +name: Martin Luther's 95 theses +publication_year: 1517 +type: document +numbered: true +chapters: + - When our Lord and Master Jesus Christ said, "Repent" (Mt 4:17), he willed + the entire life of believers to be one of repentance. + - This word cannot be understood as referring to the sacrament of + penance, that is, confession and satisfaction, as administered by the + clergy. + - Yet it does not mean solely inner repentance; such inner repentance + is worthless unless it produces various outward mortification of the flesh. + - The penalty of sin remains as long as the hatred of self (that is, + true inner repentance), namely till our entrance into the kingdom of + heaven. + - The pope neither desires nor is able to remit any penalties except + those imposed by his own authority or that of the canons. + - The pope cannot remit any guilt, except by declaring and showing + that it has been remitted by God; or, to be sure, by remitting guilt in + cases reserved to his judgment. If his right to grant remission in these + cases were disregarded, the guilt would certainly remain unforgiven. + - God remits guilt to no one unless at the same time he humbles him in + all things and makes him submissive to the vicar, the priest. + - The penitential canons are imposed only on the living, and, + according to the canons themselves, nothing should be imposed on the dying. + - Therefore the Holy Spirit through the pope is kind to us insofar as + the pope in his decrees always makes exception of the article of death and + of necessity. + - Those priests act ignorantly and wickedly who, in the case of the + dying, reserve canonical penalties for purgatory. + - Those tares of changing the canonical penalty to the penalty of + purgatory were evidently sown while the bishops slept (Mt 13:25). + - In former times canonical penalties were imposed, not after, but + before absolution, as tests of true contrition. + - The dying are freed by death from all penalties, are already dead as + far as the canon laws are concerned, and have a right to be released from + them. + - Imperfect piety or love on the part of the dying person necessarily + brings with it great fear; and the smaller the love, the greater the fear. + - This fear or horror is sufficient in itself, to say nothing of other + things, to constitute the penalty of purgatory, since it is very near to + the horror of despair. + - Hell, purgatory, and heaven seem to differ the same as despair, + fear, and assurance of salvation. + - It seems as though for the souls in purgatory fear should + necessarily decrease and love increase. + - Furthermore, it does not seem proved, either by reason or by + Scripture, that souls in purgatory are outside the state of merit, that is, + unable to grow in love. + - Nor does it seem proved that souls in purgatory, at least not all of + them, are certain and assured of their own salvation, even if we ourselves + may be entirely certain of it. + - Therefore the pope, when he uses the words "plenary remission of + all penalties," does not actually mean "all penalties," but only + those imposed by himself. + - Thus those indulgence preachers are in error who say that a man is + absolved from every penalty and saved by papal indulgences. + - As a matter of fact, the pope remits to souls in purgatory no + penalty which, according to canon law, they should have paid in this life. + - If remission of all penalties whatsoever could be granted to anyone + at all, certainly it would be granted only to the most perfect, that is, to + very few. + - For this reason most people are necessarily deceived by that + indiscriminate and high-sounding promise of release from penalty. + - That power which the pope has in general over purgatory corresponds + to the power which any bishop or curate has in a particular way in his own + diocese and parish. + - The pope does very well when he grants remission to souls in + purgatory, not by the power of the keys, which he does not have, but by way + of intercession for them. + - They preach only human doctrines who say that as soon as the money + clinks into the money chest, the soul flies out of purgatory. + - It is certain that when money clinks in the money chest, greed and + avarice can be increased; but when the church intercedes, the result is in + the hands of God alone. + - Who knows whether all souls in purgatory wish to be redeemed, since + we have exceptions in St. Severinus and St. Paschal, as related in a + legend. + - No one is sure of the integrity of his own contrition, much less of + having received plenary remission. + - The man who actually buys indulgences is as rare as he who is really + penitent; indeed, he is exceedingly rare. + - Those who believe that they can be certain of their salvation + because they have indulgence letters will be eternally damned, together + with their teachers. + - Men must especially be on guard against those who say that the + pope's pardons are that inestimable gift of God by which man is reconciled + to him. + - For the graces of indulgences are concerned only with the penalties + of sacramental satisfaction established by man. + - They who teach that contrition is not necessary on the part of those + who intend to buy souls out of purgatory or to buy confessional privileges + preach unchristian doctrine. + - Any truly repentant Christian has a right to full remission of + penalty and guilt, even without indulgence letters. + - Any true Christian, whether living or dead, participates in all the + blessings of Christ and the church; and this is granted him by God, even + without indulgence letters. + - Nevertheless, papal remission and blessing are by no means to be + disregarded, for they are, as I have said (Thesis 6), the proclamation of + the divine remission. + - It is very difficult, even for the most learned theologians, at one + and the same time to commend to the people the bounty of indulgences and + the need of true contrition. + - A Christian who is truly contrite seeks and loves to pay penalties + for his sins; the bounty of indulgences, however, relaxes penalties and + causes men to hate them -- at least it furnishes occasion for hating them. + - Papal indulgences must be preached with caution, lest people + erroneously think that they are preferable to other good works of love. + - Christians are to be taught that the pope does not intend that the + buying of indulgences should in any way be compared with works of mercy. + - Christians are to be taught that he who gives to the poor or lends + to the needy does a better deed than he who buys indulgences. + - Because love grows by works of love, man thereby becomes better. Man + does not, however, become better by means of indulgences but is merely + freed from penalties. + - Christians are to be taught that he who sees a needy man and passes + him by, yet gives his money for indulgences, does not buy papal indulgences + but God's wrath. + - Christians are to be taught that, unless they have more than they + need, they must reserve enough for their family needs and by no means + squander it on indulgences. + - Christians are to be taught that they buying of indulgences is a + matter of free choice, not commanded. + - Christians are to be taught that the pope, in granting indulgences, + needs and thus desires their devout prayer more than their money. + - Christians are to be taught that papal indulgences are useful only + if they do not put their trust in them, but very harmful if they lose their + fear of God because of them. + - Christians are to be taught that if the pope knew the exactions of + the indulgence preachers, he would rather that the basilica of St. Peter + were burned to ashes than built up with the skin, flesh, and bones of his + sheep. + - Christians are to be taught that the pope would and should wish to + give of his own money, even though he had to sell the basilica of St. + Peter, to many of those from whom certain hawkers of indulgences cajole + money. + - It is vain to trust in salvation by indulgence letters, even though + the indulgence commissary, or even the pope, were to offer his soul as + security. + - They are the enemies of Christ and the pope who forbid altogether + the preaching of the Word of God in some churches in order that indulgences + may be preached in others. + - Injury is done to the Word of God when, in the same sermon, an equal + or larger amount of time is devoted to indulgences than to the Word. + - It is certainly the pope's sentiment that if indulgences, which are + a very insignificant thing, are celebrated with one bell, one procession, + and one ceremony, then the gospel, which is the very greatest thing, should + be preached with a hundred bells, a hundred processions, a hundred + ceremonies. + - The true treasures of the church, out of which the pope distributes + indulgences, are not sufficiently discussed or known among the people of + Christ. + - That indulgences are not temporal treasures is certainly clear, for + many indulgence sellers do not distribute them freely but only gather them. + - Nor are they the merits of Christ and the saints, for, even without + the pope, the latter always work grace for the inner man, and the cross, + death, and hell for the outer man. + - St. Lawrence said that the poor of the church were the treasures of + the church, but he spoke according to the usage of the word in his own + time. + - Without want of consideration we say that the keys of the church, + given by the merits of Christ, are that treasure. + - For it is clear that the pope's power is of itself sufficient for + the remission of penalties and cases reserved by himself. + - The true treasure of the church is the most holy gospel of the glory + and grace of God. + - But this treasure is naturally most odious, for it makes the first + to be last (Mt. 20:16). + - On the other hand, the treasure of indulgences is naturally most + acceptable, for it makes the last to be first. + - Therefore the treasures of the gospel are nets with which one + formerly fished for men of wealth. + - The treasures of indulgences are nets with which one now fishes for + the wealth of men. + - The indulgences which the demagogues acclaim as the greatest graces + are actually understood to be such only insofar as they promote gain. + - They are nevertheless in truth the most insignificant graces when + compared with the grace of God and the piety of the cross. + - Bishops and curates are bound to admit the commissaries of papal + indulgences with all reverence. + - But they are much more bound to strain their eyes and ears lest + these men preach their own dreams instead of what the pope has + commissioned. + - Let him who speaks against the truth concerning papal indulgences be + anathema and accursed. + - But let him who guards against the lust and license of the + indulgence preachers be blessed. + - Just as the pope justly thunders against those who by any means + whatever contrive harm to the sale of indulgences. + - Much more does he intend to thunder against those who use + indulgences as a pretext to contrive harm to holy love and truth. + - To consider papal indulgences so great that they could absolve a man + even if he had done the impossible and had violated the mother of God is + madness. + - We say on the contrary that papal indulgences cannot remove the very + least of venial sins as far as guilt is concerned. + - To say that even St. Peter if he were now pope, could not grant + greater graces is blasphemy against St. Peter and the pope. + - We say on the contrary that even the present pope, or any pope + whatsoever, has greater graces at his disposal, that is, the gospel, + spiritual powers, gifts of healing, etc., as it is written. (1 Co + 12[:28]) + - To say that the cross emblazoned with the papal coat of arms, and + set up by the indulgence preachers is equal in worth to the cross of Christ + is blasphemy. + - The bishops, curates, and theologians who permit such talk to be + spread among the people will have to answer for this. + - This unbridled preaching of indulgences makes it difficult even for + learned men to rescue the reverence which is due the pope from slander or + from the shrewd questions of the laity. + - "Such as: \"Why does not the pope empty purgatory for the sake of + holy love and the dire need of the souls that are there if he redeems an + infinite number of souls for the sake of miserable money with which to + build a church?\" The former reason would be most just; the latter is + most trivial." + - Again, "Why are funeral and anniversary masses for the dead + continued and why does he not return or permit the withdrawal of the + endowments founded for them, since it is wrong to pray for the + redeemed?" + - Again, "What is this new piety of God and the pope that for a + consideration of money they permit a man who is impious and their enemy to + buy out of purgatory the pious soul of a friend of God and do not rather, + beca use of the need of that pious and beloved soul, free it for pure + love's sake?" + - Again, "Why are the penitential canons, long since abrogated and + dead in actual fact and through disuse, now satisfied by the granting of + indulgences as though they were still alive and in force?" + - Again, "Why does not the pope, whose wealth is today greater than + the wealth of the richest Crassus, build this one basilica of St. Peter + with his own money rather than with the money of poor believers?" + - Again, "What does the pope remit or grant to those who by perfect + contrition already have a right to full remission and blessings?" + - Again, "What greater blessing could come to the church than if + the pope were to bestow these remissions and blessings on every believer a + hundred times a day, as he now does but once?" + - "Since the pope seeks the salvation of souls rather than money by + his indulgences, why does he suspend the indulgences and pardons previously + granted when they have equal efficacy?" + - To repress these very sharp arguments of the laity by force alone, + and not to resolve them by giving reasons, is to expose the church and the + pope to the ridicule of their enemies and to make Christians unhappy. + - If, therefore, indulgences were preached according to the spirit and + intention of the pope, all these doubts would be readily resolved. Indeed, + they would not exist. + - Away, then, with all those prophets who say to the people of Christ, + "Peace, peace," and there is no peace! (Jer 6:14) + - Blessed be all those prophets who say to the people of Christ, + "Cross, cross," and there is no cross! + - Christians should be exhorted to be diligent in following Christ, + their Head, through penalties, death and hell. + - And thus be confident of entering into heaven through many + tribulations rather than through the false security of peace (Acts 14:22). +... diff --git a/data/second-london/1689-confession.yaml b/data/second-london/1689-confession.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..2259b43e13c717c38f0f4596cd1180879464f271 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/second-london/1689-confession.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,2435 @@ +--- +name: 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith +publication_year: 1689 +image: lbc.jpg +type: confession +chapters: + - name: Of the Holy Scriptures + number: 1 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + The Holy Scripture is the only sufficient, certain, and infallible rule + of all saving knowledge, faith, and obedience, although the light of nature, + and the works of creation and providence do so far manifest the goodness, + wisdom, and power of God, as to leave men inexcusable; yet are they not + sufficient to give that knowledge of God and his will which is necessary + unto salvation. Therefore it pleased the Lord at sundry times and in divers + manners to reveal himself, and to declare that his will unto his church; + and afterward for the better preserving and propagating of the truth, and + for the more sure establishment and comfort of the church against the corruption + of the flesh, and the malice of Satan, and of the world, to commit the same + wholly unto writing; which maketh the Holy Scriptures to be most necessary, + those former ways of God's revealing his will unto his people being now + ceased. + verses: + - 2Tim.3.15-2Tim.3.17 + - Isa.8.20 + - Luke.16.29,Luke.16.31 + - Eph.2.20 + - Rom.1.19-Rom.1.21 + - Rom.2.14-Rom.2.15 + - Ps.19.1-Ps.19.3 + - Heb.1.1 + - Prov.22.19-Prov.22.21 + - Rom.15.4 + - 2Pet.1.19-2Pet.1.20 + - number: 2 + text: >- + Under the name of Holy Scripture, or the Word of God written, are now contained + all the books of the Old and New Testaments, which are these: Of the Old + Testament: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, + Ruth, 1 Samuel, 2 Samuel, 1 Kings, 2 Kings, 1 Chronicles, 2 Chronicles, + Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, The Song of + Solomen, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, + Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi + Of the New Testament: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, The Acts of the Apostles, + Paul's Epistle to the Romans, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians, + Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians, 1 + Timothy, 2 Timothy, To Titus, To Philemon, The Epistle to the Hebrews, + Epistle of James, The first and second Epistles of Peter, The first, second, + and third Epistles of John, The Epistle of Jude, The Revelation All of which + are given by the inspiration of God, to be the rule of faith and life. + verses: + - 2Tim.3.16 + - number: 3 + text: >- + The books commonly called Apocrypha, not being of divine inspiration, are + no part of the canon or rule of the Scripture, and, therefore, are of no + authority to the church of God, nor to be any otherwise approved or made + use of than other human writings. + verses: + - Luke.24.27,Luke.24.44 + - Rom.3.2 + - number: 4 + text: >- + The authority of the Holy Scripture, for which it ought to be believed, + dependeth not upon the testimony of any man or church, but wholly upon God + (who is truth itself), the author thereof; therefore it is to be received + because it is the Word of God. + verses: + - 2Pet.1.19-2Pet.1.21 + - 2Tim.3.16 + - 2Thess.2.13 + - 1John.5.9 + - number: 5 + text: >- + We may be moved and induced by the testimony of the church of God to an + high and reverent esteem of the Holy Scriptures; and the heavenliness of + the matter, the efficacy of the doctrine, and the majesty of the style, + the consent of all the parts, the scope of the whole (which is to give all + glory to God), the full discovery it makes of the only way of man's salvation, + and many other incomparable excellencies, and entire perfections thereof, + are arguments whereby it doth abundantly evidence itself to be the Word + of God; yet notwithstanding, our full persuasion and assurance of the infallible + truth, and divine authority thereof, is from the inward work of the Holy + Spirit bearing witness by and with the Word in our hearts. + verses: + - John.16.13-John.16.14 + - 1Cor.2.10-1Cor.2.12 + - 1John.2.20,1John.2.27 + - number: 6 + text: >- + The whole counsel of God concerning all things necessary for his own glory, + man's salvation, faith and life, is either expressly set down or necessarily + contained in the Holy Scripture: unto which nothing at any time is to be + added, whether by new revelation of the Spirit, or traditions of men. Nevertheless, + we acknowledge the inward illumination of the Spirit of God to be necessary + for the saving understanding of such things as are revealed in the Word, + and that there are some circumstances concerning the worship of God, and + government of the church, common to human actions and societies, which are + to be ordered by the light of nature and Christian prudence, according to + the general rules of the Word, which are always to be observed. + verses: + - 2Tim.3.15-2Tim.3.17 + - Gal.1.8-Gal.1.9 + - John.6.45 + - 1Cor.2.9-1Cor.2.12 + - 1Cor.11.13-1Cor.11.14 + - 1Cor.14.26,1Cor.14.40 + - number: 7 + text: >- + All things in Scripture are not alike plain in themselves, nor alike clear + unto all; yet those things which are necessary to be known, believed and + observed for salvation, are so clearly propounded and opened in some place + of Scripture or other, that not only the learned, but the unlearned, in + a due use of ordinary means, may attain to a sufficient understanding of + them. + verses: + - 2Pet.3.16 + - Ps.19.7 + - Ps.119.130 + - number: 8 + text: >- + The Old Testament in Hebrew (which was the native language of the people + of God of old), and the New Testament in Greek (which at the time of the + writing of it was most generally known to the nations), being immediately + inspired by God, and by his singular care and providence kept pure in all + ages, are therefore authentic; so as in all controversies of religion, the + church is finally to appeal to them. But because these original tongues + are not known to all the people of God, who have a right unto, and interest + in the Scriptures, and are commanded in the fear of God to read and search + them, therefore they are to be translated into the vulgar language of every + nation unto which they come, that the Word of God dwelling plentifully in + all, they may worship him in an acceptable manner, and through patience + and comfort of the Scriptures may have hope. + verses: + - Rom.3.2 + - Isa.8.20 + - Acts.15.15 + - John.5.39 + - 1Cor.14.6,1Cor.14.9,1Cor.14.11-1Cor.14.12,1Cor.14.24,1Cor.14.28 + - Col.3.16 + - number: 9 + text: >- + The infallible rule of interpretation of Scripture is the Scripture itself; + and therefore when there is a question about the true and full sense of + any Scripture (which is not manifold, but one), it must be searched by other + places that speak more clearly. + verses: + - 2Pet.1.20-2Pet.1.21 + - Acts.15.15-Acts.15.16 + - number: 10 + text: >- + The supreme judge, by which all controversies of religion are to be determined, + and all decrees of councils, opinions of ancient writers, doctrines of men, + and private spirits, are to be examined, and in whose sentence we are to + rest, can be no other but the Holy Scripture delivered by the Spirit, into + which Scripture so delivered, our faith is finally resolved. + verses: + - Matt.22.29,Matt.22.31-Matt.22.32 + - Eph.2.20 + - Acts.28.23 + - name: Of God and of the Holy Trinity + number: 2 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + The Lord our God is but one only living and true God; whose subsistence + is in and of himself, infinite in being and perfection; whose essence cannot + be comprehended by any but himself; a most pure spirit, invisible, without + body, parts, or passions, who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light + which no man can approach unto; who is immutable, immense, eternal, incomprehensible, + almighty, every way infinite, most holy, most wise, most free, most absolute; + working all things according to the counsel of his own immutable and most + righteous will for his own glory; most loving, gracious, merciful, long-suffering, + abundant in goodness and truth, forgiving iniquity, transgression, and sin; + the rewarder of them that diligently seek him, and withal most just and + terrible in his judgments, hating all sin, and who will by no means clear + the guilty. + verses: + - 1Cor.8.4,1Cor.8.6 + - Deut.6.4 + - Jer.10.10 + - Isa.48.12 + - Exod.3.14 + - John.4.24 + - 1Tim.1.17 + - Deut.4.15-Deut.4.16 + - Mal.3.6 + - 1Kgs.8.27 + - Jer.23.23 + - Ps.90.2 + - Gen.17.1 + - Isa.6.3 + - Ps.115.3 + - Isa.46.10 + - Prov.16.4 + - Rom.11.36 + - Exod.34.6-Exod.34.7 + - Heb.11.6 + - Neh.9.32-Neh.9.33 + - Ps.5.5-Ps.5.6 + - Exod.34.7 + - Nah.1.2-Nah.1.3 + - number: 2 + text: >- + God, having all life, glory, goodness, blessedness, in and of himself, is + alone in and unto himself allsufficient, not standing in need of any creature + which he hath made, nor deriving any glory from them, but only manifesting + his own glory in, by, unto, and upon them; he is the alone fountain of all + being, of whom, through whom, and to whom are all things, and he hath most + sovereign dominion over all creatures, to do by them, for them, or upon + them, whatsoever himself pleaseth; in his sight all things are open and + manifest, his knowledge is infinite, infallible, and independent upon the + creature, so as nothing is to him contingent or uncertain; he is most holy + in all his counsels, in all his works, and in all his commands; to him is + due from angels and men, whatsoever worship, service, or obedience, as creatures + they owe unto the Creator, and whatever he is further pleased to require + of them. + verses: + - John.5.26 + - Ps.148.13 + - Ps.119.68 + - Job.22.2-Job.22.3 + - Rom.11.34-Rom.11.36 + - Dan.4.25,Dan.4.34-Dan.4.35 + - Heb.4.13 + - Ezek.11.5 + - Acts.15.18 + - Ps.145.17 + - Rev.5.12-Rev.5.14 + - number: 3 + text: >- + In this divine and infinite Being there are three subsistences, the Father, + the Word or Son, and Holy Spirit, of one substance, power, and eternity, + each having the whole divine essence, yet the essence undivided: the Father + is of none, neither begotten nor proceeding; the Son is eternally begotten + of the Father; the Holy Spirit proceeding from the Father and the Son; all + infinite, without beginning, therefore but one God, who is not to be divided + in nature and being, but distinguished by several peculiar relative properties + and personal relations; which doctrine of the Trinity is the foundation + of all our communion with God, and comfortable dependence on him. + verses: + - 1John.5.7 + - Matt.28.19 + - 2Cor.13.14 + - Exod.3.14 + - John.14.11 + - 1Cor.8.6 + - John.1.14,John.1.18 + - John.15.26 + - Gal.4.6 + - name: Of God's Decree + number: 3 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + God hath decreed in himself, from all eternity, by the most wise and holy + counsel of his own will, freely and unchangeably, all things, whatsoever + comes to pass; yet so as thereby is God neither the author of sin nor hath + fellowship with any therein; nor is violence offered to the will of the + creature, nor yet is the liberty or contingency of second causes taken away, + but rather established; in which appears his wisdom in disposing all things, + and power and faithfulness in accomplishing his decree. + verses: + - Isa.46.10 + - Eph.1.11 + - Heb.6.17 + - Rom.9.15,Rom.9.18 + - Jas.1.13 + - 1John.1.5 + - Acts.4.27-Acts.4.28 + - John.19.11 + - Num.23.19 + - Eph.1.3-Eph.1.5 + - number: 2 + text: >- + Although God knoweth whatsoever may or can come to pass, upon all supposed + conditions, yet hath he not decreed anything, because he foresaw it as future, + or as that which would come to pass upon such conditions. + verses: + - Acts.15.18 + - Rom.9.11,Rom.9.13,Rom.9.16,Rom.9.18 + - number: 3 + text: >- + By the decree of God, for the manifestation of his glory, some men and angels + are predestinated, or foreordained to eternal life through Jesus Christ, + to the praise of his glorious grace; others being left to act in their sin + to their just condemnation, to the praise of his glorious justice. + verses: + - 1Tim.5.21 + - Matt.25.34 + - Eph.1.5-Eph.1.6 + - Rom.9.22-Rom.9.23 + - Jude.1.4 + - number: 4 + text: >- + These angels and men thus predestinated and foreordained, are particularly + and unchangeably designed, and their number so certain and definite, that + it cannot be either increased or diminished. + verses: + - 2Tim.2.19 + - John.13.18 + - number: 5 + text: >- + Those of mankind that are predestinated to life, God, before the foundation + of the world was laid, according to his eternal and immutable purpose, and + the secret counsel and good pleasure of his will, hath chosen in Christ + unto everlasting glory, out of his mere free grace and love, without any + other thing in the creature as a condition or cause moving him thereunto. + verses: + - Eph.1.4,Eph.1.9,Eph.1.11 + - Rom.8.30 + - 2Tim.1.9 + - 1Thess.5.9 + - Rom.9.13,Rom.9.16 + - Eph.2.5,Eph.2.12 + - number: 6 + text: >- + As God hath appointed the elect unto glory, so he hath, by the eternal and + most free purpose of his will, foreordained all the means thereunto; wherefore + they who are elected, being fallen in Adam, are redeemed by Christ, are + effectually called unto faith in Christ, by his Spirit working in due season, + are justified, adopted, sanctified, and kept by his power through faith + unto salvation; neither are any other redeemed by Christ, or effectually + called, justified, adopted, sanctified, and saved, but the elect only. + verses: + - 1Pet.1.2 + - 2Thess.2.13 + - 1Thess.5.9-1Thess.5.10 + - Rom.8.30 + - 2Thess.2.13 + - 1Pet.1.5 + - John.10.26 + - John.17.9 + - John.6.64 + - number: 7 + text: >- + The doctrine of the high mystery of predestination is to be handled with + special prudence and care, that men attending the will of God revealed in + his Word, and yielding obedience thereunto, may, from the certainty of their + effectual vocation, be assured of their eternal election; so shall this + doctrine afford matter of praise, reverence, and admiration of God, and + of humility, diligence, and abundant consolation to all that sincerely obey + the gospel. + verses: + - 1Thess.1.4-1Thess.1.5 + - 2Pet.1.10 + - Eph.1.6 + - Rom.11.33 + - Rom.11.5-Rom.11.6,Rom.11.20 + - Luke.10.20 + - name: Of Creation + number: 4 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + In the beginning it pleased God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, for the + manifestation of the glory of his eternal power, wisdom, and goodness, to + create or make the world, and all things therein, whether visible or invisible, + in the space of six days, and all very good. + verses: + - John.1.2-John.1.3 + - Heb.1.2 + - Job.26.13 + - Rom.1.20 + - Col.1.16 + - Gen.1.31 + - number: 2 + text: >- + After God had made all other creatures, he created man, male and female, + with reasonable and immortal souls, rendering them fit unto that life to + God for which they were created; being made after the image of God, in knowledge, + righteousness, and true holiness; having the law of God written in their + hearts, and power to fulfil it, and yet under a possibility of transgressing, + being left to the liberty of their own will, which was subject to change. + verses: + - Gen.1.27 + - Gen.2.7 + - Eccl.7.29 + - Gen.1.26 + - Rom.2.14-Rom.2.15 + - Gen.3.6 + - number: 3 + text: >- + Besides the law written in their hearts, they received a command not to + eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, which whilst they kept, they + were happy in their communion with God, and had dominion over the creatures. + verses: + - Gen.2.17 + - Gen.1.26,Gen.1.28 + - name: Of Divine Providence + number: 5 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + God the good Creator of all things, in his infinite power and wisdom doth + uphold, direct, dispose, and govern all creatures and things, from the greatest + even to the least, by his most wise and holy providence, to the end for + the which they were created, according unto his infallible foreknowledge, + and the free and immutable counsel of his own will; to the praise of the + glory of his wisdom, power, justice, infinite goodness, and mercy. + verses: + - Heb.1.3 + - Job.38.11 + - Isa.46.10-Isa.46.11 + - Ps.135.6 + - Matt.10.29-Matt.10.31 + - Eph.1.11 + - number: 2 + text: >- + Although in relation to the foreknowledge and decree of God, the first cause, + all things come to pass immutably and infallibly; so that there is not anything + befalls any by chance, or without his providence; yet by the same providence + he ordereth them to fall out according to the nature of second causes, either + necessarily, freely, or contingently. + verses: + - Acts.2.23 + - Prov.16.33 + - Gen.8.22 + - number: 3 + text: >- + God, in his ordinary providence maketh use of means, yet is free to work + without, above, and against them at his pleasure. + verses: + - Acts.27.31,Acts.27.44 + - Isa.55.10-Isa.55.11 + - Hos.1.7 + - Rom.4.19-Rom.4.21 + - Dan.3.27 + - number: 4 + text: >- + The almighty power, unsearchable wisdom, and infinite goodness of God, so + far manifest themselves in his providence, that his determinate counsel + extendeth itself even to the first fall, and all other sinful actions both + of angels and men; and that not by a bare permission, which also he most + wisely and powerfully boundeth, and otherwise ordereth and governeth, in + a manifold dispensation to his most holy ends; yet so, as the sinfulness + of their acts proceedeth only from the creatures, and not from God, who, + being most holy and righteous, neither is nor can be the author or approver + of sin. + verses: + - Rom.11.32-Rom.11.34 + - 2Sam.24.1 + - 1Chr.21.1 + - 2Kgs.19.28 + - Ps.76.10 + - Gen.1.20 + - Isa.10.6-Isa.10.7,Isa.10.12 + - 1John.2.16 + - number: 5 + text: >- + The most wise, righteous, and gracious God doth oftentimes leave for a season + his own children to manifold temptations and the corruptions of their own + hearts, to chastise them for their former sins, or to discover unto them + the hidden strength of corruption and deceitfulness of their hearts, that + they may be humbled; and to raise them to a more close and constant dependence + for their support upon himself; and to make them more watchful against all + future occasions of sin, and for other just and holy ends. So that whatsoever + befalls any of his elect is by his appointment, for his glory, and their + good. + verses: + - 2Chr.32.25-2Chr.32.26,2Chr.32.31 + - 2Cor.12.7-2Cor.12.9 + - Rom.8.28 + - number: 6 + text: >- + As for those wicked and ungodly men whom God, as the righteous judge, for + former sin doth blind and harden; from them he not only withholdeth his + grace, whereby they might have been enlightened in their understanding, + and wrought upon their hearts; but sometimes also withdraweth the gifts + which they had, and exposeth them to such objects as their corruption makes + occasion of sin; and withal, gives them over to their own lusts, the temptations + of the world, and the power of Satan, whereby it comes to pass that they + harden themselves, under those means which God useth for the softening of + others. + verses: + - Rom.1.24-Rom.1.26,Rom.1.28 + - Rom.11.7-Rom.11.8 + - Deut.29.4 + - Matt.13.12 + - Deut.2.30 + - 2Kgs.8.12-2Kgs.8.13 + - Ps.81.11-Ps.81.12 + - 2Thess.2.10-2Thess.2.12 + - Exod.8.15,Exod.8.32 + - Isa.6.9-Isa.6.10 + - 1Pet.2.7-1Pet.2.8 + - number: 7 + text: >- + As the providence of God doth in general reach to all creatures, so after + a more special manner it taketh care of his church, and disposeth of all + things to the good thereof. + verses: + - 1Tim.4.10 + - Amos.9.8-Amos.9.9 + - Isa.43.3-Isa.43.5 + - name: Of the Fall of Man, Of Sin, And of the Punishment Thereof + number: 6 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + Although God created man upright and perfect, and gave him a righteous law, + which had been unto life had he kept it, and threatened death upon the breach + thereof, yet he did not long abide in this honour; Satan using the subtlety + of the serpent to subdue Eve, then by her seducing Adam, who, without any + compulsion, did willfully transgress the law of their creation, and the + command given unto them, in eating the forbidden fruit, which God was pleased, + according to his wise and holy counsel to permit, having purposed to order + it to his own glory. + verses: + - Gen.2.16-Gen.2.17 + - Gen.3.12-Gen.3.13 + - 2Cor.11.3 + - number: 2 + text: >- + Our first parents, by this sin, fell from their original righteousness and + communion with God, and we in them whereby death came upon all: all becoming + dead in sin, and wholly defiled in all the faculties and parts of soul and + body. + verses: + - Rom.3.23 + - Rom.5.12 + - Titus.1.15 + - Gen.6.5 + - Jer.17.9 + - Rom.3.10-Rom.3.19 + - number: 3 + text: >- + They being the root, and by God's appointment, standing in the room and + stead of all mankind, the guilt of the sin was imputed, and corrupted nature + conveyed, to all their posterity descending from them by ordinary generation, + being now conceived in sin, and by nature children of wrath, the servants + of sin, the subjects of death, and all other miseries, spiritual, temporal, + and eternal, unless the Lord Jesus set them free. + verses: + - Rom.5.12-Rom.5.19 + - 1Cor.15.21-1Cor.15.22,1Cor.15.45,1Cor.15.49 + - Ps.51.5 + - Job.14.4 + - Eph.2.3 + - Rom.6.20 + - Rom.5.12 + - Heb.2.14-Heb.2.15 + - 1Thess.1.10 + - number: 4 + text: >- + From this original corruption, whereby we are utterly indisposed, disabled, + and made opposite to all good, and wholly inclined to all evil, do proceed + all actual transgressions. + verses: + - Rom.8.7 + - Col.1.21 + - Jas.1.14-Jas.1.15 + - Matt.15.19 + - number: 5 + text: >- + The corruption of nature, during this life, doth remain in those that are + regenerated; and although it be through Christ pardoned and mortified, yet + both itself, and the first motions thereof, are truly and properly sin. + verses: + - Rom.7.18,Rom.7.23 + - Eccl.7.20 + - 1John.1.8 + - Rom.7.23-Rom.7.25 + - Gal.5.17 + - name: Of God's Covenant + number: 7 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + The distance between God and the creature is so great, that although reasonable + creatures do owe obedience to him as their creator, yet they could never + have attained the reward of life but by some voluntary condescension on + God's part, which he hath been pleased to express by way of covenant. + verses: + - Luke.17.10 + - Job.35.7-Job.35.8 + - number: 2 + text: >- + Moreover, man having brought himself under the curse of the law by his fall, + it pleased the Lord to make a covenant of grace, wherein he freely offereth + unto sinners life and salvation by Jesus Christ, requiring of them faith + in him, that they may be saved; and promising to give unto all those that + are ordained unto eternal life, his Holy Spirit, to make them willing and + able to believe. + verses: + - Gen.2.17 + - Gal.3.10 + - Rom.3.20-Rom.3.21 + - Rom.8.3 + - Mark.16.15-Mark.16.16 + - John.3.16 + - Ezek.36.26-Ezek.36.27 + - John.6.44-John.6.45 + - Ps.110.3 + - number: 3 + text: >- + This covenant is revealed in the gospel; first of all to Adam in the promise + of salvation by the seed of the woman, and afterwards by farther steps, + until the full discovery thereof was completed in the New Testament; and + it is founded in that eternal covenant transaction that was between the + Father and the Son about the redemption of the elect; and it is alone by + the grace of this covenant that all the posterity of fallen Adam that ever + were saved did obtain life and blessed immortality, man being now utterly + incapable of acceptance with God upon those terms on which Adam stood in + his state of innocency. + verses: + - Gen.3.15 + - Heb.1.1 + - 2Tim.1.9 + - Titus.1.2 + - Heb.11.6,Heb.11.13 + - Rom.4.1-Rom.4.2 + - Acts.4.12 + - John.8.56 + - name: Of Christ the Mediator + number: 8 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + It pleased God, in His eternal purpose, to choose and ordain the Lord Jesus, + his only begotten Son, according to the covenant made between them both, + to be the mediator between God and man; the prophet, priest, and king; head + and saviour of the church, the heir of all things, and judge of the world; + unto whom he did from all eternity give a people to be his seed and to be + by him in time redeemed, called, justified, sanctified, and glorified. + verses: + - Isa.42.1 + - 1Pet.1.19-1Pet.1.20 + - Acts.3.22 + - Heb.5.5-Heb.5.6 + - Ps.2.6 + - Luke.1.33 + - Eph.1.22-Eph.1.23 + - Heb.1.2 + - Acts.17.31 + - Isa.53.10 + - John.17.6 + - Rom.8.30 + - number: 2 + text: >- + The Son of God, the second person in the Holy Trinity, being very and eternal + God, the brightness of the Father's glory, of one substance and equal with + him who made the world, who upholdeth and governeth all things he hath made, + did, when the fullness of time was come, take upon him man's nature, with + all the essential properties and common infirmities thereof, yet without + sin; being conceived by the Holy Spirit in the womb of the Virgin Mary, + the Holy Spirit coming down upon her: and the power of the Most High overshadowing + her; and so was made of a woman of the tribe of Judah, of the seed of Abraham + and David according to the Scriptures; so that two whole, perfect, and distinct + natures were inseparably joined together in one person, without conversion, + composition, or confusion; which person is very God and very man, yet one + Christ, the only mediator between God and man. + verses: + - John.1.14 + - Gal.4.4 + - Rom.8.3 + - Heb.2.14,Heb.2.16-Heb.2.17 + - Heb.4.15 + - Matt.1.22-Matt.1.23 + - Luke.1.27,Luke.1.31,Luke.1.35 + - Rom.9.5 + - 1Tim.2.5 + - number: 3 + text: >- + The Lord Jesus, in his human nature thus united to the divine, in the person + of the Son, was sanctified and anointed with the Holy Spirit above measure, + having in Him all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge; in whom it pleased + the Father that all fullness should dwell, to the end that being holy, harmless, + undefiled, and full of grace and truth, he might be throughly furnished + to execute the office of mediator and surety; which office he took not upon + himself, but was thereunto called by his Father; who also put all power + and judgement in his hand, and gave him commandment to execute the same. + verses: + - Ps.45.7 + - Acts.10.38 + - John.3.34 + - Col.2.3 + - Col.1.19 + - Heb.7.26 + - John.1.14 + - Heb.7.22 + - Heb.5.5 + - John.5.22,John.5.27 + - Matt.28.18 + - Acts.2.36 + - number: 4 + text: >- + This office the Lord Jesus did most willingly undertake, which that he might + discharge he was made under the law, and did perfectly fulfil it, and underwent + the punishment due to us, which we should have borne and suffered, being + made sin and a curse for us; enduring most grievous sorrows in his soul, + and most painful sufferings in his body; was crucified, and died, and remained + in the state of the dead, yet saw no corruption: on the third day he arose + from the dead with the same body in which he suffered, with which he also + ascended into heaven, and there sitteth at the right hand of his Father + making intercession, and shall return to judge men and angels at the end + of the world. + verses: + - Ps.40.7-Ps.40.8 + - Heb.10.5-Heb.10.10 + - John.10.18 + - Gal.4.4 + - Matt.3.15 + - Gal.3.13 + - Isa.53.6 + - 1Pet.3.18 + - 2Cor.5.21 + - Matt.26.37-Matt.26.38 + - Luke.22.44 + - Matt.27.46 + - Acts.13.37 + - 1Cor.15.3-1Cor.15.4 + - John.20.25,John.20.27 + - Mark.16.19 + - Acts.1.9-Acts.1.11 + - Rom.8.34 + - Heb.9.24 + - Acts.10.42 + - Rom.14.9-Rom.14.10 + - Acts.1.11 + - 2Pet.2.4 + - number: 5 + text: >- + The Lord Jesus, by his perfect obedience and sacrifice of himself, which + he through the eternal Spirit once offered up unto God, hath fully satisfied + the justice of God, procured reconciliation, and purchased an everlasting + inheritance in the kingdom of heaven, for all those whom the Father hath + given unto Him. + verses: + - Heb.9.14 + - Heb.10.14 + - Rom.3.25-Rom.3.26 + - John.17.2 + - Heb.9.15 + - number: 6 + text: >- + Although the price of redemption was not actually paid by Christ till after + his incarnation, yet the virtue, efficacy, and benefit thereof were communicated + to the elect in all ages, successively from the beginning of the world, + in and by those promises, types, and sacrifices wherein he was revealed, + and signified to be the seed which should bruise the serpent's head; and + the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world, being the same yesterday, + and to-day and for ever. + verses: + - 1Cor.4.10 + - Heb.4.2 + - 1Pet.1.10-1Pet.1.11 + - Rev.13.8 + - Heb.13.8 + - number: 7 + text: >- + Christ, in the work of mediation, acteth according to both natures, by each + nature doing that which is proper to itself; yet by reason of the unity + of the person, that which is proper to one nature is sometimes in Scripture, + attributed to the person denominated by the other nature. + verses: + - John.3.13 + - Acts.20.28 + - number: 8 + text: >- + To all those for whom Christ hath obtained eternal redemption, he doth certainly + and effectually apply and communicate the same, making intercession for + them; uniting them to himself by his Spirit, revealing unto them, in and + by his Word, the mystery of salvation, persuading them to believe and obey, + governing their hearts by his Word and Spirit, and overcoming all their + enemies by his almighty power and wisdom, in such manner and ways as are + most consonant to his wonderful and unsearchable dispensation; and all of + free and absolute grace, without any condition foreseen in them to procure + it. + verses: + - John.6.37 + - John.10.15-John.10.16 + - John.17.9 + - Rom.5.10 + - John.17.6 + - Eph.1.9 + - 1John.5.20 + - Rom.8.9,Rom.8.14 + - Ps.110.1 + - 1Cor.15.25-1Cor.15.26 + - John.3.8 + - Eph.1.8 + - number: 9 + text: >- + This office of mediator between God and man is proper only to Christ, who + is the prophet, priest, and king of the church of God; and may not be either + in whole, or any part thereof, transferred from him to any other. + verses: + - 1Tim.2.5 + - number: 10 + text: >- + This number and order of offices is necessary; for in respect of our ignorance, + we stand in need of his prophetical office; and in respect of our alienation + from God, and imperfection of the best of our services, we need his priestly + office to reconcile us and present us acceptable unto God; and in respect + to our averseness and utter inability to return to God, and for our rescue + and security from our spiritual adversaries, we need his kingly office to + convince, subdue, draw, uphold, deliver, and preserve us to his heavenly + kingdom. + verses: + - John.1.18 + - Col.1.21 + - Gal.5.17 + - John.16.8 + - Ps.110.3 + - Luke.1.74-Luke.1.75 + - name: Of Free Will + number: 9 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + God hath endued the will of man with that natural liberty and power of acting + upon choice, that it is neither forced, nor by any necessity of nature determined + to do good or evil. + verses: + - Matt.17.12 + - Jas.1.14 + - Deut.30.19 + - number: 2 + text: >- + Man, in his state of innocency, had freedom and power to will and to do + that which was good and wellpleasing to God, but yet was unstable, so that + he might fall from it. + verses: + - Eccl.7.29 + - Gen.3.6 + - number: 3 + text: >- + Man, by his fall into a state of sin, hath wholly lost all ability of will + to any spiritual good accompanying salvation; so as a natural man, being + altogether averse from that good, and dead in sin, is not able by his own + strength to convert himself, or to prepare himself thereunto. + verses: + - Rom.5.6 + - Rom.8.7 + - Eph.2.1,Eph.2.5 + - Titus.3.3-Titus.3.5 + - John.6.44 + - number: 4 + text: >- + When God converts a sinner, and translates him into the state of grace, + he freeth him from his natural bondage under sin, and by his grace alone + enables him freely to will and to do that which is spiritually good; yet + so as that by reason of his remaining corruptions, he doth not perfectly, + nor only will, that which is good, but doth also will that which is evil. + verses: + - Col.1.13 + - John.8.36 + - Phil.2.13 + - Rom.7.15,Rom.7.18-Rom.7.19,Rom.7.21,Rom.7.23 + - number: 5 + text: >- + This will of man is made perfectly and immutably free to good alone in the + state of glory only. + verses: + - Eph.4.13 + - name: Of Effectual Calling + number: 10 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + Those whom God hath predestinated unto life, he is pleased in his appointed, + and accepted time, effectually to call, by his Word and Spirit, out of that + state of sin and death in which they are by nature, to grace and salvation + by Jesus Christ; enlightening their minds spiritually and savingly to understand + the things of God; taking away their heart of stone, and giving unto them + a heart of flesh; renewing their wills, and by his almighty power determining + them to that which is good, and effectually drawing them to Jesus Christ; + yet so as they come most freely, being made willing by his grace. + verses: + - Rom.8.30 + - Rom.11.7 + - Eph.1.10-Eph.1.11 + - 2Thess.2.13-2Thess.2.14 + - Eph.2.1-Eph.2.6 + - Acts.26.18 + - Eph.1.17-Eph.1.18 + - Ezek.36.26 + - Deut.30.6 + - Ezek.36.27 + - Eph.1.19 + - Ps.110.3 + - Song.1.4 + - number: 2 + text: >- + This effectual call is of God's free and special grace alone, not from anything + at all foreseen in man, nor from any power or agency in the creature, being + wholly passive therein, being dead in sins and trespasses, until being quickened + and renewed by the Holy Spirit; he is thereby enabled to answer this call, + and to embrace the grace offered and conveyed in it, and that by no less + power than that which raised up Christ from the dead. + verses: + - 2Tim.1.9 + - Eph.2.8 + - 1Cor.2.14 + - Eph.2.5 + - John.5.25 + - Eph.1.19-Eph.1.20 + - number: 3 + text: >- + Elect infants dying in infancy are regenerated and saved by Christ through + the Spirit; who worketh when, and where, and how he pleases; so also are + all elect persons, who are incapable of being outwardly called by the ministry + of the Word. + verses: + - John.3.3,John.3.5-John.3.6 + - John.3.8 + - number: 4 + text: >- + Others not elected, although they may be called by the ministry of the Word, + and may have some common operations of the Spirit, yet not being effectually + drawn by the Father, they neither will nor can truly come to Christ, and + therefore cannot be saved: much less can men that receive not the Christian + religion be saved; be they never so diligent to frame their lives according + to the light of nature and the law of that religion they do profess. + verses: + - Matt.22.14 + - Matt.13.20-Matt.13.21 + - Heb.6.4-Heb.6.5 + - John.6.44-John.6.45,John.6.65 + - 1John.2.24-1John.2.25 + - Acts.4.12 + - John.4.22 + - John.17.3 + - name: Of Justification + number: 11 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + Those whom God effectually calleth, he also freely justifieth, not by infusing + righteousness into them, but by pardoning their sins, and by accounting + and accepting their persons as righteous; not for anything wrought in them, + or done by them, but for Christ's sake alone; not by imputing faith itself, + the act of believing, or any other evangelical obedience to them, as their + righteousness; but by imputing Christ's active obedience unto the whole + law, and passive obedience in his death for their whole and sole righteousness + by faith, which faith they have not of themselves; it is the gift of God. + verses: + - Rom.3.24 + - Rom.8.30 + - Rom.4.5-Rom.4.8 + - Eph.1.7 + - 1Cor.1.30-1Cor.1.31 + - Rom.5.17-Rom.5.19 + - Phil.3.8-Phil.3.9 + - Eph.2.8-Eph.2.10 + - John.1.12 + - Rom.5.17 + - number: 2 + text: >- + Faith thus receiving and resting on Christ and his righteousness, is the + alone instrument of justification; yet it is not alone in the person justified, + but is ever accompanied with all other saving graces, and is no dead faith, + but worketh by love. + verses: + - Rom.3.28 + - Gal.5.6 + - Jas.2.17,Jas.2.22,Jas.2.26 + - number: 3 + text: >- + Christ, by his obedience and death, did fully discharge the debt of all + those that are justified; and did, by the sacrifice of himself in the blood + of his cross, undergoing in their stead the penalty due unto them, make + a proper, real, and full satisfaction to God's justice in their behalf; + yet, inasmuch as he was given by the Father for them, and his obedience + and satisfaction accepted in their stead, and both freely, not for anything + in them, their justification is only of free grace, that both the exact + justice and rich grace of God might be glorified in the justification of + sinners. + verses: + - Heb.10.14 + - 1Pet.1.18-1Pet.1.19 + - Isa.53.5-Isa.53.6 + - Rom.8.32 + - 2Cor.5.21 + - Rom.3.26 + - Eph.1.6-Eph.1.7 + - Eph.2.7 + - number: 4 + text: >- + God did from all eternity decree to justify all the elect, and Christ did + in the fullness of time die for their sins, and rise again for their justification; + nevertheless, they are not justified personally, until the Holy Spirit doth + in time due actually apply Christ unto them. + verses: + - Gal.3.8 + - 1Pet.1.2 + - 1Tim.2.6 + - Rom.4.25 + - Col.1.21-Col.1.22 + - Titus.3.4-Titus.3.7 + - number: 5 + text: >- + God doth continue to forgive the sins of those that are justified, and although + they can never fall from the state of justification, yet they may, by their + sins, fall under God's fatherly displeasure; and in that condition they + have not usually the light of his countenance restored unto them, until + they humble themselves, confess their sins, beg pardon, and renew their + faith and repentance. + verses: + - Matt.6.12 + - 1John.1.7,1John.1.9 + - John.10.28 + - Ps.89.31-Ps.89.33 + - Ps.32.5 + - Ps.51 + - Matt.26.75 + - number: 6 + text: >- + The justification of believers under the Old Testament was, in all these + respects, one and the same with the justification of believers under the + New Testament. + verses: + - Gal.3.9 + - Rom.4.22-Rom.4.24 + - name: Of Adoption + number: 12 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + All those that are justified, God vouchsafed, in and for the sake of his + only Son Jesus Christ, to make partakers of the grace of adoption, by which + they are taken into the number, and enjoy the liberties and privileges of + the children of God, have his name put upon them, receive the spirit of + adoption, have access to the throne of grace with boldness, are enabled + to cry Abba, Father, are pitied, protected, provided for, and chastened + by him as by a Father, yet never cast off, but sealed to the day of redemption, + and inherit the promises as heirs of everlasting salvation. + verses: + - Eph.1.5 + - Gal.4.4-Gal.4.5 + - John.1.12 + - Rom.8.17 + - 2Cor.6.18 + - Rev.3.12 + - Rom.8.15 + - Gal.4.6 + - Eph.2.18 + - Ps.103.13 + - Prov.14.26 + - 1Pet.5.7 + - Heb.12.6 + - Isa.54.8-Isa.54.9 + - Lam.3.31 + - Eph.4.30 + - Heb.1.14 + - Heb.6.12 + - name: Of Sanctification + number: 13 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + They who are united to Christ, effectually called, and regenerated, having + a new heart and a new spirit created in them through the virtue of Christ's + death and resurrection, are also farther sanctified, really and personally, + through the same virtue, by His Word and Spirit dwelling in them; the dominion + of the whole body of sin is destroyed, and the several lusts thereof are + more and more weakened and mortified, and they more and more quickened and + strengthened in all saving graces, to the practice of all true holiness, + without which no man shall see the Lord. + verses: + - Acts.20.32 + - Rom.6.5-Rom.6.6 + - John.17.17 + - Eph.3.16-Eph.3.19 + - 1Thess.5.21-1Thess.5.23 + - Rom.6.14 + - Gal.5.24 + - Col.1.11 + - 2Cor.7.1 + - Heb.12.14 + - number: 2 + text: >- + This sanctification is throughout the whole man, yet imperfect in this life; + there abideth still some remnants of corruption in every part, whence ariseth + a continual and irreconcilable war; the flesh lusting against the Spirit, + and the Spirit against the flesh. + verses: + - 1Thess.5.23 + - Rom.7.18,Rom.7.23 + - Gal.5.17 + - 1Pet.2.11 + - number: 3 + text: >- + In which war, although the remaining corruption for a time may much prevail, + yet through the continual supply of strength from the sanctifying Spirit + of Christ, the regenerate part doth overcome; and so the saints grow in + grace, perfecting holiness in the fear of God, pressing after an heavenly + life, in evangelical obedience to all the commands which Christ as Head + and King, in His Word hath prescribed them. + verses: + - Rom.7.23 + - Rom.6.14 + - Eph.4.15-Eph.4.16 + - 2Cor.3.18 + - 2Cor.7.1 + - name: Of Saving Faith + number: 14 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + The grace of faith, whereby the elect are enabled to believe to the saving + of their souls, is the work of the Spirit of Christ in their hearts, and + is ordinarily wrought by the ministry of the Word; by which also, and by + the administration of baptism and the Lord's supper, prayer, and other means + appointed of God, it is increased and strengthened. + verses: + - 2Cor.4.13 + - Eph.2.8 + - Rom.10.14,Rom.10.17 + - Luke.17.5 + - 1Pet.2.2 + - Acts.20.32 + - number: 2 + text: >- + By this faith a Christian believeth to be true whatsoever is revealed in + the Word for the authority of God himself, and also apprehendeth an excellency + therein above all other writings and all things in the world, as it bears + forth the glory of God in his attributes, the excellency of Christ in his + nature and offices, and the power and fullness of the Holy Spirit in his + workings and operations: and so is enabled to cast his soul upon the truth + thus believed; and also acteth differently upon that which each particular + passage thereof containeth; yielding obedience to the commands, trembling + at the threatenings, and embracing the promises of God for this life and + that which is to come; but the principal acts of saving faith have immediate + relation to Christ, accepting, receiving, and resting upon him alone for + justification, sanctification, and eternal life, by virtue of the covenant + of grace. + verses: + - Acts.24.14 + - Ps.27.7-Ps.27.10 + - Ps.119.72 + - 2Tim.1.12 + - John.14.14 + - Isa.66.2 + - Heb.11.13 + - John.1.12 + - Acts.16.31 + - Gal.2.20 + - Acts.15.11 + - number: 3 + text: >- + This faith, although it be different in degrees, and may be weak or strong, + yet it is in the least degree of it different in the kind or nature of it, + as is all other saving grace, from the faith and common grace of temporary + believers; and therefore, though it may be many times assailed and weakened, + yet it gets the victory, growing up in many to the attainment of a full + assurance through Christ, who is both the author and finisher of our faith. + verses: + - Heb.5.13-Heb.5.14 + - Matt.6.30 + - Rom.4.19-Rom.4.20 + - 2Pet.1.1 + - Eph.6.16 + - 1John.5.4-1John.5.5 + - Heb.6.11-Heb.6.12 + - Col.2.2 + - Heb.12.2 + - name: Of Repentance Unto Life and Salvation + number: 15 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + Such of the elect as are converted at riper years, having sometime lived + in the state of nature, and therein served divers lusts and pleasures, God + in their effectual calling giveth them repentance unto life. + verses: + - Titus.3.2-Titus.3.5 + - number: 2 + text: >- + Whereas there is none that doth good and sinneth not, and the best of men + may, through the power and deceitfulness of their corruption dwelling in + them, with the prevalency of temptation, fall into great sins and provocations; + God hath, in the covenant of grace, mercifully provided that believers so + sinning and falling be renewed through repentance unto salvation. + verses: + - Eccl.7.20 + - Luke.22.31-Luke.22.32 + - number: 3 + text: >- + This saving repentance is an evangelical grace, whereby a person, being + by the Holy Spirit made sensible of the manifold evils of his sin, doth, + by faith in Christ, humble himself for it with godly sorrow, detestation + of it, and self-abhorrency, praying for pardon and strength of grace, with + a purpose and endeavour, by supplies of the Spirit, to walk before God unto + all well-pleasing in all things. + verses: + - Zech.12.10 + - Acts.11.18 + - Ezek.36.31 + - 2Cor.7.11 + - Ps.119.6 + - Ps.119.128 + - number: 4 + text: >- + As repentance is to be continued through the whole course of our lives, + upon the account of the body of death, and the motions thereof, so it is + every man's duty to repent of his particular known sins particularly. + verses: + - Luke.19.8 + - 1Tim.1.13,1Tim.1.15 + - number: 5 + text: >- + Such is the provision which God hath made through Christ in the covenant + of grace for the preservation of believers unto salvation; that although + there is no sin so small but it deserves damnation; yet there is no sin + so great that it shall bring damnation on them that repent; which makes + the constant preaching of repentance necessary. + verses: + - Rom.6.23 + - Isa.1.16-Isa.1.18 + - Isa.55.7 + - name: Of Good Works + number: 16 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + Good works are only such as God hath commanded in his Holy Word, and not + such as without the warrant thereof are devised by men out of blind zeal, + or upon any pretence of good intentions. + verses: + - Mic.6.8 + - Heb.13.21 + - Matt.15.9 + - Isa.29.13 + - number: 2 + text: >- + These good works, done in obedience to God's commandments, are the fruits + and evidences of a true and lively faith; and by them believers manifest + their thankfulness, strengthen their assurance, edify their brethren, adorn + the profession of the gospel, stop the mouths of the adversaries, and glorify + God, whose workmanship they are, created in Christ Jesus thereunto, that + having their fruit unto holiness they may have the end eternal life. + verses: + - Jas.2.18,Jas.2.22 + - Ps.116.12-Ps.116.13 + - 1John.2.3,1John.2.5 + - 2Pet.1.5-2Pet.1.11 + - Matt.5.16 + - 1Tim.6.1 + - 1Pet.2.15 + - Phil.1.11 + - Eph.2.10 + - Rom.6.22 + - number: 3 + text: >- + Their ability to do good works is not at all of themselves, but wholly from + the Spirit of Christ; and that they may be enabled thereunto, besides the + graces they have already received, there is necessary an actual influence + of the same Holy Spirit, to work in them to will and to do of his good pleasure; + yet they are not hereupon to grow negligent, as if they were not bound to + perform any duty, unless upon a special motion of the Spirit, but they ought + to be diligent in stirring up the grace of God that is in them. + verses: + - John.15.4-John.15.5 + - 2Cor.3.5 + - Phil.2.13 + - Phil.2.12 + - Heb.6.11-Heb.6.12 + - Isa.64.7 + - number: 4 + text: >- + They who in their obedience attain to the greatest height which is possible + in this life, are so far from being able to supererogate, and to do more + than God requires, as that they fall short of much which in duty they are + bound to do. + verses: + - Job.9.2-Job.9.3 + - Gal.5.17 + - Luke.17.10 + - number: 5 + text: >- + We cannot by our best works merit pardon of sin or eternal life at the hand + of God, by reason of the great disproportion that is between them and the + glory to come, and the infinite distance that is between us and God, whom + by them we can neither profit nor satisfy for the debt of our former sins; + but when we have done all we can, we have done but our duty, and are unprofitable + servants; and because as they are good they proceed from his Spirit, and + as they are wrought by us they are defiled and mixed with so much weakness + and imperfection, that they cannot endure the severity of God's punishment. + verses: + - Rom.3.20 + - Eph.2.8-Eph.2.9 + - Rom.4.6 + - Gal.5.22-Gal.5.23 + - Isa.64.6 + - Ps.143.2 + - number: 6 + text: >- + Yet notwithstanding the persons of believers being accepted through Christ, + their good works also are accepted in him; not as though they were in this + life wholly unblameable and unreprovable in God's sight, but that he, looking + upon them in his Son, is pleased to accept and reward that which is sincere, + although accompanied with many weaknesses and imperfections. + verses: + - Eph.1.6 + - 1Pet.2.5 + - Matt.25.21,Matt.25.23 + - Heb.6.10 + - number: 7 + text: >- + Works done by unregenerate men, although for the matter of them they may + be things which God commands, and of good use both to themselves and others; + yet because they proceed not from a heart purified by faith, nor are done + in a right manner according to the word, nor to a right end, the glory of + God, they are therefore sinful, and cannot please God, nor make a man meet + to receive grace from God, and yet their neglect of them is more sinful + and displeasing to God. + verses: + - 2Kgs.10.30 + - 1Kgs.21.27,1Kgs.21.29 + - Gen.4.5 + - Heb.11.4,Heb.11.6 + - 1Cor.13.1 + - Matt.6.2,Matt.6.5 + - Amos.5.21-Amos.5.22 + - Rom.9.16 + - Titus.3.5 + - Job.21.14-Job.21.15 + - Matt.25.41-Matt.25.43 + - name: Of The Perseverance of the Saints + number: 17 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + Those whom God hath accepted in the beloved, effectually called and sanctified + by his Spirit, and given the precious faith of his elect unto, can neither + totally nor finally fall from the state of grace, but shall certainly persevere + therein to the end, and be eternally saved, seeing the gifts and callings + of God are without repentance, whence he still begets and nourisheth in + them faith, repentance, love, joy, hope, and all the graces of the Spirit + unto immortality; and though many storms and floods arise and beat against + them, yet they shall never be able to take them off that foundation and + rock which by faith they are fastened upon; notwithstanding, through unbelief + and the temptations of Satan, the sensible sight of the light and love of + God may for a time be clouded and obscured from them, yet he is still the + same, and they shall be sure to be kept by the power of God unto salvation, + where they shall enjoy their purchased possession, they being engraven upon + the palm of his hands, and their names having been written in the book of + life from all eternity. + verses: + - John.10.28-John.10.29 + - Phil.1.6 + - 2Tim.2.19 + - 1John.2.19 + - Ps.89.31-Ps.89.32 + - 1Cor.11.32 + - Mal.3.6 + - number: 2 + text: >- + This perseverance of the saints depends not upon their own free will, but + upon the immutability of the decree of election, flowing from the free and + unchangeable love of God the Father, upon the efficacy of the merit and + intercession of Jesus Christ and union with him, the oath of God, the abiding + of his Spirit, and the seed of God within them, and the nature of the covenant + of grace; from all which ariseth also the certainty and infallibility thereof. + verses: + - Rom.8.30 + - Rom.9.11,Rom.9.16 + - Rom.5.9-Rom.5.10 + - John.14.19 + - Heb.6.17-Heb.6.18 + - 1John.3.9 + - Jer.32.40 + - number: 3 + text: >- + And though they may, through the temptation of Satan and of the world, the + prevalency of corruption remaining in them, and the neglect of means of + their preservation, fall into grievous sins, and for a time continue therein, + whereby they incur God's displeasure and grieve his Holy Spirit, come to + have their graces and comforts impaired, have their hearts hardened, and + their consciences wounded, hurt and scandalize others, and bring temporal + judgments upon themselves, yet shall they renew their repentance and be + preserved through faith in Christ Jesus to the end. + verses: + - Matt.26.70,Matt.26.72,Matt.26.74 + - Isa.64.5,Isa.64.9 + - Eph.4.30 + - Ps.51.10,Ps.51.12 + - Ps.32.3-Ps.32.4 + - 2Sam.12.14 + - Luke.22.32,Luke.22.61-Luke.22.62 + - name: Of the Assurance of Grace and Salvation + number: 18 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + Although temporary believers, and other unregenerate men, may vainly deceive + themselves with false hopes and carnal presumptions of being in the favour + of God and state of salvation, which hope of theirs shall perish; yet such + as truly believe in the Lord Jesus, and love him in sincerity, endeavouring + to walk in all good conscience before him, may in this life be certainly + assured that they are in the state of grace, and may rejoice in the hope + of the glory of God, which hope shall never make them ashamed. + verses: + - Job.8.13-Job.8.14 + - Matt.7.22-Matt.7.23 + - 1John.2.3 + - 1John.3.14,1John.3.18-1John.3.19,1John.3.21,1John.3.24 + - 1John.5.13 + - Rom.5.2,Rom.5.5 + - number: 2 + text: >- + This certainty is not a bare conjectural and probable persuasion grounded + upon a fallible hope, but an infallible assurance of faith founded on the + blood and righteousness of Christ revealed in the Gospel; and also upon + the inward evidence of those graces of the Spirit unto which promises are + made, and on the testimony of the Spirit of adoption, witnessing with our + spirits that we are the children of God; and, as a fruit thereof, keeping + the heart both humble and holy. + verses: + - Heb.6.11,Heb.6.19 + - Heb.6.17-Heb.6.18 + - 2Pet.1.4-2Pet.1.5,2Pet.1.10-2Pet.1.11 + - Rom.8.15-Rom.8.16 + - 1John.3.1-1John.3.3 + - number: 3 + text: >- + This infallible assurance doth not so belong to the essence of faith, but + that a true believer may wait long, and conflict with many difficulties + before he be partaker of it; yet being enabled by the Spirit to know the + things which are freely given him of God, he may, without extraordinary + revelation, in the right use of means, attain thereunto: and therefore it + is the duty of every one to give all diligence to make his calling and election + sure, that thereby his heart may be enlarged in peace and joy in the Holy + Spirit, in love and thankfulness to God, and in strength and cheerfulness + in the duties of obedience, the proper fruits of this assurance; -so far + is it from inclining men to looseness. + verses: + - Isa.50.10 + - Ps.88 + - Ps.77.1-Ps.77.12 + - 1John.4.13 + - Heb.6.11-Heb.6.12 + - Rom.5.1-Rom.5.2,Rom.5.5 + - Rom.14.17 + - Ps.119.32 + - Rom.6.1-Rom.6.2 + - Titus.2.11-Titus.2.12,Titus.2.14 + - number: 4 + text: >- + True believers may have the assurance of their salvation divers ways shaken, + diminished, and intermitted; as by negligence in preserving of it, by falling + into some special sin which woundeth the conscience and grieveth the Spirit; + by some sudden or vehement temptation, by God's withdrawing the light of + his countenance, and suffering even such as fear him to walk in darkness + and to have no light, yet are they never destitute of the seed of God and + life of faith, that love of Christ and the brethren, that sincerity of heart + and conscience of duty out of which, by the operation of the Spirit, this + assurance may in due time be revived, and by the which, in the meantime, + they are preserved from utter despair. + verses: + - Ps.51.8,Ps.51.12,Ps.51.14 + - Ps.116.11 + - Ps.77.7-Ps.77.8 + - Ps.31.22 + - Ps.30.7 + - 1John.3.9 + - Luke.22.32 + - Ps.42.5,Ps.42.11 + - Lam.3.26-Lam.3.31 + - name: Of the Law of God + number: 19 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + God gave to Adam a law of universal obedience written in his heart, and + a particular precept of not eating the fruit of the tree of knowledge of + good and evil; by which he bound him and all his posterity to personal, + entire, exact, and perpetual obedience; promised life upon the fulfilling, + and threatened death upon the breach of it, and endued him with power and + ability to keep it. + verses: + - Gen.1.27 + - Eccl.7.29 + - Rom.10.5 + - Gal.3.10,Gal.3.12 + - number: 2 + text: >- + The same law that was first written in the heart of man continued to be + a perfect rule of righteousness after the fall, and was delivered by God + upon Mount Sinai, in ten commandments, and written in two tables, the four + first containing our duty towards God, and the other six, our duty to man. + verses: + - Rom.2.14-Rom.2.15 + - Deut.10.4 + - number: 3 + text: >- + Besides this law, commonly called moral, God was pleased to give to the + people of Israel ceremonial laws, containing several typical ordinances, + partly of worship, prefiguring Christ, his graces, actions, sufferings, + and benefits; and partly holding forth divers instructions of moral duties, + all which ceremonial laws being appointed only to the time of reformation, + are, by Jesus Christ the true Messiah and only law-giver, who was furnished + with power from the Father for that end abrogated and taken away. + verses: + - Heb.10.1 + - Col.2.17 + - 1Cor.5.7 + - Col.2.14,Col.2.16-Col.2.17 + - Eph.2.14,Eph.2.16 + - number: 4 + text: >- + To them also he gave sundry judicial laws, which expired together with the + state of that people, not obliging any now by virtue of that institution; + their general equity only being of moral use. + verses: + - 1Cor.9.8-1Cor.9.10 + - number: 5 + text: >- + The moral law doth for ever bind all, as well justified persons as others, + to the obedience thereof, and that not only in regard of the matter contained + in it, but also in respect of the authority of God the Creator, who gave + it; neither doth Christ in the Gospel any way dissolve, but much strengthen + this obligation. + verses: + - Rom.13.8-Rom.13.10 + - Jas.2.8,Jas.2.10-Jas.2.12 + - Jas.2.10-Jas.2.11 + - Matt.5.17-Matt.5.19 + - Rom.3.31 + - number: 6 + text: >- + Although true believers be not under the law as a covenant of works, to + be thereby justified or condemned, yet it is of great use to them as well + as to others, in that as a rule of life, informing them of the will of God + and their duty, it directs and binds them to walk accordingly; discovering + also the sinful pollutions of their natures, hearts, and lives, so as examining + themselves thereby, they may come to further conviction of, humiliation + for, and hatred against, sin; together with a clearer sight of the need + they have of Christ and the perfection of his obedience; it is likewise + of use to the regenerate to restrain their corruptions, in that it forbids + sin; and the threatenings of it serve to shew what even their sins deserve, + and what afflictions in this life they may expect for them, although freed + from the curse and unallayed rigour thereof. The promises of it likewise + shew them God's approbation of obedience, and what blessings they may expect + upon the performance thereof, though not as due to them by the law as a + covenant of works; so as man's doing good and refraining from evil, because + the law encourageth to the one and deterreth from the other, is no evidence + of his being under the law and not under grace. + verses: + - Rom.6.14 + - Gal.2.16 + - Rom.8.1 + - Rom.10.4 + - Rom.3.20 + - Rom.7.7 + - Rom.6.12-Rom.6.14 + - 1Pet.3.8-1Pet.3.13 + - number: 7 + text: >- + Neither are the aforementioned uses of the law contrary to the grace of + the Gospel, but do sweetly comply with it, the Spirit of Christ subduing + and enabling the will of man to do that freely and cheerfully which the + will of God, revealed in the law, requireth to be done. + verses: + - Gal.3.21 + - Ezek.36.27 + - name: Of the Gospel, and of the Extent of the Grace Thereof + number: 20 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + The covenant of works being broken by sin, and made unprofitable unto life, + God was pleased to give forth the promise of Christ, the seed of the woman, + as the means of calling the elect, and begetting in them faith and repentance; + in this promise the gospel, as to the substance of it, was revealed, and + [is] therein effectual for the conversion and salvation of sinners. + verses: + - Gen.3.15 + - Rev.13.8 + - number: 2 + text: >- + This promise of Christ, and salvation by him, is revealed only by the Word + of God; neither do the works of creation or providence, with the light of + nature, make discovery of Christ, or of grace by him, so much as in a general + or obscure way; much less that men destitute of the revelation of Him by + the promise or gospel, should be enabled thereby to attain saving faith + or repentance. + verses: + - Rom.1.17 + - Rom.10.14-Rom.10.15,Rom.10.17 + - Prov.29.18 + - Isa.25.7 + - Isa.60.2-Isa.60.3 + - number: 3 + text: >- + The revelation of the gospel unto sinners, made in divers times and by sundry + parts, with the addition of promises and precepts for the obedience required + therein, as to the nations and persons to whom it is granted, is merely + of the sovereign will and good pleasure of God; not being annexed by virtue + of any promise to the due improvement of men's natural abilities, by virtue + of common light received without it, which none ever did make, or can do + so; and therefore in all ages, the preaching of the gospel has been granted + unto persons and nations, as to the extent or straitening of it, in great + variety, according to the counsel of the will of God. + verses: + - Ps.147.20 + - Acts.16.7 + - Rom.1.18-Rom.1.32 + - number: 4 + text: >- + Although the gospel be the only outward means of revealing Christ and saving + grace, and is, as such, abundantly sufficient thereunto; yet that men who + are dead in trespasses may be born again, quickened or regenerated, there + is moreover necessary an effectual insuperable work of the Holy Spirit upon + the whole soul, for the producing in them a new spiritual life; without + which no other means will effect their conversion unto God. + verses: + - Ps.110.3 + - 1Cor.2.14 + - Eph.1.19-Eph.1.20 + - John.6.44 + - 2Cor.4.4,2Cor.4.6 + - name: Of Christian Liberty and Liberty of Conscience + number: 21 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + The liberty which Christ hath purchased for believers under the gospel, + consists in their freedom from the guilt of sin, the condemning wrath of + God, the rigour and curse of the law, and in their being delivered from + this present evil world, bondage to Satan, and dominion of sin, from the + evil of afflictions, the fear and sting of death, the victory of the grave, + and ever- lasting damnation: as also in their free access to God, and their + yielding obedience unto Him, not out of slavish fear, but a child-like love + and willing mind. All which were common also to believers under the law + for the substance of them; but under the New Testament the liberty of Christians + is further enlarged, in their freedom from the yoke of a ceremonial law, + to which the Jewish church was subjected, and in greater boldness of access + to the throne of grace, and in fuller communications of the free Spirit + of God, than believers under the law did ordinarily partake of. + verses: + - Gal.3.13 + - Gal.1.4 + - Acts.26.18 + - Rom.8.3 + - Rom.8.28 + - 1Cor.15.54-1Cor.15.57 + - 2Thess.1.10 + - Rom.8.15 + - Luke.1.73-Luke.1.75 + - 1John.4.18 + - Gal.3.9,Gal.3.14 + - John.7.38-John.7.39 + - Heb.10.19-Heb.10.21 + - number: 2 + text: >- + God alone is Lord of the conscience, and hath left it free from the doctrines + and commandments of men which are in any thing contrary to his word, or + not contained in it. So that to believe such doctrines, or obey such commands + out of conscience, is to betray true liberty of conscience; and the requiring + of an implicit faith, an absolute and blind obedience, is to destroy liberty + of conscience and reason also. + verses: + - Jas.4.12 + - Rom.14.4 + - Acts.4.19,Acts.4.29 + - 1Cor.7.23 + - Matt.15.9 + - Col.2.20,Col.2.22-Col.2.23 + - 1Cor.3.5 + - 2Cor.1.24 + - number: 3 + text: >- + They who upon pretence of Christian liberty do practice any sin, or cherish + any sinful lust, as they do thereby pervert the main design of the grace + of the gospel to their own destruction, so they wholly destroy the end of + Christian liberty, which is, that being delivered out of the hands of all + our enemies, we might serve the Lord without fear, in holiness and righeousness + before Him, all the days of our lives. + verses: + - Rom.6.1-Rom.6.2 + - Gal.5.13 + - 2Pet.2.18,2Pet.2.21 + - name: Of Religious Worship and the Sabbath Day + number: 22 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + The light of nature shews that there is a God, who hath lordship and sovereignty + over all; is just, good and doth good unto all; and is therefore to be feared, + loved, praised, called upon, trusted in, and served, with all the heart + and all the soul, and with all the might. But the acceptable way of worshipping + the true God, is instituted by himself, and so limited by his own revealed + will, that he may not be worshipped according to the imagination and devices + of men, nor the suggestions of Satan, under any visible representations, + or any other way not prescribed in the Holy Scriptures. + verses: + - Jer.10.7 + - Mark.12.33 + - Deut.12.32 + - Exod.20.4-Exod.20.6 + - number: 2 + text: >- + Religious worship is to be given to God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, + and to him alone; not to angels, saints, or any other creatures; and since + the fall, not without a mediator, nor in the mediation of any other but + Christ alone. + verses: + - Matt.4.9-Matt.4.10 + - John.6.23 + - Matt.28.19 + - Rom.1.25 + - Col.2.18 + - Rev.19.10 + - John.14.6 + - 1Tim.2.5 + - number: 3 + text: >- + Prayer, with thanksgiving, being one part of natural worship, is by God + required of all men. But that it may be accepted, it is to be made in the + name of the Son, by the help of the Spirit, according to his will; with + understanding, reverence, humility, fervency, faith, love, and perseverance; + and when with others, in a known tongue. + verses: + - Ps.95.1-Ps.95.7 + - Ps.65.2 + - John.14.13-John.14.14 + - Rom.8.26 + - 1John.5.14 + - 1Cor.14.16-1Cor.14.17 + - number: 4 + text: >- + Prayer is to be made for things lawful, and for all sorts of men living, + or that shall live hereafter; but not for the dead, nor for those of whom + it may be known that they have sinned the sin unto death. + verses: + - 1Tim.2.1-1Tim.2.2 + - 2Sam.7.29 + - 2Sam.12.21-2Sam.12.23 + - 1John.5.16 + - number: 5 + text: >- + The reading of the Scriptures, preaching, and hearing the Word of God, teaching + and admonishing one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing + with grace in our hearts to the Lord; as also the administration of baptism, + and the Lord's supper, are all parts of religious worship of God, to be + performed in obedience to him, with understanding, faith, reverence, and + godly fear; moreover, solemn humiliation, with fastings, and thanksgivings, + upon special occasions, ought to be used in an holy and religious manner. + verses: + - 1Tim.4.13 + - 2Tim.4.2 + - Luke.8.18 + - Col.3.16 + - Eph.5.19 + - Matt.28.19-Matt.28.20 + - 1Cor.11.26 + - Esth.4.16 + - Joel.2.12 + - Exod.15.1-Exod.15.19 + - Ps.107 + - number: 6 + text: >- + Neither prayer nor any other part of religious worship, is now under the + gospel, tied unto, or made more acceptable by any place in which it is performed, + or towards which it is directed; but God is to be worshipped everywhere + in spirit and in truth; as in private families daily, and in secret each + one by himself; so more solemnly in the public assemblies, which are not + carelessly nor wilfully to be neglected or forsaken, when God by his word + or providence calleth thereunto. + verses: + - John.4.21 + - Mal.1.11 + - 1Tim.2.8 + - Acts.10.2 + - Matt.6.11 + - Ps.55.17 + - Matt.6.6 + - Heb.10.25 + - Acts.2.42 + - number: 7 + text: >- + As it is the law of nature, that in general a proportion of time, by God's + appointment, be set apart for the worship of God, so by his Word, in a positive + moral, and perpetual commandment, binding all men, in all ages, he hath + particularly appointed one day in seven for a sabbath to be kept holy unto + him, which from the beginning of the world to the resurrection of Christ + was the last day of the week, and from the resurrection of Christ was changed + into the first day of the week, which is called the Lord's day: and is to + be continued to the end of the world as the Christian Sabbath, the observation + of the last day of the week being abolished. + verses: + - Exod.20.8 + - 1Cor.16.1-1Cor.16.2 + - Acts.20.7 + - Rev.1.10 + - number: 8 + text: >- + The sabbath is then kept holy unto the Lord, when men, after a due preparing + of their hearts, and ordering their common affairs aforehand, do not only + observe an holy rest all day, from their own works, words and thoughts, + about their worldly employment and recreations, but are also taken up the + whole time in the public and private exercises of his worship, and in the + duties of necessity and mercy. + verses: + - Isa.58.13 + - Neh.13.15-Neh.13.22 + - Matt.12.1-Matt.12.13 + - name: Of Lawful Oaths and Vows + number: 23 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + A lawful oath is a part of religious worship, wherein the person swearing + in truth, righteousness, and judgement, solemnly calleth God to witness + what he sweareth, and to judge him according to the truth or falseness thereof. + verses: + - Exod.20.7 + - Deut.10.20 + - Jer.4.2 + - 2Chr.6.22-2Chr.6.23 + - number: 2 + text: >- + The name of God only is that by which men ought to swear; and therein it + is to be used, with all holy fear and reverence; therefore to swear vainly + or rashly by that glorious and dreadful name, or to swear at all by any + other thing, is sinful, and to be abhorred; yet as in matter of weight and + moment, for confirmation of truth, and ending all strife, an oath is warranted + by the word of God; so a lawful oath being imposed by lawful authority in + such matters, ought to be taken. + verses: + - Matt.5.34,Matt.5.37 + - Jas.5.12 + - Heb.6.16 + - 2Cor.1.23 + - Neh.13.25 + - number: 3 + text: >- + Whosoever taketh an oath warranted by the Word of God, ought duly to consider + the weightiness of so solemn an act, and therein to avouch nothing but what + he knoweth to be truth; for that by rash, false, and vain oaths, the Lord + is provoked, and for them this land mourns. + verses: + - Lev.19.12 + - Jer.23.10 + - number: 4 + text: >- + An oath is to be taken in the plain and common sense of the words, without + equivocation or mental reservation. + verses: + - Ps.24.4 + - number: 5 + text: >- + A vow, which is not to be made to any creature, but to God alone, is to + be made and performed with all religious care and faithfulness; but popish + monastical vows of perpetual single life, professed poverty, and regular + obedience, are so far from being degrees of higher perfection, that they + are superstitious and sinful snares, in which no Christian may entangle + himself. + verses: + - Ps.76.11 + - Gen.28.20-Gen.28.22 + - 1Cor.7.2,1Cor.7.9 + - Eph.4.28 + - Matt.19.11 + - name: Of the Civil Magistrate + number: 24 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + God, the supreme Lord and King of all the world, hath ordained civil magistrates + to be under him, over the people, for his own glory and the public good; + and to this end hath armed them with the power of the sword, for defence + and encouragement of them that do good, and for the punishment of evil doers. + verses: + - Rom.13.1-Rom.13.4 + - number: 2 + text: >- + It is lawful for Christians to accept and execute the office of a magistrate + when called there unto; in the management whereof, as they ought especially + to maintain justice and peace, according to the wholesome laws of each kingdom + and commonwealth, so for that end they may lawfully now, under the New Testament + wage war upon just and necessary occasions. + verses: + - 2Sam.23.3 + - Ps.82.3-Ps.82.4 + - Luke.3.14 + - number: 3 + text: >- + Civil magistrates being set up by God for the ends aforesaid; subjection, + in all lawful things commanded by them, ought to be yielded by us in the + Lord, not only for wrath, but for conscience sake; and we ought to make + supplications and prayers for kings and all that are in authority, that + under them we may live a quiet and peaceable life, in all godliness and + honesty. + verses: + - Rom.13.5-Rom.13.7 + - 1Pet.2.17 + - 1Tim.2.1-1Tim.2.2 + - name: Of Marriage + number: 25 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + Marriage is to be between one man and one woman; neither is it lawful for + any man to have more than one wife, nor for any woman to have more than + one husband at the same time. + verses: + - Gen.2.24 + - Mal.2.15 + - Matt.19.5-Matt.19.6 + - number: 2 + text: >- + Marriage was ordained for the mutual help of husband and wife, for the increase + of mankind with a legitimate issue, and the preventing of uncleanness. + verses: + - Gen.2.18 + - Gen.1.28 + - 1Cor.7.2,1Cor.7.9 + - number: 3 + text: >- + It is lawful for all sorts of people to marry, who are able with judgment + to give their consent; yet it is the duty of Christians to marry in the + Lord; and therefore such as profess the true religion, should not marry + with infidels, or idolaters; neither should such as are godly, be unequally + yoked, by marrying with such as are wicked in their life, or maintain damnable + heresy. + verses: + - Heb.13.4 + - 1Tim.4.3 + - 1Cor.7.39 + - Neh.13.25-Neh.13.27 + - number: 4 + text: >- + Marriage ought not to be within the degrees of consanguinity or affinity, + forbidden in the Word; nor can such incestuous marriages ever be made lawful, + by any law of man or consent of parties, so as those persons may live together + as man and wife. + verses: + - Lev.18 + - Mark.6.18 + - 1Cor.5.1 + - name: Of the Church + number: 26 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + The catholic or universal church, which (with respect to the internal work + of the Spirit and truth of grace) may be called invisible, consists of the + whole number of the elect, that have been, are, or shall be gathered into + one, under Christ, the head thereof; and is the spouse, the body, the fulness + of him that filleth all in all. + verses: + - Heb.12.23 + - Col.1.18 + - Eph.1.10,Eph.1.22-Eph.1.23 + - Eph.5.23,Eph.5.27,Eph.5.32 + - number: 2 + text: >- + All persons throughout the world, professing the faith of the gospel, and + obedience unto God by Christ according unto it, not destroying their own + profession by any errors everting the foundation, or unholiness of conversation, + are and may be called visible saints; and of such ought all particular congregations + to be constituted. + verses: + - 1Cor.1.2 + - Acts.11.26 + - Rom.1.7 + - Eph.1.20-Eph.1.22 + - number: 3 + text: >- + The purest churches under heaven are subject to mixture and error; and some + have so degenerated as to become no churches of Christ, but synagogues of + Satan; nevertheless Christ always hath had, and ever shall have a kingdom + in this world, to the end thereof, of such as believe in him, and make profession + of his name. + verses: + - 1Cor.5 + - Rev.2 + - Rev.3 + - Rev.18.2 + - 2Thess.2.11-2Thess.2.12 + - Matt.16.18 + - Ps.72.17 + - Ps.102.28 + - Rev.12.17 + - number: 4 + text: >- + The Lord Jesus Christ is the Head of the church, in whom, by the appointment + of the Father, all power for the calling, institution, order or government + of the church, is invested in a supreme and sovereign manner; neither can + the Pope of Rome in any sense be head thereof, but is that antichrist, that + man of sin, and son of perdition, that exalteth himself in the church against + Christ, and all that is called God; whom the Lord shall destroy with the + brightness of his coming. + verses: + - Col.1.18 + - Matt.28.18-Matt.28.20 + - Eph.4.11-Eph.4.12 + - 2Thess.2.2-2Thess.2.9 + - number: 5 + text: >- + In the execution of this power wherewith he is so intrusted, the Lord Jesus + calleth out of the world unto himself, through the ministry of his word, + by his Spirit, those that are given unto him by his Father, that they may + walk before him in all the ways of obedience, which he prescribeth to them + in his word. Those thus called, he commandeth to walk together in particular + societies, or churches, for their mutual edification, and the due performance + of that public worship, which he requireth of them in the world. + verses: + - John.10.16 + - John.12.32 + - Matt.28.20 + - Matt.18.15-Matt.18.20 + - number: 6 + text: >- + The members of these churches are saints by calling, visibly manifesting + and evidencing (in and by their profession and walking) their obedience + unto that call of Christ; and do willingly consent to walk together, according + to the appointment of Christ; giving up themselves to the Lord, and one + to another, by the will of God, in professed subjection to the ordinances + of the Gospel. + verses: + - Rom.1.7 + - 1Cor.1.2 + - Acts.2.41-Acts.2.42 + - Acts.5.13-Acts.5.14 + - 2Cor.9.13 + - number: 7 + text: >- + To each of these churches thus gathered, according to his mind declared + in his word, he hath given all that power and authority, which is in any + way needful for their carrying on that order in worship and discipline, + which he hath instituted for them to observe; with commands and rules for + the due and right exerting, and executing of that power. + verses: + - Matt.18.17-Matt.18.18 + - 1Cor.5.4-1Cor.5.5 + - 1Cor.5.13 + - 2Cor.2.6-2Cor.2.8 + - number: 8 + text: >- + A particular church, gathered and completely organized according to the + mind of Christ, consists of officers and members; and the officers appointed + by Christ to be chosen and set apart by the church (so called and gathered), + for the peculiar administration of ordinances, and execution of power or + duty, which he intrusts them with, or calls them to, to be continued to + the end of the world, are bishops or elders, and deacons. + verses: + - Acts.20.17,Acts.20.28 + - Phil.1.1 + - number: 9 + text: >- + The way appointed by Christ for the calling of any person, fitted and gifted + by the Holy Spirit, unto the office of bishop or elder in a church, is, + that he be chosen thereunto by the common suffrage of the church itself; + and solemnly set apart by fasting and prayer, with imposition of hands of + the eldership of the church, if there be any before constituted therein; + and of a deacon that he be chosen by the like suffrage, and set apart by + prayer, and the like imposition of hands. + verses: + - Acts.14.23 + - 1Tim.4.14 + - Acts.6.3,Acts.6.5-Acts.6.6 + - number: 10 + text: >- + The work of pastors being constantly to attend the service of Christ, in + his churches, in the ministry of the word and prayer, with watching for + their souls, as they that must give an account to Him; it is incumbent on + the churches to whom they minister, not only to give them all due respect, + but also to communicate to them of all their good things according to their + ability, so as they may have a comfortable supply, without being themselves + entangled in secular affairs; and may also be capable of exercising hospitality + towards others; and this is required by the law of nature, and by the express + order of our Lord Jesus, who hath ordained that they that preach the Gospel + should live of the Gospel. + verses: + - Acts.6.4 + - Heb.13.17 + - 1Tim.5.17-1Tim.5.18 + - Gal.6.6-Gal.6.7 + - 2Tim.2.4 + - 1Tim.3.2 + - 1Cor.9.6-1Cor.9.14 + - number: 11 + text: >- + Although it be incumbent on the bishops or pastors of the churches, to be + instant in preaching the word, by way of office, yet the work of preaching + the word is not so peculiarly confined to them but that others also gifted + and fitted by the Holy Spirit for it, and approved and called by the church, + may and ought to perform it. + verses: + - Acts.11.19-Acts.11.21 + - 1Pet.4.10-1Pet.4.11 + - number: 12 + text: >- + As all believers are bound to join themselves to particular churches, when + and where they have opportunity so to do; so all that are admitted unto + the privileges of a church, are also under the censures and government thereof, + according to the rule of Christ. + verses: + - 1Thess.5.14 + - 2Thess.3.6,2Thess.3.14-2Thess.3.15 + - number: 13 + text: >- + No church members, upon any offence taken by them, having performed their + duty required of them towards the person they are offended at, ought to + disturb any church-order, or absent themselves from the assemblies of the + church, or administration of any ordinances, upon the account of such offence + at any of their fellow members, but to wait upon Christ, in the further + proceeding of the church. + verses: + - Matt.18.15-Matt.18.17 + - Eph.4.2-Eph.4.3 + - number: 14 + text: >- + As each church, and all the members of it, are bound to pray continually + for the good and prosperity of all the churches of Christ, in all places, + and upon all occasions to further every one within the bounds of their places + and callings, in the exercise of their gifts and graces, so the churches, + when planted by the providence of God, so as they may enjoy opportunity + and advantage for it, ought to hold communion among themselves, for their + peace, increase of love, and mutual edification. + verses: + - Eph.6.18 + - Ps.122.6 + - Rom.16.1-Rom.16.2 + - 3John.1.8-3John.1.10 + - number: 15 + text: >- + In cases of difficulties or differences, either in point of doctrine or + administration, wherein either the churches in general are concerned, or + any one church, in their peace, union, and edification; or any member or + members of any church are injured, in or by any proceedings in censures + not agreeable to truth and order: it is according to the mind of Christ, + that many churches holding communion together, do, by their messengers, + meet to consider, and give their advice in or about that matter in difference, + to be reported to all the churches concerned; howbeit these messengers assembled, + are not intrusted with any church-power properly so called; or with any + jurisdiction over the churches themselves, to exercise any censures either + over any churches or persons; or to impose their determination on the churches + or officers. + verses: + - Acts.15.2,Acts.15.4,Acts.15.6,Acts.15.22-Acts.15.23,Acts.15.25 + - 2Cor.1.24 + - 1John.4.1 + - name: Of the Communion of Saints + number: 27 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + All saints that are united to Jesus Christ, their head, by his Spirit, and + faith, although they are not made thereby one person with him, have fellowship + in his graces, sufferings, death, resurrection, and glory; and, being united + to one another in love, they have communion in each others gifts and graces, + and are obliged to the performance of such duties, public and private, in + an orderly way, as do conduce to their mutual good, both in the inward and + outward man. + verses: + - 1John.1.3 + - John.1.16 + - Phil.3.10 + - Rom.6.5-Rom.6.6 + - Eph.4.15-Eph.4.16 + - 1Cor.12.7 + - 1Cor.3.21-1Cor.3.23 + - 1Thess.5.11,1Thess.5.14 + - Rom.1.12 + - 1John.3.17-1John.3.18 + - Gal.6.10 + - number: 2 + text: >- + Saints by profession are bound to maintain an holy fellowship and communion + in the worship of God, and in performing such other spiritual services as + tend to their mutual edification; as also in relieving each other in outward + things according to their several abilities, and necessities; which communion, + according to the rule of the gospel, though especially to be exercised by + them, in the relation wherein they stand, whether in families, or churches, + yet, as God offereth opportunity, is to be extended to all the household + of faith, even all those who in every place call upon the name of the Lord + Jesus; nevertheless their communion one with another as saints, doth not + take away or infringe the title or propriety which each man hath in his + goods and possessions. + verses: + - Heb.10.24-Heb.10.25 + - Heb.3.12-Heb.3.13 + - Acts.11.29-Acts.11.30 + - Eph.6.4 + - 1Cor.12.14-1Cor.12.27 + - Acts.5.4 + - Eph.4.28 + - name: Of Baptism and the Lord's Supper + number: 28 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + Baptism and the Lord's Supper are ordinances of positive and sovereign institution, + appointed by the Lord Jesus, the only lawgiver, to be continued in his church + to the end of the world. + verses: + - Matt.28.19-Matt.28.20 + - 1Cor.11.26 + - number: 2 + text: >- + These holy appointments are to be administered by those only who are qualified + and thereunto called, according to the commission of Christ. + verses: + - Matt.28.19 + - 1Cor.4.1 + - name: Of Baptism + number: 29 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + Baptism is an ordinance of the New Testament, ordained by Jesus Christ, + to be unto the party baptized, a sign of his fellowship with him, in his + death and resurrection; of his being engrafted into him; of remission of + sins; and of giving up into God, through Jesus Christ, to live and walk + in newness of life. + verses: + - Rom.6.3-Rom.6.5 + - Col.2.12 + - Gal.3.27 + - Mark.1.4 + - Acts.22.16 + - Rom.6.4 + - number: 2 + text: >- + Those who do actually profess repentance towards God, faith in, and obedience + to, our Lord Jesus Christ, are the only proper subjects of this ordinance. + verses: + - Mark.16.16 + - Acts.8.36-Acts.8.37 + - Acts.2.41 + - Acts.8.12 + - Acts.18.8 + - number: 3 + text: >- + The outward element to be used in this ordinance is water, wherein the party + is to be baptized, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the + Holy Spirit. + verses: + - Matt.28.19-Matt.28.20 + - Acts.8.38 + - number: 4 + text: >- + Immersion, or dipping of the person in water, is necessary to the due administration + of this ordinance. + verses: + - Matt.3.16 + - John.3.23 + - name: Of the Lord's Supper + number: 30 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + The supper of the Lord Jesus was instituted by him the same night wherein + he was betrayed, to be observed in his churches, unto the end of the world, + for the perpetual remembrance, and shewing forth the sacrifice of himself + in his death, confirmation of the faith of believers in all the benefits + thereof, their spiritual nourishment, and growth in him, their further engagement + in, and to all duties which they owe to him; and to be a bond and pledge + of their communion with him, and with each other. + verses: + - 1Cor.11.23-1Cor.11.26 + - 1Cor.10.16-1Cor.10.17,1Cor.10.21 + - number: 2 + text: >- + In this ordinance Christ is not offered up to his Father, nor any real sacrifice + made at all for remission of sin of the quick or dead, but only a memorial + of that one offering up of himself by himself upon the cross, once for all; + and a spiritual oblation of all possible praise unto God for the same. So + that the popish sacrifice of the mass, as they call it, is most abominable, + injurious to Christ's own sacrifice the alone propitiation for all the sins + of the elect. + verses: + - Heb.9.25-Heb.9.26,Heb.9.28 + - 1Cor.11.24 + - Matt.26.26-Matt.26.27 + - number: 3 + text: >- + The Lord Jesus hath, in this ordinance, appointed his ministers to pray, + and bless the elements of bread and wine, and thereby to set them apart + from a common to a holy use, and to take and break the bread; to take the + cup, and, they communicating also themselves, to give both to the communicants. + verses: + - 1Cor.11.23-1Cor.11.26 + - number: 4 + text: >- + The denial of the cup to the people, worshipping the elements, the lifting + them up, or carrying them about for adoration, and reserving them for any + pretended religious use, are all contrary to the nature of this ordinance, + and to the institution of Christ. + verses: + - Matt.26.26-Matt.26.28 + - Matt.15.9 + - Exod.20.4-Exod.20.5 + - number: 5 + text: >- + The outward elements in this ordinance, duly set apart to the use ordained + by Christ, have such relation to him crucified, as that truly, although + in terms used figuratively, they are sometimes called by the names of the + things they represent, to wit, the body and blood of Christ, albeit, in + substance and nature, they still remain truly and only bread and wine, as + they were before. + verses: + - 1Cor.11.27 + - 1Cor.11.26-1Cor.11.28 + - number: 6 + text: >- + That doctrine which maintains a change of the substance of bread and wine, + into the substance of Christ's body and blood, commonly called transubstantiation, + by consecration of a priest, or by any other way, is repugnant not to Scripture + alone, but even to common sense and reason, overthroweth the nature of the + ordinance, and hath been, and is, the cause of manifold superstitions, yea, + of gross idolatries. + verses: + - Acts.3.21 + - Luke.14.6 + - 1Cor.11.24-1Cor.11.25 + - number: 7 + text: >- + Worthy receivers, outwardly partaking of the visible elements in this ordinance, + do then also inwardly by faith, really and indeed, yet not carnally and + corporally, but spiritually receive, and feed upon Christ crucified, and + all the benefits of his death; the body and blood of Christ being then not + corporally or carnally, but spiritually present to the faith of believers + in that ordinance, as the elements themselves are to their outward senses. + verses: + - 1Cor.10.16 + - 1Cor.11.23-1Cor.11.26 + - number: 8 + text: >- + All ignorant and ungodly persons, as they are unfit to enjoy communion with + Christ, so are they unworthy of the Lord's table, and cannot, without great + sin against him, while they remain such, partake of these holy mysteries, + or be admitted thereunto; yea, whosoever shall receive unworthily, are guilty + of the body and blood of the Lord, eating and drinking judgment to themselves. + verses: + - 2Cor.6.14-2Cor.6.15 + - 1Cor.11.29 + - Matt.7.6 + - name: Of the State of Man after Death and Of the Resurrection of the Dead + number: 31 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + The bodies of men after death return to dust, and see corruption; but their + souls, which neither die nor sleep, having an immortal subsistence, immediately + return to God who gave them. The souls of the righteous being then made + perfect in holiness, are received into paradise, where they are with Christ, + and behold the face of God in light and glory, waiting for the full redemption + of their bodies; and the souls of the wicked are cast into hell; where they + remain in torment and utter darkness, reserved to the judgment of the great + day; besides these two places, for souls separated from their bodies, the + Scripture acknowledgeth none. + verses: + - Gen.3.19 + - Acts.13.36 + - Eccl.12.7 + - Luke.23.43 + - 2Cor.5.1,2Cor.5.6,2Cor.5.8 + - Phil.1.23 + - Heb.12.23 + - Jude.1.6-Jude.1.7 + - 1Pet.3.19 + - Luke.16.23-Luke.16.24 + - number: 2 + text: >- + At the last day, such of the saints as are found alive, shall not sleep, + but be changed; and all the dead shall be raised up with the selfsame bodies, + and none other; although with different qualities, which shall be united + again to their souls forever. + verses: + - 1Cor.15.51-1Cor.15.52 + - 1Thess.4.17 + - Job.19.26-Job.19.27 + - 1Cor.15.42-1Cor.15.43 + - number: 3 + text: >- + The bodies of the unjust shall, by the power of Christ, be raised to dishonour; + the bodies of the just, by his Spirit, unto honour, and be made conformable + to his own glorious body. + verses: + - Acts.24.15 + - John.5.28-John.5.29 + - Phil.3.21 + - name: Of the Last Judgment + number: 32 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: >- + God hath appointed a day wherein he will judge the world in righteousness, + by Jesus Christ; to whom all power and judgment is given of the Father; + in which day, not only the apostate angels shall be judged, but likewise + all persons that have lived upon the earth shall appear before the tribunal + of Christ, to give an account of their thoughts, words, and deeds, and to + receive according to what they have done in the body, whether good or evil. + verses: + - Acts.17.31 + - John.5.22,John.5.27 + - 1Cor.6.3 + - Jude.1.6 + - 2Cor.5.10 + - Eccl.12.14 + - Matt.12.36 + - Rom.14.10,Rom.14.12 + - Matt.25.32-Matt.25.46 + - number: 2 + text: >- + The end of God's appointing this day, is for the manifestation of the glory + of his mercy, in the eternal salvation of the elect; and of his justice, + in the eternal damnation of the reprobate, who are wicked and disobedient; + for then shall the righteous go into everlasting life, and receive that + fulness of joy and glory with everlasting rewards, in the presence of the + Lord; but the wicked, who know not God, and obey not the gospel of Jesus + Christ, shall be cast aside into everlasting torments, and punished with + everlasting destruction, from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory + of his power. + verses: + - Rom.9.22-Rom.9.23 + - Matt.25.21,Matt.25.34 + - 2Tim.4.8 + - Matt.25.46 + - Mark.9.48 + - 2Thess.1.7-2Thess.1.10 + - number: 3 + text: >- + As Christ would have us to be certainly persuaded that there shall be a + day of judgment, both to deter all men from sin, and for the greater consolation + of the godly in their adversity, so will he have the day unknown to men, + that they may shake off all carnal security, and be always watchful, because + they know not at what hour the Lord will come, and may ever be prepared + to say, Come Lord Jesus; come quickly . Amen. + verses: + - 2Cor.5.10-2Cor.5.11 + - 2Thess.1.5-2Thess.1.7 + - Mark.13.35-Mark.13.37 + - Luke.12.35-Luke.12.40 + - Rev.22.20 +... diff --git a/data/second-london/1858-abstract-of-principles.yaml b/data/second-london/1858-abstract-of-principles.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..e42be5d6c7e3314c00eea1d6f59ff705a492348d --- /dev/null +++ b/data/second-london/1858-abstract-of-principles.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,170 @@ +--- +name: Abstract of Principles of 1858 +publication_year: 1858 +type: confession +chapters: + - name: The Scriptures + number: 1 + text: >- + The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments were given by inspiration + of God, and are the only sufficient, certain and authoritative rule of + all saving knowledge, faith and obedience. + - name: God + number: 2 + text: >- + There is but one God, the Maker, Preserver and Ruler of all things, + having in and of Himself, all perfections, and being infinite in them + all; and to Him all creatures owe the highest love, reverence and + obedience. + - name: The Trinity + number: 3 + text: >- + God is revealed to us as Father, Son and Holy Spirit each with + distinct personal attributes, but without division of nature, essence + or being. + - name: Providence + number: 4 + text: >- + God from eternity, decrees or permits all things that come to pass, + and perpetually upholds, directs and governs all creatures and all + events; yet so as not in any wise to be the author or approver of sin + nor to destroy the free will and responsibility of intelligent + creatures. + - name: Election + number: 5 + text: >- + Election is God's eternal choice of some persons unto everlasting + life-not because of foreseen merit in them, but of His mere mercy in + Christ-in consequence of which choice they are called, justified and + glorified. + - name: The Fall of Man + number: 6 + text: >- + God originally created Man in His own image, and free from sin; but, + through the temptation of Satan, he transgressed the command of God, + and fell from his original holiness and righteousness; whereby his + posterity inherit a nature corrupt and wholly opposed to God and His + law, are under condemnation, and as soon as they are capable of moral + action, become actual transgressors. + - name: The Mediator + number: 7 + text: >- + Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God, is the divinely appointed + mediator between God and man. Having taken upon Himself human nature, + yet without sin, He perfectly fulfilled the law; suffered and died + upon the cross for the salvation of sinners. He was buried, and rose + again the third day, and ascended to His Father, at whose right hand + He ever liveth to make intercession for His people. He is the only + Mediator, the Prophet, Priest and King of the Church, and Sovereign of + the Universe. + - name: Regeneration + number: 8 + text: >- + Regeneration is a change of heart, wrought by the Holy Spirit, who + quickeneth the dead in trespasses and sins enlightening their minds + spiritually and savingly to understand the Word of God, and renewing + their whole nature, so that they love and practice holiness. It is a + work of God's free and special grace alone. + - name: Repentance + number: 9 + text: >- + Repentance is an evangelical grace, wherein a person being by the Holy + Spirit, made sensible of the manifold evil of his sin, humbleth + himself for it, with godly sorrow, detestation of it, and self- + abhorrence, with a purpose and endeavor to walk before God so as to + please Him in all things. + - name: Faith + number: 10 + text: >- + Saving faith is the belief, on God's authority, of whatsoever is + revealed in His Word concerning Christ; accepting and resting upon Him + alone for justification and eternal life. It is wrought in the heart + by the Holy Spirit, and is accompanied by all other saving graces, and + leads to a life of holiness. + - name: Justification + number: 11 + text: >- + Justification is God's gracious and full acquittal of sinners, who + believe in Christ, from all sin, through the satisfaction that Christ + has made; not for anything wrought in them or done by them; but on + account of the obedience and satisfaction of Christ, they receiving + and resting on Him and His righteousness by faith. + - name: Sanctification + number: 12 + text: >- + Those who have been regenerated are also sanctified by God's word and + Spirit dwelling in them. This sanctification is progressive through + the supply of Divine strength, which all saints seek to obtain, + pressing after a heavenly life in cordial obedience to all Christ's + commands. + - name: Perseverance of the Saints + number: 13 + text: >- + Those whom God hath accepted in the Beloved, and sanctified by His + Spirit, will never totally nor finally fall away from the state of + grace, but shall certainly persevere to the end; and though they may + fall through neglect and temptation, into sin, whereby they grieve the + Spirit, impair their graces and comforts, bring reproach on the + Church, and temporal judgments on themselves, yet they shall be + renewed again unto repentance, and be kept by the power of God through + faith unto salvation. + - name: The Church + number: 14 + text: >- + The Lord Jesus is the head of the Church, which is composed of all His + true disciples, and in Him is invested supremely all power for its + government. According to His commandment, Christians are to associate + themselves into particular societies or churches; and to each of these + churches He hath given needful authority for administering that order, + discipline and worship which He hath appointed. The regular officers + of a Church are Bishops or Elders, and Deacons. + - name: Baptism + number: 15 + text: >- + Baptism is an ordinance of the Lord Jesus, obligatory upon every + believer, wherein he is immersed in water in the name of the Father, + and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, as a sign of his fellowship + with the death and resurrection of Christ, of remission of sins, and + of giving himself up to God, to live and walk in newness of life. It + is prerequisite to church fellowship, and to participation in the + Lord's Supper. + - name: The Lord's Supper + number: 16 + text: >- + The Lord's Supper is an ordinance of Jesus Christ, to be administered + with the elements of bread and wine, and to be observed by His + churches till the end of the world. It is in no sense a sacrifice, but + is designed to commemorate His death, to confirm the faith and other + graces of Christians, and to be a bond, pledge and renewal of their + communion with Him, and of their church fellowship. + - name: The Lord's Day + number: 17 + text: >- + The Lord's Day is a Christian institution for regular observance, and + should be employed in exercises of worship and spiritual devotion, + both public and private, resting from worldly employments and + amusements, works of necessity and mercy only excepted. + - name: Liberty of Conscience + number: 18 + text: >- + God alone is Lord of the conscience; and He hath left it free from the + doctrines and commandments of men, which are in anything contrary to + His word, or not contained in it. Civil magistrates being ordained of + God, subjection in all lawful things commanded by them ought to be + yielded by us in the Lord, not only for wrath, but also for conscience + sake. + - name: The Resurrection + number: 19 + text: >- + The bodies of men after death return to dust, but their spirits return + immediately to God-the righteous to rest with Him; the wicked, to be + reserved under darkness to the judgment. At the last day, the bodies + of all the dead, both just and unjust, will be raised. + - name: The Judgment + number: 20 + text: >- + God hath appointed a day, wherein He will judge the world by Jesus + Christ, when every one shall receive according to his deeds; the + wicked shall go into everlasting punishment; the righteous, into + everlasting life. +... diff --git a/data/second-london/keach.yaml b/data/second-london/keach.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..6121a2869fc8a7c0fc2dcaccbb2c2841278ecd16 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/second-london/keach.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,1300 @@ +--- +name: Keach's Catechism +publication_year: 1689 +image: keach.jpg +type: catechism +questions: + - question: Who is the first and best of beings? + number: 1 + answer: >- + God is the first and best of beings. + verses: + - Isa.44.6 + - Ps.8.1 + - Ps.97.9 + - question: What is the chief end of man? + number: 2 + answer: >- + Man's chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever. + verses: + - 1Cor.10.31 + - Ps.73.25-Ps.73.26 + - question: How do we know there is a God? + number: 3 + answer: >- + The light of nature in man, and the works of God, plainly declare that + there is a God; but His Word and Spirit only, do effectually reveal + Him unto us for our salvation. + verses: + - Rom.1.18-Rom.1.20 + - Ps.19.1-Ps.19.2 + - 2Tim.3.15 + - 1Cor.1.21-1Cor.1.24 + - 1Cor.2.9-1Cor.2.10 + - question: What is the Word of God? + number: 4 + answer: >- + The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, being given by divine + inspiration, are the Word of God, the only infallible rule of faith + and practice. + verses: + - 2Pet.1.21 + - 2Tim.3.16-2Tim.3.17 + - Isa.8.20 + - question: How do we know that the Bible is the Word of God? + number: 5 + answer: >- + The Bible evidences itself to be God's Word by the heavenliness of its + doctrine, the unity of its parts, its power to convert sinners and to + edify saints; but the Spirit of God only, bearing witness by and with + the Scriptures in our hearts, is able fully to persuade us that the + Bible is the Word of God. + verses: + - 1Cor.2.6-1Cor.2.7 + - 1Cor.2.13 + - Ps.119.18 + - Ps.119.129 + - Acts.10.43 + - Acts.26.22 + - Acts.18.28 + - Heb.4.12 + - Ps.19.7-Ps.19.9 + - Rom.15.4 + - John.16.13-John.16.14 + - 1John.2.20-1John.2.27 + - 2Cor.3.14-2Cor.3.17 + - question: May all men make use of the Scriptures? + number: 6 + answer: >- + All men are not only permitted, but commanded and exhorted, to read, + hear, and understand the Scriptures. + verses: + - John.5.39 + - Luke.16.29 + - Acts.8.28-Acts.8.30 + - Acts.17.11 + - question: What do the Scriptures principally teach? + number: 7 + answer: >- + The Scriptures principally teach what man is to believe concerning God + and what duty God requires of man. + verses: + - 2Tim.3.16-2Tim.3.17 + - John.20.31 + - Acts.24.14 + - 1Cor.10.11 + - Eccl.12.13 + - question: What is God? + number: 8 + answer: >- + God is a Spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable in His being, + wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness and truth. + verses: + - John.4.24 + - Ps.147.5 + - Ps.90.2 + - Jas.1.17 + - Rev.4.8 + - Ps.89.14 + - Exod.34.6-Exod.34.7 + - 1Tim.1.17 + - question: Are there more gods than one? + number: 9 + answer: >- + There is but one only, the living and true God. + verses: + - Deut.6.4 + - Jer.10.10 + - question: How many persons are there in the Godhead? + number: 10 + answer: >- + There are three persons in the Godhead, the Father, the Son, and the + Holy Spirit; and these three are one God, the same in essence, equal + in power and glory. + verses: + - 1Cor.8.6 + - John.10.30 + - John.14.9 + - Acts.5.3-Acts.5.4 + - Matt.28.19 + - 2Cor.13.14 + - question: What are the decrees of God? + number: 11 + answer: >- + The decrees of God are His eternal purpose, according to the counsel + of His will, whereby for His own glory, He has fore-ordained + whatsoever comes to pass + verses: + - Eph.1.11 + - Rom.11.36 + - Dan.4.35 + - question: How does God execute His decrees? + number: 12 + answer: >- + God executes His decrees in the works of creation and providence. + verses: + - Gen.1.1 + - Rev.4.11 + - Matt.6.26 + - Acts.14.17 + - question: What is the work of creation? + number: 13 + answer: >- + The work of creation is God's making all things of nothing, by the + Word of His power, in the space of six days, and all very good. + verses: + - Gen.1.1 + - Heb.11.3 + - Exod.20.11 + - Gen.1.31 + - question: How did God create man? + number: 14 + answer: >- + God created man male and female, after His own image, in knowledge, + righteousness, and holiness, with dominion over the creatures. + verses: + - Gen.1.27 + - Col.3.10 + - Eph.4.24 + - Gen.1.28 + - question: What are God's works of providence? + number: 15 + answer: >- + God's works of providence are His most holy, wise, and powerful + preserving and governing all His creatures, and all their actions. + verses: + - Neh.9.6 + - Col.1.17 + - Heb.1.3 + - Ps.103.19 + - Matt.10.29-Matt.10.30 + - question: What special act of providence did God exercise towards man, in the estate wherein he was created? + number: 16 + answer: >- + When God had created man, He entered into a covenant of works with + him, upon condition of perfect obedience, forbidding him to eat of the + tree of the knowledge of good and evil, upon pain of death. + verses: + - Gen.2.16-Gen.2.17 + - Gal.3.12 + - Rom.5.12 + - question: Did our first parents continue in the estate wherein they were created? + number: 17 + answer: >- + Our first parents, being left to the freedom of their own will, fell + from the estate wherein they were created, by sinning against God. + verses: + - Gen.3.6 + - Eccl.7.29 + - Rom.5.12 + - question: What is sin? + number: 18 + answer: >- + Sin is any want of conformity unto, or transgression of, the law of + God. + verses: + - 1John.3.4 + - Rom.5.13 + - question: What was the sin whereby our first parents fell from the estate wherein they were created? + number: 19 + answer: >- + The sin whereby our first parents fell from the estate wherein they + were created, was their eating the forbidden fruit. + verses: + - Gen.3.6 + - Gen.3.12-Gen.3.13 + - question: Did all mankind fall in Adam's first transgression? + number: 20 + answer: >- + The covenant being made with Adam, not only for himself but for his + posterity, all mankind, descending from him by ordinary generation, + sinned in him, and fell with him in his first transgression. + verses: + - 1Cor.15.21-1Cor.15.22 + - Rom.5.12 + - Rom.5.18-Rom.5.19 + - question: Into what estate did the fall bring mankind? + number: 21 + answer: >- + The fall brought mankind into an estate of sin and misery. + verses: + - Ps.51.5 + - Rom.5.18-Rom.5.19 + - Isa.64.6 + - question: Wherein consists the sinfulness of that estate whereunto man fell? + number: 22 + answer: >- + The sinfulness of that estate whereunto man fell, consists in the + guilt of Adam's first sin, the want of original righteousness, and the + corruption of his whole nature, which is commonly called original sin, + together with all actual transgressions which proceed from it. + verses: + - Rom.5.19 + - Rom.3.10 + - Eph.2.1 + - Isa.53.6 + - Ps.51.5 + - Matt.15.19 + - question: What is the misery of that estate whereunto man fell? + number: 23 + answer: >- + All mankind, by their fall lost communion with God, are under His + wrath and curse, and 80 made liable to all the miseries of this life, + to death itself, and to the pains of hell forever. + verses: + - Gen.3.8 + - Gen.3.24 + - Eph.2.3 + - Gal.3.10 + - Rom.6.23 + - Matt.25.41-Matt.25.46 + - Ps.9.17 + - question: Did God leave all mankind to perish in the estate of sin and misery? + number: 24 + answer: >- + God, out of His mere good pleasure, from all eternity, having chosen a + people to everlasting life, did enter into a covenant of grace, to + deliver them out of the estate of sin and misery, and to bring them + into an estate of salvation, by a Redeemer. + verses: + - Eph.1.3-Eph.1.4 + - 2Thess.2.13 + - Rom.5.21 + - Acts.13.8 + - Jer.31.33 + - question: Who is the Redeemer of God's elect? + number: 25 + answer: >- + The only Redeemer of God's elect is the Lord Jesus Christ, who, being + the eternal Son of God, became man, and so was and continues to be God + and man, in two distinct natures and one person, forever. + verses: + - Gal.3.13 + - 1Tim.2.5 + - John.1.14 + - 1Tim.3.16 + - Rom.9.5 + - Col.2.9 + - question: How did Christ, being the Son of God, become man? + number: 26 + answer: >- + Christ, the Son of God became man by taking to himself a true body and + a reasonable soul; being conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit in + the womb of the Virgin Mary and born of her, yet without sin. + verses: + - Heb.2.14 + - Matt.26.38 + - Luke.2.52 + - John.12.27 + - Luke.1.31 + - Luke.1.35 + - Heb.4.15 + - Heb.7.26 + - question: What offices does Christ execute as our Redeemer? + number: 27 + answer: >- + Christ, as our Redeemer, executes the offices of a prophet, of a + priest, and of a king, both in His estate of humiliation and + exaltation. + verses: + - Acts.3.22 + - Heb.5.6 + - Ps.2.6 + - question: How does Christ execute the office of a prophet? + number: 28 + answer: >- + Christ executes the office of a prophet, in revealing to us, by this + Word and Spirit, the will of God for our salvation. + verses: + - John.1.18 + - John.14.26 + - John.15.15 + - question: How does Christ execute the office of a priest? + number: 29 + answer: >- + Christ executes the office of a priest, in His once offering up of + Himself, a sacrifice to satisfy divine justice, and reconcile us to + God, and in making continual intercession for us. + verses: + - 1Pet.2.24 + - Heb.9.28 + - Eph.5.2 + - Heb.2.17 + - Heb.7.25 + - Rom.8.34 + - question: How does Christ execute the office of a king? + number: 30 + answer: >- + Christ executes the office of a king, in subduing us to Himself, in + ruling and defending us, and in restraining and conquering all His and + our enemies. + verses: + - Ps.110.3 + - Matt.2.6 + - 1Cor.15.25 + - question: Wherein did Christ's humiliation consist? + number: 31 + answer: >- + Christ's humiliation consisted in His being born, and that in a low + condition, made under the law, undergoing the miseries of this life, + the wrath of God, and the cursed death of the cross, in being buried, + and continuing under the power of death for a time. + verses: + - Luke.2.7 + - Gal.4.4 + - Isa.53.3 + - Luke.22.44 + - Matt.27.46 + - Phil.2.8 + - Matt.12.40 + - Mark.15.45-Mark.15.46 + - question: Wherein consists Christ's exaltation? + number: 32 + answer: >- + Christ's exaltation consists in His rising again from the dead on the + third day, in ascending up into heaven, in sitting at the right hand + of God the Father, and in coming to judge the world at the last day. + verses: + - 1Cor.15.4 + - Acts.1.11 + - Mark.16.19 + - Acts.17.31 + - question: How are we made partakers of the redemption purchased by Christ? + number: 33 + answer: >- + We are made partakers of the redemption purchased by Christ, by the + effectual application of it to us, by His Holy Spirit. + verses: + - John.3.5-John.3.6 + - Titus.3.5-Titus.3.6 + - question: How does the Spirit apply to us the redemption purchased by Christ? + number: 34 + answer: >- + The Spirit applies to us the redemption purchased by Christ, by + working faith in us, and thereby uniting us to Christ in our effectual + calling. + verses: + - Eph.2.8 + - Eph.3.17 + - question: What is effectual calling? + number: 35 + answer: >- + Effectual calling is the work of God's Spirit, whereby, convincing us + of our sin and misery, enlightening our minds in the knowledge of + Christ, and renewing our wills, He does persuade and enable us to + embrace Jesus Christ, freely offered to us in the Gospel. + verses: + - 2Tim.1.9 + - John.16.8-John.16.11 + - Acts.2.37 + - Acts.26.18 + - Ezek.36.26 + - John.6.44-John.6.45 + - 1Cor.12.3 + - question: What benefits do they that are effectually called, partake of in this life? + number: 36 + answer: >- + They that are effectually called, do in this life partake of + justification, adoption, sanctification, and the several benefits + which in this life do either accompany or flow from them. + verses: + - Rom.8.30 + - Gal.3.26 + - 1Cor.6.11 + - Rom.8.31-Rom.8.32 + - Eph.1.5 + - 1Cor.1.30 + - question: What is justification? + number: 37 + answer: >- + Justification is an act of God's free grace, wherein He pardons all + our sins, and accepts us as righteous in His sight, only for the + righteousness of Christ imputed to us, and received by faith alone. + verses: + - Rom.3.24 + - Eph.1.7 + - 2Cor.5.21 + - Rom.5.19 + - Phil.3.9 + - Gal.2.16 + - question: What is adoption? + number: 38 + answer: >- + Adoption is an act of God's free grace, whereby we are received into + the number, and have a right to all the privileges of the sons of God. + verses: + - 1John.3.1 + - John.1.12 + - Rom.8.16-Rom.8.17 + - question: What is sanctification? + number: 39 + answer: >- + Sanctification is a work of God's free grace whereby we are renewed in + the whole man after the image of God, and are enabled more and more to + die unto sin, and live unto righteousness. + verses: + - 2Thess.2.13 + - Eph.4.23-Eph.4.24 + - Rom.6.11 + - question: >- + What are the benefits which in this life do accompany or flow from + justification, adoption, and sanctification? + number: 40 + answer: >- + The benefits which in this life do accompany or flow from + justification, adoption, and sanctification, are, assurance of God's + love, peace of conscience, joy in the Holy Spirit, increase of grace, + and perseverance therein to the end. + verses: + - Rom.5.1-Rom.5.5 + - Rom.14.17 + - Prov.4.18 + - 1Pet.1.5 + - 1John.5.13 + - question: What benefits do believers receive from Christ at death? + number: 41 + answer: >- + The souls of believers are at death made perfect in holiness, and do + immediately pass into glory, and their bodies, being still united to + Christ, do rest in their graves till the resurrection. + verses: + - Heb.12.23 + - Phil.1.23 + - 2Cor.5.8 + - Luke.23.43 + - 1Thess.4.14 + - Isa.57.2 + - Job.19.26 + - question: What benefits do believers receive from Christ at the Resurrection? + number: 42 + answer: >- + At the resurrection, believers become raised up in glory, shall be + openly acknowledged and acquitted in the day of judgment, and made + perfectly blessed in the full enjoyment of God to all eternity. + verses: + - Phil.3.20-Phil.3.21 + - 1Cor.15.42-1Cor.15.43 + - Matt.10.32 + - 1John.3.2 + - 1Thess.4.17 + - question: What shall be done to the wicked at death? + number: 43 + answer: >- + The souls of the wicked shall at death, be cast into the torments of + hell, and their bodies lie in their graves till the resurrection and + judgement of the great day. + verses: + - Luke.16.22-Luke.16.24 + - Ps.49.14 + - question: What shall be done to the wicked at the day of judgement? + number: 44 + answer: >- + At the day of judgement, the bodies of the wicked, being raised out of + their graves, shall be sentenced, together with their souls, to + unspeakable torments with the devil and his angels forever. + verses: + - Dan.12.2 + - John.5.28-John.5.29 + - 2Thess.1.9 + - Matt.25.41 + - question: What is the duty which God requires of man? + number: 45 + answer: >- + The duty which God requires of man, is obedience to His revealed will. + verses: + - Mic.6.8 + - Eccl.12.13 + - Ps.119.4 + - Luke.10.26-Luke.10.28 + - question: What did God at first reveal to man for the rule of his obedience? + number: 46 + answer: >- + The rule which God at first revealed to man for his obedience was the + moral law. + verses: + - Rom.2.14-Rom.2.15 + - Rom.5.13-Rom.5.14 + - question: Where is the moral law summarily comprehended? + number: 47 + answer: >- + The moral law is summarily comprehended in the Ten Commandments. + verses: + - Deut.10.4 + - Matt.19.17 + - question: What is the sum of the Ten Commandments? + number: 48 + answer: >- + The sum of the Ten Commandments is, to love the Lord our God, with all + our heart, with all our soul, with all our strength, and with all our + mind; and our neighbor as ourselves. + verses: + - Matt.22.36-Matt.22.40 + - Mark.12.28-Mark.12.33 + - question: What is the preface to the Ten Commandments? + number: 49 + answer: >- + The preface to the Ten Commandments is, "I am the Lord thy God, which + have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of + bondage." + verses: + - Exod.20.2 + - question: What does the preface to the Ten Commandments teach us? + number: 50 + answer: >- + The preface to the Ten Commandments teaches us, that because God is + the Lord, and our God and Redeemer, therefore we are bound to keep all + His commandments. + verses: + - Deut.11.1 + - question: Which is the first commandment? + number: 51 + answer: >- + The first commandment is, "Thou shalt have no other Gods before me." + verses: + - Exod.20.3 + - question: What is required in the first commandment? + number: 52 + answer: >- + The first commandment requires us to know and acknowledge God to be + the only true God, and our God, and to worship and glorify Him + accordingly. + verses: + - Josh.24.15 + - 1Chr.28.9 + - Deut.26.17 + - Ps.29.2 + - Matt.4.10 + - question: What is forbidden in the first commandment? + number: 53 + answer: >- + The first commandment forbids the denying, or not worshipping and + glorifying the true God, as God and our God; and the giving that + worship and glory to any other, which is due unto Him alone. + verses: + - Josh.24.27 + - Rom.1.20-Rom.1.21 + - Ps.14.1 + - Rom.1.25 + - question: What are we especially taught by these words, "before me," in the first commandment? + number: 54 + answer: >- + These words, "before me", in the first commandment, teach us, that + God, who sees all things, takes notice of, and is much displeased with + the sin of having any other God. + verses: + - Deut.30.17-Deut.30.18 + - Ps.44.20-Ps.44.21 + - Ps.90.8 + - question: Which is the second commandment? + number: 55 + answer: >- + The second commandment is, "Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven + image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that + is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. Thou + shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them; for I the Lord thy + God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the + children, unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me: + and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me and keep my + commandments." + verses: + - Exod.20.4-Exod.20.6 + - question: What is required in the second commandment? + number: 56 + answer: >- + The second commandment requires the receiving, observing, and keeping + pure and entire, all such religious worship and ordinances, as God has + appointed in His Word. + verses: + - Deut.32.46 + - Matt.28.20 + - Deut.12.32 + - question: What is forbidden in the second commandment? + number: 57 + answer: >- + The second commandment forbids the worshipping of God by images, or + any other way not appointed in His Word. + verses: + - Rom.1.22-Rom.1.23 + - Deut.4.15-Deut.4.16 + - Matt.15.9 + - Col.2.18 + - question: What are the reasons annexed to the second commandment? + number: 58 + answer: >- + The reasons annexed to the second commandment, are, God's sovereignty + over us, His propriety in us, and the zeal He has for His own worship. + verses: + - Ps.45.11 + - Exod.34.14 + - 1Cor.10.22 + - question: Which is the third commandment? + number: 59 + answer: >- + The third commandment is, "Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord + thy God in vain: for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh + his name in vain." + verses: + - Exod.20.7 + - question: What is required in the third commandment? + number: 60 + answer: >- + The third commandment requires the holy and reverent use of God's + names, titles, attributes, ordinances, words, and works. + verses: + - Ps.29.2 + - Deut.32.1-Deut.32.4 + - Deut.28.58-Deut.28.59 + - Ps.111.9 + - Matt.6.9 + - Eccl.5.1 + - Ps.138.2 + - Job.36.24 + - Rev.15.3-Rev.15.4 + - question: What is forbidden in the third commandment? + number: 61 + answer: >- + The third commandment forbids all profaning and abusing of any thing + whereby God makes Himself known. + verses: + - Mal.1.6-Mal.1.7 + - Lev.20.3 + - Lev.19.12 + - Matt.5.34-Matt.5.37 + - Isa.52.5 + - question: What is the reason annexed to the third commandment? + number: 62 + answer: >- + The reason annexed to the third commandment is, that howsoever the + breakers of this commandment may escape punishment from men, yet the + Lord our God will not suffer them to escape His righteous judgment. + verses: + - Deut.28.58-Deut.28.59 + - Mal.2.2 + - question: Which is the fourth commandment? + number: 63 + answer: >- + The fourth commandment is, "Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy. + Six days shalt thou labor and do all thy work; but the seventh day is + the Sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, + thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maid + servant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: + for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that + in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the + Sabbath day and hallowed it." + verses: + - Exod.20.8-Exod.20.11 + - question: What is required in the fourth commandment? + number: 64 + answer: >- + The fourth commandment requires the keeping holy to God such set times + as He has appointed in His Word, expressly one whole day in seven to + be a holy Sabbath to Himself. + verses: + - Lev.19.30 + - Deut.5.12 + - question: Which day of the seven has God appointed to be the weekly Sabbath? + number: 65 + answer: >- + From the creation of the world to the resurrection of Christ, God + appointed the seventh day of the week to be the weekly Sabbath; and + the first day of the week ever since, to continue to the end of the + world, which is the Christian Sabbath. + verses: + - Gen.2.3 + - John.20.19 + - Acts.20.7 + - 1Cor.16.1-1Cor.16.2 + - Rev.1.10 + - question: How is the Sabbath to be sanctified? + number: 66 + answer: >- + The Sabbath is to sanctified by a holy resting all that day, even from + such worldly employments and recreations as are lawful on other days, + and spending the time in the public and private exercises of God's + worship, except so much as is to be taken up in the works of necessity + and mercy. + verses: + - Lev.23.3 + - Isa.58.13-Isa.58.14 + - Isa.66.23 + - Matt.12.11-Matt.12.12 + - question: What is forbidden in the fourth commandment? + number: 67 + answer: >- + The fourth commandment forbids the ommission or careless performance + of the duties required, and the profaning the day by idleness, or + doing that which is in itself sinful, or by unnecessary thoughts, + words, or works, about worldly employments or recreations. + verses: + - Ezek.22.26 + - Ezek.23.38 + - Jer.17.21 + - Neh.13.15 + - Neh.13.17 + - Acts.20.7 + - question: What are the reasons annexed to the fourth commandment? + number: 68 + answer: >- + The reasons annexed to the fourth commandment are, God's allowing us + six days of the week for our own employments, His challenging a + special propriety in the seventh, His own example and His blessing the + Sabbath day. + verses: + - Exod.34.21 + - Exod.31.16-Exod.31.17 + - Gen.2.2-Gen.2.3 + - question: Which is the fifth commandment? + number: 69 + answer: >- + The fifth commandment is, "Honor thy father and thy mother, that thy + days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee." + verses: + - Exod.20.12 + - question: What is required in the fifth commandment? + number: 70 + answer: >- + The fifth commandment requires the preserving the honor, and + performing the duties, belonging to every one in their several places + and relations, as superiors, inferiors, or equals. + verses: + - Lev.19.32 + - 1Pet.2.17 + - Rom.13.1 + - Eph.5.21-Eph.5.22 + - Eph.6.1 + - Eph.6.5 + - Eph.6.9 + - Col.3.19-Col.3.22 + - Rom.12.10 + - question: What is forbidden in the fifth commandment? + number: 71 + answer: >- + The fifth commandment forbids the neglecting of, or doing anything + against the honor and duty which belongs to every one in their several + places and relations. + verses: + - Prov.30.17 + - Rom.13.7-Rom.13.8 + - question: What is the reason annexed to the fifth commandment? + number: 72 + answer: >- + The reason annexed to the fifth commandment is a promise of long life + and prosperity (as far as it shall serve God's glory and their own + good), to all such as keep this commandment. + verses: + - Eph.6.2-Eph.6.3 + - Prov.4.3-Prov.4.6 + - Prov.6.20-Prov.6.22 + - question: Which is the sixth commandment? + number: 73 + answer: >- + The sixth commandment is, "Thou shalt not kill." + verses: + - Exod.20.13 + - question: What is required in the sixth commandment? + number: 74 + answer: >- + The sixth commandment requires all lawful endeavors to preserve our + own life and the life of others. + verses: + - Eph.5.29-Eph.5.30 + - Ps.82.3-Ps.82.4 + - Prov.24.11-Prov.24.12 + - Acts.16.28 + - question: What is forbidden in the sixth commandment? + number: 75 + answer: >- + The sixth commandment forbids the taking away our own life, or the + life of our neighbor unjustly, or whatsoever tends thereto. + verses: + - Gen.4.10-Gen.4.11 + - Gen.9.6 + - Matt.5.21-Matt.5.26 + - question: Which is the seventh commandment? + number: 76 + answer: >- + The seventh commandment is, "Thou shalt not commit adultery." + verses: + - Exod.20.14 + - question: What is required in the seventh commandment? + number: 77 + answer: >- + The seventh commandment requires the preservation of our own and our + neighbor's chastity, in heart, speech, and behavior. + verses: + - 1Cor.6.18 + - 1Cor.7.2 + - 2Tim.2.22 + - Matt.5.28 + - 1Pet.3.2 + - question: What is forbidden in the seventh commandment? + number: 78 + answer: >- + The seventh commandment forbids all unchaste thoughts, words, and + actions. + verses: + - Matt.5.28-Matt.5.32 + - Job.31.1 + - Eph.5.3-Eph.5.4 + - Rom.13.13 + - Col.4.6 + - question: Which is the eighth commandment? + number: 79 + answer: >- + The eighth commandment is, "Thou shalt not steal." + verses: + - Exod.20.15 + - question: What is required in the eighth commandment? + number: 80 + answer: >- + The eighth commandment requires the lawful procuring and furthering + the wealth and outward state of ourselves and others. + verses: + - Prov.27.23 + - Lev.25.35 + - Deut.15.10 + - Deut.22.14 + - question: What is forbidden in the eighth commandment? + number: 81 + answer: >- + The eighth commandment forbids whatsoever does or may unjustly hinder + our own or our neighbor's wealth or outward state. + verses: + - 1Tim.5.8 + - Prov.28.19 + - Prov.23.20-Prov.23.21 + - Eph.4.28 + - question: Which is the ninth commandment? + number: 82 + answer: >- + The ninth commandment is, "Thou shalt not bear false witness against + thy neighbor." + verses: + - Exod.20.16 + - question: What is required in the ninth commandment? + number: 83 + answer: >- + The ninth commandment requires the maintaining and promoting of truth + between man and man, and of our own and our neighbor's good name, + especially in witness bearing. + verses: + - Zech.8.16 + - Acts.25.10 + - Eccl.7.1 + - 3John.1.12 + - Prov.14.5 + - Prov.14.25 + - question: What is forbidden in the ninth commandment? + number: 84 + answer: >- + The ninth commandment forbids whatsoever is pre- judicial to truth, or + injurious to our own, or our neighbor's good name. + verses: + - Eph.4.25 + - Ps.15.3 + - 2Cor.8.20-2Cor.8.21 + - question: Which is the tenth commandment? + number: 85 + answer: >- + The tenth commandment is, "Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house. + Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his man servant, nor his + maid servant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor anything that is thy + neighbor's." + verses: + - Exod.20.17 + - question: What is required in the tenth commandment? + number: 86 + answer: >- + The tenth commandment requires full contentment with our own + condition, with a right and charitable frame of spirit towards our + neighbor, and all that is his. + verses: + - Heb.13.5 + - 1Tim.6.6 + - Rom.12.15 + - 1Cor.13.4-1Cor.13.7 + - Lev.19.18 + - question: What is forbidden in the tenth commandment? + number: 87 + 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. + verses: + - 1Cor.10.10 + - Jas.5.9 + - Gal.5.26 + - Col.3.5 + - question: Is any man able perfectly to keep the commandments of God? + number: 88 + answer: >- + No mere man, since the fall, is able in this life, perfectly to keep + the commandments of God, but daily breaks them in thought, word, and + deed. + verses: + - Eccl.7.20 + - Gen.6.5 + - Gen.8.21 + - 1John.1.8 + - Jas.3.8 + - Jas.3.2 + - Rom.3.23 + - question: What then is the purpose of the law since the fall? + number: 89 + answer: >- + The purpose of the law, since, the fall, is to reveal the perfect + righteousness of God, that His people may know his will for their + lives and the ungodly, being convicted of their sin, may be restrained + therein and brought to Christ for salvation. + verses: + - Ps.19.7-Ps.19.11 + - Rom.3.20 + - Rom.3.31 + - Rom.7.7 + - Rom.12.2 + - Titus.2.12-Titus.2.14 + - Gal.3.22 + - Gal.3.24 + - 1Tim.1.8 + - question: Are all transgressions of the law equally heinous? + number: 90 + answer: >- + Some sins in themselves and by reason of several aggravations, are + more heinous in the sight of God than others. + verses: + - Ezek.8.13 + - John.19.11 + - 1John.5.16 + - question: What does every sin deserve? + number: 91 + answer: >- + Every sin deserves God's wrath and curse, both in this life, and in + that which is to come. + verses: + - Eph.5.6 + - Gal.3.10 + - Prov.3.33 + - Ps.11.6 + - Rev.21.8 + - question: What does God require of us, that we may escape His wrath and curse, due to us for sin? + number: 92 + 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 and ordinary means whereby Christ communicates + to us the benefits of redemption. + verses: + - Acts.20.21 + - Acts.16.30-Acts.16.31 + - Acts.17.30 + - question: What is faith in Jesus Christ? + number: 93 + 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. + verses: + - Heb.10.39 + - John.1.12 + - Phil.3.9 + - Gal.2.15-Gal.2.16 + - question: What is repentance unto life? + number: 94 + 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. + verses: + - Acts.2.37 + - Joel.2.13 + - Jer.31.18-Jer.31.19 + - 2Cor.7.10-2Cor.7.11 + - Rom.6.18 + - question: What are the outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption? + number: 95 + answer: >- + The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicates to us the + benefits of redemption are His ordinances, especially the Word, + Baptism, the Lord's Supper and Prayer; all which are made effectual to + the elect for salvation. + verses: + - Rom.10.17 + - Jas.1.18 + - 1Cor.3.5 + - Acts.14.1 + - Acts.2.41-Acts.2.42 + - question: How is the Word made effectual to salvation? + number: 96 + answer: >- + The Spirit of God makes the reading, but especially the preaching of + the Word an effectual means of convincing and converting sinners, and + of building them up in holiness and comfort, through faith unto + salvation. + verses: + - Ps.119.11 + - Ps.119.18 + - 1Thess.1.6 + - 1Pet.2.1-1Pet.2.2 + - Rom.1.16 + - Ps.19.7 + - question: How is the Word to be read and heard that it may become effectual to salvation? + number: 97 + answer: >- + That the Word may become effectual to salvation we must attend + thereunto with diligence, preparation and prayer, receive it in faith + and love, lay it up in our hearts and practice it in our lives. + verses: + - Prov.8.34 + - 1Pet.2.1-1Pet.2.2 + - 1Tim.4.13 + - Heb.2.1 + - Heb.2.3 + - Heb.4.2 + - 2Thess.2.10 + - Ps.119.11 + - Jas.1.21 + - Jas.1.25 + - question: How do Baptism and the Lord's Supper become effectual means of salvation? + number: 98 + answer: >- + Baptism and the Lord's Supper become effectual means of salvation, not + from any virtue in them or in him that administers them, but only by + the blessing of Christ and the working of His Spirit in them that by + faith receive them. + verses: + - 1Pet.3.21 + - 1Cor.3.6-1Cor.3.7 + - 1Cor.12.13 + - question: Wherein do Baptism and the Lord's Supper differ from the other ordinances of God? + number: 99 + answer: >- + Baptism and the Lord's Supper differ from the other ordinances of God + in that they were specially instituted by Christ to represent and + apply to believers the benefits of the new covenant by visible and + outward signs. + verses: + - Matt.28.19 + - Acts.22.16 + - Matt.26.26-Matt.26.28 + - Rom.6.4 + - question: What is Baptism? + number: 100 + answer: >- + Baptism is an holy ordinance, wherein the washing with water in the + name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, signifies our + ingrafting into Christ and partaking of the benefits of the covenant + of grace, and our engagement to be the Lord's. + verses: + - Matt.28.19 + - Rom.6.3-Rom.6.5 + - Col.2.12 + - Gal.3.27 + - question: To whom is Baptism to be administered? + number: 101 + answer: >- + Baptism is to be administered to all those who actually profess + repentance towards God, faith in, and obedience to our Lord Jesus + Christ; and to none other. + verses: + - Acts.2.38 + - Matt.3.6 + - Mark.16.16 + - Acts.8.12 + - Acts.8.36 + - Acts.10.47-Acts.10.48 + - question: Are the infants of such as are professing believers to be baptized? + number: 102 + answer: >- + The infants of such as are professing believers are not to be + baptized; because there is neither command nor example in the Holy + Scriptures, or certain consequence from them, to baptize such. + verses: + - question: How is Baptism rightly administered? + number: 103 + answer: >- + Baptism is rightly administered by immersion, or dipping the whole + body of the person in water, in the name of the Father, and of the + Son, and of the Holy Spirit. + verses: + - Matt.3.16 + - John.3.23 + - Acts.8.38-Acts.8.39 + - question: What is the duty of those who are rightly baptized? + number: 104 + answer: >- + It is the duty of those who are rightly baptized to give up + themselves to some visible and orderly church of Jesus Christ, that + they may walk in all the command- ments and ordinances of the Lord + blameless. (Acts 2:46,47; Acts 9:26; 1 Peter 2:5; Heb. 10:25; Rom. + 16:5) + verses: + - + - question: What is the visible church? + number: 105 + answer: >- + The visible church is the organized society of professing believers, + in all ages and places, wherein the Gospel is truly preached and the + ordinances of Baptism and the Lord's Supper rightly administered. + verses: + - Acts.2.42 + - Acts.20.7 + - Acts.7.38 + - Eph.4.11-Eph.4.12 + - question: What is the invisible church? + number: 106 + answer: >- + The invisible church is the whole number of the elect, that have been, + are, or shall be gathered into one under Christ the head. + verses: + - Eph.1.10 + - Eph.1.22-Eph.1.23 + - John.10.16 + - John.11.52 + - question: What is the Lord's Supper? + number: 107 + answer: >- + The Lord's Supper is a holy ordinance, 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 corporeal + 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. + verses: + - 1Cor.11.23-1Cor.11.26 + - 1Cor.10.16 + - question: What is required to the worthy receiving of the Lord's Supper? + number: 108 + answer: >- + It is required of them that would worthily partake of the Lord's + Supper, that they examine themselves, of their knowledge to discern + the Lord's body; of their faith to feed upon Him; of their repentance, + love, and new obedience: lest, coming unworthily, they eat and drink + judgment to themselves. (1 Cor. 11:27-31; 1 Cor. 5:8; 2 Cor. 13:5) + verses: + - + - question: What is Prayer? + number: 109 + answer: >- + Prayer is an offering up of our desires to God, for things agreeable + to His will, in the name of Christ, with confession of our sins and + thankful acknowledgment of His mercies. + verses: + - 1John.5.14 + - 1John.1.9 + - Phil.4.6 + - Ps.10.17 + - Ps.145.19 + - John.14.13-John.14.14 + - question: What rule has God given for our direction in prayer? + number: 110 + answer: >- + The whole Word of God is of use to direct us in prayer, but the + special rule of direction is that prayer, which Christ taught His + disciples, commonly called the Lord's Prayer. + verses: + - Matt.6.9-Matt.6.13 + - 2Tim.3.16-2Tim.3.17 + - question: What does the preface of the Lord's Prayer teach us? + number: 111 + answer: >- + The preface of the Lord's Prayer, which is, "Our Father, which art in + heaven," teaches us to draw near to God, with all holy reverence and + confidence, as children to a father, able and ready to help us, and + that we should pray with and for others. + verses: + - Matt.6.9 + - Luke.11.13 + - Rom.8.15 + - Acts.12.5 + - 1Tim.2.1-1Tim.2.3 + - question: What do we pray for in the first petition? + number: 112 + answer: >- + In the first petition, which is "Hallowed be thy name," we pray that + God would enable us and others to glorify Him in all that whereby He + makes Himself known, and that He would dispose all things to His own + glory. + verses: + - Matt.6.9 + - Ps.67.1-Ps.67.3 + - Rom.11.36 + - Rev.4.11 + - question: What do we pray for in the second petition? + number: 113 + answer: >- + In the second petition, which is "Thy kingdom come," we pray that + satan's kingdom may be destroyed, and that the kingdom of grace may be + advanced; ourselves and others brought into it, and kept in it, and + that the kingdom of glory may be hastened. + verses: + - Matt.6.10 + - Ps.68.1-Ps.68.18 + - Rom.10.1 + - 2Thess.3.1 + - Matt.9.37-Matt.9.38 + - Rev.22.20 + - question: What do we pray for in the third petition? + number: 114 + answer: >- + In the third petition, which is, "Thy will be done in earth as it is + in heaven," we pray that God by His grace, would make us able and + willing to know, obey, and submit to His will in all things, as the + angels do in heaven. + verses: + - Matt.6.10 + - Ps.103.20-Ps.103.21 + - Ps.25.4-Ps.25.5 + - Ps.119.26 + - question: What do we pray for in the fourth petition? + number: 115 + answer: >- + In the fourth petition, which is, "Give us this day our daily bread," + we pray that of God's free gift, we may receive a competent portion of + the good things of this life and enjoy His blessing with them. + verses: + - Matt.6.11 + - Prov.30.8-Prov.30.9 + - 1Tim.6.6-1Tim.6.8 + - 1Tim.4.4-1Tim.4.5 + - question: What do we pray for in the fifth petition? + number: 116 + answer: >- + In the fifth petition, which is, "And forgive us our debts, as we + forgive our debtors," we pray that God, for Christ's sake, would + freely pardon all our sins; which we are the rather encouraged to ask, + because by His grace we are enabled from the heart to forgive others. + verses: + - Matt.6.12 + - Ps.51.1 + - Ps.51.3 + - Ps.51.7 + - Mark.11.25 + - Matt.18.35 + - question: What do we pray for in the sixth petition? + number: 117 + answer: >- + In the sixth petition, which is, "And lead us not into temptation, but + deliver us from evil," we pray that God would either keep us from + being tempted to sin, or support and deliver us when we are tempted. + verses: + - Matt.6.13 + - Matt.26.41 + - Ps.19.13 + - 1Cor.10.13 + - John.17.15 + - question: What does the conclusion of the Lord's Prayer teach us? + number: 118 + answer: >- + The conclusion of the Lord's Prayer, which is, "For thine is the + kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever, Amen," teaches us to + take our encouragement in prayer from God only, and in our prayers to + praise Him, ascribing kingdom, power, and glory to Him; and in + testimony of our desire, and assurance to be heard, we say, AMEN. + verses: + - Matt.6.13 + - Dan.9.18-Dan.9.19 + - 1Chr.29.11-1Chr.29.13 + - 1Cor.14.16 + - Phil.4.6 + - Rev.22.20 +... diff --git a/data/swiss/second-helvetic.yaml b/data/swiss/second-helvetic.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..91ee4c8f47ea456df2aba1f7580b9db70031570d --- /dev/null +++ b/data/swiss/second-helvetic.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,3125 @@ +--- +name: The Second Helvetic Confession +publication_year: 1562 +type: confession +markdown: true +chapters: + - name: Of The Holy Scripture Being The True Word of God + number: 1 + text: | + + CANONICAL SCRIPTURE. We believe and confess the canonical Scriptures of + the holy prophets and apostles of both Testaments to be the true Word of + God, and to have sufficient authority of themselves, not of men. For God + himself spoke to the fathers, prophets, apostles, and still speaks to us + through the Holy Scriptures. + + And in this Holy Scripture, the universal Church of Christ has the most + complete exposition of all that pertains to a saving faith, and also to + the framing of a life acceptable to God; and in this respect it is + expressly commanded by God that nothing be either added to or taken from + the same. + + SCRIPTURE TEACHES FULLY ALL GODLINESS. We judge, therefore, that from + these Scriptures are to be derived true wisdom and godliness, the + reformation and government of churches; as also instruction in all duties + of piety; and, to be short, the confirmation of doctrines, and the + rejection of all errors, moreover, all exhortations according to that word + of the apostle, "All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for + teaching, for reproof," etc. (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Again, "I am writing + these instructions to you," says the apostle to Timothy, "So that you may + know how one ought to behave in the household of God," etc. (1 Timothy + 3:14-15). SCRIPTURE IS THE WORD OF GOD. Again, the selfsame apostle to the + Thessalonians: "When," says he, "You received the word of God which you + heard from us, you accepted it, not as the word of men but as what it + really is, the Word of God," etc. (1 Thess. 2:13) For the Lord himself has + said in the gospel, "It is not you who speak, but the Spirit of my Father + speaking through you"; therefore "He who hears you hears me, and he who + rejects me rejects him who sent me" (Matt. 10:20; Luke 10:16; John 13:20) + + THE PREACHING OF THE WORD OF GOD IS THE WORD OF GOD. Wherefore when this + Word of God is now preached in the church by preachers lawfully called, we + believe that the very Word of God is proclaimed, and received by the + faithful; and that neither any other Word of God is to be invented nor is + to be expected from heaven: and that now the Word itself which is preached + is to be regarded, not the minister that preaches; for even if he be evil + and a sinner, nevertheless the Word of God remains still true and good. + + Neither do we think that therefore the outward preaching is to be thought + as fruitless because the instruction in true religion depends on the + inward illumination of the Spirit, or because it is written "And no longer + shall each man teach his neighbor..., for they shall all know me" + (Jer. 31:34), And "Neither he who plants nor he that waters is anything, + but only God who gives the growth" (1 Cor. 3:7). For although "No one can + come to Christ unless he be drawn by the Father" (John 6:44), And unless + the Holy Spirit inwardly illumines him, yet we know that it is surely the + will of God that his Word should be preached outwardly also. God could + indeed, by his Holy Spirit, or by the ministry of an angel, without the + ministry of St. Peter, have taught Cornelius in the Acts; but, + nevertheless, he refers him to Peter, of whom the angel speaking says, "He + shall tell you what you ought to do." + + INWARD ILLUMINATION DOES NOT ELIMINATE EXTERNAL PREACHING. For he that + illuminates inwardly by giving men the Holy Spirit, the same one, by way + of commandment, said unto his disciples, "Go into all the world, and + preach the gospel to the whole creation" (Mark 16:15). And so in + Phillippi, Paul preached the word outwardly to Lydia, a seller of purple + goods; but the Lord inwardly opened the woman's heart (Acts 16:14). And + the same Paul, after a beautiful development of his thought, in Romans + 10:17 at length comes to the conclusion, "So faith comes from hearing and + hearing from the Word of God by the preaching of Christ." + + At the same time we recognize that God can illuminate whom and when he + will, Even without the external ministry, for that is in his power; but we + speak of the usual way of instructing men, delivered unto us from God, + both by commandment and examples. + + HERESIES. We therefore detest all the heresies of Artemon, the + Manichaeans, the Valentinians, of Cerdon, and the Marcionites, who deny + that the Scriptures proceeded from the Holy Spirit; or did not accept some + parts of them, or interpolated and corrupted them. + + APOCRYPHA. And yet we do not conceal the fact that certain books of the + Old Testament were by the ancient authors called apocryphal, and by the + others ecclesiastical; in as much as some would have them read in the + churches, but not advanced as an authority from which the faith is to be + established. As Augustine also, in his De Civitate Dei, book 18, ch. 38, + remarks that "In the books of the Kings, the names and books of certain + prophets are cited"; but he adds that "They are not in the canon"; and + that "those books which we have suffice unto godliness." + + - name: Of Interpreting The Holy Scripture; and of Fathers, Councils, and Traditions + number: 2 + text: | + + THE TRUE INTERPRETATION OF SCRIPTURE. The apostle peter has said that the + Holy Scriptures are not of private interpretation (2 Pet. 1:20), and thus + we do not allow all possible interpretations. Nor consequently do we + acknowledge as the true or genuine interpretation of the Scriptures what + is called the conception of the Roman Church, that is, what the defenders + of the Roman Church plainly maintain should be thrust upon all for + acceptance. But we hold that the interpretation of the Scripture to be + orthodox and genuine which is gleaned from the Scriptures themselves (from + the nature of the language in which they were written, likewise according + to the circumstances in which they were set down, and expounded in the + light of and unlike passages and of many and clearer passages) and which + agree with the rule of faith and love, and contributes much to the glory + of God and man's salvation. + + INTERPRETATIONS OF THE HOLY FATHERS. Wherefore we do not despise the + interpretations of the holy Greek and Latin fathers, nor reject their + disputations and treatises concerning sacred matters as far as they agree + with the Scriptures; but we modestly dissent from them when they are found + to set down things differing from, or altogether contrary to, the + Scriptures. Neither do we think that we do them any wrong in this matter; + seeing that they all, with one consent, will not have their writings + equated with the canonical Scriptures, but command us to prove how far + they agree or disagree with them, and to accept what is in agreement and + to reject what is in disagreement. + + COUNCILS. And in the same order also we place the decrees and canons of + councils. + + Wherefore we do not permit ourselves, in controversies about religion or + matters of faith, to urge our case with only the opinions of the fathers + or decrees of councils; much less by received customs, or by the large + number of those who share the same opinion, or by the prescription of a + long time. Who Is The Judge? Therefore, we do not admit any other judge + than God himself, who proclaims by the Holy Scriptures what is true, what + is false, what is to be followed, or what to be avoided. So we do assent + to the judgments of spiritual men which are drawn from the Word of + God. Certainly Jeremiah and other prophets vehemently condemned the + assemblies of priests which were set up against the law of God; and + diligently admonished us that we should not listen to the fathers, or + tread in their path who, walking in their own inventions, swerved from the + law of God. + + TRADITIONS OF MEN. Likewise we reject human traditions, even if they be + adorned with high-sounding titles, as though they were divine and + apostolical, delivered to the Church by the living voice of the apostles, + and, as it were, through the hands of apostolical men to succeeding + bishops which, when compared with the Scriptures, disagree with them; and + by their disagreement show that they are not Apostolic at all. For as the + apostles did not contradict themselves in doctrine, so the apostolic men + did not set forth things contrary to the apostles. On the contrary, it + would be wicked to assert that the apostles by a living voice delivered + anything contrary to their writings. Paul affirms expressly that he taught + the same things in all churches (1 Cor. 4:17). And, again, "For we write + you nothing but what you can read and understand." (2 Cor. 1:13). Also, + in another place, he testifies that he and his disciples - that is, + apostolic men - walked in the same way, and jointly by the same Spirit did + all things (2 Cor. 12:18). Moreover, the Jews in former times had the + traditions of their elders; but these traditions were severely rejected by + the Lord, indicating that the keeping of them hinders God's law, and that + God is worshipped in vain by such traditions (Matt. 15:1 ff.; Mark 7:1 + ff). + + - name: Of God, His Unity and Trinity + number: 3 + text: | + + GOD IS ONE. We believe and teach that God is one in essence or nature, + subsisting in himself, all sufficient in himself, invisible, incorporeal, + immense, eternal, Creator of all things both visible and invisible, the + greatest good, living, quickening and preserving all things, omnipotent + and supremely wise, kind and merciful, just and true. Truly we detest many + gods because it is expressly written: "The Lord your God is one Lord" + (Deut.6:4). "I am the Lord your God. You shall have no other gods before + me" (Ex. 20:2-3). "I am the Lord, and there is no other god besides me. Am + I not the Lord, and there is no other God beside me? A righteous God and a + Savior; there is none besides me" ((Isa. 45:5, 21). "The Lord, the Lord, a + God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love + and faithfulness" (Ex. 34:6). + + GOD IS THREE. Notwithstanding we believe and teach that the same immense, + one and indivisible God is in person inseparably and without confusion + distinguished as Father, Son and Holy Spirit so, as the Father has + begotten the Son from eternity, the Son is begotten by an ineffable + generation, and the holy Spirit truly proceeds from them both, and the + same from eternity and is to be worshipped with both. + + Thus there are not three gods, but three persons, cosubstantial, + coeternal, and coequal; distinct with respect to hypostases, and with + respect to order, the one preceding the other yet without any + inequality. For according to the nature or essence they are so joined + together that they are one God, and the divine nature is common to the + Father, Son and Holy Spirit. + + For Scripture has delivered to us a manifest distinction of persons, the + angel saying, among other things, to the Blessed Virgin, "The Holy Spirit + will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; + therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God" (Luke + 1:35). And also in the baptism of Christ a voice is heard from heaven + concerning Christ, saying, "This is my beloved Son" (Math. 3:17). The Holy + Spirit also appeared in the form of a dove (John 1:32). And when the Lord + himself commanded the apostles to baptize, he commanded them to baptize + "in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit" + (Matt. 28:19). Elsewhere in the Gospel he said: "The Father will send the + Holy Spirit in my name" (John 14:26), and again he said: "When the + Counselor comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, even the Spirit + of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness to me," + etc. (John 15:26). In short, we receive the Apostles' Creed because it + delivers to us the true faith. + + HERESIES. Therefore we condemn the Jews and Mohammedans, and all those who + blaspheme that sacred and adorable Trinity. We also condemn all heresies + and heretics who teach that the Son and Holy Spirit are God in name only, + and also that there is something created and subservient, or subordinate + to another in the Trinity, and that their is something unequal in it, a + greater or a less, something corporeal or corporeally conceived, something + different with respect to character or will, something mixed or solitary, + as if the Son and Holy Spirit were the affections and properties of one + God the Father, as the Monarchians, Novatians, Praxeas, Patripassians, + Sabellius, Paul of Samosata, Aetius, Macedonius, Anthropomorphites, Arius, + and such like, have thought. + + - name: Of Idols or Images of God, Christ and The Saints + number: 4 + text: | + + IMAGES OF GOD. Since God as Spirit is in essence invisible and immense, he + cannot really be expressed by any art or image. For this reason we have no + fear pronouncing with Scripture that images of God are mere + lies. Therefore we reject not only the idols of the Gentiles, but also the + images of Christians. + + IMAGES OF CHRIST. Although Christ assumed human nature, yet he did not on + that account assume it in order to provide a model for carvers and + painters. He denied that he had come "to abolish the law and the prophets" + (Matt. 5:17). But images are forbidden by the law and the prophets" + (Deut. 4:15; Isa. 44:9). He denied that his bodily presence would be + profitable for the Church, and promised that he would be near us by his + Spirit forever (John 16:7). Who, therefore, would believe that a shadow or + likeness of his body would contribute any benefit to the pious? (2 + Cor. 5:5). Since he abides in us by his Spirit, we are therefore the + temple of God (1 Cor. 3:16). But "what agreement has the temple of God + with idols?" (2 Cor. 6:16). + + IMAGES OF SAINTS. And since the blessed spirits and saints in heaven, + while they lived here on earth, rejected all worship of themselves (Acts + 3:12 f.; 14:11 ff.; Rev. 14:7; 22:9) and condemned images, shall anyone + find it likely that the heavenly saints and angels are pleased with their + own images before which men kneel. uncover their heads, and bestow other + honors? + + But in fact in order to instruct men in religion and to remind them of + divine things and of their salvation, the Lord commanded the preaching of + the Gospel (Mark 16:15) - not to paint and to teach the laity by means of + pictures. Moreover, he instituted sacraments, but nowhere did he set up + images. + + THE SCRIPTURES OF THE LAITY. Furthermore, wherever we turn our eyes, we + see the living and true creatures of God which, if they be observed, as is + proper, make a much more vivid impression on the beholders than all images + or vain, motionless, feeble and dead pictures made by men, of which the + prophet truly said: "They have eyes, but do not see" (Ps. 115:5). + + LACTANTIUS. Therefore we approved the judgment of Lactantius, and ancient + writer, who says: "Undoubtedly no religion exists where there is an + image." + + EPIPHANIUS AND JEROME. We also assert that the blessed bishop Epiphanius + did right when, finding on the doors of a church a veil on which was + painted a picture supposedly of Christ or some saint, he ripped it down + and took it away, because to see a picture of a man hanging in the Church + of Christ was contrary to the authority of Scripture. Wherefore he charged + that from henceforth no such veils, which were contrary to our religion, + should be hung in the Church of Christ, and that rather such questionable + things, unworthy of the Church of Christ and the faithful people, should + be removed. Moreover, we approve of this opinion of St. Augustine + concerning true religion: "Let not the worship of the works of men be a + religion for us. For the artists themselves who make such things are + better; yet we ought not to worship them" (De Vera Religione, cap. 55). + + - name: Of The Adoration, Worship and Invocation of God Through The Only Mediator Jesus Christ + number: 5 + text: | + + GOD ALONE IS TO BE ADORED AND WORSHIPPED. We teach that the true God alone + is to be adored and worshipped. This honor we impart to none other, + according to the commandment of the Lord, "You shall worship the Lord your + God and him only shall you serve" (Math. 4:10). Indeed, all the prophets + severely inveighed against the people of Israel whenever they adored and + worshipped strange gods, and not the only true God. But we teach that God + is to be adored and worshipped as he himself has taught us to worship, + namely, "in spirit and in truth" (John 4:23 f.), not with any + superstition, but with sincerity, according to his Word; lest at anytime + he should say to us: "Who has required these things from your hands?" + (Isa. 1:12; Jer. 6:20). For Paul also says: "God is not served by human + hands, as though he needed anything," etc. (Acts 17:25). + + GOD ALONE IS TO BE INVOKED THROUGH THE MEDIATION OF CHRIST ALONE. In all + crises and trials of our life we call upon him alone, and that by the + mediation of our only mediator and intercessor, Jesus Christ. For we have + been explicitly commanded: "Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will + deliver you, and you shall glorify me" (Ps. 1:15). Moreover, we have a + most generous promise from the Lord Who said: "If you ask anything of the + Father, he will give it to you" (John 16:23), and: "Come to me, all who + labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest: (Matt 11:28). And + since it is written: "How are men to call upon him in whom they have not + believed?" (Rom. 10:14), and since we do believe in God alone, we + assuredly call upon him alone, and we do so through Christ. For as the + apostle says, "There is one God and there is one mediator between God and + men, the man Christ Jesus? (1 Tim. 2:5), and, "If any one does sin, we + have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous," etc. (I + John 2:1). + + THE SAINTS ARE NOT TO BE ADORED, WORSHIPPED OR INVOKED. For this reason we + do not adore, worship, or pray to the saints in heaven, or to other gods, + and we do not acknowledge them as our intercessors or mediators before the + Father in heaven. For God and Christ the Mediator are sufficient for us; + neither do we give to others the honor that is due to God alone and to his + Son, because he has expressly said: "My glory I give to no other: + (Isa. 42:8), and because Peter has said: "There is no other name under + heaven given among men by which we must be saved," except the name of + Christ (Acts 4:12). In him, those who give their assent by faith do not + seek anything outside Christ. + + THE DUE HONOR TO BE RENDERED TO THE SAINTS. At the same time we do not + despise the saints or think basely of them. For we acknowledge them to be + living members of Christ and friends of God who have gloriously overcome + the flesh and the world. Hence we love them as brothers, and also honor + them; yet not with any kind of worship but by an honorable opinion of them + and just praises of them. We also imitate them. For with ardent longings + and supplications we earnestly desire to be imitators of their faith and + virtues, to share eternal salvation with them, to dwell eternally with + them in the presence of God, and to rejoice with them in Christ. And in + this respect we approve of the opinion of St. Augustine in De Vera + Religione: "Let not our religion be the cult of men who have died. For if + they have lived holy lives, they are not to be thought of as seeking such + honors; on the contrary, they want us to worship him by whose illumination + they rejoice that we are fellow-servants of his merits. They are therefore + to be honored by the way of imitation, but not to be adored in a religious + manner," etc. + + RELICS OF THE SAINTS. Much less do we believe that the relics of the + saints are to be adored and reverenced. Those ancient saints seemed to + have sufficiently honored their dead when they decently committed their + remains to the earth after the spirit had ascended on high. And they + thought that the most noble relics of their ancestors were their virtues, + their doctrine, and their faith. Moreover, as they commend these "relics" + when praising the dead, so they strive to copy them during their life on + earth. + + SWEARING BY GOD'S NAME ALONE. These ancient men did not swear except by + the name of the only God, Yahweh, as prescribed by the divine + law. Therefore, as it is forbidden to swear by the names of strange gods + (Ex. 23:;13; Deut. 10:20), so we do not perform oaths to the saints that + are demanded of us. We therefore reject in all these matters a doctrine + that ascribes much too much to the saints in heaven. + + - name: Of the Providence of God + number: 6 + text: | + + ALL THINGS ARE GOVERNED BY THE PROVIDENCE OF GOD. We believe that all + things in heaven and on earth, and in all creatures, are preserved and + governed by the providence of this wise, eternal and almighty God. For + David testifies and says: "The Lord is high above all nations, and his + glory above the heavens! Who is like the Lord our God, who is seated on + high, who looks far down upon the heavens and the earth?" (Ps. 113:4 + ff.). Again: "Thou searchest out...all my ways. Even before a word is on + my tongue, lo, O Lord, Thou knowest it altogether" (Ps. 139:3 f.). Paul + also testifies and declares: "In him we live and move and have our being" + (Acts 17:28), and "from him and through him and to him are all things" + (Rom. 11:36). Therefore Augustine most truly and according to Scripture + declared in his book De Agone Christi, cap. 8, "The Lord said, 'Are not + two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground + without your Father's will' " (Matt. 10:29). By speaking thus he wanted to + show that what men regard as of least value is governed by God's + omnipotence. For he who is the truth says that the birds of the air are + fed by him and lilies of the field are clothed by him; he also says that + the hairs of our head are numbered (Matt. 6:26 ff.). + + THE EPICUREANS. We therefore condemn the Epicureans who deny the + providence of God, and all those who blasphemously say that God is busy + with the heavens and neither sees nor cares about us and our + affairs. David, the royal prophet, also condemned this when he said: "O + Lord, how long shall the wicked exult? They say, "The Lord does not see; + the God of Jacob does not perceive." Understand, O dullest of the people! + Fools, when will you be wise? He who planted the ear, does he not hear? He + who formed the eye, does he not see?" (Ps. 94:3, 7-9). + + MEANS NOT TO BE DESPISED. Nevertheless, we do not spurn as useless the + means by which divine providence works, but we teach that we are to adapt + ourselves to them in so far as they are recommended to us in the Word of + God. Wherefore we disapprove of the rash statements of those who say that + if all things are managed by the providence of God, then our efforts and + endeavors are in vain. It will be sufficient if we leave everything to the + governance of divine providence, and we will not have to worry about + anything or do anything. For although Paul understood that he sailed under + the providence of God who had said to him: "You must bear witness also at + Rome" (Acts 23:11), and in addition had given him the promise, "There will + be no loss of life among you...and not a hair is to perish from the head + of any of you" (Acts 27:22,34), yet when the sailors were nevertheless + thinking about abandoning ship the same Paul said to the centurion and the + soldiers: "Unless these men stay in the ship, you cannot be saved" (Acts + 27:31). For God, who has appointed to everything its end, has ordained the + beginning and the means by which it reaches its goal. The heathen ascribe + things to blind fortune and uncertain chance. But St. James does not want + us to say: "Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and + trade," but adds: "Instead you ought to say, `If the Lord wills, we shall + live and we shall do this or that' " (James 4:13, 15). And Augustine says: + "Everything which to vain men seems to happen in nature by accident, + occurs only by his Word, because it happens only at his command" + (Enarrationes in Psalmos 148). Thus it seemed to happen by mere chance + when Saul, while seeking his father's asses, unexpectedly fell in with the + prophet Samuel. But previously the Lord had said to the prophet: "Tomorrow + I will send to you a man from the land of Benjamin" (1 Sam 9:15). + + - name: Of The Creation of All Things; Of Angels, the Devil, and Man + number: 7 + text: | + + GOD CREATED ALL THINGS. This good and almighty God created all things, + both visible and invisible, by his co-eternal Word, and preserves them by + his co-eternal Spirit, as David testified when he said: "By the word of + the Lord the heavens were made, and all their host by the breath of his + mouth" (Ps. 33:6). And, as Scripture says, everything that God had made + was very good, and was made for the profit and use of man. Now we assert + that all those things proceed from one beginning. MANICHAEANS AND + MARCIONITES. Therefore, we condemn the Manichaeans and Marcionites who + impiously imagined two substances and natures, one good and the other + evil; also two beginnings and two gods contrary to each other, a good and + an evil one. + + OF ANGELS AND THE DEVIL. Among all creatures, angels and men are most + excellent. Concerning angels, Holy Scripture declares: "who makest the + winds thy messengers, fire and flame thy ministers" (Ps 104:4). Also it + says: "Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to serve, for the + sake of those who are to obtain salvation?" (Heb. 1:14). Concerning the + Devil, the Lord Jesus Himself testifies: "He was a murderer from the + beginning, and has nothing to do with the truth, because there is no truth + in him. When he lies, he speaks according to his own nature, for he is a + liar and the father of lies" (John 8:44). Consequently we teach that some + angels persisted in obedience and were appointed for faithful service to + God and men, but others fell of their own free will and were cast into + destruction, becoming enemies of all good and of the faithful, etc.... + + OF MAN. Now concerning, Scripture says that in the beginning he was made + good according to the image and likeness of God; that God placed him in + paradise and made all thing subject to him (Gen. chp 2). This is what + David magnificently sets forth in Psalm 8. Moreover, God gave him a wife + and blessed them. We also affirm that man consists of two different + substances in one person: an immortal soul which, when separate from the + body, neither sleeps nor dies, and a mortal body which will nevertheless + be raised up from the dead at the last judgement, in order that then the + whole man, either in life or in death, abide forever. + + THE SECTS. We condemn all who ridicule or by subtle arguments cast doubt + upon the immortality of the soul, or who say that the soul sleeps or is a + part of God. In short, we condemn all opinions of all men, however many, + that depart from what has been delivered unto us by the Holy Scriptures in + the Apostolic Church of Christ concerning creation, angels, and demons, + and man. + + - name: Of Man's Fall, Sin and the Cause of Sin + number: 8 + text: | + + THE FALL OF MAN. In the beginning, man was made according to the image of + God, in righteousness and true holiness, good and upright. But when at the + instigation of the serpent and by his own fault he abandoned goodness and + righteousness, he became subject to sin, death and various calamities. And + what he became by the fall, that is, subject to sin, death and various + calamities, so are all those who have descended from him. + + SIN. By sin we understand that innate corruption of man which has been + derived or propagated in us all from our first parents, by which we, + immersed in perverse desires and averse to all good, are inclined to all + evil. Full of all wickedness, distrust, contempt and hatred of God, we are + unable to do or even to think anything good of ourselves. Moreover, even + as we grow older, so by wicked thoughts, words and deeds committed against + God's law, we bring forth corrupt fruit worthy of an evil tree + (Matt. 12:33 ff.). For this reason by our own deserts, being subject to + the wrath of God, we are liable to just punishment, so that all of us + would have been cast away by God if Christ, the Deliverer, had not brought + us back. + + DEATH. By death we understand not only bodily death, which all of us must + once suffer on account of sins, but also eternal punishment due to our + sins and corruption. For the apostle says: "We were dead through + trespasses and sins...and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest + of mankind. But God, who is rich in mercy...even when we were dead through + our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ" (Eph. 2:1 ff.) Also: + "As sin came into the world through one man and death through sin, and so + death spread to all men because all men sinned" (Rom. 5:12). + + ORIGINAL SIN. We therefore acknowledge that there is original sin in all + men. + + ACTUAL SINS. We acknowledge that all other sins which arise from it are + called and truly are sins, no matter by what name they may be called, + whether mortal, venial or that which is said to be the sin against the + Holy Spirit which is never forgiven (Mark 3:29; 1 John 5:16). We also + confess that sins are not equal; although they arise from the same + fountain of corruption and unbelief, some are more serious than others. As + the Lord said, it will be more tolerable for Sodom than for the city that + rejects the word of the Gospel (Matt. 10:14 f.; 11:20 ff.). + + THE SECTS. We therefore condemn all who have taught contrary to this, + especially Pelagius and all Pelagians, together with the Jovinians who, + with the Stoics, regard all sins as equal. In this whole matter we agree + with St. Augustine who derived and defended his view from Holy + Scriptures. Moreover, we condemn Florinus and Blastus, against whom + Irenaeus wrote, and all who make God the author of sin. + + GOD IS NOT THE AUTHOR OF SIN, AND HOW FAR HE IS SAID TO HARDEN. It is + expressly written: "Thou art not a God who delights in wickedness. Thou + hatest all evildoers. Thou destroyest those who speak lies" (Ps. 5:4 + ff.). And again: "When the devil lies, he speaks according to his own + nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies" (John 8:44). Moreover, + there is enough sinfulness and corruption in us that it is not necessary + for God to infuse into us a new or still greater perversity. When, + therefore, it is said in Scripture that God hardens, blinds and delivers + up to a reprobate mind, it is to be understood that God does it by a just + judgment as a just Judge and Avenger. Finally, as often as God in + Scripture is said or seems to do something evil, it is not thereby said + that man does not do evil, but that God permits it and does not prevent + it, according to his just judgment, who could prevent it if he wished, or + because he turns man's evil into good, as he did in the case of the sin of + Joseph's brethren, or because he governs sins lest they break out and rage + more than is appropriate. St. Augustine writes in his Enchiridion: "What + happens contrary to his will occurs, in a wonderful and ineffable way, not + apart from his will. For it would not happen if he did not allow it. And + yet he does not allow it unwillingly but willingly. But he who is good + would not permit evil to be done, unless, being omnipotent, he could bring + good out of evil." Thus wrote Augustine. + + CURIOUS QUESTIONS. Other questions, such as whether God willed Adam to + fall, or incited him to fall, or why he did not prevent the fall, and + similar questions, we reckon among curious questions (unless perchance the + wickedness of heretics or of other churlish men compels us also to explain + them out of the Word of God, as the godly teachers of the Church have + frequently done), knowing that the Lord forbade man to eat of the + forbidden fruit and punished his transgression. We also know that what + things are done are not evil with respect to the providence, will, and the + power of God, but in respect of Satan and our will opposing the will of + God. + + - name: Of Free Will, and Thus of Human Powers + number: 9 + text: | + + In this matter, which has always produced many conflicts in the Church, we + teach that a threefold condition or state of man is to be considered. + + WHAT MAN WAS BEFORE THE FALL. There is the state in which man was in the + beginning before the fall, namely, upright and free, so that he could both + continue in goodness and decline to evil. However, he declined to evil, + and has involved himself and the whole human race in sin and death, as has + been said already. + + WHAT MAN WAS AFTER THE FALL. Then we are to consider what man was after + the fall. To be sure, his reason was not taken from him, nor was he + deprived of will, and he was not entirely changed into a stone or a + tree. But they were so altered and weakened that they no longer can do + what they could before the fall. For the understanding is darkened, and + the will which was free has become an enslaved will. Now it serves sin, + not unwillingly but willingly. And indeed, it is called a will, not an + unwill (ing). [Etenim voluntas, non noluntas dicitur.] + + MAN DOES EVIL BY HIS OWN FREE WILL. Therefore, in regard to evil or sin, + man is not forced by God or by the devil but does evil by his own free + will, and in this respect he has a most free will. But when we frequently + see that the worst crimes and designs of men are prevented by God from + reaching their purpose, this does not take away man's freedom in doing + evil, but God by his own power prevents what man freely planned + otherwise. Thus Joseph's brothers freely determined to get rid of him, but + they were unable to do it because something else seemed good to the + counsel of God. + + MAN IS NOT CAPABLE OF GOOD Per Se. In regard to goodness and virtue man's + reason does not judge rightly of itself concerning divine things. For the + evangelical and apostolic Scripture requires regeneration of whoever among + us wishes to be saved. Hence our first birth from Adam contributes nothing + to out salvation. Paul says: "The unspiritual man does not receive the + gifts of the Spirit of God," etc. (1 Cor. 2:14). And in another place he + denies that we of ourselves are capable of thinking anything good (2 + Cor. 3:5) Now it is known that the mind or intellect is the guide of the + will, and when the guide is blind, it is obvious how far the will + reaches. Wherefore, man not yet regenerate has no free will for good, no + strength to perform what is good. The Lord says in the Gospel: "Truly, + truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin" (John + 8:34). And the apostle Paul says: "The mind that is set on the flesh is + hostile to God; it does not submit to God's law, indeed it cannot" + (Rom. 8:7). Yet in regard to earthly things, fallen man is not entirely + lacking in understanding. + + UNDERSTANDING OF THE ARTS. For God in his mercy has permitted the powers + of the intellect to remain, though differing greatly from what was in man + before the fall. God commands us to cultivate our natural talents, and + meanwhile adds both gifts and success. And it is obvious that we make no + progress in all the arts without God's blessing. In any case, Scripture + refers all the arts to God; and, indeed, the heathen trace the origin of + the arts to the gods who invented them. + + OF WHAT KIND ARE THE POWERS OF THE REGENERATE, AND IN WHAT WAY THEIR WILLS + ARE FREE. Finally, we must see whether the regenerate have free wills, and + to what extent. In regeneration the understanding is illumined by the Holy + Spirit in order that it many understand both the mysteries and the will of + God. And the will itself is not only changed by the Spirit, but it is also + equipped with faculties so that it wills and is able to do the good of its + own accord (Rom. 8:1ff.). Unless we grant this, we will deny Christian + liberty and introduce a legal bondage. But the prophet has God saying: "I + will put my law within them, and I will write it upon their hearts" + (Jer. 31:33; Ezek. 36:26f.). The Lord also says in the Gospel: "If the Son + makes you free, you will be free indeed" (John 8:36). Paul also writes to + the Philippians: "It has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ + you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake" + (Phil. 1:29). Again: "I am sure that he who began a good work in you will + bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ" (v. 6). Also: "God is + at work in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure" + (ch. 2:13). + + THE REGENERATE WORK NOT ONLY PASSIVELY BUT ACTIVELY. However, in this + connection we teach that there are two things to be observed: First, that + the regenerate, in choosing and doing good, work not only passively but + actively. For they are moved by God that they may do themselves what they + do. For Augustine rightly adduces the saying that "God is said to be our + helper. But no one can be helped unless he does something." The + Manichaeans robbed man of all activity and made him like a stone or a + block of wood. + + THE FREE WILL IS WEAK IN THE REGENERATE. Secondly, in the regenerate a + weakness remains. For since sin dwells in us, and in the regenerate the + flesh struggles against the Spirit till the end of our lives, they do not + easily accomplish in all things what they had planned. These things are + confirmed by the apostle in Rom., ch. 7, and Gal., ch. 5. Therefore that + free will is weak in us on account of the remnants of the old Adam and of + innate human corruption remaining in us until the end of our + lives. Meanwhile, since the powers of the flesh and the remnants of the + old man are not so efficacious that they wholly extinguish the work of the + Spirit, for that reason the faithful are said to be free, yet so that they + acknowledge their infirmity and do not glory at all in their free + will. For believers ought always to keep in mind what St. Augustine so + many times inculcated according to the apostle: "What have you that you + did not receive? If then you received it, why do you boast as if it were + not a gift?" To this he adds that what we have planned does not + immediately come to pass. For the issue of things lies in the hand of + God. This is the reason Paul prayed to the Lord to prosper his journey + (Rom. 1:10). And this also is the reason the free will is weak. + + IN EXTERNAL THINGS THERE IS LIBERTY. Moreover, no one denies that in + external things both the regenerate and the unregenerate enjoy free + will. For man has in common with other living creatures (to which he is + not inferior) this nature to will some things and not to will others. Thus + he is able to speak or to keep silent, to go out of his house or to remain + at home, etc. However, even here God's power is always to be observed, for + it was the cause that Balaam could not go as far as he wanted (Num., + ch. 24), and Zacharias upon returning from the temple could not speak as + he wanted (Luke, ch.1). + + HERESIES. In this matter we condemn the Manichaeans who deny that the + beginning of evil was for man [created] good, from his free will. We also + condemn the Pelagians who assert that an evil man has sufficient free will + to do the good that is commanded. Both are refuted by Holy Scripture which + says to the former, "God made man upright" and to the latter, "If the Son + makes you free, you will be free indeed" (John 8:36). + + - name: Of the Predestination of God and the Election of the Saints + number: 10 + text: | + + GOD HAS ELECTED US OUT OF GRACE. From eternity God has freely, and of his + mere grace, without any respect to men, predestinated or elected the + saints whom he wills to save in Christ, according to the saying of the + apostle, "God chose us in him before the foundation of the world" + (Eph. 1:4). And again: "Who saved us and called an with a holy calling, + not in virtue of our works but in virtue of his own purpose and the grace + which he gave us in Christ Jesus ages ago, and now has manifested through + the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus" (2 Tim. 1:9 f.). + + WE ARE ELECTED OR PREDESTINATED IN CHRIST. Therefore, although not on + account of any merit of ours, God has elected us, not directly, but in + Christ, and on account of Christ, in order that those who are now + engrafted into Christ by faith might also be elected. But those who were + outside Christ were rejected, according to the word of the apostle, + "Examine yourselves, to see whether you are holding to your faith. Test + yourselves. Do you not realize that Jesus Christ is in you? -- unless + indeed you fail to meet the test!" (2 Cor. 13:5). + + WE ARE ELECTED FOR A DEFINITE PURPOSE. Finally, the saints are chosen in + Christ by God for a definite purpose, which the apostle himself explains + when he says, "He chose us in him for adoption that we should be holy and + blameless before him in love. He destined us for adoption to be his sons + through Jesus Christ that they should be to the praise of the glory of his + grace" (Eph. 1:4 ff.). + + WE ARE TO HAVE A GOOD HOPE FOR ALL. And although God knows who are his, + and here and there mention is made of the small number of elect, yet we + must hope well of all, and not rashly judge any man to be a reprobate. For + Paul says to the Philippians, "I thank my God for you all" (now he speaks + of the whole Church in Phillippi), "because of your fellowship in the + Gospel, being persuaded that he who began a good work in you will bring it + to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. It is also right that I have + this opinion of you all" (Phil. 1:3 ff.). + + WHETHER FEW ARE ELECT. And when the Lord was asked whether there were few + that should be saved, he does not answer and tell them that few or many + should be saved or damned, but rather he exhorts every man to "strive to + enter by the narrow door" (Luke 13:24): as if he should say, It is not for + you curiously to inquire about these matters, but rather to endeavor that + you may enter into heaven by the straight way. + + WHAT IN THIS MATTER IS TO BE CONDEMNED. Therefore we do not approve of the + impious speeches of some who say, "Few are chosen, and since I do not know + whether I am among the number of the few, I will enjoy myself." Others + say, "If I am predestinated and elected by God, nothing can hinder me from + salvation, which is already certainly appointed for me, no matter what I + do. But if I am in the number of the reprobate, no faith or repentance + will help me, since the decree of God cannot be changed. Therefore all + doctrines and admonitions are useless." Now the saying of the apostle + contradicts these men: "The Lord's servant must be ready to teach, + instructing those who oppose him, so that if God should grant that they + repent to know the truth, they may recover from the snare of the devil, + after being held captive by him to do his will" (2 Tim. 2:23 ff.). + + ADMONITIONS ARE NOT IN VAIN BECAUSE SALVATION PROCEEDS FROM + ELECTION. Augustine also shows that both the grace of free election and + the predestination, and also salutary admonitions and doctrines, are to be + preached (Lib. de Dono Perseverantiae, cap. 14 ff.). + + WHETHER WE ARE ELECTED. We therefore find fault with those who outside of + Christ ask whether they are elected. [Ed. 1568 reads: "whether they are + elected from eternity?"] And what has God decreed concerning them before + all eternity? For the preaching of the Gospel is to be heard, and it is to + be believed; and it is to be held as beyond doubt that if you believe and + are in Christ, you are elected. For the Father has revealed unto us in + Christ the eternal purpose of his predestination, as I have just now shown + from the apostle in 2 Tim. 1:9-10. This is therefore above all to be + taught and considered, what great love of the Father toward us is revealed + to us in Christ. We must hear what the Lord himself daily preaches to us + in the Gospel, how he calls and says: "Come to me all who labor and are + heavy-laden, and I will give you rest" (Matt. 11:28). "God so loved the + world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not + perish, but have eternal life" (John 3:16). Also, "It is not the will of + my Father that one of these little ones should perish" (Matt. 18:14). Let + Christ, therefore be the looking glass, in whom we may contemplate our + predestination. We shall have a sufficiently clear and sure testimony that + we are inscribed in the Book of Life if we have fellowship with Christ, + and he is ours and we are his in true faith. + + TEMPTATION IN REGARD TO PREDESTINATION. In the temptation in regard to + predestination, than which there is scarcely any other more dangerous, we + are confronted by the fact that God's promises apply to all the faithful, + for he says: "Ask, and everyone who seeks, shall receive" (Luke 11:9 f.) + This finally we pray, with the whole Church of God, "Our Father who art in + heaven" (Matt. 6:9), both because by baptism we are ingrafted into the + body of Christ, and we are often fed in his Church with his flesh and + blood unto life eternal. Thereby, being strengthened, we are commanded to + work out our salvation with fear trembling, according to the precept of + Paul. + + - name: Of Jesus Christ, True God and Man, the Only Savior of the World + number: 11 + text: | + + CHRIST IS TRUE GOD. We further believe and teach that the Son of God, our + Lord Jesus Christ, was predestinated or foreordained from eternity by the + Father to be the Savior of the world. And we believe that he was born, not + only when he assumed flesh of the Virgin Mary, and not only before the + foundation of the world was laid, but by the Father before all eternity in + an inexpressible manner. For Isaiah said: "Who can tell his generation?" + (Ch. 53:8). And Micah says: "His origin is from of old, from ancient days" + (Micah 5:2). And John said in the Gospel: "In the beginning was the Word, + and the Word was with God, and the Word was God," + etc. (Ch. 1:1). Therefore, with respect to his divinity the Son is coequal + and consubstantial with the Father; true God (Phil. 2:11), not only in + name or by adoption or by any merit, but in substance and nature, as the + apostle John has often said: "This is the true God and eternal life" (I + John 5:20). Paul also says: "He appointed the Son the heir of all things, + through whom also he created the world. He reflects the glory of God and + bears the very stamp of his nature, upholding all things by his word of + power" (Heb. 1:2 f.). For in the Gospel the Lord himself said: "Father, + glorify Thou me in Thy own presence with the glory which I had with Thee + before the world was made" (John 17:5). And in another place in the Gospel + it is written: "The Jews sought all the more to kill him because + he...called God his Father, making himself equal with God" (John 5:18). + + THE SECTS. We therefore abhor the impious doctrine of Arius and the Arians + against the Son of God, and especially the blasphemies of the Spaniard, + Michael Servetus, and all his followers, which Satan through them has, as + it were, dragged up out of hell and has most audaciously and impiously + spread abroad in the world. + + CHRIST IS TRUE MAN, HAVING REAL FLESH. We also believe and teach that the + eternal Son of the eternal God was made the Son of man, from the seed of + Abraham and David, not from the coitus of a man, as the Ebionites said, + but was most chastely conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the ever + virgin Mary, as the evangelical history carefully explains to us (Matt., + ch. 1). And Paul says: "he took not on him the nature of angels, but of + the seed of Abraham." Also the apostle John says that woever does not + believe that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh, is not of God. Therefore, + the flesh of Christ was neither imaginary not brought from heaven, as + Valentinus and Marcion wrongly imagined. + + A RATIONAL SOUL IN CHRIST. Moreover, our Lord Jesus Christ did not have a + soul bereft of sense and reason, as Apollinaris thought, nor flesh without + a soul, as Eunomius taught, but a soul with its reason, and flesh with its + senses, by which in the time of his passion he sustained real bodily pain, + as himself testified when he said: "My soul is very sorrowful, even to + death" (Matt. 26:38). And, "Now is my soul troubled" (John 12:27). + + TWO NATURES IN CHRIST. We therefore acknowledge two natures or substances, + the divine and the human, in one and the same Jesus Christ our Lord (Heb., + ch. 2). And we say that these are bound and united with one another in + such a way that they are not absorbed, or confused, or mixed, but are + united or joined together in one person the properties of the natures + being unimpaired and permanent. + + NOT TWO BUT ONE CHRIST. Thus we worship not two but one Christ the + Lord. We repeat: one true God and man. With respect to his divine nature + he is consubstantial with the Father, and with respect to the human nature + he is consubstantial with us men, and like us in all things, sin excepted + (Heb. 4:15). + + THE SECTS. And indeed we detest the dogma of the Nestorians who make two + of one Christ and dissolve the unity of the Person. Likewise we thoroughly + execrate the madness of Eutyches and of the Monothelites or Monophysites + who destroy the property of the human nature. + + THE DIVINE NATURE OF CHRIST IS NOT PASSIBLE, AND THE HUMAN NATURE IS NOT + EVERYWHERE. Therefore, we do not in any way teach that the divine nature + in Christ has suffered or that Christ according to his human nature is + still in this world and thus is everywhere. For neither do we think or + teach that the body of Christ ceased to be a true body after his + glorification, or was deified, and deified in such a way that it laid + aside its properties as regards body and soul, and changed entirely into a + divine nature and began to be merely one substance. + + THE SECTS. Hence we by no means approve of or accept the strained, + confused and obscure subtleties of Schwenkfeldt and of similar sophists + with their self-contradictory arguments; neither are we Schwenkfeldians. + + OUR LORD TRULY SUFFERED. We believe, moreover, that our Lord Jesus Christ + truly suffered and died for us in the flesh, as Peter says (1 Peter + 4:1). We abhor the most impious madness of the Jacobites and all the Turks + who execrate the suffering of the Lord. At the same time we do not deny + that the Lord of glory was crucified for us, according to Paul's words (I + Cor. 2:8). + + IMPARTATION OF PROPERTIES. We piously and reverently accept and use the + impartation of properties which is derived from Scripture and which has + been used by all antiquity in explaining and reconciling apparently + contradictory passages. + + CHRIST IS TRULY RISEN FROM THE DEAD. We believe and teach that the same + Jesus Christ our Lord, in his true flesh in which he was crucified and + died, rose again from the dead, and that not another flesh was raised + other than the one buried, or that a spirit was taken up instead of the + flesh, but that he retained his true body. Therefore, while his disciples + thought they saw the spirit of the Lord, he showed them his hands and feet + which were marked by the prints of the nails and wounds, and added: "See + my hands and my feet, that it is I myself; handle me, and see, for a + spirit has not flesh and bones as you see that I have" (Luke 24:39). + + CHRIST IS TRULY ASCENDED INTO HEAVEN. We believe that our Lord Jesus + Christ, in his same flesh, ascended above all visible heavens into the + highest heaven, that is, the dwelling-place of God and the blessed ones, + at the right hand of God the Father. Although it signifies an equal + participation in glory and majesty, it is also taken to be a certain place + about which the Lord, speaking in the Gospel, says: "I go to prepare a + place for you" (John 14:2). The apostle Peter also says: "Heaven must + receive Christ until the time of restoring all things" (Acts 3:21). And + from heaven the same Christ will return in judgment, when wickedness will + then be at its greatest in the world and when the Antichrist, having + corrupted true religion, will fill up all things with superstition and + impiety and will cruelly lay waste the Church with bloodshed and flames + (Dan., ch. 11). But Christ will come again to claim his own, and by his + coming to destroy the Antichrist, and to judge the living and the dead + (Acts 17:31). For the dead will rise again (2 Thess. 4:14 ff.), and those + who on that day (which is unknown to all creatures [Mark 13:32]) will be + alive will be changed "in the twinkling of an eye," and all the faithful + will be caught up to meet Christ in the air, so that then they may enter + with him into the blessed dwelling-places to live forever (1 Cor. 15:51 + f.). But the unbelievers and ungodly will descend with the devils into + hell to burn forever and never to be redeemed from torments (Matt. 25:46). + + THE SECTS. We therefore condemn all who deny a real resurrection of the + flesh (2 Tim. 2:18), or who with John of Jerusalem, against whom Jerome + wrote, do not have a correct view of the glorification of bodies. We also + condemn those who thought that the devil and all the ungodly would at some + time be saved, and that there would be an end to punishments. For the Lord + has plainly declared: "Their fire is not quenched, and their worm does not + die" (Mark 9:44). We further condemn Jewish dreams that there will be a + golden age on earth before the Day of Judgment, and that the pious, having + subdued all their godless enemies, will possess all the kingdoms of the + earth. For evangelical truth in Matt., chs. 24 and 25, and Luke, ch. 18, + and apostolic teaching in 2 Thess., ch. 2, and 2 Tim., chs. 3 and 4, + present something quite different. + + THE FRUIT OF CHRIST'S DEATH AND RESURRECTION. Further by his passion and + death and everything which he did and endured for our sake by his coming + in the flesh, our Lord reconciled all the faithful to the heavenly Father, + made expiation for sins, disarmed death, overcame damnation and hell, and + by his resurrection from the dead brought again and restored life and + immortality. For he is our righteousness, life and resurrection, in a + word, the fulness and perfection of all the faithful, salvation and all + sufficiency. For the apostle says: "In him all the fulness of God was + pleased to dwell," and, "You have come to fulness of life in him" (Col., + chs. 1 and 2). + + JESUS CHRIST IS THE ONLY SAVIOR OF THE WORLD, AND THE TRUE AWAITED + MESSIAH. For we teach and believe that this Jesus Christ our Lord is the + unique and eternal Savior of the human race, and thus of the whole world, + in whom by faith are saved all who before the law, under the law, and + under the Gospel were saved, and however many will be saved at the end of + the world. For the Lord himself says in the Gospel: "He who does not enter + the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a + thief and a robber....I am the door of the sheep" (John 10:1 and 7). And + also in another place in the same Gospel he says: "Abraham saw my day and + was glad" (ch. 7:56). The apostle Peter also says: "There is salvation in + no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by + which we must be saved." We therefore believe that we will be saved + through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, as our fathers were (Acts + 4:12; 10:43; 15:11). For Paul also says: "All our fathers ate the same + spiritual food, and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank + from the spiritual Rock which followed them, and the Rock was Christ" (I + Cor. 10:3 f.). And thus we read that John says: "Christ was the Lamb which + was slain from the foundation of the world" (Rev. 14:8), and John the + Baptist testified that Christ is that "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin + of the world" (John 1:29). Wherefore, we quite openly profess and preach + that Jesus Christ is the sole Redeemer and Savior of the world, the King + and High Priest, the true and awaited Messiah, that holy and blessed one + whom all the types of the law and predictions of the prophets prefigured + and promised; and that God appointed him beforehand and sent him to us, so + that we are not now to look for any other. Now there only remains for all + of us to give all glory to Christ, believe in him, rest in him alone, + despising and rejecting all other aids in life. For however many seek + salvation in any other than in Christ alone, have fallen from the grace of + God and have rendered Christ null and void for themselves (Gal. 5:4). + + THE CREEDS OF FOUR COUNCILS RECEIVED. And, to say many things with a few + words, with a sincere heart we believe, and freely confess with open + mouth, whatever things are defined from the Holy Scriptures concerning the + mystery of the incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ, and are summed up in + the Creeds and decrees of the first four most excellent synods convened at + Nicaea, Constantinople, Ephesus and Chalcedon -- together with the Creed + of blessed Athanasius [The so-called Athanasian Creed was not written by + Athanasius but dates from the ninth century. It is also called the + "Quicunque" from the opening word of the Latin text.], and all similar + symbols; and we condemn everything contrary to these. + + THE SECTS. And in this way we retain the Christian, orthodox and catholic + faith whole and unimpaired; knowing that nothing is contained in the + aforesaid symbols which is not agreeable to the Word of God, and does not + altogether make for a sincere exposition of the faith. + + - name: Of the Law of God + number: 12 + text: | + + THE WILL OF GOD IS EXPLAINED FOR US IN THE LAW OF GOD. We teach that the + will of God is explained for us in the law of God, what he wills or does + not will us to do, what is good and just, or what is evil and + unjust. Therefore, we confess that the law is good and holy. + + THE LAW OF NATURE. And this law was at one time written in the hearts of + men by the finger of God (Rom. 2:15), and is called the law of nature (the + law of Moses is in two Tables), and at another it was inscribed by his + finger on the two Tables of Moses, and eloquently expounded in the books + of Moses (Ex. 20:1 ff.; Deut. 5:6 ff.). For the sake of clarity we + distinguish the moral law which is contained in the Decalogue or two + Tables and expounded in the books of Moses, the ceremonial law which + determines the ceremonies and worship of God, and the judicial law which + is concerned with political and domestic matters. + + THE LAW IS COMPLETE AND PERFECT. We believe that the whole will of God and + all necessary precepts for every sphere of life are taught in this + law. For otherwise the Lord would not have forbidden us to add or to take + away anything from this law; neither would he have commanded us to walk in + a straight path before this law, and not to turn aside from it by turning + to the right or to the left (Deut. 4:2; 12:32). + + WHY THE LAW WAS GIVEN. We teach that this law was not given to men that + they might be justified by keeping it, but that rather from what it + teaches we may know (our) weakness, sin and condemnation, and, despairing + of our strength, might be converted to Christ in faith. For the apostle + openly declares: "The law brings wrath," and, "Through the law comes + knowledge of sin" (Rom. 4:15; 3:20), and, "If a law had been given which + could justify or make alive, then righteousness would indeed be by the + law. But the Scripture (that is, the law) has concluded all under sin, + that the promise which was of the faith of Jesus might be given to those + who believe....Therefore, the law was our schoolmaster unto Christ, that + we might be justified by faith" (Gal.3:21 ff.). + + THE FLESH DOES NOT FULFIL THE LAW. For no flesh could or can satisfy the + law of God and fulfil it, because of the weakness in our flesh which + adheres and remains in us until our last breath. For the apostle says + again: "God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do: + sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin" + (Rom. 8:3). Therefore, Christ is the perfecting of the law and our + fulfilment of it (Rom. 10:4), who, in order to take away the curse of the + law, was make a curse for us (Gal. 3:13). Thus he imparts to us through + faith his fulfilment of the law, and his righteousness and obedience are + imputed to us. + + HOW FAR THE LAW IS ABROGATED. The law of God is therefore abrogated to the + extent that it no longer condemns us, nor works wrath in us. For we are + under grace and not under the law. Moreover, Christ has fulfilled all the + figures of the law. Hence, with the coming of the body, the shadows + ceased, so that in Christ we now have the truth and all fulness. But yet + we do not on that account contemptuously reject the law. For we remember + the words of the Lord when he said: "I have not come to abolish the law + and the prophets but to fulfil them" (Matt. 5:17). We know that in the law + is delivered to us the patterns of virtues and vices. We know that the + written law when explained by the Gospel is useful to the Church, and that + therefore its reading is not to be banished from the Church. For although + Moses' face was covered with a veil, yet the apostle says that the veil + has been taken away and abolished by Christ. + + THE SECTS. We condemn everything that heretics old and new have taught + against the law. + + - name: Of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, of the Promises, and of the Spirit and Letter + number: 13 + text: | + + THE ANCIENTS HAD EVANGELICAL PROMISES. The Gospel is, indeed, opposed to + the law. For the law works wrath and announces a curse, whereas the Gospel + preaches grace and blessing. John says: "For the law was given through + Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ" (John 1:17). Yet + notwithstanding it is most certain that those who were before the law and + under the law, were not altogether destitute of the Gospel. For they had + extraordinary evangelical promises such as these are: "The seed of the + woman shall bruise the serpent's head" (Gen. 3:15). "In thy seed shall all + the nations of the earth be blessed" (Gen. 22:18). "The scepter shall not + depart from Judah...until he comes" (Gen. 49:10). "The Lord will raise up + a prophet from among his own brethren" (Deut. 18:15; Acts 3:22), etc. + + THE PROMISES TWOFOLD. And we acknowledge that two kinds of promises were + revealed to the fathers, as also to us. For some were of present or + earthly things, such as the promises of the Land of Canaan and of + victories, and as the promise today still of daily bread. Others were then + and are still now of heavenly and eternal things, namely, divine grace, + remission of sins, and eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ. + + THE FATHERS ALSO HAD NOT ONLY CARNAL BUT SPIRITUAL PROMISES. Moreover, the + ancients had not only external and earthly but also spiritual and heavenly + promises in Christ. Peter says: "The prophets who prophesied of the grace + that was to be yours searched and inquired about this salvation" (1 Peter + 1:10). Wherefore the apostle Paul also said: "The Gospel of God was + promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy scriptures" + (Rom. 1:2). Thereby it is clear that the ancients were not entirely + destitute of the whole Gospel. + + WHAT IS THE GOSPEL PROPERLY SPEAKING? And although our fathers had the + Gospel in this way in the writings of the prophets by which they attained + salvation in Christ through faith, yet the Gospel is properly called glad + and joyous news, in which, first by John the Baptist, then by Christ the + Lord himself, and afterwards by the apostles and their successors, is + preached to us in the world that God has now performed what he promised + from the beginning of the world, and has sent, nay more, has given us his + only Son and in him reconciliation with the Father, the remission of sins, + all fulness and everlasting life. Therefore, the history delineated by the + four Evangelists and explaining how these things were done or fulfilled by + Christ, what things Christ taught and did, and that those who believe in + him have all fulness, is rightly called the Gospel. The preaching and + writings of the apostles, in which the apostles explain for us how the Son + was given to us by the Father, and in him everything that has to do with + life and salvation, is also rightly called evangelical doctrine, so that + not even today, if sincerely preached, does it lose its illustrious title. + + OF THE SPIRIT AND THE LETTER. That same preaching of the Gospel is also + called by the apostle "the spirit" and "the ministry of the spirit" + because by faith it becomes effectual and living in the ears, nay more, in + the hearts of believers through the illumination of the Holy Spirit (2 + Cor. 3:6). For the letter, which is opposed to the Spirit, signifies + everything external, but especially the doctrine of the law which, without + the Spirit and faith, works wrath and provokes sin in the minds of those + who do not have a living faith. For this reason the apostle calls it "the + ministry of death." In this connection the saying of the apostle is + pertinent: "The letter kills, but the Spirit gives life." And false + apostles preached a corrupted Gospel, having combined it with the law, as + if Christ could not save without the law. + + THE SECTS. Such were the Ebionites said to be, who were descended from + Ebion the heretic, and the Nazarites who were formerly called Mineans. All + these we condemn, while preaching the pure Gospel and teaching that + believers are justified by the Spirit [The original manuscript has + "Christ" instead of "Spirit".] alone, and not by the law. A more detailed + exposition of this matter will follow presently under the heading of + justification. + + THE TEACHING OF THE GOSPEL IS NOT NEW, BUT MOST ANCIENT DOCTRINE. And + although the teaching of the Gospel, compared with the teaching of the + Pharisees concerning the law, seemed to be a new doctrine when first + preached by Christ (which Jeremiah also prophesied concerning the New + Teatament), yet actually it not only was and still is an old doctrine + (even if today it is called new by the Papists when compared with the + teaching now received among them), but is the most ancient of all in the + world. For God predestinated from eternity to save the world through + Christ, and he has disclosed to the world through the Gospel this his + predestination and eternal counsel (2 Tim. 2:9 f.). Hence it is evident + that the religion and teaching of the Gospel among all who ever were, are + and will be, is the most ancient of all. Wherefore we assert that all who + say that the religion and teaching of the Gospel is a faith which has + recently arisen, being scarcely thirty years old, err disgracefully and + speak shamefully of the eternal counsel of God. To them applies the saying + of Isaiah the prophet: "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who + put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet + and sweet for bitter!" (Isa. 5:20). + + - name: Of Repentance and the Conversion of Man + number: 14 + text: | + + The doctrine of repentance is joined with the Gospel. For so has the Lord + said in the Gospel: "Repentance and forgiveness of sins should be preached + in my name to all nations" (Luke 24:47). + + WHAT IS REPENTANCE? By repentance we understand (1) the recovery of a + right mind in sinful man awakened by the Word of the Gospel and the Holy + Spirit, and received by true faith, by which the sinner immediately + acknowledges his innate corruption and all his sins accused by the Word of + God; and (2) grieves for them from his heart, and not only bewails and + frankly confesses them before God with a feeling of shame, but also (3) + with indignation abominates them; and (4) now zealously considers the + amendment of his ways and constantly strives for innocence and virtue in + which conscientiously to exercise himself all the rest of his life. + + TRUE REPENTANCE IS CONVERSION TO GOD. And this is true repentance, namely, + a sincere turning to God and all good, and earnest turning away from the + devil and all evil. + + 1. REPENTANCE IS A GIFT OF GOD. Now we expressly say that this repentance + is a sheer gift of God and not a work of our strength. For the apostle + commands a faithful minister diligently to instruct those who oppose the + truth, if "God may perhaps grant that they will repent and come to know + the truth" (2 Tim. 2:25). + + 2. LAMENTS SINS COMMITTED. Now that sinful woman who washed the feet of + the Lord with her tears, and Peter who wept bitterly and bewailed his + denial of the Lord (Luke 7:38; 22:62) show clearly how the mind of a + penitent man ought to be seriously lamenting the sins he has committed. + + 3. CONFESSES SINS TO GOD. Moreover, the prodigal son and the publican in + the Gospel, when compared with the Pharisee, present us with the most + suitable pattern of how our sins are to be confessed to God. The former + said: "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer + worthy to be called your son; treat me as one of your hired servants" + (Luke 15:8 ff.). And the latter, not daring to raise his eyes to heaven, + beat his breast, saying, "God be merciful to me a sinner" (ch. 18:13). And + we do not doubt that they were accepted by God into grace. For the apostle + John says: "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just, and will + forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we + have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us" (1 John + 1:9 f.). + + SACERDOTAL CONFESSION AND ABSOLUTION. But we believe that this sincere + confession which is made to God alone, either privately between God and + the sinner, or publicly in the Church where the general confession of sins + is said, is sufficient, and that in order to obtain forgiveness of sins it + is not necessary for anyone to confess his sins to a priest, mumuring them + in his ears, that in turn he might receive absolution from the priest with + his laying on of hands, because there is neither a commandment nor an + example of this in Holy Scriptures. David testifies and says: "I + acknowledged my sin to thee, and did not hide my iniquity; I said, `I will + confess my transgressions to the Lord'; then thou didst forgive the guilt + of my sin" (Ps. 32:5). And the Lord who taught us to pray and at the same + time to confess our sins said: "Pray then like this: Our Father, who art + in heaven,...forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our debtors" + (Matt. 6:12). Therefore it is necessary that we confess our sins to God + our Father, and be reconciled with our neighbor if we have offended + him. Concerning this kind of confession, the Apostle James says: "Confess + your sins to one another" (James 5:16). If, however, anyone is overwhelmed + by the burden of his sins and by perplexing temptations, and will seek + counsel, instruction and comfort privately, either from a minister of the + Church, or from any other brother who is instructed in God's law, we do + not disapprove; just as we also fully approve of that general and public + confession of sins which is usually said in Church and in meetings for + worship, as we noted above, inasmuch as it is agreeable to Scripture. + + OF THE KEYS OF THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. Concerning the keys of the Kingdom + of Heaven which the Lord gave to the apostles, many babble many + astonishing things, and out of them forge swords, spears, scepters and + crowns, and complete power over the greatest kingdoms, indeed, over souls + and bodies. Judging simply according to the Word of the Lord, we say that + all properly called ministers possess and exercise the keys or the use of + them when they proclaim the Gospel; that is, when they teach, exhort, + comfort, rebuke, and keep in discipline the people committed to their + trust. + + OPENING AND SHUTTING (THE KINGDOM). For in this way they open the Kingdom + of Heaven to the obedient and shut it to the disobedient. The Lord + promised these keys to the apostles in Matt., ch. 16, and gave them in + John, ch. 20, Mark, ch. 16, and Luke, ch. 24, when he sent out his + disciples and commanded them to preach the Gospel in all the world, and to + remit sins. + + THE MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION. In the letter to the Corinthians the + apostle says that the Lord gave the ministry of reconciliation to his + ministers (2 Cor. 5:18 ff.). And what this is he then explains, saying + that it is the preaching or teaching of reconciliation. And explaining his + words still more clearly he adds that Christ's ministers discharge the + office of an ambassador in Christ's name, as if God himself through + ministers exhorted the people to be reconciled to God, doubtless by + faithful obedience. Therefore, they excercise the keys when they persuade + [men] to believe and repent. Thus they reconcile men to God. + + MINISTERS REMIT SINS. Thus they remit sins. Thus they open the Kingdom of + Heaven, and bring believers into it: very different from those of whom the + Lord said in the Gospel, "Woe to you lawyers! For you have taken away the + key of knowledge; you did not enter yourselves, and you hindered those who + were entering." + + HOW MINISTERS ABSOLVE. Ministers, therefore, rightly and effectually + absolve when they preach the Gospel of Christ and thereby the remission of + sins, which is promised to each one who believes, just as each one is + baptized, and when they testify that it pertains to each one + peculiarly. Neither do we think that this absolution becomes more + effectual by being murmured in the ear of someone or by being murmured + singly over someone's head. We are nevertheless of the opinion that the + remission of sins in the blood of Christ is to be diligently proclaimed, + and that each one is to be admonished that the forgiveness of sins + pertains to him. + + DILIGENCE IN THE RENEWAL OF LIFE. But the examples in the Gospel teach us + how vigilant and diligent the penitent ought to be in striving for newness + of life and in mortifying the old man and quickening the new. For the Lord + said to the man he healed of palsy: "See, you are well! Sin no more, that + nothing worse befall you" (John 5:14). Likewise to the adulteress whom he + set free he said: "Go, and sin no more" (ch. 8:11). To be sure, by these + words he did not mean that any man, as long as he lived in the flesh, + could not sin; he simply recommends diligence and a careful devotion, so + that we should strive by all means, and beseech God in prayers lest we + fall back into sins from which, as it were, we have been resurrected, and + lest we be overcome by the flesh, the world and the devil. Zacchaeus the + publican, whom the Lord had received back into favor, exclaims in the + Gospel: "Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I + have defrauded any one of anything, I restore it fourfold" (Luke + 19:8). Therefore, in the same way we preach that restitution and + compassion, and even almsgiving, are necessary for those who truly repent, + and we exhort all men everywhere in the words of the apostle: "Let not sin + therefore reign in your mortal bodies, to make you obey their passions. Do + not yield your members to sin as instruments of wickedness, but yield + yourselves to God as men who have been brought from death to life, and + your members to God as instruments of righteousness" (Rom. 6:12 f.). + + ERRORS. Wherefore we condemn all impious utterances of some who wrongly + use the preaching of the Gospel and say that it is easy to return to + God. Christ has atoned for all sins. Forgiveness of sins is + easy. Therefore, what harm is there in sinning? Nor need we be greatly + concerned about repentance, etc. Notwithstanding we always teach that an + access to God is open to all sinners, and that he forgives all sinners of + all sins except the one sin against the Holy Spirit (Mark 3:29). + + THE SECTS. Wherefore we condemn both old and new Novatians and Catharists. + + PAPAL INDULGENCES. We especially condemn the lucrative doctrine of the + Pope concerning penance, and against his simony and his simoniacal + indulgences we avail ourselves of Peter's judgment concerning Simon: "Your + silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of + God with money! You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your + heart is not right before God" (Acts 8:20 f.). + + SATISFACTIONS. We also disapprove of those who think that by their own + satisfactions they make amends for sins committed. For we teach that + Christ alone by his death or passion is the satisfaction, propitiation or + expiation of all sins (Isa., ch.53; 1 Cor. 1:30). Yet as we have already + said, we do not cease to urge the mortification of the flesh. We add, + however, that this mortification is not to be proudly obtruded upon God as + a satisfaction for sins, but is to be performed humble, in keeping with + the nature of the children of God, as a new obedience out of gratitude for + the deliverance and full satisfaction obtained by the death and + satisfaction of the Son of God. + + - name: Of the True Justification of the Faithful + number: 15 + text: | + + WHAT IS JUSTIFICATION? According to the apostle in his treatment of + justification, to justify means to remit sins, to absolve from guilt and + punishment, to receive into favor, and to pronounce a man just. For in his + epistle to the Romans the apostle says: "It is God who justifies; who is + to condemn?" (Rom. 8:33). To justify and to condemn are opposed. And in + The Acts of the Apostles the apostle states: "Through Christ forgiveness + of sins is proclaimed to you, and by him everyone that believes is freed + from everything from which you could not be freed by the law of Moses" + (Acts 13:38 f.). For in the Law and also in the Prophets we read: "If + there is a dispute between men, and they come into court...the judges + decide between them, acquitting the innocent and condemning the guilty" + (Deut. 25:1). And in Isa., ch. 5: "Woe to those...who aqcuit the guilty + for a bribe." + + WE ARE JUSTIFIED ON ACCOUNT OF CHRIST. Now it is most certain that all of + us are by nature sinners and godless, and before God's judgment-seat are + convicted of godlessness and are guilty of death, but that, solely by the + grace of Christ and not from any merit of ours or consideration for us, we + are justified, that is, absolved from sin and death by God the Judge. For + what is clearer than what Paul said: "Since all have sinned and fall short + of the glory of God, they are justified by his grace as a gift, through + the redemption which is in Christ Jesus" (Rom. 3:23 f.). + + IMPUTED RIGHTEOUSNESS. For Christ took upon himself and bore the sins of + the world, and satisfied divine justice. Therefore, solely on account of + Christ's sufferings and resurrection God is propitious with respect to our + sins and does not impute them to us, but imputes Christ's righteousness to + us as our own (2 Cor. 5;19 ff.; Rom. 4;25), so that now we are not only + cleansed and purged from sins or are holy, but also, granted the + righteousness of Christ, and so absolved from sin, death and condemnation, + are at last righteous and heirs of eternal life. Properly speaking, + therefore, God alone justifies us, and justifies only on account of + Christ, not imputing sins to us but imputing his righteousness to us. + + WE ARE JUSFIFIED BY FAITH ALONE. But because we receive this + justification, not through any works, but through faith in the mercy of + God and in Christ, we therefore teach and believe with the apostle that + sinful man is justified by faith alone in Christ, not by the law or any + works. For the apostle says: "We hold that a man is justified by faith + apart from works of law" (Rom. 3:28). Also: "If Abraham was justified by + works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. For what does + the scripture say? Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as + righteousness....And to one who does not work but believes in him who + justifies the ungodly, his faith is reckoned as righteousness" (Rom. 4:2 + ff.; Gen. 15:6). And again: "By grace you have been saved through faith; + and this is not your own doing, it is the gift of God--not because of + works, lest any man should boast," etc. (Eph. 2:8 f.). Therefore, because + faith receives Christ our righteousness and attributes everything to the + grace of God in Christ, on that account justification is attributed to + faith, chiefly because of Christ and not therefore because it is our + work. For it is the gift of God. + + WE RECEIVE CHRIST BY FAITH. Moreover, the Lord abundantly shows that we + receive Christ by faith, in John, ch. 6, where he puts eating for + believing, and believing for eating. For as we receive food by eating, so + we participate in Christ by believing. + + JUSTIFICATION IS NOT ATTRIBUTED PARTLY TO CHRIST OR TO FAITH, PARTLY TO + US. Therefore, we do not share in the benefit of justification partly + because of the grace of God or Christ, and partly because of ourselves, + our love, works or merit, but we attribute it wholly to the grace of God + in Christ through faith. For our love and our works could not please God + in Christ through faith. For our love and our works could not please God + if performed by unrighteous men. Therefore, it is necessary for us to be + righteous before we may love and do good works. We are made truly + righteous, as we have said, by faith in Christ purely by the grace of God, + who does not impute to us our sins, but the righteousness of Christ, or + rather, he imputes faith in Christ to us for righteousness. Moreover, the + apostle very clearly derives love from faith when he says: "The aim of our + command is love that issues from a pure heart, a good conscience, and a + sincere faith" (1 Tim. 1:5) + + JAMES COMPARED WITH PAUL. Wherefore, in this matter we are not speaking of + a fictitious, empty, lazy and dead faith, but of a living, quickening + faith. It is and is called a living faith because it apprehends Christ who + is life and makes alive, and shows that it is alive by living works. And + so James does not contradict anything in this doctrine of ours. For he + speaks of an empty, dead faith of which some boasted but who did not have + Christ living in them by faith (James 2:14 ff.). James said that works + justify, yet without contradicting the apostle (otherwise he would have to + be rejected) but showing that Abraham proved his living and justifying + faith by works. This all the pious do, but they trust in Christ alone and + not in their own works. For again the apostle said: "It is no longer I who + live, but Christ who lives in me; and the life I now live in the flesh I + live by faith in the Son of God, [The Latin reads: "by the faith of the + Son of God."] who loved me and gave himself for me. I do not reject the + grace of God; for if justification were through the law, then Christ died + to no purpose," etc. (Gal. 2:20 f.). + + - name: Of Faith and Good Works, and of Their Reward, and of Man's Merit + number: 16 + text: | + + WHAT IS FAITH? Christian faith is not an opinion or human conviction, but + a most firm trust and a clear and steadfast assent of the mind, and then a + most certain apprehension of the truth of God presented in the Scriptures + and in the Apostles' Creed, and thus also of God himself, the greatest + good, and especially of God's promise and of Christ who is the fulfilment + of all promises. + + FAITH IS THE GIFT OF GOD. But this faith is a pure gift of God which God + alone of his grace gives to his elect according to this measure when, to + whom and to the degree he wills. And he does this by the holy Spirit by + means of the preaching of the Gospel and steadfast prayer. + + THE INCREASE OF FAITH. This faith also has its increase, and unless it + were given by God, the apostles would not have said: "Lord, increase our + faith" (Luke 17:5). And all these things which up to this point we have + said concerning faith, the apostles have taught before us. For Paul said: + "For faith is the sure subsistence, of things hoped for, and the clear and + certain apprehension" (Heb. 11:1). And again he says that all the promises + of God are Yes through Christ and through Christ are Amen (2 + Cor. 1:20). And to the Philippians he said that it has been given tothem + to believe in Christ (Phil. 1:29). Again, God assigned to each the measure + of faith (Rom. 12:3). Again: "Not all have faith" and, "Not all obey the + Gospel" (2 Thess. 3:2; Rom. 10:16). But Luke also bears witness, saying: + "As many as were ordained to life believed" (Acts 13:48). Wherefore Paul + also calls faith "the faith of God's elect" (Titus 1:1), and again: "Faith + comes from hearing, and hearing comes by the Word of God" + (Rom. 10:17). Elsewhere he often commands men to pray for faith. + + FAITH EFFICACIOUS AND ACTIVE. The same apostle calls faith efficacious and + active through love (Gal. 5:6). It also quiets the conscience and opens a + free access to God, so that we may draw near to him with confidence and + may obtain from him what is useful and necessary. The same [faith] keeps + us in the service we owe to God and our neighbor, strengthens our patience + in adversity, fashions and makes a true confession, and in a word brings + forth good fruit of all kinds, and good works. + + CONCERNING GOOD WORKS. For we teach that truly good works grow out of a + living faith by the Holy Spirit and are done by the faithful according + tothe will or rule of God's Word. Now the apostle Peter says: "Make every + effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, + and knowledge with self-control," etc.(2 Peter 1:5 ff.). But we have said + above that the law of God, which is his will, prescribes for us the + pattern of good works. And the apostle says: "This is the will of God, + your sanctification, that you abstain form immorality...that no man + transgress, and wrong his brother in business" (1 Thess. 4:3 ff.). + + WORKS OF HUMAN CHOICE. And indeed works and worship which we choose + arbitrarily are not pleasing to God. These Paul calls "self-devised + worship" Col. 2:23. Of such the Lord says in the Gospel: "In vain do they + worship me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men" + (Matt. 15:9). Therefore, we disapprove of such works, and approve and urge + those that are of God's will and commission. + + THE END OF GOOD WORKS. These same works ought not to be done in order that + we may earn eternal life by them, for, as the apostle says, eternal life + is the gift of God. Nor are they to be done for ostentation which the Lord + rejects in Matt., ch. 6, nor for gain which he also rejects in Matt., + ch. 23, but for the glory of God, to adorn our calling, to show gratitude + to God, and for the profit of the neighbor. For our Lord says again in the + Gospel: "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good + works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven" (Matt. 5:16). And + the apostle Paul says: "Lead a life worthy of the calling to which you + have been called" (Eph. 4:1). Also: "And whatever you do, in word or deed, + do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and to + the Fatehr through him" (Col. 3:17), and, "Let each of you look not to his + own interests, but to the interests of others" (Phil. 2:4), and, "Let our + people learn to apply themselves to good deeds, so as to help cases of + urgent need, and not to be unfruitful" (Titus 3;14). + + GOOD WORKS NOT REJECTED. Therefore, although we teach with the apostle + that a man is justified by grace through faith in Christ and not through + any good works, yet we do not think that good works are of little value + and condemn them. We know that man was not created or regenerated through + faith in order to be idle, but rather that without ceasing he should do + those things which are good and useful. For in the Gospel the Lord says + that a good tree brings forth good fruit (Matt. 12:33), and that he who + abides in me bears much fruit (John 15:5). The apostle says: "For we are + his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God + prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them" (Eph. 2:10), and again: + "Who gave himself for us to redeem us from all iniquity and to purify for + himself a people of his own who are zealous for good deeds" (Titus + 2:14). We therefore condemn all who despise good works and who babble that + they are useless and that we do not need to pay attention to them. + + WE ARE NOT SAVED BY GOOD WORKS. Nevertheless, as was said above, we do not + think that we are saved by good works, and that they are so necessary for + salvation that no one was ever saved without them. For we are saved by + grace and the favor of Christ alone. Works necessarily proceed from + faith. And salvation is improperly attributed to them, but is most + properly ascribed to grace. The apostle's sentence is well known: "If it + is by grace, then it is no longer of works; otherwise grace would no + longer be grace. But if it is of works, then it is no longer grace, + because otherwise work is no longer work" (Rom. 11:6). + + GOOD WORKS PLEASE GOD. Now the works which we do by faith are pleasing to + God and are approved by him. Because of faith in Christ, those who do good + works which, moreover, are done from God's grace through the Holy Spirit, + are pleasing to god. For St. Peter said: "In every nation anyone who fears + God and does what is right is acceptable to him" (Acts 10:35). And Paul + said: "We have not ceased to pray for you...that you may walk worthily of + the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work" + (Col. 1:9 f.). + + WE TEACH TRUE, NOT FALSE AND PHILOSOPHICAL VIRTUES. And so we diligently + teach true, not false and philosophical virtues, truly good works, and the + genuine service of a Christian. And as much as we can we diligently and + zealously press them upon all men, while censuring the sloth and Hypocrisy + of all those who praise and profess the Gospel with their lips and + dishonor it by their disgraceful lives. In this matter we place before + them God's terrible threats and then his rich promises and generous + rewards -- exhorting, consoling and rebuking. + + GOD GIVES A REWARD FOR GOOD WORKS. For we teach that God gives a rich + reward to those who do good works, according to that saying of the + prophet: "keep your voice from weeping,...for your work shall be rewarded" + (Jer. 31:16; Isa., ch. 4). The Lord also said in the Gospel: "Rejoice and + be glad, for your reward is great in heaven" (Matt. 5:12), and, "Whoever + gives to one of these my little ones a cup of cold water, truly, I say to + you, he shall not lose his reward" (ch. 10:42). However, we do not ascribe + this reward, which the Lord gives, to the merit of the man who receives + it, but to the goodness, generosity and truthfulness of God who promises + and gives it, and who, although he owes nothing to anyone, nevertheless + promises that he will give a reward to his faithful worshippers; meanwhile + he also gives them that they may honor him. Moreover, in the works even of + the saints there is much that is unworthy of God and very much that is + imperfect. But because God receives into favor and embraces those who do + works for Christ's sake, he grants to them the promised reward. For in + other respects our righteousnesses are compared to a filthy wrap + (Isa. 64:6). And the Lord says in the Gospel: "When you have done all that + is commanded you, say, "We are unworthy servants; we have only done what + was our duty" (Like 17:10). + + THERE ARE NO MERITS OF MEN. Therefore, although we teach that God rewards + our good deeds, yet at the same time we teach, with Augustine, that God + does not crown in us our merits but his gifts. Accordingly we say that + whatever reward we receive is also grace, and is more grace than reward, + because the good we do, we do more through God than through ourselves, and + because Paul says: "What have you that you did not receive? If then you + received it, why do you boast as if you had not received it?" (I + Cor. 4:7). And this is what the blessed martyr Cyprian concluded from this + verse: We are not to glory in anything in us, since nothing is our own. We + therefore condemn those who defend the merits of men in such a way that + they invalidate the grace of God. + + - name: Of The Catholic and Holy Church of God, and of The One Only Head of The Church + number: 17 + text: | + + THE CHURCH HAS ALWAYS EXISTED AND IT WILL ALWAYS EXIST. But because God + from the beginning would have men to be saved, and to come to the + knowledge of the truth (1 Tim. 2:4), it is altogether necessary that there + always should have been, and should be now, and to the end of the world, a + Church. + + WHAT IS THE CHURCH? The Church is an assembly of the faithful called or + gathered out of the world; a communion, I say, of all saints, namely, of + those who truly know and rightly worship and serve the true God in Christ + the Savior, by the Word and holy Spirit, and who by faith are partakers of + all benefits which are freely offered through Christ. + + CITIZENS OF ONE COMMONWEALTH. They are all citizens of the one city, + living under the same Lord, under the same laws and in the same fellowship + of all good things. For the apostle calls them "fellow citizens with the + saints and members of the household of God" (Eph. 2:19), calling the + faithful on earth saints (1 Cor. 4:1), who are sanctified by the blood of + the Son of God. The article of the Creed, "I believe in the holy catholic + Church, the communion of saints," is to be understood wholly as concerning + these saints. + + ONLY ONE CHURCH FOR ALL TIMES. And since there is always but one God, and + there is one mediator between God and men, Jesus the Messiah, and one + Shepherd of the whole flock, one Head of this body, and, to conclude, one + Spirit, one salvation, one faith, one Testament or covenant, it + necessarily follows that there is only one Church. + + THE CATHOLIC CHURCH. We, therefore, call this Church catholic because it + is universal, scattered through all parts of the world, and extended unto + all times, and is not limited to any times or places. Therefore, we + condemn the Donatists who confined the Church to I know not what corners + of Africa. Nor do we approve of the Roman clergy who have recently passed + off only the Roman Church as catholic. + + PARTS OR FORMS OF THE CHURCH. The Church is divided into different parts + or forms; not because it is divided or rent asunder in itself, but rather + because it is distinguished by the diversity of the numbers that are in + it. + + MILITANT AND TRIUMPHANT. For the one is called the Church Militant, the + other the Church Triumphant. The former still wages war on earth, and + fights against the flesh, the world, and the prince of this world, the + devil; against sin and death. But the latter, having been now discharged, + triumphs in heaven immediately after having overcome all those things and + rejoices before the Lord. Notwithstanding both have fellowship and union + one with another. + + THE PARTICULAR CHURCH. Moreover, the Church Militant upon the earth has + always had many particular churches. yet all these are to be referred to + the unity of the catholic Church. This [Militant] Church was set up + differently before the Law among the patriarchs; otherwise under Moses by + the Law; and differently by Christ through the Gospel. + + THE TWO PEOPLES. Generally two peoples are usually counted, namely, the + Israelites and Gentiles, or those who have been gathered from among Jews + and Gentiles into the Church. There are also two Testaments, the Old and + the New. + + THE SAME CHURCH FOR THE OLD AND THE NEW PEOPLE. Yet from all these people + there was and is one fellowship, one salvation in the one Messiah; in + whom, as members of one body under one Head, all united together in the + same faith, partaking also of the same spiritual food and drink. Yet here + we acknowledge a diversity of times, and a diversity in the signs of the + promised and delivered Christ; and that now the ceremonies being + abolished, the light shines unto us more clearly, and blessings are given + to us more abundantly, and a fuller liberty. + + THE CHURCH THE TEMPLE OF THE LIVING GOD. This holy Church of God is called + the temple of the living God, built of living and spiritual stones and + founded upon a firm rock, upon a foundation which no other can lay, and + therefore it is called "the pillar and bulwark of the truth" (I + Tim. 3:15). + + THE CHURCH DOES NOT ERR. It does not err as long as it rests upon the rock + Christ, and upon the foundation of the prophets and apostles. And it is no + wonder if it errs, as often as it deserts him who alone is the truth. + + THE CHURCH AS BRIDE AND VIRGIN. This Church is also called a virgin and + the Bride of Christ, and even the only Beloved. For the apostle says: "I + betrothed you to Christ to present you as a pure bride to Christ" (2 + Cor. 11:2). + + THE CHURCH AS A FLOCK OF SHEEP. The Church is called a flock of sheep + under the one shepherd, Christ, according to Ezek., ch. 34, and John, + ch. 10. + + THE CHURCH AS THE BODY. It is also called the body of Christ because the + faithful are living members of Christ under Christ the Head. + + CHRIST THE SOLE HEAD OF THE CHURCH. It is the head which has the + preeminence in the body, and from it the whole body receives life; by its + spirit the body is governed in all things; from it, also, the body + receives increase, that it may grow up. Also, there is one head of the + body, and it is suited to the body. Therefore the Church cannot have any + other head besides Christ. For as the Church is a spiritual body, so it + must also have a spiritual head in harmony with itself. Neither can it be + governed by any other spirit than by the Spirit of Christ. Wherefore Paul + says: "He is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning, the + firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent" + (Col. 1:18). And in another place: "Christ is the head of the church, his + body, and is himself its Savior" (Eph. 5:23). And again: he is "the head + over all things for the church, which is his body, the fulness of him who + fills all in all" (Eph. 1:22 f.). Also: "We are to grow up in every way + into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined + and knit together, makes bodily growth" (Eph. 4:15 f.). And therefore we + do not approve of the doctrine of the Roman clergy, who make their Pope at + Rome the universal shepherd and supreme head of the Church Militant here + on earth, and so the very vicar of Jesus Christ, who has (as they say) all + fulness of power and sovereign authority in the Church. + + CHRIST THE ONLY PASTOR OF THE CHURCH. For we teach that Christ the Lord + is, and remains the only universal pastor, and highest Pontiff before God + the Father; and that in the Church he himself performs all the duties of a + bishop or pastor, even to the world's end; [Vicar] and therefore does not + need a substitute for one who is absent. For Christ is present with his + Church, and is its life-giving Head. + + NO PRIMACY IN THE CHURCH. He has strictly forbidden his apostles and their + successors to have any primacy and dominion in the Church. Who does not + see, therefore, that whoever contradicts and opposes this plain truth is + rather to be counted among the number of those of whom Christ's apostles + prophesied: Peter in 2 Peter, ch. 2, and Paul in Acts 20:2; 2 Cor. 11:2; + 2 Thess., ch.2, and also in other places? + + NO DISORDER IN THE CHURCH. However, by doing away with a Roman head we do + not bring any confusion or disorder into the Church, since we teach that + the government of the Church which the apostles handed down is sufficient + to keep the Church in proper order, the Church was not disordered or in + confusion. The Roman head does indeed preserve his tyranny and the + corruption that has been brought into the Church, and meanwhile he + hinders, resists, and with all the strength he can muster cuts off the + proper reformation of the Church. + + DISSENSIONS AND STRIFE IN THE CHURCH. We are reproached because there have + been manifold dissensions and strife in our churches since they separated + themselves from the Church of Rome, and therefore cannot be true + churches. As though there were never in the Church of Rome any sects, nor + contentions and quarrels concerning religion, and indeed, carried on not + so much in the schools as from pulpits in the midst of the people. We + know, to be sure, that the apostle said: "God is not a God of confusion + but of peace" (1 Cor. 14:33), and, "While there is jealousy and strife + among you, are you not of the flesh?" Yet we cannot deny that God was in + the apostolic Church and that it was a true Church, even though there were + wranglings and dissensions in it. The apostle Paul reprehended Peter, an + apostle (Gal. 2:11 ff.), and Barnabas dissented from Paul. Great + contention arose in the Church of Antioch between them that preached the + one Christ, as Luke records in The Acts of the Apostles, ch. 15. And there + have at all times been great contentions in the Church, and the most + excellent teachers of the Church have differed among themselves about + important matters without meanwhile the Church ceasing to be the Church + because of these contentions. For thus it pleases God to use the + dissensions that arise in the Church to the glory of his name, to + illustrate the truth, and in order that those who are in the right might + be manifest (1 Cor. 11:19). + + OF THE NOTES OR SIGNS OF THE TRUE CHURCH. Moreover, as we acknowledge no + other head of the Church than Christ, so we do not acknowledge every + church to be the true Church which vaunts herself to be such; but we teach + that the true Church is that in which the signs or marks of the true + Church are to be found, especially the lawful and sincere preaching of the + Word of God as it was delivered to us in the books of the prophets and the + apostles, which all lead us unto Christ, who said in the Gospel: "My sheep + hear me voice, and I know them, and they follow me; and I give unto them + eternal life. A stranger they do not follow, but they flee from him, for + they do not know the voice of strangers" (John 10:5, 27, 28). + + And those who are such in the Church have one faith and one spirit; and + therefore they worship but one God, and him alone they worship in spirit + and in truth, loving him alone with all their hearts and with all their + strength, praying unto him alone through Jesus Christ, the only Mediator + and Intercessor; and they do not seek righteousness and life outside + Christ and faith in him. Because they acknowledge Christ the only head and + foundation of the Church, and, resting on him, daily renew themselves by + repentance, and patiently bear the cross laid upon them. Moreover, joined + together with all the members of Christ by an unfeigned love, they show + that they are Christ's disciples by persevering in the bond of peace and + holy unity. At the same time they participate in the sacraments instituted + by Christ, and delivered unto us by his apostles, using them in no other + way than as they received them from the Lord. That saying of the apostle + Paul is well known to all: "I received from the Lord what I also delivered + to you" (1 Cor. 11:23 ff.). Accordingly, we condemn all such churches as + strangers from the true Church of Christ, which are not such as we have + heard they ought to be, no matter how much they brag of a succession of + bishops, of unity, and of antiquity. Moreover, we have a charge from the + apostles of Christ "to shun the worship of idols" (1 Cor. 10:14; 1 John + 5:21), and "to come out of Babylon," and to have no fellowship with her, + unless we want to be partakers with her of all God's plagues (Rev. 18:4; + 2 Cor. 6:17). + + OUTSIDE THE CHURCH OF GOD THERE IS NO SALVATION. But we esteem fellowship + with the true Church of Christ so highly that we deny that those can live + before God who do not stand in fellowship with the true Church of God, but + separate themselves from it. For as there was no salvation outside Noah's + ark when the world perished in flood; so we believe that there is no + certain salvation outside Christ, who offers himself to be enjoyed by the + elect in the Church; and hence we teach that those who wish to live ought + not to be separated from the true Church of Christ. + + THE CHURCH IS NOT BOUND TO ITS SIGNS. Nevertheless, by the signs [of the + true Church] mentioned above, we do not so narrowly restrict the Church as + to teach that all those are outside the Church who either do not + participate in the sacraments, at least not willingly and through + contempt, but rather, being forced by necessity, unwillingly abstain from + them or are deprived of them; or in whom faith sometimes fails, though it + is not entirely extinguished and does not wholly cease; or in whom + imperfections and errors due to weakness are found. For we know that God + had some friends in the world outside the commonwealth of Israel. We know + what befell the people of God in the captivity of Babylon, where they were + deprived of their sacrifices for seventy years. We know what happened to + St. Peter, who denied his Master, and what is wont to happen daily to + God's elect and faithful people who go astray and are weak. We know, + moreover, what kind of churches the churches in Galatia and Corinth were + in the apostles' time, in which the apostle found fault with many serious + offenses; yet he calls them holy churches of Christ (1 Cor. 1:2; + Gal. 1:2). + + THE CHURCH APPEARS AT TIMES TO BE EXTINCT. Yes, and it sometimes happens + that God in his just judgment allows the truth of his Word, and the + catholic faith, and the proper worship of God to be so obscured and + overthrown that the Church seems almost extinct, and no more to exist, as + we see to have happened in the days of Elijah (1 Kings 19:10, 14), and at + other times. Meanwhile God has in this world and in this darkness his true + worshippers, and those not a few, but even seven thousand and more (I + Kings 19:18; Rev. 7:3 ff.). For the apostle exclaims: "God's firm + foundation stands, bearing this seal, `The Lord knows those who are his,' + " etc. (2 Tim. 2:19). Whence the Church of God may be termed invisible; + not because the men from whom the Church is gathered are invisible, but + because, being hidden from our eyes and known only to God, it often + secretly escapes human judgment. + + NOT ALL WHO ARE IN THE CHURCH ARE OF THE CHURCH. Again, not all that are + reckoned in the number of the Church are saints, and living and true + members of the Church. For there are many hypocrites, who outwardly hear + the Word of God, and publicly receive the sacraments, and seem to pray to + God through Christ alone, to confess Christ to be their only + righteousness, and to worship God, and to exercise the duties of charity, + and for a time to endure with patience in misfortune. And yet they are + inwardly destitute of true illumination of the Spirit, of faith and + sincerity of heart, and of perseverance to the end. But eventually the + character of these men, for the most part, will be disclosed. For the + apostle John says: "They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if + they had been of us, they would indeed have continued with us" (1 John + 2:19). And although while they simulate piety they are not of the Church, + yet they are considered to be in the Church, just as traitors in a state + are numbered among its citizens before they are discovered; and as the + tares or darnel and chaff are found among the wheat, and as swellings and + tumors are found in a sound body, And therefore the Church of God is + rightly compared to a net which catches fish of all kinds, and to a field, + in which both wheat and tares are found (Matt. 13:24 ff., 47 ff.). + + WE MUST NOT JUDGE RASHLY OR PREMATURELY. Hence we must be very careful not + to judge before the time, nor undertake to exclude, reject or cut off + those whom the Lord does not want to have excluded or rejected, and those + whom we cannot eliminate without loss to the Church. On the other hand, we + must be vigilant lest while the pious snore the wicked gain ground and do + harm to the Church. + + THE UNITY OF THE CHURCH IS NOT IN EXTERNAL RITES. Furthermore, we + diligently teach that care is to be taken wherein the truth and unity of + the Church chiefly lies, lest we rashly provoke and foster schisms in the + Church. Unity consists not in outward rites and ceremonies, but rather in + the truth and unity of the catholic faith. The catholic faith is not given + to us by human laws, but by Holy Scriptures, of which the Apostles' Creed + is a compendium. And, therefore, we read in the ancient writers that there + was a manifold diversity of rites, but that they were free, and no one + ever thought that the unity of the Church was thereby dissolved. So we + teach that the true harmony of the Church consists in doctrines and in the + true and harmonious preaching of the Gospel of Christ, and in rites that + have been expressly delivered by the Lord. And here we especially urge + that saying of the apostle: "Let those of us who are perfect have this + mind; and if in any thing you are otherwise minded, God will reveal that + also to you. Nevertheless let us walk by the same rule according to what + we have attained, and let us be of the same mind" (Phil. 3:15 f.). + + - name: Of The Ministers of The Church, Their Institution and Duties + number: 18 + text: | + + GOD USES MINISTERS IN THE BUILDING OF THE CHURCH. God has always used + ministers for the gathering or establishing of a Church for himself, and + for the governing and preservation of the same; and still he does, and + always will, use them so long as the Church remains on earth. Therefore, + the first beginning, institution, and office of ministers is a most + ancient arrangement of God himself, and not a new one of men. + + INSTITUTION AND ORIGIN OF MINISTERS. It is true that God can, by his + power, without any means join to himself a Church from among men; but he + preferred to deal with men by the ministry of men. Therefore ministers are + to be regarded, not as ministers by themselves alone, but as the ministers + of God, inasmuch as God effects the salvation of men through them. + + THE MINISTRY IS NOT TO BE DESPISED. Hence we warn men to beware lest we + attribute what has to do with our conversion and instruction to the secret + power of the Holy Spirit in such a way that we make void the + ecclesiastical ministry. For it is fitting that we always have in mind the + words of the apostle: "How are they to believe in him of whom they have + not heard? And how are they to hear without a preacher? So faith comes + from hearing, and hearing comes by the word of God" (Rom. 10: 14, 17). And + also what the Lord said in the Gospel: "Truly, truly, I say to you, he who + receives any one whom I send receives me; and he who receives me receives + him who sent me" (John 13:20). Likewise a man of Macedonia, who appeared + to Paul in a vision while he was in Asia, secretly admonished him, saying: + "Come over to Macedonia and help us" (Acts 16:9). And in another place the + same apostle said: "We are fellow workmen for God; you are God's tillage, + God's building" (1 Cor. 3:9). + + Yet, on the other hand, we must beware that we do not attribute too much + to ministers and the ministry; remembering here also the words of the Lord + in the Gospel: "No one can come to me unless my Father draws him" (John + 6:44), and the words of the apostle: "What then is Paul? What is Apollos? + Servants through whom you believed, as the Lord assigned to each. I + planted, Apollos watered, but only God gives the growth" (1 Cor. 3:5 ff.). + + GOD MOVES THE HEARTS OF MEN. Therefore, let us believe that God teaches us + by his word, outwardly through his ministers, and inwardly moves the + hearts of his elect to faith by the Holy Spirit; and that therefore we + ought to render all glory unto God for this whole favor. But this matter + has been dealt with in the first chapter of this Exposition. + + WHO THE MINISTERS ARE AND OF WHAT SORT GOD HAS GIVEN TO THE WORLD. And + even from the beginning of the world God has used the most excellent men + in the whole world (even if many of them were simple in worldly wisdom or + philosophy, but were outstanding in true theology), namely, the + patriarchs, with whom he frequently spike by angels. For the patriarchs + were the prophets or teachers of their age whom God for this reason wanted + to live for several centuries, in order that they might be, as it were, + fathers and lights of the world. They were followed by Moses and the + prophets renowned throughout all the world. + + CHRIST THE TEACHER. After these the heavenly Father even sent his + only-begotten Son, the most perfect teacher of the world; in whom is + hidden the wisdom of God, and which has come to us through the most holy, + simple, and most perfect doctrine of all. For he chose disciples for + himself whom he made apostles. These went out into the whole world, and + everywhere gathered together churches by the preaching of the Gospel, and + then throughout all the churches in the world they appointed pastors or + teachers according to Christ's command; through their successors he has + taught and governed the Church unto this day. Therefore, as God gave unto + his ancient people the patriarchs, together with Moses and the prophets, + so also to his people of the New Testament he sent his only-begotten Son, + and, with him, the apostles and teachers of the Church. + + MINISTERS OF THE NEW TESTAMENT. Furthermore, the ministers of the new + people are called by various names. For they are called apostles, + prophets, evangelists, bishops, elders, pastors, and teachers (I + Cor. 12:28; Eph. 4:11). + + THE APOSTLES. The apostles did not stay in any particular place, but + throughout the world gathered together different churches. When they were + once established, there ceased to be apostles, and pastors took their + place, each in his church. + + PROPHETS. In former times the prophets were seers, knowing the future; but + they also interpreted the Scriptures. Such men are also found still today. + + EVANGELISTS. The writers of the history of the Gospel were called + Evangelists; but they also were heralds of the Gospel of Christ; as Paul + also commended Timothy: "Do the work of an evangelist" (2 Tim. 4:5). + + BISHOPS. Bishops are the overseers and watchmen of the Church, who + administer the food and needs of the life of the Church. + + PRESBYTERS. The presbyters are the elders and, as it were, senators and + fathers of the Church, governing it with wholesome counsel. + + PASTORS The pastors both keep the Lord's sheepfold, and also provide for + its needs. + + TEACHERS. The teachers instruct and teach the true faith and + godliness. Therefore, the ministers of the churches may now be called + bishops, elders, pastors, and teachers. + + PAPAL ORDERS. Then in subsequent times many more names of ministers in the + Church were introduced into the Church of God. For some were appointed + patriarchs, others archbishops, others suffragans; also, metropolitans, + archdeacons, deacons, subdeacons, acolytes, exorcists, cantors, porters, + and I know not what others, as cardinals, provosts, and priors; greater + and lesser fathers, greater and lesser orders. But we are not troubled + about all these about how they once were and are now. For us the apostolic + doctrine concerning ministers is sufficient. + + CONCERNING MONKS. Since we assuredly know that monks, and the orders or + sects of monks, are instituted neither by Christ nor by the apostles, we + teach that they are of no use to the Church of God, nay rather, are + pernicious. For, although in former times they were tolerable (when they + were hermits, earning their living with their own hands, and were not a + burden to anyone, but like the laity were everywhere obedient to the + pastors of the churches), yet now the whole world sees and knows what they + are like. They formulate I know not what vows; but they lead a life quite + contrary to their vows, so that the best of them deserves to be numbered + among those of whom the apostle said: "We hear that some of you are living + an irregular life, mere busybodies, not doing any work" etc. (2 + Thess. 3:11). Therefore, we neither have such in our churches, nor do we + teach that they should be in the churches of Christ. + + MINISTERS ARE TO BE CALLED AND ELECTED. Furthermore, no man ought to usurp + the honor of the ecclesiastical ministry; that is, to seize it for himself + by bribery or any deceits, or by his own free choice. But let the + ministers of the Church be called and chosen by lawful and ecclesiastical + election; that is to say, let them be carefully chosen by the Church or by + those delegated from the Church for that purpose in a proper order without + any uproar, dissension and rivalry. Not any one may be elected, but + capable men distinguished by sufficient consecrated learning, pious + eloquence, simple wisdom, lastly, by moderation and an honorable + reputation, according to that apostolic rule which is compiled by the + apostle in 1 Tim., ch. 3, and Titus, ch. 1. + + ORDINATION. And those who are elected are to be ordained by the elders + with public prayer and laying on of hands. Here we condemn all those who + go off of their own accord, being nether chosen, sent, nor ordained (Jer., + ch. 23). We condemn unfit ministers and those not furnished with the + necessary gifts of a pastor. + + In the meantime we acknowledge that the harmless simplicity of some + pastors in the primitive Church sometimes profited the Church more than + the many-sided, refined and fastidious, but a little too esoteric learning + of others. For this reason we do not reject even today the honest, yet by + no means ignorant, simplicity of some. + + PRIESTHOOD OF ALL BELIEVERS. To be sure, Christ's apostles call all who + believe in Christ "priests," but not on account of an office, but because, + all the faithful having been made kings and priests, we are able to offer + up a spiritual sacrifices to God through Christ (Ex. 19:6; 1 Peter 2:9; + Rev. 1:6). Therefore, the priesthood and the ministry are very different + from one another. For the priesthood, as we have just said, is common to + all Christians; not so is the ministry. Nor have we abolished the ministry + of the Church because we have repudiated the papal priesthood from the + Church of Christ. + + PRIESTS AND PRIESTHOOD. Surely in the new covenant of Christ there is no + longer any such priesthood as was under the ancient people; which had an + external anointing, holy garments, and very many ceremonies which were + types of Christ, who abolished them all by this coming and fulfilling + them. But he himself remains the only priest forever, and lest we derogate + anything form him, we do not impart the name of priest to any + minister. For the Lord himself did not appoint any priests in the Church + of the New Testament who, having received authority from the suffragan, + may daily offer up the sacrifice that is, the very flesh and blood of the + Lord, for the living and the dead, but ministers who may teach and + administer the sacraments. + + THE NATURE OF THE MINISTERS OF THE NEW TESTAMENT. Paul explains simply and + briefly what we are to think of the ministers of the New Testament or of + the Christian Church, and what we are to attribute to them. "This is how + one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries + of God" 2 Cor. 4:1). Therefore, the apostle wants us to think of + ministers as ministers. Now the apostle calls them rowers, who have their + eyes fixed on the coxswain, and so men who do not live for themselves or + according to their own will, but for others--namely, their masters, upon + whose command they altogether depend. For in all his duties every minister + of the Church is commanded to carry out only what he has received in + commandment from his Lord, and not to indulge his own free choice. And in + this case it is expressly declared who is the Lord, namely, Christ; to + whom the ministers are subject in all the affairs of the ministry. + + MINISTERS AS STEWARDS OF THE MYSTERIES OF GOD. Moreover, to the end that + he might expound the ministry more fully, the apostle adds that ministers + of the Church are administrators and stewards of the mysteries of God. Now + in may passages, especially in Eph., ch. 3, Paul called the mysteries of + God the Gospel of Christ. And the sacraments of Christ are also called + mysteries by the ancient writers. Therefore for this purpose are the + ministers of the Church called--namely, to preach the Gospel of Christ to + the faithful, and to administer the sacraments. We read, also, in another + place in the Gospel, of "the faithful and wise steward," whom "his master + will set over his household, to give them their portion of food at the + proper time" (Luke 12:42). Again, elsewhere in the Gospel a man takes a + journey in a foreign country and, leaving his house, gives his substance + and authority over it to his servants, and to each his work. + + THE POWER OF MINISTERS OF THE CHURCH. Now, therefore, it is fitting that + we also say something about the power and duty of the ministers of the + Church. Concerning this power some have argued industriously, and to it + have subjected everything on earth, even the greatest things, and they + have done so contrary to the commandment of the Lord who has prohibited + dominion for this disciples and has highly commended humility (Luke 22:24 + ff.; Matt. 18:3 f.; 20:25 ff.). There is, indeed, another power that is + pure and absolute, which is called the power of right. According to this + power all things in the whole world are subject to Christ, who is Lord of + all, as he himself has testified when he said: "All authority in heaven + and on earth has been given to me" (Matt. 28:18), and again, "I am the + first and the last, and behold I am alive for evermore, and I have the + keys of Hades and Death" (Rev. 1:18); also, "He has the key of David, + which opens and no one shall shut, who shuts and no one opens" (Rev. 3:7). + + THE LORD RESERVES TRUE POWER FOR HIMSELF. This power the Lord reserves to + himself, and does not transfer it to any other, so that he might stand + idly by as a spectator while his ministers work. For Isaiah says, "I will + place on his shoulder the key of the house of David" (Isa. 22:22), and + again, "The government will be upon his shoulders, but still keeps and + uses his own power, governing all things. + + THE POWER OF THE OFFICE AND OF THE MINISTER. Then there is another power + of an office or of ministry limited by him who has full and absolute + power. And this is more like a service than a dominion. + + THE KEYS. For a lord gives up his power to the steward in his house, and + for that cause gives him the keys, that he may admit into or exclude from + the house those whom his lord will have admitted or excluded. In virtue of + this power the minister, because of his office, does that which the Lord + has commanded him to do; and the Lord confirms what he does, and wills + that what his servant has done will be so regarded and acknowledges, as if + he himself had done it. Undoubtedly, it is to this that these evangelical + sentences refer: "I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and + whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you + loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven" (Matt. 16:19). Again, "If you + forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, + they are retained" (John 20:23). But if the minister does not carry out + everything as the Lord has commanded him, but transgresses the bounds of + faith, then the Lord certainly makes void what he has done. Wherefore the + ecclesiastical power of the ministers of the Church is that function + whereby they indeed govern the Church of God, but yet se do all things in + the Church as the Lord has prescribed in his Word. When those things are + done, the faithful esteem them as done by the Lord himself. But mention + has already been made of the keys above. + + THE POWER OF MINISTERS IS ONE AND THE SAME, AND EQUAL. Now the one and an + equal power or function is given to all ministers in the + Church. Certainly, in the beginning, the bishops or presbyters governed + the Church in common; no man lifted up himself above another, none usurped + greater power or authority over his fellow-bishops. For remembering the + words of the Lord: "Let the leader among you become as one who serves" + (Luke 22:26), they kept themselves in humility, and by mutual services + they helped one another in the governing and preserving of the Church. + + ORDER TO BE PRESERVED. Nevertheless, for the sake of preserving order some + one of the ministers called the assembly together, proposed matters to be + laid before it, gathered the opinions of the others, in short, to the best + of man's ability took precaution lest any confusion should arise. Thus did + St. Peter, as we read in The Acts of the Apostles, who nevertheless was + not on that account preferred to the others, nor endowed with greater + authority than the rest. Rightly then does Cyprian the Martyr say, in his + De Simplicitate Clericorum: "The other apostles were assuredly what Peter + was, endowed with a like fellowship of honor and power; but [his] primacy + proceeds from unity in order that the Church may be shown to be one." + + WHEN AND HOW ONE WAS PLACED BEFORE THE OTHERS. St. Jerome also in his + commentary upon The Epistle of Paul to Titus, says something not unlike + this: "Before attachment to persons in religion was begun at the + instigation of the devil, the churches were governed by the common + consultation of the elders; but after every one thought that those whom he + had baptized were his own, and not Christ's, it was decreed that one of + the elders should be chosen, and set over the rest, upon whom should fall + the care of the whole Church, and all schismatic seeds should be removed." + Yet St. Jerome does not recommend this decree as divine; for he + immediately adds: "As the elders knew from the custom of the Church that + they were subject to him who was set over them, so the bishops knew that + they were subject to him who was set over them, so the bishops knew that + they were above the elders, more from custom than from the truth of an + arrangement by the Lord, and that they ought to rule the Church in common + with them." Thus far St. Jerome. Hence no one can rightly forbid a return + to the ancient constitution of the Church of God, and to have recourse to + it before human custom. + + THE DUTIES OF MINISTERS. The duties of ministers are various; yet for the + most part they are restricted to two, in which all the rest are + comprehended: to the teaching of the Gospel of Christ, and to the proper + administration of the sacraments. For it is the duty of the ministers to + gather together an assembly for worship in which to expound God's Word and + to apply the whole doctrine to the care and use of the Church, so that + what is taught may benefit the hearers and edify the faithful It falls to + ministers, I say, to teach the ignorant, and to exhort; and to urge the + idlers and lingerers to make progress in the way of the Lord. Moreover, + they are to comfort and to strengthen the fainthearted, and to arm them + against the manifold temptations of Satan; to rebuke offenders; to recall + the erring into the way; to raise the fallen; to convince the gainsayers + to drive the wolf away from the sheepfold of the Lord; to rebuke + wickedness and wicked men wisely and severely; no to wink at nor to pass + over great wickedness. And, besides, they are to administer the + sacraments, and to commend the right use of them, and to prepare all men + by wholesome doctrine to receive them; to preserve the faithful in a holy + unity; and to check schisms; to catechize the unlearned, to commend the + needs of the poor to the Church, to visit, instruct, and keep in the way + of life the sick and those afflicted with various temptations. In + addition, they are to attend to public prayers of supplications in times + of need, together with common fasting, that is, a holy abstinence; and as + diligently as possible to see to everything that pertains to the + tranquility, peace and welfare of the churches. + + But in order that the minister may perform all these things better and + more easily, it is especially required of him that he fear God, be + constant in prayer, attend to spiritual reading, and in all things and at + all times be watchful, and by a purity of life to let his light to shine + before all men. + + DISCIPLINE. And since discipline is an absolute necessity in the Church + and excommunication was once used in the time of the early fathers, and + there were ecclesiastical judgments among the people of God, wherein this + discipline was exercised by wise and godly men, it also falls to ministers + to regulate this discipline for edification, according to the + circumstances of the time, public state, and necessity. At all times and + in all places the tule is to be observed that everything is to be done for + edification, decently and honorably, without oppression and strife. For + the apostle testifies that authority in the Church was given to him by the + Lord for building up and not for destroying (2 Cor. 10:8). And the Lord + himself forbade the weeds to be plucked up in the Lord's field, because + there would be danger lest the wheat also be plucked up with it + (Matt. 13:29 f.). + + EVEN EVIL MINISTERS ARE TO BE HEARD. Moreover, we strongly detest the + error of the Donatists who esteem the doctrine and administration of the + sacraments to be either effectual or not effectual, according to the good + or evil life of the ministers. For we know that the voice of Christ is to + be heard, though it be out of the mouths of evil ministers; because the + Lord himself said: "Practice and observe whatever they tell you, but not + what they do" (Matt. 23:3). We know that the sacraments are sanctified by + the institution and the word of Christ, and that they are effectual to the + godly, although they be administered by unworthy ministers. Concerning + this matter, Augustine, the blessed servant of God, many times argued from + the Scriptures against the Donatists. + + SYNODS. Nevertheless, there ought to be proper discipline among + ministers. In synods the doctrine and life of ministers is to be carefully + examined. Offenders who can be cured are to be rebuked by the elders and + restored to the right way, and if they are incurable, they are to be + deposed, and like wolves driven away from he flock of the Lord by the true + shepherds. For, if they be false teachers, they are not to be tolerated at + all. Neither do we disapprove of ecumenical councils, if they are convened + according to the example of the apostles, for the welfare of the Church + and not for its destruction. + + THE WORKER IS WORTHY OF HIS REWARD. All faithful ministers, as good + workmen, are also worthy of their reward, and do not sin when they receive + a stipend, and all things that be necessary for themselves and their + family. For the apostle shows in 1 Cor., ch. 9, and in 1 Tim., ch. 5, and + elsewhere that these things may rightly be given by the Church and + received by ministers. The Anabaptists, who condemn and defame ministers + who live from their ministry are also refuted by the apostolic teaching. + + - name: Of the Sacraments of the Church of Christ + number: 19 + text: | + + THE SACRAMENTS [ARE] ADDED TO THE WORD AND WHAT THEY ARE. From the + beginning, God added to the preaching of his Word in his Church sacraments + or sacramental signs. For thus does all Holy Scripture clearly + testify. Sacraments are mystical symbols, or holy rites, or sacred + actions, instituted by God himself, consisting of his Word, of signs and + of things signified, whereby in the Church he keeps in mind and from time + to time recalls the great benefits he has shown to men; whereby also he + seals his promises, and outwardly represents, and, as it were, offers unto + our sight those things which inwardly he performs for us, and so + strengthens and increases our faith through the working of God's Spirit in + our hearts. Lastly, he thereby distinguishes us from all other people and + religions, and consecrates and binds us wholly to himself, and signifies + what he requires of us. + + SOME ARE SACRAMENTS OF THE OLD, OTHERS OF THE NEW, TESTAMENTS. Some + sacraments are of the old, others of the new, people. The sacraments of + the ancient people were circumcision, and the Paschal Lamb, which was + offered up; for that reason it is referred to the sacrifices which were + practiced from the beginning of the world. + + THE NUMBER OF SACRAMENTS OF THE NEW PEOPLE. The sacraments of the new + people are Baptism and the Lord's Supper. There are some who count seven + sacraments of the new people. Of these we acknowledge that repentance. the + ordination of ministers (not indeed the papal but apostolic ordination), + and matrimony are profitable ordinances of God, but not + sacraments. Confirmation and extreme unction are human inventions which + the Church can dispense with without any loss, and indeed, we do not have + them in our churches. For they contain some things of which we can by no + means approve. Above all we detest all the trafficking in which the + Papists engage in dispensing the sacraments. + + THE AUTHOR OF THE SACRAMENTS. The author of all sacraments is not any man, + but God alone. Men cannot institute sacraments. For they pertain to the + worship of God, and it is not for man to appoint and prescribe a worship + of God, but to accept and preserve the one he has received from + God. Besides, the symbols have God's promises annexed to them, which + require faith. Now faith rests only upon the Word of God; and the Word of + God is like papers or letters, and the sacraments are like seals which + only God appends to the letters. + + CHRIST STILL WORKS IN SACRAMENTS. And as God is the author of the + sacraments, so he continually works in the Church in which they are + rightly carried out; so that the faithful, when they receive them from the + ministers, know that God works in his own ordinance, and therefore they + receive them as from the hand of God; and the minister's faults (even if + they be very great) cannot affect them, since they acknowledge the + integrity of the sacraments to depend upon the institution of the Lord. + + THE SUBSTANCE OR CHIEF THING IN THE SACRAMENTS. But the principal thing + which God promises in all sacraments and to which all the godly in all + ages direct their attention (some call it the substance and matter of + sacraments) is Christ the Savior -- that only sacrifice, and that Lamb of + God slain from the foundation of the world; that rock, also, from which + all our fathers drank, by whom all the elect are circumcised without hands + through the Holy Spirit, and are washed from all their sins, and are + nourished with the very body and blood of Christ unto eternal life. + + THE SIMILARITY AND DIFFERENCE IN THE SACRAMENTS OF OLD AND NEW + PEOPLES. Now, in respect of that which is the principal thing and the + matter itself in the sacraments, the sacraments of both peoples are + equal. For Christ, the only Mediator and Savior of the faithful, is the + chief thing and very substance of the sacraments in both; for the one God + is the author of them both. They were given to both peoples as signs and + seals of the grace and promises of God, which should call to mind and + renew the memory of God's great benefits, and should distinguish the + faithful from all the religions in the world; lastly, which should be + received spiritually by faith, and should bind the receivers to the + Church, and admonish them of their duty. In these and similar respects, I + say, the sacraments of both peoples are not dissimilar, although in the + outward signs they are different. And, indeed, with respect to the signs + we make a great difference. For ours are more firm and lasting, inasmuch + as they will never be changed to the end of the world. Moreover, ours + testify that both the substance and the promise have been fulfilled or + perfected in Christ; the former signified what was to be fulfilled. Ours + are also more simple and less laborious, less sumptuous and involved with + ceremonies. Moreover, they belong to a more numerous people. one that is + dispersed throughout the whole earth. And since they are more excellent, + and by the Holy Spirit kindle greater faith, a greater abundance of the + Spirit also ensues. + + OUR SACRAMENTS SUCCEED THE OLD WHICH ARE ABROGATED. But now since Christ + the true Messiah is exhibited unto us, and the abundance of grace is + poured forth upon the people of The New Testament, the sacraments of the + old people are surely abrogated and have ceased; and in their stead the + symbols of the New Testament are placed -- Baptism in the place of + circumcision, the Lord's Supper in place of the Paschal Lamb and + sacrifices. + + IN WHAT THE SACRAMENTS CONSIST. And as formerly the sacraments consisted + of the word, the sign, and the thing signified; so even now they are + composed, as it were, of the same parts. For the Word of God makes them + sacraments, which before they were not. + + THE CONSECRATION OF THE SACRAMENTS. For they are consecrated by the Word, + and shown to be sanctified by him who instituted them. To sanctify or + consecrate anything to God is to dedicate it to holy uses; that is, to + take it from the common and ordinary use, and to appoint it to a holy + use. For the signs in the sacraments are drawn from common use, things + external and visible. For in baptism the sign is the element of water, and + that visible washing which is done by the minister; but the thing + signified is regeneration and the cleansing from sins. Likewise, in the + Lord's Supper, the outward sign is bread and wine, taken from things + commonly used for meat and drink; but the thing signified is the body of + Christ which was given, and his blood which was shed for us, or the + communion of the body and blood of the Lord. Wherefore, the water, bread, + and wine, according to their nature and apart from the divine institution + and sacred use, are only that which they are called and we experience. But + when the Word of God is added to them, together with invocation of the + divine name, and the renewing of their first institution and + sanctification, then these signs are consecrated, and shown to be + sanctified by Christ. For Christ's first institution and consecration of + the sacraments remains always effectual in the Church of God, so that + these who do not celebrate the sacraments in any other way than the Lord + himself instituted from the beginning still today enjoy that first and + all-surpassing consecration. And hence in the celebration of the + sacraments the very words of Christ are repeated. + + SIGNS TAKE NAME OF THINGS SIGNIFIED. And as we learn out of the Word of + God that these signs were instituted for another purpose than the usual + use, therefore we teach that they now, in their holy use, take upon them + the names of things signified, and are no longer called mere water, bread + or wine, but also regeneration or the washing of water, and the body and + blood of the Lord or symbols and sacraments of the Lord's body and + blood. Not that the symbols are changed into the things signified, or + cease to be what they are in their own nature. For otherwise they world + not be sacraments. If they were only the thing signified, they would not + be signs. + + THE SACRAMENTAL UNION. Therefore the signs acquire the names of things + because they are mystical signs of sacred things, and because the signs + and the things signified are sacramentally joined together; joined + together, I say, or united by a mystical signification, and by the purpose + or will of him who instituted the sacraments. For the water, bread, and + wine are not common, but holy signs. And he that instituted water in + baptism did not institute it with the will and intention that the faithful + should only be sprinkled by the water of baptism; and he who commanded the + bread to be eaten and the wine to be drunk in the supper did not want the + faithful to receive only bread and wine without any mystery as they eat + bread in their homes; but that they should spiritually partake of the + things signified, and by faith be truly cleansed from their sins, and + partake of Christ. + + THE SECTS. And, therefore, we do not at all approve of those who attribute + the sanctification of the sacraments to I know not what properties and + formula or to the power of words pronounced by one who is consecrated and + who has the intention of consecrating, and to other accidental things + which neither Christ or the apostles delivered to us by word or + example. Neither do we approve of the doctrine of those who speak of the + sacraments just as common signs, not sanctified and effectual. Nor do we + approve of those who despise the visible aspect of the sacraments because + of the invisible, and so believe the signs to be superfluous because they + think they already enjoy the things themselves, as the Messalians are said + to have held. + + THE THING SIGNIFIED IS NEITHER INCLUDED IN OR BOUND TO THE SACRAMENTS. We + do not approve of the doctrine of those who teach that grace and the + things signified are so bound to and included in the signs that whoever + participate outwardly in the signs, no matter what sort of persons they + be, also inwardly participate in the grace and things signified. + + However, as we do not estimate the value of the sacraments by the + worthiness or unworthiness of the ministers, so we do not estimate it by + the condition of those who receive them. For we know that the value of the + sacraments depends upon faith and upon the truthfulness and pure goodness + of God. For as the Word of God remains the true Word of God, in which, + when it is preached, not only bare words are repeated, but at the same + time the things signified or announced in words are offered by God, even + if the ungodly and unbelievers hear and understand the words yet do not + enjoy the things signified, because they do not receive them by true + faith; so the sacraments, which by the Word consist of signs and the + things signified, remain true and inviolate sacraments, signifying not + only sacred things, but, by God offering, the things signified, even if + unbelievers do not receive the things offered. This is not the fault of + God who gives and offers them, but the fault of men who receive them + without faith and illegitimately; but whose unbelief does not invalidate + the faithfulness of God (Rom. 3:3 f.). + + THE PURPOSE FOR WHICH SACRAMENTS WERE INSTITUTED. Since the purpose for + which sacraments were instituted was also explained in passing when right + at the beginning of our exposition it was shown what sacraments are, there + is no need to be tedious by repeating what once has been said. Logically, + therefore, we now speak severally of the sacraments of the new people. + + - name: Of Holy Baptism + number: 20 + text: | + + THE INSTITUTION OF BAPTISM. Baptism was instituted and consecrated by + God. First John baptized, who dipped Christ in the water in Jordan. From + him it came to the apostles, who also baptized with water. The Lord + expressly commanded them to preach the Gospel and to baptize "in the name + of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" (Matt. 28:19). And in + The Acts, Peter said to the Jews who inquired what they ought to do: "Be + baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness + of your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit" (Acts + 2:37 f.). Hence by some baptism is called a sign of initiation for God's + people, since by it the elect of God are consecrated to God. + + ONE BAPTISM. There is but one baptism in the Church of God; and it is + sufficient to be once baptized or consecrated unto God. For baptism once + received continues for all of life, and is a perpetual sealing of our + adoption. + + WHAT IT MEANS TO BE BAPTIZED. Now to be baptized in the name of Christ is + to be enrolled, entered, and received into the covenant and family, and so + into the inheritance of the sons of God; yes, and in this life to be + called after the name of God; that is to say, to be called a son of God; + to be cleansed also from the filthiness of sins, and to be granted the + manifold grace of God, in order to lead a new and innocent life. Baptism, + therefore, calls to mind and renews the great favor God has shown to the + race of mortal men. For we are all born in the pollution of sin and are + the children of wrath. But God, who is rich in mercy, freely cleanses us + from our sins by the blood of his Son, and in him adopts us to be his + sons, and by a holy covenant joins us to himself, and enriches us with + various gifts, that we might live a new life. All these things are assured + by baptism. For inwardly we are regenerated, purified, and renewed by God + through the Holy Spirit and outwardly we receive the assurance of the + greatest gifts in the water, by which also those great benefits are + represented, and, as it were, set before our eyes to be beheld. + + WE ARE BAPTIZED WITH WATER. And therefore we are baptized, that is, washed + or sprinkled with visible water. For the water washes dirt away, and cools + and refreshes hot and tired bodies. And the grace of God performs these + things for souls, and does so invisibly or spiritually. + + THE OBLIGATION OF BAPTISM. Moreover, God also separates us from all + strange religions and peoples by the symbol of baptism, and consecrates us + to himself as his property. We, therefore, confess our faith when we are + baptized, and obligate ourselves to God for obedience, mortification of + the flesh, and newness of life. Hence, we are enlisted in the holy + military service of Christ that all our life long we should fight against + the world, Satan, and our own flesh. Moreover, we are baptized into one + body of the Church, that with all members of the Church we might + beautifully concur in the one religion and in mutual services. + + THE FORM OF BAPTISM. We believe that the most perfect form of baptism is + that by which Christ was baptized, and by which the apostles + baptized. Those things, therefore, which by man's device were added + afterwards and used in the Church we do not consider necessary to the + perfection of baptism. Of this kind is exorcism, the use of burning + lights, oil, salt, spittle, and such other things as that baptism is to be + celebrated twice every year with a multitude of ceremonies. For we believe + that one baptism of the Church has been sanctified in God's first + institution, and that it is consecrated by the Word and is also effectual + today in virtue of God's first blessing. + + THE MINISTER OF BAPTISM. We teach that baptism should not be administered + in the Church by women or midwives. For Paul deprived women of + ecclesiastical duties, and baptism has to do with these. + + ANABAPTISTS. We condemn the Anabaptists, who deny that newborn infants of + the faithful are to be baptized. For according to evangelical teaching, of + such is the Kingdom of God, and they are in the covenant of God. Why, + then, should the sign of God's covenant not be given to them? Whey should + those who belong to God and are in his Church not be initiated by holy + baptism? We condemn also the Anabaptists in the rest of their peculiar + doctrines which they hold contrary to the Word of God. We therefore are + not Anabaptists and have nothing in common with them. + + - name: Of the Holy Supper of the Lord + number: 21 + text: | + + THE SUPPER OF THE LORD. The Supper of the Lord (which is called the Lord's + Table, and the Eucharist, that is, a Thanksgiving), is, therefore, usually + called a supper, because it was instituted by Christ at this last supper, + and still represents it, and because in it the faithful are spiritually + fed and given drink. + + THE AUTHOR AND CONSECRATOR OF THE SUPPER. For the author of the Supper of + the Lord is not an angel or any man, but the Son of God himself, our Lord + Jesus Christ, who first consecrated it to his Church. And the same + consecration or blessing still remains among all those who celebrate no + other but that very Supper which the Lord instituted, and at which they + repeat the words of the Lord's Supper, and in all things look to the one + Christ by a true faith, from whose hands they receive, as it were, what + they receive through the ministry of the ministers of the Church. + + A MEMORIAL OF GOD'S BENEFITS. By this sacred rite the Lord wishes to keep + in fresh remembrance that greatest benefit which he showed to mortal men, + namely, that by having given his body and shed his blood he has pardoned + all our sins, and redeemed us from eternal death and the power of the + devil, and now feeds us with his flesh, and gives us his blood to drink, + which, being received spiritually by true faith, nourish us to eternal + life. And this so great a benefit is renewed as often as the Lord's Supper + is celebrated. For the Lord said: "Do this in remembrance of me." This + holy Supper also seals to us that the very body of Christ was truly given + for us, and his blood shed for the remission of our sins, lest our faith + should in any way waver. + + THE SIGN AND THING SIGNIFIED. And this is visibly represented by this + sacrament outwardly through the ministers, and, as it were, presented to + out eyes to be seen, which is invisibly wrought by the Holy Spirit + inwardly in the soul. Bread is outwardly offered by the minister, and the + words of the Lord are heard: "Take, eat; this is my body"; and, "Take and + divide among you. Drink of it, all of you; this is my blood." Therefore + the faithful receive what is given by the ministers of the Lord, and they + eat the bread of the Lord and drink of the Lord's cup. At the same time by + the work of Christ through the Holy Spirit they also inwardly receive the + flesh and blood of the Lord, and are thereby nourished unto life + eternal. For the flesh and blood of Christ is the true food and drink unto + life eternal; and Christ himself, since he was given for us and is our + Savior, is the principal thing in the Supper, and we do not permit + anything else to be substituted in his place. + + But in order to understand better and more clearly how the flesh and blood + of Christ are the food and drink of the faithful, and are received by the + faithful unto eternal life, we would add these few things. There is more + than one kind of eating. There is corporeal eating whereby food is taken + into the mouth, is chewed with the teeth, and swallowed into the + stomach. In times past the Capernaites thought that the flesh of the Lord + should be eaten in this way, but they are refuted by him in John, + ch. 6. For as the flesh of Christ cannot be eaten corporeally without + infamy and savagery, so it is not food for the stomach. All men are forced + to admit this. We therefore disapprove of that canon in the Pope's + decrees, Ego Berengarius (De Consecrat., Dist. 2). For neither did godly + antiquity believe, nor do we believe, that the body of Christ is to be + eaten corporeally and essentially with a bodily mouth. + + SPIRITUAL EATING OF THE LORD. There is also a spiritual eating of Christ's + body; not such that we think that thereby the food itself is to be changed + into spirit, but whereby the body and blood of the Lord, while remaining + in their own essence and property, are spiritually communicated to us, + certainly not in a corporeal but in a spiritual way, by the Holy Spirit, + who applies and bestows upon us these things which have been prepared for + us by the sacrifice of the Lord's body and blood for us, namely, the + remission of sins, deliverance, and eternal life; so that Christ lives in + us and we live in him, and he causes us to receive him by true faith to + this end that he may become for us such spiritual food and drink, that is, + our life. + + CHRIST AS OUR FOOD SUSTAINS US IN LIFE. For even as bodily food and drink + not only refresh and strengthen our bodies, but also keeps them alive, so + the flesh of Christ delivered for us, and his blood shed for us, not only + refresh and strengthen our souls, but also preserve them alive, not in so + far as they are corporeally eaten and drunken, but in so far as they are + communicated unto us spiritually by the Spirit of God, as the Lord said: + "The bread which I shall give for the life of the world is my flesh (John + 6:51), and "the flesh" (namely what is eaten bodily) "is of no avail; it + is the spirit that gives life" (v. 63). And: "The words that I have spoken + to you are spirit and life." + + CHRIST RECEIVED BY FAITH. And as we must by eating receive food into our + bodies in order that it may work in us, and prove its efficacy in us -- + since it profits us nothing when it remains outside us -- so it is + necessary that we receive Christ by faith, that he may become ours, and he + may live in us and we in him. For he says: "I am the bread of life; he who + comes to me shall not hunger, and he who believes in me shall never + thirst" (John 6:35); and also, "He who eats me will live because of + me...he abides in me, I in him" (vs. 57, 56). + + SPIRITUAL FOOD. From all this it is clear that by spiritual food we do not + mean some imaginary food I know not what but the very body of the Lord + given to us, which nevertheless is received by the faithful not + corporeally, but spiritually by faith. In this matter we follow the + teaching of the Savior himself, Christ the Lord, according to John, ch. 6. + + EATING NECESSARY FOR SALVATION. And this eating of the flesh and drinking + of the blood of the Lord is so necessary for salvation that without it no + man can be saved. But this spiritual eating and drinking also occurs apart + from the Supper of the Lord, and as often and wherever a man believes in + Christ. To which that sentence of St. Augustine's perhaps applies: "Why do + you provide for your teeth and your stomach? Believe, and you have eaten." + + SACRAMENTAL EATING OF THE LORD. Besides the higher spiritual eating there + is also a sacramental eating of the body of the Lord by which not only + spiritually and internally the believer truly participates in the true + body and blood of the Lord, but also, by coming to the Table of the Lord, + outwardly receives the visible sacrament of the body and blood of the + Lord. To be sure, when the believer believed, he first received the + life-giving food, and still enjoys it. But therefore, when he now received + the sacrament, he does not received nothing. For he progresses in + continuing to communicate in the body and blood of the Lord, and so his + faith is kindle and grows more and more, and is refreshed by spiritual + food. For while we live, faith is continually increased. And he who + outwardly receives the sacrament by true faith, not only receives the + sign, but also, as we said, enjoys the thing itself. Moreover, he obeys + the Lord's institution and commandment, and with a joyful mind gives + thanks for his redemption and that of all mankind, and makes a faithful + memorial to the Lord's death, and gives a witness before the Church, of + whose body he is a member. Assurance is also given to those who receive + the sacrament that the body of the Lord was given and his blood shed, not + only for men in general, but particularly for every faithful communicant, + to whom it is food and drink unto eternal life. + + UNBELIEVERS TAKE THE SACRAMENT TO THEIR JUDGMENT. But he who comes to this + sacred Table of the Lord without faith, communicates only in the sacrament + and does not receive the substance of the sacrament whence comes life and + salvation; and such men unworthily eat of the Lord's Table. Whoever eats + the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be + guilty of the body and blood of the Lord, and eats and drinks judgment + upon himself (1 Cor. 11:26-29). For when they do not approach with true + faith, they dishonor the death of Christ, and therefore eat and drink + condemnation to themselves. + + THE PRESENCE OF CHRIST IN THE SUPPER. We do not, therefore, so join the + body of the Lord and his blood with the bread and wine as to say that the + bread itself is the body of Christ except in a sacramental way; or that + the body of Christ is hidden corporeally under the bread, so that it ought + to be worshipped under the form of bread; or yet that whoever receives the + sign, receives also the thing itself. The body of Christ is in heaven at + the right hand of the Father; and therefore our hearts are to be lifted up + on high, and not to be fixed on the bread, neither is the Lord to be + worshipped in the bread. Yet the Lord is not absent from his Church when + she celebrates the Supper. The sun, which is absent from us in the + heavens, is notwithstanding effectually present among us. How much more is + the Sun of Righteousness, Christ, although in his body he is absent from + us in heaven, present with us, not corporeally, but spiritually, by his + vivfying operation, and as he himself explained at his Last Supper that he + world be present with us (John, chs. 14; 15; and 16). Whence it follows + that we do not have the Supper without Christ, and yet at the same time + have an unbloody and mystical Supper, as it was universally called by + antiquity. + + OTHER PURPOSES OF THE LORD'S SUPPERS. Moreover, we are admonished in the + celebration of the Supper of the Lord to be mindful of whose body we have + become members, and that, therefore, we may be of one mind with all the + brethren, live a holy life, and not pollute ourselves with wickedness and + strange religions; but, perservering in the true faith to the end of our + life, strive to excel in holiness of life. + + PREPARATION FOR THE SUPPER. It is therefore fitting that when we would + come to the Supper, we first examine ourselves according to the + commandment of the apostle, especially as to the kind of faith we have, + whether we believe that Christ has come to save sinners and to call them + to repentance, and whether each man believes that he is in the number of + those who have been delivered by Christ and saved; and whether he is + determined to change his wicked life, to lead a holy life, and with the + Lord's help to persevere in the true religion and in harmony with the + brethren, and to give due thanks to God for his deliverance. + + THE OBSERVANCE OF THE SUPPER WITH BOTH BREAD AND WINE. We think that rite, + manner, or form of the Supper to be the most simple and excellent which + comes nearest to the first institution of the Lord and to the apostles' + doctrine. It consists in proclaiming the Word of God, in godly prayers, in + the action of the Lord himself, and its repetition, in the eating of the + Lord's body and drinking of this blood; in a fitting remembrance of the + Lord's death, and a faithful thanksgiving; and in a holy fellowship in the + union of the body of the Church. + + We therefore disapprove of those who have taken from the faithful one + species of the sacrament, namely, the Lord's cup. For these seriously + offend against the institution of the Lord who says: "Drink ye all of + this"; which he did not so expressly say of the bread. + + We are not now discussing we what kind of mass once existed among the + fathers, whether it is to be tolerated or not. But this we say freely that + the mass which is now used throughout the Roman Church has been abolished + in our churches for many and very good reasons which, for brevity's sake, + we do not now enumerate in detail. We certainly could not approve of + making a wholesome action into a vain spectacle and a means of giving + merit, and of celebrating it for a price. Nor could we approve of saying + that in it the priest is said to effect the very body of the Lord, and + really to offer it for the remission of the sins of the living and the + dead, and in addition, for the honor, veneration and remembrance of the + saints in heaven, etc. + + - name: Of Religious and Ecclesiastical Meetings + number: 22 + text: | + + WHAT OUGHT TO BE DONE IN MEETINGS FOR WORSHIP. Although it is permitted + all men to read the Holy Scriptures privately at home, and by instruction + to edify one another in the true religion, yet in order that the Word of + God may be properly preached to the people, and prayers and supplication + publicly made, also that the sacraments may be rightly administered, and + that collections may be made for the poor and to pay the cost of all the + Church's expenses, and in order to maintain social intercourse, it is most + necessary that religious or Church gatherings be held. For it is certain + that in the apostolic and primitive Church, there were such assemblies + frequented by all the godly. + + MEETINGS FOR WORSHIP NOT TO BE NEGLECTED. As many as spun such meetings + and stay away from them, despise true religion, and are to be urged by the + pastors and godly magistrates to abstain from stubbornly absenting + themselves from sacred assemblies. + + MEETINGS ARE PUBLIC. But Church meetings are not to be secret and hidden, + but public and well attended, unless persecution by the enemies of Christ + and the Church does not permit them to be public. For we know how under + the tyranny of the Roman emperors the meetings of the primitive Church + were held in secret places. + + DECENT MEETING PLACES. Moreover, the places where the faithful meet are to + be decent, and in all respects fit for God's Church. Therefore, spacious + buildings or temples are to be chosen, but they are to be purged of + everything that is not fitting for a church. And everything is to be + arranged for decorum, necessity, and godly decency, lest anything be + lacking that is required for worship and the necessary works of the + Church. + + MODESTY AND HUMILITY TO BE OBSERVED IN MEETINGS. And as we believe that + God does not dwell in temples made with hands, so we know that on account + of God's Word and sacred use places dedicated to God and his worship are + not profane, but holy, and that those who are present in them are to + conduct themselves reverently and modestly, seeing that they are in a + sacred place, in the presence of God and his holy angels. + + THE TRUE ORNAMENTATION OF SANCTUARIES. Therefore, all luxurious attire, + all pride, and everything unbecoming to Christian humility, discipline and + modesty, are to be banished from the sanctuaries and places of prayer of + Christians. For the true ornamentation of churches does not consist in + ivory, gold, and precious stones, but in the frugality, piety, and virtues + of those who are in the Church. Let all things be done decently and in + order in the church, and finally, let all things be done for edification. + + WORSHIP IN THE COMMON LANGUAGE. Therefore, let all strange tongues keep + silence in gatherings for worship, and let all things be set forth in a + common language which is understood by the people gathered in that place. + + - name: Of the Prayers of the Church, of Singing, and of Canonical Hours + number: 23 + text: | + + COMMON LANGUAGE. It is true that a man is permitted to pray privately in + any language that he understands, but public prayers in meetings for + worship are to be made in the common language known to all. + + PRAYER. Let all the prayers of the faithful be poured forth to God alone, + through the mediation of Christ only, out of faith and love. The + priesthood of Christ the Lord and true religion forbid the invocation of + saints in heaven or to use them as intercessors. Prayer is to be made for + magistracy, for kings, and all that are placed in authority, for ministers + of the Church, and for all needs of churches. In calamities, especially of + the Church, unceasing prayer is to be made both privately and publicly. + + FREE PRAYER. Moreover, prayer is to be made voluntarily, without + constraint or for any reward. Nor is it proper for prayer to be + superstitiously restricted to one place, as if it were not permitted to + pray anywhere except in a sanctuary. Neither is it necessary for public + prayers to be the same in all churches with respect to form and time. Each + Church is to exercise its own freedom. Socrates, in his history, says, "In + all regions of the world you will not find two churches which wholly agree + in prayer" (Hist. ecclesiast. V.22, 57). The authors of this difference, I + think, were those who were in charge of the Churches at particular + times. Yet if they agree, it is to be highly commended and imitated by + others. + + THE METHOD TO BE EMPLOYED IN PUBLIC PRAYERS. As in everything, so also in + public prayers there is to be a standard lest they be excessively long and + irksome. The greater part of meetings for worship is therefore to be given + to evangelical teaching, and care is to be taken lest the congregation is + wearied by too lengthy prayers and when they are to hear the preaching of + the Gospel they either leave the meeting or, having been exhausted, want + to do away with it altogether. To such people the sermon seems to be + overlong, which otherwise is brief enough. And therefore it is appropriate + for preachers to keep to a standard. + + SINGING. Likewise moderation is to be exercised where singing is used in a + meeting for worship. That song which they call the Gregorian Chant has + many foolish things in it; hence it is rightly rejected by many of our + churches. If there are churches which have a true and proper sermon but no + singing, they ought not to be condemned. For all churches do not have the + advantage of singing. And it is well known form testimonies of antiquity + that the custom of singing is very old in the Eastern Churches whereas it + was late when it was at length accepted in the West. + + CANONICAL HOURS. Antiquity knew nothing of canonical hours, that is, + prayers arranged for certain hours of the day, and sung or recited by the + Papists, as can be proved from their breviaries and by many arguments. But + they also have not a few absurdities, of which I say nothing else; + accordingly they are rightly omitted by churches which substitute in their + place things that are beneficial for the whole Church of God. + + - name: Of Holy Days, Fasts and the Choice of Foods + number: 24 + text: | + + THE TIME NECESSARY FOR WORSHIP. Although religion is not bound to time, + yet it cannot be cultivated and exercised without a proper distribution + and arrangement of time. Every Church, therefore, chooses for itself a + certain time for public prayers, and for the preaching of the Gospel, and + for the celebration of the sacraments; and no one is permitted to + overthrow this appointment of the Church at his own pleasure. For unless + some due time and leisure is given for the outward exercise of religion, + without doubt men would be drawn away from it by their own affairs. + + THE LORD'S DAY. Hence we see that in the ancient churches there were not + only certain set hours in the week appointed for meetings, but that also + the Lord's Day itself, ever since the apostles' time, was set aside for + them and for a holy rest, a practice now rightly preserved by our Churches + for the sake of worship and love. + + SUPERSTITION. In this connection we do not yield to the Jewish observance + and to superstitions. For we do not believe that one day is any holier + than another, or think that rest in itself is acceptable to God. Moreover, + we celebrate the Lord's Day and not the Sabbath as a free observance. + + THE FESTIVALS OF CHRIST AND THE SAINTS. Moreover, if in Christian liberty + the churches religiously celebrate the memory of the Lord's nativity, + circumcision, passion, resurrection, and of his ascension into heaven, and + the sending of the Holy Spirit upon his disciples, we approve of it + highly. But we do not approve of feasts instituted for men and for + saints. Holy days have to do with the first Table of the Law and belong to + God alone. Finally, holy days which have been instituted for the saints + and which we have abolished, have much that is absurd and useless, and are + not to be tolerated. In the meantime, we confess that the remembrance of + saints, at a suitable time and place, is to be profitably commended to the + people in sermons, and the holy examples of the saints set forth to be + imitated by all. + + FASTING. Now, the more seriously the Church of Christ condemns surfeiting, + drunkenness, and all kinds of lust and intemperance, so much the more + strongly does it commend to us Christian fasting. For fasting is nothing + else than the abstinence and moderation of the godly, and a discipline, + care and chastisement of our flesh undertaken as a necessity for the time + being, whereby we are humbled before God, and we deprive the flesh of its + fuel so that it may the more willingly and easily obey the + Spirit. Therefore, those who pay no attention to such things do not fast, + but imagine that they fast if they stuff their stomachs once day, and at a + certain or prescribed time abstain from certain foods, thinking that by + having done this work they please God and do something good. Fasting is an + aid to the prayers of the saints and for all virtues. But as is seen in + the books of the prophets, the fast of the Jews who fasted from food but + not from wickedness did not please God. + + PUBLIC AND PRIVATE FASTING. Now there is a public and a private + fasting. In olden times they celebrated public fasts in calamitous limes + and in the affliction of the Church. They abstained altogether from food + till the evening, and spent all that time in holy prayers, the worship Of + God, and repentance These differed little from mourning, and there is + frequent mention of them in the Prophets and especially by Joel in Ch. 2· + Such a fast should be kept at this day, when the Church is in + distress. private fasts are undertaken by each one of us, as he feels + himself withdrawn from the Spirit. For in this manner he withdraws the + flesh from its fuel. + + CHARACTERISTICS OF FASTING. All fasts ought to proceed from a free and + willing spirit, and from genuine humility, and not feigned to gain the + applause or favor of men, much less that a man should wish to merit + righteousness by them. But let every one fast to this end, that he may + deprive the flesh of its fuel in order that he may the more zealously + serve God. + + LENT. The fast of Lent is attested by antiquity but not at all in the + writings of the apostles. Therefore it ought not, and cannot, be imposed + on the faithful. It is certain that formerly there were various forms and + customs of fasting. hence, Irenaeus, a most ancient writer, says: "Some + think that a fast should be observed one day only, others two days, but + others more, and some forty days. This diversity in keeping this fast did + not first begin in our times, but long before us by those, as I suppose, + who did not simply keep to what had been delivered to them from the + beginning, but afterwards fell into another custom either through + negligence or ignorance" (Fragm. 3, ed. Stieren, I. 824 f.). Moreover, + Socrates, the historian, says: "Because no ancient text is found + concerning this matter, I think the apostles left this to every man's own + judgment, that every one might do what is good without fear or constraint" + (Hist. ecclesiast. V.22, 40). + + CHOICE OF FOOD. Now concerning the choice of foods, we think that in + fasting all things should be denied to the flesh whereby the flesh is made + more insolent, and by which it is greatly pleased, and by which it is + inflamed with desire whether by fish or meat or spices or delicacies and + excellent wines. Moreover, we know that all the creatures of God were made + for the use and service of men. All things which God made are good, and + without distinction are to be used in the fear of God and with proper + moderation (Gen. 2:15 f.). For the apostle says: "To the pure all things + are pure" (Titus 1:15), and also: "Eat whatever is sold in the meat market + without raising any question on the ground of conscience" (I + Cor. 10:25). The same apostle calls the doctrine of those who teach to + abstain form meats "the doctrine of demons"; for "God created foods to be + received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know this truth that + everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is + received with thanksgiving" (1 Tim. 4:1 ff.) The same apostle, in the + epistle to the Colossians, reproves those who want to acquire a reputation + for holiness by excessive abstinence (Col. 2:18 ff.). + + SECTS. Therefore we entirely disapprove of the Tatians and the Encratites, + and all the disciples of Eustathius, against whom the Gangrain Synod was + called. + + - name: Of Catechizing and of Comforting and Visiting the Sick + number: 25 + text: | + + YOUTH TO BE INSTRUCTED IN GODLINESS. The Lord enjoined his ancient people + to exercise the greatest care that young people, even from infancy, be + properly instructed. Moreover, he expressly commanded in his law that they + should teach them, and that the mysteries of the sacraments should be + explained. Now since it is well known from the writings of the Evangelists + and apostles that God has no less concern for the youth of his new people, + when he openly testifies and says: "Let the children come to me; for to + such belongs the kingdom of heaven" (Mark 10:14), the pastors of the + churches act most wisely when they early and carefully caetchize the + youth, laying the first grounds of faith, and faithfully teaching the + rudiments of our religion by expounding the Ten Commandments, the + Apostles' Creed, the Lord's Prayer, and the doctrine of the sacraments, + with other such principles and chief heads of our religion. Here let the + Church show her faith and diligence in bringing the children to be + catechized, desirous and glad to have her children well instructed. + + THE VISITATION OF THE SICK. Since men are never exposed to more grievous + temptations than when they are harassed by infirmities, are sick and are + weakened by diseases of both soul and body, surely it is never more + fitting for pastors of churches to watch more carefully for the welfare of + their flocks than in such diseases and infirmities. Therefore let them + visit the sick soon, and let them be called in good time by the sick, if + the circumstance itself would have required it. Let them comfort and + confirm them in the true faith, and then arm them against the dangerous + suggestions of Satan. They should also hold prayer for the sick in the + home and, if need be, prayers should also be made for the sick in the + public meeting; and they should see that they happily depart this life. We + said above that we do not approve of the popish visitation of the sick + with extreme unction because it is absurd and is not approved by canonical + Scriptures. + + - name: >- + Of the Burial of the Faithful, and of the Care to Be Shown for the Dead; + of Purgatory, and the Appearing of Spirits + number: 26 + text: | + + THE BURIAL OF BODIES. As the bodies of the faithful are the temples of the + Holy Spirit which we truly believe will rise again at the Last Day, + Scriptures command that they be honorably and without superstition + committed to the earth, and also that honorable mention be made of those + saints who have fallen asleep in the Lord, and that all duties of familial + piety be shown to those left behind, their widows and orphans. We do not + teach that any other care be taken for the dead. Therefore, we greatly + disapprove of the Cynics, who neglected the bodies of the dead or most + carelessly and disdainfully cast them into the earth, never saying a good + word about the deceased, or caring a bit about those whom they left behind + them. + + THE CARE FOR THE DEAD. On the other hand, we do not approve of those who + are overly and absurdly attentive to the deceased; who, like the heathen, + bewail their dead (although we do not blame that moderate mourning which + the apostle permits in 1 Thess. 4:13, judging it to be inhuman not to + grieve at all); and who sacrifice for the dead, and mumble certain prayers + for pay, in order by such ceremonies to deliver their loved ones from the + torments in which they are immersed by death, and then think they are able + to liberate them by such incantations. + + THE STATE OF THE SOUL DEPARTED FROM THE BODY. For we believe that the + faithful, after bodily death, go directly to Christ, and, therefore, do + not need the eulogies and prayers of the living for the dead and their + services. Likewise we believe that unbelievers are immediately cast into + hell from which no exit is opened for the wicked by any services of the + living. + + PURGATORY. But what some teach concerning the fire of purgatory is opposed + to the Christian faith, namely, "I believe in the forgiveness of sins, and + the life everlasting," and to the perfect purgation through Christ, and to + these words of Christ our Lord: "Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears + my word and believes him who sent me, has eternal life; he shall not come + into judgment, but has passed from death to life" (John 5:24). Again: "He + who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but he is clean + all over, and you are clean" (John 13:10). + + APPARITION OF SPIRITS. Now what is related of the spirits or souls of the + dead sometimes appearing to those who are alive, and begging certain + duties of them whereby they may be set free, we count those apparitions + among the laughingstocks, crafts, and deceptions of the devil, who, as he + can transform himself into an angel of light, so he strives either to + overthrow the true faith or to call it into doubt. In the Old Testament + the Lord forbade the seeking of the truth from the dead, and any sort of + commerce with spirits Deut. 18:11). Indeed, as evangelical truth declares, + the glutton, being in torment, is denied a return to his brethren, as the + divine oracle declared in the words: "They have Moses and the prophets; + let them hear them. If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will + they be convinced if some one should rise from the dead" (Luke 16:29 ff.). + + - name: Of Rites, Ceremonies and Things Indifferent + number: 27 + text: | + + CEREMONIES AND RITES. Unto the ancient people were given at one time + certain ceremonies, as a kind of instruction for those who were kept under + the law, as under a schoolmaster or tutor. But when Christ, the Deliverer, + came and the law was abolished, we who believe are no more under the law + (Rom. 6:14), and the ceremonies have disappeared; hence the apostles did + not want to retain or to restore them in Christ's Church to such a degree + that they openly testified that they did not wish to impose any burden + upon the Church. Therefore, we would seem to be bringing in and restoring + Judaism if we were to increase ceremonies and rites in Christ's Church + according to the custom in the ancient Church. Hence, we by no means + approve of the opinion of those who think that the Church of Christ must + be held in check by many different rites, as if by some kind of + training. For if the apostles did not want to impose upon Christian people + ceremonies or rites which were appointed by God, who, I pray, in his right + mind would obtrude upon them the inventions devised by man? The more the + mass of rites is increased in the Church, the more is detracted not only + from Christian liberty, but also from Christ, and from faith in him, as + long as the people seek those things in ceremonies which they should seek + in the only Son of God, Jesus Christ, through faith. Wherefore a few + moderate and simple rites, that are not contrary to the Word of God, are + sufficient for the godly. + + DIVERSITY OF RITES. If different rites are found in churches, no one + should think that for this reason the churches disagree. Socrates says: + "It would be impossible to put together in writing all the rites of + churches throughout cities and countries. No religion observes the same + rites, even though it embraces the same doctrine concerning them. For + those who are of the same faith disagree among themselves about rites" + (Hist. ecclesiast. V.22, 30, 62). This much says Socrates. And we, today, + having in our churches different rites in the celebration of the Lord's + Supper and in some other things, nevertheless do not disagree in doctrine + and faith; nor is the unity and fellowship of our churches thereby rent + asunder. For the churches have always used their liberty in such rites, as + being things indifferent. We also do the same thing today. + + THINGS INDIFFERENT. But at the same time we admonish me to be on guard + lest they reckon among things indifferent what are in fact not + indifferent, as some are wont to regard the mass and the use of images in + places of worship as things indifferent. "Indifferent," wrote Jerome to + Augustine, "is that which is neither good nor bad, so that, whether you do + it or not, you are neither just nor unjust." Therefore, when things + indifferent are wrested to the confession of faith, they cease to be free; + as Paul shows that it is lawful for a man to eat flesh if someone does not + remind him that it was offered to idols; for then it is unlawful, because + he who eats it seems to approve idolatry by eating it (1 Cor. 8:9 ff.; + 10:25 ff.). + + - name: Of the possessions of the Church + number: 28 + text: | + + THE POSSESSIONS OF THE CHURCH AND THEIR PROPER USE. The Church of Christ + possesses riches through the munificence of princes and the liberality of + the faithful who have given their means to the Church. For the Church has + need of such resources and from ancient time has had resources for the + maintenance of things necessary for the Church. Now the true use of the + Church's wealth was, and is now, to maintain teaching in schools and in + religious meetings, along with all the worship, rites, and buildings of + the Church; finally, to maintain teachers, scholars, and ministers, with + other necessary things, and especially for the succor and relief of the + poor. + + MANAGEMENT. Moreover, God-fearing and wise men, noted for the management + of domestic affairs, should be chosen to administer properly the Church's + possessions. + + THE MISUSE OF THE CHURCH'S POSSESSIONS. But if through misfortune or + through the audacity, ignorance or avarice of some persons the Church's + wealth is abused, it is to be restored to a sacred use by godly and wise + men. For neither is an abuse, which is the greatest sacrilege, to be + winked at. Therefore, we teach that schools and institutions which have + been corrupted in doctrine, worship and morals must be reformed, and that + the relief of the poor must be arranged dutifully, wisely, and in good + faith. + + - name: Of Celibacy, Marriage and the Management of Domestic Affairs + number: 29 + text: | + + SINGLE PEOPLE. Those who have the gift of celibacy from heaven, so that + from the heart or with their whole soul are pure and continent and are not + aflame with passion, let them serve the Lord in that calling, as long as + they feel endued with that divine gift; and let them not lift up + themselves above others, but let them serve the Lord continuously in + simplicity and humility (1 Cor. 7:7 ff.). For such are more apt to attend + to divine things than those who are distracted with the private affairs of + a family. But if, again, the gift be taken away, and they feel a continual + burning, let them call to mind the words of the apostle: "It is better to + marry than to be aflame" (1 Cor. 7:9). + + MARRIAGE. For marriage (which is the medicine of incontinency, and + continency itself) was instituted by the Lord God himself, who blessed it + most bountifully, and willed man and woman to cleave one to the other + inseparable, and to live together in complete love and concord (Matt. 19:4 + ff.). Whereupon we know that the apostle said: "Let marriage be held in + honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled" (Heb. 13:4). And + again: "If a girl marries, she does not sin" (1 Cor. 7:28). + + THE SECTS. We therefore condemn polygamy, and those who condemn second + marriages. + + HOW MARRIAGES ARE TO BE CONTRACTED. We teach that marriages are to be + lawfully contracted in the fear of the Lord, and not against the laws + which forbid certain degrees of consanguinity, lest the marriages should + be incestuous. Let marriages be made with consent of the parents, or of + those who take the place of parents, and above all for that purpose for + which the Lord instituted marriages. Moreover, let them be kept holy with + the utmost faithfulness, piety, love and purity of those joined + together. Therefore let them guard against quarrels, dissensions, lust and + adultery. + + MATRIMONIAL FORUM. Let lawful courts be established in the Church, and + holy judges who may care for marriages, and may repress all unchastity and + shamefulness, and before whom matrimonial disputes may be settled. + + THE REARING OF CHILDREN. Children are to be brought up by the parents in + the fear of the Lord; and parents are to provide for their children, + remembering the saying of the apostle: "If anyone does not provide for his + relatives, he has disowned the faith and is worse than an unbeliever" (I + Tim. 5:8). But especially they should teach their children honest trades + or professions by which they may support themselves. They should ;keep + them from idleness and in all these things instill in them true faith in + God, lest through a lack of confidence or too much security or filthy + greed they become dissolute and achieve no success. + + And it is most certain that those works which are done by parents in true + faith by way of domestic duties and the management of their households are + in God's sight holy and truly good works. They are no less pleasing to God + than prayers, fasting and almsgiving. For thus the apostle has taught in + his epistles, especially in those to Timothy and Titus. And with the same + apostle we account the doctrine of those who forbid marriage or openly + castigate or indirectly discredit it, as if it were not holy and pure, + among the doctrine of demons. + + We also detest an impure single life, the secret and open lusts and + fornications of hypocrites pretending to be continent when they are the + most incontinent of all. All these God will judge. We do not disapprove of + riches or rich men, if they be godly and use their riches well. But we + reject the sect of the Apostolicals (The Apostolicals were followers of a + religious fanatic, Gherardo Segarelli, of Parma, who in the thirteenth + century wanted to restore the poverty of the apostolic life.) + + - name: Of the Magistracy + number: 30 + text: | + + THE MAGISTRACY IS FROM GOD. Magistracy of every kind is instituted by God + himself for the peace and tranquillity of the human race, and thus it + should have the chief place in the world. If the magistrate is opposed to + the Church, he can hinder and disturb it very much; but if he is a friend + and even a member of the Church, he is a most useful and excellent member + of it, who is able to benefit it greatly, and to assist it best of all. + + THE DUTY OF THE MAGISTRATE. The chief duty of the magistrate is to secured + and preserve peace and public tranquillity. Doubtless he will never do + this more successfully than when he is truly God-fearing and religious; + that is to say, when, according to the example of the most holy kings and + princes of the people of the Lord, he promotes the preaching of the truth + and sincere faith, roots out lies and all superstition, together with all + impiety and idolatry, and defends the Church of God. We certainly teach + that the care of religion belongs especially to the holy magistrate. + + Let him, therefore, hold the Word of God in his hands, and take care lest + anything contrary to it is taught. Likewise let him govern the people + entrusted to him by God with good laws made according to the Word of God, + and let him keep them in discipline, duty and obedience. Let him exercise + judgment by judging uprightly. Let him not respect any man's person or + accept bribes. Let him protect widows, orphans and the afflicted. Let him + punish and even banish criminals, impostors and barbarians. For he does + not bear the sword in vain (Rom. 13:4). + + Therefore, let him draw this sword of God against all malefactors, + seditious persons, thieves, murderers, oppressors, blasphemers, perjured + persons, and all those whom God has commanded him to punish and even to + execute. Let him suppress stubborn heretics (who are truly heretics), who + do not cease to blaspheme the majesty of God and to trouble, and even to + destroy the Church of God. + + WAR. And if it is necessary to preserve the safety of the people by war, + let him wage war in the name of God; provided he has first sought peace by + all means possible, and cannot save his people in any other way except by + war. And when the magistrate does these things in faith, he serves God by + those very works which are truly good, and receives a blessing from the + Lord. + + We condemn the Anabaptists, who when they deny that a Christian may hold + the office of a magistrate, deny also that a man may be justly put to + death by the magistrate, or that the magistrate may wage war, or that + oaths are to be rendered to a magistrate, and such like things. + + THE DUTY OF SUBJECTS. For as God wants to effect the safety of his people + by the magistrate, whom he has given to the world to be, as it were, a + father, so all subjects are commanded to acknowledge this favor of God in + the magistrate. Therefore let them honor and reverence the magistrate as + the minister of God; let them love him, favor him, and pray for him as + their father; and let them obey all his just and fair commands. Finally, + let them pay all customs and taxes, and all other such dues faithfully and + willingly. And if the public safety of the country and justice require it, + and the magistrate of necessity wages war, let them even lay down their + life and pour out their blood for the public safety and that of the + magistrate. And let them do this in the name of God willingly, bravely and + cheerfully. For he who opposes the magistrate provokes the severe wrath of + God against himself. + + SECTS AND SEDITIONS. We, therefore, condemn all who are contemptuous of + the magistrate - rebels, enemies of the state, seditious villains, + finally, all who openly or craftily refuse to perform whatever duties they + owe. + + We beseech God, our most merciful Father in heaven, that he will bless the + rulers of the people, and us, and his whole people, through Jesus Christ, + our only Lord and Savior; to whom be praise and glory and thanksgiving,for + all ages. Amen. + +... diff --git a/data/three-forms-of-unity/belgic-confession.yaml b/data/three-forms-of-unity/belgic-confession.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..ac239f1b1739739a7088efff7397e66523a1b287 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/three-forms-of-unity/belgic-confession.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,890 @@ +--- +name: The Belgic Confession of Faith +publication_year: 1566 +image: belgic.jpg +type: confession +chapters: + - name: That there is One Only God. + number: 1 + text: > + We all believe with the heart, and confess with the mouth, that there is + one only simple and spiritual Being, which we call God; and that he is + eternal, incomprehensible, invisible, immutable, infinite, almighty, + perfectly wise, just, good, and the overflowing fountain of all good. + + - name: By what means God is made known unto us. + number: 2 + text: > + "We know him by two means: first, by the creation, preservation and + government of the universe; which is before our eyes as a most elegant + book, wherein all creatures, great and small, are as so many characters + leading us to contemplate the invisible things of God, namely, his power + and divinity, as the apostle Paul saith, Romans 1:20. All which things + are sufficient to convincemen, and leave them without excuse. Secondly, + he makes himself more clearly and fully known to us by his holy and + divine Word, that is to say, as far as is necessary for us to know in + this life, to his glory and our salvation." + + - name: Of the written Word of God. + number: 3 + text: > + We confess that this Word of God was not sent, nor delivered by the will + of man, but that holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy + Ghost, as the apostle Peter saith. And that afterwards God, from a + special care, which he has for us and our salvation, commanded his + servants, the prophets and apostles, to commit his revealed word to + writing; and he himself wrote with his own finger, the two tables of the + law. Therefore we call such writings holy and divine Scriptures. + + - name: Canonical Books of the Holy Scripture. + number: 4 + text: > + We believe that the Holy Scriptures are contained in two books, namely, + the Old and New Testament, which are canonical, against which nothing + can be alleged. These are thus named in the Church of God. The books of + the Old Testament are, the five books of Moses, namely: Genesis, Exodus, + Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy; the books of Joshua, Ruth, Judges, the + two books of Samuel, the two of the Kings, two books of the Chronicles, + commonly called Paralipomenon, the first of Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Job, + the Psalms of David, the three books of Solomon, namely, the Proverbs, + Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Songs; the four great prophets Isaiah, + Jeremiah, Ezekiel and Daniel; and the twelve lesser prophets, namely, + Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, + Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. + + Those of the New Testament are the four evangelists, namely: Matthew, + Mark, Luke, and John; the Acts of the Apostles; the fourteen epistles of + the apostle Paul, namely: one to the Romans, two to the Corinthians, one + to the Galatians, one to the Ephesians, one to the Philippians, one to + the Colossians, two to the Thessalonians, two to Timothy, one to Titus, + one to Philemon, and one to the Hebrews; the seven epistles of the other + apostles, namely, one of James, two of Peter, three of John, one of + Jude; and the Revelation of the apostle John. + + - name: From whence the Holy Scriptures derive their dignity and authority. + number: 5 + text: > + We receive all these books, and these only, as holy and canonical, for + the regulation, foundation, and confirmation of our faith; believing + without any doubt, all things contained in them, not so much because the + Church receives and approves them as such, but more especially because + the Holy Ghost witnesseth in our hearts, that they are from God, whereof + they carry the evidence in themselves. For the very blind are able to + perceive that the things foretold in them are fulfilling. + + - name: The difference between the canonical and apocryphal books. + number: 6 + text: > + "We distinguish those sacred books from the apocryphal, namely: the third + book of Esdras, the books of Tobias, Judith, Wisdom, Jesus Syrach, + Baruch, the appendix to the book of Esther, the Song of the three + Children in the Furnace, the history of Susannah, of Bell and the + Dragon, the prayer of Manasses, and the two books of the Maccabees. All + of which the Church may read and take instruction from, so far as they + agree with the canonical books; but they are far from having such power + and efficacy, as that we may from their testimony confirm any point of + faith, or of the Christian religion; much less detract from the + authority of the other sacred books." + + - name: The sufficiency of the Holy Scriptures, to be the only rule of faith. + number: 7 + text: > + We believe that those Holy Scriptures fully contain the will of God, and + that whatsoever man ought to believe, unto salvation, is sufficiently + taught therein. For, since the whole manner of worship, which God + requires of us, is written in them at large, it is unlawful for any one, + though an apostle, to teach otherwise than we are now taught in the Holy + Scriptures: nay, though it were an angel from heaven, as the apostle + Paul saith. For, since it is forbidden, to add unto or take away + anything from the word of God, it doth thereby evidently appear, that + the doctrine thereof is most perfect and complete in all respects. + Neither do we consider of equal value any writing of men, however holy + these men may have been, with those divine Scriptures, nor ought we to + consider custom, or the great multitude, or antiquity, or succession of + times and persons, or councils, decrees or statutes, as of equal value + with the truth of God, for the truth is above all; for all men are of + themselves liars, and more vain than vanity itself. Therefore, we reject + with all our hearts, whatsoever doth not agree with this infallible + rule, which the apostles have taught us, saying, Try the spirits whether + they are of God. Likewise, if there come any unto you, and bring not + this doctrine, receive him not into your house. + + - name: That God is one in Essence, yet nevertheless distinguished in three Persons. + number: 8 + text: > + According to this truth and this Word of God, we believe in one only + God, who is the one single essence, in which are three persons, really, + truly, and eternally distinct, according to their incommunicable + properties; namely, the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost. The + Father is the cause, origin and beginning of all things visible and + invisible; the Son is the word, wisdom, and image of the Father; the + Holy Ghost is the eternal power and might, proceeding from the Father + and the Son. Nevertheless God is not by this distinction divided into + three, since the Holy Scriptures teach us, that the Father, and the Son, + and the Holy Ghost, have each his personality, distinguished by their + properties; but in such wise that these three persons are but one only + God. Hence then, it is evident, that the Father is not the Son, nor the + Son the Father, and likewise the Holy Ghost is neither the Father nor + the Son. Nevertheless these persons thus distinguished are not divided, + nor intermixed: for the Father hath not assumed the flesh, nor hath the + Holy Ghost, but the Son only. The Father hath never been without his + Son, or without his Holy Ghost. For they are all three co-eternal and + co-essential. There is neither first nor last: for they are all three + one, in truth, in power, in goodness, and in mercy. + + - name: The proof of the foregoing article of the Trinity of persons in one God. + number: 9 + text: > + All this we know, as well from the testimonies of holy writ, as from their + operations, and chiefly by those we feel in ourselves. The testimonies of the + Holy Scriptures, that teach us to believe this Holy Trinity are written in many + places of the Old Testament, which are not so necessary to enumerate, as to + choose them out with discretion and judgment. In Genesis, chapter 1:26, 27, God + saith: Let us make man in our image, after our likeness, etc. So God created + man in his own image, male and female created he them. And Genesis 3:22. Behold + the man is become as one of us. From this saying, let us make man in our image, + it appears that there are more persons than one in the Godhead; and when he + saith, God created, he signifies the unity. It is true that he doth not say how + many persons there are, but that, which appears to us somewhat obscure in the + Old Testament, is very plain in the New. For when our Lord was baptized in + Jordan, the voice of the Father was heard, saying, This is my beloved Son: the + Son was seen in the water, and the Holy Ghost appeared in the shape of a dove. + This form is also instituted by Christ in the baptism of all believers. Baptize + all nations, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. + In the Gospel of Luke, the angel Gabriel thus addressed Mary, the mother of our + Lord, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall + overshadow thee, therefore also that holy thing, which shall be born of thee, + shall be called the Son of God: likewise, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, + and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost be with you. And there + are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost, + and these three are one. In all which places we are fully taught, that there + are three persons in one only divine essence. And although this doctrine far + surpasses all human understanding, nevertheless, we now believe it by means of + the Word of God, but expect hereafter to enjoy the perfect knowledge and + benefit thereof in Heaven. Moreover, we must observe the particular offices and + operations of these three persons toward us. The Father is called our Creator, + by his power; the Son is our Savior and Redeemer, by his blood; the Holy Ghost + is our Sanctifier, by his dwelling in our hearts. This doctrine of the Holy + Trinity, hath always been defended and maintained by the true Church, since the + time of the apostles, to this very day, against the Jews, Mohammedans, and some + false Christians and heretics, as Marcion, Manes, Praxeas, Sabellius, + Samosatenus, Arius, and such like, who have been justly condemned by the + orthodox fathers. Therefore, in this point, we do willingly receive the three + creeds, namely, that of the Apostles, of Nice, and of Athanasius: likewise + that, which, conformable thereunto, is agreed upon by the ancient fathers. + + - name: That Jesus Christ is true and eternal God. + number: 10 + text: > + We believe that Jesus Christ, according to his divine nature, is the only + begotten Son of God, begotten from eternity, not made nor created (for then he + should be a creature), but co-essential and co-eternal with the Father, the + express image of his person, and the brightness of his glory, equal unto him in + all things. He is the Son of God, not only from the time that he assumed our + nature, but from all eternity, as these testimonies, when compared together, + teach us. Moses saith, that God created the world; and John saith, that all + things were made by that Word, which he calleth God. And the apostle saith, + that God make the worlds by his Son; likewise, that God created all things by + Jesus Christ. Therefore it must needs follow, that he, who is called God, the + Word, the Son, and Jesus Christ, did exist at that time, when all things were + created by him. Therefore the prophet Micah saith, His goings forth have been + from of old, from everlasting. And the apostle: He hath neither beginning of + days, nor end of life. He therefore is that true, eternal, and almighty God, + whom we invoke, worship and serve. + + - name: That the Holy Ghost is true and eternal God. + number: 11 + text: > + We believe and confess also, that the Holy Ghost, from eternity, + proceeds from the Father and Son; and therefore neither is made, + created, nor begotten, but only proceedeth from both; who in order is + the third person of the Holy Trinity; of one and the same essence, + majesty and glory with the Father, and the Son; and therefore, is the + true and eternal God, as the Holy Scriptures teach us. + + - name: Of the Creation. + number: 12 + text: > + We believe that the Father, by the Word, that is, by his Son, hath + created of nothing, the heaven, the earth, and all creatures, as it + seemed good unto him, giving unto every creature its being, shape, form, + and several offices to serve its Creator. That he doth also still uphold + and govern them by his eternal providence, and infinite power, for the + service of mankind, to the end that man may serve his God. He also + created the angels good, to be his messengers and to serve his elect; + some of which are fallen from that excellency, in which God created + them, into everlasting perdition; and the others have, by the grace of + God, remained steadfast and continued in their primitive state. The + devils and evil spirits are so depraved, that they are enemies of God + and every good thing, to the utmost of their power, as murderers, + watching to ruin the Church and every member thereof, and by their + wicked stratagems to destroy all; and are, therefore, by their own + wickedness, adjudged to eternal damnation, daily expecting their + horrible torments. Therefore we reject and abhor the error of the + Sadducees, who deny the existence of spirits and angels: and also that + of the Manichees, who assert that the devils have their origin of + themselves, and that they are wicked of their own nature, without having + been corrupted. + + - name: Of Divine Providence. + number: 13 + text: > + We believe that the same God, after he had created all things, did not + forsake them, or give them up to fortune or chance, but that he rules + and governs them according to his holy will, so that nothing happens in + this world without his appointment: nevertheless, God neither is the + author of, nor can be charged with, the sins which are committed. For + his power and goodness are so great and incomprehensible, that he orders + and executes his work in the most excellent and just manner, even then, + when devils and wicked men act unjustly. And, as to what he doth + surpassing human understanding, we will not curiously inquire into, + farther than our capacity will admit of; but with the greatest humility + and reverence adore the righteous judgments of God, which are hid from + us, contenting ourselves that we are disciples of Christ, to learn only + those things which he has revealed to us in his Word, without + transgressing these limits. This doctrine affords us unspeakable + consolation, since we are taught thereby that nothing can befall us by + chance, but by the direction of our most gracious and heavenly Father; + who watches over us with a paternal care, keeping all creatures so under + his power, that not a hair of our head (for they are all numbered), nor + a sparrow, can fall to the ground, without the will of our Father, in + whom we do entirely trust; being persuaded, that he so restrains the + devil and all our enemies, that without his will and permission, they + cannot hurt us. And therefore we reject that damnable error of the + Epicureans, who say that God regards nothing, but leaves all things to + chance. + + - name: Of the Creation and Fall of man, and his Incapacity to perform what is truly good. + number: 14 + text: > + We believe that God created man out of the dust of the earth, and made + and formed him after his own image and likeness, good, righteous, and + holy, capable in all things to will, agreeably to the will of God. But + being in honor, he understood it not, neither knew his excellency, but + willfully subjected himself to sin, and consequently to death, and the + curse, giving ear to the words of the devil. For the commandment of + life, which he had received, he transgressed; and by sin separated + himself from God, who was his true life, having corrupted his whole + nature; whereby he made himself liable to corporal and spiritual death. + And being thus become wicked, perverse, and corrupt in all his ways, he + hath lost all his excellent gifts, which he had received from God, and + only retained a few remains thereof, which, however, are sufficient to + leave man without excuse; for all the light which is in us is changed + into darkness, as the Scriptures teach us, saying: The light shineth in + darkness, and the darkness comprehendeth it not: where St. John calleth + men darkness. Therefore we reject all that is taught repugnant to this, + concerning the free will of man, since man is but a slave to sin; and + has nothing of himself, unless it is given from heaven. For who may + presume to boast, that he of himself can do any good, since Christ + saith, No man can come to me, except the Father, which hath sent me, + draw him? Who will glory in his own will, who understands, that to be + carnally minded is enmity against God? Who can speak of his knowledge, + since the natural man receiveth not the things of the spirit of God? In + short, who dare suggest any thought, since he knows that we are not + sufficient of ourselves to think anything as of ourselves, but that our + sufficiency is of God? And therefore what the apostle saith ought justly + to be held sure and firm, that God worketh in us both to will and to do + of his good pleasure. For there is no will nor understanding, + conformable to the divine will and understanding, but what Christ hath + wrought in man; which he teaches us, when he saith, Without me ye can do + nothing. + + - name: Of Original Sin. + number: 15 + text: > + We believe that, through the disobedience of Adam, original sin is + extended to all mankind; which is a corruption of the whole nature, and + an hereditary disease, wherewith infants themselves are infected even in + their mother\'s womb, and which produceth in man all sorts of sin, being + in him as a root thereof; and therefore is so vile and abominable in the + sight of God, that it is sufficient to condemn all mankind. Nor is it by + any means abolished or done away by baptism; since sin always issues + forth from this woeful source, as water from a fountain; notwithstanding + it is not imputed to the children of God unto condemnation, but by his + grace and mercy is forgiven them. Not that they should rest securely in + sin, but that a sense of this corruption should make believers often to + sigh, desiring to be delivered from this body of death. Wherefore we + reject the error of the Pelagians, who assert that sin proceeds only + from imitation. + + - name: Of Eternal Election. + number: 16 + text: > + We believe that all the posterity of Adam being thus fallen into + perdition and ruin, by the sin of our first parents, God then did + manifest himself such as he is; that is to say, merciful and just: + Merciful, since he delivers and preserves from this perdition all, whom + he, in his eternal and unchangeable counsel of mere goodness, hath + elected in Christ Jesus our Lord, without any respect to their works: + Just, in leaving others in the fall and perdition wherein they have + involved themselves. + + - name: Of the Recovery of Fallen Man. + number: 17 + text: > + We believe that our most gracious God, in his admirable wisdom and + goodness, seeing that man had thus thrown himself into temporal and + eternal death, and made himself wholly miserable, was pleased to seek + and comfort him, when he trembling fled from his presence, promising him + that he would give his Son, who should be made of a woman, to bruise the + head of the serpent, and would make him happy. + + - name: Of the Incarnation of Jesus Christ. + number: 18 + text: > + We confess, therefore, that God did fulfill the promise, which he made + to the fathers, by the mouth of his holy prophets, when he sent into the + world, at the time appointed by him, his own, only-begotten and eternal + Son, who took upon him the form of a servant, and became like unto man, + really assuming the true human nature, with all its infirmities, sin + excepted, being conceived in the womb of the blessed Virgin Mary, by the + power of the Holy Ghost, without the means of man, and did not only + assume human nature as to the body, but also a true human soul, that he + might be a real man. For since the soul was lost as well as the body, it + was necessary that he should take both upon him, to save both. Therefore + we confess (in opposition to the heresy of the Anabaptists, who deny + that Christ assumed human flesh of his mother) that Christ is become a + partaker of the flesh and blood of the children; that he is a fruit of + the loins of David after the flesh; made of the seed of David according + to the flesh; a fruit of the womb of the Virgin Mary, made of a woman, a + branch of David; a shoot of the root of Jesse; sprung from the tribe of + Judah; descended from the Jews according to the flesh; of the seed of + Abraham, since he took on him the seed of Abraham, and became like unto + his brethren in all things, sin excepted, so that in truth he is our + **Immanuel**, that is to say, God with us. + + - name: Of the union and distinction of the two Natures in the person of Christ. + number: 19 + text: > + We believe that by this conception, the person of the Son is inseparably + united and connected with the human nature; so that there are not two + Sons of God, nor two persons, but two natures united in one single + person: yet, that each nature retains its own distinct properties. As + then the divine nature hath always remained uncreated, without beginning + of days or end of life, filling heaven and earth: so also hath the human + nature not lost its properties, but remained a creature, having + beginning of days, being a finite nature, and retaining all the + properties of a real body. And though he hath by his resurrection given + immortality to the same, nevertheless he hath not changed the reality of + his human nature; forasmuch as our salvation and resurrection also + depend on the reality of his body. But these two natures are so closely + united in one person, that they were not separated even by his death. + Therefore that which he, when dying, commended into the hands of his + Father, was a real human spirit, departing from his body. But in the + meantime the divine nature always remained united with the human, even + when he lay in the grave. And the Godhead did not cease to be in him, + any more than it did when he was an infant, though it did not so clearly + manifest itself for a while. Wherefore we confess, that he is **very + God, and very Man**: very God by his power to conquer death; and very + man that he might die for us according to the infirmity of his flesh. + + - name: That God hath manifested his justice and mercy in Christ Jesus. + number: 20 + text: > + We believe that God, who is perfectly merciful and just, sent his Son to + assume that nature, in which the disobedience was committed, to make + satisfaction in the same, and to bear the punishment of sin by his most + bitter passion and death. God therefore manifested his justice against + his Son, when he laid our iniquities upon him; and poured forth his + mercy and goodness on us, who were guilty and worthy of damnation, out + of mere and perfect love, giving his Son unto death for us, and raising + him for our justification, that through him we might obtain immortality + and life eternal. + + - name: Of the satisfaction of Christ, our only High Priest, for us. + number: 21 + text: > + We believe that Jesus Christ is ordained with an oath to be an + everlasting High Priest, after the order of Melchisedec; and that he + hath presented himself in our behalf before the Father, to appease his + wrath by his full satisfaction, by offering himself on the tree of the + cross, and pouring out his precious blood to purge away our sins; as the + prophets had foretold. For it is written: He was wounded for our + transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of + our peace was upon him, and with his stripes we are healed. He was + brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and numbered with the transgressors, + and condemned by Pontius Pilate as a malefactor, though he had first + declared him innocent. Therefore: he restored that which he took not + away, and suffered, the just for the unjust, as well in his body as in + his soul, feeling the terrible punishment which our sins had merited; + insomuch that his sweat became like unto drops of blood falling on the + ground. He called out, my God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? and + hath suffered all this for the remission of our sins. Wherefore we + justly say with the apostle Paul: that we know nothing, but Jesus + Christ, and him crucified; we count all things but loss and dung for the + excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus our Lord, in whose wounds we + find all manner of consolation. Neither is it necessary to seek or + invent any other means of being reconciled to God, than this only + sacrifice, once offered, by which believers are made perfect forever. + This is also the reason why he was called by the angel of God, + **Jesus**, that is to say, **Savior**, because he should save his people + from their sins. + + - name: Of Faith in Jesus Christ. + number: 22 + text: > + + We believe that, to attain the true knowledge of this great mystery, the + Holy Ghost kindleth in our hearts an upright faith, which embraces Jesus + Christ, with all his merits, appropriates him, and seeks nothing more + besides him. For it must needs follow, either that all things, which are + requisite to our salvation, are not in Jesus Christ, or if all things + are in him, that then those who possess Jesus Christ through faith, have + complete salvation in him. Therefore, for any to assert, that Christ is + not sufficient, but that something more is required besides him, would + be too gross a blasphemy: for hence it would follow, that Christ was but + half a Savior. Therefore we justly say with Paul, that we are justified + by faith alone, or by faith without works. However, to speak more + clearly, we do not mean, that faith itself justifies us, for it is only + an instrument with which we embrace Christ our Righteousness. But Jesus + Christ, imputing to us all his merits and so many holy works which he + has done for us, and in our stead, is our Righteousness. And faith is an + instrument that keeps us in communion with him in all his benefits, + which, when become ours, are more than sufficient to acquit us of our + sins. + + - name: Of Justification. + number: 23 + text: > + We believe that our salvation consists in the remission of our sins for + Jesus Christ's sake, and that therein our righteousness before God is + implied: as David and Paul teach us, declaring this to be the happiness + of man, that God imputes righteousness to him without works. And the + same apostle saith, that we are justified freely by his grace, through + the redemption which is in Jesus Christ. And therefore we always hold + fast this foundation, ascribing all the glory to God, humbling ourselves + before him, and acknowledging ourselves to be such as we really are, + without presuming to trust in any thing in ourselves, or in any merit of + ours, relying and resting upon the obedience of Christ crucified alone, + which becomes ours, when we believe in him. This is sufficient to cover + our iniquities, and to give us confidence in approaching to God; freeing + the conscience of fear, terror and dread, without following the example + of our first father, Adam, who, trembling, attempted to cover himself + with fig-leaves. And verily if we should appear before God, relying on + ourselves, or on any other creature, though ever so little, we should, + alas! be consumed. And therefore every one must pray with David: O Lord, + enter not into judgment with thy servant: for in thy sight shall no man + living be justified. + + - name: Of man's Sanctification and Good Works. + number: 24 + text: > + We believe that this true faith being wrought in man by the hearing of + the Word of God, and the operation of the Holy Ghost, doth regenerate + and make him a new man, causing him to live a new life, and freeing him + from the bondage of sin. Therefore it is so far from being true, that + this justifying faith makes men remiss in a pious and holy life, that on + the contrary without it they would never do anything out of love to God, + but only out of self-love or fear of damnation. Therefore it is + impossible that this holy faith can be unfruitful in man: for we do not + speak of a vain faith, but of such a faith, which is called in + Scripture, a faith that worketh by love, which excites man to the + practice of those works, which God has commanded in his Word. Which + works, as they proceed from the good root of faith, are good and + acceptable in the sight of God, forasmuch as they are all sanctified by + his grace: howbeit they are of no account towards our justification. For + it is by faith in Christ that we are justified, even before we do good + works; otherwise they could not be good works, any more than the fruit + of a tree can be good, before the tree itself is good. Therefore we do + good works, but not to merit by them, (for what can they merit?) nay, we + are beholden to God for the good works we do, and not he to us, since it + is he that worketh in us both to will and to do of his good pleasure. + Let us therefore attend to what is written: when ye shall have done all + those things which are commanded you, say, we are unprofitable servants; + we have done that which was our duty to do. In the meantime, we do not + deny that God rewards our good works, but it is through his grace that + he crowns his gifts. Moreover, though we do good works, we do not found + our salvation upon them; for we do no work but what is polluted by our + flesh, and also punishable; and although we could perform such works, + still the remembrance of one sin is sufficient to make God reject them. + Thus then we would always be in doubt, tossed to and fro without any + certainty, and our poor consciences continually vexed, if they relied + not on the merits of the suffering and death of our Savior. + + - name: Of the abolishing of the Ceremonial Law. + number: 25 + text: > + We believe, that the ceremonies and figures of the law ceased at the + coming of Christ, and that all the shadows are accomplished; so that the + use of them must be abolished amongst Christians; yet the truth and + substance of them remain with us in Jesus Christ, in whom they have + their completion. In the meantime, we still use the testimonies taken + out of the law and the prophets, to confirm us in the doctrine of the + gospel, and to regulate our life in all honesty, to the glory of God, + according to his will. + + - name: Of Christ's Intercession. + number: 26 + text: > + We believe that we have no access unto God, but alone through the only + Mediator and Advocate, Jesus Christ the righteous, who therefore became + man, having united in one person the divine and human natures, that we + men might have access to the divine Majesty, which access would + otherwise be barred against us. But this Mediator, whom the Father has + appointed between him and us, ought in no wise to affright us by his + majesty, or cause us to seek another according to our fancy. For there + is no creature either in heaven or on earth who loveth us more than + Jesus Christ; who, though he was in the form of God, yet made himself of + no reputation, and took upon him the form of a man, and of a servant for + us, and was made like unto his brethren in all things. If then we should + seek for another Mediator, who would be well affected towards us, whom + could we find, who loved us more than he, who laid down his life for us, + even when we were his enemies? And if we seek for one who hath power and + majesty, who is there that has so much of both as he who sits at the + right hand of his Father, and who hath all power in heaven and on earth? + And who will sooner be heard than the own well beloved Son of God? + Therefore it was only through distrust that this practice of + dishonoring, instead of honoring the saints, was introduced, doing that, + which they never have done, nor required, but have on the contrary + steadfastly rejected according to their bounden duty, as appears by + their writings. Neither must we plead here our unworthiness; for the + meaning is not that we should offer our prayers to God on the ground of + our own worthiness but only on the ground of the excellency and + worthiness of the Lord Jesus Christ, whose righteousness is become ours + by faith. Therefore the apostle, to remove this foolish fear, or rather + mistrust from us, justly saith, that Jesus Christ was made like unto his + brethren in all things, that he might be a merciful and faithful High + Priest, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that + he himself hath suffered, being tempted, he is able to succor them that + are tempted; and further to encourage us, he adds, seeing then that we + have a great High Priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son + of God, let us hold fast the profession. For we have not an high priest + which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in + all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore + come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find + grace to help in time of need. The same apostle saith, having boldness + to enter into the holiest, by the blood of Jesus; let us draw near with + a true heart in full assurance of faith, etc. Likewise, Christ hath an + unchangeable priesthood, wherefore he is able also to save them to the + uttermost, that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make + intercession for them. What more can be required? since Christ himself + saith, I am the way and the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the + Father but by me. To what purpose would we then seek another advocate, + since it has pleased God, to give us his own Son as an advocate? Let us + not forsake him to take another, or rather to seek after another, + without ever being able to find him; for God well knew, when he gave him + to us, that we were sinners. Therefore according to the command of + Christ, we call upon the heavenly Father through Jesus Christ our own + Mediator, as we are taught in the Lord\'s prayer; being assured that + whatever we ask of the Father in his name, will be granted us. + + - name: Of the Catholic Christian Church. + number: 27 + text: > + We believe and profess, one catholic or universal Church, which is an + holy congregation, of true Christian believers, all expecting their + salvation in Jesus Christ, being washed by his blood, sanctified and + sealed by the Holy Ghost. This Church hath been from the beginning of + the world, and will be to the end thereof; which is evident from this, + that Christ is an eternal King, which, without subjects, cannot be. And + this holy Church is preserved or supported by God, against the rage of + the whole world; though she sometimes (for a while) appears very small, + and in the eyes of men, to be reduced to nothing: as during the perilous + reign of Ahab, the Lord reserved unto him seven thousand men, who had + not bowed their knees to Baal. Furthermore, this holy Church is not + confined, bound, or limited to a certain place or to certain persons, + but is spread and dispersed over the whole world; and yet is joined and + united with heart and will, by the power of faith, in one and the same + spirit. + + - name: That every one is bound to join himself to the true Church. + number: 28 + text: > + We believe, since this holy congregation is an assembly of those who are + saved, and that out of it there is no salvation, that no person of + whatsoever state or condition he may be, ought to withdraw himself, to + live in a separate state from it; but that all men are in duty bound to + join and unite themselves with it; maintaining the unity of the Church; + submitting themselves to the doctrine and discipline thereof; bowing + their necks under the yoke of Jesus Christ; and as mutual members of the + same body, serving to the edification of the brethren, according to the + talents God has given them. And that this may be the more effectually + observed, it is the duty of all believers, according to the word of God, + to separate themselves from all those who do not belong to the Church, + and to join themselves to this congregation, wheresoever God hath + established it, even though the magistrates and edicts of princes were + against it, yea, though they should suffer death or any other corporal + punishment. Therefore all those, who separate themselves from the same, + or do not join themselves to it, act contrary to the ordinance of God. + + - name: Of the marks of the true Church, and wherein she differs from the false Church. + number: 29 + text: > + We believe, that we ought diligently and circumspectly to discern from + the Word of God which is the true Church, since all sects which are in + the world assume to themselves the name of the Church. But we speak not + here of hypocrites, who are mixed in the Church with the good, yet are + not of the Church, though externally in it; but we say that the body and + communion of the true Church must be distinguished from all sects, who + call themselves the Church. The marks, by which the true Church is + known, are these: if the pure doctrine of the gospel is preached + therein; if she maintains the pure administration of the sacraments as + instituted by Christ; if church discipline is exercised in punishing of + sin: in short, if all things are managed according to the pure Word of + God, all things contrary thereto rejected, and Jesus Christ acknowledged + as the only Head of the Church. Hereby the true Church may certainly be + known, from which no man has a right to separate himself. With respect + to those, who are members of the Church, they may be known by the marks + of Christians: namely, by faith; and when they have received Jesus + Christ the only Savior, they avoid sin, follow after righteousness, love + the true God and their neighbor, neither turn aside to the right or + left, and crucify the flesh with the works thereof. But this is not to + be understood, as if there did not remain in them great infirmities; but + they fight against them through the Spirit, all the days of their life, + continually taking their refuge in the blood, death, passion and + obedience of our Lord Jesus Christ, "in whom they have remission of + sins, through faith in him." As for the false Church, she ascribes more + power and authority to herself and her ordinances than to the Word of + God, and will not submit herself to the yoke of Christ. Neither does she + administer the sacraments as appointed by Christ in his Word, but adds + to and takes from them, as she thinks proper; she relieth more upon men + than upon Christ; and persecutes those, who live holily according to the + Word of God, and rebuke her for her errors, covetousness, and idolatry. + These two Churches are easily known and distinguished from each other. + + - name: Concerning the Government of, and Offices in the Church. + number: 30 + text: > + We believe, that this true Church must be governed by that spiritual + policy which our Lord hath taught us in his Word; namely, that there + must be ministers or pastors to preach the Word of God, and to + administer the sacraments; also elders and deacons, who, together with + the pastors, form the council of the Church: that by these means true + religion may be preserved, and the true doctrine everywhere propagated, + likewise transgressors punished and restrained by spiritual means: also + that the poor and distressed may be relieved and comforted, according to + their necessities. By these means everything will be carried on in the + Church with good order and decency, when faithful men are chosen, + according to the rule prescribed by St. Paul in his Epistle to Timothy. + + - name: Of the Ministers, Elders, and Deacons. + number: 31 + text: > + We believe, that the ministers of God\'s Word, and the elders and + deacons, ought to be chosen to their respective offices by a lawful + election by the Church, with calling upon the name of the Lord, and in + that order which the Word of God teacheth. Therefore every one must take + heed, not to intrude himself by indecent means, but is bound to wait + till it shall please God to call him; that he may have testimony of his + calling, and be certain and assured that it is of the Lord. As for the + ministers of God\'s Word, they have equally the same power and authority + wheresoever they are, as they are all ministers of Christ, the only + universal Bishop, and the only Head of the Church. Moreover, that this + holy ordinance of God may not be violated or slighted, we say that every + one ought to esteem the ministers of God\'s Word, and the elders of the + Church, very highly for their work\'s sake, and be at peace with them + without murmuring, strife or contention, as much as possible. + + - name: Of the Order and Discipline of the Church. + number: 32 + text: > + In the meantime we believe, though it is useful and beneficial, that + those, who are rulers of the Church, institute and establish certain + ordinances among themselves for maintaining the body of the Church; yet + they ought studiously to take care, that they do not depart from those + things which Christ, our only Master, hath instituted. And therefore, we + reject all human inventions, and all laws, which man would introduce + into the worship of God, thereby to bind and compel the conscience in + any manner whatever. Therefore we admit only of that which tends to + nourish and preserve concord, and unity, and to keep all men in + obedience to God. For this purpose, ex-communication or church + discipline is requisite, with the several circumstances belonging to it, + according to the Word of God. + + - name: Of the Sacraments. + number: 33 + text: > + We believe, that our gracious God, on account of our weakness and + infirmities hath ordained the sacraments for us, thereby to seal unto us + his promises, and to be pledges of the good will and grace of God toward + us, and also to nourish and strengthen our faith; which he hath joined + to the Word of the gospel, the better to present to our senses, both + that which he signifies to us by his Word, and that which he works + inwardly in our hearts, thereby assuring and confirming in us the + salvation which he imparts to us. For they are visible signs and seals + of an inward and invisible thing, by means whereof God worketh in us by + the power of the Holy Ghost. Therefore the signs are not in vain or + insignificant, so as to deceive us. For Jesus Christ is the true object + presented by them, without whom they would be of no moment. Moreover, we + are satisfied with the number of sacraments which Christ our Lord hath + instituted, which are two only, namely, the sacrament of baptism, and + the holy supper of our Lord Jesus Christ. + + - name: Of Holy Baptism. + number: 34 + text: > + We believe and confess that Jesus Christ, who is the end of the law, + hath made an end, by the shedding of his blood, of all other sheddings + of blood which men could or would make as a propitiation or satisfaction + for sin: and that he, having abolished circumcision, which was done with + blood, hath instituted the sacrament of baptism, instead thereof; by + which we are received into the Church of God, and separated from all + other people and strange religions, that we may wholly belong to him, + whose ensign and banner we bear: and which serves as a testimony to us, + that he will forever be our gracious God and Father. Therefore he has + commanded all those, who are his, to be baptized with pure water, "in + the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost": thereby + signifying to us, that as water washeth away the filth of the body, when + poured upon it, and is seen on the body of the baptized, when sprinkled + upon him; so doth the blood of Christ, by the power of the Holy Ghost, + internally sprinkle the soul, cleanse it from its sins, and regenerate + us from children of wrath, unto children of God. Not that this is + effected by the external water, but by the sprinkling of the precious + blood of the Son of God; who is our Red Sea, through which we must pass, + to escape the tyranny of Pharaoh, that is, the devil, and to enter into + the spiritual land of Canaan. Therefore the ministers, on their part, + administer the sacrament, and that which is visible, but our Lord giveth + that which is signified by the sacrament, namely, the gifts and + invisible grace; washing, cleansing and purging our souls of all filth + and unrighteousness; renewing our hearts, and filling them with all + comfort; giving unto us a true assurance of his fatherly goodness; + putting on us the new man, and putting off the old man with all his + deeds. Therefore we believe, that every man, who is earnestly studious + of obtaining life eternal, ought to be but once baptized with this only + baptism, without ever repeating the same: since we cannot be born twice. + Neither doth this baptism only avail us, at the time when the water is + poured upon us, and received by us, but also through the whole course of + our life; therefore we detest the error of the Anabaptists, who are not + content with the one only baptism they have once received, and moreover + condemn the baptism of the infants of believers, whom we believe ought + to be baptized and sealed with the sign of the covenant, as the children + in Israel formerly were circumcised, upon the same promises which are + made unto our children. And indeed Christ shed his blood no less for the + washing of the children of the faithful, than for adult persons; and + therefore they ought to receive the sign and sacrament of that, which + Christ hath done for them; as the Lord commanded in the law, that they + should be made partakers of the sacrament of Christ\'s suffering and + death, shortly after they were born, by offering for them a lamb, which + was a sacrament of Jesus Christ. Moreover, what circumcision was to the + Jews, that baptism is for our children. And for this reason Paul calls + baptism the circumcision of Christ. + + - name: Of the Holy Supper of our Lord Jesus Christ. + number: 35 + text: > + We believe and confess, that our Savior Jesus Christ did ordain and + institute the sacrament of the holy supper, to nourish and support those + whom he hath already regenerated, and incorporated into his family, + which is his Church. Now those, who are regenerated, have in them a + two-fold life, the one corporal and temporal, which they have from the + first birth, and is common to all men: the other spiritual and heavenly, + which is given them in their second birth, which is effected by the word + of the gospel, in the communion of the body of Christ; and this life is + not common, but is peculiar to God\'s elect. In like manner God hath + given us, for the support of the bodily and earthly life, earthly and + common bread, which is subservient thereto, and is common to all men, + even as life itself. But for the support of the spiritual and heavenly + life, which believers have, he hath sent a living bread, which descended + from heaven, namely, Jesus Christ, who nourishes and strengthens the + spiritual life of believers, when they eat him, that is to say, when + they apply and receive him by faith in the spirit. Christ, that he might + represent unto us this spiritual and heavenly bread, hath instituted an + earthly and visible bread, as a sacrament of his body, and wine as a + sacrament of his blood, to testify by them unto us, that, as certainly + as we receive and hold this sacrament in our hands, and eat and drink + the same with our mouths, by which our life is afterwards nourished, we + also do as certainly receive by faith (which is the hand and mouth of + our soul) the true body and blood of Christ our only Savior in our + souls, for the support of our spiritual life. Now, as it is certain and + beyond all doubt, that Jesus Christ hath not enjoined to us the use of + his sacraments in vain, so he works in us all that he represents to us + by these holy signs, though the manner surpasses our understanding, and + cannot be comprehended by us, as the operations of the Holy Ghost are + hidden and incomprehensible. In the meantime we err not, when we say, + that what is eaten and drunk by us is the proper and natural body, and + the proper blood of Christ. But the manner of our partaking of the same, + is not by the mouth, but by the spirit through faith. Thus then, though + Christ always sits at the right hand of his Father in the heavens, yet + doth he not therefore cease to make us partakers of himself by faith. + This feast is a spiritual table, at which Christ communicates himself + with all his benefits to us, and gives us there to enjoy both himself, + and the merits of his suffering and death, nourishing, strengthening and + comforting our poor comfortless souls by the eating of his flesh, + quickening and refreshing them by the drinking of his blood. Further, + though the sacraments are connected with the thing signified, + nevertheless both are not received by all men: the ungodly indeed + receives the sacrament to his condemnation, but he doth not receive the + truth of the sacrament. As Judas, and Simon the sorcerer, both indeed + received the sacrament, but not Christ, who was signified by it, of whom + believers only are made partakers. Lastly, we receive this holy + sacrament in the assembly of the people of God, with humility and + reverence, keeping up amongst us a holy remembrance of the death of + Christ our Savior, with thanksgiving: making there confession of our + faith, and of the Christian religion. Therefore no one ought to come to + this table without having previously rightly examined himself; lest by + eating of this bread and drinking of this cup, he eat and drink judgment + to himself. In a word, we are excited by the use of this holy sacrament, + to a fervent love towards God and our neighbor. Therefore we reject all + mixtures and damnable inventions, which men have added unto, and blended + with the sacraments, as profanations of them: and affirm that we ought + to rest satisfied with the ordinance which Christ and his apostles have + taught us, and that we must speak of them in the same manner as they + have spoken. + + - name: Of Magistrates. + number: 36 + text: > + + We believe that our gracious God, because of the depravity of mankind, hath + appointed kings, princes and magistrates, willing that the world should be + governed by certain laws and policies; to the end that the dissoluteness of men + might be restrained, and all things carried on among them with good order and + decency. For this purpose he hath invested the magistracy with the sword, for + the punishment of evil-doers, and for the protection of them that do well. And + their office is, not only to have regard unto, and watch for the welfare of the + civil state; but also that they protect the sacred ministry; and thus may + remove and prevent all idolatry and false worship; that the kingdom of + anti-Christ may be thus destroyed and the kingdom of Christ promoted. They must + therefore countenance the preaching of the Word of the gospel everywhere, that + God may be honored and worshipped by every one, of what state, quality, or + condition so ever he may be, to subject himself to the magistrates; to pay + tribute, to show due honor and respect to them, and to obey them in all things + which are not repugnant to the Word of God; to supplicate for them in their + prayers, that God may rule and guide them in all their ways, and that we may + lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. Wherefore we + detest the Anabaptists and other seditious people, and in general all those who + reject the higher powers and magistrates, and would subvert justice, introduce + community of goods, and confound that decency and good order, which God hath + established among men. + + - name: Of the Last Judgment. + number: 37 + text: > + Finally we believe, according to the Word of God, when the time appointed by + the Lord (which is unknown to all creatures) is come, and the number of the + elect complete, that our Lord Jesus Christ will come from heaven, corporally + and visibly, as he ascended, with great glory and majesty to declare himself + judge of the quick and the dead; burning this old world with fire and flame, to + cleanse it. And then all men will personally appear before this great judge, + both men and women and children, that have been from the beginning of the world + to the end thereof, being summoned by the voice of the archangel, and by the + sound of the trumpet of God. For all the dead shall be raised out of the earth, + and their souls joined and united with their proper bodies, in which they + formerly lived. As for those who shall then be living, they shall not die as + the others, but be changed in the twinkling of an eye, and from corruptible, + become incorruptible. Then the books (that is to say the consciences) shall be + opened, and the dead judged according to what they shall have done in this + world, whether it be good or evil. Nay, all men shall give an account of every + idle word they have spoken, which the world only counts amusement and jest: and + then the secrets and hypocrisy of men shall be disclosed and laid open before + all. And therefore the consideration of this judgment, is justly terrible and + dreadful to the wicked and ungodly, but most desirable and comfortable to the + righteous and elect: because then their full deliverance shall be perfected, + and there they shall receive the fruits of their labor and trouble which they + have borne. Their innocence shall be known to all, and they shall see the + terrible vengeance which God shall execute on the wicked, who most cruelly + persecuted, oppressed and tormented them in this world; and who shall be + convicted by the testimony of their own consciences, and being immortal, shall + be tormented in that everlasting fire, which is prepared for the devil and his + angels. But on the contrary, the faithful and elect shall be crowned with glory + and honor; and the Son of God will confess their names before God his Father, + and his elect angels; all tears shall be wiped from their eyes; and their cause + which is now condemned by many judges and magistrates, as heretical and + impious, will then be known to be the cause of the Son of God. And for a + gracious reward, the Lord will cause them to possess such a glory, as never + entered into the heart of man to conceive. Therefore we expect that great day + with a most ardent desire to the end that we may fully enjoy the promises of + God in Christ Jesus our Lord. AMEN. + + "Even so, come, Lord Jesus." - Revelation. 22:20 +... diff --git a/data/three-forms-of-unity/canons-of-dort.yaml b/data/three-forms-of-unity/canons-of-dort.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..4bd4636e3bc0d9c9d53fb387c16f9b0369ad61f6 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/three-forms-of-unity/canons-of-dort.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,1194 @@ +--- +name: Canons of Dort +publication_year: 1618 +type: confession +image: dort.jpg +chapters: + - name: Of Divine Predestination + number: 1 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + As all men have sinned in Adam, lie under the curse, and are deserving + of eternal death, God would have done no injustice by leaving them all + to perish, and delivering them over to condemnation on account of sin, + according to the words of the apostle, Romans 3:19, "that every mouth + may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God." And + verse 23: "for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." + And Romans 6:23: "for the wages of sin is death." + - number: 2 + text: > + But in this the love of God was manifested, that he sent his only + begotten Son into the world, that whosoever believeth on him should + not perish, but have everlasting life. 1 John 4:9. John 3:16. + - number: 3 + text: > + And that men may be brought to believe, God mercifully sends the + messengers of these most joyful tidings, to whom he will and at what + time he pleaseth; by whose ministry men are called to repentance and + faith in Christ crucified. 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?" + - number: 4 + text: > + The wrath of God abideth upon those who believe not this gospel. But + such as receive it, and embrace Jesus the Savior by a true and living + faith, are by him delivered from the wrath of God, and from + destruction, and have the gift of eternal life conferred upon them. + - number: 5 + text: > + The cause or guilt of this unbelief as well as of all other sins, is + no wise in God, but in man himself; whereas faith in Jesus Christ, and + salvation through him is the free gift of God, as it is written: "By + grace ye are saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is + the gift of God," Ephesians 2:8. "And unto you it is given in the + behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him," etc. Philippians 1:29. + - number: 6 + text: > + That some receive the gift of faith from God, and others do not + receive it proceeds from God's eternal decree, "For known unto God are + all his works from the beginning of the world," Acts 15:18. "Who + worketh all things after the counsel of his will," Ephesians + 1:11. According to which decree, he graciously softens the hearts of + the elect, however obstinate, and inclines them to believe, while he + leaves the non-elect in his just judgment to their own wickedness and + obduracy. And herein is especially displayed the profound, and + merciful, and at the same time the righteous discrimination between + men, equally involved in ruin; or that decree of election and + reprobation, revealed in the Word of God, which though men of + perverse, impure and unstable minds wrest to their own destruction, + yet to holy and pious souls affords unspeakable consolation. + - number: 7 + text: > + Election is the unchangeable purpose of God, whereby, before the + foundation of the world, he hath out of mere grace, according to the + sovereign good pleasure of his own will, chosen, from the whole human + race, which had fallen through their own fault, from their primitive + state of rectitude, into sin and destruction, a certain number of + persons to redemption in Christ, whom he from eternity appointed the + Mediator and Head of the elect, and the foundation of Salvation. This + elect number, though by nature neither better nor more deserving than + the others, but with them involved in one common misery, God hath + decreed to give to Christ, to be saved by him, and effectually to call + and draw them to his communion by his Word and Spirit, to bestow upon + them true faith, justification and sanctification; and having + powerfully preserved them in the fellowship of his Son, finally, to + glorify them for the demonstration of his mercy, and for the praise of + his glorious grace; as it is written: "According as he hath chosen us + in him, before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy, + and without blame before him in love; having predestinated us unto the + adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good + pleasure of his will, to the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein + he hath made us accepted in the beloved," Ephesians 1:4,5,6 And + elsewhere: "Whom he did predestinate, them he also called; and whom he + called, them he also justified; and whom he justified, them he also + glorified," Romans 8:30 + - number: 8 + text: > + There are not various decrees of election, but one and the same decree + respecting all those, who shall be saved, both under the Old and New + Testament: since the scripture declares the good pleasure, purpose and + counsel of the divine will to be one, according to which he hath + chosen us from eternity, both to grace and glory, to salvation and the + way of salvation, which he hath ordained that we should walk therein. + - number: 9 + text: > + This election was not founded upon foreseen faith, and the obedience + of faith, holiness, or any other good quality of disposition in man, + as the pre-requisite, cause or condition on which it depended; but men + are chosen to faith and to the obedience of faith, holiness, etc., + therefore election is the fountain of every saving good; from which + proceed faith, holiness, and the other gifts of salvation, and finally + eternal life itself, as its fruits and effects, according to that of + the apostle: "He hath chosen us (not because we were) but that we + should be holy, and without blame, before him in love," Ephesians 1:4. + - number: 10 + text: > + The good pleasure of God is the sole cause of this gracious election; + which doth not consist herein, that out of all possible qualities and + actions of men God has chosen some as a condition of salvation; but + that he was pleased out of the common mass of sinners to adopt some + certain persons as a peculiar people to himself, as it is written, + "For the children being not yet born neither having done any good or + evil," etc., it was said (namely to Rebecca): "the elder shall serve + the younger; as it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I + hated," Romans 9:11,12,13. "And as many as were ordained to eternal + life believed," Acts 13:48. + - number: 11 + text: > + And as God himself is most wise, unchangeable, omniscient and + omnipotent, so the election made by him can neither be interrupted nor + changed, recalled or annulled; neither can the elect be cast away, nor + their number diminished. + - number: 12 + text: > + The elect in due time, though in various degrees and in different + measures, attain the assurance of this their eternal and unchangeable + election, not by inquisitively prying into the secret and deep things + of God, but by observing in themselves with a spiritual joy and holy + pleasure, the infallible fruits of election pointed out in the Word of + God - such as a true faith in Christ, filial fear, a godly sorrow for + sin, a hungering and thirsting after righteousness, etc. + - number: 13 + text: > + The sense and certainty of this election afford to the children of God + additional matter for daily humiliation before him, for adoring the + depth of his mercies, for cleansing themselves, and rendering grateful + returns of ardent love to him, who first manifested so great love + towards them. The consideration of this doctrine of election is so far + from encouraging remissness in the observance of the divine commands, + or from sinking men in carnal security, that these, in the just + judgment of God, are the usual effects of rash presumption, or of idle + and wanton trifling with the grace of election, in those who refuse to + walk in the ways of the elect. + - number: 14 + text: > + As the doctrine of divine election by the most wise counsel of God, + was declared by the prophets, by Christ himself, and by the apostles, + and is clearly revealed in the Scriptures, both of the Old and New + Testament, so it is still to be published in due time and place in the + Church of God, for which it was peculiarly designed, provided it be + done with reverence, in the spirit of discretion and piety, for the + glory of God's most holy name, and for enlivening and comforting his + people, without vainly attempting to investigate the secret ways of + the Most High. Acts 20:27; Romans 11:33,34;12:3; Hebrews 6:17,18. + - number: 15 + text: > + What peculiarly tends to illustrate and recommend to us the eternal + and unmerited grace of election, is the express testimony of sacred + Scripture, that not all, but some only are elected, while others are + passed by in the eternal election of God; whom God, out of his + sovereign, most just, irreprehensible and unchangeable good pleasure, + hath decreed to leave in the common misery into which they have + willfully plunged themselves, and not to bestow upon them saving faith + and the grace of conversion; but leaving them in his just judgment to + follow their own ways, at last for the declaration of his justice, to + condemn and punish them forever, not only on account of their + unbelief, but also for all their other sins. And this is the decree of + reprobation which by no means makes God the author of sin (the very + thought of which is blasphemy), but declares him to be an awful, + irreprehensible, and righteous judge and avenger thereof. + - number: 16 + text: > + Those who do not yet experience a lively faith in Christ, an assured + confidence of soul, peace of conscience, an earnest endeavor after + filial obedience, and glorying in God through Christ, efficaciously + wrought in them, and do nevertheless persist in the use of the means + which God hath appointed for working these graces in us, ought not to + be alarmed at the mention of reprobation, nor to rank themselves among + the reprobate, but diligently to persevere in the use of means, and + with ardent desires, devoutly and humbly to wait for a season of + richer grace. Much less cause have they to be terrified by the + doctrine of reprobation, who, though they seriously desire to be + turned to God, to please him only, and to be delivered from the body + of death, cannot yet reach that measure of holiness and faith to which + they aspire; since a merciful God has promised that he will not quench + the smoking flax, nor break the bruised reed. But this doctrine is + justly terrible to those, who, regardless of God and of the Savior + Jesus Christ, have wholly given themselves up to the cares of the + world, and the pleasures of the flesh, so long as they are not + seriously converted to God. + - number: 17 + text: > + Since we are to judge of the will of God from his Word, which + testifies that the children of believers are holy, not by nature, but + in virtue of the covenant of grace, in which they, together with the + parents, are comprehended, godly parents have no reason to doubt of + the election and salvation of their children, whom it pleaseth God to + call out of this life in their infancy. + - number: 18 + text: > + To those who murmur at the free grace of election, and just severity + of reprobation, we answer with the apostle: "Nay, but, O man, who art + thou that repliest against God?" Romans 9:20, and quote the language + of our Savior: "Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with my + own?" Matthew 20:15.And therefore with holy adoration of these + mysteries, we exclaim in the words of the apostle: "O the depths of + the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable + are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known + the mind of the Lord, or who hath been his counselor? or who hath + first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? For of + him, and through him, and to him are all things: to whom be glory for + ever. - Amen." + rejections: + - number: 1 + text: > + Who teach: That the will of God to save those who would believe and + would persevere in faith and in the obedience of faith, is the whole + and entire decree of election unto salvation, and that nothing else + concerning this decree has been revealed in God's Word. For these + deceive the simple and plainly contradict the Scriptures, which + declare that God will not only save those who will believe, but that + he has also from eternity chosen certain particular persons to whom + above others he in time will grant both faith in Christ and + perseverance; as it written: "I manifested thy name unto the men whom + thou gavest me out of the world," John 17:6 "And as many as were + ordained to eternal life believed," Acts 13:48 And: "Even as he chose + us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy + and without blemish before him in love," Ephesians 1:4 + - number: 2 + text: > + Who teach: That there are various kinds of election of God unto + eternal life: the one general and indefinite, the other particular and + definite; and that the latter in turn is either incomplete, revocable, + non-decisive and conditional, or complete, irrevocable, decisive and + absolute. Likewise: that there is one election unto faith, and another + unto salvation, so that election can be unto justifying faith, without + being a decisive election unto salvation. For this is a fancy of men's + minds, invented regardless of the Scriptures, whereby the doctrine of + election is corrupted, and this golden chain of our salvation is + broken: "And whom he foreordained, them he also called; and whom he + called, them he also justified; and whom he justified, them he also + glorified," Romans 8:30. + - number: 3 + text: > + Who teach: That the good pleasure and purpose of God, of which + Scripture makes mention in the doctrine of election, does not consist + in this, that God chose certain persons rather than others, but in + this that he chose out of all possible conditions (among which are + also the works of the law), or out of the whole order of things, the + act of faith which from its very nature is undeserving, as well as its + incomplete obedience, as a condition of salvation, and that he would + graciously consider this in itself as a complete obedience and count + it worthy of the reward of eternal life. For by this injurious error + the pleasure of God and the merits of Christ are made of none effect, + and men are drawn away by useless questions from the truth of gracious + justification and from the simplicity of Scripture, and this + declaration of the Apostle is charged as untrue: "Who saved us, and + called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but + according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ + Jesus before times eternal." 2 Timothy 1:9. + - number: 4 + text: > + Who teach: that in the election unto faith this condition is + beforehand demanded, namely, that man should use the light of nature + aright, be pious, humble, meek, and fit for eternal life, as if on + these things election were in any way dependent. For this savors of + the teaching of Pelagius, and is opposed to the doctrine of the + apostle, when he writes: "Among whom we also all once lived in the + lust of our flesh, doing the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and + were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest; but God being rich + in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were + dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by + grace have ye been saved), and raised us up with him, and made us to + sit with him in heavenly places, in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to + come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in kindness + towards us in Christ Jesus; for by grace have ye been saved through + faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not of + works, that no man should glory," Ephesians 2:3-9. + - number: 5 + text: > + Who teach: That the incomplete and non-decisive election of particular + persons to salvation occurred because of a foreseen faith, conversion, + holiness, godliness, which either began or continued for some time; + but that the complete and decisive election occurred because of + foreseen perseverance unto the end in faith, conversion, holiness and + godliness; and that this is the gracious and evangelical worthiness, + for the sake of which he who is chosen, is more worthy than he who is + not chosen; and that therefore faith, the obedience of faith, + holiness, godliness and perseverance are not fruits of the + unchangeable election unto glory, but are conditions, which, being + required beforehand, were foreseen as being met by those who will be + fully elected, and are causes without which the unchangeable election + to glory does not occur. This is repugnant to the entire Scripture, + which constantly inculcates this and similar declarations: "Election is + not out of works, but of him that calleth," Romans 9:11 "As many as were + ordained to eternal life believed," Acts 13:48 "He chose us in him + before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy," Ephesians + 1:4 "Ye did not choose me, but I chose you," John 15:16 "But if it be of + grace, it is no more of works," Romans 11:6 "Herein is love, not that + we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son," 1 John 4:10 + - number: 6 + text: > + Who teach: That not every election unto salvation is unchangeable, but + that some of the elect, any decree of God notwithstanding, can yet + perish and do indeed perish. By which gross error they make God to be + changeable, and destroy the comfort which the godly obtain out of the + firmness of their election, and contradict the Holy Scripture, which + teaches, that the elect can not be lead astray, Matthew 24:24; that + Christ does not lose those whom the Father gave him, John 6:39; and + that God hath also glorified those whom he foreordained, called and + justified. Romans 8:30. + - number: 7 + text: > + Who teach: That there is in this life no fruit and no consciousness of + the unchangeable election to glory, nor any certainty, except that + which depends on a changeable and uncertain condition. For not only is + it absurd to speak of an uncertain certainty, but also contrary to the + experience of the saints, who by virtue of the consciousness of their + election rejoice with the Apostle and praise this favor of God, + Ephesians 1;who according to Christ's admonition rejoice with his + disciples that their names are written in heaven, Luke 10:20; who also + place the consciousness of their election over against the fiery darts + of the devil, asking: "Who shall lay anything to the charge of God's + elect?" Romans 8:33. + - number: 8 + text: > + Who teach: That God, simply by virtue of his righteous will, did not + decide either to leave anyone in the fall of Adam and in the common + state of sin and condemnation, or to pass anyone by in the + communication of grace which is necessary for faith and conversion. + For this is firmly decreed: "He hath mercy on whom he will, and whom + he will he hardeneth," Romans 9:18. And also this: "Unto you it is + given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it + is not given," Matthew 13:11. Likewise: "I thank thee, O Father, Lord + of heaven and earth, that thou didst hide these things from the wise + and understanding, and didst reveal them unto babes; yea, Father, for + so it was well-pleasing in thy sight," Matthew 11:25,26. + - number: 9 + text: > + Who teach: That the reason why God sends the gospel to one people + rather than to another is not merely and solely the good pleasure of + God, but rather the fact that one people is better and worthier than + another to whom the gospel is not communicated. For this Moses denies, + addressing the people of Israel as follows: "Behold unto Jehovah thy + God belongeth heaven and the heaven of heavens, the earth, with all + that is therein. Only Jehovah had a delight in thy fathers to love + him, and he chose their seed after them, even you above all peoples, + as at this day," Deuteronomy 10:14,15. And Christ said: "Woe unto thee, + Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the might works had been + done in Tyre and Sidon which were done in you, they would have + repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes," Matthew 11:21. + - name: Of the Death of Christ, and the Redemption of Men Thereby + number: 2 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Since therefore we are unable to make that satisfaction in our own + persons, or to deliver ourselves from the wrath of God, he hath been + pleased in his infinite mercy to give his only begotten Son, for our + surety, who was made sin, and became a curse for us and in our stead, + that he might make satisfaction to divine justice on our behalf. + - number: 2 + text: > + The death of the Son of God is the only and most perfect sacrifice and + satisfaction for sin; and is of infinite worth and value, abundantly + sufficient to expiate the sins of the whole world. + - number: 3 + text: > + This death derives its infinite value and dignity from these + considerations, because the person who submitted to it was not only + really man, and perfectly holy, but also the only begotten Son of God, + of the same eternal and infinite essence with the Father and the Holy + Spirit, which qualifications were necessary to constitute him a Savior + for us; and because it was attended with a sense of the wrath and + curse of God due to us for sin. + - number: 4 + text: > + Moreover, the promise of the gospel is, that whosoever believeth in + Christ crucified, shall not perish, but have everlasting life. This + promise, together with the command to repent and believe, ought to be + declared and published to all nations, and to all persons + promiscuously and without distinction, to whom God out of his good + pleasure sends the gospel. + - number: 5 + text: > + And, whereas many who are called by the gospel, do not repent, nor + believe in Christ, but perish in unbelief; this is not owing to any + defect or insufficiency in the sacrifice offered by Christ upon the + cross, but is wholly to be imputed to themselves. + - number: 6 + text: > + But as many as truly believe, and are delivered and saved from sin and + destruction through the death of Christ, are indebted for this benefit + solely to the grace of God, given them in Christ from everlasting, and + not to any merit of their own. + - number: 7 + text: > + For this was the sovereign counsel, and most gracious will and purpose + of God the Father, that the quickening and saving efficacy of the most + precious death of his Son should extend to all the elect, for + bestowing upon them alone the gift of justifying faith, thereby to + bring them infallibly to salvation: that is, it was the will of God, + that Christ by the blood of the cross, whereby he confirmed the new + covenant, should effectually redeem out of every people, tribe, + nation, and language, all those, and those only, who were from + eternity chosen to salvation, and given to him by the Father; that he + should confer upon them faith, which together with all the other + saving gifts of the Holy Spirit, he purchased for them by his death; + should purge them from all sin, both original and actual, whether + committed before or after believing; and having faithfully preserved + them even to the end, should at last bring them free from every spot + and blemish to the enjoyment of glory in his own presence forever. + - number: 8 + text: > + This purpose proceeding from everlasting love towards the elect, has + from the beginning of the world to this day been powerfully + accomplished, and will henceforward still continue to be accomplished, + notwithstanding all the ineffectual opposition of the gates of hell, + so that the elect in due time may be gathered together into one, and + that there never may be wanting a church composed of believers, the + foundation of which is laid in the blood of Christ, which may + steadfastly love, and faithfully serve him as their Savior, who as a + bridegroom for his bride, laid down his life for them upon the cross, + and which may celebrate his praises here and through all eternity. + rejections: + - number: 1 + text: > + I Who teach: That God the Father has ordained his Son to the death of + the cross without a certain and definite decree to save any, so that + the necessity, profitableness and worth of what Christ merited by his + death might have existed, and might remain in all its parts complete, + perfect and intact, even if the merited redemption had never in fact + been applied to any person. For this doctrine tends to the despising + of the wisdom of the Father and of the merits of Jesus Christ, and is + contrary to Scripture. For thus saith our Savior: "I lay down my life + for the sheep, and I know them," John 10:15,27. And the prophet Isaiah + saith concerning the Savior: "When thou shalt make his soul an + offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, + and the pleasure of Jehovah shall prosper in his hand," Isaiah 53:10. + Finally, this contradicts the article of faith according to which we + believe the catholic Christian church. + - number: 2 + text: > + Who teach: That it was not the purpose of the death of Christ that he + should confirm the new covenant of grace through his blood, but only + that he should acquire for the Father the mere right to establish with + man such a covenant as he might please, whether of grace or of works. + For this is repugnant to Scripture which teaches that Christ has + become the Surety and Mediator of a better, that is, the new covenant, + and that a testament is of force where death has occurred. Hebrews + 7:22; 9:15,17. + - number: 3 + text: > + Who teach: That Christ by his satisfaction merited neither salvation + itself for anyone, nor faith, whereby this satisfaction of Christ unto + salvation is effectually appropriated; but that he merited for the + Father only the authority or the perfect will to deal again with man, + and to prescribe new conditions as he might desire, obedience to + which, however, depended on the free will of man, so that it therefore + might have come to pass that either none or all should fulfill these + conditions. For these adjudge too contemptuously of the death of + Christ, do in no wise acknowledge the most important fruit or benefit + thereby gained, and bring again out of hell the Pelagian error. + - number: 4 + text: > + Who teach: That the new covenant of grace, which God the Father + through the mediation of the death of Christ, made with man, does not + herein consist that we by faith, in as much as it accepts the merits + of Christ, are justified before God and saved, but in the fact that + God having revoked the demand of perfect obedience of the law, regards + faith itself and the obedience of faith, although imperfect, as the + perfect obedience of the law, and does esteem it worthy of the reward + of eternal life through grace. For these contradict the Scriptures: + "Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in + Christ Jesus: whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through + faith in his blood," Romans 3:24,25. And these proclaim, as did the + wicked Socinus, a new and strange justification of man before God, + against the consensus of the whole church. + - number: 5 + text: > + Who teach: That all men have been accepted unto the state of + reconciliation and unto the grace of the covenant, so that no one is + worthy of condemnation on account of original sin, and that no one + shall be condemned because of it, but that all are free from the guilt + of original sin. For this opinion is repugnant to Scripture which + teaches that we are by nature children of wrath. Ephesians 2:3. + - number: 6 + text: > + Who use the difference between meriting and appropriating, to the end + that they may instill into the minds of the imprudent and + inexperienced this teaching that God, as far as he is concerned, has + been minded of applying to all equally the benefits gained by the + death of Christ; but that, while some obtain the pardon of sin and + eternal life, and others do not, this difference depends on their own + free will, which joins itself to the grace that is offered without + exception, and that it is not dependent on the special gift of mercy, + which powerfully works in them, that they rather than others should + appropriate unto themselves this grace. For these, while they feign + that they present this distinction, in a sound sense, seek to instill + into the people the destructive poison of the Pelagian errors. + - number: 7 + text: > + Who teach: That Christ neither could die, needed to die, nor did die + for those whom God loved in the highest degree and elected to eternal + life, and did not die for these, since these do not need the death of + Christ. For they contradict the Apostle, who declares: "Christ loved + me, and gave himself for me," Galatians 2:20. Likewise: "Who shall lay + any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth; who + is he that condemneth? It is Christ Jesus that died," Romans 8:33,34, + namely, for them; and the Savior who says: "I lay down my life for the + sheep," John 10:15. And: "This is my commandment, that ye love one + another, even as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, + that a man lay down his life for his friends," John 15:12,13. + - name: Of the Corruption of Man, His Conversion to God, and the Manner Thereof. + number: 3 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Man was originally formed after the image of God. His understanding + was adorned with a true and saving knowledge of his Creator, and of + spiritual things; his heart and will were upright; all his affections + pure; and the whole man was holy; but revolting from God by the + instigation of the devil, and abusing the freedom of his own will, he + forfeited these excellent gifts; and on the contrary entailed on + himself blindness of mind, horrible darkness, vanity and perverseness + of judgment, became wicked, rebellious, and obdurate in heart and + will, and impure in his affections. + - number: 2 + text: > + Man after the fall begat children in his own likeness. A corrupt stock + produced a corrupt offspring. Hence all the posterity of Adam, Christ + only excepted, have derived corruption from their original parent, not + by imitation, as the Pelagians of old asserted, but by the propagation + of a vicious nature. + - number: 3 + text: > + Therefore all men are conceived in sin, and by nature children of + wrath, incapable of saving good, prone to evil, dead in sin, and in + bondage thereto, and without the regenerating grace of the Holy + Spirit, they are neither able nor willing to return to God, to reform + the depravity of their nature, nor to dispose themselves to + reformation. + - number: 4 + text: > + There remain, however, in man since the fall, the glimmerings of + natural light, whereby he retains some knowledge of God, of natural + things, and of the differences between good and evil, and discovers + some regard for virtue, good order in society, and for maintaining an + orderly external deportment. But so far is this light of nature from + being sufficient to bring him to a saving knowledge of God, and to + true conversion, that he is incapable of using it aright even in + things natural and civil. Nay further, this light, such as it is, man + in various ways renders wholly polluted, and holds it in + unrighteousness, by doing which he becomes inexcusable before God. + - number: 5 + text: > + In the same light are we to consider the law of the decalogue, + delivered by God to his peculiar people the Jews, by the hands of + Moses. For though it discovers the greatness of sin, and more and more + convinces man thereof, yet as it neither points out a remedy, nor + imparts strength to extricate him from misery, and thus being weak + through the flesh, leaves the transgressor under the curse, man cannot + by this law obtain saving grace. + - number: 6 + text: > + What therefore neither the light of nature, nor the law could do, that + God performs by the operation of the Holy Spirit through the word or + ministry of reconciliation: which is the glad tidings concerning the + Messiah, by means whereof, it hath pleased God to save such as + believe, as well under the Old, as under the New Testament. + - number: 7 + text: > + This mystery of his will God discovered to but a small number under + the Old Testament; under the New, (the distinction between various + peoples having been removed), he reveals himself to many, without any + distinction of people. The cause of this dispensation is not to be + ascribed to the superior worth of one nation above another, nor to + their making a better use of the light of nature, but results wholly + from the sovereign good pleasure and unmerited love of God. Hence + they, to whom so great and so gracious a blessing is communicated, + above their desert, or rather notwithstanding their demerits, are + bound to acknowledge it with humble and grateful hearts, and with the + apostle to adore, not curiously to pry into the severity and justice + of God's judgments displayed to others, to whom this grace is not + given. + - number: 8 + text: > + As many as are called by the gospel, are unfeignedly called. For God + hath most earnestly and truly shown in his Word, what is pleasing to + him, namely, that those who are called should come to him. He, + moreover, seriously promises eternal life, and rest, to as many as + shall come to him, and believe on him. + - number: 9 + text: > + It is not the fault of the gospel, nor of Christ, offered therein, nor + of God, who calls men by the gospel, and confers upon them various + gifts, that those who are called by the ministry of the word, refuse + to come, and be converted: the fault lies in themselves; some of whom + when called, regardless of their danger, reject the word of life; + others, though they receive it, suffer it not to make a lasting + impression on their heart; therefore, their joy, arising only from a + temporary faith, soon vanishes, and they fall away; while others choke + the seed of the word by perplexing cares, and the pleasures of this + world, and produce no fruit. - This our Savior teaches in the parable + of the sower. Matthew 13. + - number: 10 + text: > + But that others who are called by the gospel, obey the call, and are + converted, is not to be ascribed to the proper exercise of free will, + whereby one distinguishes himself above others, equally furnished with + grace sufficient for faith and conversions, as the proud heresy of + Pelagius maintains; but it must be wholly ascribed to God, who as he + has chosen his own from eternity in Christ, so he confers upon them + faith and repentance, rescues them from the power of darkness, and + translates them into the kingdom of his own Son, that they may show + forth the praises of him, who hath called them out of darkness into + his marvelous light; and may glory not in themselves, but in the Lord + according to the testimony of the apostles in various places. + - number: 11 + text: > + But when God accomplishes his good pleasure in the elect, or works in + them true conversion, he not only causes the gospel to be externally + preached to them, and powerfully illumines their minds by his Holy + Spirit, that they may rightly understand and discern the things of the + Spirit of God; but by the efficacy of the same regenerating Spirit, + pervades the inmost recesses of the man; he opens the closed, and + softens the hardened heart, and circumcises that which was + uncircumcised, infuses new qualities into the will, which though + heretofore dead, he quickens; from being evil, disobedient and + refractory, he renders it good, obedient, and pliable; actuates and + strengthens it, that like a good tree, it may bring forth the fruits + of good actions. + - number: 12 + text: > + And this is the regeneration so highly celebrated in Scripture, and + denominated a new creation: a resurrection from the dead, a making + alive, which God works in us without our aid. But this is in no wise + effected merely by the external preaching of the gospel, by moral + suasion, or such a mode of operation, that after God has performed his + part, it still remains in the power of man to be regenerated or not, + to be converted, or to continue unconverted; but it is evidently a + supernatural work, most powerful, and at the same time most + delightful, astonishing, mysterious, and ineffable; not inferior in + efficacy to creation, or the resurrection from the dead, as the + Scripture inspired by the author of this work declares; so that all in + whose heart God works in this marvelous manner, are certainly, + infallibly, and effectually regenerated, and do actually believe. - + Whereupon the will thus renewed, is not only actuated and influenced + by God, but in consequence of this influence, becomes itself active. + Wherefore also, man is himself rightly said to believe and repent, by + virtue of that grace received. + - number: 13 + text: > + The manner of this operation cannot be fully comprehended by believers + in this life. Notwithstanding which, they rest satisfied with knowing + and experiencing, that by this grace of God they are enabled to + believe with the heart, and love their Savior. + - number: 14 + text: > + Faith is therefore to be considered as the gift of God, not on account + of its being offered by God to man, to be accepted or rejected at his + pleasure; but because it is in reality conferred, breathed, and + infused into him; or even because God bestows the power or ability to + believe, and then expects that man should by the exercise of his own + free will, consent to the terms of that salvation, and actually + believe in Christ; but because he who works in man both to will and to + do, and indeed all things in all, produces both the will to believe, + and the act of believing also. + - number: 15 + text: > + God is under no obligation to confer this grace upon any; for how can + he be indebted to man, who had no precious gifts to bestow, as a + foundation for such recompense? Nay, who has nothing of his own but + sin and falsehood? He therefore who becomes the subject of this grace, + owes eternal gratitude to God, and gives him thanks forever. Whoever + is not made partaker thereof, is either altogether regardless of these + spiritual gifts, and satisfied with his own condition; or is in no + apprehension of danger, and vainly boasts the possession of that which + he has not. With respect to those who make an external profession of + faith, and live regular lives, we are bound, after the example of the + apostle, to judge and speak of them in the most favorable manner. For + the secret recesses of the heart are unknown to us. And as to others, + who have not yet been called, it is our duty to pray for them to God, + who calls the things that are not, as if they were. But we are in no + wise to conduct ourselves towards them with haughtiness, as if we had + made ourselves to differ. + - number: 16 + text: > + But as man by the fall did not cease to be a creature, endowed with + understanding and will, nor did sin which pervaded the whole race of + mankind, deprive him of the human nature, but brought upon him + depravity and spiritual death; so also this grace of regeneration does + not treat men as senseless stocks and blocks, nor take away their will + and its properties, neither does violence thereto; but spiritually + quickens, heals, corrects, and at the same time sweetly and powerfully + bends it; that where carnal rebellion and resistance formerly + prevailed, a ready and sincere spiritual obedience begins to reign; in + which the true and spiritual restoration and freedom of our will + consist. Wherefore unless the admirable author of every good work + wrought in us, man could have no hope of recovering from his fall by + his own free will, by the abuse of which, in a state of innocence, he + plunged himself into ruin. + - number: 17 + text: > + As the almighty operation of God, whereby he prolongs and supports + this our natural life, does not exclude, but requires the use of + means, by which God of his infinite mercy and goodness hath chosen to + exert his influence, so also the before mentioned supernatural + operation of God, by which we are regenerated, in no wise excludes, or + subverts the use of the gospel, which the most wise God has ordained + to be the seed of regeneration, and food of the soul. Wherefore, as + the apostles, and teachers who succeeded them, piously instructed the + people concerning this grace of God, to his glory, and the abasement + of all pride, and in the meantime, however, neglected not to keep them + by the sacred precepts of the gospel in the exercise of the Word, + sacraments and discipline; so even to this day, be it far from either + instructors or instructed to presume to tempt God in the church by + separating what he of his good pleasure hath most intimately joined + together. For grace is conferred by means of admonitions; and the more + readily we perform our duty, the more eminent usually is this blessing + of God working in us, and the more directly is his work advanced; to + whom alone all the glory both of means, and of their saving fruit and + efficacy is forever due. Amen. + rejections: + - number: 1 + text: > + Who teach: That it cannot properly be said, that original sin in + itself suffices to condemn the whole human race, or to deserve + temporal and eternal punishment. For these contradict the Apostle, who + declares: "Therefore as through one man sin entered into the world, + and death through sin, and so death passed unto all men, for that all + sinned," Romans 5:12. And: "The judgment came of one unto + condemnation," Romans 5:16. And: "The wages of sin is death," Romans + 6:23. + - number: 2 + text: > + Who teach: That the spiritual gifts, or the good qualities and + virtues, such as: goodness, holiness, righteousness, could not belong + to the will of man when he was first created, and that these, + therefore, could not have been separated therefrom in the fall. For + such is contrary to the description of the image of God, which the + Apostle gives in Ephesians 4:24, where he declares that it consists in + righteousness and holiness, which undoubtedly belong to the will. + - number: 3 + text: > + Who teach: That in spiritual death the spiritual gifts are not + separate from the will of man, since the will in itself has never been + corrupted, but only hindered through the darkness of the understanding + and the irregularity of the affections; and that, these hindrances + having been removed, the will can then bring into operation its native + powers, that is, that the will of itself is able to will and to + choose, or not to will and not to choose, all manner of good which may + be presented to it. This is an innovation and an error, and tends to + elevate the powers of the free will, contrary to the declaration of + the Prophet: "The heart is deceitful above all things, and it is + exceedingly corrupt," Jeremiah 17:9; and of the Apostle: "Among whom + (sons of disobedience) we also all once lived in the lusts of the + flesh, doing the desires of the flesh and of the mind," Ephesians 2:3. + - number: 4 + text: > + Who teach: That the unregenerate man is not really nor utterly dead in + sin, nor destitute of all powers unto spiritual good, but that he can + yet hunger and thirst after righteousness and life, and offer the + sacrifice of a contrite and broken spirit, which is pleasing to God. + For these are contrary to the express testimony of Scripture. "Ye were + dead through trespasses and sins," Ephesians 2:1,5; and: "Every + imagination of the thought of his heart are only evil continually," + Genesis 6:5; 8:21. Moreover, to hunger and thirst after deliverance + from misery, and after life, and to offer unto God the sacrifice of a + broken spirit, is peculiar to the regenerate and those that are called + blessed Psalm 51:10, 19; Matthew 5:6 + - number: 5 + text: > + Who teach: That the corrupt and natural man can so well use the common + grace (by which they understand the light of nature), or the gifts + still left him after the fall, that he can gradually gain by their + good use a greater, namely, the evangelical or saving grace and + salvation itself. And that in this way God on his part shows himself + ready to reveal Christ unto all men, since he applies to all + sufficiently and efficiently the means necessary to conversion. For + the experience of all ages and the Scriptures do both testify that + this is untrue. "He showeth his Word unto Jacob, his statues and his + ordinances unto Israel. He hath not dealt so with any nation: and as + for his ordinances they have not known them," Psalm 147:19, 20. "Who + in the generations gone by suffered all the nations to walk in their + own way," Acts 14:16. And: "And they (Paul and his companions) having + been forbidden of the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia, and when + they were come over against Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia, + and the Spirit suffered them not," Acts 16:6, 7. + - number: 6 + text: > + Who teach: That in the true conversion of man no new qualities, powers + or gifts can be infused by God into the will, and that therefore faith + through which we are first converted, and because of which we are + called believers, is not a quality or gift infused by God, but only an + act of man, and that it can not be said to be a gift, except in + respect of the power to attain to this faith. For thereby they + contradict the Holy Scriptures, which declare that God infuses new + qualities of faith, of obedience, and of the consciousness of his love + into our hearts: "I will put my law in their inward parts, and in + their hearts will I write it," Jeremiah 31:33. And: "I will pour water + upon him that is thirsty, and streams upon the dry ground; I will pour + my spirit upon thy seed," Isaiah 44:3. And: "The love of God hath been + shed abroad in our hearts through the Holy Spirit which hath been + given us," Romans 5:5. This is also repugnant to the continuous + practice of the Church, which prays by the mouth of the Prophet thus: + "Turn thou me, and I shall be turned," Jeremiah 31:18. + - number: 7 + text: > + Who teach: that the grace whereby we are converted to God is only a + gentle advising, or (as others explain it), that this is the noblest + manner of working in the conversion of man, and that this manner of + working, which consists in advising, is most in harmony with man's + nature; and that there is no reason why this advising grace alone + should not be sufficient to make the natural man spiritual, indeed, + that God does not produce the consent of the will except through this + manner of advising; and that the power of the divine working, whereby + it surpasses the working of Satan, consists in this, that God promises + eternal, while Satan promises only temporal goods. But this is + altogether Pelagian and contrary to the whole Scripture which, besides + this, teaches another and far more powerful and divine manner of the + Holy Spirit's working in the conversion of man, as in Ezekiel: "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 a heart of flesh," Ezekiel 36:26. + - number: 8 + text: > + Who teach: That God in the regeneration of man does not use such + powers of his omnipotence as potently and infallibly bend man's will + to faith and conversion; but that all the works of grace having been + accomplished, which God employs to convert man, man may yet so resist + God and the Holy Spirit, when God intends man's regeneration and wills + to regenerate him, and indeed that man often does so resist that he + prevents entirely his regeneration, and that it therefore remains in + man's power to be regenerated or not. For this is nothing less than + the denial of all the efficiency of God's grace in our conversion, and + the subjecting of the working of Almighty God to the will of man, + which is contrary to the Apostles, who teach: "That we believe + according to the working of the strength of his power," Ephesians + 1:19. And: "That God fulfills every desire of goodness and every work + of faith with power," 2 Thessalonians 1:11. And: "That his divine + power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and + godliness," 2 Peter 1:3. + - number: 9 + text: > + Who teach: That grace and free will are partial causes, which together + work the beginning of conversion, and that grace, in order of working, + does not precede the working of the will; that is, that God does not + efficiently help the will of man unto conversion until the will of man + moves and determines to do this. For the ancient Church has long ago + condemned this doctrine of the Pelagians according to the words of the + Apostle: "So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that + runneth, but of God that hath mercy," Romans 9:16. Likewise: "For who + maketh thee to differ? and what hast thou that thou didst not + receive?" 1 Corinthians 4:7. And: "For it is God who worketh in you + both to will and to work, for his good pleasure," Philippians 2:13. + - name: Of the Perseverance of the Saints + number: 4 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Whom God calls, according to his purpose, to the communion of his Son, + our Lord Jesus Christ, and regenerates by the Holy Spirit, he delivers + also from the dominion and slavery of sin in this life; though not + altogether from the body of sin, and from the infirmities of the + flesh, so long as they continue in this world. + - number: 2 + text: > + Hence spring daily sins of infirmity, and hence spots adhere to the + best works of the saints; which furnish them with constant matter for + humiliation before God, and flying for refuge to Christ crucified; for + mortifying the flesh more and more by the spirit of prayer, and by + holy exercises of piety; and for pressing forward to the goal of + perfection, till being at length delivered from this body of death, + they are brought to reign with the Lamb of God in heaven. + - number: 3 + text: > + By reason of these remains of indwelling sin, and the temptations of + sin and of the world, those who are converted could not persevere in a + state of grace, if left to their own strength. But God is faithful, + who having conferred grace, mercifully confirms, and powerfully + preserves them herein, even to the end. + - number: 4 + text: > + Although the weakness of the flesh cannot prevail against the power of + God, who confirms and preserves true believers in a state of grace, + yet converts are not always so influenced and actuated by the Spirit + of God, as not in some particular instances sinfully to deviate from + the guidance of divine grace, so as to be seduced by, and to comply + with the lusts of the flesh; they must, therefore, be constant in + watching and in prayer, that they be not led into temptation. When + these are neglected, they are not only liable to be drawn into great + and heinous sins, by Satan, the world and the flesh, but sometimes by + the righteous permission of God actually fall into these evils. This, + the lamentable fall of David, Peter, and other saints described in + Holy Scripture, demonstrates. + - number: 5 + text: > + By such enormous sins, however, they very highly offend God, incur a + deadly guilt, grieve the Holy Spirit, interrupt the exercise of faith, + very grievously wound their consciences, and sometimes lose the sense + of God's favor, for a time, until on their returning into the right + way of serious repentance, the light of God's fatherly countenance + again shines upon them. + - number: 6 + text: > + But God, who is rich in mercy, according to his unchangeable purpose + of election, does not wholly withdraw the Holy Spirit from his own + people, even in their melancholy falls; nor suffers them to proceed so + far as to lose the grace of adoption, and forfeit the state of + justification, or to commit sins unto death; nor does he permit them + to be totally deserted, and to plunge themselves into everlasting + destruction. + - number: 7 + text: > + For in the first place, in these falls he preserves them in the + incorruptible seed of regeneration from perishing, or being totally + lost; and again, by his Word and Spirit, certainly and effectually + renews them to repentance, to a sincere and godly sorrow for their + sins, that they may seek and obtain remission in the blood of the + Mediator, may again experience the favor of a reconciled God, through + faith adore his mercies, and henceforward more diligently work out + their own salvation with fear and trembling. + - number: 8 + text: > + Thus, it is not in consequence of their own merits, or strength, but + of God's free mercy, that they do not totally fall from faith and + grace, nor continue and perish finally in their backslidings; which, + with respect to themselves, is not only possible, but would + undoubtedly happen; but with respect to God, it is utterly impossible, + since his counsel cannot be changed, nor his promise fail, neither can + the call according to his purpose be revoked, nor the merit, + intercession and preservation of Christ be rendered ineffectual, nor + the sealing of the Holy Spirit be frustrated or obliterated. + - number: 9 + text: > + Of this preservation of the elect to salvation, and of their + perseverance in the faith, true believers for themselves may and ought + to obtain assurance according to the measure of their faith, whereby + they arrive at the certain persuasion, that they ever will continue + true and living members of the church; and that they experience + forgiveness of sins, and will at last inherit eternal life. + - number: 10 + text: > + This assurance, however, is not produced by any peculiar revelation + contrary to, or independent of the Word of God; but springs from faith + in God's promises, which he has most abundantly revealed in his Word + for our comfort; from the testimony of the Holy Spirit, witnessing + with our spirit, that we are children and heirs of God, Romans 8:16; + and lastly, from a serious and holy desire to preserve a good + conscience, and to perform good works. And if the elect of God were + deprived of this solid comfort, that they shall finally obtain the + victory, and of this infallible pledge or earnest of eternal glory, + they would be of all men the most miserable. + - number: 11 + text: > + The Scripture moreover testifies, that believers in this life have to + struggle with various carnal doubts, and that under grievous + temptations they are not always sensible of this full assurance of + faith and certainty of persevering. But God, who is the Father of all + consolation, does not suffer them to be tempted above that they are + able, but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that + they may be able to bear it, 1 Corinthians 10:13, and by the Holy + Spirit again inspires them with the comfortable assurance of + persevering. + - number: 12 + text: > + This certainty of perseverance, however, is so far from exciting in + believers a spirit of pride, or of rendering them carnally secure, + that on the contrary, it is the real source of humility, filial + reverence, true piety, patience in every tribulation, fervent prayers, + constancy in suffering, and in confessing the truth, and of solid + rejoicing in God: so that the consideration of this benefit should + serve as an incentive to the serious and constant practice of + gratitude and good works, as appears from the testimonies of + Scripture, and the examples of the saints. + - number: 13 + text: > + Neither does renewed confidence or persevering produce licentiousness, + or a disregard to piety in those who are recovering from backsliding; + but it renders them much more careful and solicitous to continue in + the ways of the Lord, which he hath ordained, that they who walk + therein may maintain an assurance of persevering, lest by abusing his + fatherly kindness, God should turn away his gracious countenance from + them, to behold which is to the godly dearer than life: the + withdrawing thereof is more bitter than death, and they in consequence + hereof should fall into more grievous torments of conscience. + - number: 14 + text: > + And as it hath pleased God, by the preaching of the gospel, to begin + this work of grace in us, so he preserves, continues, and perfects it + by the hearing and reading of his Word, by meditation thereon, and by + the exhortations, threatenings, and promises thereof, as well as by + the use of the sacraments. + - number: 15 + text: > + The carnal mind is unable to comprehend this doctrine of the + perseverance of the saints, and the certainty thereof; which God hath + most abundantly revealed in his Word, for the glory of his name, and + the consolation of pious souls, and which he impresses upon the hearts + of the faithful. Satan abhors it; the world ridicules it; the ignorant + and hypocrite abuse, and heretics oppose it; but the spouse of Christ + hath always most tenderly loved and constantly defended it, as an + inestimable treasure; and God, against whom neither counsel nor + strength can prevail, will dispose her to continue this conduct to the + end. Now, to this one God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, be honor and + glory, forever. AMEN. + rejections: + - number: 1 + text: > + Who teach: That the perseverance of the true believers is not a fruit + of election, or a gift of God, gained by the death of Christ, but a + condition of the new covenant, which (as they declare) man before his + decisive election and justification must fulfill through his free + will. For the Holy Scripture testifies that this follows out of + election, and is given the elect in virtue of the death, the + resurrection and intercession of Christ: "But the elect obtained it + and the rest were hardened," Romans 11:7. Likewise: "He that spared + not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not + also with him freely give us all things? Who shall lay anything to the + charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth; who is he that + condemneth? It is Christ Jesus that died, yea rather, that was raised + from the dead, who is at the right hand of God, who also maketh + intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?" + Romans 8:32-35. + - number: 2 + text: > + Who teach: That God does indeed provide the believer with sufficient + powers to persevere, and is ever ready to preserve these in him, if he + will do his duty; but that though all things, which are necessary to + persevere in faith and which God will use to preserve faith, are made + use of, it even then ever depends on the pleasure of the will whether + it will persevere or not. For this idea contains an outspoken + Pelagianism, and while it would make men free, it makes them robbers + of God's honor, contrary to the prevailing agreement of the + evangelical doctrine, which takes from man all cause of boasting, and + ascribes all the praise for this favor to the grace of God alone; and + contrary to the Apostle, who declares: "That it is God, who shall also + confirm you unto the end, that ye be unreprovable in the day of our + Lord Jesus Christ," 1 Corinthians 1:8. + - number: 3 + text: > + Who teach: That the true believers and regenerate not only can fall + from justifying faith and likewise from grace and salvation wholly and + to the end, but indeed often do fall from this and are lost forever. + For this conception makes powerless the grace, justification, + regeneration, and continued keeping by Christ, contrary to the + expressed words of the Apostle Paul: "That while we were yet sinners + Christ died for us. Much more then, being justified by his blood, + shall we be saved from the wrath of God through him," Romans 5:8,9. + And contrary to the Apostle John: "Whosoever is begotten of God doeth + no sin, because his seed abideth in him; and he can not sin, because + he is begotten of God," 1 John 3:9. And also contrary to the words of + Jesus Christ: "I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never + perish, and no one shall snatch them out of my hand. My Father who + hath given them to me, is greater than all; and no one is able to + snatch them out of the Father's hand," John 10:28,29. + - number: 4 + text: > + Who teach: That true believers and regenerate can sin the sin unto + death or against the Holy Spirit. Since the same Apostle John, after + having spoken in the fifth chapter of his first epistle, vss. 16 and + 17, of those who sin unto death and having forbidden to pray for them, + immediately adds to this in vs. 18: "We know that whosoever is + begotten of God sinneth not (meaning a sin of that character), but he + that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and the evil one toucheth him + not," 1 John 5:18. + - number: 5 + text: > + Who teach: That without a special revelation we can have no certainty + of future perseverance in this life. For by this doctrine the sure + comfort of all believers is taken away in this life, and the doubts of + the papist are again introduced into the church, while the Holy + Scriptures constantly deduce this assurance, not from a special and + extraordinary revelation, but from the marks proper to the children of + God and from the constant promises of God. So especially the Apostle + Paul: "No creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God, + which is in Christ Jesus our Lord," Romans 8:39. And John declares: + "And he that keepeth his commandments abideth in him, and he in him. + And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he gave + us," 1 John 3:24. + - number: 6 + text: > + Who teach: That the doctrine of the certainty of perseverance and of + salvation from its own character and nature is a cause of indolence + and is injurious to godliness, good morals, prayers and other holy + exercises, but that on the contrary it is praiseworthy to doubt. For + these show that they do not know the power of divine grace and the + working of the indwelling Holy Spirit. And they contradict the Apostle + John, who teaches the opposite with express words in his first + epistle: "Beloved, now are we the children of God, and it is not yet + made manifest what we shall be. We know that, if he shall be + manifested, we shall be like him, for we shall see him even as he is. + And every one that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he + is pure," 1 John 3:2, 3. Furthermore, these are contradicted by the + example of the saints, both of the Old and New Testament, who though + they were assured of their perseverance and salvation, were + nevertheless constant in prayers and other exercises of godliness. + - number: 7 + text: > + Who teach: That the faith of those, who believe for a time, does not + differ from justifying and saving faith except only in duration. For + Christ himself, in Matthew 13:20, Luke 8:13, and in other places, + evidently notes, besides this duration, a threefold difference between + those who believe only for a time and true believers, when he declares + that the former receive the seed in stony ground, but the latter in + the good ground or heart; that the former are without root, but that + the latter have a firm root; that the former are without fruit, but + that the latter bring forth their fruit in various measure, with + constancy and steadfastness. + - number: 8 + text: > + Who teach: That it is not absurd that one having lost his first + regeneration, is again and even often born anew. For these deny by + this doctrine the incorruptibleness of the seed of God, whereby we are + born again. Contrary to the testimony of the Apostle Peter: "Having + been begotten again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible," I + Peter 1:23. + - number: 9 + text: > + Who teach: That Christ has in no place prayed that believers should + infallibly continue in faith. For they contradict Christ himself, who + says: "I have prayed for thee (Simon), that thy faith fail not," Luke + 22:32; and the Evangelist John, who declares, that Christ has not + prayed for the Apostles only, but also for those who through their + word would believer: "Holy Father, keep them in thy name," and: "I + pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou + shouldest keep them from the evil one," John 17:11, 15, 20. + +conclusion: | + + And this is the perspicuous, simple, and ingenious declaration of the orthodox + doctrine respecting the five articles which have been controverted in the + Belgic churches; and the rejection of the errors, with which they have for + some time been troubled This doctrine, the Synod judges to be drawn from the + Word of God, and to be agreeable to the confessions of the Reformed churches + Whence it clearly appears, that some whom such conduct by no means became, + have violated all truth, equity, and charity, in wishing to persuade the + public + + That the doctrine of the Reformed churches concerning predestination, and the + points annexed to it, by its own genius and necessary tendency, leads off the + minds of men from all piety and religion; that it is an opiate administered by + the flesh and by the devil, and the stronghold of Satan, where he lies in wait + for all; and from which he wounds multitudes, and mortally strikes through + many with the darts both of despair and security; that it makes God the author + of sin, unjust, tyrannical, hypocritical; that it is nothing more than + interpolated Stoicism, Manicheism, Libertinism, Turcism; that it renders men + carnally secure, since they are persuaded by it that nothing can hinder the + salvation of the elect, let them live as they please; and therefore, that they + may safely perpetrate every species of the most atrocious crimes; and that, if + the reprobate should even perform truly all the works of the saints, their + obedience would not in the least contribute to their salvation; that the same + doctrine teaches, that God, by a mere arbitrary act of his will, without the + least respect or view to sin, has predestinated the greatest part of the world + to eternal damnation; and, has created them for this very purpose; that in the + same manner in which the election is the fountain and cause of faith and good + works, reprobation is the cause of unbelief and impiety; that many children of + the faithful are torn, guiltless, from their mothers' breasts, and + tyrannically plunged into hell; so that, neither baptism, nor the prayers of + the Church at their baptism, can at all profit by them;" and many other things + of the same kind, which the Reformed Churches not only do not acknowledge, but + even detest with their whole soul Wherefore, this Synod of Dort, in the name + of the Lord, conjures as many as piously call upon the name of our Savior + Jesus Christ, to judge of the faith of the Reformed Churches, not from the + calumnies, which, on every side, are heaped upon it; nor from the private + expressions of a few among ancient and modern teachers, often dishonestly + quoted, or corrupted, and wrested to a meaning quite foreign to their + intention; but from the public confessions of the Churches themselves, and + from the declaration of the orthodox doctrine, confirmed by the unanimous + consent of all and each of the members of the whole Synod Moreover, the Synod + warns calumniators themselves, to consider the terrible judgment of God which + awaits them, for bearing false witness against the confessions of so many + Churches, for distressing the consciences of the weak; and for laboring to + render suspected the society of the truly faithful Finally, this Synod exhorts + all their brethren in the gospel of Christ, to conduct themselves piously and + religiously in handling this doctrine, both in the universities and churches; + to direct it, as well in discourse, as in writing, to the glory of the Divine + Name, to holiness of life, and to the consolation of afflicted souls; to + regulate, by the Scripture, according to the analogy of faith, not only their + sentiments, but also their language; and, to abstain from all those phrases + which exceed the limits necessary to be observed in ascertaining the genuine + sense of the holy Scriptures; and may furnish insolent sophists with a just + pretext for violently assailing, or even vilifying, the doctrine of the + Reformed Churches. + + May Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who, seated at the Father's right hand, + gives gifts to men, sanctify us in the truth, bring to the truth those who + err, shut the mouths of the calumniators of sound doctrine, and endue the + faithful minister of his Word with the spirit of wisdom and discretion, that + all their discourses may tend to the glory of God, and the edification of + those who hear them AMEN +... diff --git a/data/three-forms-of-unity/heidelberg-catechism.yaml b/data/three-forms-of-unity/heidelberg-catechism.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..6698b774fd01c946a740582cd91ec03d0d79f3e5 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/three-forms-of-unity/heidelberg-catechism.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,3545 @@ +--- +name: Heidelberg Catechism +publication_year: 1563 +type: catechism +image: heidelberg.jpg +recommended_reading: + - heidelberg +days: + - number: 1 + questions: + - question: >- + What is thy only comfort in life and death? + number: 1 + answer: >- + That I with body and soul, both in life and death,[a] am not my + own,[b] but belong unto my faithful Saviour Jesus Christ;[c] who, with + his precious blood, has fully satisfied for all my sins,[d] and + delivered me from all the power of the devil;[e] and so preserves + me[f] that without the will of my heavenly Father, not a hair can fall + from my head;[g] yea, that all things must be subservient to my + salvation,[h] and therefore, by his Holy Spirit, He also assures me of + eternal life,[i] and makes me sincerely willing and ready, henceforth, + to live unto him.[j] + verses: + a: + - Rom.14.7 + - Rom.14.8 + b: + - 1Cor.6.19 + c: + - 1Cor.3.23 + - Titus.2.14 + d: + - 1Pet.1.18 + - 1Pet.1.19 + - 1John.1.7 + - 1John.2.2 + - 1John.2.12 + e: + - Heb.2.14 + - 1John.3.8 + - John.8.34 + - John.8.35 + - John.8.36 + f: + - John.6.39 + - John.10.28 + - 2Thess.3.3 + - 1Pet.1.5 + g: + - Matt.10.29 + - Matt.10.30 + - Matt.10.31 + - Luke.21.18 + h: + - Rom.8.28 + i: + - 2Cor.1.20 + - 2Cor.1.21 + - 2Cor.1.22 + - 2Cor.5.5 + - Eph.1.13 + - Eph.1.14 + - Rom.8.16 + j: + - Rom.8.14 + - 1John.3.3 + - question: >- + How many things are necessary for thee to know, that thou, enjoying + this comfort, mayest live and die happily? + number: 2 + answer: >- + Three;[a] the first, how great my sins and miseries are;[b] the + second, how I may be delivered from all my sins and miseries;[c] the + third, how I shall express my gratitude to God for such + deliverance.[d] + verses: + a: + - Matt.11.28 + - Matt.11.29 + - Matt.11.30 + - Luke.24.46 + - Luke.24.47 + - Luke.24.48 + - 1Cor.6.11 + - Titus.3.3 + - Titus.3.4 + - Titus.3.5 + - Titus.3.6 + - Titus.3.7 + b: + - John.9.41 + - John.15.22 + c: + - John.17.3 + - Acts.4.12 + - Acts.10.43 + d: + - Eph.5.8 + - Eph.5.9 + - Eph.5.10 + - Eph.5.11 + - 1Pet.2.9 + - 1Pet.2.10 + - Rom.6.1 + - Rom.6.2 + - Rom.6.12 + - Rom.6.13 + - number: 2 + questions: + - question: >- + Whence knowest thou thy misery? + number: 3 + answer: >- + Out of the law of God.[a] + verses: + a: + - Rom.3.20 + - question: >- + What does the law of God require of us? + number: 4 + answer: >- + Christ teaches us that briefly, Matt. 22:37-40, "Thou shalt love the + Lord thy God with all thy heart, with all thy soul, and with all thy + mind, and with all thy strength. This is the first and the great + commandment; and the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy + neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and + the prophets."[a] + verses: + a: + - Deut.6.5 + - Lev.19.18 + - Mark.12.30 + - Luke.10.27 + - question: >- + Canst thou keep all these things perfectly? + number: 5 + answer: >- + In no wise;[a] for I am prone by nature to hate God and my + neighbour.[b] + verses: + a: + - Rom.3.10 + - Rom.3.20 + - Rom.3.23 + - 1John.1.8 + - 1John.1.10 + b: + - Rom.8.7 + - Eph.2.3 + - Titus.3.3 + - Gen.6.5 + - Gen.8.21 + - Jer.17.9 + - Rom.7.23 + - number: 3 + questions: + - question: >- + Did God then create man so wicked and perverse? + number: 6 + answer: >- + By no means; but God created man good,[a] and after his own image,[b] + in true righteousness and holiness, that he might rightly know God his + Creator, heartily love him and live with him in eternal happiness to + glorify and praise him.[c] + verses: + a: + - Gen.1.31 + b: + - Gen.1.26 + - Gen.1.27 + c: + - Col.3.9 + - Col.3.10 + - Eph.4.23 + - Eph.4.24 + - 2Cor.3.18 + - question: >- + Whence then proceeds this depravity of human nature? + number: 7 + answer: >- + From the fall and disobedience of our first parents, Adam and Eve, in + Paradise;[a] hence our nature is become so corrupt, that we are all + conceived and born in sin.[b] + verses: + a: + - Gen.3 + - Rom.5.12 + - Rom.5.18 + - Rom.5.19 + b: + - Ps.51.5 + - Gen.5.3 + - question: >- + Are we then so corrupt that we are wholly incapable of doing any good, + and inclined to all wickedness? + number: 8 + answer: >- + Indeed we are;[a] except we are regenerated by the Spirit of God.[b] + verses: + a: + - Gen.8.21 + - John.3.6 + - Gen.6.5 + - Job.14.4 + - Job.15.14 + - Job.15.16 + - Job.15.35 + - Isa.53.6 + b: + - John.3.3 + - John.3.5 + - 1Cor.12.3 + - 2Cor.3.5 + - number: 4 + questions: + - question: >- + Does not God then do injustice to man, by requiring from him in his + law, that which he cannot perform? + number: 9 + answer: >- + Not at all;[a] for God made man capable of performing it; but man, by + the instigation of the devil,[b] and his own wilful disobedience,[c] + deprived himself and all his posterity of those divine gifts. + verses: + a: + - Eph.4.24 + - Eccl.7.29 + b: + - John.8.44 + - 2Cor.11.3 + - Gen.3.4 + c: + - Gen.3.6 + - Rom.5.12 + - Gen.3.13 + - 1Tim.2.13 + - 1Tim.2.14 + - question: >- + Will God suffer such disobedience and rebellion to go unpunished? + number: 10 + answer: >- + By no means; but is terribly displeased[a] with our original as well + as actual sins; and will punish them in his just judgment temporally + and eternally,[b] as he has declared, "Cursed is every one that + continueth not in all things, which are written in the book of the + law, to do them."[c] + verses: + a: + - Gen.2.17 + - Rom.5.12 + b: + - Ps.5.5 + - Ps.50.21 + - Nah.1.2 + - Exod.20.5 + - Exod.34.7 + - Rom.1.18 + - Eph.5.6 + - Heb.9.27 + c: + - Deut.27.26 + - Gal.3.10 + - question: >- + Is not God then also merciful? + number: 11 + answer: >- + God is indeed merciful,[a] but also just;[b] therefore his justice + requires, that sin which is committed against the most high majesty of + God, be also punished with extreme, that is, with everlasting + punishment of body and soul. + verses: + a: + - Exod.34.6 + - Exod.34.7 + - Exod.20.6 + b: + - Ps.7.9 + - Exod.20.5 + - Exod.23.7 + - Exod.34.7 + - Ps.5.5 + - Ps.5.6 + - Nah.1.2 + - Nah.1.3 + - number: 5 + questions: + - question: >- + Since then, by the righteous judgment of God, we deserve temporal and + eternal punishment, is there no way by which we may escape that + punishment, and be again received into favour? + number: 12 + answer: >- + God will have his justice satisfied:[a] and therefore we must make + this full satisfaction, either by ourselves, or by another.[b] + verses: + a: + - Gen.2.17 + - Exod.20.5 + - Exod.23.7 + - Ezek.18.4 + - Matt.5.26 + - 2Thess.1.6 + - Luke.16.2 + b: + - Rom.8.3 + - Rom.8.4 + - question: >- + Can we ourselves then make this satisfaction? + number: 13 + answer: >- + By no means; but on the contrary we daily increase our debt.[a] + verses: + a: + - Job.9.2 + - Job.9.3 + - Job.15.15 + - Job.15.16 + - Job.4.18 + - Job.4.19 + - Ps.130.3 + - Matt.6.12 + - Matt.18.25 + - Matt.16.26 + - question: >- + Can there be found anywhere, one, who is a mere creature, able to + satisfy for us? + number: 14 + answer: >- + None; for, first, God will not punish any other creature for the sin + which man has committed;[a] and further, no mere creature can sustain + the burden of God's eternal wrath against sin, so as to deliver others + from it.[b] + verses: + a: + - Ezek.18.4 + - Gen.3.17 + - Heb.2.14 + - Heb.2.15 + - Heb.2.16 + - Heb.2.17 + b: + - Nah.1.6 + - Ps.130.3 + - question: >- + What sort of a mediator and deliverer then must we seek for? + number: 15 + answer: >- + For one who is very man, and perfectly[a] righteous;[b] and yet more + powerful than all creatures; that is, one who is also very God.[c] + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.15.21 + - Jer.33.16 + - Isa.53.9 + - 2Cor.5.21 + b: + - Heb.7.26 + - Heb.7.16 + c: + - Isa.7.14 + - Isa.9.6 + - Rom.9.5 + - Jer.23.5 + - Jer.23.6 + - Luke.11.22 + - number: 6 + questions: + - question: >- + Why must he be very man, and also perfectly righteous? + number: 16 + answer: >- + Because the justice of God requires that the same human nature which + has sinned, should likewise make satisfaction for sin;[a] and one, who + is himself a sinner, cannot satisfy for others.[b] + verses: + a: + - Ezek.18.4 + - Ezek.18.20 + - Rom.5.12 + - Rom.5.15 + - Rom.5.18 + - 1Cor.15.21 + - Heb.2.14 + - Heb.2.15 + - Heb.2.16 + - 1Pet.3.18 + - Isa.53.3 + - Isa.53.4 + - Isa.53.5 + - Isa.53.10 + - Isa.53.11 + b: + - Heb.7.26 + - Heb.7.27 + - Ps.49.7 + - Ps.49.8 + - 1Pet.3.18 + - question: >- + Why must he in one person be also very God? + number: 17 + answer: >- + That he might, by the power of his Godhead[a] sustain in his human + nature,[b] the burden of God's wrath;[c] and might obtain for, and + restore to us, righteousness and life.[d] + verses: + a: + - Isa.9.6 + - Isa.63.3 + b: + - Isa.53.4 + - Isa.53.11 + c: + - Deut.4.24 + - Nah.1.6 + - Ps.130.3 + d: + - Isa.53.5 + - Isa.53.11 + - Acts.2.24 + - 1Pet.3.18 + - John.3.16 + - Acts.20.28 + - John.1.4 + - question: >- + Who then is that Mediator, who is in one person both very God, (a) and + a real (b) righteous man? (c) + number: 18 + answer: >- + Our Lord Jesus Christ:[d] "who of God is made unto us wisdom, and + righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption."[e] + verses: + a: + - 1John.5.20 + - Rom.9.5 + - Rom.8.3 + - Gal.4.4 + - Isa.9.6 + - Jer.23.6 + - Mal.3.1 + b: + - Luke.1.42 + - Luke.2.6 + - Luke.2.7 + - Rom.1.3 + - Rom.9.5 + - Phil.2.7 + - Heb.2.14 + - Heb.2.16 + - Heb.2.17 + - Heb.4.15 + c: + - Isa.53.9 + - Isa.53.11 + - Jer.23.5 + - Luke.1.35 + - John.8.46 + - Heb.4.15 + - Heb.7.26 + - 1Pet.1.19 + - 1Pet.2.22 + - 1Pet.3.18 + d: + - 1Tim.2.5 + - Heb.2.9 + - Matt.1.23 + - 1Tim.3.16 + - Luke.2.11 + e: + - 1Cor.1.30 + - question: >- + Whence knowest thou this? + number: 19 + answer: >- + From the holy gospel, which God himself first revealed in Paradise;[a] + and afterwards published by the patriarchs[b] and prophets,[c] and + represented by the sacrifices and other ceremonies of the law;[d] and + lastly, has fulfilled it by his only begotten Son.[e] + verses: + a: + - Gen.3.15 + b: + - Gen.22.18 + - Gen.12.3 + - Gen.49.10 + - Gen.49.11 + c: + - Isa.53 + - Isa.42.1 + - Isa.42.2 + - Isa.42.3 + - Isa.42.4 + - Isa.43.25 + - Isa.49.5 + - Isa.49.6 + - Isa.49.22 + - Isa.49.23 + - Jer.23.5 + - Jer.23.6 + - Jer.31.32 + - Jer.31.33 + - Jer.32.39 + - Jer.32.40 + - Jer.32.41 + - Mic.7.18 + - Mic.7.19 + - Mic.7.20 + - Acts.10.43 + - Rom.1.2 + - Heb.1.1 + - Acts.3.22 + - Acts.3.23 + - Acts.3.24 + - Acts.10.43 + - John.5.46 + d: + - Heb.10.1 + - Heb.10.7 + - Col.2.7 + - John.5.46 + e: + - Rom.10.4 + - Gal.4.4 + - Gal.4.5 + - Gal.3.24 + - Col.2.17 + - number: 7 + questions: + - question: >- + Are all men then, as they perished in Adam, saved by Christ? + number: 20 + answer: >- + No;[a] only those who are ingrafted into him, and, receive all his + benefits, by a true faith.[b] + verses: + a: + - Matt.7.14 + - Matt.22.14 + b: + - Mark.16.16 + - John.1.12 + - John.3.16 + - John.3.18 + - John.3.36 + - Isa.53.11 + - Ps.2.12 + - Rom.11.17 + - Rom.11.19 + - Rom.11.20 + - Rom.3.22 + - Heb.4.2 + - Heb.4.3 + - Heb.5.9 + - Heb.10.39 + - Heb.11.6 + - question: >- + What is true faith? + number: 21 + answer: >- + True faith is not only a certain knowledge, whereby I hold for truth + all that God has revealed to us in his word,[a] but also an assured + confidence,[b] which the Holy Ghost[c] works by the gospel in my + heart;[d] that not only to others, but to me also, remission of sin, + everlasting righteousness and salvation,[e] are freely given by God, + merely of grace, only for the sake of Christ's merits.[f] + verses: + a: + - Jas.2.19 + b: + - 2Cor.4.13 + - Eph.2.7 + - Eph.2.8 + - Eph.2.9 + - Eph.3.12 + - Gal.2.16 + - Heb.11.1 + - Heb.11.7 + - Heb.11.8 + - Heb.11.9 + - Heb.11.10 + - Heb.4.16 + - Jas.1.6 + - Matt.16.17 + - Phil.1.19 + - Rom.4.17 + - Rom.4.21 + - Rom.5.1 + - Rom.1.16 + - Rom.10.10 + - Rom.10.17 + - Rom.4.16 + - Rom.4.18 + - Rom.4.19 + - Rom.4.20 + - Rom.3.24 + - Rom.3.25 + c: + - Gal.5.22 + - Matt.16.17 + - 2Cor.4.13 + - John.6.29 + - Eph.2.8 + - Phil.1.19 + - Acts.16.14 + d: + - Rom.1.16 + - Rom.10.17 + - 1Cor.1.21 + - Acts.10.44 + - Acts.16.14 + e: + - Rom.1.17 + - Gal.3.11 + - Heb.10.10 + - Heb.10.38 + - Gal.2.16 + f: + - Eph.2.8 + - Rom.3.24 + - Rom.5.19 + - Luke.1.77 + - Luke.1.78 + - question: >- + What is then necessary for a christian to believe? + number: 22 + answer: >- + All things promised us in the gospel,[a] which the articles of our + catholic undoubted christian faith briefly teach us. + verses: + a: + - John.20.31 + - Matt.28.19 + - Mark.1.15 + - question: >- + What are these articles? + number: 23 + answer: >- + 1. I believe in God the Father, Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth: + 2. And in Jesus Christ, his only begotten Son, our Lord: 3. Who was + conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary: 4. Suffered + under Pontius Pilate; was crucified, dead, and buried: He descended + into hell: 5. The third day he rose again from the dead: 6. He + ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father + Almighty: 7. From thence he shall come to judge the quick and the + dead: 8. I believe in the Holy Ghost: 9. I believe a holy catholic + church: the communion of saints: 10. The forgiveness of sins: 11. The + resurrection of the body: 12. And the life everlasting. + - number: 8 + questions: + - question: >- + How are these articles divided? + number: 24 + answer: >- + Into three parts; the first is of God the Father, and our creation; + the second of God the Son, and our redemption; the third of God the + Holy Ghost, and our sanctification. + - question: >- + Since there is but one only divine essence, (a) why speakest thou of + Father, Son, and Holy Ghost? + number: 25 + answer: >- + Because God has so revealed himself in his word,[b] that these three + distinct persons are the one only true and eternal God. + verses: + a: + - Deut.6.4 + - Eph.4.6 + - Isa.44.6 + - Isa.45.5 + - 1Cor.8.4 + - 1Cor.8.6 + b: + - Isa.61.1 + - Luke.4.18 + - Gen.1.2 + - Gen.1.3 + - Ps.33.6 + - Isa.48.16 + - Ps.110.1 + - Matt.3.16 + - Matt.3.17 + - Matt.28.19 + - 1John.5.7 + - Isa.6.1 + - Isa.6.3 + - John.14.26 + - John.15.26 + - 2Cor.13.13 + - Gal.4.6 + - Eph.2.18 + - Titus.3.5 + - Titus.3.6 + - number: 9 + questions: + - question: >- + What believest thou when thou sayest, "I believe in God the Father, + Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth"? + number: 26 + answer: >- + That the eternal Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (who of nothing made + heaven and earth, with all that is in them;[a] who likewise upholds + and governs the same by his eternal counsel and providence)[b] is for + the sake of Christ his Son, my God and my Father;[c] on whom I rely so + entirely, that I have no doubt, but he will provide me with all things + necessary for soul and body[d] and further, that he will make whatever + evils he sends upon me, in this valley of tears turn out to my + advantage;[e] for he is able to do it, being Almighty God,[f] and + willing, being a faithful Father.[g] + verses: + a: + - Gen.1-Gen.2 + - Exod.20.11 + - Job.33.4 + - Job.38-Job.39 + - Ps.33.6 + - Acts.4.24 + - Acts.14.15 + - Isa.45.7 + b: + - Matt.10.29 + - Heb.1.3 + - Ps.104.27 + - Ps.104.28 + - Ps.104.29 + - Ps.104.30 + - Ps.115.3 + - Matt.10.29 + - Eph.1.11 + c: + - John.1.12 + - Rom.8.15 + - Gal.4.5 + - Gal.4.6 + - Gal.4.7 + - Eph.1.5 + d: + - Ps.55.23 + - Matt.6.25 + - Matt.6.26 + - Luke.12.22 + e: + - Rom.8.28 + f: + - Rom.10.12 + - Luke.12.22 + - Rom.8.23 + - Isa.46.4 + - Rom.10.12 + g: + - Matt.6.25 + - Matt.6.26 + - Matt.6.27 + - Matt.6.28 + - Matt.6.29 + - Matt.6.30 + - Matt.6.31 + - Matt.6.32 + - Matt.6.33 + - Matt.6.34 + - Matt.7.9 + - Matt.7.10 + - Matt.7.11 + - number: 10 + questions: + - question: >- + What dost thou mean by the providence of God? + number: 27 + answer: >- + The almighty and everywhere present power of God;[a] whereby, as it + were by his hand, he upholds and governs[b] heaven, earth, and all + creatures; so that herbs and grass, rain and drought,[c] fruitful and + barren years, meat and drink, health and sickness,[d] riches and + poverty,[e] yea, and all things come, not by chance, but be his + fatherly hand.[f] + verses: + a: + - Acts.17.25 + - Acts.17.26 + - Acts.17.27 + - Acts.17.28 + - Jer.23.23 + - Jer.23.24 + - Isa.29.15 + - Isa.29.16 + - Ezek.8.12 + b: + - Heb.1.3 + c: + - Jer.5.24 + - Acts.14.17 + d: + - John.9.3 + e: + - Prov.22.2 + f: + - Matt.10.20 + - Prov.16.33 + - question: >- + What advantage is it to us to know that God has created, and by his + providence does still uphold all things? + number: 28 + answer: >- + That we may be patient in adversity;[a] thankful in prosperity;[b] and + that in all things, which may hereafter befall us, we place our firm + trust in our faithful God and Father,[c] that nothing shall separate + us from his love;[d] since all creatures are so in his hand, that + without his will they cannot so much as move.[e] + verses: + a: + - Rom.5.3 + - Jas.1.3 + - Ps.39.9 + - Job.1.21 + - Job.1.22 + b: + - Deut.8.10 + - 1Thess.5.18 + c: + - Ps.55.22 + - Rom.5.4 + d: + - Rom.8.38 + - Rom.8.39 + e: + - Job.1.12 + - Job.2.6 + - Acts.17.28 + - Acts.17.25 + - Prov.21.1 + - number: 11 + questions: + - question: >- + Why is the Son of God called "Jesus", that is a Saviour? + number: 29 + answer: >- + Because he saveth us, and delivereth us from our sins;[a] and + likewise, because we ought not to seek, neither can find salvation in + any other.[b] + verses: + a: + - Matt.1.21 + - Heb.7.24 + - Heb.7.25 + b: + - Acts.4.12 + - John.15.4 + - John.15.5 + - 1Tim.2.5 + - Isa.43.11 + - 1John.5.11 + - question: >- + Do such then believe in Jesus the only Saviour, who seek their + salvation and welfare of saints, of themselves, or anywhere else? + number: 30 + answer: >- + They do not; for though they boast of him in words, yet in deeds they + deny Jesus the only deliverer and Saviour;[a] for one of these two + things must be true, that either Jesus is not a complete Saviour; or + that they, who by a true faith receive this Saviour, must find all + things in him necessary to their salvation.[b] + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.1.13 + - 1Cor.1.30 + - 1Cor.1.31 + - Gal.5.4 + b: + - Heb.12.2 + - Isa.9.6 + - Col.1.19 + - Col.1.20 + - Col.2.10 + - 1John.1.7 + - John.1.16 + - number: 12 + questions: + - question: >- + Why is he called "Christ", that is anointed? + number: 31 + answer: >- + Because he is ordained of God the Father, and anointed with the Holy + Ghost,[a] to be our chief Prophet and Teacher,[b] who has fully + revealed to us the secret counsel and will of God concerning our + redemption;[c] and to be our only High Priest,[d] who by the one + sacrifice of his body, has redeemed us,[e] and makes continual + intercession with the Father for us;[f] and also to be our eternal + King, who governs us by his word and Spirit, and who defends and + preserves us in that salvation, he has purchased for us.[g] + verses: + a: + - Ps.45.8 + - Heb.1.9 + - Isa.61.1 + - Luke.4.18 + b: + - Deut.18.15 + - Acts.3.22 + - Acts.7.37 + - Isa.55.4 + c: + - John.1.18 + - John.15.15 + d: + - Ps.110.4 + e: + - Heb.10.12 + - Heb.10.14 + - Heb.9.12 + - Heb.9.14 + - Heb.9.28 + f: + - Rom.8.34 + - Heb.9.24 + - 1John.2.1 + - Rom.5.9 + - Rom.5.10 + g: + - Ps.2.6 + - Zech.9.9 + - Matt.21.5 + - Luke.1.33 + - Matt.28.18 + - John.10.28 + - Rev.12.10 + - Rev.12.11 + - question: >- + But why art thou called a Christian? (a) + number: 32 + answer: >- + Because I am a member of Christ by faith,[b] and thus am partaker of + his anointing;[c] that so I may confess his name,[d] and present + myself a living sacrifice of thankfulness to him:[e] and also that + with a free and good conscience I may fight against sin and Satan in + this life[f] and afterwards I reign with him eternally, over all + creatures.[g] + verses: + a: + - Acts.11.26 + b: + - 1Cor.6.15 + c: + - 1John.2.27 + - Acts.2.17 + d: + - Matt.10.32 + - Rom.10.10 + - Mark.8.38 + e: + - Rom.12.1 + - 1Pet.2.5 + - 1Pet.2.9 + - Rev.5.8 + - Rev.5.10 + - Rev.1.6 + f: + - 1Pet.2.11 + - Rom.6.12 + - Rom.6.13 + - Gal.5.16 + - Gal.5.17 + - Eph.6.11 + - 1Tim.1.18 + - 1Tim.1.19 + g: + - 2Tim.2.12 + - Matt.24.34 + - number: 13 + questions: + - question: >- + Why is Christ called the "only begotten Son" of God, since we are also + the children of God? + number: 33 + answer: >- + Because Christ alone is the eternal and natural Son of God;[a] but we + are children adopted of God, by grace, for his sake.[b] + verses: + a: + - John.1.1 + - John.1.2 + - John.1.3 + - John.1.14 + - John.1.18 + - Heb.1.1 + - Heb.1.2 + - John.3.16 + - 1John.4.9 + - Rom.8.32 + b: + - Rom.8.15 + - Rom.8.16 + - Rom.8.17 + - John.1.12 + - Gal.4.6 + - Eph.1.5 + - Eph.1.6 + - question: >- + Wherefore callest thou him "our Lord"? + number: 34 + answer: >- + Because he hath redeemed us, both soul and body, from all our sins, + not with silver or gold, but with his precious blood, and has + delivered us from all the power of the devil; and thus has made us his + own property.[a] + verses: + a: + - 1Pet.1.18 + - 1Pet.1.19 + - 1Pet.2.9 + - 1Cor.6.20 + - 1Cor.7.23 + - 1Tim.2.6 + - John.20.28 + - number: 14 + questions: + - question: >- + . What is the meaning of these words "He was conceived by the Holy + Ghost, born of the virgin Mary"? + number: 35 + answer: >- + That God's eternal Son, who is, and continues[a] true and eternal + God,[b] took upon him the very nature of man, of the flesh and blood + of the virgin Mary,[c] by the operation of the Holy Ghost;[d] that he + might also be the true seed of David,[e] like unto his brethren in all + things,[f] sin excepted.[g] + verses: + a: + - Rom.1.4 + - Rom.9.5 + b: + - 1John.5.20 + - John.1.1 + - John.17.3 + - Rom.1.3 + - Col.1.15 + c: + - Gal.4.4 + - Luke.1.31 + - Luke.1.42 + - Luke.1.43 + d: + - John.1.14 + - Matt.1.18 + - Matt.1.20 + - Luke.1.35 + e: + - Ps.132.11 + - Rom.1.3 + - 2Sam.7.12 + - Luke.1.32 + - Acts.2.30 + f: + - Phil.2.7 + - Heb.2.14 + - Heb.2.17 + g: + - Heb.4.15 + - question: >- + What profit dost thou receive by Christ's holy conception and + nativity? + number: 36 + answer: >- + That he is our Mediator;[a] and with His innocence and perfect + holiness, covers in the sight of God, my sins, wherein I was conceived + and brought forth.[b] + verses: + a: + - Heb.7.26 + - Heb.7.27 + - Heb.2.17 + b: + - 1Pet.1.18 + - 1Pet.1.19 + - 1Pet.3.18 + - 1Cor.1.30 + - 1Cor.1.31 + - Rom.8.3 + - Rom.8.4 + - Isa.53.11 + - Ps.32.1 + - number: 15 + questions: + - question: >- + What dost thou understand by the words, "He suffered"? + number: 37 + answer: >- + That he, all the time that he lived on earth, but especially at the + end of his life, sustained in body and soul, the wrath of God against + the sins of all mankind:[a] that so by his passion, as the only + propitiatory sacrifice,[b] he might redeem our body and soul from + everlasting damnation,[c] and obtain for us the favour of God, + righteousness and eternal life.[d] + verses: + a: + - Isa.53.4 + - 1Pet.2.24 + - 1Pet.3.18 + - 1Tim.2.6 + b: + - Isa.53.10 + - Isa.53.12 + - Eph.5.2 + - 1Cor.5.7 + - 1John.2.2 + - 1John.4.10 + - Rom.3.25 + - Heb.9.28 + - Heb.10.14 + c: + - Gal.3.13 + - Col.1.13 + - Heb.9.12 + - 1Pet.1.18 + - 1Pet.1.19 + d: + - Rom.3.25 + - 2Cor.5.21 + - John.3.16 + - John.6.51 + - Heb.9.15 + - Heb.10.19 + - question: >- + Why did he suffer "under Pontius Pilate, as judge"? + number: 38 + answer: >- + That he, being innocent, and yet condemned by a temporal judge,[a] + might thereby free us from the severe judgement of God to which we + were exposed.[b] + verses: + a: + - John.18.38 + - Matt.27.24 + - Acts.4.27 + - Acts.4.28 + - Luke.23.14 + - Luke.23.15 + - John.19.4 + b: + - Ps.69.4 + - Isa.53.4 + - Isa.53.5 + - 2Cor.5.21 + - Gal.3.13 + - question: >- + Is there anything more in his being "crucified", than if he had died + some other death? + number: 39 + answer: >- + Yes there is; for thereby I am assured, that he took on him the curse + which lay upon me;[a] for the death of the cross was accursed of + God.[b] + verses: + a: + - Gal.3.13 + b: + - Deut.21.23 + - number: 16 + questions: + - question: >- + Why was it necessary for Christ to humble himself even "unto death"? + number: 40 + answer: >- + Because with respect to the justice and truth of God,[a] satisfaction + for our sins could be made no otherwise, than by the death of the Son + of God.[b] + verses: + a: + - Gen.2.17 + b: + - Rom.8.3 + - Rom.8.4 + - Heb.2.9 + - Heb.2.14 + - Heb.2.15 + - question: >- + Why was he also "buried"? + number: 41 + answer: >- + Thereby to prove that he was really dead.[a] + verses: + a: + - Matt.27.59 + - Matt.27.60 + - Luke.23.52 + - Luke.23.53 + - John.19.38 + - John.19.39 + - John.19.40 + - John.19.41 + - John.19.42 + - Acts.13.29 + - question: >- + Since then Christ died for us, why must we also die? + number: 42 + answer: >- + Our death is not a satisfaction for our sins,[a] but only an + abolishing of sin, and a passage into eternal life.[b] + verses: + a: + - Mark.8.37 + - Ps.49.7 + b: + - John.5.24 + - Phil.1.23 + - Rom.7.24 + - question: >- + What further benefit do we receive from the sacrifice and death of + Christ on the cross? + number: 43 + answer: >- + That by virtue thereof, our old man is crucified, dead and buried with + him;[a] that so the corrupt inclinations of the flesh may no more + reign in us;[b] but that we may offer ourselves unto him a sacrifice + of thanksgiving.[c] + verses: + a: + - Rom.6.6 + b: + - Rom.6.6 + - Rom.6.7 + - Rom.6.8 + - Rom.6.11 + - Rom.6.12 + - Col.2.12 + c: + - Rom.12.1 + - question: >- + Why is there added, "he descended into hell"? + number: 44 + answer: >- + That in my greatest temptations, I may be assured, and wholly comfort + myself in this, that my Lord Jesus Christ, by his inexpressible + anguish, pains, terrors, and hellish agonies, in which he was plunged + during all his sufferings,[a] but especially on the cross, has + delivered me from the anguish and torments of hell.[b] + verses: + a: + - Ps.18.5 + - Ps.18.6 + - Ps.116.3 + - Matt.26.38 + - Heb.5.7 + - Isa.53.10 + - Matt.27.46 + b: + - Isa.53.5 + - number: 17 + questions: + - question: >- + What does the "resurrection" of Christ profit us? + number: 45 + answer: >- + First, by his resurrection he has overcome death, that he might make + us partakers of that righteousness which he had purchased for us by + his death;[a] secondly, we are also by his power raised up to a new + life;[b] and lastly, the resurrection of Christ is a sure pledge of + our blessed resurrection.[c] + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.15.16 + - Rom.4.25 + - 1Pet.1.3 + b: + - Rom.6.4 + - Col.3.1 + - Col.3.3 + - Eph.2.5 + - Eph.2.6 + c: + - 1Cor.15.12 + - 1Cor.15.20 + - 1Cor.15.21 + - Rom.8.11 + - number: 18 + questions: + - question: >- + How dost thou understand these words, "he ascended into heaven"? + number: 46 + answer: >- + That Christ, in sight of his disciples, was taken up from earth into + heaven;[a] and that he continues there for our interest,[b] until he + comes again to judge the quick and the dead.[c] + verses: + a: + - Acts.1.9 + - Matt.26.64 + - Mark.16.19 + - Luke.24.51 + b: + - Heb.7.25 + - Heb.4.14 + - Heb.9.24 + - Rom.8.34 + - Eph.4.10 + - Col.3.1 + c: + - Acts.1.11 + - Matt.24.30 + - question: >- + Is not Christ then with us even to the end of the world, as he has + promised? (a) + number: 47 + answer: >- + Christ is very man and very God; with respect to his human nature, he + is no more on earth;[b] but with respect to his Godhead, majesty, + grace and spirit, he is at no time absent from us.[c][a] Matt.28:20 + Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: + and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.[b] + Heb.8:4 For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing + that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law: + Matt.26:11 For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not + always. John 16:28 I came forth from the Father, and am come into the + world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father. John 17:11 And + now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come + to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast + given me, that they may be one, as we are. Acts 3:21 Whom the heaven + must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God + hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world + began.[c] John 14:17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot + receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know + him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. John 14:18 I will + not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. John 14:19 Yet a little + while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, + ye shall live also. John 16:13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, + is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of + himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he + will shew you things to come. Matt.28:20 Teaching them to observe all + things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, + even unto the end of the world. Amen. Eph.4:8 Wherefore he saith, When + he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto + men. Eph.4:12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the + ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: + - question: >- + But if his human nature is not present, wherever his Godhead is, are + not then these two natures in Christ separated from one another? + number: 48 + answer: >- + Not as all, for since the Godhead is illimitable and omnipresent,[a] + it must necessarily follow that the same is beyond the limits of the + human nature he assumed,[b] and yet is nevertheless in this human + nature, and remains personally united to it. + verses: + a: + - Acts.7.49 + - Jer.23.24 + b: + - Col.2.9 + - John.3.13 + - John.11.15 + - Matt.28.6 + - question: >- + Of what advantage to us is Christ's ascension into heaven? + number: 49 + answer: >- + First, that he is our advocate in the presence of his Father in + heaven;[a] secondly, that we have our flesh in heaven as a sure pledge + that he, as the head, will also take up to himself, us, his + members;[b] thirdly, that he sends us his Spirit as an earnest,[c] by + whose power we "seek the things which are above, where Christ sitteth + on the right hand of God, and not things on earth."[d] + verses: + a: + - 1John.2.1 + - Rom.8.34 + b: + - John.14.2 + - John.17.24 + - John.20.17 + - Eph.2.6 + c: + - John.14.16 + - John.16.7 + - Acts.2.1 + - Acts.2.2 + - Acts.2.3 + - Acts.2.4 + - Acts.2.33 + - 2Cor.1.22 + - 2Cor.5.5 + d: + - Col.3.1 + - Phil.3.14 + - number: 19 + questions: + - question: >- + Why is it added, "and sitteth at the right hand of God"? + number: 50 + answer: >- + Because Christ is ascended into heaven for this end, that he might + appear as head of his church,[a] by whom the Father governs all + things.[b] + verses: + a: + - Eph.1.20 + - Eph.1.21 + - Eph.1.23 + - Col.1.18 + b: + - Matt.28.18 + - John.5.22 + - question: >- + What profit is this glory of Christ, our head, unto us? + number: 51 + answer: >- + First, that by his Holy Spirit he pours out heavenly graces upon us + his members;[a] and then that by his power he defends and preserves us + against all enemies.[b] + verses: + a: + - Acts.2.33 + - Eph.4.8 + b: + - Ps.2.9 + - Ps.110.1 + - Ps.110.2 + - John.10.28 + - Eph.4.8 + - question: >- + What comfort is it to thee that "Christ shall come again to judge the + quick and the dead"? + number: 52 + answer: >- + That in all my sorrows and persecutions, with uplifted head I look for + the very same person, who before offered himself for my sake, to the + tribunal of God, and has removed all curse from me, to come as judge + from heaven:[a] who shall cast all his and my enemies into everlasting + condemnation,[b] but shall translate me with all his chosen ones to + himself, into heavenly joys and glory.[c] + verses: + a: + - Luke.21.28 + - Rom.8.23 + - Phil.3.20 + - Titus.2.13 + - 1Thess.4.16 + b: + - 2Thess.1.6 + - 2Thess.1.8 + - 2Thess.1.9 + - 2Thess.1.10 + - Matt.25.41 + - Matt.25.42 + - Matt.25.43 + c: + - Matt.25.34 + - 2Thess.1.7 + - number: 20 + questions: + - question: >- + What dost thou believe concerning the Holy Ghost? + number: 53 + answer: >- + First, that he is true and coeternal God with the Father and the + Son;[a] secondly, that he is also given me,[b] to make me by a true + faith, partaker of Christ and all his benefits,[c] that he may comfort + me[d] and abide with me for ever.[e] + verses: + a: + - 1John.5.7 + - Gen.1.2 + - Isa.48.16 + - 1Cor.3.16 + - 1Cor.6.19 + - Acts.5.3 + - Acts.5.4 + b: + - Gal.4.6 + - Matt.28.19 + - Matt.28.20 + - 2Cor.1.21 + - 2Cor.1.22 + - Eph.1.13 + c: + - Gal.3.14 + - 1Pet.1.2 + - 1Cor.6.17 + d: + - Acts.9.31 + - John.15.26 + e: + - John.14.16 + - 1Pet.4.14 + - number: 21 + questions: + - question: >- + What believest thou concerning the "holy catholic church" of Christ? + number: 54 + answer: >- + That the Son of God[a] from the beginning to the end of the world,[b] + gathers, defends, and preserves[c] to himself by his Spirit and + word,[d] out of the whole human race,[e] a church chosen to + everlasting life,[f] agreeing in true faith;[g] and that I am and + forever shall remain,[h] a living member thereof.[i] + verses: + a: + - Eph.5.26 + - John.10.11 + - Acts.20.28 + - Eph.4.11 + - Eph.4.12 + - Eph.4.13 + b: + - Ps.71.17 + - Ps.71.18 + - Isa.59.21 + - 1Cor.11.26 + c: + - Matt.16.18 + - John.10.28 + - John.10.29 + - John.10.30 + - Ps.129.1 + - Ps.129.2 + - Ps.129.3 + - Ps.129.4 + - Ps.129.5 + d: + - Isa.59.21 + - Rom.1.16 + - Rom.10.14 + - Rom.10.15 + - Rom.10.16 + - Rom.10.17 + - Eph.5.26 + e: + - Gen.26.4 + - Rev.5.9 + f: + - Rom.8.29 + - Rom.8.30 + - Eph.1.10 + - Eph.1.11 + - Eph.1.12 + - Eph.1.13 + g: + - Acts.2.46 + - Eph.4.3 + - Eph.4.4 + - Eph.4.5 + - Eph.4.6 + h: + - Ps.23.6 + - 1Cor.1.8 + - 1Cor.1.9 + - John.10.28 + - 1John.2.19 + - 1Pet.1.5 + i: + - 1John.3.14 + - 1John.3.19 + - 1John.3.20 + - 1John.3.21 + - 2Cor.13.5 + - Rom.8.10 + - question: >- + What do you understand by "the communion of saints"? + number: 55 + answer: >- + First, that all and every one, who believes, being members of Christ, + are in common, partakers of him, and of all his riches and gifts;[a] + secondly, that every one must know it to be his duty, readily and + cheerfully to employ his gifts, for the advantage and salvation of + other members.[b] + verses: + a: + - 1John.1.3 + - 1Cor.1.9 + - Rom.8.32 + - 1Cor.12.12 + - 1Cor.12.13 + - 1Cor.6.17 + b: + - 1Cor.12.21 + - 1Cor.13.1 + - 1Cor.13.5 + - Phil.2.4 + - Phil.2.5 + - Phil.2.6 + - Phil.2.7 + - Phil.2.8 + - question: >- + What believest thou concerning "the forgiveness of sins"? + number: 56 + answer: >- + That God, for the sake of Christ's satisfaction, will no more remember + my sins, neither my corrupt nature, against which I have to struggle + all my life long;[a] but will graciously impute to me the + righteousness of Christ,[b] that I may never be condemned before the + tribunal of God.[c] + verses: + a: + - 1John.2.2 + - 1John.1.7 + - 2Cor.5.19 + - 2Cor.5.21 + b: + - Jer.31.34 + - Ps.103.3 + - Ps.103.4 + - Ps.103.10 + - Ps.103.12 + - Mic.7.19 + - Rom.7.23 + - Rom.7.24 + - Rom.7.25 + c: + - Rom.8.1 + - Rom.8.2 + - Rom.8.3 + - Rom.8.4 + - John.3.18 + - John.5.24 + - number: 22 + questions: + - question: >- + What comfort does the "resurrection of the body" afford thee? + number: 57 + answer: >- + That not only my soul after this life shall be immediately taken up to + Christ its head;[a] but also, that this my body, being raised by the + power of Christ, shall be reunited with my soul, and made like unto + the glorious body of Christ.[b] + verses: + a: + - Luke.16.22 + - Luke.23.43 + - Phil.1.21 + - Phil.1.23 + b: + - 1Cor.15.53 + - 1Cor.15.54 + - Job.19.25 + - Job.19.26 + - 1John.3.2 + - Phil.3.21 + - question: >- + What comfort takest thou from the article of "life everlasting"? + number: 58 + answer: >- + That since I now feel in my heart the beginning of eternal joy,[a] + after this life, I shall inherit perfect salvation, which "eye has not + seen, nor ear heard, neither has it entered into the heart of man" to + conceive, and that to praise God therein for ever.[b] + verses: + a: + - 2Cor.5.2 + - 2Cor.5.3 + b: + - 1Cor.2.9 + - John.17.3 + - number: 23 + questions: + - question: >- + But what does it profit thee now that thou believest all this? + number: 59 + answer: >- + That I am righteous in Christ, before God, and an heir of eternal + life.[a] + verses: + a: + - Hab.2.4 + - Rom.1.17 + - John.3.36 + - question: >- + How are thou righteous before God? + number: 60 + answer: >- + Only by a true faith in Jesus Christ;[a] so that, though my conscience + accuse me, that I have grossly transgressed all the commandments of + God, and kept none of them,[b] and am still inclined to all evil;[c] + notwithstanding, God, without any merit of mine,[d] but only of mere + grace,[e] grants and imputes to me,[f] the perfect satisfaction,[g] + righteousness and holiness of Christ;[h] even so, as if I never had + had, nor committed any sin: yea, as if I had fully accomplished all + that obedience which Christ has accomplished for me;[i] inasmuch as I + embrace such benefit with a believing heart.[j] + verses: + a: + - Rom.3.21 + - Rom.3.22 + - Rom.3.23 + - Rom.3.24 + - Rom.3.25 + - Rom.3.28 + - Rom.5.1 + - Rom.5.2 + - Gal.2.16 + - Eph.2.8 + - Eph.2.9 + - Phil.3.9 + b: + - Rom.3.9 + c: + - Rom.7.23 + d: + - Titus.3.5 + - Deut.9.6 + - Ezek.36.22 + e: + - Rom.3.24 + - Eph.2.8 + f: + - Rom.4.4 + - Rom.4.5 + - 2Cor.5.19 + g: + - 1John.2.2 + h: + - 1John.2.1 + i: + - 2Cor.5.21 + j: + - Rom.3.22 + - John.3.18 + - question: >- + Why sayest thou, that thou art righteous by faith only? + number: 61 + answer: >- + Not that I am acceptable to God, on account of the worthiness of my + faith; but because only the satisfaction, righteousness, and holiness + of Christ, is my righteousness before God;[a] and that I cannot + receive and apply the same to myself any other way than by faith + only.[b] + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.1.30 + - 1Cor.2.2 + b: + - 1John.5.10 + - number: 24 + questions: + - question: >- + But why cannot our good works be the whole, or part of our + righteousness before God? + number: 62 + answer: >- + Because, that the righteousness, which can be approved of before the + tribunal of God, must be absolutely perfect,[a] and in all respects + conformable to the divine law; and also, that our best works in this + life are all imperfect and defiled with sin.[b] + verses: + a: + - Gal.3.10 + - Deut.27.26 + b: + - Isa.64.6 + - question: >- + What! do not our good works merit, which yet God will reward in this + and in a future life? + number: 63 + answer: >- + This reward is not of merit, but of grace.[a] + verses: + a: + - Luke.17.10 + - question: >- + But does not this doctrine make men careless and profane? + number: 64 + answer: >- + By no means: for it is impossible that those, who are implanted into + Christ by a true faith, should not bring forth fruits of + thankfulness.[a] + verses: + a: + - Matt.7.18 + - John.15.5 + - number: 25 + questions: + - question: >- + Since then we are made partakers of Christ and all his benefits by + faith only, whence does this faith proceed? + number: 65 + answer: >- + From the Holy Ghost,[a] who works faith in our hearts by the preaching + of the gospel, and confirms it by the use of the sacraments.[b] + verses: + a: + - Eph.2.8 + - Eph.2.9 + - Eph.6.23 + - John.3.5 + - Phil.1.29 + b: + - Matt.28.19 + - Matt.28.20 + - 1Pet.1.22 + - 1Pet.1.23 + - question: >- + What are the sacraments? + number: 66 + answer: >- + The sacraments are holy visible signs and seals, appointed of God for + this end, that by the use thereof, he may the more fully declare and + seal to us the promise of the gospel, viz., that he grants us freely + the remission of sin, and life eternal, for the sake of that one + sacrifice of Christ, accomplished on the cross.[a] + verses: + a: + - Gen.17.11 + - Rom.4.11 + - Deut.30.6 + - Lev.6.25 + - Heb.9.7 + - Heb.9.8 + - Heb.9.9 + - Heb.9.24 + - Ezek.20.12 + - Isa.6.6 + - Isa.6.7 + - Isa.54.9 + - question: >- + Are both word and sacraments, then, ordained and appointed for this + end, that they may direct our faith to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ + on the cross, as the only ground of our salvation? (a) + number: 67 + answer: >- + Yes, indeed: for the Holy Ghost teaches us in the gospel, and assures + us by the sacraments, that the whole of our salvation depends upon + that one sacrifice of Christ which he offered for us on the cross. + verses: + a: + - Rom.6.3 + - Gal.3.27 + - question: >- + How many sacraments has Christ instituted in the new covenant, or + testament? + number: 68 + answer: >- + Two: namely, holy baptism, and the holy supper. + - number: 26 + questions: + - question: >- + How art thou admonished and assured by holy baptism, that the one + sacrifice of Christ upon the cross is of real advantage to thee? + number: 69 + answer: >- + Thus: That Christ appointed this external washing with water,[a] + adding thereto this promise,[b] that I am as certainly washed by his + blood and Spirit from all the pollution of my soul, that is, from all + my sins,[c] as I am washed externally with water, by which the + filthiness of the body is commonly washed away. + verses: + a: + - Matt.28.19 + b: + - Matt.28.19 + - Acts.2.38 + - Matt.3.11 + - Mark.16.16 + - John.1.33 + - Rom.6.3 + - Rom.6.4 + c: + - 1Pet.3.21 + - Mark.1.4 + - Luke.3.3 + - question: >- + What is it to be washed with the blood and Spirit of Christ? + number: 70 + answer: >- + It is to receive of God the remission of sins, freely, for the sake of + Christ's blood, which he shed for us by his sacrifice upon the + cross;[a] and also to be renewed by the Holy Ghost, and sanctified to + be members of Christ, that so we may more and more die unto sin, and + lead holy and unblamable lives.[b] + verses: + a: + - Heb.12.24 + - 1Pet.1.2 + - Rev.1.5 + - Rev.7.14 + - Zech.13.1 + - Ezek.36.25 + b: + - John.1.33 + - John.3.5 + - 1Cor.6.11 + - 1Cor.12.13 + - Rom.6.4 + - Col.2.12 + - question: >- + Where has Christ promised us, that he will as certainly wash us by his + blood and Spirit, as we are washed with the water of baptism? + number: 71 + answer: >- + In the institution of baptism, which is thus expressed: "Go ye, + therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the + Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost", Matt.28:19. And "he + that believeth, and is baptized, shall be saved; but he that believeth + not, shall be damned.", Mark 16:16. This promise is also repeated, + where the scripture calls baptism "the washing of regenerations" and + the washing away of sins. Tit.3:5, Acts 22:16.[a] + verses: + a: + - Titus.3.5 + - Acts.22.16 + - number: 27 + questions: + - question: >- + Is then the external baptism with water the washing away of sin + itself? + number: 72 + answer: >- + Not at all:[a] for the blood of Jesus Christ only, and the Holy Ghost + cleanse us from all sin.[b] + verses: + a: + - Matt.3.11 + - 1Pet.3.21 + - Eph.5.26 + - Eph.5.27 + b: + - 1John.1.7 + - 1Cor.6.11 + - question: >- + Why then does the Holy Ghost call baptism "the washing of + regeneration," and "the washing away of sins"? + number: 73 + answer: >- + God speaks thus not without great cause, to-wit, not only thereby to + teach us, that as the filth of the body is purged away by water, so + our sins are removed by the blood and Spirit of Jesus Christ;[a] but + especially that by this divine pledge and sign he may assure us, that + we are spiritually cleansed from our sins as really, as we are + externally washed with water.[b] + verses: + a: + - Rev.1.5 + - Rev.7.14 + - 1Cor.6.11 + b: + - Mark.16.16 + - Gal.3.27 + - question: >- + Are infants also to be baptized? + number: 74 + answer: >- + Yes: for since they, as well as the adult, are included in the + covenant and church of God;[a] and since redemption from sin[b] by the + blood of Christ, and the Holy Ghost, the author of faith, is promised + to them no less than to the adult;[c] they must therefore by baptism, + as a sign of the covenant, be also admitted into the christian church; + and be distinguished from the children of unbelievers[d] as was done + in the old covenant or testament by circumcision,[e] instead of which + baptism is instituted[f] in the new covenant. + verses: + a: + - Gen.17.7 + b: + - Matt.19.14 + c: + - Luke.1.15 + - Ps.22.10 + - Isa.44.1 + - Isa.44.2 + - Isa.44.3 + - Acts.2.39 + d: + - Acts.10.47 + e: + - Gen.17.14 + f: + - Col.2.11 + - Col.2.12 + - Col.2.13 + - number: 28 + questions: + - question: >- + How art thou admonished and assured in the Lord's Supper, that thou + art a partaker of that one sacrifice of Christ, accomplished on the + cross, and of all his benefits? + number: 75 + answer: >- + Thus: That Christ has commanded me and all believers, to eat of this + broken bread, and to drink of this cup, in remembrance of him, adding + these promises:[a] first, that his body was offered and broken on the + cross for me, and his blood shed for me, as certainly as I see with my + eyes, the bread of the Lord broken for me, and the cup communicated to + me; and further, that he feeds and nourishes my soul to everlasting + life, with his crucified body and shed blood, as assuredly as I + receive from the hands of the minister, and taste with my mouth the + bread and cup of the Lord, as certain signs of the body and blood of + Christ. + verses: + a: + - Matt.26.26 + - Matt.26.27 + - Matt.26.28 + - Mark.14.22 + - Mark.14.23 + - Mark.14.24 + - Luke.22.19 + - Luke.22.20 + - 1Cor.10.16 + - 1Cor.10.17 + - 1Cor.11.23 + - 1Cor.11.24 + - 1Cor.11.25 + - 1Cor.12.13 + - question: >- + What is it then to eat the crucified body, and drink the shed blood of + Christ? + number: 76 + answer: >- + It is not only to embrace with believing heart all the sufferings and + death of Christ and thereby to obtain the pardon of sin, and life + eternal;[a] but also, besides that, to become more and more united to + his sacred body,[b] by the Holy Ghost, who dwells both in Christ and + in us; so that we, though Christ is in heaven[c] and we on earth, are + notwithstanding "flesh of his flesh and bone of his bone"[d] and that + we live, and are governed forever by one spirit,[e] as members of the + same body are by one soul. + verses: + a: + - John.6.35 + - John.6.40 + - John.6.47 + - John.6.48 + - John.6.49 + - John.6.50 + - John.6.51 + - John.6.52 + - John.6.53 + - John.6.54 + b: + - John.6.55 + - John.6.56 + c: + - Col.3.1 + - Acts.3.21 + - 1Cor.11.26 + d: + - Eph.3.16 + - Eph.5.29 + - Eph.5.30 + - Eph.5.32 + - 1Cor.6.15 + - 1Cor.6.17 + - 1Cor.6.19 + - 1John.3.24 + - 1John.4.13 + - John.14.23 + e: + - John.6.56 + - John.6.57 + - John.6.58 + - John.15.1 + - John.15.2 + - John.15.3 + - John.15.4 + - John.15.5 + - John.15.6 + - Eph.4.15 + - Eph.4.16 + - question: >- + Where has Christ promised that he will as certainly feed and nourish + believers with his body and bleed, as they eat of this broken bread, + and drink of this cup? + number: 77 + answer: >- + In the institution of the supper, which is thus expressed:[a] "The + Lord Jesus, the same night in which he was betrayed, took bread, and + when he had given thanks, he brake it, and: said: 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 ye, as often as ye drink it, + in remembrance of me. For, as often as ye eat this bread, and drink + this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till he come." 1 Cor.11:23-26. + This promise is repeated by the holy apostle Paul, where he says "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." 1 Cor.10:16,17. + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.11.23 + - 1Cor.11.24 + - 1Cor.11.25 + - Matt.26.26 + - Matt.26.27 + - Matt.26.28 + - Mark.14.22 + - Mark.14.23 + - Mark.14.24 + - Luke.22.19 + - Luke.22.20 + - 1Cor.10.16 + - 1Cor.10.17 + - number: 29 + questions: + - question: >- + Do then the bread and wine become the very body and blood of Christ? + number: 78 + answer: >- + Not at all:[a] but as the water in baptism is not changed into the + blood of Christ, neither is the washing away of sin itself, being only + the sign and confirmation thereof appointed of God;[b] so the bread in + the Lord's supper is not changed into the very body of Christ;[c] + though agreeably to the nature and properties of sacraments,[d] it is + called the body of Christ Jesus. + verses: + a: + - Matt.26.29 + b: + - Eph.5.26 + - Titus.3.5 + c: + - Mark.14.24 + - 1Cor.10.16 + - 1Cor.10.17 + - 1Cor.11.26 + - 1Cor.11.27 + - 1Cor.11.28 + d: + - Gen.17.10 + - Gen.17.11 + - Gen.17.14 + - Gen.17.19 + - Exod.12.11 + - Exod.12.13 + - Exod.12.27 + - Exod.12.43 + - Exod.12.48 + - Exod.13.9 + - 1Pet.3.21 + - 1Cor.10.1 + - 1Cor.10.2 + - 1Cor.10.3 + - 1Cor.10.4 + - question: >- + Why then doth Christ call the bread "his body", and the cup "his + blood", or "the new covenant in his blood"; and Paul the "communion of + body and blood of Christ"? + number: 79 + answer: >- + Christ speaks thus, not without great reason, namely, not only thereby + to teach us, that as bread and wine support this temporal life, so his + crucified body and shed blood are the true meat and drink, whereby our + souls are fed to eternal life;[a] but more especially by these visible + signs and pledges to assure us, that we are as really partakers of his + true body and blood by the operation of the Holy Ghost as we receive + by the mouths of our bodies these holy signs in remembrance of him;[b] + and that all his sufferings and obedience are as certainly ours, as if + we had in our own persons suffered and made satisfaction for our sins + to God. + verses: + a: + - John.6.51 + - John.6.55 + b: + - 1Cor.10.16 + - 1Cor.10.17 + - number: 30 + questions: + - question: >- + What difference is there between the Lord's supper and the popish + mass? + number: 80 + answer: >- + The Lord's supper testifies to us, that we have a full pardon of all + sin by the only sacrifice of Jesus Christ, which he himself has once + accomplished on the cross;[a] and, that we by the Holy Ghost are + ingrafted into Christ,[b] who, according to his human nature is now + not on earth, but in heaven, at the right hand of God his Father,[c] + and will there be worshipped by us.[d] But the mass teaches, that the + living and dead have not the pardon of sins through the sufferings of + Christ, unless Christ is also daily offered for them by the priests; + and further, that Christ is bodily under the form of bread and wine, + and therefore is to be worshipped in them; so that the mass, at + bottom, is nothing else than a denial of the one sacrifice and + sufferings of Jesus Christ, and an accursed idolatry.[e] + verses: + a: + - Heb.7.27 + - Heb.9.12 + - Heb.9.25 + - Heb.9.26 + - Heb.9.27 + - Heb.9.28 + - Heb.10.10 + - Heb.10.12 + - Heb.10.13 + - Heb.10.14 + - John.19.30 + - Matt.26.28 + - Luke.22.19 + - Luke.22.20 + b: + - 1Cor.6.17 + - 1Cor.10.16 + c: + - Heb.1.3 + - Heb.8.1 + - Heb.8.2 + - John.20.17 + d: + - Matt.6.20 + - Matt.6.21 + - John.4.21 + - John.4.22 + - John.4.23 + - John.4.24 + - Luke.24.52 + - Acts.7.55 + - Acts.7.56 + - Col.3.1 + - Phil.3.20 + - Phil.3.21 + - 1Thess.1.10 + - Heb.9.6 + - Heb.9.7 + - Heb.9.8 + - Heb.9.9 + - Heb.9.10 + e: + - Heb.9.26 + - Heb.10.12 + - Heb.10.14 + - Heb.10.19 + - Heb.10.20 + - Heb.10.21 + - Heb.10.22 + - Heb.10.23 + - Heb.10.24 + - Heb.10.25 + - Heb.10.26 + - Heb.10.27 + - Heb.10.28 + - Heb.10.29 + - Heb.10.30 + - Heb.10.31 + - question: >- + For whom is the Lord's supper instituted? + number: 81 + answer: >- + For those who are truly sorrowful for their sins, and yet trust that + these are forgiven them for the sake of Christ; and that their + remaining infirmities are covered by his passion and death; and who + also earnestly desire to have their faith more and more strengthened, + and their lives more holy; but hypocrites, and such as turn not to God + with sincere hearts, eat and drink judgment to themselves.[a] + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.10.19 + - 1Cor.10.20 + - 1Cor.10.21 + - 1Cor.10.22 + - 1Cor.11.28 + - 1Cor.11.29 + - question: >- + Are they also to be admitted to this supper, who, by confession and + life, declare themselves unbelieving and ungodly? + number: 82 + answer: >- + No; for by this, the covenant of God would be profaned, and his wrath + kindled against the whole congregation;[a] therefore it is the duty of + the christian church, according to the appointment of Christ and his + apostles, to exclude such persons, by the keys of the kingdom of + heaven, till they show amendment of life. + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.11.20 + - 1Cor.11.34 + - Isa.1.11 + - Isa.1.12 + - Isa.1.13 + - Isa.1.14 + - Isa.1.15 + - Isa.66.3 + - Jer.7.21 + - Jer.7.22 + - Jer.7.23 + - Ps.50.16 + - number: 31 + questions: + - question: >- + What are the keys of the kingdom of heaven? + number: 83 + answer: >- + The preaching of the holy gospel, and christian discipline, or + excommunication out of the christian church; by these two, the kingdom + of heaven is opened to believers, and shut against unbelievers. + - question: >- + How is the kingdom of heaven opened and shut by the preaching of the + holy gospel? + number: 84 + answer: >- + Thus: when according to the command of Christ, it is declared and + publicly testified to all and every believer, that, whenever they + receive the promise of the gospel by a true faith, all their sins are + really forgiven them of God, for the sake of Christ's merits; and on + the contrary, when it is declared and testified to all unbelievers, + and such as do not sincerely repent, that they stand exposed to the + wrath of God, and eternal condemnation, so long as they are + unconverted:[a] according to which testimony of the gospel, God will + judge them, both in this, and in the life to come. + verses: + a: + - Matt.16.18 + - Matt.16.19 + - Matt.18.15 + - Matt.18.16 + - Matt.18.17 + - Matt.18.18 + - Matt.18.19 + - John.20.21 + - John.20.22 + - John.20.23 + - question: >- + How is the kingdom of heaven shut and opened by christian discipline? + number: 85 + answer: >- + Thus: when according to the command of Christ, those, who under the + name of christians, maintain doctrines, or practices inconsistent + therewith, and will not, after having been often brotherly admonished, + renounce their errors and wicked course of life, are complained of to + the church, or to those, who are thereunto appointed by the church; + and if they despise their admonition, are by them forbidden the use of + the sacraments; whereby they are excluded from the christian church, + and by God himself from the kingdom of Christ; and when they promise + and show real amendment, are again received as members of Christ and + his church.[a] + verses: + a: + - Matt.18.15 + - Matt.18.16 + - Matt.18.17 + - Matt.18.18 + - 1Cor.5.2 + - 1Cor.5.3 + - 1Cor.5.4 + - 1Cor.5.5 + - 1Cor.5.11 + - 2Thess.3.14 + - 2Thess.3.15 + - 2Cor.2.6 + - 2Cor.2.7 + - 2Cor.2.8 + - number: 32 + questions: + - question: >- + Since then we are delivered from our misery, merely of grace, through + Christ, without any merit of ours, why must we still do good works? + number: 86 + answer: >- + Because Christ, having redeemed and delivered us by his blood, also + renews us by his Holy Spirit, after his own image; that so we may + testify, by the whole of our conduct, our gratitude to God for his + blessings,[a] and that he may be praised by us;[b] also, that every + one may be assured in himself of his faith,[c] by the fruits thereof; + and that, by our godly conversation others may be gained to Christ.[d] + verses: + a: + - Rom.6.13 + - Rom.12.1 + - Rom.12.2 + - 1Pet.2.5 + - 1Pet.2.9 + - 1Pet.2.10 + - 1Cor.6.20 + b: + - Matt.5.16 + - 1Pet.2.12 + - 1Pet.1.6 + - 1Pet.1.7 + c: + - 2Pet.1.10 + - Matt.7.17 + - Gal.5.6 + - Gal.5.22 + - Gal.5.23 + d: + - 1Pet.3.1 + - 1Pet.3.2 + - Rom.14.19 + - question: >- + Cannot they then be saved, who, continuing in their wicked and + ungrateful lives, are not converted to God? + number: 87 + answer: >- + By no means; for the holy scripture declares that no unchaste person, + idolater, adulterer, thief, covetous man, drunkard, slanderer, robber, + or any such like, shall inherit the kingdom of God.[a] + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.6.9 + - 1Cor.6.10 + - Eph.5.5 + - Eph.5.6 + - 1John.3.14 + - number: 33 + questions: + - question: >- + Of how many parts does the true conversion of man consist? + number: 88 + answer: >- + Of two parts; of the mortification of the old, and the quickening of + the new man.[a] + verses: + a: + - Rom.6.1 + - Rom.6.4 + - Rom.6.5 + - Rom.6.6 + - Eph.4.22 + - Eph.4.23 + - Eph.4.24 + - Col.3.5 + - Col.3.6 + - Col.3.7 + - Col.3.8 + - Col.3.9 + - Col.3.10 + - 1Cor.5.7 + - 2Cor.7.10 + - question: >- + What is the mortification of the old man? + number: 89 + answer: >- + It is a sincere sorrow of heart, that we have provoked God by our + sins; and more and more to hate and flee from them.[a] + verses: + a: + - Rom.8.13 + - Joel.2.13 + - Hos.6.1 + - question: >- + What is the quickening of the new man? + number: 90 + answer: >- + It is a sincere joy of heart in God, through Christ,[a] and with love + and delight to live according to the will of God in all good works.[b] + verses: + a: + - Rom.5.1 + - Rom.14.17 + - Isa.57.15 + b: + - Rom.6.10 + - Rom.6.11 + - Gal.2.20 + - question: >- + But what are good works? + number: 91 + answer: >- + Only those which proceed from a true faith,[a] are performed according + to the law of God,[b] and to his glory;[c] and not such as are founded + on our imaginations, or the institutions of men.[d] + verses: + a: + - Rom.14.23 + b: + - Lev.18.4 + - 1Sam.15.22 + - Eph.2.10 + c: + - 1Cor.10.31 + d: + - Deut.12.32 + - Ezek.20.18 + - Ezek.20.19 + - Isa.29.13 + - Matt.15.7 + - Matt.15.8 + - Matt.15.9 + - number: 34 + questions: + - question: >- + What is the law of God? + number: 92 + answer: >- + God spake all these words, saying: I am the LORD thy God, which have + brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. + + I. Thou shalt have no other gods before me. + + II. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of + any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or + that is in the water under the earth: thou shalt not bow down thyself + to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, + visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third + and fourth generation of them that hate me; and showing mercy unto + thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. + + III. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain: for the + Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. + + IV. Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou + labor, and do all thy work: but the seventh day is the sabbath of the + Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor + thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor + thy stranger that is within thy gates: for in six days the Lord made + heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the + seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed + it. + + V. Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the + land which the Lord thy God giveth thee. + + VI. Thou shalt not kill. + + VII. Thou shalt not commit adultery. + + VIII. Thou shalt not steal. + + IX. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor. + + X. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house, thou shalt not covet thy + neighbor's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maid-servant, nor his ox, + nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbor's.[a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.1-Exod.20.17 + - Deut.5.6-Deut.5.21 + + - question: >- + How are these commandments divided? + number: 93 + answer: >- + Into two tables;[a] the first of which teaches us how we must behave + towards God; the second, what duties we owe to our neighbour.[b] + verses: + a: + - Exod.34.28 + - Deut.4.13 + - Deut.10.3 + - Deut.10.4 + b: + - Matt.22.37 + - Matt.22.38 + - Matt.22.39 + - Matt.22.40 + - question: >- + What does God enjoin in the first commandment? + number: 94 + answer: >- + That I, as sincerely as I desire the salvation of my own soul, avoid + and flee from all idolatry,[a] sorcery, soothsaying, superstition,[b] + invocation of saints, or any other creatures;[c] and learn rightly to + know the only true God;[d] trust in him alone,[e] with humility[f] and + patience submit to him;[g] expect all good things from him only;[h] + love,[i] fear,[j] and glorify him with my whole heart;[k] so that I + renounce and forsake all creatures, rather than commit even the least + thing contrary to his will.[l] + verses: + a: + - 1John.5.21 + - 1Cor.6.9 + - 1Cor.6.10 + - 1Cor.10.7 + - 1Cor.10.14 + b: + - Lev.19.31 + - Deut.18.9 + - Deut.18.10 + - Deut.18.11 + - Deut.18.12 + c: + - Matt.4.10 + - Rev.19.10 + - Rev.22.8 + - Rev.22.9 + d: + - John.17.3 + e: + - Jer.17.5 + - Jer.17.7 + f: + - 1Pet.5.5 + - 1Pet.5.6 + g: + - Heb.10.36 + - Col.1.11 + - Rom.5.3 + - Rom.5.4 + - 1Cor.10.10 + - Phil.2.14 + h: + - Ps.104.27 + - Ps.104.28 + - Ps.104.29 + - Ps.104.30 + - Isa.45.7 + - Jas.1.17 + i: + - Deut.6.5 + - Matt.22.37 + j: + - Deut.6.2 + - Ps.111.10 + - Prov.1.7 + - Prov.9.10 + - Matt.10.28 + k: + - Matt.4.10 + - Deut.10.20 + - Deut.10.21 + l: + - Matt.5.29 + - Matt.5.30 + - Matt.10.37 + - Acts.5.29 + - question: >- + What is idolatry? + number: 95 + answer: >- + Idolatry is, instead of, or besides that one true God, who has + manifested himself in his word, to contrive, or have any other object, + in which men place their trust.[a] + verses: + a: + - Eph.5.5 + - 1Chr.16.26 + - Phil.3.19 + - Gal.4.8 + - Eph.2.12 + - 1John.2.23 + but: + - 2John.1.9 + - John.5.23 + - number: 35 + questions: + - question: >- + What does God require in the second commandment? + number: 96 + answer: >- + That we in no wise represent God by images,[a] nor worship him in any + other way than he has commanded in his word.[b] + verses: + a: + - Deut.4.15 + - Deut.4.16 + - Deut.4.17 + - Deut.4.18 + - Deut.4.19 + - Isa.40.18 + - Isa.40.19 + - Isa.40.20 + - Isa.40.21 + - Isa.40.22 + - Isa.40.23 + - Isa.40.24 + - Isa.40.25 + - Rom.1.23 + - Rom.1.24 + - Acts.17.29 + b: + - 1Sam.15.23 + - Deut.12.30 + - Deut.12.31 + - Deut.12.32 + - Matt.15.9 + - question: >- + Are images then not at all to be made? + number: 97 + answer: >- + God neither can, nor may be represented by any means:[a] but as to + creatures; though they may be represented, yet God forbids to make, or + have any resemblance of them, either in order to worship them or to + serve God by them.[b] + verses: + a: + - Isa.40.25 + b: + - Exod.23.24 + - Exod.23.25 + - Exod.34.13 + - Exod.34.14 + - Exod.34.17 + - Num.33.52 + - Deut.7.5 + - Deut.12.3 + - Deut.16.21 + - 2Kgs.18.3 + - 2Kgs.18.4 + - question: >- + But may not images be tolerated in the churches, as books to the + laity? + number: 98 + answer: >- + No: for we must not pretend to be wiser than God, who will have his + people taught, not by dumb images,[a] but by the lively preaching of + his word.[b] + verses: + a: + - Jer.10.8 + - Hab.2.18 + - Hab.2.19 + b: + - Rom.10.14 + - Rom.10.15 + - Rom.10.17 + - 2Pet.1.19 + - 2Tim.3.16 + - 2Tim.3.17 + - number: 36 + questions: + - question: >- + What is required in the third commandment? + number: 99 + answer: >- + That we, not only by cursing[a] or perjury,[b] but also by rash + swearing,[c] must not profane or abuse the name of God; nor by silence + or connivance be partakers of these horrible sins in others;[d] and, + briefly, that we use the holy name of God no otherwise than with fear + and reverence;[e] so that he may be rightly confessed[f] and + worshipped by us,[g] and be glorified in all our words and works.[h] + verses: + a: + - Lev.24.11 + - Lev.24.12 + - Lev.24.13 + - Lev.24.14 + - Lev.24.15 + - Lev.24.16 + b: + - Lev.19.12 + c: + - Matt.5.37 + - Jas.5.12 + d: + - Lev.5.1 + - Prov.29.24 + e: + - Jer.4.2 + - Isa.45.23 + f: + - Rom.10.9 + - Rom.10.10 + - Matt.10.32 + g: + - Ps.50.15 + - 1Tim.2.8 + h: + - Rom.2.24 + - 1Tim.6.1 + - Col.3.16 + - Col.3.17 + - question: >- + Is then the profaning of God's name, by swearing and cursing, so + heinous a sin, that his wrath is kindled against those who do not + endeavour, as much as in them lies, to prevent and forbid such cursing + and swearing? + number: 100 + answer: >- + It undoubtedly is,[a] for there is no sin greater or more provoking to + God, than the profaning of his name; and therefore he has commanded + this sin to be punished with death.[b] + verses: + a: + - Prov.29.24 + - Lev.5.1 + b: + - Lev.24.15 + - Lev.24.16 + - number: 37 + questions: + - question: >- + May we then swear religiously by the name of God? + number: 101 + answer: >- + Yes: either when the magistrates demand it of the subjects; or when + necessity requires us thereby to confirm a fidelity and truth to the + glory of God, and the safety of our neighbour: for such an oath is + founded on God's word,[a] and therefore was justly used by the saints, + both in the Old and New Testament.[b] + verses: + a: + - Deut.6.13 + - Deut.10.20 + - Isa.48.1 + - Heb.6.16 + b: + - Gen.21.24 + - Gen.31.53 + - Gen.31.54 + - Josh.9.15 + - Josh.9.19 + - 1Sam.24.22 + - 2Sam.3.35 + - 1Kgs.1.28 + - 1Kgs.1.29 + - 1Kgs.1.30 + - Rom.1.9 + - 2Cor.1.23 + - question: >- + May we also swear by saints or any other creatures? + number: 102 + answer: >- + No; for a lawful oath is calling upon God, as the only one who knows + the heart, that he will bear witness to the truth, and punish me if I + swear falsely;[a] which honour is due to no creature.[b] + verses: + a: + - 2Cor.1.23 + - Rom.9.1 + b: + - Matt.5.34 + - Matt.5.35 + - Matt.5.36 + - Jas.5.12 + - number: 38 + questions: + - question: >- + What does God require in the fourth commandment? + number: 103 + answer: >- + First, that the ministry of the gospel and the schools be + maintained;[a] and that I, especially on the sabbath, that is, on the + day of rest, diligently frequent the church of God,[b] to hear his + word,[c] to use the sacraments,[d] publicly to call upon the Lord,[e] + and contribute to the relief of the poor.[f] Secondly, that all the + days of my life I cease from my evil works, and yield myself to the + Lord, to work by his Holy Spirit in me: and thus begin in this life + the eternal sabbath.[g] + verses: + a: + - Titus.1.5 + - 2Tim.3.14 + - 2Tim.3.15 + - 1Tim.5.17 + - 1Cor.9.11 + - 1Cor.9.13 + - 1Cor.9.14 + - 2Tim.2.2 + b: + - Ps.40.10 + - Ps.40.11 + - Ps.68.27 + - Acts.2.42 + - Acts.2.46 + c: + - 1Tim.4.13 + - 1Cor.14.19 + - 1Cor.14.29 + - 1Cor.14.31 + d: + - 1Cor.11.33 + e: + - 1Tim.2.1 + - 1Tim.2.2 + - 1Tim.2.3 + - 1Tim.2.8 + - 1Tim.2.9 + - 1Tim.2.10 + - 1Tim.2.11 + - 1Cor.14.16 + f: + - 1Cor.16.2 + g: + - Isa.66.23 + - number: 39 + questions: + - question: >- + What does God require in the fifth commandment? + number: 104 + answer: >- + That I show all honour, love and fidelity, to my father and mother, + and all in authority over me, and submit myself to their good + instruction and correction, with due obedience;[a] and also patiently + bear with their weaknesses and infirmities,[b] since it pleases God to + govern us by their hand.[c] + verses: + a: + - Eph.5.22 + - Eph.6.1 + - Eph.6.2 + - Eph.6.3 + - Eph.6.4 + - Eph.6.5 + - Col.3.18 + - Col.3.20 + - Col.3.21 + - Col.3.22 + - Col.3.23 + - Col.3.24 + - Prov.1.8 + - Prov.4.1 + - Prov.15.20 + - Prov.20.20 + - Exod.21.17 + - Rom.13.1 + - Rom.13.2 + - Rom.13.3 + - Rom.13.4 + - Rom.13.5 + - Rom.13.6 + - Rom.13.7 + b: + - Prov.23.22 + - Gen.9.24 + - Gen.9.25 + - 1Pet.2.18 + c: + - Eph.6.4 + - Eph.6.9 + - Col.3.19 + - Col.3.20 + - Col.3.21 + - Rom.13.2 + - Rom.13.3 + - Matt.22.21 + - number: 40 + questions: + - question: >- + What does God require in the sixth commandment? + number: 105 + answer: >- + That neither in thoughts, nor words, nor gestures, much less in deeds, + I dishonour, hate, wound, or kill my neighbour, by myself or by + another:[a] but that I lay aside all desire of revenge:[b] also, that + I hurt not myself, nor wilfully expose myself to any danger.[c] + Wherefore also the magistrate is armed with the sword, to prevent + murder.[d] + verses: + a: + - Matt.5.21 + - Matt.5.22 + - Matt.26.52 + - Gen.9.6 + b: + - Eph.4.26 + - Rom.12.19 + - Matt.5.25 + - Matt.18.35 + c: + - Rom.13.14 + - Col.2.23 + - Matt.4.7 + d: + - Gen.9.6 + - Exod.21.14 + - Matt.26.52 + - Rom.13.4 + - question: >- + But this commandment seems only to speak of murder? + number: 106 + answer: >- + In forbidding murder, God teaches us, that he abhors the causes + thereof, such as envy,[a] hatred,[b] anger,[c] and desire of revenge; + and that he accounts all these as murder.[d] + verses: + a: + - Prov.14.30 + - Rom.1.29 + b: + - 1John.2.9 + - 1John.2.11 + c: + - Jas.1.20 + - Gal.5.19 + - Gal.5.20 + - Gal.5.21 + d: + - 1John.3.15 + - question: >- + But is it enough that we do not kill any man in the manner mentioned + above? + number: 107 + answer: >- + No: for when God forbids envy, hatred, and anger, he commands us to + love our neighbour as ourselves;[a] to show patience, peace, meekness, + mercy, and all kindness, towards him,[b] and prevent his hurt as much + as in us lies;[c] and that we do good, even to our enemies.[d] + verses: + a: + - Matt.7.12 + - Matt.22.39 + - Rom.12.10 + b: + - Eph.4.2 + - Gal.6.1 + - Gal.6.2 + - Matt.5.5 + - Matt.5.7 + - Matt.5.9 + - Rom.12.18 + - Luke.6.36 + - 1Pet.3.8 + - Col.3.12 + - Rom.12.10 + - Rom.12.15 + c: + - Exod.23.5 + d: + - Matt.5.44 + - Matt.5.45 + - Rom.12.20 + - Rom.12.21 + - number: 41 + questions: + - question: >- + What does the seventh commandment teach us? + number: 108 + answer: >- + That all uncleanness is accursed of God:[a] and that therefore we must + with all our hearts detest the same,[b] and live chastely and + temperately,[c] whether in holy wedlock, or in single life.[d] + verses: + a: + - Lev.18.27 + - Lev.18.28 + b: + - Jude.1.23 + c: + - 1Thess.4.3 + - 1Thess.4.4 + - 1Thess.4.5 + d: + - Heb.13.4 + - 1Cor.7.7 + - 1Cor.7.8 + - 1Cor.7.9 + - 1Cor.7.27 + - question: >- + Does God forbid in this commandment, only adultery, and such like + gross sins? + number: 109 + answer: >- + Since both our body and soul are temples of the holy Ghost, he + commands us to preserve them pure and holy: therefore he forbids all + unchaste actions, gestures, words,[a] thoughts, desires,[b] and + whatever can entice men thereto.[c] + verses: + a: + - Eph.5.3 + - Eph.5.4 + - 1Cor.6.18 + - 1Cor.6.19 + - 1Cor.6.20 + b: + - Matt.5.27 + - Matt.5.28 + c: + - Eph.5.18 + - 1Cor.15.33 + - number: 42 + questions: + - question: >- + What does God forbid in the eighth commandment? + number: 110 + answer: >- + God forbids not only those thefts,[a] and robberies,[b] which are + punishable by the magistrate; but he comprehends under the name of + theft all wicked tricks and devices, whereby we design to appropriate + to ourselves the goods which belong to our neighbour:[c] whether it be + by force, or under the appearance of right, as by unjust weights, + ells, measures, fraudulent merchandise,[d] false coins, usury,[e] or + by any other way forbidden by God; as also all covetousness,[f] all + abuse and waste of his gifts.[g] + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.6.10 + b: + - 1Cor.5.10 + - Isa.33.1 + c: + - Luke.3.14 + - 1Thess.4.6 + d: + - Prov.11.1 + - Prov.16.11 + - Ezek.45.9 + - Ezek.45.10 + - Ezek.45.11 + - Ezek.45.12 + - Deut.25.13 + - Deut.25.14 + - Deut.25.15 + - Deut.25.16 + e: + - Ps.15.5 + - Luke.6.35 + f: + - 1Cor.6.10 + g: + - Prov.23.20 + - Prov.23.21 + - Prov.21.20 + - question: >- + But what does God require in this commandment? + number: 111 + answer: >- + That I promote the advantage of my neighbour in every instance I can + or may; and deal with him as I desire to be dealt with by others:[a] + further also that I faithfully labour, so that I may be able to + relieve the needy.[b] + verses: + a: + - Matt.7.12 + b: + - Eph.4.28 + - number: 43 + questions: + - question: >- + What is required in the ninth commandment? + number: 112 + answer: >- + That I bear false witness against no man,[a] nor falsify any man's + words;[b] that I be no backbiter, nor slanderer;[c] that I do not + judge, nor join in condemning any man rashly, or unheard;[d] but that + I avoid all sorts of lies and deceit, as the proper works of the + devil,[e] unless I would bring down upon me the heavy wrath of God;[f] + likewise, that in judgment and all other dealings I love the truth, + speak it uprightly and confess it;[g] also that I defend and promote, + as much as I am able, the honor and good character of my neighbour.[h] + verses: + a: + - Prov.19.5 + - Prov.19.9 + - Prov.21.28 + b: + - Ps.15.3 + - Ps.50.19 + - Ps.50.20 + c: + - Rom.1.29 + - Rom.1.30 + d: + - Matt.7.1 + - Matt.7.2 + - Luke.6.37 + e: + - John.8.44 + f: + - Prov.12.22 + - Prov.13.5 + g: + - 1Cor.13.6 + - Eph.4.25 + h: + - 1Pet.4.8 + - number: 44 + questions: + - question: >- + What does the tenth commandment require of us? + number: 113 + answer: >- + That even the smallest inclination or thought, contrary to any of + God's commandments, never rise in our hearts; but that at all times we + hate all sin with our whole heart, and delight in all + righteousness.[a] + verses: + a: + - Rom.7.7 + - question: >- + But can those who are converted to God perfectly keep these + commandments? + number: 114 + answer: >- + No: but even the holiest men, while in this life, have only a small + beginning of this obedience;[a] yet so, that with a sincere resolution + they begin to live, not only according to some, but all the + commandments of God.[b] + verses: + a: + - 1John.1.8 + - 1John.1.9 + - 1John.1.10 + - Rom.7.14 + - Rom.7.15 + - Eccl.7.20 + - 1Cor.13.9 + b: + - Rom.7.22 + - Ps.1.2 + - Jas.2.10 + - question: >- + Why will God then have the ten commandments so strictly preached, + since no man in this life can keep them? + number: 115 + answer: >- + First, that all our lifetime we may learn more and more to know[a] our + sinful nature, and thus become the more earnest in seeking the + remission of sin, and righteousness in Christ;[b] likewise, that we + constantly endeavour and pray to God for the grace of the Holy Spirit, + that we may become more and more conformable to the image of God, till + we arrive at the perfection proposed to us, in a life to come.[c] + verses: + a: + - Rom.3.20 + - 1John.1.9 + - Ps.32.5 + b: + - Matt.5.6 + - Rom.7.24 + - Rom.7.25 + c: + - 1Cor.9.24 + - Phil.3.11 + - Phil.3.12 + - Phil.3.13 + - Phil.3.14 + - number: 45 + questions: + - question: >- + Why is prayer necessary for christians? + number: 116 + answer: >- + Because it is the chief part of thankfulness which God requires of + us:[a] and also, because God will give his grace and Holy Spirit to + those only, who with sincere desires continually ask them of him, and + are thankful for them.[b] + verses: + a: + - Ps.50.14 + - Ps.50.15 + b: + - Matt.7.7 + - Matt.7.8 + - Luke.11.9 + - Luke.11.10 + - Luke.11.13 + - 1Thess.5.17 + - question: >- + What are the requisites of that prayer, which is acceptable to God, + and which he will hear? + number: 117 + answer: >- + First, that we from the heart pray[a] to the one true God only, who + has manifested himself in his word,[b] for all things, he has + commanded us to ask of him;[c] secondly, that we rightly and + thoroughly know our need and misery,[d] that so we may deeply humble + ourselves in the presence of his divine majesty;[e] thirdly, that we + be fully persuaded that he, notwithstanding that we are unworthy of + it, will, for the sake of Christ our Lord, certainly hear our + prayer,[f] as he has promised us in his word.[g] + verses: + a: + - John.4.24 + - Ps.145.18 + b: + - Rev.19.10 + - John.4.22 + - John.4.23 + - John.4.24 + c: + - Rom.8.26 + - 1John.5.14 + - Jas.1.5 + d: + - 2Chr.20.12 + e: + - Ps.2.11 + - Ps.34.19 + - Isa.66.2 + f: + - Rom.10.14 + - Jas.1.6 + g: + - John.14.13 + - John.14.14 + - John.16.23 + - Dan.9.17 + - Dan.9.18 + h: + - Matt.7.8 + - Ps.27.8 + - question: >- + What has God commanded us to ask of him? + number: 118 + answer: >- + All things necessary for soul and body;[a] which Christ our Lord has + comprised in that prayer he himself has taught us.[a] James 1:17 Every + good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from + the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of + turning. Matt.6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his + righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. + - question: >- + What are the words of that prayer? (a) + number: 119 + answer: >- + Our Father which art in heaven, 1 Hallowed be thy name. 2 Thy kingdom + come. 3 Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. 4 Give us this + day our daily bread. 5 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our + debtors. 6 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. + For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. + Amen. + verses: + a: + - Matt.6.9 + - Matt.6.10 + - Matt.6.11 + - Matt.6.12 + - Matt.6.13 + - Luke.11.2 + - Luke.11.3 + - Luke.11.4 + - number: 46 + questions: + - question: >- + Why has Christ commanded us to address God thus: "Our Father"? + number: 120 + answer: >- + That immediately, in the very beginning of our prayer, he might excite + in us a childlike reverence for, and confidence in God, which are the + foundation of our prayer: namely, that God is become our Father in + Christ, and will much less deny us what we ask of him in true faith, + than our parents will refuse us earthly things.[a] + verses: + a: + - Matt.7.9 + - Matt.7.10 + - Matt.7.11 + - Luke.11.11 + - Luke.11.12 + - Luke.11.13 + - question: >- + Why is it here added, "Which art in heaven"? + number: 121 + answer: >- + Lest we should form any earthly conceptions of God's heavenly + majesty,[a] and that we may expect from his almighty power all things + necessary for soul and body.[b] + verses: + a: + - Jer.23.23 + - Jer.23.24 + - Acts.17.24 + - Acts.17.25 + - Acts.17.27 + b: + - Rom.10.12 + - number: 47 + questions: + - question: >- + Which is the first petition? + number: 122 + answer: >- + "Hallowed be thy name"; that is, grant us, first, rightly to know + thee,[a] and to sanctify, glorify and praise thee,[b] in all thy + works, in which thy power, wisdom, goodness, justice, mercy and truth, + are clearly displayed; and further also, that we may so order and + direct our whole lives, our thoughts, words and actions, that thy name + may never be blasphemed, but rather honoured and praised on our + account.[c] + verses: + a: + - John.17.3 + - Jer.9.24 + - Jer.31.33 + - Jer.31.34 + - Matt.16.17 + - Jas.1.5 + - Ps.119.105 + b: + - Ps.119.137 + - Luke.1.46 + - Luke.1.47 + - Luke.1.68 + - Luke.1.69 + - Rom.11.33 + - Rom.11.34 + - Rom.11.35 + - Rom.11.36 + c: + - Ps.71.8 + - Ps.115.1 + - number: 48 + questions: + - question: >- + Which is the second petition? + number: 123 + answer: >- + "Thy kingdom come"; that is, rule us so by thy word and Spirit, that + we may submit ourselves more and more to thee;[a] preserve and + increase thy church;[b] destroy the works of the devil, and all + violence which would exalt itself against thee; and also all wicked + counsels devised against thy holy word;[c] till the full perfection of + thy kingdom take place,[d] wherein thou shalt be all in all.[e] + verses: + a: + - Matt.6.33 + - Ps.119.5 + - Ps.143.10 + b: + - Ps.51.18 + - Ps.122.6 + - Ps.122.7 + - Ps.122.8 + - Ps.122.9 + c: + - 1John.3.8 + - Rom.16.20 + d: + - Rev.22.17 + - Rev.22.20 + - Rom.8.22 + - Rom.8.23 + e: + - 1Cor.15.28 + - number: 49 + questions: + - question: >- + Which is the third petition? + number: 124 + answer: >- + "Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven"; that is, grant that we + and all men may renounce our own will,[a] and without murmuring obey + thy will, which is only good;[b] that every one may attend to, and + perform the duties of his station and calling,[c] as willingly and + faithfully as the angels do in heaven.[d] + verses: + a: + - Matt.16.24 + - Titus.2.11 + - Titus.2.12 + b: + - Luke.22.42 + - Eph.5.10 + - Rom.12.2 + c: + - 1Cor.7.24 + d: + - Ps.103.20 + - Ps.103.21 + - number: 50 + questions: + - question: >- + Which is the fourth petition? + number: 125 + answer: >- + "Give us this day our daily bread"; that is, be pleased to provide us + with all things necessary for the body,[a] that we may thereby + acknowledge thee to be the only fountain of all good,[b] and that + neither our care nor industry, nor even thy gifts, can profit us + without thy blessing;[c] and therefore that we may withdraw our trust + from all creatures, and place it alone in thee.[d] + verses: + a: + - Ps.104.27 + - Ps.104.28 + - Ps.145.15 + - Ps.145.16 + - Matt.6.25 + - Matt.6.26 + b: + - Jas.1.17 + - Acts.14.17 + - Acts.17.27 + - Acts.17.28 + c: + - 1Cor.15.58 + - Deut.8.3 + - Ps.37.3 + - Ps.37.4 + - Ps.37.5 + - Ps.37.16 + - Ps.127.1 + - Ps.127.2 + d: + - Ps.55.23 + - Ps.62.11 + - Ps.146.3 + - Jer.17.5 + - Jer.17.7 + - number: 51 + questions: + - question: >- + Which is the fifth petition? + number: 126 + answer: >- + "And forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors"; that is, be + pleased for the sake of Christ's blood, not to impute to us poor + sinners, our transgressions, nor that depravity, which always cleaves + to us;[a] even as we feel this evidence of thy grace in us, that it is + our firm resolution from the heart to forgive our neighbour.[b] + verses: + a: + - Ps.51.1 + - Ps.51.2 + - Ps.51.3 + - Ps.51.4 + - Ps.51.5 + - Ps.51.6 + - Ps.51.7 + - Ps.143.2 + - 1John.2.1 + - 1John.2.2 + - Rom.8.1 + b: + - Matt.6.14 + - Matt.6.15 + - number: 52 + questions: + - question: >- + Which is the sixth petition? + number: 127 + answer: >- + "And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil"; that is, + since we are so weak in ourselves, that we cannot stand a moment;[a] + and besides this, since our mortal enemies, the devil,[b] the + world,[c] and our own flesh,[d] cease not to assault us, do thou + therefore preserve and strengthen us by the power of thy Holy Spirit, + that we may not be overcome in this spiritual warfare,[e] but + constantly and strenuously may resist our foes, till at last we obtain + a complete victory.[f] + verses: + a: + - John.15.5 + - Ps.103.14 + b: + - 1Pet.5.8 + - Eph.6.12 + c: + - John.15.19 + d: + - Rom.7.23 + - Gal.5.17 + e: + - Matt.26.41 + - Mark.13.33 + f: + - 1Thess.3.13 + - 1Thess.5.23 + - question: >- + How dost thou conclude thy prayer? + number: 128 + answer: >- + "For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever"; + that is, all these we ask of thee, because thou, being our King and + almighty, art willing and able to give us all good;[a] and all this we + pray for, that thereby not we, but thy holy name, may be glorified for + ever.[b] + verses: + a: + - Rom.10.11 + - Rom.10.12 + - 2Pet.2.9 + b: + - John.14.13 + - Jer.33.8 + - Jer.33.9 + - Ps.115.1 + - question: >- + What does the word "Amen" signify? + number: 129 + answer: >- + "Amen" signifies, it shall truly and certainly be: for my prayer is + more assuredly heard of God, than I feel in my heart that I desire + these things of him.[a] + verses: + a: + - 2Cor.1.20 + - 2Tim.2.13 +... diff --git a/data/westminster/directory-for-family-worship.yaml b/data/westminster/directory-for-family-worship.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..f5bde1dce8a81e3994f9b2d5a4ff3fa5ee25ca4b --- /dev/null +++ b/data/westminster/directory-for-family-worship.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,300 @@ +--- +name: The Directory for Family Worship +publication_year: 1647 +type: document +markdown: true +chapters: + - name: Preface + text: | + + Assembly at Edinburgh, August 24, 1647, Sess. 10. + + *Act for observing the Directions of the GENERAL ASSEMBLY for secret + and private Worship, and mutual Edification; and censuring such as + neglect Family-worship.* + + The General Assembly, after mature deliberation, + doth approve the following Rules and Directions for cherishing piety, + and preventing division and schism; and doth appoint ministers and + ruling elders in each congregation to take special care that these + Directions be observed and followed; as likewise, that presbyteries and + provincial synods enquire and make trial whether the said Directions be + duly observed in their bounds; and to reprove or censure (according to + the quality of the offence), such as shall be found to be reprovable or + censurable therein. And, to the end that these directions may not be + rendered ineffectual and unprofitable among some, through the usual + neglect of the very substance of the duty of Family-worship, the + Assembly doth further require and appoint ministers and ruling elders to + make diligent search and enquiry, in the congregations committed to + their charge respectively, whether there be among them any family or + families which use to neglect this necessary duty; and if any such + family be found, the head of the family is to be first adminished + privately to amend his fault; and, in case of his continuing therein, he + is to be gravely and sadly reproved by the session; after which reproof, + if he be found still to neglect Family-worship, let him be, for his + obstinacy in such an offence, suspended and debarred from the Lord's + supper, as being justly esteemed unworthy to communicate therein, till + he amend. + + ------------------------------------------------------------------------- + + ## DIRECTIONS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY + + *Concerning secret and private worship, and mutual edification; for + cherishing piety, for maintaining unity, and avoiding schism and + division.* + + Besides the publick worship in congregations, mercifully established in + this land in great purity, it is expedient and necessary that secret + worship of each person alone, and private worship of families, be + pressed and set up; that, with national reformation, the profession and + power of godliness, both personal and domestick, be advanced. + + - name: I. + text: | + + And first, for secret worship, it is most necessary, that every one + apart, and by themselves, be given to prayer and meditation, the + unspeakable benefit whereof is best known to them who are most exercised + therein; this being the mean whereby, in a special way, communion with + God is entertained, and right preparation for all other duties obtained: + and therefore it becometh not only pastors, within their several + charges, to press persons of all sorts to perform this duty morning and + evening, and at other occasions; but also it is incumbent to the head of + every family to have a care, that both themselves, and all within their + charge, be daily diligent herein. + + - name: II. + text: | + + The ordinary duties comprehended under the exercise of piety which + should be in families, when they are convened to that effect, are these: + First, Prayer and praises performed with a special reference, as well to + the publick condition of the kirk of God and this kingdom, as to the + present case of the family, and every member thereof. Next, Reading of + the scriptures, with catechising in a plain way, that the understandings + of the simpler may be the better enabled to profit under the publick + ordinances, and they made more capable to understand the scriptures when + they are read; together with godly conferences tending to the + edification of all the members in the most holy faith: as also, + admonition and rebuke, upon just reasons, from those who have authority + in the family. + + - name: III. + text: | + + As the charge and office of interpreting the holy scriptures is a part + of the ministerial calling, which none (however otherwise qualified) + should take upon him in any place, but he that is duly called thereunto + by God and his kirk; so in every family where there is any that can + read, the holy scriptures should be read ordinarily to the family; and + it is commendable, that thereafter they confer, and by way of conference + make some good use of what hath been read and heard. As, for example, if + any sin be reproved in the word read, use may be made thereof to make + all the family circumspect and watchful against the same; or if any + judgment be threatened, or mentioned to have been inflicted, in that + portion of scripture which is read, use may be made to make all the + family fear lest the same or a worse judgment befall them, unless they + beware of the sin that procured it: and, finally, if any duty be + required, or comfort held forth in a promise, use may be made to stir up + themselves to employ Christ for strength to enable them for doing the + commanded duty, and to apply the offered comfort. In all which the + master of the family is to have the chief hand; and any member of the + family may propone a question or doubt for resolution. + + - name: IV. + text: | + + The head of the family is to take care that none of the family withdraw + himself from any part of family-worship: and, seeing the ordinary + performance of all the parts of family-worship belongeth properly to the + head of the family, the minister is to stir up such as are lazy, and + train up such as are weak, to a fitness to these exercises; it being + always free to persons of quality to entertain one approved by the + presbytery for performing family-exercise. And in other families, where + the head of the family is unfit, that another, constantly residing in + the family, approved by the minister and session, may be employed in + that service, wherein the minister and session are to be countable to + the presbytery. And if a minister, by divine Providence, be brought to + any family, it is requisite that at no time he convene a part of the + family for worship, secluding the rest, except in singular cases + especially concerning these parties, which (in Christian prudence) need + not, or ought not, to be imparted to others. + + - name: V. + text: | + + Let no idler, who hath no particular calling, or vagrant person under + pretence of a calling, be suffered to perform worship in families, to or + for the same; seeing persons tainted with errors, or aiming at division, + may be ready (after that manner) to creep into houses, and lead captive + silly and unstable souls. + + - name: VI. + text: | + + At family-worship, a special care is to be had that each family keep by + themselves; neither requiring, inviting, nor admitting persons from + divers families, unless it be those who are lodged with them, or at + meals, or otherwise with them upon some lawful occasion. + + - name: VII. + text: | + + Whatsoever have been the effects and fruits of meetings of persons of + divers families in the times of corruption or trouble, (in which cases + many things are commendable, which otherwise are not tolerable,) yet, + when God hath blessed us with peace and purity of the gospel, such + meetings of persons of divers families (except in cases mentioned in + these Directions) are to be disapproved, as tending to the hinderance of + the religious exercise of each family by itself, to the prejudice of the + publick ministry, to the rending of the families of particular + congregations, and (in progress of time) of the whole kirk. Besides many + offences which may come thereby, to the hardening of the hearts of + carnal men, and grief of the godly. + + - name: VIII. + text: | + + On the Lord's day, after every one of the family apart, and the whole + family together, have sought the Lord (in whose hands the preparation of + men's hearts are) to fit them for the publick worship, and to bless to + them the publick ordinances, the master of the family ought to take care + that all within his charge repair to the publick worship, that he and + they may join with the rest of the congregation: and the publick worship + being finished, after prayer, he should take an account what they have + heard; and thereafter, to spend the rest of the time which they may + spare in catechising, and in spiritual conferences upon the word of God: + or else (going apart) they ought to apply themselves to reading, + meditation, and secret prayer, that they may confirm and increase their + communion with God: that so the profit which they found in the publick + ordinances may be cherished and promoved, and they more edified unto + eternal life. + + - name: IX. + text: | + + So many as can conceive prayer, ought to make use of that gift of God; + albeit those who are rude and weaker may begin at a set form of prayer, + but so as they be not sluggish in stirring up in themselves (according + to their daily necessities) the spirit of prayer, which is given to all + the children of God in some measure: to which effect, they ought to be + more fervent and frequent in secret prayer to God, for enabling of their + hearts to conceive, and their tongues to express, convenient desires to + God for their family. And, in the meantime, for their greater + encouragement, let these materials of prayer be meditated upon, and made + use of, as followeth. + + > Let them confess to God how unworthy they are to come in his presence, + > and how unfit to worship his Majesty; and therefore earnestly ask of God + > the spirit of prayer. + + > They are to confess their sins, and the sins of the family; accusing, + > judging, and condemning themselves for them, till they bring their souls + > to some measure of true humiliation. + + > They are to pour out their souls to God, in the name of Christ, by the + > Spirit, for forgiveness of sins; for grace to repent, to believe, and to + > live soberly, righteously, and godly; and that they may serve God with + > joy and delight, walking before him. + + > They are to give thanks to God for his many mercies to his people, and + > to themselves, and especially for his love in Christ, and for the light + > of the gospel. + + > They are to pray for such particular benefits, spiritual and temporal, + > as they stand in need of for the time, (whether it be morning or + > evening,) as anent health or sickness, prosperity or adversity. + + > They ought to pray for the kirk of Christ in general, for all the + > reformed kirks, and for this kirk in particular, and for all that suffer + > for the name of Christ; for all our superiors, the king's majesty, the + > queen, and their children; for the magistrates, ministers, and whole + > body of the congregation whereof they are members, as well for their + > neighbours absent in their lawful affairs, as for those that are at + > home. + + > The prayer may be closed with an earnest desire that God may be + > glorified in the coming of the kingdom of his Son, and in doing of his + > will, and with assurance that themselves are accepted, and what they + > have asked according to his will shall be done." + + - name: X. + text: | + + These exercises ought to be performed in great sincerity, without delay, + laying aside all exercises of worldly business or hinderances, not + withstanding the mockings of atheists and profane men; in respect of the + great mercies of God to this land, and of his severe corrections + wherewith lately he hath exercised us. And, to this effect, persons of + eminency (and all elders of the kirk) not only ought to stir up + themselves and families to diligence herein, but also to concur + effectually, that in all other families, where they have power and + charge, the said exercises be conscionably performed. + + - name: XI. + text: | + + Besides the ordinary duties in families, which are above mentioned, + extraordinary duties, both of humiliation and thanksgiving, are to be + carefully performed in families, when the Lord, by extraordinary + occasions, (private or publick,) calleth for them. + + - name: XII. + text: | + + Seeing the word of God requireth that we should consider one another, to + provoke unto love and good works; therefore, at all times, and specially + in this time, wherein profanity abounds, and mockers, walking after + their own lusts, think it strange that others run not with them to the + same excess of riot; every member of this kirk ought to stir up + themselves, and one another, to the duties of mutual edification, by + instruction, admonition, rebuke; exhorting one another to manifest the + grace of God in denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, and in living + godly, soberly and righteously in this present world; by comforting the + feeble-minded, and praying with or for one another. Which duties + respectively are to be performed upon special occasions offered by + Divine Providence; as, namely, when under any calamity, cross, or great + difficulty, counsel or comfort is sought; or when an offender is to be + reclaimed by private admonition, and if that be not effectual, by + joining one or two more in the admonition, according to the rule of + Christ, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be + established. + + - name: XIII. + text: | + + And, because it is not given to every one to speak a word in season to a + wearied or distressed conscience, it is expedient, that a person (in + that case,) finding no ease, after the use of all ordinary means, + private and publick, have their address to their own pastor, or some + experienced Christian: but if the person troubled in conscience be of + that condition, or of that sex, that discretion, modesty, or fear of + scandal, requireth a godly, grave, and secret friend to be present with + them in their said address, it is expedient that such a friend be + present. + + - name: XIV. + text: | + + When persons of divers families are brought together by Divine + Providence, being abroad upon their particular vocations, or any + necessary occasions; as they would have the Lord their God with them + whithersoever they go, they ought to walk with God, and not neglect the + duties of prayer and thanksgiving, but take care that the same be + performed by such as the company shall judge fittest. And that they + likewise take heed that no corrupt communication proceed out of their + mouths, but that which is good, to the use of edifying, that it may + minister grace to the hearers. + + The drift and scope of all these Directions is no other, but that, upon + the one part, the power and practice of godliness, amongst all the + ministers and members of this kirk, according to their several places + and vocations, may be cherished and advanced, and all impiety and + mocking of religious exercises suppressed: and, upon the other part, + that, under the name and pretext of religious exercises, no such + meetings or practices be allowed, as are apt to breed error, scandal, + schism, contempt, or misregard of the publick ordinances and ministers, + or neglect of the duties of particular callings, or such other evils as + are the works, not of the Spirit, but of the flesh, and are contrary to + truth and peace. diff --git a/data/westminster/directory-for-publick-worship.yaml b/data/westminster/directory-for-publick-worship.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..70457c95ad0db3b9bbe8dfcc797741a9c3c43b5b --- /dev/null +++ b/data/westminster/directory-for-publick-worship.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,1310 @@ +--- +name: The Directory for Publick Worship +publication_year: 1645 +type: document +markdown: true +chapters: + - name: The preface + text: | + In the beginning of the blessed Reformation, our wise and pious ancestors + took care to set forth an order for redress of many things, which they + then, by the word, discovered to be vain erroneous, superstitious, and + idolatrous, in the publick worship of God. This occasioned many godly and + learned men to rejoice much in the Book of Common Prayer, at that time set + forth; because the mass, and the rest of the Latin service being removed, + the publick worship was celebrated in our own tongue: many of the common + people also receive benefit by hearing the scriptures read in their own + language, which formerly were unto them as a book that is sealed. + + Howbeit, long and sad experience hath made it manifest, that the Liturgy + used in the Church of England, (notwithstanding all the pains and + religious intentions of the Compilers of it,) hath proved an offence, not + only to many of the godly at home, but also to the reformed Churches + abroad. For, not to speak of urging the reading of all the prayers, which + very greatly increased the burden of it, the many unprofitable and + + burdensome ceremonies contained in it have occasioned much mischief, as + well by disquieting the consciences of many godly ministers and people, + who could not yield unto them, as by depriving them of the ordinances of + God, which they might not enjoy without conforming or subscribing to those + ceremonies. Sundry good Christians have been, by means thereof, kept from + the Lord's table; and divers able and faithful ministers debarred from the + exercise of their ministry, (to the endangering of many thousand souls, in + a time of such scarcity of faithful pastors,) and spoiled of their + livelihood, to the undoing of them and their families. Prelates, and their + faction, have laboured to raise the estimation of it to such a height, as + if there were no other worship, or way of worship of God, amongst us, but + only the Service-book; to the great hinderance of the preaching of the + word, and (in some places, especially of late) to the justling of it out + as unnecessary, or at best, as far inferior to the reading of common + prayer; which was made no better than an idol by many ignorant and + superstitious people, who, pleasing themselves in their presence at that + service, and their lip-labour in bearing a part in it, have thereby + hardened themselves in their ignorance and carelessness of saving + knowledge and true piety. + + In the meantime, Papists boasted that the book was a compliance with them + in a great part of their service; and so were not a little confirmed in + their superstition and idolatry, expecting rather our return to them, than + endeavouring the reformation of themselves: in which expectation they were + of late very much encouraged, when, upon the pretended warrantableness of + imposing of the former ceremonies, new ones were daily obtruded upon the + Church. + + Add hereunto, (which was not foreseen, but since have come to pass,) that + the Liturgy hath been a great means, as on the one hand to make and + increase an idle and unedifying ministry, which contented itself with set + forms made to their hands by others, without putting forth themselves to + exercise the gift of prayer, with which our Lord Jesus Christ pleaseth to + furnish all his servants whom he calls to that office: so, on the other + side, it hath been (and ever would be, if continued) a matter of endless + strife and contention in the Church, and a snare both to many godly and + faithful ministers, who have been persecuted and silenced upon that + occasion, and to others of hopeful parts, many of which have been, and + more still would be, diverted from all thoughts of the ministry to other + studies; especially in these latter times, wherein God vouchsafeth to his + people more and better means for the discovery of error and superstition, + and for attaining of knowledge in the mysteries of godliness, and gifts in + preaching and prayer. + + Upon these, and many the like weighty considerations in reference to the + whole book in general, and because of divers particulars contained in it; + not from any love to novelty, or intention to disparage our first + reformers, (of whom we are persuaded, that, were they now alive, they + would join with us in this work, and whom we acknowledge as excellent + instruments, raised by God, to begin the purging and building of his + house, and desire they may be had of us and posterity in everlasting + remembrance, with thankfulness and honour,) but that we may in some + measure answer the gracious providence of God, which at this time calleth + upon us for further reformation, and may satisfy our own consciences, and + answer the expectation of other reformed churches, and the desires of many + of the godly among ourselves, and withal give some publick testimony of + our endeavours for uniformity in divine worship, which we have promised in + our Solemn League and Covenant; we have, after earnest and frequent + calling upon the name of God, and after much consultation, not with flesh + and blood, but with his holy word, resolved to lay aside the former + Liturgy, with the many rites and ceremonies formerly used in the worship + of God; and have agreed upon this following Directory for all the parts of + publick worship, at ordinary and extraordinary times. Wherein our care + hath been to hold forth such things as are of divine institution in every + ordinance; and other things we have endeavoured to set forth according to + the rules of Christian prudence, agreeable to the general rules of the + word of God; our meaning therein being only, that the general heads, the + sense and scope of the prayers, and other parts of publick worship, being + known to all, there may be a consent of all the churches in those things + that contain the substance of the service and worship of God; and the + ministers may be hereby directed, in their administrations, to keep like + soundness in doctrine and prayer, and may, if need be, have some help and + furniture, and yet so as they become not hereby slothful and negligent in + stirring up the gifts of Christ in them; but that each one, by meditation, + by taking heed to himself, and the flock of God committed to him, and by + wise observing the ways of Divine Providence, may be careful to furnish + his heart and tongue with further or other materials of prayer and + exhortation, as shall be needful upon all occasions. + + - name: Of the Assembling of the Congregation, and their Behaviour in the Publick Worship of God. + text: | + + When the congregation is to meet for publick worship, the people (having + before prepared their hearts thereunto) ought all to come and join + therein; not absenting themselves from the publick ordinance through + negligence, or upon pretence of private meetings. + + Let all enter the assembly, not irreverently, but in a grave and seemly + manner, taking their seats or places without adoration, or bowing + themselves towards one place or other. + + The congregation being assembled, the minister, after solemn calling on + them to the worshipping of the great name of God, is to begin with + prayer. + + "In all reverence and humility acknowledging the incomprehensible + greatness and majesty of the Lord, (in whose presence they do then in a + special manner appear,) and their own vileness and unworthiness to + approach so near him, with their utter inability of themselves to so + great a work; and humbly beseeching him for pardon, assistance, and + acceptance, in the whole service then to be performed; and for a blessing + on that particular portion of his word then to be read: And all in the + name and mediation of the Lord Jesus Christ." + + The publick worship being begun, the people are wholly to attend upon it, + forbearing to read any thing, except what the minister is then reading or + citing; and abstaining much more from all private whisperings, + conferences, salutations, or doing reverence to any person present, or + coming in; as also from all gazing, sleeping, and other indecent + behaviour, which may disturb the minister or people, or hinder themselves + or others in the service of God. + + If any, through necessity, be hindered from being present at the + beginning, they ought not, when they come into the congregation, to + betake themselves to their private devotions, but reverently to compose + themselves to join with the assembly in that ordinance of God which is + then in hand. + + - name: Of Publick Reading of the Holy Scriptures. + text: | + + Reading of the word in the congregation, being part of the publick + worship of God, (wherein .i.we; acknowledge our dependence upon him, and + subjection to him,) and one mean sanctified by him for the edifying of + his people, is to be performed by the pastors and teachers. + + Howbeit, such as intend the ministry, may occasionally both read the + word, and exercise their gift in preaching in the congregation, if + allowed by the presbytery thereunto. + + All the canonical books of the Old and New Testament (but none of those + which are commonly called *Apocrypha*) shall be publickly read in the + vulgar tongue, out of the best allowed translation, distinctly, that all + may hear and understand. + + How large a portion shall be read at once, is left to the wisdom of the + minister; but it is convenient, that ordinarily one chapter of each + Testament be read at every meeting; and sometimes more, where the + chapters be short, or the coherence of matter requireth it. + + It is requisite that all the canonical books be read over in order, that + the people may be better acquainted with the whole body of the + scriptures; and ordinarily, where the reading in either Testament endeth + on one Lord's day, it is to begin the next. + + We commend also the more frequent reading of such scriptures as he that + readeth shall think best for edification of his hearers, as the book of + Psalms, and such like. + + When the minister who readeth shall judge it necessary to expound any + part of what is read, let it not be done until the whole chapter or psalm + be ended; and regard is always to be had unto the time, that neither + preaching, nor other ordinances be straitened, or rendered tedious. Which + rule is to be observed in all other publick performances. + + Beside publick reading of the holy scriptures, every person that can + read, is to be exhorted to read the scriptures privately, (and all others + that cannot read, if not disabled by age, or otherwise, are likewise to + be exhorted to learn to read,) and to have a Bible. + + - name: Of Publick Prayer before the Sermon. + text: | + + After reading of the word, (and singing of the psalm,) the minister who + is to preach, is to endeavour to get his own and his hearers hearts to be + rightly affected with their sins, that they, may all mourn in sense + thereof before the Lord, and hunger and thirst after the grace of God in + Jesus Christ, by proceeding to a more full confession of sin, with shame + and holy confusion of face, and to call upon the Lord to this effect: + + "To acknowledge our great sinfulness, First, by reason of original sin, + which (beside the guilt that makes us liable to everlasting damnation) is + the seed of all other sins, hath depraved and poisoned all the faculties + and powers of soul and body, doth defile our best actions, and (were it + not restrained, or our hearts renewed by grace) would break forth into + innumerable transgressions, and greatest rebellions against the Lord that + ever were committed by the vilest of the sons of men; and next, by reason + of actual sins, our own sins, the sins of magistrates, of ministers, and + of the whole nation, unto which we are many ways accessory: which sins of + ours receive many fearful aggravations, we having broken all the + commandments of the holy, just, and good law of God, doing that which is + forbidden, and leaving undone what is enjoined; and that not only out of + ignorance and infirmity, but also more pre sumptuously, against the light + of our minds, checks of our consciences, and motions of his own Holy + Spirit to the contrary, so that we have no cloak for our sins; yea, not + only despising the riches of God's goodness, forbearance, and + long-suffering, but standing out against many invitations and offers of + grace in the gospel; not endeavouring, as we ought, to receive Christ + into our hearts by faith, or to walk worthy of him in our lives. + + To bewail our blindness of mind, hardness of heart, unbelief, + impenitency, security, lukewarmness, barrenness; or not endeavouring + after mortification and newness of life, nor after the exercise of + godliness in the power thereof; and that the best of us have not so + stedfastly walked with God, kept our garments so unspotted, nor been so + zealous of his glory, and the good of others, as we ought: and to mourn + over such other sins as the congregation is particularly guilty of, + notwithstanding the manifold and great mercies of our God, the love of + Christ, the light of the gospel, and reformation of religion, our own + purposes, promises, vows, solemn covenant, and other special obligations, + to the contrary. + + To acknowledge and confess, that, as we are convinced of our guilt, so, + out of a deep sense thereof, we judge ourselves unworthy of the smallest + benefits, most worthy of God's fiercest wrath, and of all the curses of + the law, and heaviest judgments inflicted upon the most rebellious + sinners; and that he might most justly take his kingdom and gospel from + us, plague us with all sorts of spiritual and temporal judgments in this + life, and after cast us into utter darkness, in the lake that burneth + with fire and brimstone, where is weeping and gnashing of teeth for + evermore. + + Notwithstanding all which, to draw near to the throne of grace, + encouraging ourselves with hope of a gracious answer of our prayers, in + the riches and all-sufficiency of that only one oblation, the + satisfaction and intercession of the Lord Jesus Christ, at the right hand + of his Father and our Father; and in confidence of the exceeding great + and precious promises of mercy and grace in the new covenant, through the + same Mediator thereof, to deprecate the heavy wrath and curse of God, + which we are not able to avoid, or bear; and humbly and earnestly to + supplicate for mercy, in the free and full remission of all our sins, and + that only for the bitter sufferings and precious merits of that our only + Saviour Jesus Christ. + + That the Lord would vouchsafe to shed abroad his love in our hearts by + the Holy Ghost; seal unto us, by the same Spirit of adoption, the full + assurance of our pardon and reconciliation; comfort all that mourn in + Zion, speak peace to the wounded and troubled spirit, and bind up the + broken-hearted: and as for secure and presumptuous sinners, that he would + open their eyes, convince their consciences, and turn them from darkness + unto light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they also may + receive forgiveness of sin, and an inheritance among them that are + sanctified by faith in Christ Jesus. + + With remission of sins through the blood of Christ, to pray for + sanctification by his Spirit; the mortification of sin dwelling in and + many times tyrannizing over us; the quickening of our dead spirits with + the life of God in Christ; grace to fit and enable us for all duties of + conversation and callings towards God and men; strength against + temptations; the sanctified use of blessings and crosses; and + perseverance in faith and obedience unto the end. + + To pray for the propagation of the gospel and kingdom of Christ to all + nations; for the conversion of the Jews, the fulness of the Gentiles, the + fall of Antichrist, and the hastening of the second coming of our Lord; + for the deliverance of the distressed churches abroad from the tyranny of + the antichristian faction, and from the cruel oppressions and blasphemies + of the Turk; for the blessing of God upon the reformed churches, + especially upon the churches and kingdoms of Scotland, England, and + Ireland, now more strictly and religiously united in the Solemn National + League and Covenant; and for our plantations in the remote parts of the + world: more particularly for that church and kingdom whereof we are + members, that therein God would establish peace and truth , the purity of + all his ordinances, and the power of godliness; prevent and remove + heresy, schism, profaneness, superstition, security, and unfruitfulness + under the means of grace; heal all our rents and divisions, and preserve + us from breach of our Solemn Covenant. + + To pray for all in authority, especially for the King's Majesty; that God + would make him rich in blessings, both in his person and government; + establish his throne in religion and righteousness, save him from evil + counsel, and make him a blessed and glorious instrument for the + conservation and propagation of the gospel, for the encouragement and + protection of them that do well, the terror of all that do evil, and the + great good of the whole church, and of all his kingdoms; for the + conversion of the Queen, the religious education of the Prince, and the + rest of the royal seed; for the comforting of the afflicted Queen of + Bohemia, sister to our Sovereign; and for the restitution and + establishment of the illustrious Prince Charles, Elector Palatine of the + Rhine, to all his dominions and dignities; for a blessing upon the High + Court of Parliament, (when sitting in any of these kingdoms + respectively,) the nobility, the subordinate judges and magistrates, the + gentry, and all the commonality; for all pastors and teachers, that God + would fill them with his Spirit, make them exemplarily holy, sober, just, + peaceable, and gracious in their lives; sound, faithful, and powerful in + their ministry; and follow all their labours with abundance of success + and blessing; and give unto all his people pastors according to his own + heart; for the universities, and all schools and religious seminaries of + church and commonwealth, that they may flourish more and more in learning + and piety; for the particular city or congregation, that God would pour + out a blessing upon the ministry of the word, sacraments, and discipline, + upon the civil government, and all the several families and persons + therein; for mercy to the afflicted under any inward or outward distress; + for seasonable weather, and fruitful seasons, as the time may require; + for averting the judgments that we either feel or fear, or are liable + unto as famine, pestilence, the sword, and such like. + + And, with confidence of his mercy to his whole church, and the acceptance + of our persons, through the merits and mediation of our High Priest, the + Lord Jesus, to profess that it is the desire of our souls to have + fellowship with God in the reverend and conscionable use of his holy + ordinances; and, to that purpose, to pray earnestly for his grace and + effectual assistance to the sanctification of his holy sabbath, the + Lord's day, in all the duties thereof, publick and private, both to + ourselves, and to all other congregations of his people, according to the + riches and excellency of the gospel, this day celebrated and enjoyed. + + And because we have been unprofitable hearers in times past, and now + cannot of ourselves receive, as we should, the deep things of God, the + mysteries of Jesus Christ, which require a spiritual discerning; to pray, + that the Lord, who teacheth to profit, would graciously please to pour + out the Spirit of grace, together with the outward means thereof, causing + us to attain such a measure of the excellency of the knowledge of Christ + Jesus our Lord, and, in him, of the things which belong to our peace, + that we may account all things but as dross in comparison of him; and + that we, tasting the first-fruits of the glory that is to be revealed, + may long for a more full and perfect communion with him, that where he + is, we may be also, and enjoy the fulness of those joys and pleasures + which are at his right hand for evermore. + + More particularly, that God would in a special manner furnish his servant + (now called to dispense the bread of life unto his household) with + wisdom, fidelity, zeal, and utterance, that he may divide the word of God + aright, to every one his portion, in evidence and demonstration of the + Spirit and power; and that the Lord would circumcise the ears and hearts + of the hearers, to hear, love, and receive with meekness the ingrafted + word, which is able to save their souls; make them as good ground to + receive in the good seed of the word, and strengthen them against the + temptations of Satan, the cares of the world, the hardness of their own + hearts, and whatsoever else may hinder their profitable and saving + hearing; that so Christ may be so formed in them, and live in them, that + all their thoughts may be brought into captivity to the obedience of + Christ, and their hearts established in every good word and work for + ever. + + We judge this to be a convenient order, in the ordinary public prayer; + yet so, as the minister may defer (as in prudence he shall think meet) + some part of these petitions till after his sermon, or offer up to God + some of the thanksgivings hereafter appointed, in his prayer before his + sermon. + + - name: Of the Preaching of the Word + text: | + + Preaching of the word, being the power of God unto salvation, and one of + the greatest and most excellent works belonging to the ministry of the + gospel, should be so performed, that the workman need not be ashamed, but + may save himself, and those that hear him. + + It is presupposed, (according to the rules for ordination,) that the + minister of Christ is in some good measure gifted for so weighty a + service, by his skill in the original languages, and in such arts and + sciences as are handmaids unto divinity; by his knowledge in the whole + body of theology, but most of all in the holy scriptures, having his + senses and heart exercised in them above the common sort of believers; + and by the illumination of God's Spirit, and other gifts of edification, + which (together with reading and studying of the word) he ought still to + seek by prayer, and an humble heart, resolving to admit and receive any + truth not yet attained, whenever God shall make it known unto him. All + which he is to make use of, and improve, in his private preparations, + before he deliver in public what he hath provided. + + Ordinarily, the subject of his sermon is to be some text of scripture, + holding forth some principle or head of religion, or suitable to some + special occasion emergent; or he may go on in some chapter, psalm, or + book of the holy scripture, as he shall see fit. + + Let the introduction to his text be brief and perspicuous, drawn from the + text itself, or context, or some parallel place, or general sentence of + scripture. + + If the text be long, (as in histories or parables it sometimes must be,) + let him give a brief sum of it; if short, a paraphrase thereof, if need + be: in both, looking diligently to the scope of the text, and pointing at + the chief heads and grounds of doctrine which he is to raise from it. + + In analysing and dividing his text, he is to regard more the order of + matter than of words; and neither to burden the memory of the hearers in + the beginning with too many members of division, nor to trouble their + minds with obscure terms of art. + + In raising doctrines from the text, his care ought to be, *First,* That + the matter be the truth of God. *Secondly,* That it be a truth contained + in or grounded on that text, that the hearers may discern how God + teacheth it from thence. *Thirdly,* That he chiefly insist upon those + doctrines which are principally intended; and make most for the + edification of the hearers. + + The doctrine is to be expressed in plain terms; or, if any thing in it + need explication, it is to be opened, and the consequence also from the + text cleared. The parallel places of scripture, confirming the doctrine, + are rather to be plain and pertinent, than many, and (it need be) some + what insisted upon, and applied to the purpose in hand. + + The arguments or reasons are to be solid, and, as much as may be, + convincing. The illustrations, of what kind soever, ought to be full of + light, and such as may convey the truth into the hearer's heart with + spiritual delight. + + If any doubt obvious from scripture, reason, or prejudice of the hearers, + seem to arise, it is very requisite to remove it, by reconciling the + seeming differences, answering the reasons, and discovering and taking + away the causes of prejudice and mistake. Otherwise it is not fit to + detain the hearers with propounding or answering vain or wicked cavils, + which, as they are endless, so the propounding and answering of them doth + more hinder than promote edification. + + He is not to rest in general doctrine, although never so much cleared and + confirmed, but to bring it home to special use, by application to his + hearers: which albeit it prove a work of great difficulty to himself, + requiring much prudence, zeal, and meditation, and to the natural and + corrupt man will be very unpleasant; yet he is to endeavour to perform it + in such a manner, that his auditors may feel the word of God to be quick + and powerful, and a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart; + and that, if any unbeliever or ignorant person be present, he may have + the secrets of his heart made manifest, and give glory to God. + + In the use of instruction or information in the knowledge of some truth , + which is a consequence from his doctrine, he may (when convenient) + confirm it by a few firm arguments from the text in hand, and other + places of scripture, or from the nature of that common-place in divinity, + whereof that truth is a branch. + + In confutation of false doctrines, he is neither to raise an old heresy + from the grave, nor to mention a blasphemous opinion unnecessarily: but, + if the people be in danger of an error, he is to confute it soundly, and + endeavour to satisfy their judgments and consciences against all + objections. + + In exhorting to duties, he is, as he seeth cause, to teach also the means + that help to the performance of them. + + In dehortation, reprehension, and publick admonition, (which require + special wisdom,) let him, as there shall be cause, not only discover the + nature and greatness of the sin, with the misery attending it, but also + shew the danger his hearers are in to be overtaken and surprised by it, + together with the remedies and best way to avoid it. + + In applying comfort, whether general against all temptations, or + particular against some special troubles or terrors, he is carefully to + answer such objections as a troubled heart and afflicted spirit may + suggest to the contrary. It is also sometimes requisite to give some + notes of trial, (which is very profitable, especially when performed by + able and experienced ministers, with circumspection and prudence, and the + signs clearly grounded on the holy scripture,) whereby the hearers may be + able to examine themselves whether they have attained those graces, and + performed those duties, to which he exhorteth, or be guilty of the sin + reprehended, and in danger of the judgments threatened, or are such to + whom the consolations propounded do belong; that accordingly they may be + quickened and excited to duty, humbled for their wants and sins, affected + with their danger, and strengthened with comfort, as their condition, + upon examination, shall require. + + And, as he needeth not always to prosecute every doctrine which lies in + his text, so is he wisely to make choice of such uses, as, by his + residence and conversing with his flock, he findeth most needful and + seasonable; and, amongst these, such as may most draw their souls to + Christ, the fountain of light, holiness, and comfort. + + This method is not prescribed as necessary for every man, or upon every + text; but only recommended, as being found by experience to be very much + blessed of God, and very helpful for the people's understandings and + memories. + + But the servant of Christ, whatever his method be, is to perform his + whole ministry: + + 1. Painfully, not doing the work of the Lord negligently. + + 2. Plainly, that the meanest may understand; delivering the truth not in the + enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of + power, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect; abstaining + also from an unprofitable use of unknown tongues, strange phrases, and + cadences of sounds and words; sparingly citing sentences of ecclesiastical + or other human writers, ancient or modern, be they never so elegant. + + 3. Faithfully, looking at the honour of Christ, the conversion, edification, + and salvation of the people, not at his own gain or glory; keeping nothing + back which may promote those holy ends, giving to every one his own portion, + and bearing indifferent respect unto all, without neglecting the meanest, or + sparing the greatest, in their sins. + + 4. Wisely, framing all his doctrines, exhortations, and especially his + reproofs, in such a manner as may be most likely to prevail; shewing all due + respect to each man's person and place, and not mixing his own passion or + bitterness. + + 5. Gravely, as becometh the word of God; shunning all such gesture, voice, and + expressions, as may occasion the corruptions of men to despise him and his + ministry. + + 6. With loving affection, that the people may see all coming from his godly + zeal, and hearty desire to do them good. And, + + 7. As taught of God, and persuaded in his own heart, that all that he teacheth + is the truth of Christ; and walking before his flock, as an example to them + in it; earnestly, both in private and publick, recommending his labours to + the blessing of God, and watchfully looking to himself, and the flock + whereof the Lord hath made him overseer: So shall the doctrine of truth be + preserved uncorrupt, many souls converted and built up, and himself receive + manifold comforts of his labours even in this life, and afterward the crown + of glory laid up for him in the world to come. + + Where there are more ministers in a congregation than one, and they of + different gifts, each may more especially apply himself to doctrine or + exhortation, according to the gift wherein he most excelleth, and as they + shall agree between themselves. + + - name: Of Prayer after Sermon. + text: | + + The sermon being ended, the minister is "To give thanks for the great + love of God, in sending his Son Jesus Christ unto us; for the + communication of his Holy Spirit; for the light and liberty of the + glorious gospel, and the rich and heavenly blessings revealed therein; + as, namely, election, vocation, adoption, justification, sanctification, + and hope of glory; for the admirable goodness of God in freeing the land + from antichristian darkness and tyranny, and for all other national + deliverances; for the reformation of religion; for the covenant; and for + many temporal blessings. + + To pray for the continuance of the gospel, and all ordinances thereof, in + their purity, power, and liberty: to turn the chief and most useful heads + of the sermon into some few petitions; and to pray that it may abide in + the heart, and bring forth fruit. + + To pray for preparation for death and judgment, and a watching for the + coming of our Lord Jesus Christ: to entreat of God the forgiveness of the + iniquities of our holy things, and the acceptation of our spiritual + sacrifice, through the merit and mediation of our great High Priest and + Saviour the Lord Jesus Christ." + + And because the prayer which Christ taught his disciples is not only a + pattern of prayer, but itself a most comprehensive prayer, we recommend + it also to be used in the prayers of the church. And whereas, at the + administration of the sacraments, the holding publick fasts and days of + thanksgiving, and other special occasions, which may afford matter of + special petitions and thanksgivings, it is requisite to express somewhat + in our publick prayers, (as at this time it is our duty to pray for a + blessing upon the Assembly of Divines, the armies by sea and land, for + the defence of the King, Parliament, and Kingdom,) every minister is + herein to apply himself in his prayer, before or after sermon, to those + occasions: but, for the manner, he is left to his liberty, as God shall + direct and enable him in piety and wisdom to discharge his duty. + + The prayer ended, let a psalm be sung, if with conveniency it may be + done. After which (unless some other ordinance of Christ, that concerneth + the congregation at that time, be to follow) let the minister dismiss the + congregation with a solemn blessing. + + - name: Of the Administration of the Sacraments + text: | + + AND FIRST, OF BAPTISM. + + Baptism, as it is not unnecessarily to be delayed, so it is not to be + administered in any case by any private person, but by a minister of + Christ, called to be the steward of the mysteries of God. + + Nor is it to be administered in private places, or privately, but in the + place of publick worship, and in the face of the congregation, where the + people may most conveniently see and hear; and not in the places where + fonts, in the time of Popery, were unfitly and superstitiously placed. + + The child to be baptized after notice given to the minister the day + before, is to be presented by the father, or (in case of his necessary + absence) by some Christian friend in his place, professing his earnest + desire that the child may be baptized. + + Before baptism, the minister is to use some words of instruction, + touching the institution, nature, use, and ends of this sacrament, + shewing, + + "That it is instituted by our Lord Jesus Christ: That it is a seal of the + covenant of grace, of our ingrafting into Christ, and of our union with + him, of remission of sins, regeneration, adoption, and life eternal: That + the water, in baptism, representeth and signifieth both the blood of + Christ, which taketh away all guilt of sin, original and actual; and the + sanctifying virtue of the Spirit of Christ against the dominion of sin, + and the corruption of our sinful nature: That baptizing, or sprinkling + and washing with water, signifieth the cleansing from sin by the blood + and for the merit of Christ, together with the mortification of sin, and + rising from sin to newness of life, by virtue of the death and + resurrection of Christ: That the promise is made to believers and their + seed; and that the seed and posterity of the faithful, born within the + church, have, by their birth, interest in the covenant, and right to the + seal of it, and to the outward privileges of the church, under the + gospel, no less than the children of Abraham in the time of the Old + Testament; the covenant of grace, for substance, being the same; and the + grace of God, and the consolation of believers, more plentiful than + before: That the Son of God admitted little children into his presence, + embracing and blessing them, saying, *For of such is the kingdom of God:* + That children, by baptism, are solemnly received into the bosom of the + visible church, distinguished from the world, and them that are without, + and united with believers; and that all who are baptized in the name of + Christ, do renounce, and by their baptism are bound to fight against the + devil, the world, and the flesh: That they are Christians, and federally + holy before baptism, and therefore are they baptized: That the inward + grace and virtue of baptism is not tied to that very moment of time + wherein it is administered; and that the fruit and power thereof reacheth + to the whole course of our life; and that outward baptism is not so + necessary, that, through the want thereof, the infant is in danger of + damnation, or the parents guilty, if they do not contemn or neglect the + ordinance of Christ, when and where it may be had." + + In these or the like instructions, the minister is to use his own liberty + and godly wisdom, as the ignorance or errors in the doctrine of baptism, + and the edification of the people, shall require. + + He is also to admonish all that are present, + + "To look back to their baptism; to repent of their sins against their + covenant with God; to stir up their faith; to improve and make right use + of their baptism, and of the covenant sealed thereby betwixt God and + their souls." + + He is to exhort the parent, + + "To consider the great mercy of God to him and his child; to bring up the + child in the knowledge of the grounds of the Christian religion, "and in + the nurture and admonition of the Lord; and to let him know the danger of + God's wrath to himself and child, if he be negligent: requiring his + solemn promise for the performance of his duty." + + This being done, prayer is also to be joined with the word of + institution, for sanctifying the water to this spiritual use; and the + minister is to pray to this or the like effect: + + "That the Lord, who hath not left us as strangers without the covenant of + promise, but called us to the privileges of his ordinances, would + graciously vouchsafe to sanctify and bless his own ordinance of baptism + at this time: That he would join the inward baptism of his Spirit with + the outward baptism of water; make this baptism to the infant a seal of + adoption, remission of sin, regeneration, and eternal life, and all other + promises of the covenant of grace: That the child may be planted into the + likeness of the death and resurrection of Christ; and that, the body of + sin being destroyed in him, he may serve God in newness of life all his + days." + + Then the minister is to demand the name of the child; which being told + him, he is to say, (calling the child by his name,) + + *I baptize thee in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the + Holy Ghost.* + + As he pronounceth these words, he is to baptize the child with water: which, + for the manner of doing of it, is not only lawful but sufficient, and most + expedient to be, by pouring or sprinkling of the water on the face of the + child, without adding any other ceremony. + + This done, he is to give thanks and pray, to this or the like purpose: + + "Acknowledging with all thankfulness, that the Lord is true and faithful + in keeping covenant and mercy: That he is good and gracious, not only in + that he numbereth us among his saints, but is pleased also to bestow upon + our children this singular token and badge of his love in Christ: That, + in his truth and special providence, he daily bringeth some into the + bosom of his church, to be partakers of his inestimable benefits, + purchased by the blood of his dear Son, for the continuance and increase + of his church. + + And praying, That the Lord would still continue, and daily confirm more + and more this his unspeakable favour: That he would receive the infant + now baptized, and solemnly entered into the household of faith, into his + fatherly tuition and defence, and remember him with the favour that he + sheweth to his people; that, if he shall be taken out of this life in his + infancy, the Lord, who is rich in mercy, would be pleased to receive him + up into glory; and if he live, and attain the years of discretion, that + the Lord would so teach him by his word and Spirit, and make his baptism + effectual to him, and so uphold him by his divine power and grace, that + by faith he may prevail against the devil, the world, and the flesh, till + in the end he obtain a full and final victory, and so be kept by the + power of God through faith unto salvation, through Jesus Christ our + Lord." + + - name: Of the celebration of the communion, or sacrament of the Lord's supper. + text: | + + The communion, or supper of the Lord, is frequently to be celebrated; but + how often, may be considered and determined by the ministers, and other + church-governors of each congregation, as they shall find most convenient + for the comfort and edification of the people committed to their charge. + And, when it shall be administered, we judge it convenient to be done + after the morning sermon. + + The ignorant and the scandalous are not fit to receive the sacrament of + the Lord's Supper. + + Where this sacrament cannot with convenience be frequently administered, it is + requisite that publick warning be given the sabbath-day before the + administration thereof: and that either then, or on some day of that week, + something concerning that ordinance, and the due preparation thereunto, and + participation thereof, be taught; that, by the diligent use of all means + sanctified of God to that end, both in publick and private, all may come better + prepared to that heavenly feast. + + When the day is come for administration, the minister, having ended his + sermon and prayer, shall make a short exhortation: + + "Expressing the inestimable benefit we have by this sacrament, together + with the ends and use thereof: setting forth the great necessity of + having our comforts and strength renewed thereby in this our pilgrimage + and warfare: how necessary it is that we come unto it with knowledge, + faith, repentance, love, and with hungering and thirsting souls after + Christ and his benefits: how great the danger to eat and drink + unworthily. + + Next, he is, in the name of Christ, on the one part, to warn all such as + are ignorant, scandalous, profane, or that live in any sin or offence + against their knowledge or conscience, that they presume not to come to + that holy table; shewing them, that he that eateth and drinketh + unworthily, eateth and drinketh judgment unto himself: and, on the other + part, he is in an especial manner to invite and encourage all that labour + under the sense of the burden of their sins, and fear of wrath, and + desire to reach out unto a greater progress in grace than yet they can + attain unto, to come to the Lord's table; assuring them, in the same + name, of ease, refreshing, and strength to their weak and wearied souls." + + After this exhortation, warning, and invitation, the table being before + decently covered, and so conveniently placed, that the communicants may + orderly sit about it, or at it, the minister is to begin the action with + sanctifying and blessing the elements of bread and wine set before him, + (the bread in comely and convenient vessels, so prepared, that, being + broken by him, and given, it may be distributed amongst the communicants; + the wine also in large cups,) having first, in a few words, shewed that + those elements, otherwise common, are now set apart and sanctified to + this holy use, by the word of institution and prayer. + + Let the words of institution be read out of the Evangelists, or out of + the first Epistle of the Apostle Paul to the Corinthians, Chap. 11:23. *I + have received of the Lord, &c.* to the 27th Verse, which the minister + may, when he seeth requisite, explain and apply. + + Let the prayer, thanksgiving, or blessing of the bread and wine, be to this + effect: + + "With humble and hearty acknowledgment of the greatness of our misery, + from which neither .i.man; nor angel was able to deliver us, and of our + great unworthiness of the least of all God's mercies; to give thanks to + God for all his benefits, and especially for that great benefit of our + redemption, the love of God the Father, the sufferings and merits of the + Lord Jesus Christ the Son of God, by which we are delivered; and for all + means of grace, the word and sacraments; and for this sacrament in + particular, by which Christ, and all his benefits, are applied and sealed + up unto us, which, notwithstanding the denial of them unto others, are in + great mercy continued unto us, after so much and long abuse of them all. + + To profess that there is no other name under heaven by which we can be + saved, but the name of Jesus Christ, by whom alone we receive liberty and + life, have access to the throne of grace, are admitted to eat and drink + at his own table, and are sealed up by his Spirit to an assurance of + happiness and everlasting life. + + Earnestly to pray to God, the Father of all mercies, and God of all + consolation, to vouchsafe his gracious presence, and the effectual + working of his Spirit in us; and so to sanctify these elements both of + bread and wine, and to bless his own ordinance, that we may receive by + faith the body and blood of Jesus Christ, crucified for us, and so to + feed upon him, that he may be one with us, and we one with him; that he + may live in us, and we in him, and to him who hath loved us, and given + himself for us." + + All which he is to endeavour to perform with suitable affections, + answerable to such an holy action, and to stir up the like in the people. + + The elements being now sanctified by the word and prayer, the minister, + being at the table, is to take the bread in his hand, and say, in these + expressions, (or other the like, used by Christ or his apostle upon this + occasion:) + + "According to the holy institution, command, and example of our blessed + Saviour Jesus Christ, I take this bread, and, having given thanks, break + it, and give it unto you; (there the minister, who is also himself to + communicate, is to break the bread, and give it to the communicants;) + "*Take ye, eat ye; this is the body of Christ which is broken for you: do + this in remembrance of him."* + + In like manner the minister is to take the cup, and say, in these + expressions, (or other the like, used by Christ or the apostle upon the + same occasion:) + + "According to the institution, command, and example of our Lord Jesus + Christ, I take this cup, and give it unto you; (here he giveth it to the + communicants;) *This cup is the new testament in the blood of Christ, + which is shed for the remission of the sins of many: drink ye all of + it.*" + + After all have communicated, the minister may, in a few words, put them + in mind, + + "Of the grace of God in Jesus Christ, held forth in this sacrament; and + exhort them to walk worthy of it." + + The minister is to give solemn thanks to God, + + "For his rich mercy, and invaluable goodness, vouchsafed to them in that + sacrament; and to entreat for pardon for the defects of the whole + service, and for the gracious assistance of his good Spirit, whereby they + may be enabled to walk in the strength of that grace, as becometh those + who have received so great pledges of salvation." + + The collection for the poor is so to be ordered, that no part of the + publick worship be thereby hindered. + + - name: Of the Sanctification of the Lord's Day + text: | + + The Lord's day ought to be so remembered before-hand, as that all worldly + business of our ordinary callings may be so ordered, and so timely and + seasonably laid aside, as they may not be impediments to the due + sanctifying of the day when it comes. + + The whole day is to be celebrated as holy to the Lord, both in publick + and private, as being the Christian sabbath. To which end, it is + requisite, that there be a holy cessation or resting all that day from + all unnecessary labours; and an abstaining, not only from all sports and + pastimes, but also from all worldly words and thoughts. + + That the diet on that day be so ordered, as that neither servants be + unnecessarily detained from the publick worship of God, nor any other + person hindered from the sanctifying that day. That there be private + preparations of every person and family, by prayer for themselves, and + for God's assistance of the minister, and for a blessing upon his + ministry; and by such other holy exercises, as may further dispose them + to a more comfortable communion with God in his public ordinances. + + That all the people meet so timely for publick worship, that the whole + congregation may be present at the beginning, and with one heart solemnly + join together in all parts of the publick worship, and not depart till + after the blessing. + + That what time is vacant, between or after the solemn meetings of the + congregation in publick, be spent in reading, meditation, repetition of + sermons; especially by calling their families to an account of what they + have heard, and catechising of them, holy conferences, prayer for a + blessing upon the publick ordinances, singing of psalms, visiting the + sick, relieving the poor, and such like duties of piety, charity, and + mercy, accounting the sabbath a delight. + + - name: The Solemnization of Marriage. + text: | + + Although marriage be no sacrament, nor peculiar to the church of God, but + common to mankind, and of publick interest in every commonwealth; yet, + because such as marry are to marry in the Lord, and have special need of + instruction, direction, and exhortation, from the word of God, at their + entering into such a new condition, and of the blessing of God upon them + therein, we judge it expedient that marriage be solemnized by a lawful + minister of the word, that he may accordingly counsel them, and pray for + a blessing upon them. + + Marriage is to be betwixt one man and one woman only; and they such as + are not within the degrees of consanguinity or affinity prohibited by the + word of God; and the parties are to be of years of discretion, fit to + make their own choice, or, upon good grounds, to give their mutual + consent. + + Before the solemnizing of marriage between any persons, the purpose of + marriage shall be published by the minister three several sabbath-days, + in the congregation, at the place or places of their most usual and + constant abode, respectively. And of this publication the minister who is + to join them in marriage shall have sufficient testimony, before he + proceed to solemnize the marriage. + + Before that publication of such their purpose, (if the parties be under + age,) the consent of the parents, or others under whose power they are, + (in case the parents be dead,) is to be made known to the church officers + of that congregation, to be recorded. + + The like is to be observed in the proceedings of all others, although of + age, whose parents are living, for their first marriage. + + And, in after marriages of either of those parties, they shall be + exhorted not to contract marriage without first acquainting their parents + with it, (if with conveniency it may be done,) endeavouring to obtain + their consent. + + Parents ought not to force their children to marry without their free + consent, nor deny their own consent without just cause. + + After the purpose or contract of marriage hath been thus published, the + marriage is not to be long deferred. Therefore the minister, having had + convenient warning, and nothing being objected to hinder it, is publickly + to solemnize it in the place appointed by authority for publick worship, + before a competent number of credible witnesses, at some convenient hour + of the day, at any time of the year, except on a day of publick + humiliation. And we advise that it be not on the Lord's day. + + And because all relations are sanctified by the word and prayer, the + minister is to pray for a blessing upon them, to this effect: + + "Acknowledging our sins, whereby we have made ourselves less than the + least of all the mercies of God, and provoked him to embitter all our + comforts; earnestly, in the name of Christ, to entreat the Lord (whose + presence and favour is the happiness of every condition, and sweetens + every relation) to be their portion, and to own and accept them in + Christ, who are now to be joined in the honourable estate of marriage, + the covenant of their God: and that, as he hath brought them together by + his providence, he would sanctify them by his Spirit, giving them a new + frame of heart fit for their new estate; enriching them with all graces + whereby they may perform the duties, enjoy the comforts, undergo the + cares, and resist the temptations which accompany that condition, as + becometh Christians." + + The prayer being ended, it is convenient that the minister do briefly + declare unto them, out of the scripture, + + "The institution, use, and ends of marriage, with the conjugal duties, + which, in all faithfulness, they are to perform each to other; exhorting + them to study the holy word of God, that they may learn to live by faith, + and to be content in the midst of all marriage cares and troubles, + sanctifying God's name, in a thankful, sober, and holy use of all + conjugal comforts; praying much with and for one another; watching over + and provoking each other to love and good works; and to live together as + the heirs of the grace of life." + + After solemn charging of the persons to be married, before the great God, + who searcheth all hearts, and to whom they must give a strict account at + the last day, that if either of them know any cause, by precontract or + otherwise, why they may not lawfully proceed to marriage, that they now + discover it; the minister (if no impediment be acknowledged) shall cause + first the man to take the woman by the right hand, saying these words: + + *I* N. *do take thee* N. *to be my married wife, and do, in the presence + of God, and before this congregation, promise and covenant to be a loving + and faithful husband unto thee, until God shall separate us by death.* + + Then the woman shall take the man by the right hand, and say these words: + + *I* N. *do take thee* N. *to be my married husband, and I do, in the + presence of God, and before this congregation, promise and covenant to be + a loving, faithful, and obedient wife unto thee, until God shall separate + us by death.* + + Then, without any further ceremony, the minister shall, in the face of + the congregation, pronounce them to be husband and wife, according to + God's ordinance; and so conclude the action with prayer to this effect: + + "That the Lord would be pleased to accompany his own ordinance with his + blessing, beseeching him to enrich the persons now married, as with other + pledges of his love, so particularly with the comforts and fruits of + marriage, to the praise of his abundant mercy, in and through Christ + Jesus." + + A register is to be carefully kept, wherein the names of the parties so + married, with the time of their marriage, are forthwith to be fairly + recorded in a book provided for that purpose, for the perusal of all whom + it may concern. + + - name: Concerning Visitation of the Sick. + text: | + + It is the duty of the minister not only to teach the people committed to + his charge in publick, but privately; and particularly to admonish, + exhort, reprove, and comfort them, upon all seasonable occasions, so far + as his time, strength, and personal safety will permit. + + He is to admonish them, in time of health, to prepare for death; and, for + that purpose, they are often to confer with their minister about the + estate of their souls; and, in times of sickness, to desire his advice + and help, timely and seasonably, before their strength and understanding + fail them. + + Times of sickness and affliction are special opportunities put into his hand by + God to minister a word in season to weary souls: because then the consciences + of men are or should be more awakened to bethink themselves of their spiritual + estate for eternity; and Satan also takes advantage then to load them more with + sore and heavy temptations: therefore the minister, being sent for, and + repairing to the sick, is to apply himself, with all tenderness and love, to + administer some spiritual good to his soul, to this effect. + + He may, from the consideration of the present sickness, instruct him out + of scripture, that diseases come not by chance, or by distempers of body + only, but by the wise and orderly guidance of the good hand of God to + every particular person smitten by them. And that, whether it be laid + upon him out of displeasure for sin, for his correction and amendment, or + for trial and exercise of his graces, or for other special and excellent + ends, all his sufferings shall turn to his profit, and work together for + his good, if he sincerely labour to make a sanctified use of God's + visitation, neither despising his chastening, nor waxing weary of his + correction. + + If he suspect him of ignorance, he shall examine him in the principles of + religion, especially touching repentance and faith; and, as he seeth + cause, instruct him in the nature, use, excellency, and necessity of + those graces; as also touching the covenant of grace; and Christ the Son + of God, the Mediator of it; and concerning remission of sins by faith in + him. + + He shall exhort the sick person to examine himself, to search and try his + former ways, and his estate towards God. + + And if the sick person shall declare any scruple, doubt, or temptation + that are upon him, instructions and resolutions shall be given to satisfy + and settle him. + + If it appear that he hath not a due sense of his sins, endeavours ought + to be used to convince him of his sins, of the guilt and desert of them; + of the filth and pollution which the soul contracts by them; and of the + curse of the law, and wrath of God, due to them; that he may be truly + affected with and humbled for them: and withal make known the danger of + deferring repentance, and of neglecting salvation at any time offered; to + awaken his conscience, and rouse him up out of a stupid and secure + condition, to apprehend the justice and wrath of God, before whom none + can stand, but he that, lost in himself, layeth hold upon Christ by + faith. + + If he hath endeavoured to walk in the ways of holiness, and to serve God + in uprightness, although not without many failings and infirmities; or, + if his spirit be broken with the sense of sin, or cast down through want + of the sense of God's favour; then it will be fit to raise him up, by + setting before him the freeness and fulness of God's grace, the + sufficiency of righteousness in Christ, the gracious offers in the + gospel, that all who repent, and believe with all their heart in God's + mercy through Christ, renouncing their own righteousness, shall have life + and salvation in him. It may be also useful to shew him, that death hath + in it no spiritual evil to be feared by those that are in Christ, because + sin, the sting of death, is taken away by Christ, who hath delivered all + that are his from the bondage of the fear of death, triumphed over the + grave, given us victory, is himself entered into glory to prepare a place + for his people: so that neither life nor death shall be able to separate + them from God's love in Christ, in whom such are sure, though now they + must be laid in the dust, to obtain a joyful and glorious resurrection to + eternal life. + + Advice also may be given, as to beware of an ill-grounded persuasion on + mercy, or on the goodness of his condition for heaven, so to disclaim all + merit in himself, and to cast himself wholly upon God for mercy, in the + sole merits and mediation of Jesus Christ, who hath engaged himself never + to cast off them who in truth and sincerity come unto him. Care also must + be taken, that the sick person be not cast down into despair, by such a + severe representation of the wrath of God due to him for his sins, as is + not mollified by a sensible propounding of Christ and his merit for a + door of hope to every penitent believer. + + When the sick person is best composed, may be least disturbed, and other + necessary offices about him least hindered, the minister, if desired, + shall pray with him, and for him, to this effect: + + "Confessing and bewailing of sin original and actual; the miserable + condition of all by nature, as being children of wrath, and under the + curse; acknowledging that all diseases, sicknesses, death, and hell + itself, are the proper issues and effects thereof; imploring God's mercy + for the sick person, through the blood of Christ; beseeching that God + would open his eyes, discover unto him his sins, cause him to see himself + lost in himself, make known to him the cause why God smiteth him, reveal + Jesus Christ to his soul for righteousness and life, give unto him his + Holy Spirit, to create and strengthen faith to lay hold upon Christ, to + work in him comfortable evidences of his love, to arm him against + temptations, to take off his heart from the world, to sanctify his + present visitation, to furnish him with patience and strength to bear it, + and to give him perseverance in faith to the end. + + That, if God shall please to add to his days, he would vouchsafe to bless + and sanctify all means of his recovery; to remove the disease, renew his + strength, and enable him to walk worthy of God, by a faithful + remembrance, and diligent observing of such vows and promises of holiness + and obedience, as men are apt to make in times of sickness, that he may + glorify God in the remaining part of his life. + + And, if God have determined to finish his days by the present visitation, + he may find such evidence of the pardon of all his sins, of his interest + in Christ, and eternal life by Christ, as may cause his inward man to be + renewed, while his outward man decayeth; that he may behold death without + fear, cast himself wholly upon Christ without doubting, desire to be + dissolved and to be with Christ, and so receive the end of his faith, the + salvation of his soul, through the only merits and intercession of the + Lord Jesus Christ, our alone Saviour and all-sufficient Redeemer." + + The minister shall admonish him also (as there shall be cause) to set his + house in order, thereby to prevent inconveniences; to take care for + payment of his debts, and to make restitution or satisfaction where he + hath done any wrong; to be reconciled to those with whom he hath been at + variance, and fully to forgive all men their trespasses against him, as + he expects forgiveness at the hand of God. + + Lastly, The minister may improve the present occasion to exhort those + about the sick person to consider their own mortality, to return to the + Lord, and make peace with him; in health to prepare for sickness, death, + and judgment; and all the days of their appointed time so to wait until + their change come, that when Christ, who is our life, shall appear, they + may appear with him in glory. + + - name: Concerning Burial of the Dead. + text: | + + When any person departeth this life, let the dead body, upon the day of + burial, be decently attended from the house to the place appointed for + publick burial, and there immediately interred, without any ceremony. + + And because the custom of kneeling down, and praying by or towards the + dead corpse, and other such usages, in the place where it lies before it + be carried to burial, are superstitious; and for that praying, reading, + and singing, both in going to and at the grave, have been grossly abused, + are no way beneficial to the dead, and have proved many ways hurtful to + the living; therefore let all such things be laid aside. + + Howbeit, we judge it very convenient, that the Christian friends, which + accompany the dead body to the place appointed for publick burial, do + apply themselves to meditations and conferences suitable to the occasion + and that the minister, as upon other occasions, so at this time, if he be + present, may put them in remembrance of their duty. + + That this shall not extend to deny any civil respects or deferences at + the burial, suitable to the rank and condition of the party deceased, + while he was living. + + - name: Concerning Publick Solemn Fasting. + text: | + + When some great and notable judgments are either inflicted upon a people, + or apparently imminent, or by some extraordinary provocations notoriously + deserved; as also when some special blessing is to be sought and + obtained, publick solemn fasting (which is to continue the whole day) is + a duty that God expecteth from that nation or people. + + A religious fast requires total abstinence, not only from all food, + (unless bodily weakness do manifestly disable from holding out till the + fast be ended, in which case somewhat may be taken, yet very sparingly, + to support nature, when ready to faint,) but also from all worldly + labour, discourses, and thoughts, and from all bodily delights, and such + like, (although at other times lawful,) rich apparel, ornaments, and such + like, during the fast; and much more from whatever is in the nature or + use scandalous and offensive, as gaudish attire, lascivious habits and + gestures, and other vanities of either sex; which .i.we; recommend to all + ministers, in their places, diligently and zealously to reprove, as at + other times, so especially at a fast, without respect of persons, as + there shall be occasion. + + Before the publick meeting, each family and person apart are privately to + use all religious care to prepare their hearts to such a solemn work, and + to be early at the congregation. + + So large a portion of the day as conveniently may be, is to be spent in publick + reading and preaching of the word, with singing of psalms, fit to quicken + affections suitable to such a duty: but especially in prayer, to this or the + like effect: + + "Giving glory to the great Majesty of God, the Creator, Preserver, and + supreme Ruler of all the world, the better to affect us thereby with an + holy reverence and awe of him; acknowledging his manifold, great, and + tender mercies, especially to the church and nation, the more effectually + to soften and abase our hearts before him; humbly confessing of sins of + all sorts, with their several aggravations; justifying God's righteous + judgments, as being far less than our sins do deserve; yet humbly and + earnestly imploring his mercy and grace for ourselves, the church and + nation, for our king, and all in authority, and for all others for whom + we are bound to pray, (according as the present exigent requireth,) with + more special importunity and enlargement than at other times; applying by + faith the promises and goodness of God for pardon, help, and deliverance + from the evils felt, feared, or deserved; and for obtaining the blessings + which we need and expect; together with a giving up of ourselves wholly + and for ever unto the Lord." + + In all these, the ministers, who are the mouths of the people unto God, + ought so to speak from their hearts, upon serious and thorough + premeditation of them, that both themselves and their people may be much + affected, and even melted thereby, especially with sorrow for their sins; + that it may be indeed a day of deep humiliation and afflicting of the + soul. + + Special choice is to be made of such scriptures to be read, and of such + tests for preaching, as may best work the hearts of the hearers to the + special business of the day, and most dispose them to humiliation and + repentance: insisting most on those particulars which each minister's + observation and experience tells him are most conducing to the + edification and reformation of that congregation to which he preacheth. + + Before the close of the publick duties, the minister is, in his own and + the people's name, to engage his and their hearts to be the Lord's, with + professed purpose and resolution to reform whatever is amiss among them, + and more particularly such sins as they have been more remarkably guilty + of; and to draw near unto God, and to walk more closely and faithfully + with him in new obedience, than ever before. + + He is also to admonish the people, with all importunity, that the work of + that day doth not end with the publick duties of it, but that they are so + to improve the remainder of the day, and of their whole life, in + reinforcing upon themselves and their families in private all those godly + affections and resolutions which they professed in publick, as that they + may be settled in their hearts for ever, and themselves may more sensibly + find that God hath smelt a sweet savour in Christ from their + performances, and is pacified towards them, by answers of grace, in + pardoning of sin, in removing of judgments, in averting or preventing of + plagues, and in conferring of blessings, suitable to the conditions and + prayers of his people, by Jesus Christ. + + Besides solemn and general fasts enjoined by authority, we judge that, at + other times, congregations may keep days of fasting, as divine providence + shall administer unto them special occasion; and also that families may + do the same, so it be not on days wherein the congregation to which they + do belong is to meet for fasting, or other publick duties of worship. + + - name: Concerning the Observation of Days of Publick Thanksgiving. + text: | + + When any such day is to be kept, let notice be given of it, and of the + occasion thereof, some convenient time before, that the people may the + better prepare themselves thereunto. + + The day being come, and the congregation (after private preparations) + being assembled, the minister is to begin with a word of exhortation, to + stir up the people to the duty for which they are met, and with a short + prayer for God's assistance and blessing, (as at other conventions for + publick worship,) according to the particular occasion of their meeting. + + Let him then make some pithy narration of the deliverance obtained, or + mercy received, or of whatever hath occasioned that assembling of the + congregation, that all may better understand it, or be minded of it, and + more affected with it. + + And, because singing of psalms is of all other the most proper ordinance + for expressing of joy and thanksgiving, let some pertinent psalm or + psalms be sung for that purpose, before or after the reading of some + portion of the word suitable to the present business. + + Then let the minister, who is to preach, proceed to further exhortation and + prayer before his sermon, with special reference to the present work: after + which, let him preach upon some text of Scripture pertinent to the occasion. + + The sermon ended, let him not only pray, as at other times after + preaching is directed, with remembrance of the necessities of the Church, + King, and State, (if before the sermon they were omitted,) but enlarge + himself in due and solemn thanksgiving for former mercies and + deliverances; but more especially for that which at the present calls + them together to give thanks: with humble petition for the continuance + and renewing of God's wonted mercies, as need shall be, and for + sanctifying grace to make a right use thereof. And so, having sung + another psalm, suitable to the mercy, let him dismiss the congregation + with a blessing, that they may have some convenient time for their repast + and refreshing. + + But the minister (before their dismission) is solemnly to admonish them + to beware of all excess and riot, tending to gluttony or drunkenness, and + much more of these sins themselves, in their eating and refreshing; and + to take care that their mirth and rejoicing be not carnal, but spiritual, + which may make God's praise to be glorious, and themselves humble and + sober; and that both their feeding and rejoicing may render them more + cheerful and enlarged, further to celebrate his praises in the midst of + the congregation, when they return unto it in the remaining part of that + day. + + When the congregation shall be again assembled, the like course in + praying, reading, preaching, singing of psalms, and offering up of more + praise and thanksgiving, that is before directed for the morning, is to + be renewed and continued, so far as the time will give leave. + + At one or both of the publick meetings that day, a collection is to be + made for the poor, (and in the like manner upon the day of publick + humiliation,) that their loins may bless us, and rejoice the more with + us. And the people are to be exhorted, at the end of the latter meeting, + to spend the residue of that day in holy duties, and testifications of + Christian love and charity one towards another, and of rejoicing more and + more in the Lord; as becometh those who make the joy of the Lord their + strength. + + - name: Of Singing of Psalms. + text: | + + It is the duty of Christians to praise God publickly, by singing of + psalms together in the congregation, and also privately in the family. + + In singing of psalms, the voice is to be tunably and gravely ordered; but + the chief care must be to sing with understanding, and with grace in the + heart, making melody unto the Lord. + + That the whole congregation may join herein, every one that can read is + to have a psalm book; and all others, not disabled by age or otherwise, + are to be exhorted to learn to read. But for the present, where many in + the congregation cannot read, it is convenient that the minister, or some + other fit person appointed by him and the other ruling officers, do read + the psalm, line by line, before the singing thereof. + + - name: AN APPENDIX, Touching Days and Places for Publick Worship. + text: | + + There is no day commanded in scripture to be kept holy under the gospel + but the Lord's day, which is the Christian Sabbath. + + Festival days, vulgarly called *Holy-days,* having no warrant in the word + of God, are not to be continued. + + Nevertheless, it is lawful and necessary, upon special emergent + occasions, to separate a day or days for publick fasting or thanksgiving, + as the several eminent and extraordinary dispensations of God's + providence shall administer cause and opportunity to his people. + + As no place is capable of any holiness, under pretence of whatsoever + dedication or consecration; so neither is it subject to such pollution by + any superstition formerly used, and now laid aside, as may render it + unlawful or inconvenient for Christians to meet together therein for the + publick worship of God. And therefore we hold it requisite, that the + places of publick assembling for worship among us should be continued and + employed to that use. +... diff --git a/data/westminster/epistle-to-the-reader.yaml b/data/westminster/epistle-to-the-reader.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..da27b74e537582d522bb69027afe9f422a162e7c --- /dev/null +++ b/data/westminster/epistle-to-the-reader.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,170 @@ +--- +name: Mr Thomas Manton's Epistle To The Reader +publication_year: 1646 +type: creed +markdown: true +text: | + + Christian Reader, + + I cannot suppose thee to be such a stranger in England as to be ignorant of + the general complaint concerning the decay of the power of godliness, and more + especially of the great corruption of youth. Wherever thou goest, thou wilt + hear men crying out of bad children and bad servants; whereas indeed the + source of the mischief must be sought a little higher: it is bad parents and + bad masters that make bad children and bad servants; and we cannot blame so + much their untowardness, as our own negligence in their education. + + The devil hath a great spite at the kingdom of Christ, and he knoweth no such + compendious way to crush it in the egg, as by the perversion of youth, and + supplanting family-duties. He striketh at all those duties which are publick + in the assemblies of the saints, but these are too well guarded by the solemn + injunctions and dying charge of Jesus Christ, as that he should ever hope + totally to subvert and undermine them; but at family-duties he striketh with + the more success, because the institution is not so solemn, and the practice + not so seriously and conscientiously regarded as it should be, and the + omission is not so liable to notice and publick censure. Religion was first + hatched in families, and there the devil seeketh to crush it; the families of + the Patriarchs were all the Churches God had in the world for the time: and + therefore. (I suppose,) when Cain went out from Adam’s family, he is said to + go out from the face of the Lord, Gen. 4:16. Now, the devil knoweth that this + is a blow at the root, and a ready way to prevent the succession of Churches: + if he can subvert families, other societies and communities will not long + flourish and subsist with any power and vigour; for there is the stock from + whence they are supplied both for the present and future. + + For the present: A family is the seminary of Church and State; and if children + be not well principled there, all miscarrieth: a fault in the first concoction + is not mended in the second; if youth be bred ill in the family, they prove ill + in Church and Commonwealth; there is the first making or marring, and the + presage of their future lives to be thence taken, Prov. 20:11. By family + discipline, officers are trained up for the Church, 1 Tim. 3:4, *One that ruleth + well his own house*, etc.; and there are men bred up in subjection and + obedience. It is noted, Acts 21:5, that the disciples brought Paul on his way + with their wives and children; their children probably are mentioned, to + intimate, that their parents would, by their own example and affectionate + farewell to Paul, breed them up in a way of reverence and respect to the pastors + of the Church. + + For the future: It is comfortable, certainly, to see a thriving nursery of young + plants, and to have hopes that God shall have a people to serve him when we are + dead and gone: the people of God comforted themselves in that, Ps. 102:28, *The + children of thy servants shall continue*, etc + + Upon all these considerations, how careful should ministers and parents be to + train up young ones whilst they are yet pliable, and, like wax, capable of any + form and impression, in the knowledge and fear of God; and betimes to instil + the principles of our most holy faith, as they are drawn into a short sum in + Catechisms, and so altogether laid in the view of conscience! Surely these + seeds of truth planted in the field of memory, if they work nothing else, will + at least be a great check and bridle to them and, as the casting in of cold + water doth stay the boiling of the pot, somewhat allay the fervours of + youthful lusts and passions. + + I had, upon entreaty, resolved to recommend to thee with the greatest + earnestness the work of catechising, and, as a meet help, the usefulness of + this book, as thus printed with the Scriptures at large: but meeting with a + private letter of a very learned and godly divine, wherein that work is + excellently done to my hand, I shall make bold to transcribe a part of it, and + offer it to publick view. + + The author having bewailed the great distractions, corruptions, and divisions + that are in the Church, he thus represents the cause and cure: + + > Among others, a principal cause of these mischiefs is the great and common + > neglect of the governors of families, in the discharge of that duty which they + > owe to God for the souls that are under their charge, especially in teaching + > them the doctrine of Christianity. Families are societies that must he + > sanctified to God as well as Churches; and the governors of them have as truly a + > charge of the souls that are therein, as pastors have of the Churches. But, + > alas, how little is this considered or regarded ! But while negligent ministers + > are (deservedly) cast out of their places, the negligent masters of families + > take themselves to be almost blameless. They offer their children to God in + > baptism, and there they promise to teach them the doctrine of the gospel, and + > bring them up in the nurture of the Lord; but they easily promise, and easily + > break it; and educate their children for the world and the flesh, although they + > have renounced these, and dedicated them to God. This covenant-breaking with + > God, and betraying the souls of their children to the devil. must lie heavy on + > them here or hereafter. They beget children, and keep families merely for the + > world and the flesh: but little consider what a charge is committed to them, and + > what it is to bring up a child for God, and govern a family as a sanctified + > society. + > + > + > O how sweetly and successfully would the work of God go on, if we would but all + > join together in our several places to promote it! Men need not then run without + > sending to be preachers; but they might find that part of the work that + > belongeth to them to be enough for them, and to be the best that they can be + > employed in. Especially women should be careful of this duty; because as they + > are most about their children, and have early and frequent opportunities to + > instruct them, so this is the principal service they can do to God in this + > world, being restrained from more publick work. And doubtless many an excellent + > magistrate hath been sent into the Commonwealth, and many an excellent pastor + > into the Church, and many a precious saint to heaven, through the happy + > preparations of a holy education, perhaps by a woman that thought herself + > useless and unserviceable to the Church. Would parents but begin betimes, and + > labour to affect the hearts of their children with the great matters of + > everlasting life, and to acquaint them with the substance of the doctrine of + > Christ, and, when they find in them the knowledge and love of Christ, would + > bring them then to the pastors of the Church to be tried, confirmed and admitted + > to the further privileges of the Church, what happy, well-ordered Churches might + > we have ! Then one pastor need not be put to do the work of two or three hundred + > or thousand governors of families, even to teach their children those principles + > which they should have taught them long before; nor should we be put to preach + > to so many miserable ignorant souls, that be not prepared by education to + > understand us, nor should we have need to shut out so many from holy communion + > upon the account of ignorance, that yet have not the grace to feel it and lament + > it, nor the wit and patience to wait in a learning state, till they are ready to + > be fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God. But now they + > come to us with aged self-conceitedness, being past children, and yet worse than + > children still; having the ignorance of children, but being overgrown the + > teachableness of children, and think themselves wise, yea wise enough to quarrel + > with the wisest of their teachers, because they have lived long enough to have + > been wise, and the evidence of their knowledge is their aged ignorance; and they + > are readier to flee in our faces for Church-privileges, than to learn of us, and + > obey our instructions, till they are prepared for them, that they may do them + > good, like snappish curs that will snap us by the fingers for their meat, and + > snatch it out of our hands; and not like children, that stay till we give it + > them. Parents have so used them to be unruly, that ministers have to deal but + > with too few but the unruly. And it is for want of this laying the foundation + > well at first, that professors themselves are so ignorant as most are, and that + > so many, especially of the younger sort, do swallow down almost any error that + > is offered them, and follow any sect of dividers that will entice them so it be + > but done with earnestness and plausibility. For, alas ! though by the grace of + > God their hearts may be changed in an hour, (whenever they understand but the + > essentials of the faith,) yet their understandings must have time and diligence + > to furnish them with such knowledge as must stablish them, and fortify them + > against deceits. Upon these, and many the like considerations. we should entreat + > all Christian families to take more pains in this necessary work, and to get + > better acquainted with the substance of Christianity. And, to that end, (taking + > along some moving treatises to awake the heart,) I know not what work should be + > fitter for their use, than that compiled by the Assembly at Westminster; a Synod + > of as godly, judicious divines, (notwithstanding all the bitter words which they + > have received from discontented and self-conceited men,) I verily think, as ever + > England saw. Though they had the unhappiness to be employed in calamitous times, + > when the noise of wars did stop men’s ears, and the licentiousness of wars did + > set every wanton tongue and pen at liberty to reproach them, and the prosecution + > and event of those wars did exasperate partial discontented men to dishonour + > themselves by seeking to dishonour them; I dare say, if in the days of old, when + > councils were in power and account, they had had but such a council of bishops, + > as this of presbyters was, the fame of it for learning and holiness, and all + > ministerial abilities, would, with very great honour, have been transmitted to + > posterity. + > + > + > I do therefore desire, that all masters of families would first study well this + > work themselves, and then teach it their children and servants, according to + > their several capacities. And, if they once understand these grounds of + > religion, they will be able to read other books more understandingly, and hear + > sermons more profitably, and confer more judiciously, and hold fast the doctrine + > of Christ more firmly, than ever you are like to do by any other course. First, + > let them read and learn the Shorter Catechism, and next the Larger and lastly, + > read the Confession of Faith. + + + Thus far he, whose name I shall conceal, (though the excellency of the matter + and present style, will easily discover him,) because I have published it + without his privily and consent, though, I hope, not against his liking and + approbation. I shall add no more, but that I am, + + Thy servant, in the Lord’s work, THOMAS MANTON. diff --git a/data/westminster/government.yaml b/data/westminster/government.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..88afa56aace39b38d75109c412879402dc619ed3 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/westminster/government.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,1088 @@ +--- +name: The Form of Presbyterial Church Government +publication_year: 1646 +type: document +markdown: true +show_toc: true +recommended_reading: + - wcf-banner +chapters: + - name: '' + text: | + Assembly at Edinburgh, February 10, 1645, Sess. 16. + + Act of the general assembly of the Kirk of Scotland, approving the + Propositions concerning Kirk-government, and Ordination of Ministers. + + The General Assembly being most desirous and solicitous, not only of the + establishment and preservation of the Form of Kirk-government in this + kingdom, according to the word of God, books of Discipline, acts of + General Assemblies, and National Covenant, but also of an uniformity in + Kirk-government betwixt these kingdoms, now more straitly and strongly + unite by the late Solemn League and Covenant; and considering, that as in + former time there did, so hereafter there may arise, through the nearness + of contagion, manifold, mischief to this kirk from a corrupt form of + government in the kirk of England: likeas the precious opportunity of + bringing the kirks of Christ in all the three kingdoms to an uniformity in + Kirk-government being the happiness of the present times above the former; + which may also, by the blessing of God, prove an effectual mean, and a + good foundation to prepare for a safe and well-grounded pacification, by + removing the cause from which the present pressures and bloody wars did + originally proceed: and now the Assembly having thrice read, and + diligently examined, the propositions (hereunto annexed) concerning the + officers, assemblies, and government of the kirk, and concerning the + ordination of ministers, brought unto us, as the results of the long and + learned debates of the Assembly of Divines sitting at Westminster, and of + the treaty of uniformity with the Commissioners of this kirk there + residing; after mature deliberation,, and after timeous calling upon and + warning of all, who have any exceptions against same, to make them known, + that they might receive satisfaction; doth agree to and approve the + propositions afore-mentioned, touching, touching Kirk-government and + Ordination; and doth hereby authorized the Commissioners of this Assembly, + who are to meet at Edinburgh, to agree and to conclude in the name of this + Assembly, an uniformity betwixt the kirks in both kingdoms, in the + afore-mentioned particulars, so soon as the same shall be ratified, + without any substantial alteration, by an ordinance of the honourable + Houses of the Parliament of England; which ratification shall be timely + intimate and made known by the Commissioners of this kirk residing at + London. Provided always, That this act be no ways prejudicial to the + further discussion and examination of that article which hold forth, That + the doctor or teacher hath power of the administration of the sacraments, + as well as the pastor; as also of the distinct rights and interests of + presbyteries and people in the calling of ministers; but that it shall be + free to debate and discuss these points, as God shall be pleased to give + further light. + + Jesus Christ, upon whose shoulders the government is, whose name is called + Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince + of Peace;[a] of the increase of whose government and peace there shall be + no end; who sits upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order + it, and to establish it with judgment and justice, from henceforth, even + for ever; having all power given unto him in heaven and in earth by the + Father, who raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand, + far above all principalities and power, and might, and dominion, and every + name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to + come, and put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over + all things to the church, which is his body, the fulness of him that + filleth all in all: he being ascended up far above all heavens, that he + might fill all things, received gifts for his church, and gave officers + necessary for the edification of his church, and perfecting of his + saints.[b] + + verses: + a: + - Isa.9.6-Isa.9.7 + b: + - Matt.28.18-Matt.28.20 + - Eph.1.20-Eph.1.23 + - Eph.4.8 + - Eph.4.11 + - Ps.68.18 + + - name: Of the church + text: | + + There is one general church visible, held forth in the New Testament.[a] + + The ministry, oracles, and ordinances of the New Testament, are given by + Jesus Christ to the general church visible, for the gathering and + perfecting of it in this life, until his second coming.[b] + + Particular visible churches, members of the general church, are also held + forth in the New Testament.[c] + + Particular churches in the primitive times were made up of visible saints, + *viz.* of such as, being of age, professed faith in Christ, and obedience + unto Christ, according to the rules of faith and life taught by Christ and + his apostles; and of their children.[d] + + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.12.12-1Cor.12.13 + - 1Cor.12.28 + b: + - 1Cor.12.28 + - Eph.4.4-Eph.4.5 + c: + - Gal.1.21-Gal.1.22 + - Rev.1.4 + - Rev.1.20 + - Rev.2.1 + d: + - Acts.2.38 + - Acts.2.41 + - Acts.2.47 + - Acts.5.14 + - 1Cor.1.2 + - 2Cor.9.13 + - Acts.2.39 + - 1Cor.7.14 + - Rom.11.16 + - Mark.10.14 + - Matt.19.13-Matt.19.14 + - Luke.18.15-Luke.18.16 + + - name: Of the Officers of the Church + text: | + + The officers which Christ hath appointed for the edification of his + church, and the perfecting of the saints, are, some extraordinary, as + apostles, evangelists, and prophets, which are ceased. + + Others ordinary and perpetual, as pastors, teachers, and other + church-governors, and deacons. verses: + + - name: Pastors + text: | + + The pastor is an ordinary and perpetual officer in the church,[a] + prophesying of the time of the gospel.[b] + + First, it belongs to his office, + + To pray for and with his flock, as the mouth of the people unto God,[c] + where preaching and prayer are joined as several parts of the same + office.[d] The office of the elder (that is, the pastor) is to pray for + the sick, even in private, to which a blessing is especially promised; + much more therefore ought he to perform this in the publick execution of + his office, as a part thereof.[e] + + To read the Scriptures publickly; for the proof of which, + + 1. That the priests and Levites in the Jewish church were trusted with the + publick reading of the word is proved.[f] + + 2. That the ministers of the gospel have as ample a charge and commission + to dispense the word, as well as other ordinances, as the priests and + Levites had under the law, proved, where our Saviour entitleth the + officers of the New Testament, whom he will send forth, by the same names + of the teachers of the Old.[g] + + Which propositions prove, that therefore (the duty being of a moral + nature) it followeth by just consequence, that the publick reading of the + scriptures belongeth to the pastor's office. + + To feed the flock, by preaching of the word, according to which he is to + teach, convince, reprove, exhort, and comfort.[h] + + To catechise, which is a plain laying down the first principles of the + oracles of God,[i] or of the doctrine of Christ, and is a part of + preaching. + + To dispense other divine mysteries.[j] + + To administer the sacraments.[k] + + To bless the people from God[l], where, under the names of Priests and + Levites to be continued under the gospel, are meant evangelical pastors, + who therefore are by office to bless the people.[m] + + To take care of the poor.[n] + + And he hath also a ruling power over the flock as a pastor.[o] + + verses: + a: + - Jer.3.15-Jer.3.17 + b: + - 1Pet.5.2-1Pet.5.4 + - Eph.4.11-Eph.4.13 + c: + - Acts.6.2-Acts.6.4 + - Acts.20.36 + d: + - Jas.5.14-Jas.5.15 + e: + - 1Cor.14.15-1Cor.14.16 + f: + - Deut.31.9-Deut.31.11 + - Neh.8.1-Neh.8.3 + - Neh.8.13 + g: + - Isa.66.21 + - Matt.23.34 + h: + - 1Tim.3.2 + - 2Tim.3.16-2Tim.3.17 + - Titus.1.9 + i: + - Heb.5.12 + j: + - 1Cor.4.1-1Cor.4.2 + k: + - Matt.28.19-Matt.28.20 + - Mark.16.15-Mark.16.16 + - 1Cor.11.23-1Cor.11.25 + - 1Cor.10.16 + l: + - Num.6.23-Num.6.26 + - Rev.1.4-Rev.1.5 + - Isa.66.21 + m: + - Deut.10.8 + - 2Cor.13.14 + - Eph.1.2 + n: + - Acts.11.30 + - Acts.4.34-Acts.4.37 + - Acts.6.2-Acts.6.4 + - 1Cor.16.1-1Cor.16.4 + - Gal.2.9-Gal.2.10 + o: + - 1Tim.5.17 + - Acts.20.17 + - Acts.20.28 + - 1Thess.5.12 + - Heb.13.7 + - Heb.13.17 + + - name: Teacher or Doctor + text: | + + The scripture doth hold out the name and title of teacher, as well as of + the pastor.[a] + + Who is also a minister of the word, as well as the pastor, and hath power + of administration of the sacraments. + + The Lord having given different gifts, and divers exercises according to + these gifts, in the ministry of the word;[b] though these different gifts + may meet in, and accordingly be exercised by, one and the same + minister;[c] yet, where be several ministers in the same congregation, + they may be designed to several employments, according to the different + gifts in which each of them doth most excel.[d] And he that doth more + excel in exposition of scripture, in teaching sound doctrine, and in + convincing gainsayers, than he doth in application, and is accordingly + employed therein, may be called a teacher, or doctor, (the places alleged + by the notation of the word do prove the proposition.) Nevertheless, where + is but one minister in a particular congregation, he is to perform, as far + as he is able, the whole work of the ministry.[e] + + A teacher, or doctor, is of most excellent use in schools and + universities; as of old in the schools of the prophets, and at Jerusalem, + where Gamaliel and others taught as doctors. + + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.12.28 + - Eph.4.11 + b: + - Rom.12.6-Rom.12.8 + - 1Cor.1 + - 1Cor.4-1Cor.7 + c: + - 1Cor.14.3 + - 2Tim.4.2 + - Titus.1.9 + d: + - 1Pet.4.10-1Pet.4.11 + e: + - 2Tim.4.2 + - Titus.1.9 + - 1Tim.6.2 + + - name: Other Church-Governors + text: | + + As there were in the Jewish church elders of the people joined with the + priests and Levites in the government of the church;[a] so Christ, who + hath instituted government, and governors ecclesiastical in the church, + hath furnished some in his church, beside the ministers of the word, with + gifts for government, and with commission to execute the same when called + thereunto, who are to join with the minister in the government of the + church.[b] Which officers reformed churches commonly call Elders. + + verses: + a: + - 2Chr.19.8-2Chr.19.10 + b: + - Rom.12.7-Rom.12.8 + - 1Cor.12.28 + + - name: Deacons + text: | + + The scripture doth hold out deacons as distinct officers in the church.[a] + + Whose office is perpetual.[b] To whose office it belongs not to preach the + word, or administer the sacraments, but to take special care in + distributing to the necessities of the poor.[c] + + verses: + a: + - Phil.1.1 + - 1Tim.3.8 + b: + - 1Tim.3.8-1Tim.3.15 + - Acts.6.1-Acts.6.4 + c: + - Acts.6.1-Acts.6.4 + + - name: Of Particular Congregations + text: | + + It is lawful and expedient that there be fixed congregations, that is, a + certain company of Christians to meet in one assembly ordinarily for + publick worship. When believers multiply to such a number, that they + cannot conveniently meet in one place, it is lawful and expedient that + they should be divided into distinct and fixed congregations, for the + better administration of such ordinances as belong unto them, and the + discharge of mutual duties.[a] + + The ordinary way of dividing Christians into distinct congregations, and + most expedient for edification, is by the respective bounds of their + dwellings. + + First, Because they who dwell together, being bound to all kind of moral + duties one to another, have the better opportunity thereby to discharge + them; which moral tie is perpetual; for Christ came not to destroy the + law, but to fulfil it.[b] + + Secondly, The communion of saints must be so ordered, as may stand with + the most convenient use of the ordinances, and discharge of moral duties, + without respect of persons.[c] + + Thirdly, The pastor and people must so nearly cohabit together, as that + they may mutually perform their duties each to other with most + conveniency. + + In this company some must be set apart to bear office. + + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.14.26 + - 1Cor.14.33 + - 1Cor.14.40 + b: + - Deut.15.7 + - Deut.15.11 + - Matt.22.39 + - Matt.5.17 + c: + - 1Cor.14.26 + - Heb.10.24-Heb.10.25 + - Jas.2.1-Jas.2.2 + + - name: Of the Officers of a particular Congregation + text: | + + For officers in a single congregation, there ought to be one at the least, + both to labour in the word and doctrine, and to rule.[a] + + It is also requisite that there should be others to join in government.[b] + + And likewise it is requisite that there be others to take special care for + the relief of the poor. [c] + + The number of each of which is to be proportioned according to the + condition of the congregation. + + These officers are to meet together at convenient and set times, for the + well ordering of the affairs of that congregation, each according to his + office. + + It is most expedient that, in these meetings, one whose office is to + labour in the word and doctrine, do moderate in their proceedings.[d] + + verses: + a: + - Prov.29.18 + - 1Tim.5.17 + - Heb.13.7 + b: + - 1Cor.12.28 + c: + - Acts.6.2-Acts.6.3 + d: + - 1Tim.5.17 + + - name: Of the Ordinances in a particular Congregation + text: | + + The ordinances in a single congregation are, prayer, thanksgiving, and + singing of psalms,[a] the word read, (although there follow no immediate + explication of what is read), the word expounded and applied, catechising, + the sacraments administered, collection made for the poor, dismissing the + people with a blessing. + + verses: + a: + - 1Tim.2.1 + - 1Cor.14.15-1Cor.14.16 + + - name: Of Church-Government, and the several sorts of Assemblies for the same + text: | + + Christ hath instituted a government, and governors ecclesiastical in the + church: to that purpose, the apostles did immediately receive the keys + from the hand of Jesus Christ, and did use and exercise them in all the + churches of the world upon all occasions. + + And Christ hath since continually furnished some in his church with gifts + of government, and with commission to execute the same, when called + thereunto. + + It is lawful, and agreeable to the word of God, that the church be + governed by several sorts of assemblies, which are congregational, + classical, and synodical. + + - name: Of the power in common of all these Assemblies + text: | + + It is lawful, and agreeable to the word of God, that the several + assemblies before mentioned have power to convent, and call before them, + any person within their several bounds, whom the ecclesiastical business + which is before them doth concern.[a] + + They have power to hear and determine such causes and differences as do + orderly come before them. + + It is lawful, and agreeable to the word of God, that all the said + assemblies have some power to dispense church-censures. + + verses: + a: + - Matt.18.15-Matt.18.20 + + - name: > + Of Congregational Assemblies, that is, the Meeting of the ruling + Officers of a particular Congregation, for the Government thereof + text: | + + The ruling officers of a particular congregation have power, + authoritatively, to call before them any member of the congregation, as + they shall see just occasion. + + To enquire into the knowledge and spiritual estate of the several members + of the congregation. + + To admonish and rebuke. + + Which three branches are proved by Heb. 13:17; 1 Thess. 5:12-13; + Ezek. 34:4.[a] + + Authoritative suspension from the Lord's table, of a person not yet cast + out of the church, is agreeable to the scripture: + + First, Because the ordinance itself must not be profaned. + + Secondly, Because we are charged to withdraw from those that walk + disorderly. + + Thirdly, Because of the great sin and danger, both to him that comes + unworthily, and also to the whole church.[b] And there was power and + authority, under the Old Testament, to keep unclean persons from holy + things.[c] + + The like power and authority, by way of analogy, continues under the New + Testament. + + The ruling officers of a particular congregation have power + authoritatively to suspend from the Lord's table a person not yet cast out + of the church: + + First, Because those who have authority to judge of, and admit, such as + are fit to receive the sacrament, have authority to keep back such as + shall be found unworthy. + + Secondly, Because it is an ecclesiastical business of ordinary practice + belonging to that congregation. + + When congregations are divided and fixed, they need all mutual help one + from another, both in regard of their intrinsical weaknesses and mutual + dependence, as also in regard of enemies from without. + + verses: + a: + - Heb.13.17 + - 1Thess.5.12-1Thess.5.13 + - Ezek.34.4 + b: + - Matt.7.6 + - 2Thess.3.6 + - 2Thess.3.14-2Thess.3.15 + - 1Cor.11.27 + c: + - Lev.13.5 + - Num.9.7 + - 2Chr.23.19 + + - name: Of Classical Assemblies + text: | + + The scripture doth hold out a presbytery in a church.[a] + + A presbytery consisteth of ministers of the word, and such other publick + officers as are agreeable to and warranted by the word of God to be + church-governors, to join with the ministers in the government of the + church.[b] + + The scripture doth hold forth, that many particular congregations may be + under one presbyterial government. + + This proposition is proved by instances: + + 1. First, Of the church of Jerusalem, which consisted of more + congregations than one, and all these congregations were under one + presbyterial government. + + This appeareth thus: + + First, The church of Jerusalem consisted of more congregations than one, + as is manifest: + + 1st, By the multitude of believers mentioned, in divers [places], both + before the dispersion of the believers there, by means of the + persecution,[c] and also after the dispersion. [d] + + 2dly, By the many apostles and other preachers in the church of + Jerusalem. And if there were but one congregation there, then each apostle + preached but seldom;[e] which will not consist with Acts 6:2. + + 3dly The diversity of languages among the believers, mentioned both in the + second and sixth chapters of the Acts, doth argue more congregations than + one in that church. + + Secondly, All those congregations were under one presbyterial government; + because, + + 1st, They were one church.[f] + + 2dly, The elders of the church are mentioned.[g] + + 3dly, The apostles did the ordinary acts of presbyters, as presbyters in + that kirk; which proveth a presbyterial church before the dispersion, Acts + vi. + + 4thly, The several congregations in Jerusalem being one church, the elders + of that church are mentioned as meeting together for acts of + government;[h] which proves that those several congregations were under + one presbyterial government. + + And whether these congregations were fixed or not fixed, in regard of + officers or members, it is all one as to the truth of the proposition. + + Nor doth there appear any material difference betwixt the several + congregations in Jerusalem, and the many congregations now in the ordinary + condition of the church, as to the point of fixedness required of officers + or members. + + Thirdly, Therefore the scripture doth hold forth, that many + congregations may be under one presbyterial government. + + 2. Second, By the instance of the church of Ephesus; for, + + First, That there were more congregations than one in the church of + Ephesus, appears by Acts 20:31,[i] where is mention of Paul's continuance + at Ephesus in preaching for the space of three years; and Acts + 19:18,19,20, where the special effect of the word is mentioned;[j] and + ver. 10. and 17. of the same chapter, where is a distinction of Jews and + Greeks;[k] and 1 Cor. 16:8,9, where is a reason of Paul's stay at + Ephesus until Pentecost;[l] and ver. 19, where is mention of a particular + church in the house of Aquila and Priscilla, then at Ephesus,[m] as + appears, Acts xviii. 19,24,26.[n] All which laid together, doth prove that + the multitude of believers did make more congregations than one in the + church of Ephesus. + + Secondly, That there were many elders over these many congregations, as + one flock, appeareth.[o] + + Thirdly, That these many congregations were one church, and that they were + under one presbyterial government, appeareth.[p] + + verses: + a: + - 1Tim.4.14 + - Acts.15.2 + - Acts.15.4 + - Acts.15.6 + b: + - Rom.12.7-Rom.12.8 + - 1Cor.12.28 + c: + - Acts.8.1 + - Acts.1.15 + - Acts.2.41 + - Acts.2.46-Acts.2.47 + - Acts.4.4 + - Acts.5.14 + - Acts.6.1 + - Acts.6.7 + d: + - Acts.9.31 + - Acts.12.24 + - Acts.21.20 + e: + - Acts.6.2 + f: + - Acts.8.1 + - Acts.2.47 + - Acts.5.11 + - Acts.12.5 + - Acts.15.4 + g: + - Acts.11.30 + - Acts.15.4 + - Acts.15.6 + - Acts.15.22 + - Acts.21.17-Acts.21.18 + h: + - Acts.11.30 + - Acts.15.4 + - Acts.15.6 + - Acts.15.22 + - Acts.21.17-Acts.21.18 + i: + - Acts.20.31 + j: + - Acts.19.18-Acts.19.20 + k: + - Acts.19.10 + - Acts.19.17 + l: + - 1Cor.16.8-1Cor.16.9 + m: + - 1Cor.16.19 + n: + - Acts.18.19 + - Acts.18.24 + - Acts.18.26 + o: + - Acts.20.17 + - Acts.20.25 + - Acts.20.28 + - Acts.20.30 + - Acts.20.36-Acts.20.37 + p: + - Rev.2.1-Rev.2.6 + + - name: Of Synodical Assemblies + text: | + + The scripture doth hold out another sort of assemblies for the government + of the church, beside classical and congregational, all which we call + Synodical.[a] + + Pastors and teachers, and other church-governors, (as also other fit + persons, when it shall be deemed expedient,) are members of those + assemblies which we call Synodical, where they have a lawful calling + thereunto. + + Synodical assemblies may lawfully be of several sorts, as provincial, + national, and oecumenical. + + It is lawful, and agreeable to the word of God, that there be a + subordination of congregational, classical, provincial, and national + assemblies, for the government of the church. + + verses: + a: + - Acts.15.2 + - Acts.15.6 + - Acts.15.22-Acts.15.23 + + - name: Of Ordination of Ministers + text: | + + Under the head of Ordination of Ministers is to be considered, either the + doctrine of ordination, or the power of it. + + - name: Touching the Doctrine of Ordination + text: | + + No man ought to take upon him the office of a minister of the word without + a lawful calling.[a] + + Ordination is always to be continued in the church.[b] + + Ordination is the solemn setting apart of a person to some publick church + office.[c] + + Every minister of the word is to be ordained by imposition of hands, and + prayer, with fasting, by those preaching presbyters to whom it doth + belong.[d] + + It is agreeable to the word of God, and very expedient, that such as are + to be ordained ministers, be designed to some particular church, or other + ministerial charge.[e] + + He that is to be ordained minister, must be duly qualified, both for life + and ministerial abilities, according to the rules of the apostle.[f] + + He is to be examined and approved by those by whom he is to be + ordained.[g] + + No man is to be ordained a minister for a particular congregation, if they + of that congregation can shew just cause of exception against him.[h] + + verses: + a: + - John.3.27 + - Rom.10.14-Rom.10.15 + - Jer.14.14 + - Heb.5.4 + b: + - Titus.1.5 + - 1Tim.5.21-1Tim.5.22 + c: + - Num.8.10-Num.8.11 + - Num.8.14 + - Num.8.19 + - Num.8.22 + - Acts.6.3 + - Acts.6.5-Acts.6.6 + d: + - 1Tim.5.22 + - Acts.14.23 + - Acts.13.3 + e: + - Acts.14.23 + - Titus.1.5 + - Acts.20.17 + - Acts.20.28 + f: + - 1Tim.3.2-1Tim.3.6 + - Titus.1.5-Titus.1.9 + g: + - 1Tim.3.7 + - 1Tim.3.10 + - 1Tim.5.22 + h: + - 1Tim.3.2 + - Titus.1.7 + + - name: Touching the Power of Ordination + text: | + + Ordination is the act of a presbytery.[a] + + The power of ordering the whole work of ordination is in the whole + presbytery, which, when it is over more congregations than one, whether + these congregations be fixed or not fixed, in regard of officers or + members, it is indifferent as to the point of ordination.[b] + + It is very requisite, that no single congregation, that can conveniently + associate, do assume to itself all and sole power in ordination: + + 1. Because there is no example in scripture that any single congregation, + which might conveniently associate, did assume to itself all and sole + power in ordination; neither is there any rule which may warrant such a + practice. + + 2. Because there is in scripture example of an ordination in a presbytery + over divers congregations; as in the church of Jerusalem, where were many + congregations: these many congregations were under one presbytery, and + this presbytery did ordain. + + The preaching presbyters orderly associated, either in cities or + neighbouring villages, are those to whom the imposition of hands doth + appertain, for those congregations within their bounds respectively. + + verses: + a: + - 1Tim.4.14 + b: + - 1Tim.4.14 + + - name: Concerning the Doctrinal Part of Ordination of Ministers + text: | + + 1. No man ought to take upon him the office of a minister of the word + without a lawful calling. [a] + + 2. Ordination is always to be continued in the church.[b] + + 3. Ordination is the solemn setting apart of a person to some publick + church office.[c] + + 4. Every minister of the word is to be ordained by imposition of hands, + and prayer, with fasting, by these preaching presbyters to whom it doth + belong. [d] + + 5. The power of ordering the whole work of ordination is in the whole + presbytery, which, when it is over more congregations than one, whether + those congregations be fixed or not fixed, in regard of officers or + members, it is indifferent as to the point of ordination.[e] + + 6. It is agreeable to the word, and very expedient, that such as are to be + ordained ministers be designed to some particular church, or other + ministerial charge. [f] + + 7. He that is to be ordained minister, must be duly qualified, both for + life and ministerial abilities, according to the rules of the apostle.[g] + + 8. He is to be examined and approved by those by whom he is to be + ordained.[h] + + 9. No man is to be ordained a minister for a particular congregation, if + they of that congregation can shew just cause of exception against him. + [i] + + 10. Preaching presbyters orderly associated, either in cities or + neighbouring villages, are those to whom the imposition of hands doth + appertain, for those congregations within their bounds respectively.[j] + + 11. In extraordinary cases, something extraordinary may be done, until a + settled order may be had, yet keeping as near as possibly may be to the + rule.[k] + + 12. There is at this time (as we humbly conceive) an extraordinary + occasion for a way of ordination for the present supply of ministers. + + verses: + a: + - John.3.27 + - Rom.10.14-Rom.10.15 + - Jer.14.14 + - Heb.5.4 + b: + - Titus.1.5 + - 1Tim.5.21-1Tim.5.22 + c: + - Num.8.10-Num.8.11 + - Num.8.14 + - Num.8.19 + - Num.8.22 + - Acts.6.3 + - Acts.6.5-Acts.6.6 + d: + - 1Tim.5.22 + - Acts.14.23 + - Acts.13.3 + e: + - 1Tim.4.14 + f: + - Acts.14.23 + - Titus.1.5 + - Acts.20.17 + - Acts.20.28 + g: + - 1Tim.3.2-1Tim.3.6 + - Titus.1.5-Titus.1.9 + h: + - 1Tim.3.7 + - 1Tim.3.10 + - 1Tim.5.22 + i: + - 1Tim.3.2 + - Titus.1.7 + j: + - 1Tim.4.14 + k: + - 2Chr.29.34-2Chr.29.36 + - 2Chr.30.2-2Chr.30.5 + + - name: The Directory for the Ordination of Ministers + text: | + + It being manifest by the word of God, that no man ought to take upon him + the office of a minister of the gospel, until he be lawfully called and + ordained thereunto; and that the work of ordination is to be performed + with all due care, wisdom, gravity, and solemnity, we humbly tender these + directions, as requisite to be observed. + + 1. He that is to be ordained, being either nominated by the people, or + otherwise commended to the presbytery, for any place, must address himself + to the presbytery, and bring with him a testimonial of his taking the + covenant of the three kingdoms; of his diligence and proficiency in his + studies; what degrees he hath taken in the university, and what hath been + the time of his abode there; and withal of his age, which is to be twenty + four years; but especially of his life and conversation. + + 2. Which being considered by the presbytery, they are to proceed to + enquire touching the grace of God in him, and whether he be of such + holiness of life as is requisite in a minister of the gospel; and to + examine him touching his learning and sufficiency, and touching the + evidences of his calling to the holy ministry; and, in particular, his + fair and direct calling to that place. + + #### The Rules for Examination are these: + + (1.) That the party examined be dealt withal in a brotherly way, with + mildness of spirit, and with special respect to the gravity, modesty, and + quality of every one. + + (2.) He shall be examined touching his skill in the original tongues, and + his trial to be made by reading the Hebrew and Greek Testaments, and + rendering some portion of some into Latin; and if he be defective in them, + enquiry shall be made more strictly after his other learning, and whether + he hath skill in logick and philosophy. + + (3.) What authors in divinity he hath read, and is best acquainted with; + and trial shall be made in his knowledge of the grounds of religion, and + of his ability to defend the orthodox doctrine contained in them against + all unsound and erroneous opinions, especially these of the present age; + of his skill in the sense and meaning of such places of scripture as shall + be proposed unto him, in cases of conscience, and in the chronology of the + scripture, and the ecclesiastical history. + + (4.) If he hath not before preached in publick with approbation of such as + are able to judge, he shall, at a competent time assigned him, expound + before the presbytery such a place of scripture as shall be given him. + + (5.) He shall also, within a competent time, frame a discourse in Latin + upon such a common-place or controversy in divinity as shall be assigned + to him, and exhibit to the presbytery such theses as express the sum + thereof, and maintain a dispute upon them. + + (6.) He shall preach before the people, the presbytery, or some of the + ministers of the word appointed by them, being present. + + (7.) The proportion of his gifts in relation to the place unto which he is + called shall be considered. + + (8.) Beside the trial of his gifts in preaching, he shall undergo an + examination in the premises two several days, and more, if the presbytery + shall judge it necessary. + + (9.) And as for him that hath formerly been ordained a minister, and is to + be removed to another charge, he shall bring a testimonial of his + ordination, and of his abilities and conversation, whereupon his fitness + for that place shall be tried by his preaching there, and (if it shall be + judged necessary) by a further examination of him. + + 3. In all which he being approved, he is to be sent to the church where he + is to serve, there to preach three several days and to converse with the + people, that they may have trial of his gifts for their edification, and + may have time and occasion to enquire into, and the better to know, his + life and conversation. + + 4. In the last of these three days appointed for the trial of his gifts in + preaching, there shall be sent from the presbytery to the congregation a + publick intimation in writing, which shall be publickly read before the + people, and after affixed to the church-door, to signify that such a day a + competent number of the members of that congregation, nominated by + themselves, shall appear before the presbytery, to give their consent and + approbation to such a man to be their minister; or otherwise, to put in, + with all Christian discretion and meekness, what exceptions they have + against him. And if, upon the day appointed, there be no just exception + against him, but the people give their consent, then the presbytery shall + proceed to ordination. + + 5. Upon the day appointed for ordination, which is to be performed in that + church where he that is to be ordained is to serve, a solemn fast shall be + kept by the congregation, that they may the more earnestly join in prayer + for a blessing upon the ordinances of Christ, and the labours of his + servant for their good. The presbytery shall come to the place, or at + least three or four ministers of the word shall be sent thither from the + presbytery; of which one appointed by the presbytery shall preach to the + people concerning the office and duty of ministers of Christ, and how the + people ought to receive them for their work's sake. + + 6. After the sermon, the minister who hath preached shall, in the face of + the congregation, demand of him who is now to be ordained, concerning how + faith in Christ Jesus, and his persuasion of the truth of the reformed + religion, according to the scriptures; his sincere intentions and ends in + desiring to enter into this calling; his diligence in praying, reading, + meditation, preaching, ministering the sacraments, discipline, and doing + all ministerial duties towards his charge; his zeal and faithfulness in + maintaining the truth of the gospel, and unity of the church, against + error and schism; his care that himself and his family may be unblameable, + and examples to the flock; his willingness and humility, in meekness of + spirit, to submit unto the admonitions of his brethren, and discipline of + the church; and his resolution to continue in his duty against all trouble + and persecution. + + 7. In all which having declared himself, professed his willingness, and + promised his endeavours, by the help of God; the minister likewise shall + demand of the people concerning their willingness to receive and + acknowledge him as the minister of Christ; and to obey and submit unto + him, as having rule over them in the Lord; and to maintain, encourage, and + assist him in all the parts of his office. + + 8. Which being mutually promised by the people, the presbytery, or the + ministers sent from them for ordination, shall solemnly set him apart to + the office and work of the ministry, by laying their hands on him, which + is to be accompanied with a short prayer or blessing, to this effect: + + "Thankfully acknowledging the great mercy of God in sending Jesus + Christ for the redemption of his people; and for his ascension to the + right hand of God the Father, and thence pouring out his Spirit, and + giving gifts to men, apostles, evangelists, prophets, pastors, and + teachers; for the gathering and building up of his church; and for fitting + and inclining this man to this great work: to entreat him to fit him with + his Holy Spirit, to give him (who in his name we thus set apart to this + holy service) to fulfil the work of his ministry in all things, that he + may both save himself, and his people committed to his charge." + + 9. This or the like form of prayer and blessing being ended, let the + minister who preached briefly exhort him to consider of the greatness of + his office and work, the danger of negligence both to himself and his + people, the blessing which will accompany his faithfulness in this life, + and that to come; and withal exhort the people to carry themselves to him, + as to their minister in the Lord, according to their solemn promise made + before. And so by prayer commending both him and his flock to the grace of + God, after singing of a psalm, let the assembly be dismissed with a + blessing. + + 10. If a minister be designed to a congregation, who hath been formerly + ordained presbyter according to the form of ordination which hath been in + the church of England, which we hold for substance to be valid, and not to + be disclaimed by any who have received it; then, there being a cautious + proceeding in matters of examination, let him be admitted without any new + ordination. + + 11. And in case any person already ordained minister in Scotland, or in + any other reformed church, be designed to another congregation in England, + he is to bring from that church to the presbytery here, within which that + congregation is, a sufficient testimonial of his ordination, of his life + and conversation while he lived with them, and of the causes of his + removal; and to undergo such a trial of his fitness and sufficiency, and + to have the same course held with him in other particulars, as is set down + in the rule immediately going before, touching examination and admission. + + 12. That records be carefully kept in the several presbyteries, of the + names of the persons ordained, with their testimonials, the time and place + of their ordination, of the presbyters who did impose hands upon them, and + of the charge to which they are appointed. + + 13. That no money or gift, of what kind soever, shall be received from the + person to be ordained, or from any on his behalf, for ordination, or ought + else belonging to it, by any of the presbytery, or any appertaining to any + of them, upon what pretence soever. + + - name: > + Thus far of ordinary Rules, and course of Ordination, in the ordinary + way; that which concerns the extraordinary way, requisite to be now + practised, followeth + text: | + + 1. In these present exigencies, while we cannot have any presbyteries + formed up to their whole power and work, and that many ministers are to be + ordained for the service of the armies and navy, and to many congregations + where there is no minister at all; and where (by reason of the publick + troubles) the people cannot either themselves enquire and find out one who + may be a faithful minister for them, or have any with safety sent unto + them, for such a solemn trial as was before mentioned in the ordinary + rules; especially, when there can be no presbytery near unto them, to whom + they may address themselves, or which may come or send to them a fit man + to be ordained in that congregation, and for that people; and yet + notwithstanding, it is requisite that ministers be ordained for them by + some, who, being set apart themselves for the work of the ministry, have + power to join in the setting apart others, who are found fit and worthy. + In those cases, until, by God's blessing, the aforesaid difficulties may + be in some good measure removed, let some godly ministers, in or about the + city of London, be designed by publick authority, who, being associated, + may ordain ministers for the city and the vicinity, keeping as near to the + ordinary rules fore-mentioned as possibly they may; and let this + association be for no other intent or purpose, but only for the work of + ordination. + + 2. Let the like association be made by the same authority in great towns, + and the neighbouring parishes in the several counties, which are at the + present quiet and undisturbed, to do the like for the parts adjacent. + + 3. Let such as are chosen, or appointed for the service of the armies or + navy, be ordained, as aforesaid, by the associated ministers of London, or + some others in the country. + + 4. Let them do the like, when any man shall duly and lawfully be + recommended to them for the ministry of any congregation, who cannot enjoy + liberty to have a trial of his parts and abilities, and desire the help of + such ministers so associated, for the better furnishing of them with such + a person as by them shall be judged fit for the service of that church and + people. + + verses: + +... diff --git a/data/westminster/solemn-league-and-covenant.yaml b/data/westminster/solemn-league-and-covenant.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..e75ee82e4ad9997db163bc7ef22f261ec32758c7 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/westminster/solemn-league-and-covenant.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,117 @@ +--- +name: The Solemn League and Covenant +publication_year: 1643 +type: creed +markdown: true +text: | + + We noblemen, barons, knights, gentlemen, citizens, burgesses, ministers of the + Gospel, and commons of all sorts, in the kingdoms of Scotland, England, and + Ireland, by the providence of GOD living under one king, and being of one + reformed religion, having before our eyes the glory of God, and the advancement + of the kingdom of our Lord and Saviour JESUS CHRIST, the honour and happiness of + the king's majesty and his posterity, and the true public liberty, safety, and + peace of the kingdom, wherein every one's private condition is included: and + calling to mind the treacherous and bloody plots, conspiracies, attempts, and + practices of the enemies of GOD, against the true religion and professors + thereof in all places, especially in these three kingdoms, ever since the + reformation of religion; and how much their rage, power, and presumption, are of + late, and at this time, increased and exercised, whereof the deplorable state of + the Church and kingdom of Ireland, the distressed state of the Church and + kingdom of England, and the dangerous state of the Church and kingdom of + Scotland, are present and public testimonies: we have now at last (after other + means of supplication, remonstrance, protestation, and sufferings), for the + preservation of ourselves and our religion from utter ruin and destruction, + according to the commendable practice of these kingdoms in former times, and the + example of GOD'S people in other nations, after mature deliberation, resolved + and determined to enter into a Mutual and Solemn League and Covenant, wherein we + all subscribe, and each one of us for himself, with our hands lifted up to the + Most High GOD, do swear, + + I. THAT we shall sincerely, really, and constantly, through the grace of GOD, + endeavor, in our several places and callings, the preservation of the reformed + religion in the Church of Scotland, in doctrine, worship, discipline, and + government, against our common enemies; the reformation of religion in the + kingdoms of England and Ireland, in doctrine, worship, discipline, and + government, according to the Word of GOD, and the example of the best reformed + Churches; and shall endeavour to bring the Churches of GOD in the three + kingdoms to the nearest conjunction and uniformity in religion, Confession of + Faith, Form of Church Government, Directory for Worship and Catechising; that + we, and our posterity after us, may, as brethren, live in faith and love, and + the Lord may delight to dwell in the midst of us. + + II. That we shall, in like manner, without respect of persons, endeavour the + extirpation of Popery, Prelacy (that is, Church government by archbishops, + bishops, their chancellors and commissioners, deans, deans and chapters, + archdeacons, and all other ecclesiastical officers depending on that + hierarchy), superstition, heresy, schism, profaneness, and whatsoever shall be + found contrary to sound doctrine and the power of Godliness; lest we partake + in other men's sins, and thereby be in danger to receive of their plagues; and + that the Lord may be one, and his name one, in the three kingdoms. + + III. We shall, with the same sincerity, reality, and constancy, in our several + vocations, endeavour, with our estates and lives, mutually to preserve the + rights and privileges of the Parliaments, and the liberties of the kingdoms; + and to preserve and defend the king's majesty's person and authority, in the + preservation and defence of the true religion and liberties of the kingdoms; + that the world may bear witness with our consciences of our loyalty, and that + we have no thoughts or intentions to diminish his majesty's just power and + greatness. + + IV. We shall also, with all faithfulness, endeavour the discovery of all such + as have been or shall be incendiaries, malignants, or evil instruments, be + hindering the reformation of religion, dividing the king from his people, or + one of the kingdoms from another, or making any faction or parties among the + people, contrary to this League and Covenant; that they may be brought to + public trial, and receive condign punishment, as the degree of their offences + shall require or deserve, or the supreme judicatories of both kingdoms + respectively, or others having power from them for that effect, shall judge + convenient. + + V. And whereas the happiness of a blessed peace between these kingdoms, denied + in former times to our progenitors, is, by the good providence of GOD, granted + unto us, and hath been lately concluded and settled by both Parliaments; we + shall, each one of us, according to our place and interest, endeavour that + they may remain conjoined in a firm peace and union to all posterity; and that + justice may be done upon the willful opposers thereof, in manner expressed in + the precedent article. + + VI. We shall also, according to our places and callings, in this common cause + of religion, liberty, and peace of the kingdoms, assist and defend all those + that enter into this League and Covenant, in the maintaining and pursuing + thereof; and shall not suffer ourselves, directly or indirectly, by whatsoever + combination, persuasion, or terror, to be divided or withdrawn from this + blessed union and conjunction, whether to make defection to the contrary part, + or to give ourselves to a detestable indifferency or neutrality in this cause, + which so much concerneth the glory of God, the good of the kingdom, and honour + of the king; but shall, all the days of our lives, zealously and constantly + continue therein against all opposition, and promote the same, according to + our power, against all lets and impediments whatsoever; and what we are not + able ourselves to suppress or overcome, we shall reveal and make known, that + it may be timely prevented or removed: All which we shall do as in the sight + of God. + + And, because these kingdoms are guilty of many sins and provocations against + GOD, and his Son JESUS CHRIST, as is too manifest by our present distresses + and dangers, the fruits thereof; we profess and declare, before GOD and the + world, our unfeigned desire to be humbled for our own sins, and for the sins + of these kingdoms; especially that we have not, as we ought, valued the + inestimable benefit of the Gospel; that we have not laboured for the purity + and power thereof; and the we have not endeavoured to receive Christ in our + hearts, not to walk worthy of him in our lives; which are the causes of other + sins and transgression so much abounding amongst us: and our true and + unfeigned purpose, desire, and endeavour, for ourselves, and all others under + our power and charge, both in public and in private, in all duties we owe to + GOD and man, to amend our lives, and each one to go before another in the + example of a real reformation; that the Lord may turn away his wrath and heavy + indignation, and establish these Churches and kingdoms in truth and peace. And + this Covenant we make in the presence of ALMIGHTY GOD, the Searcher of all + hearts, with a true intention to perform the same, as we shall answer at that + great day, when the secrets of all hearts shall be disclosed; most humbly + beseeching the LORD to strengthen us by his HOLY SPIRIT for this end, and to + bless our desires and proceedings with such success, as may be deliverance and + safety to his people, and encouragement to other Christian Churches, groaning + under, or in danger of the yoke of antichristian tyranny, to join in the same + or like association and covenant, to the glory of GOD, the enlargement of the + kingdom of JESUS CHRIST, and the peace and tranquillity of Christian kingdoms + and commonwealths. diff --git a/data/westminster/sum-of-saving-knowledge.yaml b/data/westminster/sum-of-saving-knowledge.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..2cd6cb6eb3591170b8a9dc1aae428fd3d797aac8 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/westminster/sum-of-saving-knowledge.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,1297 @@ +--- +name: The Sum of Saving Knowledge +publication_year: 1650 +type: document +markdown: true +chapters: + + - name: The Sum of Saving Knowledge is this + text: | + + 1. The woeful condition which all men are in by nature, through breaking of the covenant of works. + 2. The remedy provided for the elect in Jesus Christ by the covenant of grace. + 3. The means appointed to make them partakers of this covenant. + 4. The blessings which are effectually conveyed to the elect by these means. + + Consider these four points + + ### Head I. + + Our woeful condition by nature, through breaking the covenant of works. + + Hos 13.9 "O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself." + + I. In eternity past, God did most wisely decree, for his own glory, + whatever comes to pass in time: and in a most holy and infallible manner + executes all his decrees, without being author of the sin of any creature. + + II. God originally made everything from nothing, perfect. He made our + first parents, Adam and Eve, the root of mankind, both upright and able to + keep the law written in their hearts. This law they were naturally bound + to obey upon penalty of death. God was not bound to reward their service, + till he entered into a covenant or contract with them, and their posterity + in them. He promised to give them eternal life, upon condition of perfect + personal obedience. If they failed they would die. This is the covenant of + works. + + III. Both angels and men were subject to the change of their own free + will. God alone is unchangeable. Many angels of their own accord fell by + sin from their first estate, and became demons. Our first parents, being + enticed by Satan, one of these demons, broke the covenant of works, by + eating the forbidden fruit. By this action, they, and their posterity, + became not only liable to eternal death, but also lost all ability to + please God. They became by nature enemies to God, and to all spiritual + good, and were only inclined to do evil continually. This is our original + sin, the bitter root of all our actual transgressions, in thought, word, + and deed. + + ### Head II. + + The remedy provided in Jesus Christ for the elect by the covenant of + Grace. + + "O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself; but in me is thine help." Hos 13.9 + + I. Albeit man, having brought himself into this woeful condition, is + neither able to help himself, nor willing to be helped by God out of it, + but rather inclined to lie still, insensible of it, till he perish; yet + God, for the glory of his rich grace, has revealed in his word a way to + save sinners, that is, by faith in Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, + by virtue of, and according to the tenor of the covenant of redemption, + made and agreed upon between God the Father and God the Son, in council of + the Trinity, before the world began. + + II. The sum of the covenant of redemption is this: God having freely + chosen to life a certain number of lost mankind, for the glory of his rich + grace, did give them, before the world began, to God the Son, appointed + Redeemer, that, upon condition he would humble himself so far as to assume + the human nature, of a soul and a body, to personal union with his divine + nature, and submit himself to the law, as surety for them, and satisfy + justice for them, by giving obedience in their name, even to the suffering + of the cursed death of the cross, he should ransom and redeem them all + from sin and death, and purchase to them righteousness and eternal life, + with all saving graces leading there to, to be effectually, by means of + his own appointment, applied in due time to every one of them. This + condition the Son of God (who is Jesus Christ our Lord) did accept before + the world began, and in the fulness of time came into the world, was born + of the Virgin Mary, subjected himself to the law, and completely paid the + ransom on the cross: But by virtue of the foresaid bargain, made before + the world began, he is in all ages, since the fall of Adam, still upon the + work of applying actually the purchased benefits of the elect; and that he + does by way of entertaining a covenant of free grace and reconciliation + with them, through faith in himself; by which covenant, he makes over to + every believer a right and interest to himself, and to all his blessings. + + III. For the accomplishment of this covenant of redemption, and making the + elect partakers of the benefits of it in the covenant of grace, Christ + Jesus was clad with the threefold office of Prophet, Priest, and King: + made a Prophet, to reveal all saving knowledge to his people, and persuade + them to believe and obey the same; made a Priest, to offer up himself a + sacrifice once for them all, and to intercede continually with the Father, + for making their persons and services acceptable to him; and made a King, + to subdue them to himself, to feed and rule them by his own appointed + ordinances, and to defend them from their enemies. + + ### Head III. + + The outward means appointed to make the elect partakers of this covenant, + and all the rest that are called, to be inexcusable. + + "Many are called." Matt. 22.14 + + I. The outward means and ordinances, for making men partakers of the + covenant of grace, are so wisely dispensed, as that the elect shall be + infallibly converted and saved by them; and the reprobate, among whom they + are, not to be justly damned: The means are especially these four: + + i. The word of God + ii. The ordinances + iii. Church + iv. Prayer + + In the word of God preached by sent messengers, the Lord makes offer of + grace to all sinners, upon condition of faith in Jesus Christ; and whoever + does confess their sin, accept Christ’s offering, and submit themselves to + his ordinances, he will have them received into the honour and privileges + of the covenant of grace. By the ordinances, God will have the covenant + sealed for confirming the bargain on the foresaid condition. By the + Church, he will have them hedged in, and helped forward to the keeping of + the covenant. And by prayer, he will have his own glorious grace, promised + in the covenant, to be daily drawn forth, acknowledged, and employed. All + these means are followed either really, or in profession only, according + to the quality of the covenanters, as they are true or counterfeit + believers. + + II. The covenant of grace, set down in the Old Testament before Christ + came, and in the New since he came, is one and the same in substance, + albeit different in outward administration: For the covenant in the Old + Testament, being sealed with the ordinances of circumcision and the + paschal lamb, did set forth Christ’s death to come, and the benefits + purchased by it, under the shadow of bloody sacrifices, and various + ceremonies: but since Christ came, the covenant being sealed by the + ordinances of baptism and the Lord’s supper, does clearly hold forth + Christ already crucified before our eyes, victorious over death and the + grave, and gloriously ruling heaven and earth, for the good of his own + people. + + ### Head IV. + + The blessings which are effectually conveyed by these means to the Lord’s elect, or chosen ones. + + "Many are called, but few are chosen." Matt 12.14. + + I. By those outward ordinances, as our Lord makes the reprobate + inexcusable, so, by the power of his Spirit, he applies to the elect, + effectually, all saving graces purchased to them in the covenant of + redemption, and makes a change in their persons. In particular, + + II. He does convert or regenerate them, by giving spiritual life to them, + in opening their understandings, renewing their wills, affections, and + faculties, for giving spiritual obedience to his commands. + + III. He gives them saving faith, by making them, in the sense of deserved + condemnation, to give their consent heartily to the covenant of grace, and + to embrace Jesus Christ unfeignedly. + + IV. He gives them repentance, by making them, with godly sorrow, in the + hatred of sin, and love of righteousness, turn from all iniquity to the + service of God. + + V. He sanctifies them, by making them go on and persevere in faith and + spiritual obedience to the law of God, manifested by fruitfulness in all + duties, and doing good works, as God offers occasion. + + VI. Together with this inward change of their persons, God changes also + their state: for, so soon as they are brought by faith into the covenant + of grace, + + VII. He justifies them, by imputing to them that perfect obedience which + Christ gave to the law, and the satisfaction also which upon the cross + Christ gave to justice in their name. + + VIII. He reconciles them, and makes them friends to God, who were before + enemies of God. + + IX. He adopts them, that they shall be no more children of Satan, but + children of God, enriched with all spiritual privileges of his sons. + + X. And, last of all, after their warfare in this life is ended, he + perfects the holiness and blessedness, first of their souls at their + death, and then both of their souls and their bodies, being joyfully + joined together again in the resurrection, at the day of his glorious + coming to judgment, when all the wicked shall be sent away to hell, with + Satan whom they have served: but Christ’s own chosen and redeemed ones, + true believers, students of holiness, shall remain with himself for ever, + in the state of glorification. + + - name: The Practical Use of Saving Knowledge + text: | + + + Contained in Scripture, and held forth briefly in the foresaid Confession + of Faith and Catechisms. + + The chief general use of Christian doctrine is, to convince a man of sin, + and of righteousness, and of judgment, John 16:8 partly by the law or + covenant of works, that he may be humbled and become penitent; and partly + by the gospel or covenant of grace, that he may become an unfeigned + believer in Jesus Christ, and be strengthened in his faith upon solid + grounds and warrants, and give evidence of the truth of his faith by good + fruits, and so be saved. + + The sum of the covenant of works, or of the law, is this: + + "If thou do all that is commanded, and not fail in any point, thou shalt + be saved: but if thou fail, thou shalt die." Ro. 10:5, Gal 3:10,12. + + The sum of the gospel, or covenant of grace and reconciliation, is this: + + "If thou flee from deserved wrath to the true Redeemer Jesus Christ, (who + is able to save to the uttermost all that come to God through him,) thou + shalt not perish, but have eternal life." Rom 10:8,9,11. + + For convincing a man of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment by the law, + or covenant of works, let those scriptures, among many more, be made use + of. + + I. For convincing a man of sin by the law, consider Jer. 17.9,10 + + "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can + know it? I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every + man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings." + + Here the Lord teaches two things: + + i. That the fountain of all our wickedness, and actual sinning against + God, is in the heart, which comprehends the mind, will, affections, and + all the powers of the soul, as they are corrupted and defiled with + original sin; the mind being not only ignorant and incapable of saving + truth, but also full of error and enmity against God; and the will and + affections being obstinately disobedient to all God’s directions, and bend + toward that only which is evil: “The heart” (saith he) “is deceitful above + all things, and desperately wicked;” yea and unsearchably wicked, so that + no man can know it; and Gen 6.5 “Every imagination of the thoughts “of + man’s heart is only evil continually,” saith the Lord, whose testimony we + must trust in this and all other matters; and experience also may teach + us, that, till God make us deny ourselves, we never look to God in + anything, but fleshly self interest alone does rule us, and move all the + wheels of our actions. + + ii. That the Lord brings our original sin, or wicked inclination, with all + its actual fruits, to reckoning before his judgment seat; “For he searches + the heart, and tries the reins, to give every man according to his ways, + and according to the fruit of his doings.” + + Hence let every man reason thus: + + "What God and my guilty conscience bears witness of, I am convinced that + it is true: But God and my guilty conscience bears witness that my heart + is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked; and that all the + imaginations of my heart, are only evil continually:” “Therefore I am + convinced that this true." + + Thus a man may be convinced of sin by the law. + + II. For convincing a man of righteousness by the law, consider Gal 3.10 + + "As many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is + written, Cursed is every one that continues not in all things which are + written in the book of the law to do them." + + Here the apostle teaches us three things. + + i. That, by reason of our natural sinfulness, the impossibility of any + man’s being justified by the works of the law is so certain, that whoever + does seek justification by works of the law, are liable to the curse of + God for breaking of the law; “For as many as are of the works of the law + are under the curse,” he says. + + ii. That, to the perfect fulfilling of the law, the keeping of one or two + of the precepts, or doing of some, or of all duties (if it were possible) + for a time is not sufficient; for the law requires, that “a man continue + in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.” + + iii. That, because no man can come up to this perfection, every man by + nature is under the curse; for the law says, “Cursed is every one that + continues not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do + them.” + + Now, to be under the curse, comprehends all the displeasure of God, with + the danger of the breaking forth more and more of his wrath upon soul and + body, both in this life, and after death perpetually, if grace does not + prevent its execution. + + Hence let every man reason thus: + + "Whoever, according to the covenant of works, is liable to the curse of + God for breaking the law, times and ways out of number, cannot be + justified, or find righteousness by the works of the law:” But I, (may + every man say,) according to the covenant of works, am liable to the curse + of God, for breaking the law times and ways without number: Therefore I + cannot be justified, or have righteousness by the works of the law." + + Thus may a man be convinced of righteousness, that it is not to be had by + his own works, or by the law. + + III. For convincing a man of judgment by the law, consider: + + "The Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In + flaming fire, taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey + not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with + everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory + of his power; When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be + admired in all them that believe." 2 Th. 2:7-10 + + Wherein we are taught, that our Lord Jesus, who now offers to be Mediator + for them who believe in him, shall, at the last day, come armed with + flaming fire, to judge, condemn, and destroy all them who have not + believed God, have not received the offer of grace made in the gospel, not + obeyed its doctrine; but remain in their natural state, under the law or + covenant of works. + + Hence let every man reason thus: + + "What the righteous Judge has forewarned me shall be done at the last day, + I am sure is a just judgment: “But the righteous Judge has forewarned me, + that if I do not believe God in time, and obey not the doctrine of the + gospel, I shall be secluded from his presence and his glory at the last + day, and be tormented in soul and body for ever:” “Therefore I am + convinced that this is a just judgment:” “And I have reason to thank God + heartily, who has forewarned me to flee from the wrath which is to come." + + Thus every man may be, by the law or covenant of works, convinced of + judgment, if he shall continue under the covenant of works, or shall not + obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. + + IV. For convincing a man of sin, righteousness, and judgment, by the + gospel. + + As for convincing a man of sin, and righteousness, and judgment, by the + gospel, or covenant of grace, he must understand three things: + + i. That not believing in Jesus Christ, or refusing of the covenant of + grace offered in him, is a greater and more dangerous sin than all other + sins against the law; because the hearers of the gospel, not believing in + Christ, do reject God’s mercy in Christ, the only way of freedom from sin + and wrath, and will not yield to be reconciled to God. + + ii. Next, he must understand, that perfect remission of sin, and true + righteousness, is to be had only by faith in Jesus; but God requires no + other conditions but faith; and testifies from heaven, that he is well + pleased to justify sinners upon this condition. + + iii. He must understand, that upon righteousness received by faith, + judgment shall follow, on the one hand, to the destroying of the works of + the devil in the believer, and to the perfecting of the work of + sanctification in him, with power: and that, upon refusing to take + righteousness by faith in Jesus Christ, judgment shall follow, on the + other hand, to the condemnation of the unbeliever, and destroying of him + with Satan and his servants for ever. + + For this end, let these passages of scripture, among many others, serve to + make the greatness of the sin of not believing in Christ appear; or, to + make the greatness of the sin of refusing of the covenant of grace offered + to us, in the offering of Christ to us appear, let the fair offer of grace + be looked upon as it is made, Isa. 55:3 “Incline your ear, and come to me, + (says the Lord:) hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an + everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.” That is, + If you will believe me, and be reconciled to me, I will, by covenant, give + to you Christ, and all saving graces in him: repeated Acts 13:34. + + Again, consider, that this general offer in substance is equivalent to a + special offer made to every one in particular; as appears by the apostle’s + making use of it, Acts 16:31. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou + shalt be saved, and thy house.” The reason of which offer is given, John + 3:16. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, + that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting + life.” Seeing then this great salvation is offered in the Lord Jesus, + whoever believes not in him, but looks for happiness some other way, what + does he else but observe lying vanities, and forsake his own mercy, which + he might have had in Christ? Jonah 2:8,9. What does he else but blaspheme + God in his heart? as it is said, 1 John 5:10,11. “He that believeth not + God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God + gave of his Son. And this is the record, that God has given to us eternal + life; and this life is in his Son.” And that no sin against the law is + like to this sin, Christ testifies, John 15:22. “If I had not come and + spoken to them, they had not sin; but now they have no cloak for their + sin.” This may convince a man of the greatness of this sin of not + believing in Christ. + + V. For convincing a man of righteousness to be had only by faith in Jesus + Christ, consider how, Rom. 10:3,4 + + It is said, that the Jews, “being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and + going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted + themselves unto the righteousness of God,” (and so they perished.) “For + Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that + believeth.” And Acts 13:39. “By him all that believe are justified from + all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.” And + 1 John 1:7 “The blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” + + For convincing a man of judgment, if a man embrace this righteousness, + consider 1 John 3:8. “For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that + he might destroy the works of the devil.” And Heb 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.” + + But if a man embrace not this righteousness, his doom is pronounced, John + 3:18,19. “He that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not + believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the + condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness + rather than light.” + + Hence let the penitent, desiring to believe, reason thus: + + “What does suffice to convince all the elect in the world of the greatness + of the sin of not believing in Christ, or refusing to flee to him for + relief from sins done against the law, and from wrath due to it; and what + suffices to convince them that righteousness and eternal life is to be had + by faith in Jesus Christ, or by consenting to the covenant of grace in + him; and what suffices to convince them of judgment to be exercised by + Christ, for destroying the works of the devil in a man, and sanctifying + and saving all that believe in him, may suffice to convince me also:” “But + what the Spirit has said, in these or other like scriptures, suffices to + convince the elect world of the foresaid sin, and righteousness, and + judgment:” “Therefore what the Spirit has said, in these and other like + scriptures, serves to convince me of it also.” + + Whereupon let the penitent desiring to believe take with him words, and + say heartily to the Lord, Seeing you say, “Seek ye my face;” my soul + answers to you, “Thy face, Lord, will I seek.” I have harkened to the + offer of an everlasting covenant of all saving mercies to be had in + Christ, and I do heartily embrace your offer. Lord, let it be a bargain; + “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief:” Behold, I give myself to you, to + serve you in all things for ever; and I hope “your right hand shall save + me:” the Lord will perfect that which concerns me: your mercy, O Lord, + endures for ever; forsake not “the works of thine own hands.” + + Thus may a man be made an unfeigned believer in Christ. + + VI. For strengthening the man’s faith who has agreed to the covenant of + grace. + + Because many true believers are weak, and do much doubt if ever they shall + be sure of the soundness of their own faith and effectual calling, or made + certain of their justification and salvation, when they see that many who + profess faith, are found to deceive themselves; let us see how every + believer may be made strong in the faith, and sure of his own election and + salvation upon solid grounds, by sure warrants, and true evidences of + faith. To this end, among other scriptures, take these following. + + i. For laying solid grounds of Faith, consider Peter 1:10 “Therefore the + rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: + for if ye do these things ye shall never fall.” + + In which words, the apostle teaches us these four things, for help and + direction how to be made strong in the faith. + + a. That such as believe in Christ Jesus, and are fled to him for relief + from sin and wrath, albeit they be weak in the faith, yet they are indeed + children of the same Father with the apostles; for so he accounts of them, + while he calls them brethren. + + b. That albeit we are not sure, for the time, of our effectual calling and + election, yet we may be made sure of both, if we use diligence; for this + he presupposes, saying, “Give diligence; to make your calling and election + sure.” + + c. That we must not be discouraged, when we see many seeming believers + prove rotten branches, and make defection; but we must the rather take the + better heed to ourselves: “Wherefore the rather, brethren, (said he,) give + all diligence.” + + d. That the way to be sure both of our effectual calling and election, is + to make sure work of our faith, by laying the grounds of it solidly, and + bringing forth the fruits of our faith in new obedience constantly: “For + if ye do these things, (said he,) ye shall never fall;” understanding by + “these things” what he had said of sound faith, Verses 1,2,3,4 and what he + had said of the bringing out of the fruits of faith, Verses 5.6,7,8,9. + + ii. To this same purpose, consider Rom 8.1, + + “1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ + Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2 For the law + of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin + and death. 3 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; 4 That the righteousness of the law + might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after flesh, but after the Spirit.” + + Wherein the apostle teaches us these four things, for laying of the ground + of faith solidly: + + a. That every one is a true believer, who, in the sense of his sin, and + fear of God’s wrath, does flee for full relief from both to Jesus Christ + alone, as the only Mediator and all-sufficient Redeemer of men; and, being + fled to Christ, does strive against his own flesh, or corrupt inclination + of nature, and studies to follow the rule of God’s Spirit, set down in his + word: for the man, whom the apostle does here bless as a true believer, is + a man in Christ Jesus, “who doth not walk after the flesh, but after the + Spirit.” + + b. That all such persons as are fled to Christ, and do strive against sin, + however they may be possibly exercised under the sense of wrath, and fear + of condemnation, yet they are in no danger; for “there is no condemnation + (said he) to them that are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, + but after the Spirit.” + + c. That albeit the apostle himself, (brought in here for example’s cause,) + and all other true believers in Christ, be by nature under the law of sin + and death, or under the covenant of works, (called the law of sin and + death, because it binds sin and death upon us, till Christ set us free;) + yet the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus, or the covenant of + grace, (so called, because it does enable and quicken a man to a spiritual + life through Christ,) does set the apostle, and all true believers, free + from the covenant of works, or the law of sin and death: so that every man + may say with him, “The law of the Spirit of life,” or the covenant of + grace, “has made me free from the law of sin and death,” or the covenant + of works. + + d. That the fountain and first ground, from whence our freedom from the + curse of the law does flow, is the covenant of redemption, passed between + God and God the Son as incarnate, wherein Christ takes the curse of the + law upon him for sin, that the believer, who could not otherwise be + delivered from the covenant of works, may be delivered from it. And this + doctrine the apostle holdeth forth in these four branches: + + 1. That it was utterly impossible for the law, or the covenant of works, to + bring righteousness and life to a sinner, because it was weak. + + 2. That this weakness and inability of the law, or covenant of works, is + not the fault of the law, but the fault of sinful flesh, which is neither + able to pay the penalty of sin, not to give perfect obedience to the law, + (presupposing past sins were forgiven:) “The law was weak (said he,) + through the flesh” + + 3. That the righteousness and salvation of sinners, which was impossible to + be brought about by the law, is brought to pass by sending God’s own Son, + Jesus Christ, in the flesh, in whose flesh sin is condemned and punished, + for making satisfaction in the behalf of the elect, that they might be set + free. + + 4. That by his means the law loses nothing, because the righteousness of + the law is best fulfilled this way, first, by Christ’s giving perfect + active obedience in our name to it in all things; next, by his paying in + our name the penalty due to our sins in his death: and, lastly, by his + working of sanctification in us, who are true believers, who strive to + give new obedience to the law, and “walk not after the flesh, but after + the Spirit.” + + + - name: Warrants to Believe + text: | + + ### Section 1 + + For building our confidence upon this solid ground, these four Warrants + and special Motives to believe in Christ may serve. + + The first is God’s hearty invitation, held forth, Isa. 55:1-4. + + “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no + money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money + and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for [that which is] not + bread? and your labour for [that which] satisfieth not? hearken diligently + unto me, and eat ye [that which is] good, and let your soul delight itself + in fatness. Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall + live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, [even] the sure + mercies of David. Behold, I have given him [for] a witness to the people, + a leader and commander to the people.” + + Here (after setting down the precious ransom of our redemption by the + sufferings of Christ, and the rich blessings purchased to us by it, in the + two former chapters) the Lord, in this chapter, + + I. Makes open offer of Christ and his grace, by proclamation of a free and + gracious market of righteousness and salvation, to be had through Christ + to every soul, without exception, that truly desires to be saved from sin + and wrath: “Ho, every one that thirsteth”. + + II. He invites all sinners, that for any reason stand at a distance from + God, to come and take from him riches of grace, running in Christ as a + river, to wash away sin, and to slacken wrath: “Come ye to the waters”. + + III. Lest any should stand back in the sense of his own sinfulness or + unworthiness, and inability to do any good, the Lord calls upon such + persons in special, saying, “He that hath no money, come.” + + IV. He craves no more of his merchant, but that he be pleased with the + wares offered, which are grace, and more grace; and that he heartily + consent to, and embrace this offer of grace, that so he may close a + bargain, and a formal covenant with God; “Come, buy without money, come, + eat:” that is, consent to have, and take to you all saving graces; make + the wares your own, possess them, and make use of all blessings in Christ; + whatever makes for your spiritual life and comfort, use and enjoy it + freely, without paying anything for it: “Come, buy wine and milk without + money, and without price”. + + V. Because the Lord knows how much we are inclined to seek righteousness + and life by our own performances and satisfaction, to have righteousness + and life as it were by the way of works, and how loath we are to embrace + Christ Jesus, and to take life by way of free grace through Jesus Christ, + upon the terms whereupon it is offered to us; therefore the Lord lovingly + calls us off this our crooked and unhappy way with a gentle and timeous + admonition, giving us to understand, that we shall but lose our labour in + this our way: “Wherefore do ye spend your money for that which is not + bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not?” + + VI. The Lord promises to us solid satisfaction in the way of taking + ourselves to the grace of Christ, even true contentment, and fulness of + spiritual pleasure saying, “Hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that + which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.” + + VII. Because faith comes by hearing, he calls for listening to the + explanation of the offer, and calls for believing of, and listening to the + truth, which is able to beget the application of saving faith, and to draw + the soul to trust in God: “Incline your ear, and come unto me”. To which + end, the Lord promises, that this offer being received, shall quicken the + dead sinner; and that, upon the welcoming of this offer, he will close the + covenant of grace with the man that shall consent to it, even an + everlasting covenant of perpetual reconciliation and peace: “Hearken, and + your soul shall live: and I will make an everlasting covenant with you.” + Which covenant, he declares, shall be in substance the assigning, and the + making over, of all the saving graces which David (who is Jesus Christ, + Acts 13.34) has bought for us in the covenant of redemption: “I will make + a covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.” By sure mercies, he + means saving graces, such as are righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy + Spirit, adoption, sanctification, and glorification, and whatever belongs + to godliness and life eternal. + + VIII. To confirm and assure us of the real grant of these saving mercies, + and to persuade us of the reality of the covenant between God and the + believer of this word, the Father has made a fourfold gift of his eternal + and only begotten Son: + + i. To be incarnate and born for our sake, of the seed of David his type; + for which cause he is called here, and Acts 13.34, David, the true and + everlasting King of Israel. This is the great gift of God to man John + 4.10. And here “I have given him to be David,” or born of David, “to the + people.” + + ii. He has made a gift of Christ to be a witness to the people, both of + the sure and saving mercies granted to the redeemed in the covenant of + redemption; and also of the Father’s willingness and purpose to apply + them, and to make them fast in the covenant of reconciliation made with + such as embrace the offer: “I have given him to be a witness to the + people.” And truly he is a sufficient witness in this matter in many + respects: + + a. Because he is one of the blessed Trinity, and party-contractor for us, + in the covenant of redemption, before the world was. b. He is by office, + as Mediator, the Messenger of the covenant, and has received a commission + to reveal it. c. He began actually to reveal in paradise, where he + promised, that the seed of the woman should bruise the head of the + serpent. d. He set forth his own death and sufferings, and the great + benefits that should come thereby to us, in the type and figures of + sacrifices and ceremonies before his coming. e. He gave more and more + light about this covenant, speaking by his Spirit, from age to age, in the + holy prophets. f. He came himself, in the fulness of time, and did bear + witness of all things belonging to this covenant, and of God’s willing + mind to take believers into it; partly, by uniting our nature in one + person with the divine nature; partly, by preaching the good tidings of + the covenant with his own mouth; partly, by paying the price of redemption + on the cross; and partly by dealing still with the people, from the + beginning to this day, to draw in, and to hold in the redeemed in this + covenant. + + iii. God has made a gift of Christ, as a leader to the people, to bring us + through all difficulties, all afflictions and temptations, to life, by + this covenant: and he it is, and no other, who does indeed lead his own to + the covenant; and, in the covenant, all the way on to salvation: + + a. By the direction of his word and Spirit. b. By the example of this own + life, in faith and obedience, even to the death of the cross. c. By his + powerful working, bearing his redeemed ones in his arms, and causing them + to lean on him, while they go up through the wilderness. + + iv. God has made a gift of Christ to his people, as a commander: which + office he faithfully exercises, by giving to his church and people laws + and ordinances, pastors and elders, and all necessary officers; by keeping + courts and assemblies among them, to see that his laws are obeyed; + subduing, by his word, Spirit, and discipline, his people’s corruptions; + and, by his wisdom and power, guarding them against all their enemies + whatever. + + Hence he who has closed bargain with God may strengthen his faith, by + reasoning after this manner: + + “Whoever heartily receives the offer of free grace, made here to sinners, + thirsting for righteousness and salvation: to him, by an everlasting + covenant, belongs Christ, the true David, with all his sure and saving + mercies:” “But I (may the weak believer say) do heartily receive the offer + of free grace made here to sinners, thirsting for righteousness and + salvation:” “Therefore to me, by an everlasting covenant, belongs Christ + Jesus, with all his sure and saving mercies.” + + ### Section 2 + + The second Warrant and special Motive to embrace Christ, and believe in + him, is the “earnest request” that God makes to us to be reconciled to him + in Christ; held forth, 2 Cor. 5.19-21 + + “To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not + imputing their trespasses unto them; and has committed unto us the word of + reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did + beseech [you] by us: we pray [you] in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to + God. For he has made him [to be] sin for us, who knew no sin; that we + might be made the righteousness of God in him.” + + Wherein the apostle teaches us these nine doctrines. + + I. That the elect world, or world of redeemed souls, are by nature in the + estate of enmity against God: this is presupposed in the word + reconciliation; for reconciliation, or renewing of friendship, cannot be, + except between those that have been at enmity. + + II. That in all the time past, since the fall of Adam, Christ Jesus, the + eternal Son of God, as Mediator, and the Father in him, has been about the + making friendship (by his work and Spirit) between himself and the elect + world: “God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself.” + + III. That the way of reconciliation was in all ages one and the same in + substance, that is, by forgiving the sons of them who do acknowledge their + sins and their enmity against God, and do seek reconciliation and + remission of sins in Christ: “For God was in Christ reconciling the world + unto himself,” by way of, “not imputing their trespasses unto them.” + + IV. That the end and scope of the gospel, and whole word of God, is + threefold: + + i. It serves to make people sensitive to their sins, and of their enmity + against God, and of their danger, if they should stand out, and not fear + God’s displeasure. + + ii. The word of God serves to make men acquainted with the course which + God has prepared for making friendship with them through Christ, That is, + that if men shall acknowledge the enmity, and shall be content to enter + into a covenant of friendship with God through Christ, then God will be + content to be reconciled with them freely. + + iii. The word of God serves to teach men how to carry themselves toward + God, as friends, after they are reconciled to him, that is, to be loath to + sin against him, and to strive heartily to obey his commandments: and + therefore the word of God here is called “the word of reconciliation”, + because it teaches us what need we have of reconciliation, and how to make + it, and how to keep the reconciliation of friendship, being made with God + through Christ. + + V. That albeit the hearing, believing, and obeying of this word, does + belong to all those to whom this gospel comes; yet the office of preaching + of it with authority belongs to none, but to such only as God calls to his + ministry, and sends out with commission for this work. This the apostle + holds forth, Verse 19. in these words, “He hath committed to us the word + of reconciliation.” + + VI. That the ministers of the gospel should behave themselves as Christ’s + messengers, and should closely follow their commission set down in the + word, Matt 28.19,20; and when they do so, they should be received by the + people as ambassadors from God; for here the apostle, in all their names + say, “We are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us.” + + VII. That ministers, in all earnestness of affections, should deal with + people to acknowledge their sins, and their natural enmity against God, + more and more seriously; and to consent to the covenant of grace and + ambassador of Christ more and more heartily; and to evidence more and more + clearly their reconciliation, by a holy carriage before God. This he holds + forth, when he says, “We pray you, be ye reconciled to God.” + + VIII. That in the ministers’ affectionate dealing with the people, the + people should consider what they have to do with God and Christ, + requesting them, by the ministers, to be reconciled. Now, there cannot be + a greater inducement to break a sinner’s hard heart, than God’s making a + request to him for friendship; for when it became us, who have done so + many wrongs to God, to seek friendship of God, he comes before us: and (O + wonder of wonders!) he requests us to be content to be reconciled to him; + and therefore most fearful wrath must abide on them who make light of this + request, and do not yield when they hear ministers with commission, + saying, ” We are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by + us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” + + IX. To make it appear how it comes to pass that the covenant of + reconciliation should be so easily made up between God and a humble sinner + fleeing to Christ, the apostle leads us to the cause of it, held forth in + the covenant of redemption, the sum whereof is this: + + “It is agreed between God and the Mediator Jesus Christ the Son of God, + surety for the redeemed, as the parties of the contract, that the sins of + the redeemed should be imputed to the innocent Christ, and he both + condemned and put to death for them, upon this very condition, that + whoever heartily consents to the covenant of reconciliation offered + through Christ, shall, by the imputation of his obedience to them, be + justified and held righteous before God; for God has made Christ, `who + knew no sin, to be sin for us, that we might be made the righteousness of + God in him.'” + + Hence may a weak believer strengthen his faith, by reasoning from this + ground after this manner: + + “He that, upon the loving request of God and Christ, made to him by the + mouth of ministers, (having commission to that effect,) has embraced the + offer of perpetual reconciliation through Christ, and does purpose, by + God’s grace, as a reconciled person, to strive against sin, and to serve + God to his power constantly, may be as sure to have righteousness and + eternal life given to him, for the obedience of Christ imputed to him, as + it is sure that Christ was condemned and put to death for the sins of the + redeemed imputed to him:” “But I (may the weak believer say) upon the + loving request of God and Christ, made to me by the mouth of his + ministers, have embraced the offer or perpetual reconciliation through + Christ, and do purpose, by God’s grace, as a reconciled person, to strive + against sin, and to serve God to my power constantly:” “Therefore I may be + as sure to have righteousness and eternal life given to me, for the + obedience of Christ imputed to me, as it is sure that Christ was condemned + and put to death for the sins of the redeemed imputed to him.” + + ### Section 3 + + The third warrant and special Motive to believe in Christ, is the straight + and “awful command of God”, charging all the hearers of the gospel to + approach to Christ in the order set down by him, and to believe in him; as + held forth, + + “And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his + Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.” 1 John + 3.23 + + Wherein the apostle gives us to understand these five doctrines: + + I. That if any man shall not accept the sweet invitation of God, or the + humble and loving request of God, made to him to be reconciled, he shall + find he has to deal with the sovereign authority of the highest Majesty; + for “this is his commandment, that we believe in him”. + + II. That if any man look upon this commandment as he has looked hereto + upon the neglected commandments of the law, he must consider that this is + a command of the gospel, after the law, given for making use of the remedy + of sins; which, if it be disobeyed, there is no other command to follow + but this, “Go, ye cursed, into the everlasting fire of hell;” for “this is + his commandment;” the obedience of which is most pleasant in his sight, + Verse 22 and without which it is impossible to please him, Heb 11.6. + + III. That every one who hears the gospel, must make conscience of the duty + of lively faith in Christ; the weak believer must not think it presumption + to do what is commanded; the person inclined to desperation must take up + himself, and think upon obedience to sweet and saving command; the strong + believer must dip yet more in the sense of his need he has of Jesus + Christ, and more and more grow in the obedience of this command, yes, the + most impenitent, profane, and wicked person must not thrust out himself, + or be thrust out by others, from orderly aiming at this duty, how + desperate ever his condition seems to be; for he that commands all men to + believe in Christ, does thereby command all men to believe that they are + damned and lost without Christ: he thereby commands all men to acknowledge + their sins, and their need of Christ, and in effect commands all men to + repent, that they may believe in him. And whoever does refuse to repent of + their past sins, are guilty of disobedience to this command given to all + hearers, but especially to those that are within the visible church: for + “this is his commandment, that we should believe on the name of his Son + Jesus Christ”. + + IV. That he who obeys this commandment has built his salvation on a solid + ground: for, + + i. He has found the promised Messiah, completely furnished with all + perfections to the perfect execution of the offices of Prophet, Priest, + and King; for he is that Christ in whom the man does believe. + + ii. He has embraced a Saviour, who is able to save to the uttermost, yes, + who does effectually save every one that comes to God through him; for he + is Jesus, the true Saviour of his people from their sins. + + iii. He that obeys this command has built his salvation on the Rock, that + is, on the Son of God, to whom it is no robbery to be called equal to the + Father, and who is worthy to be the object of saving faith, and of + spiritual worship: for this is his command, that “we believe in the name + of his Son Jesus Christ.” + + V. That he who has believed on Jesus Christ, though he is freed from the + curse of the law, is not freed from the command and obedience of the law, + but tied to it by a new obligation, and a new command from Christ; which + new command from Christ gives help to obey the command: to which command + from Christ, the Father adds his authority and command also; for “this is + his commandment that we believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and + love one another, as he has commanded us.” The first part of which + command, enjoining belief in him, necessarily implies love to God, and so + obedience to the first table; for believing in God, and loving God, are + inseparable; and the second part of the command enjoins love to our + neighbour, (especially to the household of faith,) and so obedience to the + second table of the law. + + Hence may a weak believer strengthen himself, by reasoning from this + ground after this manner: + + “Whoever, in the sense of his own sinfulness, and fear of God’s wrath, at + the command of God, is fled to Jesus Christ, the only remedy of sin and + misery, and has engaged his heart to the obedience of the law of love, his + faith is not presumptuous or dead, but true and saving faith:” “But I, + (may the weak believer say,) in the sense of my own sinfulness, and fear + of God’s wrath, am fled to Jesus Christ, the only remedy of sin and + misery, and have engaged my heart to the obedience of the law of love:” + “Therefore my faith is not a presumptuous and dead faith, but true and + saving faith.” + + ### Section 4 + + The fourth Warrant and special Motive to believe in Christ, is “much + assurance of life” given, in case men shall obey the command of believing; + and a “fearful certification” of destruction, in case they obey not; as + held forth, + + “The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand. He + that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not + the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” John + 3.35,36 + + Wherein are held forth to us these five following doctrines: + + I. That the Father is well satisfied with the undertakings of the Son, + entered Redeemer and Surety, to pay the ransom of believers and to perfect + them in holiness and salvation: “the Father loveth the Son,”; that is, as + he stands as Mediator in our name, undertaking to perfect our redemption + in all points: The Father loves him, that is, does heartily accept his + offer to do the work, and is well pleased with him: his soul delights in + him, and rests upon him, and makes him, in this his office, the + “receptacle of love, and grace, and good will,” to be conveyed by him to + believers in him. + + II. That, for fulfilling of the covenant of redemption, the Father has + given to the Son (as he stands in the capacity of the Mediator, or as he + is God incarnate, the Word made flesh) all authority in heaven and earth, + all supply of the riches of grace, and of spirit and life, with all power + and ability, which the union of the divine nature with the human, or which + the fulness of the Godhead dwelling substantially in his human nature, or + which the indivisible all-sufficiency and omnipotency of the inseparable, + every where present Trinity does import, or the work of redemption can + require: “the Father has given all things into the Son’s hand,” that is, + for accomplishing his work. + + III. Great assurance of life is held forth to all who shall heartily + receive Christ, and the offer of the covenant of grace and reconciliation + through him: “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life;” for it + is made certain to him, + + i. In God’s purpose and irrevocable decree, as the believer is a man + elected to life. + + ii. By effectual calling of him to life by God, who, as he is faithful, so + ill do it. + + iii. By promise and everlasting covenant, sworn by God, to give the + believer strong consolation in life and death, upon immutable grounds. + + iv. By the pledge and security under the great seal of the ordinance of + the Lord’s supper, so oft as the believer shall come to receive the + symbols and pledges of life. + + v. In Christ the fountain and head of life, who is entered in possession, + as attorney for believers; in whom our life is so laid up, that it cannot + be taken away. + + vi. By being in possession of spiritual life and regeneration, and a + kingdom consisting in righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, + erected within the believer, as the earnest of the full possession of + everlasting life. + + IV. A fearful warning is given, if a man receive not the doctrine + concerning righteousness and eternal life to be had by Jesus Christ: “He + that believeth not the Son shall not see life,” that is, not so much as + understand what it means. + + V. He further warns, that if a man receive not the doctrine of the Son of + God, he shall be burdened twice with the wrath of God; once as a born + rebel by nature, he shall bear the curse of the law, or the covenant of + works; and next, he shall endure a greater condemnation, in respect that + light being come into the world, and offered to him, he has rejected it, + and loves darkness rather than light: and this double wrath shall be + fastened and fixed immovably upon him, so long as he remains in the + condition of unbelief: “The wrath of God abideth on him”. + + Hence may the weak believer strengthen his faith, by reasoning from this + ground after this manner: + + “Whosoever believes the doctrine delivered by the Son of God, and finds + himself partly drawn powerfully to believe in him, by the sight of life in + him, and partly driven, by the fear of God’s wrath, to adhere to him, may + be sure of right and interest to eternal life through him:” “But sinful + and unworthy I (may the weak believer say) do believe the doctrine + delivered by the Son of God, and do feel myself partly drawn powerfully to + believe in him, by the sight of life in him, and partly driven, by the + fear of God’s wrath, to adhere to him:” “Therefore, I may be sure of my + right and interest to eternal life through him.” + + + - name: The Evidences of True Faith + text: | + + ### Section 1 + + So much for the laying of the grounds of faith, and warrants to + believe. Now, for evidencing of true faith by fruits, these four things + are requisite: + + I. That the believer be soundly convinced, in his judgment, of his + obligation to keep the whole moral law, all the days of his life; and that + not the less, but so much the more, as he is delivered by Christ from the + covenant of works, and curse of the law. + + II. That he endeavour to grow in the exercise and daily practice of + godliness and righteousness. + + III. That the course of his new obedience run in the right channel, that + is through faith in Christ, and through a good conscience, to all the + duties of love towards God and man. + + IV. That he keep strait communion with the fountain Christ Jesus, from + whom grace must run along, for furnishing of good fruits. + + For the first, that is, to convince the believer, in his judgment, of his + obligation to keep the moral law, among many passages: + + “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, + and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Think not that I am come to + destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to + fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or + one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be + fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least + commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the + kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach [them], the same shall + be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, That except + your righteousness shall exceed [the righteousness] of the scribes and + Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” + Mat. 5.16-20 + + Wherein our Lord, + + i. Gives commandment to believers, justified by faith, to give evidence of + the grace of God in them before men, by doing good works: “Let your light + so shine before men that they may see your good works.” + + ii. He induces them so to do, by showing, that albeit they be not + justified by works, yet spectators of their good works may be converted or + edified; and so glory may redound to God by their good works, when its + witnesses “shall glorify your Father which is in heaven.” + + iii. He gives them no other rule for their new obedience than the moral + law, set down and explicated by Moses and the prophets: “Think not that I + am come to destroy the law or the prophets.” + + iv. He gives them to understand, that the doctrine of grace, and freedom + from the curse of the law by faith in him, is readily mistaken by men’s + corrupt judgments, as if it did loose or slacken the obligation of + believers to obey the commands, and to be subject to the authority of the + law; and that this error is indeed a destroying of the law and of the + prophets, which he will in no case ever endure in any of his disciples, it + is so contrary to the end of his coming, which is first to sanctify, and + then to save believers: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law or + the prophets.” + + v. He teaches, that the end of the gospel and covenant of grace is to + procure men’s obedience to the moral law: “I am come to fulfil the law and + the prophets.” + + vi. That the obligation of the moral law, in all points, to all holy + duties, is perpetual, and shall stand to the world’s end, that is, “till + heaven and earth pass away.” + + vii. That as God has had a care of the Scripture from the beginning, so + shall he have a care of them still to the world’s end, that there shall + not one jot or one tittle of its substance be taken away; so says the + text, Verse 18. + + viii. That as the breaking of the moral law, and defending its + transgressions to be no sin, does exclude men both from heaven, and justly + also from the fellowship of the true church; so the obedience of the law, + and teaching others to do the same, by example, counsel, and doctrine, + according to every man’s calling, proves a man to be a true believer, and + in great estimation with God, and worthy to be much esteemed of by the + true church, Verse 19. + + ix. That the righteousness of every true Christian must be more than the + righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees; for the scribes and Pharisees, + albeit they took great pains to discharge various duties of the law, yet + they cut short its exposition, that it might the less condemn their + practice; they studied the outward part of the duty, but neglected the + inward and spiritual part; they discharged some lesser duties carefully, + but neglected judgment, mercy, and the love of God: in a word, they went + about to establish their own righteousness, and rejected the righteousness + of God by faith in Jesus. But a true Christian must have more than all + this; he must acknowledge the full extent of the spiritual meaning of the + law, and have a respect to all the commandments, and labour to cleanse + himself from all filthiness of flesh and spirit, and “not lay weight upon + what service he has done, or shall do,” but clothe himself with the + imputed righteousness of Christ, which only can hide his nakedness, or + else he cannot be saved; so says the text, “Except your righteousness, …” + + ### Section 2 + + The second thing requisite to evidence of true faith is, that the believer + endeavour to put the rules of godliness and righteousness in practice, and + to grow in its daily exercise; as held forth: + + “And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to + virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; + and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to + brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, + they make [you that ye shall] neither [be] barren nor unfruitful in the + knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 2 Pe. 1:5-8 Wherein, + + I. The apostle teaches believers, for evidencing of precious faith in + themselves, to endeavour to add to their faith seven other sister graces. + + i. The first is Virtue, or the active exercise and practice of all moral + duties, that so faith is not idle, but puts forth itself in work. + + ii. The second is Knowledge, which serves to furnish faith with + information of the truth to be believed, and to furnish virtue with + direction what duties are to be done, and how to go about them prudently. + + iii. The third is Temperance, which serves to moderate the use of all + pleasant things, that a man be not clogged therewith, nor made unfit for + any duty to which he is called. + + iv. The fourth is Patience, which serves to moderate a man’s affections, + when he meets with any difficulty or unpleasant thing; that he neither + weary for pains required in well-doing, nor faint when the Lord chastises + him, nor murmur when he crosses him. + + v. The fifth is Godliness, which may keep him up in all the exercises of + religion, inward and outward; whereby he may be furnished from God for all + other duties which he has to do. + + vi. The sixth is Brotherly-kindness, which keeps estimation of, and + affection to, all the household of faith, and to the image of God in every + one where ever it is seen. + + vii. The seventh is Love, which keeps the heart in readiness to do good to + all men, whatever they be, upon all occasions which God shall offer. + + II. Albeit it be true, that this is much corruption and infirmity in the + godly; yet the apostle will have men mightily endeavouring, and doing + their best, as they are able, to join all these graces one to another, and + to grow in the measure of exercising them: “Giving all diligence, add to + your faith, …” + + III. He assures all professed believers, that as they shall profit in the + obedience of this direction, so they shall profitably prove the soundness + of their own faith; and if they not have these graces, that they shall be + found blind deceivers of themselves, Verse 9. T5852 The Evidences of True + Faith + + ### Section 3 + + The third thing requisite to evidence true faith is, that obedience to the + law run in the right channel, that is, through faith in Christ, etc. as + held forth: + + “Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and [of] a + good conscience, and [of] faith unfeigned:” 1 Ti. 1:5 Wherein the apostle + teaches these seven doctrines: + + I. That the obedience of the law must flow from love, and love from a pure + heart, and a pure heart from a good conscience, and a good conscience from + faith unfeigned: this he makes the only right channel of good works: “The + end of the law is love, …” + + II. That the end of law is not, that men may be justified by their + obedience of it, as the Jewish doctors did falsely teach; for it is + impossible that sinners can be justified by the law, who, for every + transgression, are condemned by the law: “For the end of the law is (not + such as the Jewish doctors taught, but) love, out of a pure heart, …” + + III. That the true end of the law, preached to the people, is, that they, + by the law, being made to see their deserved condemnation, should flee to + Christ unfeignedly, to be justified by faith in him; so says the text, + while it makes love to flow through faith in Christ. + + IV. That no man can set himself in love to obey the law, excepting as far + as his conscience is quieted by faith, or is seeking to be quieted in + Christ; for “the end of the law is love, out of good conscience, and faith + unfeigned.” + + V. That feigned faith goes to Christ without reckoning with the law, and + so wants an errand; but unfeigned faith reckons with the law, and is + forced to flee for refuge to Christ, as the end of the law for + righteousness, so often as it finds itself guilty for breaking of the law: + “For the end of the law is faith unfeigned.” + + VI. That the fruits of love may come forth in act particularly, it is + necessary that the heart be brought to the hatred of all sin and + uncleanness, and to a steadfast purpose to follow all holiness + universally: “For the end of the law is love, out of a pure heart.” + + VII. That unfeigned faith is able to make the conscience good, and the + heart pure, and the man lovingly obedient to the law; for when Christ’s + blood is seen by faith to quiet justice, then the conscience becomes quiet + also, and will not suffer the heart to entertain the love of sin, but set + the man on work to fear God for his mercy, and to obey all his + commandments, out of love to God, for his free gift of justification, by + grace bestowed on him: “For this is the end of the law indeed,” whereby it + obtains of a man more obedience than any other way. + + ### Section 4 + + The fourth thing requisite to evidence true faith is, the “keeping strait + communion with Christ,” the fountain of all graces, and of all good works; + as held forth: + + “I am the vine, ye [are] the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in + him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do + nothing.” John 15:5 + + Wherein Christ, in a similitude from a vine-tree, teaches us, + + I. That by nature we are wild barren briers, till we be changed by coming + to Christ; and that Christ is that noble vine-tree, having all life and + sap of grace in himself, and able to change the nature of every one that + comes to him, and to communicate spirit and life to as many as shall + believe in him: “I am the vine, and ye are the branches.” + + II. That Christ loves to have believers so united to him, as that they be + not separated at any time by unbelief: and that there may be a mutual + inhabitation of them in him, by faith and love; and of him in them, by his + word and Spirit; for he joins these together, “If ye abide in me, and I in + you,” as things inseparable. + + III. That except a man be ingrafted into Christ, and united to him by + faith, he cannot do any the least good works of his own strength; yes, + except in as far as a man does draw spirit and life from Christ by faith, + the work which he does is naughty and null in point of goodness in God’s + estimation: “For without me ye can do nothing.” + + IV. That this mutual inhabitation is the fountain and infallible cause of + constant continuing and abounding in well-doing: For “he that abideth in + me, and I in him, the same beareth much fruit.” Now, as our abiding in + Christ presupposes three things; + + i. That we have heard the joyful sound of the gospel, making offer of + Christ to us, who are lost sinners by the law; + + ii. That we have heartily embraced the gracious offer of Christ; + + iii. That by receiving of him we are become the sons of God, John 1:12, + and are incorporated into his mystical body, that he may dwell in us, as + his temple, and we dwell in him, as in the residence of righteousness and + life: + + So our abiding in Christ imports other three things, + + iv. An employing of Christ in all our addresses to God, and in all our + undertakings of whatever piece of service to him. + + v. A contentedness with this sufficiency, without going out from him to + seek righteousness, or life, or help in any case, in our own or any of the + creature’s worthiness. + + vi. A fixedness in our believing in him, a fixedness in our employing and + making use of him, and a fixedness in our contentment in him, and adhering + to him, so that no allurement, not temptation of Satan or the world, no + terror nor trouble, may be able to drive our spirits from firm adherence + to him, or from the constant avowing of his truth, and obeying his + commands, who has loved us, and given himself for us; and in whom not only + our life is laid up, but also the fulness of the Godhead dwells bodily, by + reason of the substantial and personal union of the divine and human + nature in him. Hence let every watchful believer, for strengthening + himself in faith and obedience, reason after this manner: + + “Whoever does daily employ Christ Jesus for cleansing his conscience and + affections from the guiltiness and filthiness of sins against the law, and + for enabling him to give obedience to the law in love, he has the evidence + of true faith in himself:” “But I (may every watchful believer say) do + daily employ Jesus Christ for cleansing my conscience and affections from + the guiltiness and filthiness of sins against the law, and for enabling of + me to give obedience to the law in love:” “Therefore I have the evidence + of true faith in myself.” + + And hence also let the sleepy and sluggish believer reason, for his own + upstirring, thus: + + “Whatever is necessary for giving evidence of true faith, I study to do + it, except I would deceive myself and perish:” “But to employ Christ Jesus + daily for cleansing of my conscience and affections from the guiltiness + and filthiness of sins against the law, and for enabling me to give + obedience to the law in love, is necessary for evidencing of true faith in + me:” “Therefore this I must study to do, except I would deceive myself and + perish.” + + And, lastly, Seeing Christ himself has pointed this forth, as an undoubted + evidence of a man elected of God to life, and given to Jesus Christ to be + redeemed, “if he come unto him,” that is, close covenant, and keep + communion with him, as he teaches in John 6.37, saying: + + “All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me + I will in no wise cast out;” let every person, who does not in earnest + make use of Christ for remission of sin, and amendment of life, reason + hence, and from the whole premises, after this manner, that his conscience + may be awakened: + + “Whoever is neither by the law, nor by the gospel, so convinced of sin, + righteousness, and judgment, as to make him come to Christ, and employ him + daily for remission of sin, and amendment of life; he wants not only all + evidence of saving faith, but also all appearance of his election, so long + as he remains in this condition:” + + “But I (may every impenitent person say) am neither by the law nor gospel + so convinced of sin, righteousness, and judgment, as to make me come to + Christ, and employ him daily for remission of sin, and amendment of life:” + + “Therefore I lack not only all evidence of saving faith, but also all + appearance of my election, so long as I remain in this condition.” diff --git a/data/westminster/to-the-christian-reader.yaml b/data/westminster/to-the-christian-reader.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..5c55f2809050de6d1699cbc95cd97301831543d8 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/westminster/to-the-christian-reader.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,223 @@ +--- +name: To the Christian Reader, especially heads of families +publication_year: 1646 +type: creed +markdown: true +text: | + + As we cannot but with grief of soul lament those multitudes of errors, + blasphemies, and all kinds of profaneness, which have in this last age, like a + mighty deluge, overflown this nation; so, among several other sins which have + helped to open the flood-gates of all these impieties, we cannot but esteem + the disuse of family instruction one of the greatest. The two great pillars + upon which the kingdom of Satan is erected, and by which it is upheld, are + ignorance and error, the first step of our manumission from this spiritual + thraldom consists in having our *eyes opened, and being turned from darkness to + light*, Acts 26:18. How much the serious endeavours of godly parents and + masters might contribute to an early seasoning the tender years of such as are + under their inspection, is abundantly evident, not only from their special + influence upon them, in respect of their authority over them, interest in + them, continual presence with them, and frequent opportunities of being + helpful to them; but also from the sad effects which, by woeful experience, we + find to be the fruit of the omission of this duty. It were easy to set before + you a cloud of witnesses, the language of whose practice hath been not only an + eminent commendation of this duty, but also a serious exhortation to it. As + *Abel, though dead, yet speaks* by his example to us for imitation of his faith, + etc., Heb. 11:4, so do the examples of Abraham, of Joshua, of the parents of + Solomon, of the grandmother and mother of Timothy, the mother of Augustine, + whose care was as well to nurse up the souls as the bodies of their little + ones; and as their pains herein was great, so was their success no way + unanswerable. + + We should scarce imagine it any better than an impertinency, in this noon-day + of the gospel, either to inform or persuade in a duty so expressly commanded, + so frequently urged, so highly encouraged, and so eminently owned by the Lord + in all ages with his blessing, but that our sad experience tells us, this duty + is not more needful, than it is of late neglected. For the restoring of this + duty to its due observance, give us leave to suggest this double advice. + + The *first* concerns heads of families in respect of themselves; That as the Lord + hath set them in place above the rest of their family, they would labour in all + wisdom and spiritual understanding to be above them also. It is an uncomely + sight to behold men in years babes in knowledge; and how unmeet are they to + instruct others, who need themselves to be taught *which be the first principles + of the oracles of God*, Heb. 5:12. Knowledge is an accomplishment so desirable, + that the devils themselves knew not a more taking bait by which to tempt our + first parents, than by the fruit of the tree of knowledge; *So shall you be as + gods, knowing good and evil*. When Solomon had that favour shewed him of the + Lord, that he was made his own chuser what to ask, he knew no greater mercy to + beg than wisdom, 1 Kings 3:5, 9. The understanding is the guide and pilot of the + whole man, that faculty which sits at the stern of the soul: but as the most + expert guide may mistake in the dark, so may the understanding, when it wants + the light of knowledge: *Without knowledge the mind cannot be good*, Prov. 19:2; + nor the life good, nor the eternal condition safe, Eph. 4:18. *My people are + destroyed for lack of knowledge*, Hos.4:6. It is ordinary in scripture to set + profaneness, and all kind of miscarriages, upon the score of ignorance. Diseases + in the body have many times their rise from distempers in the head, and + exorbitancies in practice from errors in judgment: and indeed in every sin there + is something both of ignorance and error at the bottom: for, did sinners truly + know what they do in sinning, we might say of every sin what the Apostle speaks + concerning that great sin, *Had they known him, they would not have crucified the + Lord of glory*; did they truly know that every sin is a provoking the Lord to + jealousy, a proclaiming war against Heaven, *a crucifying the Lord Jesus afresh, + a treasuring up wrath unto themselves against the day of wrath*; and that, if + ever they be pardoned, it must be at no lower a rate than the price of his + blood; it were scarce possible but sin, instead of alluring, should affright, + and instead of tempting, scare. It is one of the arch devices and principal + methods of Satan to deceive men into sin: thus he prevailed against our first + parents, not as a lion, but as a serpent, acting his enmity under a pretence of + friendship, and tempting them to evil under an appearance of good; and thus hath + he all along carried on his designs of darkness, by transforming himself into an + angel of light, making poor deceived men in love with their miseries, and hug + their own destruction. A most sovereign antidote against all kind of errors, is + to be grounded and settled in the faith: persons unfixed in the true religion, + are very receptive of a false; and they who are nothing in spiritual knowledge, + are easily made any thing. *Clouds without water are driven to and fro with every + wind*, and ships without ballast liable to the violence of every tempest. But yet + the knowledge we especially commend, is not a brain-knowledge, a mere + speculation; this may be in the worst of men, nay, in the worst of creatures the + devils themselves, and that in such an eminency, as the best of saints cannot + attain to in this life of imperfection; but an inward, a savoury, an heart + knowledge, such as was in that martyr, who, though she could not dispute for + Christ, could die for him. This is that spiritual sense and feeling of divine + truths the Apostle speaks of, Heb. 5:14, *Having your senses exercised*, etc. + + But, alas, we may say of most men’s religion what learned Rivet speaks + concerning the errors of the fathers, "They were not so much their own errors, + as the errors of the times wherein they lived." Thus do most men take up their + religion upon no better an account than Turks and Papists take up theirs, + because it is the religion of the times and places wherein they live; and what + they take up thus slightly, they lay down as easily. Whereas an inward taste and + relish of the things of God, is an excellent preservative to keep us settled in + the most unsettled times. Corrupt and unsavoury principles have great advantage + upon us, above those that are spiritual and sound; the former being suitable to + corrupt nature, the latter contrary; the former springing up of themselves, the + latter brought forth not without a painful industry. The ground needs no other + midwifery in bringing forth weeds than only the neglect of the husbandman’s hand + to pluck them up; the air needs no other cause of darkness than the absence of + the sun; nor water of coldness than its distance from the fire; because these + are the genuine products of nature. Were it so with the soul, (as some of the + philosophers have vainly imagined,) to come into the world as an *abrasa tabula*, + a mere blank or piece of white paper, on which neither any thing is written, nor + any blots, it would then be equally receptive of good and evil, and no more + averse to the one than to the other: but how much worse its condition indeed is, + were scripture silent, every man’s experience does evidently manifest. For who + is there that knows any thing of his own heart. and knows not thus much, that + the suggestions of Satan have so easy and free admittance into our hearts, that + our utmost watchfulness is too little to guard us from them? whereas the motions + of God’s Spirit are so unacceptable to us, that our utmost diligence is too + little to get our hearts open to entertain them. Let therefore the excellency, + necessity, difficulty of true wisdom stir up endeavours in you somewhat + proportionable to such an accomplishment; *Above all getting, get understanding*, + Prov. 4:7; and *search for wisdom as for hidden treasures*, Prov. 2:4. It much + concerns you in respect of yourselves. + + Our *second* advice concerns heads of families, in respect of their + families. Whatever hath been said already, though it concerns every private + Christian that hath a soul to look after; yet, upon a double account, it + concerns parents and masters, as having themselves and others to look after: + some there are, who, because of their ignorance, cannot; others, because of + their sluggishness, will not mind this duty. To the former we propound the + method of Joshua, who first began with himself, and then is careful of his + family. To the latter we shall only hint, what a dreadful meeting those + parents and masters must have at that great day, with their children and + servants, when all that were under their inspection shall not only accuse + them, but charge their eternal miscarrying upon their score. + + Never did any age of the Church enjoy such choice helps as this of ours. Every + age of the gospel hath had its Creeds, Confessions, catechisms, and such + breviaries and models of divinity as have been singularly useful. Such forms + of sound words (however in these days decried) have been in use in the Church + ever since God himself wrote the Decalogue, as a summary of things to be done; + and Christ taught us that prayer of his, as a directory what to + ask. Concerning the usefulness of such compendiary systems, so much hath been + said already by a learned divine of this age, as is sufficient to satisfy + all who are not resolved to remain unsatisfied. + + Concerning the particular excellency of these ensuing treatises, we judge it + unneedful to mention those eminent testimonies which have been given them from + persons of known worth, in respect of their judgment, learning, and integrity, + both at home and abroad, because themselves spake so much their own praise; gold + stands not in need of varnish, nor diamonds of painting: give us leave only to + tell you, that we cannot but account it an eminent mercy to enjoy such helps as + these are. It is ordinary in these days for men to speak evil of things they + know not; but if any are possessed with mean thoughts of these treatises, we + shall only give the same counsel to them that Philip gives Nathanael, *Come and + see*, John 1:46. It is no small advantage the reader now hath, by the addition of + scriptures at large, whereby with little pains he may more profit, because with + every truth he may behold its scripture foundation. And, indeed, considering + what Babel of opinions, what a strange confusion of tongues, there is this day + among them who profess they speak the language of Canaan, there is no + intelligent person but will conclude that advice of the prophet especially + suited to such an age as this, Isa. 8:20, *To the law, and to the testimony; if + they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in + them*. If the reverend and learned composers of these ensuing treatises were + willing to take the pains of annexing scripture proofs to every truth, that the + faith of people might not be built upon the dictates of men, but the authority + of God, so some considerable pains hath now been further taken in transcribing + those scriptures; partly to prevent that grand inconvenience (which all former + impressions, except the Latin, have abounded with, to the great perplexing and + disheartening of the reader,) the misquotation of scripture, the meanest reader + being able, by having the words at large, to rectify whatever mistake may be in + the printer in citing the particular place; partly, to prevent the trouble of + turning to every proof, which could not but be very great; partly, to help the + memories of such who are willing to take the pains of turning to every proof, + but are unable to retain what they read; and partly, that this may serve as a + Bible commonplace, the several passages of scripture, which are scattered up and + down in the word, being in this book reduced to their proper head, and thereby + giving light each to other. The advantages, you see, in this design, are many + and great; the way to spiritual knowledge is hereby made more easy, and the + ignorance of this age more inexcusable. + + If, therefore, there be any spark in you of love to God, be not content that + any of yours should be ignorant of him whom you so much admire, or any haters + of him whom you so much love If there be any compassion to the souls of them + who are under your care, if any regard of your being found faithful in the day + of Christ, if any respect to future generations, labour to sow these seeds of + knowledge, which may grow up in after-times. That you may be faithful herein, + is the earnest prayer of, + + * Henry Wilkinson D.D. A.M.P. + * John Fuller + * George Griffiths + * Matthew Haviland + * Roger Drake. + * James Nalton + * Edward Perkins + * William Blackmore + * William Taylor + * Thomas Goodwin + * Ralph Venning + * Richard Kentish + * Samuel Annesley + * Matthew Pool + * Jeremiah Burwell + * Alexander Pringle + * Thomas Gouge + * William Bates + * Joseph Church + * William Wickins + * Charles Offpring + * John Loder + * Has. Bridges + * Thomas Watson + * Arthur Jackson + * Francis Raworth + * Samuel Smith + * John Jackson + * John Cross + * William Cooper + * Samuel Rowles + * John Seabrooke + * Samuel Clerk + * William Jenkin + * John Glascock + * John Peachie + * Samuel Slater + * Thomas Manton + * Leo. Cooke + * James Jollife + * Willinm Whittaker + * Thomas Jacomb + * John Sheffield + * Obadiah Lee diff --git a/data/westminster/wcf.yaml b/data/westminster/wcf.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..d67296b782768e528d6256f945223b14ce339c6f --- /dev/null +++ b/data/westminster/wcf.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,4036 @@ +--- +name: Westminster Confession of Faith +publication_year: 1646 +type: confession +image: wcf.jpg +recommended_reading: + - wcf-banner +chapters: + - name: Of the Holy Scripture + number: 1 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Although the light of nature, and the works of creation and providence, + do so far manifest the goodness, wisdom, and power of God, as to leave men + inexcusable;[a] yet are they not sufficient to give that knowledge of God, + and of his will, which is necessary unto salvation;[b] therefore it pleased + the Lord, at sundry times, and in divers manners, to reveal himself, and + to declare that his will unto his Church;[c] and afterwards, for the better + preserving and propagating of the truth, and for the more sure establishment + and comfort of the Church against the corruption of the flesh, and the malice + of Satan and of the world, to commit the same wholly unto writing;[d] which + maketh the holy Scripture to be most necessary;[e] those former ways of + God's revealing his will unto his people being now ceased.[f] + verses: + a: + - Ps.19.1-Ps.19.3 + - Rom.1.19-Rom.1.20 + - Rom.1.32 + - Rom.2.1 + - Rom.2.14-Rom.2.15 + b: + - 1Cor.1.21 + - 1Cor.2.13-1Cor.2.14 + c: + - Heb.1.1 + d: + - Prov.22.19-Prov.22.21 + - Isa.8.19-Isa.8.20 + - Matt.4.4 + - Matt.4.7 + - Matt.4.10 + - Luke.1.3-Luke.1.4 + - Rom.15.4 + e: + - 2Tim.3.15 + - 2Pet.1.19 + f: + - Heb.1.1-Heb.1.2 + - number: 2 + text: > + Under the name of holy Scripture, or the Word of God written, are now + contained all the books of the Old and New Testaments, which are + these: Of the Old Testament: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, + Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 Samuel, 2 Samuel, 1 Kings, 2 + Kings, 1 Chronicles, 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Job, + Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, The Song of Songs, Isaiah, Jeremiah, + Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, + Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi; Of the + New Testament: The Gospels according to Matthew, Mark, Luke, John. + The Acts of the Apostles, Paul's Epistles to the Romans, 1 + Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, + Colossians, 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, + Titus, Philemon, The Epistle to the Hebrews, The Epistle of James, The + First and Second Epistles of Peter, The First, Second, and Third + Epistles of John, The Epistle of Jude, The Revelation. All which are + given by inspiration of God, to be the rule of faith and life.[a] + verses: + a: + - Luke.16.29 + - Luke.16.31 + - Eph.2.20 + - 2Tim.3.16 + - Rev.22.18-Rev.22.19 + - number: 3 + text: > + The books commonly called Apocrypha, not being of divine inspiration, are + no part of the Canon of the Scripture; and therefore are of no authority + in the Church of God, nor to be any otherwise approved, or made use of, + than other human writings.[a] + verses: + a: + - Luke.24.27 + - Luke.24.44 + - Rom.3.2 + - 2Pet.1.21 + - number: 4 + text: > + The authority of the holy Scripture, for which it ought to be believed and + obeyed, dependeth not upon the testimony of any man or church, but wholly + upon God (who is truth itself), the Author thereof; and therefore it is + to be received, because it is the Word of God.[a] + verses: + a: + - 1Thess.2.13 + - 2Tim.3.16 + - 2Pet.1.19 + - 2Pet.1.21 + - 1John.5.9 + - number: 5 + text: > + We may be moved and induced by the testimony of the Church to an high and + reverent esteem of the holy Scripture;[a] and the heavenliness of the matter, + the efficacy of the doctrine, the majesty of the style, the consent of all + the parts, the scope of the whole (which is to give all glory to God), the + full discovery it makes of the only way of man's salvation, the many other + incomparable excellencies, and the entire perfection thereof, are arguments + whereby it doth abundantly evidence itself to be the Word of God; yet, notwithstanding, + our full persuasion and assurance of the infallible truth, and divine authority + thereof, is from the inward work of the Holy Spirit, bearing witness by + and with the Word in our hearts.[b] + verses: + a: + - 1Tim.3.15 + b: + - Isa.59.21 + - John.16.13-John.16.14 + - 1Cor.2.10-1Cor.2.12 + - 1John.2.20 + - 1John.2.27 + - number: 6 + text: > + The whole counsel of God, concerning all things necessary for his own glory, + man's salvation, faith, and life, is either expressly set down in Scripture, + or by good and necessary consequence may be deduced from Scripture: unto + which nothing at any time is to be added, whether by new revelations of + the Spirit, or traditions of men.[a] Nevertheless we acknowledge the inward + illumination of the Spirit of God to be necessary for the saving understanding + of such things as are revealed in the Word;[b] and that there are some circumstances + concerning the worship of God, and government of the Church, common to human + actions and societies, which are to be ordered by the light of nature and + Christian prudence, according to the general rules of the Word, which are + always to be observed.[c] + verses: + a: + - Gal.1.8-Gal.1.9 + - 2Thess.2.2 + - 2Tim.3.15-2Tim.3.17 + b: + - John.6.45 + - 1Cor.2.9-1Cor.2.12 + c: + - 1Cor.11.13-1Cor.11.14 + - 1Cor.14.26 + - 1Cor.14.40 + - number: 7 + text: > + All things in Scripture are not alike plain in themselves, nor alike clear + unto all;[a] yet those things which are necessary to be known, believed, + and observed, for salvation, are so clearly propounded and opened in some + place of Scripture or other, that not only the learned, but the unlearned, + in a due use of the ordinary means, may attain unto a sufficient understanding + of them.[b] + verses: + a: + - 2Pet.3.16 + b: + - Ps.119.105 + - Ps.119.130 + - number: 8 + text: > + The Old Testament in Hebrew (which was the native language of the people + of God of old), and the New Testament in Greek (which at the time of the + writing of it was most generally known to the nations), being immediately + inspired by God, and by his singular care and providence kept pure in all + ages, are therefore authentical;[a] so as in all controversies of religion + the Church is finally to appeal unto them.[b] But because these original + tongues are not known to all the people of God who have right unto, and + interest in the Scriptures, and are commanded, in the fear of God, to read + and search them,[c] therefore they are to be translated into the vulgar + language of every nation unto which they come,[d] that the Word of God dwelling + plentifully in all, they may worship him in an acceptable manner,[e] and, + through patience and comfort of the Scriptures, may have hope.[f] + verses: + a: + - Matt.5.18 + b: + - Isa.8.20 + - John.5.39 + - John.5.46 + - Acts.15.15 + c: + - John.5.39 + d: + - 1Cor.14.6 + - 1Cor.14.9 + - 1Cor.14.11-1Cor.14.12 + - 1Cor.14.24 + - 1Cor.14.27-1Cor.14.28 + e: + - Col.3.16 + f: + - Rom.15.4 + - number: 9 + text: > + The infallible rule of interpretation of Scripture is the Scripture itself; + and therefore, when there is a question about the true and full sense of + any scripture (which is not manifold, but one), it must be searched and + known by other places that speak more clearly.[a] + verses: + a: + - Acts.15.15 + - 2Pet.1.20-2Pet.1.21 + - number: 10 + text: > + The Supreme Judge, by which all controversies of religion are to be determined, + and all decrees of councils, opinions of ancient writers, doctrines of men, + and private spirits, are to be examined, and in whose sentence we are to + rest, can be no other but the Holy Spirit speaking in the Scripture.[a] + verses: + a: + - Matt.22.29 + - Matt.22.31 + - Eph.2.20 + - Acts.28.25 + - name: Of God, and of the Holy Trinity + number: 2 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + There is but one only[a] living and true God,[b] who is infinite in being + and perfection,[c] a most pure spirit,[d] invisible,[e] without body, parts,[f] + or passions,[g] immutable,[h] immense,[i] eternal,[k] incomprehensible,[l] + almighty,[m] most wise,[n] most holy,[o] most free,[p] most absolute,[q] + working all things according to the counsel of his own immutable and most + righteous will,[r] for his own glory;[s] most loving,[t] gracious, merciful, + long-suffering, abundant in goodness and truth, forgiving iniquity, transgression, + and sin;[u] the rewarder of them that diligently seek him;[w] and withal + most just and terrible in his judgments;[x] hating all sin,[y] and who will + by no means clear the guilty.[z] + verses: + a: + - Deut.6.4 + - 1Cor.8.4 + - 1Cor.8.6 + b: + - Jer.10.10 + - 1Thess.1.9 + c: + - Job.11.7-Job.11.9 + - Job.26.14 + d: + - John.4.24 + e: + - 1Tim.1.17 + f: + - Deut.4.15-Deut.4.16 + - John.4.24 + - Luke.24.39 + g: + - Acts.14.11 + - Acts.14.15 + h: + - Mal.3.6 + - Jas.1.17 + i: + - 1Kgs.8.27 + - Jer.23.23-Jer.23.24 + k: + - Ps.90.2 + - 1Tim.1.17 + l: + - Ps.145.3 + m: + - Gen.17.1 + - Rev.4.8 + n: + - Rom.16.27 + o: + - Isa.6.3 + - Rev.4.8 + p: + - Ps.115.3 + q: + - Exod.3.14 + r: + - Eph.1.11 + s: + - Prov.16.4 + - Rom.11.36 + t: + - 1John.4.8 + - 1John.4.16 + u: + - Exod.34.6-Exod.34.7 + w: + - Heb.11.6 + x: + - Neh.9.32-Neh.9.33 + y: + - Ps.5.5-Ps.5.6 + z: + - Exod.34.7 + - Nah.1.2-Nah.1.3 + - number: 2 + text: > + God hath all life,[a] glory,[b] goodness,[c] blessedness,[d] in and of himself; + and is alone in and unto himself all-sufficient, not standing in need of + any creatures which he hath made,[e] nor deriving any glory from them,[f] + but only manifesting his own glory in, by, unto, and upon them: he is the + alone fountain of all being, of whom, through whom, and to whom are all + things;[g] and hath most sovereign dominion over them, to do by them, for + them, or upon them whatsoever himself pleaseth.[h] In his sight all things + are open and manifest;[i] his knowledge is infinite, infallible, and independent + upon the creature;[k] so as nothing is to him contingent or uncertain.[l] + He is most holy in all his counsels, in all his works, and in all his commands.[m] + To him is due from angels and men, and every other creature, whatsoever + worship, service, or obedience, he is pleased to require of them.[n] + verses: + a: + - John.5.26 + b: + - Acts.7.2 + c: + - Ps.119.68 + d: + - Rom.9.5 + - 1Tim.6.15 + e: + - Acts.17.24-Acts.17.25 + f: + - Job.22.2-Job.22.3 + g: + - Rom.11.36 + h: + - Dan.4.25 + - Dan.4.35 + - 1Tim.6.15 + - Rev.4.11 + i: + - Heb.4.13 + k: + - Ps.147.5 + - Rom.11.33-Rom.11.34 + l: + - Ezek.11.5 + - Acts.15.18 + m: + - Ps.145.17 + - Rom.7.12 + n: + - Rev.5.12-Rev.5.14 + - number: 3 + text: > + In the unity of the Godhead there be three persons, of one substance, power, + and eternity: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost.[a] The + Father is of none, neither begotten nor proceeding; the Son is eternally + begotten of the Father;[b] the Holy Ghost eternally proceeding from the + Father and the Son.[c] + verses: + a: + - Matt.3.16-Matt.3.17 + - Matt.28.19 + - 2Cor.13.14 + - 1John.5.7 + b: + - John.1.14 + - John.1.18 + c: + - John.15.26 + - Gal.4.6 + - name: Of God's Eternal Decree + number: 3 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + God from all eternity did, by the most wise and holy counsel of his own + will, freely and unchangeably ordain whatsoever comes to pass;[a] yet so + as thereby neither is God the author of sin,[b] nor is violence offered + to the will of the creatures, nor is the liberty or contingency of second + causes taken away, but rather established.[c] + verses: + a: + - Rom.9.15 + - Rom.9.18 + - Rom.11.33 + - Eph.1.11 + - Heb.6.17 + b: + - Jas.1.13 + - Jas.1.17 + - 1John.1.5 + c: + - Prov.16.33 + - Matt.17.12 + - John.19.11 + - Acts.2.23 + - Acts.4.27-Acts.4.28 + - number: 2 + text: > + Although God knows whatsoever may or can come to pass upon all supposed + conditions,[a] yet hath he not decreed anything because he foresaw it as + future, or as that which would come to pass upon such conditions.[b] + verses: + a: + - 1Sam.23.11-1Sam.23.12 + - Matt.11.21 + - Matt.11.23 + - Acts.15.18 + b: + - Rom.9.11 + - Rom.9.13 + - Rom.9.16 + - Rom.9.18 + - number: 3 + text: > + By the decree of God, for the manifestation of his glory, some men and angels[a] + are predestinated unto everlasting life, and others fore-ordained to everlasting + death.[b] + verses: + a: + - Matt.25.41 + - 1Tim.5.21 + b: + - Prov.16.4 + - Rom.9.22-Rom.9.23 + - Eph.1.5-Eph.1.6 + - number: 4 + text: > + These angels and men, thus predestinated and fore-ordained, are particularly + and unchangeably designed; and their number is so certain and definite that + it can not be either increased or diminished.[a] + verses: + a: + - John.13.18 + - 2Tim.2.19 + - number: 5 + text: > + Those of mankind that are predestinated unto life, God, before the foundation + of the world was laid, according to his eternal and immutable purpose, and + the secret counsel and good pleasure of his will, hath chosen in Christ, + unto everlasting glory,[a] out of his mere free grace and love, without + any foresight of faith or good works, or perseverance in either of them, + or any other thing in the creature, as conditions, or causes moving him + thereunto;[b] and all to the praise of his glorious grace.[c] + verses: + a: + - Rom.8.30 + - Eph.1.4 + - Eph.1.9 + - Eph.1.11 + - 1Thess.5.9 + - 2Tim.1.9 + b: + - Rom.9.11 + - Rom.9.13 + - Rom.9.16 + - Eph.1.4 + - Eph.1.9 + c: + - Eph.1.6 + - Eph.1.12 + - number: 6 + text: > + As God hath appointed the elect unto glory, so hath he, by the eternal and + most free purpose of his will, fore-ordained all the means thereunto.[a] + Wherefore they who are elected, being fallen in Adam, are redeemed by Christ,[b] + are effectually called unto faith in Christ by his Spirit working in due + season; are justified, adopted, sanctified,[c] and kept by his power through + faith unto salvation.[d] Neither are any other redeemed by Christ, effectually + called, justified, adopted, sanctified, and saved, but the elect only.[e] + verses: + a: + - Eph.1.4-Eph.1.5 + - Eph.2.10 + - 2Thess.2.13 + - 1Pet.1.2 + b: + - 1Thess.5.9-1Thess.5.10 + - Titus.2.14 + c: + - Rom.8.30 + - Eph.1.5 + - 2Thess.2.13 + d: + - 1Pet.1.5 + e: + - John.6.64-John.6.65 + - John.8.47 + - John.10.26 + - John.17.9 + - Rom.8.28-Rom.8.39 + - 1John.2.19 + - number: 7 + text: > + The rest of mankind God was pleased, according to the unsearchable counsel + of his own will, whereby he extendeth or withholdeth mercy as he pleaseth, + for the glory of his sovereign power over his creatures, to pass by, and + to ordain them to dishonor and wrath for their sin, to the praise of his + glorious justice.[a] + verses: + a: + - Matt.11.25-Matt.11.26 + - Rom.9.17-Rom.9.18 + - Rom.9.21-Rom.9.22 + - 2Tim.2.19-2Tim.2.20 + - 1Pet.2.8 + - Jude.1.4 + - number: 8 + text: > + The doctrine of this high mystery of predestination is to be handled with + special prudence and care,[a] that men attending the will of God revealed + in his Word, and yielding obedience thereunto, may, from the certainty of + their effectual vocation, be assured of their eternal election.[b] So shall + this doctrine afford matter of praise, reverence, and admiration of God;[c] + and of humility, diligence, and abundant consolation to all that sincerely + obey the gospel.[d] + verses: + a: + - Deut.29.29 + - Rom.9.20 + b: + - 2Pet.1.10 + c: + - Rom.11.33 + - Eph.1.6 + d: + - Luke.10.20 + - Rom.8.33 + - Rom.11.5-Rom.11.6 + - Rom.11.20 + - 2Pet.1.10 + - name: Of Creation + number: 4 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + It pleased God the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,[a] for the manifestation + of the glory of his eternal power, wisdom, and goodness,[b] in the beginning, + to create or make of nothing the world, and all things therein, whether + visible or invisible, in the space of six days, and all very good.[c] + verses: + a: + - Gen.1.2 + - Job.26.13 + - Job.33.4 + - John.1.2-John.1.3 + - Heb.1.2 + b: + - Ps.33.5-Ps.33.6 + - Ps.104.24 + - Jer.10.12 + - Rom.1.20 + c: + - Gen.1 + - Acts.17.24 + - Col.1.16 + - Heb.11.3 + - number: 2 + text: > + After God had made all other creatures, he created man, male and female,[a] + with reasonable and immortal souls,[b] endued with knowledge, righteousness, + and true holiness, after his own image,[c] having the law of God written + in their hearts,[d] and power to fulfil it;[e] and yet under a possibility + of transgressing, being left to the liberty of their own will, which was + subject unto change.[f] Beside this law written in their hearts, they received + a command not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil;[g] which + while they kept they were happy in their communion with God, and had dominion + over the creatures.[h] + verses: + a: + - Gen.1.27 + b: + - Gen.2.7 + - Eccl.12.7 + - Matt.10.28 + - Luke.23.43 + c: + - Gen.1.26 + - Eph.4.24 + - Col.3.10 + d: + - Rom.2.14-Rom.2.15 + e: + - Eccl.7.29 + f: + - Gen.3.6 + - Eccl.7.29 + g: + - Gen.2.17 + - Gen.3.8-Gen.3.11 + - Gen.3.23 + h: + - Gen.1.26 + - Gen.1.28 + - name: Of Providence + number: 5 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + God, the great Creator of all things, doth uphold,[a] direct, dispose, and + govern all creatures, actions, and things,[b] from the greatest even to + the least,[c] by his most wise and holy providence,[d] according to his + infallible fore-knowledge[e] and the free and immutable counsel of his own + will,[f] to the praise of the glory of his wisdom, power, justice, goodness, + and mercy.[g] + verses: + a: + - Heb.1.3 + b: + - Ps.135.6 + - Dan.4.34-Dan.4.35 + - Acts.17.25-Acts.17.26 + - Acts.17.28 + - Job.38-Job.41 + c: + - Matt.10.29-Matt.10.31 + d: + - Ps.104.24 + - Ps.145.17 + - Prov.15.3 + e: + - Ps.94.8-Ps.94.11 + - Acts.15.18 + f: + - Ps.33.10-Ps.33.11 + - Eph.1.11 + g: + - Gen.45.7 + - Ps.145.7 + - Isa.63.14 + - Rom.9.17 + - Eph.3.10 + - number: 2 + text: > + Although in relation to the foreknowledge and decree of God, the first cause, + all things come to pass immutably and infallibly,[a] yet by the same providence + he ordereth them to fall out, according to the nature of second causes, + either necessarily, freely, or contingently.[b] + verses: + a: + - Acts.2.23 + b: + - Gen.8.22 + - Exod.21.13 + - Deut.19.5 + - 1Kgs.22.28 + - 1Kgs.22.34 + - Isa.10.6-Isa.10.7 + - Jer.31.35 + - number: 3 + text: > + God, in his ordinary providence, maketh use of means,[a] yet is free to + work without,[b] above,[c] and against them,[d] at his pleasure. + verses: + a: + - Isa.55.10-Isa.55.11 + - Hos.2.21-Hos.2.22 + - Acts.27.31 + - Acts.27.44 + b: + - Job.34.10 + - Hos.1.7 + - Matt.4.4 + c: + - Rom.4.19-Rom.4.21 + d: + - 2Kgs.6.6 + - Dan.3.27 + - number: 4 + text: > + The almighty power, unsearchable wisdom, and infinite goodness of God so + far manifest themselves in his providence that it extendeth itself even + to the first fall, and all other sins of angels and men,[a] and that not + by a bare permission,[b] but such as hath joined with it a most wise and + powerful bounding,[c] and otherwise ordering and governing of them, in a + manifold dispensation, to his own holy ends;[d] yet so as the sinfulness + thereof proceedeth only from the creature, and not from God; who, being + most holy and righteous, neither is nor can be the author or approver of + sin.[e] + verses: + a: + - 2Sam.16.10 + - 2Sam.24.1 + - 1Chr.21.1 + - 1Kgs.22.22-1Kgs.22.23 + - 1Chr.10.4 + - 1Chr.10.13-1Chr.10.14 + - Acts.2.23 + - Acts.4.27-Acts.4.28 + - Rom.11.32-Rom.11.34 + b: + - Acts.14.16 + c: + - 2Kgs.19.28 + - Ps.76.10 + d: + - Gen.50.20 + - Isa.10.6-Isa.10.7 + - Isa.10.12 + e: + - Ps.50.21 + - Jas.1.13-Jas.1.14 + - Jas.1.17 + - 1John.2.16 + - number: 5 + text: > + The most wise, righteous, and gracious God doth oftentimes leave for a season + his own children to manifold temptations and the corruption of their own + hearts, to chastise them for their former sins, or to discover unto them + the hidden strength of corruption and deceitfulness of their hearts, that + they be humbled;[a] and to raise them to a more close and constant dependence + for their support unto himself, and to make them more watchful against all + future occasions of sin, and for sundry other just and holy ends.[b] + verses: + a: + - 2Sam.24.1 + - 2Chr.32.25-2Chr.32.26 + - 2Chr.32.31 + b: + - Ps.73 + - Ps.77.1-Ps.77.10 + - Ps.77.12 + - Mark.14.66-Mark.14.72 + - John.21.15-John.21.17 + - 2Cor.12.7-2Cor.12.9 + - number: 6 + text: > + As for those wicked and ungodly men whom God, as a righteous judge, for + former sins, doth blind and harden,[a] from them he not only withholdeth + his grace, whereby they might have been enlightened in their understandings + and wrought upon in their hearts,[b] but sometimes also withdraweth the + gifts which they had,[c] and exposeth them to such objects as their corruption + makes occasion of sin;[d] and withal, gives them over to their own lusts, + the temptations of the world, and the power of Satan;[e] whereby it comes + to pass that they harden themselves, even under those means which God useth + for the softening of others.[f] + verses: + a: + - Rom.1.24 + - Rom.1.26 + - Rom.1.28 + - Rom.11.7-Rom.11.8 + b: + - Deut.29.4 + c: + - Matt.13.12 + - Matt.25.29 + d: + - Deut.2.30 + - 2Kgs.8.12-2Kgs.8.13 + e: + - Ps.81.11-Ps.81.12 + - 2Thess.2.10-2Thess.2.12 + f: + - Exod.7.3 + - Exod.8.15 + - Exod.8.32 + - Isa.6.9-Isa.6.10 + - Acts.28.26-Acts.28.27 + - Isa.8.14 + - 2Cor.2.15-2Cor.2.16 + - 1Pet.2.7-1Pet.2.8 + - number: 7 + text: > + As the providence of God doth, in general, reach to all creatures, so, after + a most special manner, it taketh care of his Church, and disposeth all things + to the good thereof.[a] + verses: + a: + - Isa.43.3-Isa.43.5 + - Isa.43.14 + - Amos.9.8-Amos.9.9 + - Rom.8.28 + - 1Tim.4.10 + - name: Of the Fall of Man, of Sin, and of the Punishment Thereof + number: 6 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Our first parents, being seduced by the subtlety and temptation of Satan, + sinned in eating the forbidden fruit.[a] This their sin God was pleased, + according to his wise and holy counsel, to permit, having purposed to order + it to his own glory.[b] + verses: + a: + - Gen.3.13 + - 2Cor.11.3 + b: + - Rom.11.32 + - number: 2 + text: > + By this sin they fell from their original righteousness and communion with + God,[a] and so became dead in sin,[b] and wholly defiled in all the faculties + and parts of soul and body.[c] + verses: + a: + - Gen.3.6-Gen.3.8 + - Eccl.7.29 + - Rom.3.23 + b: + - Gen.2.17 + - Eph.2.1 + c: + - Gen.6.5 + - Jer.17.9 + - Rom.3.10-Rom.3.19 + - Titus.1.15 + - number: 3 + text: > + They being the root of all mankind, the guilt of this sin was imputed,[a] + and the same death in sin and corrupted nature conveyed to all their posterity + descending from them by ordinary generation.[b] + verses: + a: + - Gen.1.27-Gen.1.28 + - Gen.2.16-Gen.2.17 + - Acts.17.26 + - Rom.5.12 + - Rom.5.15-Rom.5.19 + - 1Cor.15.21-1Cor.15.22 + - 1Cor.15.45 + - 1Cor.15.49 + b: + - Gen.5.3 + - Job.14.4 + - Job.15.14 + - Ps.51.5 + - number: 4 + text: > + From this original corruption, whereby we are utterly indisposed, disabled, + and made opposite to all good,[a] and wholly inclined to all evil,[b] do + proceed all actual transgressions.[c] + verses: + a: + - Rom.5.6 + - Rom.7.18 + - Rom.8.7 + - Col.1.21 + b: + - Gen.6.5 + - Gen.8.21 + - Rom.3.10-Rom.3.12 + c: + - Matt.15.19 + - Eph.2.2-Eph.2.3 + - Jas.1.14-Jas.1.15 + - number: 5 + text: > + This corruption of nature, during this life, doth remain in those that are + regenerated;[a] and although it be through Christ pardoned and mortified, + yet both itself and all the motions thereof are truly and properly sin.[b] + verses: + a: + - Prov.20.9 + - Eccl.7.20 + - Rom.7.14 + - Rom.7.17-Rom.7.18 + - Rom.7.23 + - Jas.3.2 + - 1John.1.8 + - 1John.1.10 + b: + - Rom.7.5 + - Rom.7.7-Rom.7.8 + - Rom.7.25 + - Gal.5.17 + - number: 6 + text: > + Every sin, both original and actual, being a transgression of the righteous + law of God, and contrary thereunto,[a] doth, in its own nature, bring guilt + upon the sinner,[b] whereby he is bound over to the wrath of God[c] and + curse of the law,[d] and so made subject to death,[e] with all miseries + spiritual,[f] temporal,[g] and eternal.[h] + verses: + a: + - 1John.3.4 + b: + - Rom.2.15 + - Rom.3.9 + - Rom.3.19 + c: + - Eph.2.3 + d: + - Gal.3.10 + e: + - Rom.6.23 + f: + - Eph.4.18 + g: + - Lam.3.39 + - Rom.8.20 + h: + - Matt.25.41 + - 2Thess.1.9 + - name: Of God's Covenant with Man + number: 7 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + The distance between God and the creature is so great that although reasonable + creatures do owe obedience unto him as their Creator, yet they could never + have any fruition of him as their blessedness and reward but by some voluntary + condescension on God's part, which he hath been pleased to express by way + of covenant.[a] + verses: + a: + - 1Sam.2.25 + - Job.9.32-Job.9.33 + - Job.22.2-Job.22.3 + - Job.35.7-Job.35.8 + - Ps.100.2-Ps.100.3 + - Ps.113.5-Ps.113.6 + - Isa.40.13-Isa.40.17 + - Luke.17.10 + - Acts.17.24-Acts.17.25 + - number: 2 + text: > + The first covenant made with man was a covenant of works,[a] wherein life + was promised to Adam, and in him to his posterity,[b] upon condition of + perfect and personal obedience.[c] + verses: + a: + - Gal.3.12 + b: + - Rom.5.12-Rom.5.20 + - Rom.10.5 + c: + - Gen.2.17 + - Gal.3.10 + - number: 3 + text: > + Man by his fall having made himself incapable of life by that covenant, + the Lord was pleased to make a second,[a] commonly called the covenant of + grace: wherein he freely offered unto sinners life and salvation by Jesus + Christ, requiring of them faith in him that they may be saved,[b] and promising + to give unto all those that are ordained unto life his Holy Spirit, to make + them willing and able to believe.[c] + verses: + a: + - Gen.3.15 + - Isa.42.6 + - Rom.3.20-Rom.3.21 + - Rom.8.3 + - Gal.3.21 + b: + - Mark.16.15-Mark.16.16 + - John.3.16 + - Rom.10.6 + - Rom.10.9 + - Gal.3.11 + c: + - Ezek.36.26-Ezek.36.27 + - John.6.44-John.6.45 + - number: 4 + text: > + This covenant of grace is frequently set forth in the Scripture by the name + of a testament, in reference to the death of Jesus Christ the testator, + and to the everlasting inheritance, with all things belonging to it, therein + bequeathed.[a] + verses: + a: + - Luke.22.20 + - 1Cor.11.25 + - Heb.7.22 + - Heb.9.15-Heb.9.17 + - number: 5 + text: > + This covenant was differently administered in the time of the law and in + the time of the gospel:[a] under the law it was administered by promises, + prophecies, sacrifices, circumcision, the paschal lamb, and other types + and ordinances delivered to the people of the Jews, all fore-signifying + Christ to come,[b] which were for that time sufficient and efficacious, + through the operation of the Spirit, to instruct and build up the elect + in faith in the promised Messiah,[c] by whom they had full remission of + sins and eternal salvation; and is called the Old Testament.[d] + verses: + a: + - 2Cor.3.6-2Cor.3.9 + b: + - Rom.4.11 + - Col.2.11-Col.2.12 + - 1Cor.5.7 + - Heb.8-Heb.10 + c: + - John.8.56 + - 1Cor.10.1-1Cor.10.4 + - Heb.11.13 + d: + - Gal.3.7-Gal.3.9 + - Gal.3.14 + - number: 6 + text: > + Under the gospel, when Christ the substance[a] was exhibited, the ordinances + in which this covenant is dispensed are the preaching of the Word and the + administration of the sacraments of Baptism and the Lord's Supper;[b] which, + though fewer in number, and administered with more simplicity and less outward + glory, yet in them it is held forth in more fulness, evidence, and spiritual + efficacy,[c] to all nations, both Jews and Gentiles;[d] and is called the + New Testament.[e] There are not, therefore, two covenants of grace differing + in substance, but one and the same under various dispensations.[f] + verses: + a: + - Col.2.17 + b: + - Matt.28.19-Matt.28.20 + - 1Cor.11.23-1Cor.11.25 + c: + - Jer.31.33-Jer.31.34 + - Heb.12.22-Heb.12.28 + d: + - Matt.28.19 + - Eph.2.15-Eph.2.19 + e: + - Luke.22.20 + f: + - Ps.32.1 + - Rom.4.3 + - Acts.15.11 + - Rom.3.21-Rom.3.23 + - Rom.3.30 + - Rom.4.6 + - Rom.4.16-Rom.4.17 + - Rom.4.23-Rom.4.24 + - Gal.3.14 + - Gal.3.16 + - Heb.13.8 + - name: Of Christ the Mediator + number: 8 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + It pleased God, in his eternal purpose, to choose and ordain the Lord Jesus, + his only-begotten Son, to be the Mediator between God and man,[a] the Prophet,[b] + Priest,[c] and King;[d] the Head and Saviour of his Church,[e] the Heir + of all things,[f] and Judge of the world;[g] unto whom he did, from all + eternity, give a people to be his seed,[h] and to be by him in time redeemed, + called, justified, sanctified, and glorified.[i] + verses: + a: + - Isa.42.1 + - John.3.16 + - 2Tim.2.5 + - 1Pet.1.19-1Pet.1.20 + b: + - Acts.3.22 + c: + - Heb.5.5-Heb.5.6 + d: + - Ps.2.6 + - Luke.1.33 + e: + - Eph.5.23 + f: + - Heb.1.2 + g: + - Acts.17.31 + h: + - Ps.22.30 + - Isa.53.10 + - John.17.6 + i: + - Isa.55.4-Isa.55.5 + - 1Cor.1.30 + - 1Tim.2.6 + - number: 2 + text: > + The Son of God, the second person in the Trinity, being very and eternal + God, of one substance, and equal with the Father, did, when the fulness + of time was come, take upon him man's nature,[a] with all the essential + properties and common infirmities thereof, yet without sin:[b] being conceived + by the power of the Holy Ghost in the womb of the Virgin Mary, of her substance.[c] + So that two whole, perfect, and distinct natures, the Godhead and the manhood, + were inseparably joined together in one person, without conversion, composition, + or confusion.[d] Which person is very God and very man, yet one Christ, + the only mediator between God and man.[e] + verses: + a: + - John.1.1 + - John.1.14 + - Gal.4.4 + - Phil.2.6 + - 1John.5.20 + b: + - Heb.2.14 + - Heb.2.16-Heb.2.17 + - Heb.4.15 + c: + - Luke.1.27 + - Luke.1.31 + - Luke.1.35 + - Gal.4.4 + d: + - Luke.1.35 + - Rom.9.5 + - Col.2.9 + - 1Tim.3.16 + - 1Pet.3.18 + e: + - Rom.1.3-Rom.1.4 + - 1Tim.2.5 + - number: 3 + text: > + The Lord Jesus, in his human nature thus united to the divine, was sanctified + and anointed with the Holy Spirit above measure;[a] having in him all the + treasures of wisdom and knowledge,[b] in whom it pleased the Father that + all fulness should dwell;[c] to the end that, being holy, harmless, undefiled, + and full of grace and truth,[d] he might be thoroughly furnished to execute + the office of a mediator and surety.[e] Which office he took not unto himself, + but was thereunto called by his Father,[f] who put all power and judgment + into his hand, and gave him commandment to execute the same.[g] + verses: + a: + - Ps.45.7 + - John.3.34 + b: + - Col.2.3 + c: + - Col.1.19 + d: + - John.1.14 + - Heb.7.26 + e: + - Acts.10.38 + - Heb.7.22 + - Heb.12.24 + f: + - Heb.5.4-Heb.5.5 + g: + - Matt.28.18 + - John.5.22 + - John.5.27 + - Acts.2.36 + - number: 4 + text: > + This office the Lord Jesus did most willingly undertake,[a] which, that + he might discharge, he was made under the law,[b] and did perfectly fulfill + it;[c] endured most grievous torments immediately in his soul,[d] and most + painful sufferings in his body;[e] was crucified, and died;[f] was buried, + and remained under the power of death, yet saw no corruption.[g] On the + third day he arose from the dead,[h] with the same body in which he suffered;[i] + with which also he ascended into heaven, and there sitteth at the right + hand of his Father,[k] making intercession;[l] and shall return to judge + men and angels at the end of the world.[m] + verses: + a: + - Ps.40.7-Ps.40.8 + - Heb.10.5-Heb.10.10 + - John.10.18 + - Phil.2.8 + b: + - Gal.4.4 + c: + - Matt.3.15 + - Matt.5.17 + d: + - Matt.26.37-Matt.26.38 + - Matt.27.46 + - Luke.22.44 + e: + - Matt.26-Matt.27 + f: + - Phil.2.8 + g: + - Acts.2.23-Acts.2.24 + - Acts.2.27 + - Acts.13.37 + - Rom.6.9 + h: + - 1Cor.15.3-1Cor.15.4 + i: + - John.20.25 + - John.20.27 + k: + - Mark.16.19 + l: + - Rom.8.34 + - Heb.7.25 + - Heb.9.24 + m: + - Matt.13.40-Matt.13.42 + - Acts.1.11 + - Acts.10.42 + - Rom.14.9-Rom.14.10 + - 2Pet.2.4 + - Jude.1.6 + - number: 5 + text: > + The Lord Jesus, by his perfect obedience and sacrifice of himself, which + he through the eternal Spirit once offered up unto God, hath fully satisfied + the justice of his Father,[a] and purchased not only reconciliation, but + an everlasting inheritance in the kingdom of heaven, for all those whom + the Father hath given unto him.[b] + verses: + a: + - Rom.3.25-Rom.3.26 + - Rom.5.19 + - Eph.5.2 + - Heb.9.14 + - Heb.9.16 + - Heb.10.14 + b: + - Dan.9.24 + - Dan.9.26 + - John.17.2 + - Eph.1.11 + - Eph.1.14 + - Col.1.19-Col.1.20 + - Heb.9.12 + - Heb.9.15 + - number: 6 + text: > + Although the work of redemption was not actually wrought by Christ till + after his incarnation, yet the virtue, efficacy, and benefits thereof were + communicated unto the elect, in all ages successively from the beginning + of the world, in and by those promises, types, and sacrifices, wherein he + was revealed, and signified to be the seed of the woman which should bruise + the serpent's head, and the Lamb slain from the beginning of the world, + being yesterday and today the same, and forever.[a] + verses: + a: + - Gen.3.15 + - Gal.4.4-Gal.4.5 + - Heb.13.8 + - Rev.13.8 + - number: 7 + text: > + Christ, in the work of mediation, acteth according to both natures; by each + nature doing that which is proper to itself;[a] yet, by reason of the unity + of the person, that which is proper to one nature is sometimes, in Scripture, + attributed to the person denominated by the other nature.[b] + verses: + a: + - Heb.9.14 + - 1Pet.3.18 + b: + - John.3.13 + - Acts.20.28 + - 1John.3.16 + - number: 8 + text: > + To all those for whom Christ hath purchased redemption he doth certainly + and effectually apply and communicate the same;[a] making intercession for + them,[b] and revealing unto them, in and by the Word, the mysteries of salvation;[c] + effectually persuading them by his Spirit to believe and obey; and governing + their hearts by his Word and Spirit;[d] overcoming all their enemies by + his almighty power and wisdom, in such manner and ways as are most consonant + to his wonderful and unsearchable dispensation.[e] + verses: + a: + - John.6.37 + - John.6.39 + - John.10.15-John.10.16 + b: + - Rom.8.34 + - 1John.2.1-1John.2.2 + c: + - John.15.13 + - John.15.15 + - John.17.6 + - Eph.1.7-Eph.1.9 + d: + - John.14.16 + - John.17.17 + - Rom.8.9 + - Rom.8.14 + - Rom.15.18-Rom.15.19 + - 2Cor.4.13 + - Heb.12.2 + e: + - Ps.110.1 + - Mal.4.2-Mal.4.3 + - 1Cor.15.25-1Cor.15.26 + - Col.2.15 + - name: Of Free Will + number: 9 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + God hath endued the will of man with that natural liberty, that is neither + forced nor by any absolute necessity of nature determined to good or evil.[a] + verses: + a: + - Deut.30.19 + - Matt.17.12 + - Jas.1.14 + - number: 2 + text: > + Man, in his state of innocency, had freedom and power to will and to do + that which is good and well-pleasing to God,[a] but yet mutably, so that + he might fall from it.[b] + verses: + a: + - Gen.1.26 + - Eccl.7.29 + b: + - Gen.2.16-Gen.2.17 + - Gen.3.6 + - number: 3 + text: > + Man, by his fall into a state of sin, hath wholly lost all ability of will + to any spiritual good accompanying salvation;[a] so as a natural man, being + altogether averse from that good,[b] and dead in sin,[c] is not able, by + his own strength, to convert himself, or to prepare himself thereunto.[d] + verses: + a: + - John.15.5 + - Rom.5.6 + - Rom.8.7 + b: + - Rom.3.10 + - Rom.3.12 + c: + - Eph.2.1 + - Eph.2.5 + - Col.2.13 + d: + - John.6.44 + - John.6.65 + - 1Cor.2.14 + - Eph.2.2-Eph.2.5 + - Titus.3.3-Titus.3.5 + - number: 4 + text: > + When God converts a sinner, and translates him into the state of grace, + he freeth him from his natural bondage under sin,[a] and by his grace alone + enables him freely to will and to do that which is spiritually good;[b] + yet so as that, by reason of his remaining corruption, he doth not perfectly, + nor only, will that which is good, but doth also will that which is evil.[c] + verses: + a: + - John.8.34 + - John.8.36 + - Col.1.13 + b: + - Rom.6.18 + - Rom.6.22 + - Phil.2.13 + c: + - Rom.7.15 + - Rom.7.18-Rom.7.19 + - Rom.7.21 + - Rom.7.23 + - Gal.5.17 + - number: 5 + text: > + The will of man is made perfectly and immutably free to good alone, in the + state of glory only.[a] + verses: + a: + - Eph.4.13 + - Heb.12.23 + - 1John.3.2 + - Jude.1.24 + - name: Of Effectual Calling + number: 10 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + All those whom God hath predestinated unto life, and those only, he is pleased, + in his appointed and accepted time, effectually to call,[a] by his Word + and Spirit,[b] out of that state of sin and death, in which they are by + nature, to grace and salvation by Jesus Christ;[c] enlightening their minds, + spiritually and savingly, to understand the things of God;[d] taking away + their heart of stone, and giving unto them an heart of flesh;[e] renewing + their wills, and by his almighty power determining them to that which is + good,[f] and effectually drawing them to Jesus Christ;[g] yet so as they + come most freely, being made willing by his grace.[h] + verses: + a: + - Rom.8.30 + - Rom.11.7 + - Eph.1.10-Eph.1.11 + b: + - 2Cor.3.3 + - 2Cor.3.6 + - 2Thess.2.13-2Thess.2.14 + c: + - Rom.8.2 + - Eph.2.1-Eph.2.5 + - 2Tim.1.9-2Tim.1.10 + d: + - Acts.26.18 + - 1Cor.2.10 + - 1Cor.2.12 + - Eph.1.17-Eph.1.18 + e: + - Ezek.36.26 + f: + - Deut.30.6 + - Ezek.11.19 + - Ezek.36.27 + - Phil.2.13 + g: + - John.6.44-John.6.45 + - Eph.1.19 + h: + - Ps.110.3 + - Song.1.4 + - John.6.37 + - Rom.6.16-Rom.6.18 + - number: 2 + text: > + This effectual call is of God's free and special grace alone, not from anything + at all foreseen in man;[a] who is altogether passive therein, until, being + quickened and renewed by the Holy Spirit,[b] he is thereby enabled to answer + this call, and to embrace the grace offered and conveyed in it.[c] + verses: + a: + - Rom.9.11 + - Eph.2.4-Eph.2.5 + - Eph.2.8-Eph.2.9 + - 2Tim.1.9 + - Titus.3.4-Titus.3.5 + b: + - Rom.8.7 + - 1Cor.2.14 + - Eph.2.5 + c: + - Ezek.36.27 + - John.5.25 + - John.6.37 + - number: 3 + text: > + Elect infants, dying in infancy, are regenerated and saved by Christ through + the Spirit,[a] who worketh when, and where, and how he pleaseth.[b] So also + are all other elect persons who are incapable of being outwardly called + by the ministry of the Word.[c] + verses: + a: + - Luke.18.15-Luke.18.16 + - John.3.3 + - John.3.5 + - Acts.2.38-Acts.2.39 + - Rom.8.9 + - 1John.5.12 + b: + - John.3.8 + c: + - Acts.4.12 + - 1John.5.12 + - number: 4 + text: > + Others, not elected, although they may be called by the ministry of the + Word,[a] and may have some common operations of the Spirit,[b] yet they + never truly come unto Christ, and therefore cannot be saved:[c] much less + can men, not professing the Christian religion, be saved in any other way + whatsoever, be they never so diligent to frame their lives according to + the light of nature and the law of that religion they do profess;[d] and + to assert and maintain that they may is very pernicious, and to be detested.[e] + verses: + a: + - Matt.22.14 + b: + - Matt.7.22 + - Matt.13.20-Matt.13.21 + - Heb.6.4-Heb.6.5 + c: + - John.6.64-John.6.66 + - John.8.24 + d: + - John.4.22 + - John.14.6 + - John.17.3 + - Acts.4.12 + - Eph.2.12 + e: + - 1Cor.16.22 + - Gal.1.6-Gal.1.8 + - 2John.1.9-2John.1.11 + - name: Of Justification + number: 11 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Those whom God effectually calleth he also freely justifieth;[a] not by + infusing righteousness into them, but by pardoning their sins, and by accounting + and accepting their persons as righteous: not for anything wrought in them, + or done by them, but for Christ's sake alone; nor by imputing faith itself, + the act of believing, or any other evangelical obedience to them, as their + righteousness; but by imputing the obedience and satisfaction of Christ + unto them,[b] they receiving and resting on him and his righteousness by + faith; which faith they have not of themselves, it is the gift of God.[c] + verses: + a: + - Rom.3.24 + - Rom.8.30 + b: + - Jer.23.6 + - Rom.3.22 + - Rom.3.24-Rom.3.25 + - Rom.3.27-Rom.3.28 + - Rom.4.5-Rom.4.8 + - Rom.5.17-Rom.5.19 + - 1Cor.1.30-1Cor.1.31 + - 2Cor.5.19 + - 2Cor.5.21 + - Eph.1.7 + - Titus.3.5 + - Titus.3.7 + c: + - Acts.10.44 + - Acts.13.38-Acts.13.39 + - Gal.2.16 + - Eph.2.7-Eph.2.8 + - Phil.3.9 + - number: 2 + text: > + Faith, thus receiving and resting on Christ and his righteousness, is the + alone instrument of justification;[a] yet is it not alone in the person + justified, but is ever accompanied with all other saving graces, and is + no dead faith, but worketh by love.[b] + verses: + a: + - John.1.12 + - Rom.3.28 + - Rom.5.1 + b: + - Gal.5.6 + - Jas.2.17 + - Jas.2.22 + - Jas.2.26 + - number: 3 + text: > + Christ, by his obedience and death, did fully discharge the debt of all + those that are thus justified, and did make a proper, real, and full satisfaction + to his Father's justice in their behalf.[a] Yet inasmuch as he was given + by the Father for them,[b] and his obedience and satisfaction accepted in + their stead,[c] and both freely, not for anything in them, their justification + is only of free grace;[d] that both the exact justice and rich grace of + God might be glorified in the justification of sinners.[e] + verses: + a: + - Isa.53.4-Isa.53.6 + - Isa.53.10-Isa.53.12 + - Dan.9.24 + - Dan.9.26 + - Rom.5.8-Rom.5.10 + - Rom.5.19 + - 1Tim.2.5-1Tim.2.6 + - Heb.10.10 + - Heb.10.14 + b: + - Rom.8.32 + c: + - Matt.3.17 + - 2Cor.5.21 + - Eph.5.2 + d: + - Rom.3.24 + - Eph.1.7 + e: + - Rom.3.26 + - Eph.2.7 + - number: 4 + text: > + God did, from all eternity, decree to justify all the elect,[a] and Christ + did, in the fulness of time, die for their sins, and rise again for their + justification:[b] nevertheless, they are not justified until the Holy Spirit + doth, in due time, actually apply Christ unto them.[c] + verses: + a: + - Rom.8.30 + - Gal.3.8 + - 1Pet.1.2 + - 1Pet.1.19-1Pet.1.20 + b: + - Rom.4.25 + - Gal.4.4 + - 1Tim.2.6 + c: + - Gal.2.16 + - Col.1.21-Col.1.22 + - Titus.3.4-Titus.3.7 + - number: 5 + text: > + God doth continue to forgive the sins of those that are justified;[a] and + although they can never fall from the state of justification,[b] yet they + may by their sins fall under God's fatherly displeasure, and not have the + light of his countenance restored unto them, until they humble themselves, + confess their sins, beg pardon, and renew their faith and repentance.[c] + verses: + a: + - Matt.6.12 + - 1John.1.7 + - 1John.1.9 + - 1John.2.1-1John.2.2 + b: + - Luke.22.32 + - John.10.28 + - Heb.10.14 + c: + - Ps.32.5 + - Ps.51.7-Ps.51.12 + - Ps.89.31-Ps.89.33 + - Matt.26.75 + - Luke.1.20 + - 1Cor.11.30 + - 1Cor.11.32 + - number: 6 + text: > + The justification of believers under the Old Testament was, in all these + respects, one and the same with the justification of believers under the + New Testament.[a] + verses: + a: + - Rom.4.22-Rom.4.24 + - Gal.3.9 + - Gal.3.13-Gal.3.14 + - Heb.13.8 + - name: Of Adoption + number: 12 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + All those that are justified God vouchsafeth, in and for his only Son Jesus + Christ, to make partakers of the grace of adoption;[a] by which they are + taken into the number, and enjoy the liberties and privileges of the children + of God;[b] have his name put upon them;[c] receive the Spirit of adoption;[d] + have access to the throne of grace with boldness;[e] are enabled to cry, + Abba, Father;[f] are pitied,[g] protected,[h] provided for,[i] and chastened + by him as by a father;[k] yet never cast off,[l] but sealed to the day of + redemption,[m] and inherit the promises,[n] as heirs of everlasting salvation.[o] + verses: + a: + - Gal.4.4-Gal.4.5 + - Eph.1.5 + b: + - John.1.12 + - Rom.8.17 + c: + - Jer.14.9 + - 2Cor.6.18 + - Rev.3.12 + d: + - Rom.8.15 + e: + - Rom.5.2 + - Eph.3.12 + f: + - Gal.4.6 + g: + - Ps.103.13 + h: + - Prov.14.26 + i: + - Matt.6.30 + - Matt.6.32 + - 1Pet.5.7 + k: + - Heb.12.6 + l: + - Lam.3.31 + m: + - Eph.4.30 + n: + - Heb.6.12 + o: + - Heb.1.14 + - 1Pet.1.3-1Pet.1.4 + - name: Of Sanctification + number: 13 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + They who are effectually called and regenerated, having a new heart and + a new spirit created in them, are further sanctified, really and personally, + through the virtue of Christ's death and resurrection,[a] by his Word and + Spirit dwelling in them;[b] the dominion of the whole body of sin is destroyed,[c] + and the several lusts thereof are more and more weakened and mortified,[d] + and they more and more quickened and strengthened, in all saving graces,[e] + to the practice of true holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.[f] + verses: + a: + - Acts.20.32 + - Rom.6.5-Rom.6.6 + - 1Cor.6.11 + - Phil.3.10 + b: + - John.17.17 + - Eph.5.26 + - 2Thess.2.13 + c: + - Rom.6.6 + - Rom.6.14 + d: + - Rom.8.13 + - Gal.5.24 + e: + - Eph.3.16-Eph.3.19 + - Col.1.11 + f: + - 2Cor.7.1 + - Heb.12.14 + - number: 2 + text: > + This sanctification is throughout in the whole man,[a] yet imperfect in + this life; there abideth still some remnants of corruption in every part,[b] + whence ariseth a continual and irreconcilable war, the flesh lusting against + the spirit, and the spirit against the flesh.[c] + verses: + a: + - 1Thess.5.23 + b: + - Rom.7.18 + - Rom.7.23 + - Phil.3.12 + - 1John.1.10 + c: + - Gal.5.17 + - 1Pet.2.11 + - number: 3 + text: > + In which war, although the remaining corruption for a time may much prevail,[a] + yet, through the continual supply of strength from the sanctifying Spirit + of Christ, the regenerate part doth overcome;[b] and so the saints grow + in grace,[c] perfecting holiness in the fear of God.[d] + verses: + a: + - Rom.7.23 + b: + - Rom.6.14 + - Eph.4.15-Eph.4.16 + - 1John.5.4 + c: + - 2Cor.3.18 + - 2Pet.3.18 + d: + - 2Cor.7.1 + - name: Of Saving Faith + number: 14 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + The grace of faith, whereby the elect are enabled to believe to the saving + of their souls,[a] is the work of the Spirit of Christ in their hearts,[b] + and is ordinarily wrought by the ministry of the Word;[c] by which also, + and by the administration of the sacraments and prayer, it is increased + and strengthened.[d] + verses: + a: + - Heb.10.39 + b: + - Eph.1.17-Eph.1.19 + - Eph.2.8 + - 2Cor.4.13 + c: + - Rom.10.14 + - Rom.10.17 + d: + - Luke.17.5 + - Acts.20.32 + - Rom.1.16-Rom.1.17 + - Rom.4.11 + - 1Pet.2.2 + - number: 2 + text: > + By this faith a Christian believeth to be true whatsoever is revealed in + the Word, for the authority of God himself speaking therein;[a] and acteth + differently upon that which each particular passage thereof containeth; + yielding obedience to the commands,[b] trembling at the threatenings,[c] + and embracing the promises of God for this life and that which is to come.[d] + But the principal acts of saving faith are accepting, receiving, and resting + upon Christ alone for justification, sanctification, and eternal life, by + virtue of the covenant of grace.[e] + verses: + a: + - John.4.42 + - Acts.24.14 + - 1Thess.2.13 + - 1John.5.10 + b: + - Rom.16.26 + c: + - Isa.66.2 + d: + - 1Tim.4.8 + - Heb.11.13 + e: + - John.1.12 + - Acts.15.11 + - Acts.16.31 + - Gal.2.20 + - number: 3 + text: > + This faith is different in degrees, weak or strong;[a] may be often and + many ways assailed and weakened, but gets the victory;[b] growing up in + many to the attainment of a full assurance through Christ,[c] who is both + the author and finisher of our faith.[d] + verses: + a: + - Matt.6.30 + - Matt.8.10 + - Rom.4.19-Rom.4.20 + - Heb.5.13-Heb.5.14 + b: + - Luke.22.31-Luke.22.32 + - Eph.6.16 + - 1John.5.4-1John.5.5 + c: + - Col.2.2 + - Heb.6.11-Heb.6.12 + - Heb.10.22 + d: + - Heb.12.2 + - name: Of Repentance unto Life + number: 15 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Repentance unto life is an evangelical grace,[a] the doctrine whereof is + to be preached by every minister of the gospel, as well as that of faith + in Christ.[b] + verses: + a: + - Zech.12.10 + - Acts.11.18 + b: + - Luke.24.47 + - Mark.1.15 + - Acts.20.21 + - number: 2 + text: > + By it a sinner, out of the sight and sense, not only of the danger, but + also of the filthiness and odiousness of his sins, as contrary to the holy + nature and righteous law of God, and upon the apprehension of his mercy + in Christ to such as are penitent, so grieves for and hates his sins as + to turn from them all unto God,[a] purposing and endeavoring to walk with + him in all the ways of his commandments.[b] + verses: + a: + - Ps.51.4 + - Ps.119.128 + - Isa.30.22 + - Jer.31.18-Jer.31.19 + - Ezek.18.30-Ezek.18.31 + - Ezek.36.31 + - Joel.2.12-Joel.2.13 + - Amos.5.15 + - 2Cor.7.11 + b: + - 2Kgs.23.25 + - Ps.119.6 + - Ps.119.59 + - Ps.119.106 + - Luke.1.6 + - number: 3 + text: > + Although repentance be not to be rested in as any satisfaction for sin, + or any cause of the pardon thereof,[a] which is the act of God's free grace + in Christ;[b] yet is it of such necessity to all sinners that none may expect + pardon without it.[c] + verses: + a: + - Ezek.16.61-Ezek.16.63 + - Ezek.36.31-Ezek.36.32 + b: + - Hos.14.2 + - Hos.14.4 + - Rom.3.24 + - Eph.1.7 + c: + - Luke.13.3 + - Luke.13.5 + - Acts.17.30-Acts.17.31 + - number: 4 + text: > + As there is no sin so small but it deserves damnation,[a] so there is no + sin so great that it can bring damnation upon those who truly repent.[b] + verses: + a: + - Matt.12.36 + - Rom.5.12 + - Rom.6.23 + b: + - Isa.1.16 + - Isa.1.18 + - Isa.55.7 + - Rom.8.1 + - number: 5 + text: > + Men ought not to content themselves with a general repentance, but it is + every man's duty to endeavor to repent of his particular sins particularly.[a] + verses: + a: + - Ps.19.13 + - Luke.19.8 + - 1Tim.1.13 + - 1Tim.1.15 + - number: 6 + text: > + As every man is bound to make private confession of his sins to God, praying + for the pardon thereof,[a] upon which, and the forsaking of them, he shall + find mercy;[b] so he that scandalizeth his brother, or the Church of Christ, + ought to be willing, by a private or public confession and sorrow for his + sin, to declare his repentance to those that are offended,[c] who are thereupon + to be reconciled to him, and in love to receive him.[d] + verses: + a: + - Ps.32.5-Ps.32.6 + - Ps.51.4-Ps.51.5 + - Ps.51.7 + - Ps.51.9 + - Ps.51.14 + b: + - Prov.28.13 + - 1John.1.9 + c: + - Ps.51 + - Josh.7.19 + - Luke.17.3-Luke.17.4 + - Jas.5.16 + d: + - 2Cor.2.8 + - name: Of Good Works + number: 16 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Good works are only such as God hath commanded in his holy Word,[a] and + not such as, without the warrant thereof, are devised by men out of blind + zeal, or upon any pretense of good intention.[b] + verses: + a: + - Mic.6.8 + - Rom.12.2 + - Heb.13.21 + b: + - 1Sam.15.21-1Sam.15.23 + - Isa.29.13 + - Matt.15.9 + - John.16.2 + - Rom.10.2 + - 1Pet.1.18 + - number: 2 + text: > + These good works, done in obedience to God's commandments, are the fruits + and evidences of a true and lively faith;[a] and by them believers manifest + their thankfulness,[b] strengthen their assurance,[c] edify their brethren,[d] + adorn the profession of the gospel,[e] stop the mouths of the adversaries,[f] + and glorify God,[g] whose workmanship they are, created in Christ Jesus + thereunto,[h] that, having their fruit unto holiness, they may have the + end, eternal life.[i] + verses: + a: + - Jas.2.18 + - Jas.2.22 + b: + - Ps.116.12-Ps.116.13 + - 1Pet.2.9 + c: + - 2Pet.1.5-2Pet.1.10 + - 1John.2.3 + - 1John.2.5 + d: + - Matt.5.16 + - 2Cor.9.2 + e: + - 1Tim.6.1 + - Titus.2.5 + - Titus.2.9-Titus.2.12 + f: + - 1Pet.2.15 + g: + - John.15.8 + - Phil.1.11 + - 1Pet.2.12 + h: + - Eph.2.10 + i: + - Rom.6.22 + - number: 3 + text: > + Their ability to do good works is not at all of themselves, but wholly from + the Spirit of Christ.[a] And that they may be enabled thereunto, besides + the graces they have already received, there is required an actual influence + of the same Holy Spirit to work in them to will and to do of his good pleasure;[b] + yet are they not hereupon to grow negligent, as if they were not bound to + perform any duty unless upon a special motion of the Spirit; but they ought + to be diligent in stirring up the grace of God that is in them.[c] + verses: + a: + - Ezek.36.26-Ezek.36.27 + - John.15.4-John.15.6 + b: + - Phil.2.13 + - Phil.4.13 + - 2Cor.3.5 + c: + - Isa.64.7 + - Acts.26.6-Acts.26.7 + - Phil.2.12 + - 2Tim.1.6 + - Heb.6.11-Heb.6.12 + - 2Pet.1.3 + - 2Pet.1.5 + - 2Pet.1.10-2Pet.1.11 + - Jude.1.20-Jude.1.21 + - number: 4 + text: > + They who in their obedience attain to the greatest height which is possible + in this life, are so far from being able to supererogate and to do more + than God requires, as that they fall short of much which in duty they are + bound to do.[a] + verses: + a: + - Neh.13.22 + - Job.9.2-Job.9.3 + - Luke.17.10 + - Gal.5.17 + - number: 5 + text: > + We cannot, by our best works, merit pardon of sin, or eternal life at the + hand of God, by reason of the great disproportion that is between them and + the glory to come, and the infinite distance that is between us and God, + whom by them we can neither profit nor satisfy for the debt of our former + sins;[a] but when we have done all we can, we have done but our duty, and + are unprofitable servants;[b] and because, as they are good, they proceed + from his Spirit;[c] and as they are wrought by us, they are defiled and + mixed with so much weakness and imperfection that they cannot endure the + severity of God's judgment.[d] + verses: + a: + - Job.22.2-Job.22.3 + - Job.35.7-Job.35.8 + - Ps.16.2 + - Rom.3.20 + - Rom.4.2 + - Rom.4.4 + - Rom.4.6 + - Rom.8.18 + - Eph.2.8-Eph.2.9 + - Titus.3.5-Titus.3.7 + b: + - Luke.17.10 + c: + - Gal.5.22-Gal.5.23 + d: + - Ps.130.3 + - Ps.143.2 + - Isa.64.6 + - Rom.7.15 + - Rom.7.18 + - Gal.5.17 + - number: 6 + text: > + Yet notwithstanding, the persons of believers being accepted through Christ, + their good works also are accepted in him,[a] not as though they were in + this life wholly unblamable and unreprovable in God's sight;[b] but that + he, looking upon them in his Son, is pleased to accept and reward that which + is sincere, although accompanied with many weaknesses and imperfections.[c] + verses: + a: + - Gen.4.4 + - Heb.11.4 + - Exod.28.38 + - Eph.1.6 + - 1Pet.2.5 + b: + - Job.9.20 + - Ps.143.2 + c: + - Matt.25.21 + - Matt.25.23 + - 2Cor.8.12 + - Heb.6.10 + - Heb.13.20-Heb.13.21 + - number: 7 + text: > + Works done by unregenerate men, although for the matter of them they may + be things which God commands, and of good use both to themselves and others;[a] + yet because they proceed not from a heart purified by faith,[b] nor are + done in a right manner, according to the Word,[c] nor to a right end, the + glory of God;[d] they are therefore sinful, and cannot please God, or make + a man meet to receive grace from God.[e] And yet their neglect of them is + more sinful and displeasing unto God.[f] + verses: + a: + - 1Kgs.21.27 + - 1Kgs.21.29 + - 2Kgs.10.30-2Kgs.10.31 + - Phil.1.15-Phil.1.16 + - Phil.1.18 + b: + - Gen.4.3-Gen.4.5 + - Heb.11.4 + - Heb.11.6 + c: + - Isa.1.12 + - 1Cor.13.3 + d: + - Matt.6.2 + - Matt.6.5 + - Matt.6.16 + e: + - Amos.5.21-Amos.5.22 + - Hos.1.4 + - Hag.2.14 + - Rom.9.16 + - Titus.1.15 + - Titus.3.5 + f: + - Job.21.14-Job.21.15 + - Ps.14.4 + - Ps.36.3 + - Matt.23.23 + - Matt.25.41-Matt.25.45 + - name: Of the Perseverance of the Saints + number: 17 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + They whom God hath accepted in his Beloved, effectually called and sanctified + by his Spirit, can neither totally nor finally fall away from the state + of grace; but shall certainly persevere therein to the end, and be eternally + saved.[a] + verses: + a: + - John.10.28-John.10.29 + - Phil.1.6 + - 1Pet.1.5 + - 1Pet.1.9 + - 2Pet.1.10 + - 1John.3.9 + - number: 2 + text: > + This perseverance of the saints depends, not upon their own free will, but + upon the immutability of the decree of election, flowing from the free and + unchangeable love of God the Father;[a] upon the efficacy of the merit and + intercession of Jesus Christ;[b] the abiding of the Spirit and of the seed + of God within them;[c] and the nature of the covenant of grace:[d] from + all which ariseth also the certainty and infallibility thereof.[e] + verses: + a: + - Jer.31.3 + - 2Tim.2.18-2Tim.2.19 + b: + - Luke.22.32 + - John.17.11 + - John.17.24 + - Heb.7.25 + - Heb.9.12-Heb.9.15 + - Heb.10.10 + - Heb.10.14 + - Heb.13.20-Heb.13.21 + - Rom.8.33-Rom.8.39 + c: + - John.14.16-John.14.17 + - 1John.2.27 + - 1John.3.9 + d: + - Jer.32.40 + e: + - John.10.28 + - 2Thess.3.3 + - 1John.2.19 + - number: 3 + text: > + Nevertheless they may, through the temptations of Satan and of the world, + the prevalency of corruption remaining in them, and the neglect of the means + of their preservation, fall into grievous sins;[a] and for a time continue + therein:[b] whereby they incur God's displeasure,[c] and grieve his Holy + Spirit;[d] come to be deprived of some measure of their graces and comforts;[e] + have their hearts hardened,[f] and their consciences wounded;[g] hurt and + scandalize others,[h] and bring temporal judgments upon themselves.[i] + verses: + a: + - Matt.26.70 + - Matt.26.72 + - Matt.26.74 + b: + - Ps.51.14 + c: + - 2Sam.11.27 + - Isa.64.5 + - Isa.64.7 + - Isa.64.9 + d: + - Eph.4.30 + e: + - Ps.51.8 + - Ps.51.10 + - Ps.51.12 + - Song.5.2-Song.5.4 + - Song.5.6 + - Rev.2.4 + f: + - Isa.63.17 + - Mark.6.52 + - Mark.16.14 + g: + - Ps.32.3-Ps.32.4 + - Ps.51.8 + h: + - 2Sam.12.14 + i: + - Ps.89.31-Ps.89.32 + - 1Cor.11.32 + - name: Of the Assurance of Grace and Salvation + number: 18 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Although hypocrites and other unregenerate men may vainly deceive themselves + with false hopes and carnal presumptions of being in the favour of God and + estate of salvation,[a] which hope of theirs shall perish:[b] yet such as + truly believe in the Lord Jesus, and love him in sincerity, endeavoring + to walk in all good conscience before him, may in this life be certainly + assured that they are in a state of grace,[c] and may rejoice in the hope + of the glory of God, which hope shall never make them ashamed.[d] + verses: + a: + - Deut.29.19 + - Job.8.13-Job.8.14 + - Mic.3.11 + - John.8.41 + b: + - Matt.7.22-Matt.7.23 + c: + - 1John.2.3 + - 1John.3.14 + - 1John.3.18-1John.3.19 + - 1John.3.21 + - 1John.3.24 + - 1John.5.13 + d: + - Rom.5.2 + - Rom.5.5 + - number: 2 + text: > + This certainty is not a bare conjectural and probable persuasion, grounded + upon a fallible hope;[a] but an infallible assurance of faith, founded upon + the divine truth of the promises of salvation,[b] the inward evidence of + those graces unto which these promises are made,[c] the testimony of the + Spirit of adoption witnessing with our spirits that we are the children + of God:[d] which Spirit is the earnest of our inheritance, whereby we are + sealed to the day of redemption.[e] + verses: + a: + - Heb.6.11 + - Heb.6.19 + b: + - Heb.6.17-Heb.6.18 + c: + - 2Cor.1.12 + - 2Pet.1.4-2Pet.1.5 + - 2Pet.1.10-2Pet.1.11 + - 1John.2.3 + - 1John.3.14 + d: + - Rom.8.15-Rom.8.16 + e: + - Eph.1.13-Eph.1.14 + - Eph.4.30 + - 2Cor.1.21-2Cor.1.22 + - number: 3 + text: > + This infallible assurance doth not so belong to the essence of faith, but + that a true believer may wait long, and conflict with many difficulties + before he be partaker of it:[a] yet, being enabled by the Spirit to know + the things which are freely given him of God, he may, without extraordinary + revelation, in the right use of ordinary means, attain thereunto.[b] And + therefore it is the duty of everyone to give all diligence to make his calling + and election sure;[c] that thereby his heart may be enlarged in peace and + joy in the Holy Ghost, in love and thankfulness to God, and in strength + and cheerfulness in the duties of obedience,[d] the proper fruits of this + assurance: so far is it from inclining men to looseness.[e] + verses: + a: + - Ps.88 + - Ps.77.1-Ps.77.12 + - Isa.50.10 + - Mark.9.24 + - 1John.5.13 + b: + - 1Cor.2.12 + - Eph.3.17-Eph.3.19 + - Heb.6.11-Heb.6.12 + - 1John.4.13 + c: + - 2Pet.1.10 + d: + - Rom.5.1-Rom.5.2 + - Rom.5.5 + - Rom.14.17 + - Rom.15.13 + - Eph.1.3-Eph.1.4 + - Ps.4.6-Ps.4.7 + - Ps.119.32 + e: + - Ps.130.4 + - Rom.6.1-Rom.6.2 + - Rom.8.1 + - Rom.8.12 + - 2Cor.7.1 + - Titus.2.11-Titus.2.12 + - Titus.2.14 + - 1John.1.6-1John.1.7 + - 1John.2.1-1John.2.2 + - 1John.3.2-1John.3.3 + - number: 4 + text: > + True believers may have the assurance of their salvation divers ways shaken, + diminished, and intermitted; as, by negligence in preserving of it; by falling + into some special sin, which woundeth the conscience, and grieveth the Spirit; + by some sudden or vehement temptation; by God's withdrawing the light of + his countenance, and suffering even such as fear him to walk in darkness + and to have no light:[a] yet are they never utterly destitute of that seed + of God, and life of faith, that love of Christ and the brethren, that sincerity + of heart and conscience of duty, out of which, by the operation of the Spirit, + this assurance may in due time be revived,[b] and by the which, in the meantime, + they are supported from utter despair.[c] + verses: + a: + - Ps.31.22 + - Ps.51.8 + - Ps.51.12 + - Ps.51.14 + - Ps.77.1-Ps.77.10 + - Ps.88 + - Song.5.2-Song.5.3 + - Song.5.6 + - Isa.50.10 + - Matt.26.69-Matt.26.72 + - Eph.4.30-Eph.4.31 + b: + - Job.13.15 + - Ps.51.8 + - Ps.51.12 + - Ps.73.15 + - Isa.50.10 + - Luke.22.32 + - 1John.3.9 + c: + - Ps.22.1 + - Ps.88 + - Isa.54.7-Isa.54.10 + - Jer.32.40 + - Mic.7.7-Mic.7.9 + - name: Of the Law of God + number: 19 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + God gave to Adam a law, as a covenant of works, by which he bound him and + all his posterity to personal, entire, exact, and perpetual obedience; promised + life upon the fulfilling, and threatened death upon the breach of it; and + endued him with power and ability to keep it.[a] + verses: + a: + - Gen.1.26-Gen.1.27 + - Gen.2.17 + - Job.28.28 + - Eccl.7.29 + - Rom.2.14-Rom.2.15 + - Rom.5.12 + - Rom.5.19 + - Rom.10.5 + - Gal.3.10 + - Gal.3.12 + - number: 2 + text: > + This law, after his fall, continued to be a perfect rule of righteousness; + and, as such, was delivered by God upon mount Sinai in ten commandments, + and written in two tables;[a] the first four commandments containing our + duty towards God, and the other six our duty to man.[b] + verses: + a: + - Exod.34.1 + - Deut.5.32 + - Deut.10.4 + - Rom.13.8-Rom.13.9 + - Jas.1.25 + - Jas.2.8 + - Jas.2.10-Jas.2.12 + b: + - Matt.22.37-Matt.22.40 + - number: 3 + text: > + Beside this law, commonly called moral, God was pleased to give to the people + of Israel, as a Church under age, ceremonial laws, containing several typical + ordinances, partly of worship, prefiguring Christ, his graces, actions, + sufferings, and benefits;[a] and partly holding forth divers instructions + of moral duties.[b] All which ceremonial laws are now abrogated under the + New Testament.[c] + verses: + a: + - Gal.4.1-Gal.4.3 + - Col.2.17 + - Heb.9 + - Heb.10.1 + b: + - 1Cor.5.7 + - 2Cor.6.17 + - Jude.1.23 + c: + - Dan.9.27 + - Eph.2.15-Eph.2.16 + - Col.2.14 + - Col.2.16-Col.2.17 + - number: 4 + text: > + To them also, as a body politic, he gave sundry judicial laws, which expired + together with the State of that people, not obliging any other, now, further + than the general equity thereof may require.[a] + verses: + a: + - Gen.49.10 + - 1Pet.2.13-1Pet.2.14 + - Exod.21 + - Matt.5.17 + - Matt.5.38-Matt.5.39 + - 1Cor.9.8-1Cor.9.10 + - number: 5 + text: > + The moral law doth forever bind all, as well justified persons as others, + to the obedience thereof;[a] and that not only in regard of the matter contained + in it, but also in respect of the authority of God the Creator who gave + it.[b] Neither doth Christ in the gospel any way dissolve, but much strengthen, + this obligation.[c] + verses: + a: + - Rom.13.8-Rom.13.10 + - Eph.6.2 + - 1John.2.3-1John.2.4 + - 1John.2.7-1John.2.8 + b: + - Jas.2.10-Jas.2.11 + c: + - Matt.5.17-Matt.5.19 + - Rom.3.31 + - Jas.2.8 + - number: 6 + text: > + Although true believers be not under the law as a covenant of works, to + be thereby justified or condemned;[a] yet is it of great use to them, as + well as to others; in that, as a rule of life, informing them of the will + of God and their duty, it directs and binds them to walk accordingly;[b] + discovering also the sinful pollutions of their nature, hearts, and lives;[c] + so as, examining themselves thereby, they may come to further conviction + of, humiliation for, and hatred against sin;[d] together with a clearer + sight of the need they have of Christ, and the perfection of his obedience.[e] + It is likewise of use to the regenerate, to restrain their corruptions, + in that it forbids sin;[f] and the threatenings of it serve to show what + even their sins deserve, and what afflictions in this life they may expect + for them, although freed from the curse thereof threatened in the law.[g] + The promises of it, in like manner, show them God's approbation of obedience, + and what blessings they may expect upon the performance thereof;[h] although + not as due to them by the law as a covenant of works:[i] so as a man's doing + good, and refraining from evil, because the law encourageth to the one, + and deterreth from the other, is no evidence of his being under the law, + and not under grace.[k] + verses: + a: + - Acts.13.39 + - Rom.6.14 + - Rom.8.1 + - Gal.2.16 + - Gal.3.13 + - Gal.4.4-Gal.4.5 + b: + - Ps.119.4-Ps.119.6 + - Rom.7.12 + - Rom.7.22 + - Rom.7.25 + - 1Cor.7.19 + - Gal.5.14 + - Gal.5.16 + - Gal.5.18-Gal.5.23 + c: + - Rom.3.20 + - Rom.7.7 + d: + - Rom.7.9 + - Rom.7.14 + - Rom.7.24 + - Jas.1.23-Jas.1.25 + e: + - Rom.7.24-Rom.7.25 + - Rom.8.3-Rom.8.4 + - Gal.3.24 + f: + - Ps.119.101 + - Ps.119.104 + - Ps.119.128 + - Jas.2.11 + g: + - Ezra.9.13-Ezra.9.14 + - Ps.89.30-Ps.89.34 + h: + - Lev.26.1 + - Lev.26.10 + - Lev.26.14 + - 2Cor.6.16 + - Ps.19.11 + - Ps.37.11 + - Matt.5.5 + - Eph.6.2-Eph.6.3 + i: + - Luke.17.10 + - Gal.2.16 + k: + - Rom.6.12 + - Rom.6.14 + - Heb.12.28-Heb.12.29 + - 1Pet.3.8-1Pet.3.12 + - Ps.34.12-Ps.34.16 + - number: 7 + text: > + Neither are the forementioned uses of the law contrary to the grace of the + gospel, but do sweetly comply with it:[a] the Spirit of Christ subduing + and enabling the will of man to do that freely and cheerfully which the + will of God, revealed in the law, requireth to be done.[b] + verses: + a: + - Gal.3.21 + b: + - Ezek.36.27 + - Heb.8.10 + - Jer.31.33 + - name: Of Christian Liberty, and Liberty of Conscience + number: 20 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + The liberty which Christ hath purchased for believers under the gospel consists + in their freedom from the guilt of sin, the condemning wrath of God, the + curse of the moral law;[a] and in their being delivered from this present + evil world, bondage to Satan, and dominion of sin,[b] from the evil of afflictions, + the sting of death, the victory of the grave, and everlasting damnation;[c] + as also in their free access to God,[d] and their yielding obedience unto + him, not out of slavish fear, but a child-like love and willing mind.[e] + All which were common also to believers under the law;[f] but under the + New Testament the liberty of Christians is further enlarged in their freedom + from the yoke of the ceremonial law, to which the Jewish Church was subjected;[g] + and in greater boldness of access to the throne of grace,[h] and in fuller + communications of the free Spirit of God, than believers under the law did + ordinarily partake of.[i] + verses: + a: + - Gal.3.13 + - 1Thess.1.10 + - Titus.2.14 + b: + - Acts.26.18 + - Rom.6.14 + - Gal.1.4 + - Col.1.13 + c: + - Ps.119.71 + - Rom.8.1 + - Rom.8.28 + - 1Cor.15.54-1Cor.15.57 + d: + - Rom.5.1-Rom.5.2 + e: + - Rom.8.14-Rom.8.15 + - 1John.4.18 + f: + - Gal.3.9 + - Gal.3.14 + g: + - Acts.15.10-Acts.15.11 + - Gal.4.1-Gal.4.3 + - Gal.4.6-Gal.4.7 + - Gal.5.1 + h: + - Heb.4.14 + - Heb.4.16 + - Heb.10.19-Heb.10.22 + i: + - John.7.38-John.7.39 + - 2Cor.3.13 + - 2Cor.3.17-2Cor.3.18 + - number: 2 + text: > + God alone is Lord of the conscience,[a] and hath left it free from the doctrines + and commandments of men which are in anything contrary to his Word, or beside + it, in matters of faith or worship.[b] So that to believe such doctrines, + or to obey such commands out of conscience, is to betray true liberty of + conscience;[c] and the requiring of an implicit faith, and an absolute and + blind obedience, is to destroy liberty of conscience, and reason also.[d] + verses: + a: + - Rom.14.4 + - Jas.4.12 + b: + - Matt.15.9 + - Matt.23.8-Matt.23.10 + - Acts.4.19 + - Acts.5.29 + - 1Cor.7.23 + - 2Cor.1.24 + c: + - Ps.5.1 + - Gal.1.10 + - Gal.2.4-Gal.2.5 + - Gal.5.1 + - Col.2.20-Col.2.23 + d: + - Isa.8.20 + - Jer.8.9 + - Hos.5.11 + - John.4.22 + - Acts.17.11 + - Rom.10.17 + - Rom.14.23 + - Rev.13.12 + - Rev.13.16-Rev.13.17 + - number: 3 + text: > + They who, upon pretense of Christian liberty, do practice any sin, or cherish + any lust, do thereby destroy the end of Christian liberty; which is, that, + being delivered out of the hands of our enemies, we might serve the Lord + without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of + our life.[a] + verses: + a: + - Luke.1.74-Luke.1.75 + - John.8.34 + - Gal.5.13 + - 1Pet.2.16 + - 2Pet.2.19 + - number: 4 + text: > + And because the power which God hath ordained, and the liberty which Christ + hath purchased, are not intended by God to destroy, but mutually to uphold + and preserve one another; they who, upon pretense of Christian liberty, + shall oppose any lawful power, or the lawful exercise of it, whether it + be civil or ecclesiastical, resist the ordinance of God.[a] And for their + publishing of such opinions, or maintaining of such practices, as are contrary + to the light of nature, or to the known principles of Christianity, whether + concerning faith, worship, or conversation; or to the power of godliness; + or such erroneous opinions or practices as, either in their own nature, + or in the manner of publishing or maintaining them, are destructive to the + external peace and order which Christ hath established in the Church; they + may lawfully be called to account,[b] and proceeded against by the censures + of the Church, and by the power of the Civil Magistrate.[c] + verses: + a: + - Matt.12.25 + - Rom.13.1-Rom.13.8 + - Heb.13.17 + - 1Pet.2.13-1Pet.2.14 + - 1Pet.2.16 + b: + - Rom.1.32 + - 1Cor.5.1 + - 1Cor.5.5 + - 1Cor.5.11 + - 1Cor.5.13 + - 2John.1.10-2John.1.11 + - 2Thess.3.14 + - 1Tim.6.3-1Tim.6.5 + - Titus.1.10-Titus.1.11 + - Titus.1.13 + - Titus.3.10 + - Matt.18.15-Matt.18.17 + - 1Tim.1.19-1Tim.1.20 + - Rev.2.2 + - Rev.2.14-Rev.2.15 + - Rev.2.20 + - Rev.3.9 + c: + - Deut.13.6-Deut.13.12 + - 2Kgs.23.5-2Kgs.23.6 + - 2Kgs.23.9 + - 2Kgs.23.20-2Kgs.23.21 + - 2Chr.15.12-2Chr.15.13 + - 2Chr.15.16 + - 2Chr.34.33 + - Neh.13.15 + - Neh.13.17 + - Neh.13.21-Neh.13.22 + - Neh.13.25 + - Neh.13.30 + - Isa.49.23 + - Dan.3.29 + - Zech.13.2-Zech.13.3 + - Rom.13.3-Rom.13.4 + - 2John.1.10-2John.1.11 + - 1Tim.2.2 + - Rev.17.12 + - Rev.17.16-Rev.17.17 + - name: Of Religious Worship and the Sabbath Day + number: 21 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + The light of nature showeth that there is a God, who hath lordship and sovereignty + over all; is good, and doeth good unto all; and is therefore to be feared, + loved, praised, called upon, trusted in, and served with all the heart, + and with all the soul, and with all the might.[a] But the acceptable way + of worshipping the true God is instituted by himself, and so limited to + his own revealed will, that he may not be worshipped according to the imaginations + and devices of men, or the suggestions of Satan, under any visible representations + or any other way not prescribed in the Holy Scripture.[b] + verses: + a: + - Josh.24.14 + - Ps.18.3 + - Ps.31.23 + - Ps.62.8 + - Ps.119.68 + - Jer.10.7 + - Mark.12.33 + - Acts.17.24 + - Rom.1.20 + - Rom.10.12 + b: + - Exod.20.4-Exod.20.6 + - Deut.4.15-Deut.4.20 + - Deut.12.32 + - Matt.4.9-Matt.4.10 + - Matt.15.9 + - Acts.17.25 + - Col.2.23 + - number: 2 + text: > + Religious worship is to be given to God, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost; + and to him alone:[a] not to angels, saints, or any other creature:[b] and + since the fall, not without a Mediator; nor in the mediation of any other + but of Christ alone.[c] + verses: + a: + - Matt.4.10 + - John.5.23 + - 2Cor.13.14 + b: + - Rom.1.25 + - Col.2.18 + - Rev.19.10 + c: + - John.14.6 + - Eph.2.18 + - Col.3.17 + - 1Tim.2.5 + - number: 3 + text: > + Prayer with thanksgiving, being one special part of religious worship,[a] + is by God required of all men;[b] and that it may be accepted, it is to + be made in the name of the Son,[c] by the help of his Spirit,[d] according + to his will,[e] with understanding, reverence, humility, fervency, faith, + love, and perseverance;[f] and, if vocal, in a known tongue.[g] + verses: + a: + - Phil.4.6 + b: + - Ps.65.2 + c: + - John.14.13-John.14.14 + - 1Pet.2.5 + d: + - Rom.8.26 + e: + - 1John.5.14 + f: + - Gen.18.27 + - Ps.47.7 + - Eccl.5.1-Eccl.5.2 + - Matt.6.12 + - Matt.6.14-Matt.6.15 + - Mark.11.24 + - Eph.6.18 + - Col.4.2 + - Heb.12.28 + - Jas.1.6-Jas.1.7 + - Jas.5.16 + g: + - 1Cor.14.14 + - number: 4 + text: > + Prayer is to be made for things lawful,[a] and for all sorts of men living, + or that shall live hereafter;[b] but not for the dead,[c] nor for those + of whom it may be known that they have sinned the sin unto death.[d] + verses: + a: + - 1John.5.14 + b: + - Ruth.4.12 + - 2Sam.7.29 + - John.17.20 + - 1Tim.2.1-1Tim.2.2 + c: + - 2Sam.12.21-2Sam.12.23 + - Luke.16.25-Luke.16.26 + - Rev.14.13 + d: + - 1John.5.16 + - number: 5 + text: > + The reading of the Scriptures with godly fear;[a] the sound preaching;[b] + and conscionable hearing of the Word, in obedience unto God with understanding, + faith, and reverence;[c] singing of psalms with grace in the heart;[d] as, + also, the due administration and worthy receiving of the sacraments instituted + by Christ; are all parts of the ordinary religious worship of God:[e] besides + religious oaths,[f] vows,[g] solemn fastings,[h] and thanksgivings upon + several occasions;[i] which are, in their several times and seasons, to + be used in an holy and religious manner.[k] + verses: + a: + - Acts.15.21 + - Rev.1.3 + b: + - 2Tim.4.2 + c: + - Isa.66.2 + - Matt.13.19 + - Acts.10.33 + - Heb.4.2 + - Jas.1.22 + d: + - Eph.5.19 + - Col.3.16 + - Jas.5.13 + e: + - Matt.28.19 + - Acts.2.42 + - 1Cor.11.23-1Cor.11.29 + f: + - Deut.6.13 + - Neh.10.29 + g: + - Isa.19.21 + - Eccl.5.4-Eccl.5.5 + h: + - Esth.4.16 + - Joel.2.12 + - Matt.9.15 + - 1Cor.7.5 + i: + - Esth.9.22 + - Ps.107 + k: + - Heb.12.28 + - number: 6 + text: > + Neither prayer, nor any other part of religious worship, is now, under the + gospel, either tied unto, or made more acceptable by any place in which + it is performed, or towards which it is directed:[a] but God is to be worshipped + everywhere[b] in spirit and truth;[c] as in private families[d] daily,[e] + and in secret each one by himself,[f] so more solemnly in the public assemblies, + which are not carelessly or willfully to be neglected or forsaken, when + God, by his Word or providence, calleth thereunto.[g] + verses: + a: + - John.4.21 + b: + - Mal.1.11 + - 1Tim.2.8 + c: + - John.4.23-John.4.24 + d: + - Deut.6.6-Deut.6.7 + - 2Sam.6.18 + - 2Sam.6.20 + - Job.1.5 + - Jer.10.25 + - Acts.10.2 + - 1Pet.3.7 + e: + - Matt.6.11 + f: + - Matt.6.6 + - Eph.6.18 + g: + - Isa.56.6-Isa.56.7 + - Prov.1.20-Prov.1.21 + - Prov.1.24 + - Prov.8.34 + - Luke.4.16 + - Acts.2.42 + - Acts.13.42 + - Heb.10.25 + - number: 7 + text: > + As it is of the law of nature that, in general, a due proportion of time + be set apart for the worship of God; so, in his Word, by a positive, moral, + and perpetual commandment, binding all men in all ages, he hath particularly + appointed one day in seven for a Sabbath, to be kept holy unto him:[a] which, + from the beginning of the world to the resurrection of Christ, was the last + day of the week; and, from the resurrection of Christ, was changed into + the first day of the week,[b] which in Scripture is called the Lord's day,[c] + and is to be continued to the end of the world, as the Christian Sabbath.[d] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.8 + - Exod.20.10-Exod.20.11 + - Isa.56.2 + - Isa.56.4 + - Isa.56.6-Isa.56.7 + b: + - Gen.2.2-Gen.2.3 + - Acts.20.7 + - 1Cor.16.1-1Cor.16.2 + c: + - Rev.1.10 + d: + - Exod.20.8 + - Exod.20.10 + - Matt.5.17-Matt.5.18 + - number: 8 + text: > + This Sabbath is then kept holy unto the Lord, when men, after a due preparing + of their hearts, and ordering of their common affairs beforehand, do not + only observe an holy rest all the day from their own works, words, and thoughts, + about their worldly employments and recreations;[a] but also are taken up + the whole time in the public and private exercises of his worship, and in + the duties of necessity and mercy.[b] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.8 + - Exod.16.23 + - Exod.16.25-Exod.16.26 + - Exod.16.29-Exod.16.30 + - Exod.31.15-Exod.31.17 + - Isa.58.13 + - Neh.13.15-Neh.13.22 + b: + - Isa.58.13 + - Matt.12.1-Matt.12.13 + - name: Of Lawful Oaths and Vows + number: 22 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + A lawful oath is a part of religious worship,[a] wherein, upon just occasion, + the person swearing solemnly calleth God to witness what he asserteth or + promiseth; and to judge him according to the truth or falsehood of what + he sweareth.[b] + verses: + a: + - Deut.10.20 + b: + - Exod.20.7 + - Lev.19.12 + - 2Chr.6.22-2Chr.6.23 + - 2Cor.1.23 + - number: 2 + text: > + The name of God only is that by which men ought to swear, and therein it + is to be used with all holy fear and reverence;[a] therefore to swear vainly + or rashly by that glorious and dreadful name, or to swear at all by any + other thing, is sinful, and to be abhorred.[b] Yet as, in matters of weight + and moment, an oath is warranted by the Word of God, under the New Testament, + as well as under the Old,[c] so a lawful oath, being imposed by lawful authority, + in such matters ought to be taken.[d] + verses: + a: + - Deut.6.13 + b: + - Exod.20.7 + - Jer.5.7 + - Matt.5.34 + - Matt.5.37 + - Jas.5.12 + c: + - Isa.65.16 + - 2Cor.1.23 + - Heb.6.16 + d: + - 1Kgs.8.31 + - Ezra.10.25 + - Neh.13.25 + - number: 3 + text: > + Whosoever taketh an oath ought duly to consider the weightiness of so solemn + an act, and therein to avouch nothing but what he is fully persuaded is + the truth.[a] Neither may any man bind himself by oath to anything but what + is good and just, and what he believeth so to be, and what he is able and + resolved to perform.[b] Yet it is a sin to refuse an oath touching anything + that is good and just, being imposed by lawful authority.[c] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.7 + - Jer.4.2 + b: + - Gen.24.2-Gen.24.3 + - Gen.24.5-Gen.24.6 + - Gen.24.8-Gen.24.9 + c: + - Exod.22.7-Exod.22.11 + - Num.5.19 + - Num.5.21 + - Neh.5.12 + - number: 4 + text: > + An oath is to be taken in the plain and common sense of the words, without + equivocation or mental reservation.[a] It cannot oblige to sin; but in anything + not sinful, being taken, it binds to performance, although to a man's own + hurt:[b] nor is it to be violated, although made to heretics or infidels.[c] + verses: + a: + - Ps.24.4 + - Jer.4.2 + b: + - 1Sam.25.22 + - 1Sam.25.32-1Sam.25.34 + - Ps.15.4 + c: + - Ezek.17.16 + - Ezek.17.18-Ezek.17.19 + - Josh.9.18-Josh.9.19 + - 2Sam.21.1 + - number: 5 + text: > + A vow is of the like nature with a promissory oath, and ought to be made + with the like religious care, and to be performed with the like faithfulness.[a] + verses: + a: + - Isa.19.21 + - Ps.61.8 + - Ps.66.13-Ps.66.14 + - Eccl.5.4-Eccl.5.6 + - number: 6 + text: > + It is not to be made to any creature, but to God alone:[a] and that it may + be accepted, it is to be made voluntarily, out of faith and conscience of + duty, in way of thankfulness for mercy received, or for the obtaining of + what we want; whereby we more strictly bind ourselves to necessary duties, + or to other things, so far and so long as they may fitly conduce thereunto.[b] + verses: + a: + - Ps.76.11 + - Jer.44.25-Jer.44.26 + b: + - Gen.28.20-Gen.28.22 + - Deut.23.21 + - Deut.23.23 + - 1Sam.1.11 + - Ps.50.14 + - Ps.66.13-Ps.66.14 + - Ps.132.2-Ps.132.5 + - number: 7 + text: > + No man may vow to do anything forbidden in the Word of God, or what would + hinder any duty therein commanded, or which is not in his own power, and + for the performance whereof he hath no promise or ability from God.[a] In + which respect, Popish monastical vows of perpetual single life, professed + poverty, and regular obedience, are so far from being degrees of higher + perfection, that they are superstitious and sinful snares, in which no Christian + may entangle himself.[b] + verses: + a: + - Num.30.5 + - Num.30.8 + - Num.30.12-Num.30.13 + - Mark.6.26 + - Acts.23.12 + - Acts.23.14 + b: + - Matt.19.11-Matt.19.12 + - 1Cor.7.2 + - 1Cor.7.9 + - 1Cor.7.23 + - Eph.4.28 + - 1Pet.4.2 + - name: Of the Civil Magistrate + number: 23 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + God, the Supreme Lord and King of all the world, hath ordained civil magistrates + to be under him, over the people, for his own glory and the public good, + and to this end hath armed them with the power of the sword, for the defense + and encouragement of them that are good, and for the punishment of evil-doers.[a] + verses: + a: + - Rom.13.1-Rom.13.4 + - 1Pet.2.13-1Pet.2.14 + - number: 2 + text: > + It is lawful for Christians to accept and execute the office of a magistrate + when called thereunto;[a] in the managing whereof, as they ought especially + to maintain piety, justice, and peace, according to the wholesome laws of + each commonwealth,[b] so, for that end, they may lawfully, now under the + New Testament, wage war upon just and necessary occasion.[c] + verses: + a: + - Prov.8.15-Prov.8.16 + - Rom.13.1-Rom.13.2 + - Rom.13.4 + b: + - 2Sam.23.3 + - Ps.2.10-Ps.2.12 + - Ps.82.3-Ps.82.4 + - 1Tim.2.2 + - 1Pet.2.13 + c: + - Matt.8.9-Matt.8.10 + - Luke.3.14 + - Acts.10.1-Acts.10.2 + - Rom.13.4 + - Rev.17.14 + - Rev.17.16 + - number: 3 + text: > + The civil magistrate may not assume to himself the administration of the + Word and Sacraments, or the power of the keys of the kingdom of heaven:[a] + yet he hath authority, and it is his duty to take order, that unity and + peace be preserved in the Church, that the truth of God be kept pure and + entire, that all blasphemies and heresies be suppressed, all corruptions + and abuses in worship and discipline prevented or reformed, and all the + ordinances of God duly settled, administered, and observed.[b] For the better + effecting whereof he hath power to call synods, to be present at them, and + to provide that whatsoever is transacted in them be according to the mind + of God.[c] + verses: + a: + - 2Chr.26.18 + - Matt.18.17 + - Matt.16.19 + - Rom.10.15 + - 1Cor.4.1-1Cor.4.2 + - 1Cor.12.28-1Cor.12.29 + - Eph.4.11-Eph.4.12 + - Heb.5.4 + b: + - Deut.13.5-Deut.13.6 + - Deut.13.12 + - Lev.24.16 + - 2Kgs.18.4 + - 2Kgs.23.1-2Kgs.23.26 + - 1Chr.13.1-1Chr.13.9 + - 2Chr.15.12-2Chr.15.13 + - 2Chr.34.33 + - Ezra.7.23-Ezra.7.28 + - Ps.122.9 + - Isa.49.23 + c: + - 2Chr.19.8-2Chr.19.11 + - 2Chr.29-2Chr.30 + - Matt.2.4-Matt.2.5 + - number: 4 + text: > + It is the duty of people to pray for magistrates,[a] to honor their persons,[b] + to pay them tribute and other dues,[c] to obey their lawful commands, and + to be subject to their authority, for conscience' sake.[d] Infidelity or + difference in religion doth not make void the magistrate's just and legal + authority, nor free the people from their due obedience to him:[e] from + which ecclesiastical persons are not exempted;[f] much less hath the Pope + any power or jurisdiction over them in their dominions, or over any of their + people; and least of all to deprive them of their dominions or lives, if + he shall judge them to be heretics, or upon any other pretense whatsoever.[g] + verses: + a: + - 1Tim.2.1-1Tim.2.2 + b: + - 1Pet.2.17 + c: + - Rom.13.6-Rom.13.7 + d: + - Rom.13.5 + - Titus.1.3 + e: + - 1Pet.2.13-1Pet.2.14 + - 1Pet.2.16 + f: + - 1Kgs.2.35 + - Acts.25.9-Acts.25.11 + - Rom.13.1 + - 2Pet.2.1 + - 2Pet.2.10-2Pet.2.11 + - Jude.1.8-Jude.1.11 + g: + - 2Thess.2.4 + - Rev.13.15-Rev.13.17 + - name: Of Marriage and Divorce + number: 24 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Marriage is to be between one man and one woman: neither is it lawful for + any man to have more than one wife, nor for any woman to have more than + one husband at the same time.[a] + verses: + a: + - Gen.2.24 + - Prov.2.17 + - Matt.19.5-Matt.19.6 + - number: 2 + text: > + Marriage was ordained for the mutual help of husband and wife;[a] for the + increase of mankind with a legitimate issue, and of the Church with an holy + seed;[b] and for preventing of uncleanness.[c] + verses: + a: + - Gen.2.18 + b: + - Mal.2.15 + c: + - 1Cor.7.2 + - 1Cor.7.9 + - number: 3 + text: > + It is lawful for all sorts of people to marry who are able with judgment + to give their consent.[a] Yet it is the duty of Christians to marry only + in the Lord.[b] And therefore, such as profess the true reformed religion + should not marry with infidels, Papists, or other idolaters: neither should + such as are godly be unequally yoked, by marrying with such as are notoriously + wicked in their life, or maintain damnable heresies.[c] + verses: + a: + - Gen.24.57-Gen.24.58 + - 1Cor.7.36-1Cor.7.38 + - Heb.13.4 + - 1Tim.4.3 + b: + - 1Cor.7.39 + c: + - Gen.34.14 + - Exod.34.16 + - Deut.7.3-Deut.7.4 + - 1Kgs.11.4 + - Neh.13.25-Neh.13.27 + - Mal.2.11-Mal.2.12 + - 2Cor.6.14 + - number: 4 + text: > + Marriage ought not to be within the degrees of consanguinity or affinity + forbidden in the Word;[a] nor can such incestuous marriages ever be made + lawful by any law of man, or consent of parties, so as those persons may + live together as man and wife.[b] The man may not marry any of his wife's + kindred nearer in blood than he may of his own, nor the woman of her husband's + kindred nearer in blood than of her own.[c] + verses: + a: + - Lev.18 + - Amos.2.7 + - 1Cor.5.1 + b: + - Lev.18.24-Lev.18.28 + - Mark.6.18 + c: + - Lev.20.19-Lev.20.21 + - number: 5 + text: > + Adultery or fornication, committed after a contract, being detected before + marriage, giveth just occasion to the innocent party to dissolve that contract.[a] + In the case of adultery after marriage, it is lawful for the innocent party + to sue out a divorce,[b] and after the divorce to marry another, as if the + offending party were dead.[c] + verses: + a: + - Matt.1.18-Matt.1.20 + b: + - Matt.5.31-Matt.5.32 + c: + - Matt.19.9 + - Rom.7.2-Rom.7.3 + - number: 6 + text: > + Although the corruption of man be such as is apt to study arguments, unduly + to put asunder those whom God hath joined together in marriage; yet nothing + but adultery, or such wilful desertion as can no way be remedied by the + Church or civil magistrate, is cause sufficient of dissolving the bond of + marriage;[a] wherein a public and orderly course of proceeding is to be + observed; and the persons concerned in it, not left to their own wills and + discretion in their own case.[b] + verses: + a: + - Matt.19.6 + - Matt.19.8-Matt.19.9 + - 1Cor.7.15 + b: + - Deut.24.1-Deut.24.4 + - name: Of the Church + number: 25 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + The catholic or universal Church, which is invisible, consists of the whole + number of the elect, that have been, are, or shall be gathered into one, + under Christ the head thereof; and is the spouse, the body, the fulness + of him that filleth all in all.[a] + verses: + a: + - Eph.1.10 + - Eph.1.22-Eph.1.23 + - Eph.5.23 + - Eph.5.27 + - Eph.5.32 + - Col.1.18 + - number: 2 + text: > + The visible Church, which is also catholic or universal under the gospel + (not confined to one nation as before under the law) consists of all those, + throughout the world, that profess the true religion,[a] and of their children;[b] + and is the kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ,[c] the house and family of + God,[d] out of which there is no ordinary possibility of salvation.[e] + verses: + a: + - Ps.2.8 + - Rom.15.9-Rom.15.12 + - 1Cor.1.2 + - 1Cor.12.12-1Cor.12.13 + - Rev.7.9 + b: + - Gen.3.15 + - Gen.17.7 + - Ezek.16.20-Ezek.16.21 + - Acts.2.39 + - Rom.11.16 + - 1Cor.7.14 + c: + - Isa.9.7 + - Matt.13.47 + d: + - Eph.2.19 + - Eph.3.15 + e: + - Acts.2.47 + - number: 3 + text: > + Unto this catholic visible Church Christ hath given the ministry, oracles, + and ordinances of God, for the gathering and perfecting of the saints, in + this life, to the end of the world: and doth by his own presence and Spirit, + according to his promise, make them effectual thereunto.[a] + verses: + a: + - Isa.59.21 + - Matt.28.19-Matt.28.20 + - 1Cor.12.28 + - Eph.4.11-Eph.4.13 + - number: 4 + text: > + This catholic Church hath been sometimes more, sometimes less visible.[a] + And particular churches, which are members thereof, are more or less pure, + according as the doctrine of the gospel is taught and embraced, ordinances + administered, and public worship performed more or less purely in them.[b] + verses: + a: + - Rom.11.3-Rom.11.4 + - Rev.12.6 + - Rev.12.14 + b: + - 1Cor.5.6-1Cor.5.7 + - Rev.2-Rev.3 + - number: 5 + text: > + The purest churches under heaven are subject both to mixture and error;[a] + and some have so degenerated as to become no churches of Christ, but synagogues + of Satan.[b] Nevertheless, there shall be always a Church on earth to worship + God according to his will.[c] + verses: + a: + - Matt.13.24-Matt.13.30 + - Matt.13.47 + - 1Cor.13.12 + - Rev.2-Rev.3 + b: + - Rom.11.18-Rom.11.22 + - Rev.18.2 + c: + - Ps.72.17 + - Ps.102.28 + - Matt.16.18 + - Matt.28.19-Matt.28.20 + - number: 6 + text: > + There is no other Head of the Church but the Lord Jesus Christ:[a] nor can + the Pope of Rome, in any sense be head thereof; but is that Antichrist, + that man of sin and son of perdition, that exalteth himself in the Church + against Christ, and all that is called God.[b] + verses: + a: + - Eph.1.22 + - Col.1.18 + b: + - Matt.23.8-Matt.23.10 + - 2Thess.2.3-2Thess.2.4 + - 2Thess.2.8-2Thess.2.9 + - Rev.13.6 + - name: Of the Communion of Saints + number: 26 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + All saints that are united to Jesus Christ their head, by his Spirit and + by faith, have fellowship with him in his graces, sufferings, death, resurrection, + and glory:[a] and being united to one another in love, they have communion + in each other's gifts and graces,[b] and are obliged to the performance + of such duties, public and private, as do conduce to their mutual good, + both in the inward and outward man.[c] + verses: + a: + - John.1.16 + - Rom.6.5-Rom.6.6 + - Eph.2.5-Eph.2.6 + - Eph.3.16-Eph.3.19 + - Phil.3.10 + - 2Tim.2.12 + - 1John.1.3 + b: + - 1Cor.3.21-1Cor.3.23 + - 1Cor.12.7 + - Eph.4.15-Eph.4.16 + - Col.2.19 + c: + - Rom.1.11-Rom.1.12 + - Rom.1.14 + - Gal.6.10 + - 1Thess.5.11 + - 1Thess.5.14 + - 1John.3.16-1John.3.18 + - number: 2 + text: > + Saints, by profession, are bound to maintain an holy fellowship and communion + in the worship of God, and in performing such other spiritual services as + tend to their mutual edification;[a] as also in relieving each other in + outward things, according to their several abilities and necessities. Which + communion, as God offereth opportunity, is to be extended unto all those + who, in every place, call upon the name of the Lord Jesus.[b] + verses: + a: + - Isa.2.3 + - Acts.2.42 + - Acts.2.46 + - 1Cor.11.20 + - Heb.10.24-Heb.10.25 + b: + - Acts.2.44-Acts.2.45 + - Acts.11.29-Acts.11.30 + - 2Cor.8-2Cor.9 + - 1John.3.17 + - number: 3 + text: > + This communion which the saints have with Christ, doth not make them in + any wise partakers of the substance of his Godhead, or to be equal with + Christ in any respect: either of which to affirm is impious and blasphemous.[a] + Nor doth their communion one with another, as saints, take away or infringe + the title or propriety which each man hath in his goods and possessions.[b] + verses: + a: + - Ps.45.7 + - Heb.1.8-Heb.1.9 + - Isa.42.8 + - 1Cor.8.6 + - Col.1.18-Col.1.19 + - 1Tim.6.15-1Tim.6.16 + b: + - Exod.20.15 + - Acts.5.4 + - Eph.4.28 + - name: Of the Sacraments + number: 27 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Sacraments are holy signs and seals of the covenant of grace,[a] immediately + instituted by God,[b] to represent Christ and his benefits, and to confirm + our interest in him:[c] as also to put a visible difference between those + that belong unto the Church and the rest of the world;[d] and solemnly to + engage them to the service of God in Christ, according to his Word.[e] + verses: + a: + - Gen.17.7 + - Gen.17.10 + - Rom.4.11 + b: + - Matt.28.19 + - 1Cor.11.23 + c: + - 1Cor.10.16 + - 1Cor.11.25-1Cor.11.26 + - Gal.3.27 + d: + - Gen.34.14 + - Exod.12.48 + - Rom.15.8 + e: + - Rom.6.3-Rom.6.4 + - 1Cor.10.16 + - 1Cor.10.21 + - number: 2 + text: > + There is in every sacrament a spiritual relation or sacramental union, between + the sign and the thing signified; whence it comes to pass that the names + and the effects of the one are attributed to the other.[a] + verses: + a: + - Gen.17.10 + - Matt.26.27-Matt.26.28 + - Titus.3.5 + - number: 3 + text: > + The grace which is exhibited in or by the sacraments, rightly used, is not + conferred by any power in them; neither doth the efficacy of a sacrament + depend upon the piety or intention of him that doth administer it,[a] but + upon the work of the Spirit,[b] and the word of institution, which contains, + together with a precept authorizing the use thereof, a promise of benefit + to worthy receivers.[c] + verses: + a: + - Rom.2.28-Rom.2.29 + - 1Pet.3.21 + b: + - Matt.3.11 + - 1Cor.12.13 + c: + - Matt.26.27-Matt.26.28 + - number: 4 + text: > + There be only two sacraments ordained by Christ our Lord in the Gospel, + that is to say, Baptism and the Supper of the Lord: neither of which may + be dispensed by any but by a minister of the Word lawfully ordained.[a] + verses: + a: + - Matt.28.19-Matt.28.20 + - Matt.28.19 + - 1Cor.4.1 + - 1Cor.11.20 + - 1Cor.11.23 + - Heb.5.4 + - number: 5 + text: > + The sacraments of the Old Testament, in regard of the spiritual things thereby + signified and exhibited, were, for substance, the same with those of the + New.[a] + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.10.1-1Cor.10.4 + - name: Of Baptism + number: 28 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Baptism is a sacrament of the New Testament, ordained by Jesus Christ,[a] + not only for the solemn admission of the party baptized into the visible + Church,[b] but also to be unto him a sign and seal of the covenant of grace,[c] + of his ingrafting into Christ,[d] of regeneration,[e] of remission of sins,[f] + and of his giving up unto God, through Jesus Christ, to walk in newness + of life:[g] which sacrament is, by Christ's own appointment, to be continued + in his Church until the end of the world.[h] + verses: + a: + - Matt.28.19 + b: + - 1Cor.12.13 + c: + - Rom.4.11 + - Col.2.11-Col.2.12 + d: + - Rom.6.5 + - Gal.3.27 + e: + - Titus.3.5 + f: + - Mark.1.4 + g: + - Rom.6.3-Rom.6.4 + h: + - Matt.28.19-Matt.28.20 + - number: 2 + text: > + The outward element to be used in this sacrament is water, wherewith the + party is to be baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of + the Holy Ghost, by a minister of the gospel lawfully called thereunto.[a] + verses: + a: + - Matt.3.11 + - Matt.28.19-Matt.28.20 + - John.1.33 + - number: 3 + text: > + Dipping of the person into the water is not necessary; but baptism is rightly + administered by pouring or sprinkling water upon the person.[a] + verses: + a: + - Mark.7.4 + - Acts.2.41 + - Acts.16.33 + - Heb.9.10 + - Heb.9.19-Heb.9.22 + - number: 4 + text: > + Not only those that do actually profess faith in and obedience unto Christ,[a] + but also the infants of one or both believing parents are to be baptized.[b] + verses: + a: + - Mark.16.15-Mark.16.16 + - Acts.8.37-Acts.8.38 + b: + - Gen.17.7 + - Gen.17.9 + - Gal.3.9 + - Gal.3.14 + - Col.2.11-Col.2.12 + - Acts.2.38-Acts.2.39 + - Rom.4.11-Rom.4.12 + - Matt.28.19 + - Mark.10.13-Mark.10.16 + - Luke.18.15 + - 1Cor.7.14 + - number: 5 + text: > + Although it be a great sin to contemn or neglect this ordinance,[a] yet + grace and salvation are not so inseparably annexed unto it, as that no person + can be regenerated or saved without it,[b] or that all that are baptized + are undoubtedly regenerated.[c] + verses: + a: + - Luke.7.30 + - Exod.4.24-Exod.4.26 + b: + - Acts.10.2 + - Acts.10.4 + - Acts.10.22 + - Acts.10.31 + - Acts.10.45 + - Acts.10.47 + - Rom.4.11 + c: + - Acts.8.13 + - Acts.8.23 + - number: 6 + text: > + The efficacy of baptism is not tied to that moment of time wherein it is + administered;[a] yet, notwithstanding, by the right use of this ordinance + the grace promised is not only offered, but really exhibited and conferred + by the Holy Ghost, to such (whether of age or infants) as that grace belongeth + unto, according to the counsel of God's own will, in his appointed time.[b] + verses: + a: + - John.3.5 + - John.3.8 + b: + - Acts.2.38 + - Acts.2.41 + - Gal.3.27 + - Eph.5.25-Eph.5.26 + - Titus.3.5 + - number: 7 + text: The sacrament of baptism is but once to be administered to any person.[a] + verses: + a: + - Titus.3.5 + - name: Of the Lord's Supper + number: 29 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + Our Lord Jesus, in the night wherein he was betrayed, instituted the sacrament + of his body and blood, called the Lord's Supper, to be observed in his Church, + unto the end of the world; for the perpetual remembrance of the sacrifice + of himself in his death, the sealing all benefits thereof unto true believers, + their spiritual nourishment and growth in him, their further engagement + in and to all duties which they owe unto him; and to be a bond and pledge + of their communion with him, and with each other, as members of his mystical + body.[a] + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.10.16-1Cor.10.17 + - 1Cor.10.21 + - 1Cor.11.23-1Cor.11.26 + - 1Cor.12.13 + - number: 2 + text: > + In this sacrament Christ is not offered up to his Father, nor any real sacrifice + made at all for remission of sins of the quick or dead,[a] but only a commemoration + of that one offering up of himself, by himself, upon the cross, once for + all, and a spiritual oblation of all possible praise unto God for the same;[b] + so that the Popish sacrifice of the mass, as they call it, is most abominably + injurious to Christ's one only sacrifice, the alone propitiation for all + the sins of the elect.[c] + verses: + a: + - Heb.9.22 + - Heb.9.25-Heb.9.26 + - Heb.9.28 + b: + - Matt.26.26-Matt.26.27 + - 1Cor.11.24-1Cor.11.26 + c: + - Heb.7.23-Heb.7.24 + - Heb.7.27 + - Heb.10.11-Heb.10.12 + - Heb.10.14 + - Heb.10.18 + - number: 3 + text: > + The Lord Jesus hath, in this ordinance, appointed his ministers to declare + his word of institution to the people, to pray, and bless the elements of + bread and wine, and thereby to set them apart from a common to an holy use; + and to take and break the bread, to take the cup, and (they communicating + also themselves) to give both to the communicants;[a] but to none who are + not then present in the congregation.[b] + verses: + a: + - Matt.26.26-Matt.26.28 + - Mark.14.22-Mark.14.24 + - Luke.22.19-Luke.22.20 + - 1Cor.11.23-1Cor.11.27 + b: + - Acts.20.7 + - 1Cor.11.20 + - number: 4 + text: > + Private masses, or receiving this sacrament by a priest, or any other, alone;[a] + as likewise the denial of the cup to the people;[b] worshipping the elements, + the lifting them up, or carrying them about for adoration, and the reserving + them for any pretended religious use, are all contrary to the nature of + this sacrament, and to the institution of Christ.[c] + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.10.6 + b: + - Mark.4.23 + - 1Cor.11.25-1Cor.11.29 + c: + - Matt.15.9 + - number: 5 + text: > + The outward elements in this sacrament, duly set apart to the uses ordained + by Christ, have such relation to him crucified, as that truly, yet sacramentally + only, they are sometimes called by the name of the things they represent, + to wit, the body and blood of Christ;[a] albeit, in substance and nature, + they still remain truly, and only, bread and wine, as they were before.[b] + verses: + a: + - Matt.26.26-Matt.26.28 + b: + - Matt.26.29 + - 1Cor.11.26-1Cor.11.28 + - number: 6 + text: > + That doctrine which maintains a change of the substance of bread and wine, + into the substance of Christ's body and blood (commonly called transubstantiation) + by consecration of a priest, or by any other way, is repugnant, not to Scripture + alone, but even to common sense and reason; overthroweth the nature of the + sacrament; and hath been, and is the cause of manifold superstitions, yea, + of gross idolatries.[a] + verses: + a: + - Luke.24.6 + - Luke.24.39 + - Acts.3.21 + - 1Cor.11.24-1Cor.11.26 + - number: 7 + text: > + Worthy receivers, outwardly partaking of the visible elements in this sacrament,[a] + do then also inwardly by faith, really and indeed, yet not carnally and + corporally, but spiritually, receive and feed upon Christ crucified, and + all benefits of his death: the body and blood of Christ being then not corporally + or carnally in, with, or under the bread and wine; yet as really, but spiritually, + present to the faith of believers in that ordinance, as the elements themselves + are, to their outward senses.[b] + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.11.28 + b: + - 1Cor.10.16 + - number: 8 + text: > + Although ignorant and wicked men receive the outward elements in this sacrament, + yet they receive not the thing signified thereby; but by their unworthy + coming thereunto are guilty of the body and blood of the Lord, to their + own damnation. Wherefore all ignorant and ungodly persons, as they are unfit + to enjoy communion with him, so are they unworthy of the Lord's table, and + can not, without great sin against Christ, while they remain such, partake + of these holy mysteries,[a] or be admitted thereunto.[b] + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.11.27-1Cor.11.29 + - 2Cor.6.14-2Cor.6.16 + b: + - Matt.7.6 + - 1Cor.5.6-1Cor.5.7 + - 1Cor.5.13 + - 2Thess.3.6 + - 2Thess.3.14-2Thess.3.15 + - name: Of Church Censures + number: 30 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + The Lord Jesus, as king and head of his Church, hath therein appointed a + government in the hand of Church officers, distinct from the civil magistrate.[a] + verses: + a: + - Isa.9.6-Isa.9.7 + - Matt.28.18-Matt.28.20 + - Acts.20.17 + - Acts.20.28 + - 1Cor.12.28 + - 1Thess.5.12 + - 1Tim.5.17 + - Heb.13.7 + - Heb.13.17 + - Heb.13.24 + - number: 2 + text: > + To these officers the keys of the kingdom of heaven are committed, by virtue + whereof they have power respectively to retain and remit sins, to shut that + kingdom against the impenitent, both by the Word and censures; and to open + it unto penitent sinners, by the ministry of the gospel, and by absolution + from censures, as occasion shall require.[a] + verses: + a: + - Matt.16.19 + - Matt.18.17-Matt.18.18 + - John.20.21-John.20.23 + - 2Cor.2.6-2Cor.2.8 + - number: 3 + text: > + Church censures are necessary for the reclaiming and gaining of offending + brethren; for deterring of others from the like offenses; for purging out + of that leaven which might infect the whole lump; for vindicating the honor + of Christ, and the holy profession of the gospel; and for preventing the + wrath of God, which might justly fall upon the Church, if they should suffer + his covenant, and the seals thereof, to be profaned by notorious and obstinate + offenders.[a] + verses: + a: + - Matt.7.6 + - 1Cor.5 + - 1Cor.11.27-1Cor.11.34 + - Jude.1.23 + - 1Tim.1.20 + - 1Tim.5.20 + - number: 4 + text: > + For the better attaining of these ends, the officers of the Church are to + proceed by admonition, suspension from the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper + for a season, and by excommunication from the Church, according to the nature + of the crime and demerit of the person.[a] + verses: + a: + - Matt.18.17 + - 1Cor.5.4-1Cor.5.5 + - 1Cor.5.13 + - 1Thess.5.12 + - 2Thess.3.6 + - 2Thess.3.14-2Thess.3.15 + - Titus.3.10 + - name: Of Synods and Councils + number: 31 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + For the better government and further edification of the Church, there ought + to be such assemblies as are commonly called synods or councils.[a] + verses: + a: + - Acts.15.2 + - Acts.15.4 + - Acts.15.6 + - number: 2 + text: > + As magistrates may lawfully call a synod of ministers and other fit persons + to consult and advise with about matters of religion;[a] so, if magistrates + be open enemies to the Church, the ministers of Christ, of themselves, by + virtue of their office, or they, with other fit persons, upon delegation + from their churches, may meet together in such assemblies.[b] + verses: + a: + - Isa.49.23 + - 2Chr.19.8-2Chr.19.11 + - 2Chr.29-2Chr.30 + - Prov.11.14 + - Matt.2.4-Matt.2.5 + - 1Tim.2.1-1Tim.2.2 + b: + - Acts.15.2 + - Acts.15.4 + - Acts.15.22-Acts.15.23 + - Acts.15.25 + - number: 3 + text: > + It belongeth to synods and councils, ministerially, to determine controversies + of faith, and cases of conscience; to set down rules and directions for + the better ordering of the public worship of God, and government of his + Church; to receive complaints in cases of maladministration, and authoritatively + to determine the same: which decrees and determinations, if consonant to + the Word of God, are to be received with reverence and submission, not only + for their agreement with the Word, but also for the power whereby they are + made, as being an ordinance of God, appointed thereunto in his Word.[a] + verses: + a: + - Matt.18.17-Matt.18.20 + - Acts.15.15 + - Acts.15.19 + - Acts.15.24 + - Acts.15.27-Acts.15.31 + - Acts.16.4 + - number: 4 + text: > + All synods or councils since the apostles' times, whether general or particular, + may err, and many have erred; therefore they are not to be made the rule + of faith or practice, but to be used as a help in both.[a] + verses: + a: + - Acts.17.11 + - 1Cor.2.5 + - 2Cor.1.24 + - Eph.2.20 + - number: 5 + text: > + Synods and councils are to handle or conclude nothing but that which is + ecclesiastical: and are not to intermeddle with civil affairs which concern + the commonwealth, unless by way of humble petition in cases extraordinary; + or by way of advice, for satisfaction of conscience, if they be thereunto + required by the civil magistrate.[a] + verses: + a: + - Luke.12.13-Luke.12.14 + - John.18.36 + - name: Of the State of Men after Death, and of the Resurrection of the Dead + number: 32 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + The bodies of men, after death, return to dust, and see corruption;[a] but + their souls (which neither die nor sleep), having an immortal subsistence,[b] + immediately return to God who gave them. The souls of the righteous, being + then made perfect in holiness, are received into the highest heavens, where + they behold the face of God in light and glory, waiting for the full redemption + of their bodies:[c] and the souls of the wicked are cast into hell, where + they remain in torments and utter darkness, reserved to the judgment of + the great day.[d] Besides these two places for souls separated from their + bodies, the Scripture acknowledgeth none. + verses: + a: + - Gen.3.19 + - Acts.13.36 + b: + - Eccl.12.7 + - Luke.23.43 + c: + - Phil.1.23 + - Acts.3.21 + - Eph.4.10 + - 2Cor.5.1 + - 2Cor.5.6 + - 2Cor.5.8 + - Heb.12.23 + d: + - Luke.16.23-Luke.16.24 + - Acts.1.25 + - 1Pet.3.19 + - Jude.1.6-Jude.1.7 + - number: 2 + text: > + At the last day, such as are found alive shall not die, but be changed;[a] + and all the dead shall be raised up with the self-same bodies, and none + other, although with different qualities, which shall be united again to + their souls forever.[b] + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.15.51-1Cor.15.52 + - 1Thess.4.17 + b: + - Job.19.26-Job.19.27 + - 1Cor.15.42-1Cor.15.44 + - number: 3 + text: > + The bodies of the unjust shall, by the power of Christ, be raised to dishonor; + the bodies of the just, by his Spirit, unto honor, and be made conformable + to his own glorious body.[a] + verses: + a: + - John.5.28-John.5.29 + - Acts.24.15 + - 1Cor.15.42 + - Phil.3.21 + - name: Of the Last Judgment + number: 33 + articles: + - number: 1 + text: > + God hath appointed a day wherein he will judge the world in + righteousness by Jesus Christ,[a] to whom all power and judgment is + given of the Father.[b] In which day, not only the apostate angels + shall be judged,[c] but likewise all persons, that have lived upon + earth, shall appear before the tribunal of Christ, to give an account + of their thoughts, words, and deeds; and to receive according to what + they have done in the body, whether good or evil.[d] + verses: + a: + - Acts.17.31 + b: + - John.5.22 + c: + - 1Cor.6.3 + - 2Pet.2.4 + - Jude.1.6 + d: + - Eccl.12.14 + - Matt.12.36-Matt.12.37 + - Rom.2.16 + - Rom.14.10 + - Rom.14.12 + - 2Cor.5.12 + - number: 2 + text: > + The end of God’s appointing this day, is for the manifestation of the + glory of his mercy in the eternal salvation of the elect;[a] and of + his justice in the damnation of the reprobate, who are wicked and + disobedient.[b] For then shall the righteous go into everlasting life, + and receive that fulness of joy and refreshing which shall come from + the presence of the Lord:[c] but the wicked, who know not God, and + obey not the gospel of Jesus Christ, shall be cast into eternal + torments, and be punished with everlasting destruction from the + presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power.[d] + verses: + a: + - Matt.25.21 + - Rom.9.23 + b: + - Rom.2.5-Rom.2.6 + - Rom.9.22 + - 2Thess.1.7-2Thess.1.8 + c: + - Matt.25.31-Matt.25.24 + - Acts.3.19 + - 2Thess.1.7 + d: + - Matt.25.41 + - Matt.25.46 + - 2Thess.1.9 + - number: 3 + text: > + + As Christ would have us to be certainly persuaded that there shall be + a day of judgment, both to deter all men from sin, and for the greater + consolation of the godly in their adversity:[a] so will he have that day + unknown to men, that they may shake off all carnal security, and be + always watchful, because they know not at what hour the Lord will + come; and may be ever prepared to say, Come, Lord Jesus, come + quickly. Amen.[b] + verses: + a: + - Luke.21.27-Luke.21.28 + - Rom.8.23-Rom.8.25 + - 2Cor.5.10-2Cor.5.11 + - 2Thess.1.5-2Thess.1.7 + - 2Pet.3.11 + - 2Pet.3.14 + b: + - Matt.24.36 + - Matt.24.42-Matt.24.44 + - Mark.13.35-Mark.13.37 + - Luke.12.35-Luke.12.36 + - Rev.22.20 + +... diff --git a/data/westminster/wlc.yaml b/data/westminster/wlc.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..ab719115e2fb1bb9b5f5373bacb50d57910062e8 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/westminster/wlc.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,5959 @@ +--- +name: Westminster Larger Catechism +publication_year: 1646 +type: catechism +image: wlc.jpg +markdown: true +questions: + - question: >- + What is the chief and highest end of man? + number: 1 + answer: >- + Man's chief and highest end is to glorify God,[1] and fully to enjoy + him forever.[2] + verses: + 1: + - Rom.11.36 + - 1Cor.10.31 + 2: + - Ps.73.24-Ps.73.28 + - John.17.21-John.17.23 + - question: >- + How doth it appear that there is a God? + number: 2 + answer: >- + The very light of nature in man, and the works of God, declare plainly + that there is a God;[1] but his word and Spirit only do sufficiently + and effectually reveal him unto men for their salvation.[2] + verses: + 1: + - Rom.1.19-Rom.1.20 + - Ps.19.1-Ps.19.3 + - Acts.17.28 + 2: + - 1Cor.2.9-1Cor.2.10 + - 2Tim.3.15-2Tim.3.17 + - Isa.59.21 + - question: >- + What is the word of God? + number: 3 + answer: >- + The holy scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the word of + God,[1] the only rule of faith and obedience.[2] + verses: + 1: + - 2Tim.3.16 + - 2Pet.1.19-2Pet.1.21 + 2: + - Eph.2.20 + - Rev.22.18-Rev.22.19 + - Isa.8.20 + - Luke.16.29,Luke.16.31 + - Gal.1.8-Gal.1.9 + - 2Tim.3.15-2Tim.3.16 + - question: >- + How doth it appear that the scriptures are the word of God? + number: 4 + answer: >- + The scriptures manifest themselves to be the word of God, by their + majesty [1] and purity;[2] by the consent of all the parts,[3] and the + scope of the whole, which is to give all glory to God;[4] by their + light and power to convince and convert sinners, to comfort and build + up believers unto salvation:[5] but the Spirit of God bearing witness + by and with the scriptures in the heart of man, is alone able fully to + persuade it that they are the very word of God.[6] + verses: + 1: + - Hos.8.12 + - 1Cor.2.6-1Cor.2.7,1Cor.2.13 + - Ps.119.18,Ps.119.129 + 2: + - Ps.12.6 + - Ps.119.140 + 3: + - Acts.10.43 + - Acts.26.22 + 4: + - Rom.3.19,Rom.3.27 + 5: + - Acts.18.28 + - Heb.4.12 + - Jas.1.18 + - Ps.19.7-Ps.19.9 + - Rom.15.4 + - Acts.20.32 + 6: + - John.16.13-John.16.14 + - 1John.2.20,1John.2.27 + - John.20.31 + - question: >- + What do the scriptures principally teach? + number: 5 + answer: >- + The scriptures principally teach, what man is to believe concerning + God, and what duty God requires of man.[1] + verses: + 1: + - 2Tim.1.13 + - question: >- + What do the scriptures make known of God? + number: 6 + answer: >- + The scriptures make known what God is,[1] the persons in the + Godhead,[2] his decrees,[3] and the execution of his decrees.[4] + verses: + 1: + - Heb.11.6 + 2: + - Matt.3.16-Matt.3.17 + 3: + - Acts.15.14-Acts.15.15,Acts.15.17-Acts.15.18 + - Isa.46.9 + 4: + - Acts.4.27-Acts.4.28 + - question: >- + What is God? + number: 7 + answer: >- + God is a Spirit,[1] in and of himself infinite in being,[2] glory,[3] + blessedness,[4] and perfection;[5] all-sufficient,[6] eternal,[7] + unchangeable,[8] incomprehensible,[9] everywhere present,[10] + almighty,[11] knowing all things,[12] most wise,[13] most holy,[14] + most just,[15] most merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and + abundant in goodness and truth.[16] + verses: + 1: + - John.4.24 + 2: + - Exod.3.14 + - Job.11.7-Job.11.9 + 3: + - Acts.7.2 + 4: + - 1Tim.6.15 + 5: + - Matt.5.48 + 6: + - Gen.17.1 + 7: + - Ps.90.2 + 8: + - Mal.3.6 + 9: + - 1Kgs.8.27 + 10: + - Ps.139.1-Ps.139.13 + 11: + - Rev.4.8 + 12: + - Heb.4.13 + - Ps.147.5 + 13: + - Rom.16.27 + 14: + - Isa.6.3 + - Rev.15.4 + 15: + - Deut.32.4 + 16: + - Exod.34.6 + - question: >- + Are there more Gods than one? + number: 8 + answer: >- + There is but one only, the living and true God.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Deut.6.4 + - 1Cor.8.4,1Cor.8.6 + - Jer.10.10 + - question: >- + How many persons are there in the Godhead? + number: 9 + answer: >- + There be three persons in the Godhead, the Father, the Son, and the + Holy Ghost; and these three are one true, eternal God, the same in + substance, equal in power and glory; although distinguished by their + personal properties.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.3.16-Matt.3.17 + - Matt.28.19 + - 2Cor.13.14 + - John.10.30 + - question: >- + What are the personal properties of the three persons in the Godhead? + number: 10 + answer: >- + It is proper to the Father to beget the Son,[1] and to the Son to be + begotten of the Father,[2] and to the Holy Ghost to proceed from the + Father and the Son from all eternity.[3] + verses: + 1: + - Heb.1.5-Heb.1.6,Heb.1.8 + 2: + - John.1.14,John.1.18 + 3: + - John.15.26 + - Gal.4.6 + - question: >- + How doth it appear that the Son and the Holy Ghost are God equal with + the Father? + number: 11 + answer: >- + The scriptures manifest that the Son and the Holy Ghost are God equal + with the Father, ascribing unto them such names,[1] attributes,[2] + works,[3] and worship,[4] as are proper to God only. + verses: + 1: + - Isa.6.3,Isa.6.5,Isa.6.8 + - John.12.41 + - Acts.28.25 + - 1John.5.20 + - Acts.5.3-Acts.5.4 + 2: + - John.1.1 + - Isa.9.6 + - John.2.24-John.2.25 + - 1Cor.2.10-1Cor.2.11 + 3: + - Col.1.16 + - Gen.1.2 + 4: + - Matt.28.19 + - 2Cor.13.14 + - question: >- + What are the decrees of God? + number: 12 + answer: >- + God's decrees are the wise, free, and holy acts of the counsel of his + will,[1] whereby, from all eternity, he hath, for his own glory, + unchangeably foreordained: Whatsoever comes to pass in time,[2] + especially concerning angels and men. + verses: + 1: + - Eph.1.11 + - Rom.11.33 + - Rom.9.14-Rom.9.15,Rom.9.18 + 2: + - Eph.1.4,Eph.1.11 + - Rom.9.22-Rom.9.23 + - Ps.33.11 + - question: >- + What hath God especially decreed concerning angels and men? + number: 13 + answer: >- + God, by an eternal and immutable decree, out of his mere love, for the + praise of his glorious grace, to be manifested in due time, hath + elected some angels to glory;[1] and in Christ hath chosen some men to + eternal life, and the means thereof:[2] and also, according to his + sovereign power, and the unsearchable counsel of his own will (whereby + he extendeth or withholdeth favor as he pleases), hath passed by and + foreordained the rest to dishonor and wrath, to be for their sin + inflicted, to the praise of the glory of his justice.[3] + verses: + 1: + - 1Tim.5.21 + 2: + - Eph.1.4-Eph.1.6 + - 2Thess.2.13-2Thess.2.14 + 3: + - Rom.9.17-Rom.9.18,Rom.9.21-Rom.9.22 + - Matt.11.25-Matt.11.26 + - 2Tim.2.20 + - Jude.1.4 + - 1Pet.2.8 + - question: >- + How doth God execute his decrees? + number: 14 + answer: >- + God executeth his decrees in the works of creation and providence, + according to his infallible foreknowledge, and the free and immutable + counsel of his own will.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Eph.1.11 + - question: >- + What is the work of creation? + number: 15 + answer: >- + The work of creation is that wherein God did in the beginning, by the + word of his power, make of nothing the world, and all things therein, + for himself, within the space of six days, and all very good.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Gen.1 + - Heb.11.3 + - Prov.16.4 + - question: >- + How did God create angels? + number: 16 + answer: >- + God created all the angels[1] spirits,[2] immortal,[3] holy,[4] + excelling in knowledge,[5] mighty in power,[6] to execute his + commandments, and to praise his name,[7] yet subject to change.[8] + verses: + 1: + - Col.1.16 + 2: + - Ps.104.4 + 3: + - Matt.22.30 + 4: + - Matt.25.31 + 5: + - 2Sam.14.17 + - Matt.24.36 + 6: + - 2Thess.1.7 + 7: + - Ps.103.20-Ps.103.21 + 8: + - 2Pet.2.4 + - question: >- + How did God create man? + number: 17 + answer: >- + After God had made all other creatures, he created man male and + female;[1] formed the body of the man of the dust of the ground,[2] + and the woman of the rib of the man,[3] endued them with living, + reasonable, and immortal souls;[4] made them after his own image,[5] + in knowledge,[6] righteousness,and holiness;[7] having the law of God + written in their hearts,[8] and power to fulfil it,[9] and dominion + over the creatures;[10] yet subject to fall.[11] + verses: + 1: + - Gen.1.27 + 2: + - Gen.2.7 + 3: + - Gen.2.22 + 4: + - Gen.2.7 + - Job.35.11 + - Eccl.12.7 + - Matt.10.28 + - Luke.23.43 + 5: + - Gen.1.27 + 6: + - Col.3.10 + 7: + - Eph.4.24 + 8: + - Rom.2.14-Rom.2.15 + 9: + - Eccl.7.29 + 10: + - Gen.1.28 + 11: + - Gen.3.6 + - Eccl.7.29 + - question: >- + What are God's works of providence? + number: 18 + answer: >- + God's works of providence are his most holy,[1] wise,[2] and powerful + preserving[3] and governing[4] all his creatures; ordering them, and + all their actions,[5] to his own glory.[6] + verses: + 1: + - Ps.145.17 + 2: + - Ps.104.24 + - Isa.28.29 + 3: + - Heb.1.3 + 4: + - Ps.103.19 + 5: + - Matt.10.29-Matt.10.31 + - Gen.45.7 + 6: + - Rom.11.36 + - Isa.63.14 + - question: >- + What is God's providence towards the angels? + number: 19 + answer: >- + God by his providence permitted some of the angels, wilfully and + irrecoverably, to fall into sin and damnation,[1] limiting and + ordering that, and all their sins, to his own glory;[2] and + established the rest in holiness and happiness;[3] employing them + all,[4] at his pleasure, in the administrations of his power, mercy, + and justice.[5] + verses: + 1: + - Jude.1.6 + - 2Pet.2.4 + - Heb.2.1 + - John.8.44 + 2: + - Job.1.12 + - Matt.8.31 + 3: + - 1Tim.5.21 + - Mark.8.38 + - Heb.12.22 + 4: + - Ps.104.4 + 5: + - 2Kgs.19.35 + - Heb.1.14 + - question: >- + What was the providence of God toward man in the estate in which he + was created? + number: 20 + answer: >- + The providence of God toward man in the estate in which he was + created, was the placing him in paradise, appointing him to dress it, + giving him liberty to eat of the fruit of the earth;[1] putting the + creatures under his dominion,[2] and ordaining marriage for his + help;[3] affording him communion with himself;[4] instituting the + sabbath;[5] entering into a covenant of life with him, upon condition + of personal, perfect, and perpetual obedience,[6] of which the tree of + life was a pledge;[7] and forbidding to eat of the tree of the + knowledge of good and evil, upon the pain of death.[8] + verses: + 1: + - Gen.2.8,Gen.2.15-Gen.2.16 + 2: + - Gen.1.28 + 3: + - Gen.2.18 + 4: + - Gen.1.26-Gen.1.29 + - Gen.3.8 + 5: + - Gen.2.3 + 6: + - Gal.3.12 + - Rom.10.5 + 7: + - Gen.2.9 + 8: + - Gen.2.17 + - question: >- + Did man continue in that estate wherein God at first created him? + number: 21 + answer: >- + Our first parents being left to the freedom of their own will, through + the temptation of Satan, transgressed the commandment of God in eating + the forbidden fruit; and thereby fell from the estate of innocency + wherein they were created.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Gen.3.6-Gen.3.8,Gen.3.13 + - question: >- + Did all mankind fall in that first transgression ? + number: 22 + answer: >- + The covenant being made with Adam as a public person, not for himself + only, but for his posterity, all mankind descending from him by + ordinary generation,[1] sinned in him, and fell with him in that first + transgression.[2] + verses: + 1: + - Acts.17.26 + 2: + - Gen.2.16-Gen.2.17 + - Rom.5.12-Rom.5.20 + - 1Cor.15.21-1Cor.15.22 + - question: >- + Into what estate did the fall bring mankind? + number: 23 + answer: >- + The fall brought mankind into an estate of sin and misery.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Rom.5.12 + - question: >- + What is sin? + number: 24 + answer: >- + Sin is any want of conformity unto, or transgression of, any law of + God, given as a rule to the reasonable creature.[1] + verses: + 1: + - 1John.3.4 + - Gal.3.10,Gal.3.12 + - question: >- + Wherein consists the sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell? + number: 25 + answer: >- + The sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell, consisteth in the + guilt of Adam's first sin,[1] the want of that righteousness wherein + he was created, and the corruption of his nature, whereby he is + utterly indisposed, disabled, and made opposite unto all that is + spiritually good, and wholly inclined to all evil, and that + continually;[2] which is commonly called Original Sin, and from which + do proceed all actual transgressions.[3] + verses: + 1: + - Rom.5.12,Rom.5.19 + 2: + - Rom.3.10-Rom.3.19 + - Eph.2.1-Eph.2.3 + - Rom.5.6 + - Rom.8.7-Rom.8.8 + - Gen.6.5 + 3: + - Jas.1.14-Jas.1.15 + - Matt.15.19 + - question: >- + How is original sin conveyed from our first parents unto their + posterity? + number: 26 + answer: >- + Original sin is conveyed from our first parents unto their posterity + by natural generation, so as all that proceed from them in that way + are conceived and born in sin.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Ps.51.5 + - Job.14.4 + - John.3.6 + - question: >- + What misery did the fall bring upon mankind? + number: 27 + answer: >- + The fall brought upon mankind the loss of communion with God,[1] his + displeasure and curse; so as we are by nature children of wrath,[2] + bond slaves to Satan,[3] and justly liable to all punishments in this + world, and that which is to come.[4] + verses: + 1: + - Gen.3.8,Gen.3.10,Gen.3.24 + 2: + - Eph.2.2-Eph.2.3 + 3: + - 2Tim.2.26 + 4: + - Gen.2.17 + - Lam.3.39 + - Rom.6.23 + - Matt.25.41,Matt.25.46 + - Jude.1.7 + - question: >- + What are the punishments of sin in this world? + number: 28 + answer: >- + The punishments of sin in this world are either inward, as blindness + of mind,[1] a reprobate sense,[2] strong delusions,[3] hardness of + heart,[4] horror of conscience,[5] and vile affections;[6] or outward, + as the curse of God upon the creatures for our sakes,[7] and all other + evils that befall us in our bodies, names, estates, relations, and + employments;[8] together with death itself.[9] + verses: + 1: + - Eph.4.18 + 2: + - Rom.1.28 + 3: + - 2Thess.2.11 + 4: + - Rom.2.5 + 5: + - Isa.33.14 + - Gen.4.13 + - Matt.27.4 + 6: + - Rom.1.26 + 7: + - Gen.3.17 + 8: + - Deut.28.15-Deut.28.18 + 9: + - Rom.6.21,Rom.6.23 + - question: >- + What are the punishments of sin in the world to come? + number: 29 + answer: >- + The punishments of sin in the world to come, are everlasting + separation from the comfortable presence of God, and most grievous + torments in soul and body, without intermission, in hell fire + forever.[1] + verses: + 1: + - 2Thess.1.9 + - Mark.9.43-Mark.9.44,Mark.9.48 + - Luke.16.24 + - question: >- + Doth God leave all mankind to perish in the estate of sin and misery? + number: 30 + answer: >- + God doth not leave all men to perish in the estate of sin and + misery,[1] into which they fell by the breach of the first covenant, + commonly called the Covenant of Works;[2] but of his mere love and + mercy delivereth his elect out of it, and bringeth them into an estate + of salvation by the second covenant, commonly called the Covenant of + Grace.[3] + verses: + 1: + - 1Thess.5.9 + 2: + - Gal.3.10,Gal.3.12 + 3: + - Titus.3.4-Titus.3.7 + - Gal.3.21 + - Rom.3.20-Rom.3.22 + - question: >- + With whom was the covenant of grace made? + number: 31 + answer: >- + The covenant of grace was made with Christ as the second Adam, and in + him with all the elect as his seed.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Gal.3.16 + - Rom.5.15-Rom.5.21 + - Isa.53.10-Isa.53.11 + - question: >- + How is the grace of God manifested in the second covenant? + number: 32 + answer: >- + The grace of God is manifested in the second covenant, in that he + freely provideth and offereth to sinners a Mediator,[1] and life and + salvation by him;[2] and requiring faith as the condition to interest + them in him, promiseth and giveth his Holy Spirit [3] to all his + elect, to work in them that faith,[4] with all other saving graces;[5] + and to enable them unto all holy obedience,[5] as the evidence of the + truth of their faith [6] and thankfulness to God,[7] and as the way + which he hath appointed them to salvation.[8] + verses: + 1: + - Gen.3.15 + - Isa.42.6 + - John.6.27 + 2: + - 1John.5.11-1John.5.12 + 3: + - John.3.16 + - John.1.12 + 4: + - Prov.1.23 + 5: + - 2Cor.4.13 + 6: + - Gal.5.22-Gal.5.23 + 7: + - Ezek.36.27 + 8: + - Jas.2.18,Jas.2.22 + 9: + - 2Cor.5.14-2Cor.5.15 + 10: + - Eph.2.18 + - question: >- + Was the covenant of grace always administered after one and the same + manner? + number: 33 + answer: >- + The covenant of grace was not always administered after the same + manner, but the administrations of it under the Old Testament were + different from those under the New.[1] + verses: + 1: + - 2Cor.3.6-2Cor.3.9 + - question: >- + How was the covenant of grace administered under the Old Testament? + number: 34 + answer: >- + The covenant of grace was administered under the Old Testament, by + promises,[1] prophecies, [2] sacrifices,[3] circumcision,[4] the + passover,[5] and other types and ordinances, which did all foresignify + Christ then to come, and were for that time sufficient to build up the + elect in faith in the promised Messiah,[6] by whom they then had full + remission of sin, and eternal salvation.[7] + verses: + 1: + - Rom.15.8 + 2: + - Acts.3.20,Acts.3.24 + 3: + - Heb.10.1 + 4: + - Rom.4.11 + 5: + - 1Cor.5.7 + 6: + - Heb.8-Heb.10 + - Heb.11.13 + 7: + - Gal.3.7-Gal.3.9,Gal.3.14 + - question: >- + How is the covenant of grace administered under the New Testament? + number: 35 + answer: >- + Under the New Testament, when Christ the substance was exhibited, the + same covenant of grace was and still is to be administered in the + preaching of the word,[1] and the administration of the sacraments of + Baptism[2] and the Lord's Supper;[3] in which grace and salvation are + held forth in more fulness, evidence, and efficacy, to all nations.[4] + verses: + 1: + - Mark.16.1 + 2: + - Matt.28.19-Matt.28.20 + 3: + - 1Cor.11.23-1Cor.11.25 + 4: + - 2Cor.3.6-2Cor.3.9 + - Heb.8.6,Heb.8.10-Heb.8.11 + - question: >- + Who is the Mediator of the covenant of grace? + number: 36 + answer: >- + The only Mediator of the covenant of grace is the Lord Jesus + Christ,[1] who, being the eternal Son of God, of one substance and + equal with the Father,[2] in the fulness of time became man,[3] and so + was and continues to be God and man, in two entire distinct natures, + and one person, forever.[4] + verses: + 1: + - 1Tim.2.5 + 2: + - John.1.1,John.1.14 + - John.10.30 + - Phil.2.6 + 3: + - Gal.4.4 + 4: + - Luke.1.35 + - Rom.9.5 + - Col.2.9 + - Heb.7.24-Heb.7.25 + - question: >- + How did Christ, being the Son of God, become man? + number: 37 + answer: >- + Christ the Son of God became man, by taking to himself a true body, + and a reasonable soul,[1] being conceived by the power of the Holy + Ghost in the womb of the virgin Mary, of her substance, and born of + her,[2] yet without sin.[3] + verses: + 1: + - John.1.14 + - Matt.26.38 + 2: + - Luke.1.27,Luke.1.31,Luke.1.35,Luke.1.42 + - Gal.4.4 + 3: + - Heb.4.15 + - Heb.7.26 + - question: >- + Why was it requisite that the Mediator should be God? + number: 38 + answer: >- + It was requisite that the Mediator should be God, that he might + sustain and keep the human nature from sinking under the infinite + wrath of God, and the power of death;[1] give worth and efficacy to + his sufferings, obedience, and intercession;[2] and to satisfy God's + justice,[3] procure his favor,[4] purchase a peculiar people,[5] give + his Spirit to them,[6] conquer all their enemies,[7] and bring them to + everlasting salvation.[8] + verses: + 1: + - Acts.2.24-Acts.2.25 + - Rom.1.4 + - Rom.4.25 + - Heb.9.14 + 2: + - Acts.20.28 + - Heb.9.14 + - Heb.7.25-Heb.7.28 + 3: + - Rom.3.24-Rom.3.26 + 4: + - Eph.1.6 + - Matt.3.17 + 5: + - Titus.2.13,Titus.2.1 + 6: + - Gal.4.6 + 7: + - Luke.1.68-Luke.1.69,Luke.1.71,Luke.1.74 + 8: + - Heb.5.8-Heb.5.9 + - Heb.9.11-Heb.9.15 + - question: >- + Why was it requisite that the Mediator should be man? + number: 39 + answer: >- + It was requisite that the Mediator should be man, that he might + advance our nature,[1] perform obedience to the law,[2] suffer and + make intercession for us in our nature,[3] have a fellow feeling of + our infirmities;[4] that we might receive the adoption of sons,[5] and + have comfort and access with boldness unto the throne of grace.[6] + verses: + 1: + - 2Pet.1.4 + 2: + - Gal.4.4 + 3: + - Heb.2.14 + - Heb.7.24-Heb.7.25 + 4: + - Heb.4.15 + 5: + - Gal.4.5 + 6: + - Heb.4.16 + - question: >- + Why was it requisite that the Mediator should be God and man in one + person ? + number: 40 + answer: >- + It was requisite that the Mediator, who was to reconcile God and man, + should himself be both God and man, and this in one person, that the + proper works of each nature might be accepted of God for us, and + relied on by us,[1] as the works of the whole person.[2] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.1.21,Matt.1.23 + - Matt.3.17 + - Heb.9.14 + 2: + - 1Pet.2.6 + - question: >- + Why was our Mediator called Jesus? + number: 41 + answer: >- + Our Mediator was called Jesus, because he saveth his people from their + sins.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.1.21 + - question: >- + Why was our Mediator called Christ? + number: 42 + answer: >- + Our Mediator was called Christ, because he was anointed with the Holy + Ghost above measure;[1] and so set apart, and fully furnished with all + authority and ability,[2] to execute the offices of prophet,[3] + priest,[4] and king of his church,[5] in the estate both of his + humiliation and exaltation. + verses: + 1: + - John.3.34 + - Ps.45.7 + 2: + - John.6.27 + - Matt.28.18-Matt.28.20 + 3: + - Acts.3.21-Acts.3.22 + - Luke.4.18,Luke.4.21 + 4: + - Heb.5.5-Heb.5.7 + - Heb.4.14-Heb.4.15 + 5: + - Ps.2.6 + - Matt.21.5 + - Isa.9.6-Isa.9.7 + - Phil.2.8-Phil.2.11 + - question: >- + How doth Christ execute the office of a prophet? + number: 43 + answer: >- + Christ executeth the office of a prophet, in his revealing to the + church,[1] in all ages, by his Spirit and word,[2] in divers ways of + administration,[3] the whole will of God,[4] in all things concerning + their edification and salvation.[5] + verses: + 1: + - John.1.18 + 2: + - 1Pet.1.10-1Pet.1.12 + 3: + - Heb.1.1-Heb.1.2 + 4: + - John.15.15 + 5: + - Acts.20.23 + - Eph.4.11-Eph.4.13 + - John.20.31 + - question: >- + How doth Christ execute the office of a priest? + number: 44 + answer: >- + Christ executeth the office of a priest, in his once offering himself + a sacrifice without spot to God,[1] to be a reconciliation for the + sins of his people;[2] and in making continual intercession for + them.[3] + verses: + 1: + - Heb.9.14,Heb.9.28 + 2: + - Heb.2.17 + 3: + - Heb.7.25 + - question: >- + How doth Christ execute the office of a king? + number: 45 + answer: >- + Christ executeth the office of a king, in calling out of the world a + people to himself,[1] and giving them officers,[2] laws,[3] and + censures, by which he visibly governs them;[4] in bestowing saving + grace upon his elect,[5] rewarding their obedience,[6] and correcting + them for their sins,[7] preserving and supporting them under all their + temptations and sufferings,[8] restraining and overcoming all their + enemies,[9] and powerfully ordering all things for his own glory,[10] + and their good;[11] and also in taking vengeance on the rest, who know + not God, and obey not the gospel.[12] + verses: + 1: + - Acts.15.14-Acts.15.16 + - Gen.49.10 + - Ps.110.3 + 2: + - Eph.4.11-Eph.4.12 + - 1Cor.12.28 + 3: + - Isa.33.22 + 4: + - Matt.18.17-Matt.18.18 + - 1Cor.5.4-1Cor.5.5 + 5: + - Acts.5.31 + 6: + - Rev.22.12 + - Rev.2.10 + 7: + - Rev.3.19 + 8: + - Isa.63.9 + 9: + - 1Cor.15.25 + - Ps.110.1-Ps.110.2 + 10: + - Rom.14.10-Rom.14.11 + 11: + - Rom.8.28 + 12: + - 2Thess.1.8-2Thess.1.9 + - Ps.2.8-Ps.2.9 + - question: >- + What was the estate of Christ's humiliation? + number: 46 + answer: >- + The estate of Christ's humiliation was that low condition, wherein he + for our sakes, emptying himself of his glory, took upon him the form + of a servant, in his conception and birth, life, death, and after his + death, until his resurrection. [1] + verses: + 1: + - Phil.2.6-Phil.2.8 + - Luke.1.31 + - 2Cor.8.9 + - Acts.2.24 + - question: >- + How did Christ humble himself in his conception and birth? + number: 47 + answer: >- + Christ humbled himself in his conception and birth, in that, being + from all eternity the Son of God, in the bosom of the Father, he was + pleased in the fulness of time to become the son of man, made of a + woman of low estate, and to be born of her; with divers circumstances + of more than ordinary abasement.[1] + verses: + 1: + - John.1.14,John.1.18 + - Gal.4.4 + - Luke.2.7 + - question: >- + How did Christ humble himself in his life? + number: 48 + answer: >- + Christ humbled himself in his life, by subjecting himself to the + law,[1] which he perfectly fulfilled;[2] and by conflicting with the + indignities of the world,[3] temptations of Satan,[4] and infirmities + in his flesh, whether common to the nature of man, or particularly + accompanying that his low condition.[5] + verses: + 1: + - Gal.4.4 + 2: + - Matt.5.17 + - Rom.5.19 + 3: + - Ps.22.6 + - Heb.12.2-Heb.12.3 + 4: + - Matt.4.1-Matt.4.12 + - Luke.4.13 + 5: + - Heb.2.17-Heb.2.18 + - Heb.4.15 + - Isa.52.13-Isa.52.14 + - question: >- + How did Christ humble himself in his death? + number: 49 + answer: >- + Christ humbled himself in his death, in that having been betrayed by + Judas,[1] forsaken by his disciples,[2] scorned and rejected by the + world,[3] condemned by Pilate, and tormented by his persecutors;[4] + having also conflicted with the terrors of death, and the powers of + darkness, felt and borne the weight of God's wrath,[5] he laid down + his life an offering for sin,[6] enduring the painful, shameful, and + cursed death of the cross.[7] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.27.4 + 2: + - Matt.26.56 + 3: + - Isa.53.2-Isa.53.3 + 4: + - Matt.27.26-Matt.27.50 + - John.19.34 + 5: + - Luke.22.44 + - Matt.27.46 + 6: + - Isa.53.10 + 7: + - Phil.2.8 + - Heb.12.2 + - Gal.3.13 + - question: >- + Wherein consisted Christ's humiliation after his death? + number: 50 + answer: >- + Christ's humiliation after his death consisted in his being buried,[1] + and continuing in the state of the dead, and under the power of death + till the third day;[2] which hath been otherwise expressed in these + words, he descended into hell. + verses: + 1: + - 1Cor.15.3-1Cor.15.4 + 2: + - Ps.16.10 + - Acts.2.24-Acts.2.27,Acts.2.31 + - Rom.6.9 + - Matt.12.40 + - question: >- + What was the estate of Christ's exaltation? + number: 51 + answer: >- + The estate of Christ's exaltation comprehendeth his resurrection,[1] + ascension,[2] sitting at the right hand of the Father,[3] and his + coming again to judge the world.[4] + verses: + 1: + - 1Cor.15.4 + 2: + - Mark.16.19 + 3: + - Eph.1.20 + 4: + - Acts.1.11 + - Acts.17.31 + - question: >- + How was Christ exalted in his resurrection? + number: 52 + answer: >- + Christ was exalted in his resurrection, in that, not having seen + corruption in death (of which it was not possible for him to be + held),[1] and having the very same body in which he suffered, with the + essential properties thereof [2] (but without mortality, and other + common infirmities belonging to this life), really united to his + soul,[3] he rose again from the dead the third day by his own + power;[4] whereby he declared himself to be the Son of God,[5] to have + satisfied divine justice,[6] to have vanquished death, and him that + had the power of it,[7] and to be Lord of quick and dead:[8] all which + he did as a public person,[9] the head of his church,[10] for their + justification,[11] quickening in grace,[12] support against + enemies,[13] and to assure them of their resurrection from the dead at + the last day.[14] + verses: + 1: + - Acts.2.24,Acts.2.27 + 2: + - Luke.24.39 + 3: + - Rom.6.9 + - Rev.1.18 + 4: + - John.10.18 + 5: + - Rom.1.4 + 6: + - Rom.8.34 + 7: + - Heb.2.14 + 8: + - Rom.14.9 + 9: + - 1Cor.15.21-1Cor.15.22 + 10: + - Eph.1.20-Eph.1.23 + - Col.1.18 + 11: + - Rom.4.25 + 12: + - Eph.2.1,Eph.2.5-Eph.2.6 + - Col.2.12 + 13: + - 1Cor.15.25-1Cor.15.27 + 14: + - 1Cor.15.20 + - question: >- + How was Christ exalted in his ascension? + number: 53 + answer: >- + Christ was exalted in his ascension, in that having after his + resurrection often appeared unto and conversed with his apostles, + speaking to them of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God,[1] + and giving them commission to preach the gospel to all nations,[2] + forty days after his resurrection, he, in our nature, and as our + head,[3] triumphing over enemies,[4] visibly went up into the highest + heavens, there to receive gifts for men,[5] to raise up our affections + thither,[6] and to prepare a place for us,[7] where himself is, and + shall continue till his second coming at the end of the world.[8] + verses: + 1: + - Acts.1.2-Acts.1.3 + 2: + - Matt.28.19-Matt.28.20 + 3: + - Heb.6.20 + 4: + - Eph.4.8 + 5: + - Acts.1.9-Acts.1.11 + - Eph.4.10 + - Ps.68.18 + 6: + - Col.3.1-Col.3.2 + 7: + - John.14.3 + 8: + - Acts.3.21 + - question: >- + How is Christ exalted in his sitting at the right hand of God? + number: 54 + answer: >- + Christ is exalted in his sitting at the right hand of God, in that as + God-man he is advanced to the highest favor with God the Father,[1] + with all fulness of joy,[2] glory,[3] and power over all things in + heaven and earth;[4] and doth gather and defend his church, and subdue + their enemies; furnisheth his ministers and people with gifts and + graces,[5] and maketh intercession for them.[6] + verses: + 1: + - Phil.2.9 + 2: + - Acts.2.28 + - Ps.16.11 + 3: + - John.17.5 + 4: + - Eph.1.22 + - 1Pet.3.22 + 5: + - Eph.4.10-Eph.4.12 + - Ps.110.1 + 6: + - Rom.8.34 + - question: >- + How doth Christ make intercession? + number: 55 + answer: >- + Christ maketh intercession, by his appearing in our nature continually + before the Father in heaven,[1] in the merit of his obedience and + sacrifice on earth,[2] declaring his will to have it applied to all + believers;[3] answering all accusations against them,[4] and procuring + for them quiet of conscience, notwithstanding daily failings,[5] + access with boldness to the throne of grace,[6] and acceptance of + their persons [7] and services.[8] + verses: + 1: + - Heb.9.12,Heb.9.24 + 2: + - Heb.1.3 + 3: + - John.3.16 + - John.17.9,John.17.20,John.17.24 + 4: + - Rom.8.33-Rom.8.34 + 5: + - Rom.5.1-Rom.5.2 + - 1John.2.1-1John.2.2 + 6: + - Heb.4.16 + 7: + - Eph.1.6 + 8: + - 1Pet.2.5 + - question: >- + How is Christ to be exalted in his coming again to judge the world? + number: 56 + answer: >- + Christ is to be exalted in his coming again to judge the world, in + that he, who was unjustly judged and condemned by wicked men,[1] shall + come again at the last day in great power,[2] and in the full + manifestation of his own glory, and of his Father's, with all his holy + angels,[3] with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the + trumpet of God,[4] to judge the world in righteousness.[5] + verses: + 1: + - Acts.3.14-Acts.3.15 + 2: + - Matt.24.30 + 3: + - Luke.9.26 + - Matt.25.31 + 4: + - 1Thess.4.16 + 5: + - Acts.17.31 + - question: >- + What benefits hath Christ procured by his mediation? + number: 57 + answer: >- + Christ, by his mediation, hath procured redemption,[1] with all other + benefits of the covenant of grace.[2] + verses: + 1: + - Heb.9.12 + 2: + - 2Cor.1.20 + - question: >- + How do we come to be made partakers of the benefits which Christ hath + procured? + number: 58 + answer: >- + We are made partakers of the benefits which Christ hath procured,[1] + by the application of them unto us, which is the work especially of + God the Holy Ghost.[2] + verses: + 1: + - John.1.11-John.1.12 + 2: + - Titus.3.5-Titus.3.6 + - question: >- + Who are made partakers of redemption through Christ? + number: 59 + answer: >- + Redemption is certainly applied, and effectually communicated, to all + those for whom Christ hath purchased it;[1] who are in time by the + Holy Ghost enabled to believe in Christ according to the gospel.[2] + verses: + 1: + - Eph.1.13-Eph.1.14 + - John.6.37,John.6.39 + - John.10.15-John.10.16 + 2: + - Eph.2.8 + - 2Cor.4.13 + - question: >- + Can they who have never heard the gospel, and so know not Jesus + Christ, nor believe in him, be saved by their living according to the + light of nature? + number: 60 + answer: >- + They who, having never heard the gospel,[1] know not Jesus Christ,[2] + and believe not in him, cannot be saved,[3] be they never so diligent + to frame their lives according to the light of nature,[4] or the laws + of that religion which they profess;[5] neither is there salvation in + any other, but in Christ alone,[6] who is the Savior only of his body + the church.[7] + verses: + 1: + - Rom.10.14 + 2: + - 2Thess.1.8-2Thess.1.9 + - Eph.2.12 + - John.1.10-John.1.12 + 3: + - John.8.24 + - Mark.16.16 + 4: + - 1Cor.1.20-1Cor.1.24 + 5: + - John.4.22 + - Rom.9.31-Rom.9.32 + - Phil.3.4-Phil.3.9 + 6: + - Acts.4.12 + 7: + - Eph.5.23 + - question: >- + Are all they saved who hear the gospel, and live in the church? + number: 61 + answer: >- + All that hear the gospel, and live in the visible church, are not + saved; but they only who are true members of the church invisible.[1] + verses: + 1: + - John.12.38-John.12.40 + - Rom.9.6 + - Matt.22.14 + - Matt.7.21 + - Rom.11.7 + - question: >- + What is the visible church? + number: 62 + answer: >- + The visible church is a society made up of all such as in all ages and + places of the world do profess the true religion,[1] and of their + children.[2] + verses: + 1: + - 1Cor.1.2 + - 1Cor.12.13 + - Rom.15.9-Rom.15.12 + - Rev.7.9 + - Ps.2.8 + - Ps.22.27-Ps.22.31 + - Ps.45.17 + - Matt.28.19-Matt.28.20 + - Isa.59.21 + 2: + - 1Cor.7.14 + - Acts.2.39 + - Rom.11.16 + - Gen.17.7 + - question: >- + What are the special privileges of the visible church? + number: 63 + answer: >- + The visible church hath the privilege of being under God's special + care and government;[1] of being protected and preserved in all ages, + not withstanding the opposition of all enemies;[2] and of enjoying the + communion of saints, the ordinary means of salvation,[3] and offers of + grace by Christ to all the members of it in the ministry of the + gospel, testifying, that whosoever believes in him shall be saved,[4] + and excluding none that will come unto him.[5] + verses: + 1: + - Isa.9.5-Isa.9.6 + - 1Tim.4.10 + 2: + - Ps.115.1-Ps.115.2,Ps.115.9 + - Isa.31.4-Isa.31.5 + - Zech.12.2-Zech.12.4,Zech.12.8-Zech.12.9 + 3: + - Acts.2.39,Acts.2.42 + 4: + - Ps.147.19-Ps.147.20 + - Rom.9.4 + - Eph.4.11-Eph.4.12 + - Mark.16.15-Mark.16.16 + 5: + - John.6.37 + - question: >- + What is the invisible church? + number: 64 + answer: >- + The invisible church is the whole number of the elect, that have been, + are, or shall be gathered into one under Christ the head.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Eph.1.10 + - Eph.1.22-Eph.1.23 + - John.10.16 + - John.11.52 + - question: >- + What special benefits do the members of the invisible church enjoy by + Christ? + number: 65 + answer: >- + The members of the invisible church by Christ enjoy union and + communion with him in grace and glory.[1] + verses: + 1: + - John.17.21 + - Eph.2.5-Eph.2.6 + - John.17.24 + - question: >- + What is that union which the elect have with Christ? + number: 66 + answer: >- + The union which the elect have with Christ is the work of God's + grace,[1] whereby they are spiritually and mystically, yet really and + inseparably, joined to Christ as their head and husband;[2] which is + done in their effectual calling.[3] + verses: + 1: + - Eph.1.22 + - Eph.2.6-Eph.2.7 + 2: + - 1Cor.6.17 + - John.10.28 + - Eph.5.23,Eph.5.30 + 3: + - 1Pet.5.10 + - 1Cor.1.9 + - question: >- + What is effectual calling? + number: 67 + answer: >- + Effectual calling is the work of God's almighty power and grace,[1] + whereby (out of his free and special love to his elect, and from + nothing in them moving him thereunto [2]) he doth, in his accepted + time, invite and draw them to Jesus Christ, by his word and Spirit;[3] + savingly enlightening their minds,[4] renewing and powerfully + determining their wills,[5] so as they (although in themselves dead in + sin) are hereby made willing and able freely to answer his call, and + to accept and embrace the grace offered and conveyed therein.[6] + verses: + 1: + - John.5.25 + - Eph.1.18-Eph.1.20 + - 2Tim.1.8-2Tim.1.9 + 2: + - Titus.3.4-Titus.3.5 + - Eph.2.4-Eph.2.5,Eph.2.7-Eph.2.9 + - Rom.9.11 + 3: + - 2Cor.5.20 + - 2Cor.6.1-2Cor.6.2 + - John.6.44 + - 2Thess.2.13-2Thess.2.14 + 4: + - Acts.26.18 + - 1Cor.2.10,1Cor.2.12 + 5: + - Ezek.11.19 + - Ezek.36.26-Ezek.36.27 + - John.6.45 + 6: + - Eph.2.5 + - Phil.2.13 + - Deut.30.6 + - question: >- + Are the elect only effectually called? + number: 68 + answer: >- + All the elect, and they only, are effectually called;[1] although + others may be, and often are, outwardly called by the ministry of the + word,[2] and have some common operations of the Spirit;[3] who, for + their wilful neglect and contempt of the grace offered to them, being + justly left in their unbelief, do never truly come to Jesus Christ.[4] + verses: + 1: + - Acts.13.48 + 2: + - Matt.22.14 + 3: + - Matt.7.22 + - Heb.6.4-Heb.6.6 + 4: + - John.12.38-John.12.40 + - Acts.28.25-Acts.28.27 + - John.6.64-John.6.65 + - Ps.81.11-Ps.81.12 + - question: >- + What is the communion in grace which the members of the invisible + church have with Christ? + number: 69 + answer: >- + The communion in grace which the members of the invisible church have + with Christ, is their partaking of the virtue of his mediation, in + their justification,[1] adoption,[2] sanctification, and whatever + else, in this life, manifests their union with him.[3] + verses: + 1: + - Rom.8.30 + 2: + - Eph.1.5 + 3: + - 1Cor.1.30 + - question: >- + What is justification? + number: 70 + answer: >- + Justification is an act of God's free grace unto sinners,[1] in which + he pardoneth all their sins, accepteth and accounteth their persons + righteous in his sight;[2] not for any thing wrought in them, or done + by them,[3] but only for the perfect obedience and full satisfaction + of Christ, by God imputed to them,[4] and received by faith alone.[5] + verses: + 1: + - Rom.3.22,Rom.3.24-Rom.3.25 + - Rom.4.5 + 2: + - 2Cor.5.19,2Cor.5.21 + - Rom.3.22,Rom.3.24-Rom.3.25,Rom.3.27-Rom.3.28 + 3: + - Titus.3.5,Titus.3.7 + - Eph.1.7 + 4: + - Rom.5.17-Rom.5.19 + - Rom.4.6-Rom.4.8 + 5: + - Acts.10.43 + - Gal.2.16 + - Phil.3.9 + - question: >- + How is justification an act of God's free grace? + number: 71 + answer: >- + Although Christ, by his obedience and death, did make a proper, real, + and full satisfaction to God's justice in the behalf of them that are + justified;[1] yet inasmuch as God accepteth the satisfaction from a + surety, which he might have demanded of them, and did provide this + surety, his own only Son,[2] imputing his righteousness to them,[3] + and requiring nothing of them for their justification but faith,[4] + which also is his gift,[5] their justification is to them of free + grace.[6] + verses: + 1: + - Rom.5.8-Rom.5.10,Rom.5.19 + 2: + - 1Tim.2.5-1Tim.2.6 + - Heb.10.10 + - Matt.20.28 + - Dan.9.24,Dan.9.26 + - Isa.53.4-Isa.53.6,Isa.53.10-Isa.53.12 + - Heb.7.22 + - Rom.8.32 + - 1Pet.1.18-1Pet.1.19 + 3: + - 2Cor.5.21 + 4: + - Rom.3.24-Rom.3.25 + 5: + - Eph.2.8 + 6: + - Eph.1.17 + - question: >- + What is justifying faith? + number: 72 + answer: >- + Justifying faith is a saving grace,[1] wrought in the heart of a + sinner by the Spirit [2] and word of God,[3] whereby he, being + convinced of his sin and misery, and of the disability in himself and + all other creatures to recover him out of his lost condition,[4] not + only assenteth to the truth of the promise of the gospel,[5] but + receiveth and resteth upon Christ and his righteousness, therein held + forth, for pardon of sin,[6] and for the accepting and accounting of + his person righteous in the sight of God for salvation.[7] + verses: + 1: + - Heb.10.39 + 2: + - 2Cor.4.13 + - Eph.1.17-Eph.1.19 + 3: + - Rom.10.14-Rom.10.17 + 4: + - Acts.2.37 + - Acts.16.30 + - John.16.8-John.16.9 + - Rom.6.6 + - Eph.2.1 + - Acts.4.12 + 5: + - Eph.1.13 + 6: + - John.1.12 + - Acts.16.31 + - Acts.10.43 + 7: + - Phil.3.9 + - Acts.15.11 + - question: >- + How doth faith justify a sinner in the sight of God? + number: 73 + answer: >- + Faith justifies a sinner in the sight of God, not because of those + other graces which do always accompany it, or of good works that are + the fruits of it,[3] nor as if the grace of faith, or any act thereof, + were imputed to him for his justification;[2] but only as it is an + instrument by which he receiveth and applies Christ and his + righteousness.[3] + verses: + 1: + - Gal.3.11 + - Rom.3.28 + 2: + - Rom.4.5 + - Rom.10.10 + 3: + - John.1.12 + - Phil.3.9 + - Gal.1.16 + - question: >- + What is adoption? + number: 74 + answer: >- + Adoption is an act of the free grace of God,[1] in and for his only + Son Jesus Christ,[2] whereby all those that are justified are received + into the number of his children,[3] have his name put upon them,[4] + the Spirit of his Son given to them,[5] are under his fatherly care + and dispensations,[6] admitted to all the liberties and privileges of + the sons of God, made heirs of all the promises, and fellow heirs with + Christ in glory.[7] + verses: + 1: + - 1John.3.1 + 2: + - Eph.1.5 + - Gal.4.4-Gal.4.5 + 3: + - John.1.12 + 4: + - 2Cor.6.18 + - Rev.3.12 + 5: + - Gal.4.6 + 6: + - Ps.103.13 + - Prov.14.26 + - Matt.6.32 + 7: + - Heb.6.12 + - Rom.8.17 + - question: >- + What is sanctification? + number: 75 + answer: >- + Sanctification is a work of God's grace, whereby they whom God hath, + before the foundation of the world, chosen to be holy, are in time, + through the powerful operation of his Spirit [1] applying the death + and resurrection of Christ unto them,[2] renewed in their whole man + after the image of God;[3] having the seeds of repentance unto life, + and all other saving graces, put into their hearts,[4] and those + graces so stirred up, increased, and strengthened,[5] as that they + more and more die unto sin, and rise unto newness of life.[6] + verses: + 1: + - Eph.1.4 + - 1Cor.6.11 + - 2Thess.2.13 + 2: + - Rom.6.4-Rom.6.6 + 3: + - Eph.4.23-Eph.4.24 + 4: + - Acts.11.18 + - 1John.3.9 + 5: + - Jude.1.20 + - Heb.6.11-Heb.6.12 + - Eph.3.16-Eph.3.19 + - Col.1.10-Col.1.11 + 6: + - Rom.6.4,Rom.6.6,Rom.6.14 + - Gal.5.24 + - question: >- + What is repentance unto life? + number: 76 + answer: >- + Repentance unto life is a saving grace,[1] wrought in the heart of a + sinner by the Spirit [2] and word of God,[3] whereby, out of the sight + and sense, not only of the danger,[4] but also of the filthiness and + odiousness of his sins,[5] and upon the apprehension of God's mercy in + Christ to such as are penitent,[6] he so grieves for [7] and hates his + sins,[8] as that he turns from them all to God,[9] purposing and + endeavoring constantly to walk with him in all the ways of new + obedience.[10] + verses: + 1: + - 2Tim.2.25 + 2: + - Zech.12.10 + 3: + - Acts.11.18,Acts.11.20-Acts.11.21 + 4: + - Ezek.18.28,Ezek.18.30,Ezek.18.32 + - Luke.15.17-Luke.15.18 + - Hos.2.6-Hos.2.7 + 5: + - Ezek.36.31 + - Isa.30.22 + 6: + - Joel.2.12-Joel.2.13 + 7: + - Jer.31.18-Jer.31.19 + 8: + - 2Cor.7.11 + 9: + - Acts.26.18 + - Ezek.14.6 + - 1Kgs.8.47-1Kgs.8.48 + 10: + - Ps.119.6,Ps.119.59,Ps.119.128 + - 2Kgs.23.25 + - question: >- + Wherein do justification and sanctification differ? + number: 77 + answer: >- + Although sanctification be inseparably joined with justification,[1] + yet they differ, in that God in justification imputeth the + righteousness of Christ;[2] in sanctification his Spirit infuseth + grace, and enableth to the exercise thereof;[3] in the former, sin is + pardoned;[4] in the other, it is subdued:[5] the one doth equally free + all believers from the revenging wrath of God, and that perfectly in + this life, that they never fall into condemnation;[6] the other is + neither equal in all,[7] nor in this life perfect in any,[8] but + growing up to perfection.[9] + verses: + 1: + - 1Cor.6.11 + - 1Cor.1.30 + 2: + - Rom.4.6,Rom.4.8 + 3: + - Ezek.36.27 + 4: + - Rom.3.24-Rom.3.25 + 5: + - Rom.6.6,Rom.6.14 + 6: + - Rom.8.33-Rom.8.34 + 7: + - 1John.2.12-1John.2.14 + - Heb.5.12-Heb.5.14 + 8: + - 1John.1.8,1John.1.10 + 9: + - 2Cor.7.1 + - Phil.3.12-Phil.3.14 + - question: >- + Whence ariseth the imperfection of sanctification in believers? + number: 78 + answer: >- + The imperfection of sanctification in believers ariseth from the + remnants of sin abiding in every part of them, and the perpetual + lustings of the flesh against the spirit; whereby they are often + foiled with temptations, and fall into many sins,[1] are hindered in + all their spiritual services,[2] and their best works are imperfect + and defiled in the sight of God.[3] + verses: + 1: + - Rom.7.18,Rom.7.23 + - Mark.14.66 + - Gal.2.11-Gal.2.12 + 2: + - Heb.12.1 + 3: + - Isa.64.6 + - Exod.28.38 + - question: >- + May not true believers, by reason of their imperfections, and the many + temptations and sins they are overtaken with, fall away from the state + of grace ? + number: 79 + answer: >- + True believers, by reason of the unchangeable love of God,[1] and his + decree and covenant to give them perseverance,[2] their inseparable + union with Christ,[3] his continual intercession for them,[4] and the + Spirit and seed of God abiding in them,[5] can neither totally nor + finally fall away from the state of grace,[6] but are kept by the + power of God through faith unto salvation.[7] + verses: + 1: + - Jer.31.3 + 2: + - 2Tim.2.19 + - Heb.13.20-Heb.13.21 + - 2Sam.23.5 + 3: + - 1Cor.1.8-1Cor.1.9 + 4: + - Heb.7.25 + - Luke.22.32 + 5: + - 1John.3.9 + - 1John.2.27 + 6: + - Jer.32.40 + - John.10.28 + 7: + - 1Pet.1.5 + - question: >- + Can true believers be infallibly assured that they are in the estate + of grace, and that they shall persevere therein unto salvation? + number: 80 + answer: >- + Such as truly believe in Christ, and endeavor to walk in all good + conscience before him,[1] may, without extraordinary revelation, by + faith grounded upon the truth of God's promises, and by the Spirit + enabling them to discern in themselves those graces to which the + promises of life are made,[2] and bearing witness with their spirits + that they are the children of God,[3] be infallibly assured that they + are in the estate of grace, and shall persevere therein unto + salvation.[4] + verses: + 1: + - 1John.2.3 + 2: + - 1Cor.2.12 + - 1John.3.14,1John.3.18-1John.3.19,1John.3.21,1John.3.24 + - 1John.4.13,1John.4.16 + - Heb.6.11-Heb.6.12 + 3: + - Rom.8.16 + 4: + - 1John.5.13 + - question: >- + Are all true believers at all times assured of their present being in + the estate of grace, and that they shall be saved? + number: 81 + answer: >- + Assurance of grace and salvation not being of the essence of faith,[1] + true believers may wait long before they obtain it;[2] and, after the + enjoyment thereof, may have it weakened and intermitted, through + manifold distempers, sins, temptations, and desertions;[3] yet are + they never left without such a presence and support of the Spirit of + God as keeps them from sinking into utter despair.[4] + verses: + 1: + - Eph.1.13 + 2: + - Isa.50.10 + - Ps.88.1-Ps.88.3,Ps.88.6-Ps.88.7,Ps.88.9-Ps.88.10,Ps.88.13-Ps.88.15 + 3: + - Ps.77.1-Ps.77.12 + - Song.5.2-Song.5.3,Song.5.6 + - Ps.51.8,Ps.51.12 + - Ps.31.22 + - Ps.22.1 + 4: + - 1John.3.9 + - Ps.73.15,Ps.73.23 + - Isa.54.7-Isa.54.10 + - question: >- + What is the communion in glory which the members of the invisible + church have with Christ? + number: 82 + answer: >- + The communion in glory which the members of the invisible church have + with Christ, is in this life,[1] immediately after death,[2] and at + last perfected at the resurrection and day of judgment.[3] + verses: + 1: + - 2Cor.3.18 + 2: + - Luke.23.43 + 3: + - 1Thess.4.17 + - question: >- + What is the communion in glory with Christ which the members of the + invisible church enjoy in this life? + number: 83 + answer: >- + The members of the invisible church have communicated to them in this + life the firstfruits of glory with Christ, as they are members of him + their head, and so in him are interested in that glory which he is + fully possessed of;[1] and, as an earnest thereof, enjoy the sense of + God's love,[2] peace of conscience, joy in the Holy Ghost, and hope of + glory;[3] as, on the contrary, sense of God's revenging wrath, horror + of conscience, and a fearful expectation of judgment, are to the + wicked the beginning of their torments which they shall endure after + death.[4] + verses: + 1: + - Eph.2.5-Eph.2.6 + 2: + - Rom.5.5 + - 2Cor.1.22 + 3: + - Rom.5.1-Rom.5.2 + - Rom.14.17 + 4: + - Gen.4.13 + - Matt.27.4 + - Heb.10.27 + - Rom.2.9 + - Mark.9.48 + - question: >- + Shall all men die? + number: 84 + answer: >- + Death being threatened as the wages of sin,[1] it is appointed unto + all men once to die;[2] for that all have sinned.[3] + verses: + 1: + - Rom.6.23 + 2: + - Heb.9.27 + 3: + - Rom.5.12 + - question: >- + Death, being the wages of sin, why are not the righteous delivered + from death, seeing all their sins are forgiven in Christ? + number: 85 + answer: >- + The righteous shall be delivered from death itself at the last day, + and even in death are delivered from the sting and curse of it;[1] so + that, although they die, yet it is out of God's love,[2] to free them + perfectly from sin and misery,[3] and to make them capable of further + communion with Christ in glory, which they then enter upon.[4] + verses: + 1: + - 1Cor.15.26,1Cor.15.55-1Cor.15.57 + - Heb.2.15 + 2: + - Isa.57.1-Isa.57.2 + - 2Kgs.22.20 + 3: + - Rev.14.13 + - Eph.5.27 + 4: + - Luke.23.43 + - Phil.1.23 + - question: >- + What is the communion in glory with Christ, which the members of the + invisible church enjoy immediately after death? + number: 86 + answer: >- + The communion in glory with Christ, which the members of the invisible + church enjoy immediately after death, is, in that their souls are then + made perfect in holiness,[1] and received into the highest heavens,[2] + where they behold the face of God in light and glory,[3] waiting for + the full redemption of their bodies,[4] which even in death continue + united to Christ,[5] and rest in their graves as in their beds,[6] + till at the last day they be again united to their souls.[7] Whereas + the souls of the wicked are at their death cast into hell, where they + remain in torments and utter darkness, and their bodies kept in their + graves, as in their prisons, till the resurrection and judgment of the + great day.[8] + verses: + 1: + - Heb.12.23 + 2: + - 2Cor.5.1,2Cor.5.6,2Cor.5.8 + - Phil.1.23 + - Acts.3.21 + - Eph.4.10 + 3: + - 1John.3.2 + - 1Cor.13.12 + 4: + - Rom.8.23 + - Ps.16.9 + 5: + - 1Thess.4.14 + 6: + - Isa.57.2 + 7: + - Job.19.26-Job.19.27 + 8: + - Luke.16.23-Luke.16.24 + - Jude.1.6-Jude.1.7 + - question: >- + What are we to believe concerning the resurrection? + number: 87 + answer: >- + We are to believe, that at the last day there shall be a general + resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust:[1] when they + that are then found alive shall in a moment be changed; and the + selfsame bodies of the dead which were laid in the grave, being then + again united to their souls forever, shall be raised up by the power + of Christ.[2] The bodies of the just, by the Spirit of Christ, and by + virtue of his resurrection as their head, shall be raised in power, + spiritual, incorruptible, and made like to his glorious body;[3] and + the bodies of the wicked shall be raised up in dishonor by him, as an + offended judge.[4] + verses: + 1: + - Acts.24.15 + 2: + - 1Cor.15.51-1Cor.15.53 + - 1Thess.4.15-1Thess.4.17 + - John.5.28-John.5.29 + 3: + - 1Cor.15.21-1Cor.15.23,1Cor.15.42-1Cor.15.44 + - Phil.3.21 + 4: + - John.5.27-John.5.29 + - Matt.25.33 + - question: >- + What shall immediately follow after the resurrection? + number: 88 + answer: >- + Immediately after the resurrection shall follow the general and final + judgment of angels and men;[1] the day and hour whereof no man knows, + that all may watch and pray, and be ever ready for the coming of the + Lord.[2] + verses: + 1: + - 2Pet.2.4,2Pet.2.6-2Pet.2.7,2Pet.2.14-2Pet.2.15 + - Matt.25.46 + 2: + - Matt.24.36,Matt.24.42,Matt.24.44 + - question: >- + What shall be done to the wicked at the day of judgment? + number: 89 + answer: >- + At the day of judgment, the wicked shall be set on Christ's left + hand,[1] and, upon clear evidence, and full conviction of their own + consciences,[2] shall have the fearful but just sentence of + condemnation pronounced against them;[3] and thereupon shall be cast + out from the favorable presence of God, and the glorious fellowship + with Christ, his saints, and all his holy angels, into hell, to be + punished with unspeakable torments, both of body and soul, with the + devil and his angels forever.[4] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.25.33 + 2: + - Rom.2.15-Rom.2.16 + 3: + - Matt.25.41-Matt.25.43 + 4: + - Luke.16.26 + - 2Thess.1.8-2Thess.1.9 + - question: >- + What shall be done to the righteous at the day of judgment? + number: 90 + answer: >- + At the day of judgment, the righteous, being caught up to Christ in + the clouds,[1] shall be set on his right hand, and there openly + acknowledged and acquitted,[2] shall join with him in the judging of + reprobate angels and men,[3] and shall be received into heaven,[4] + where they shall be fully and forever freed from all sin and + misery;[5] filled with inconceivable joys,[6] made perfectly holy and + happy both in body and soul, in the company of innumerable saints and + holy angels,[7] but especially in the immediate vision and fruition of + God the Father, of our Lord Jesus Christ, and of the Holy Spirit, to + all eternity.[8] And this is the perfect and full communion, which the + members of the invisible church shall enjoy with Christ in glory, at + the resurrection and day of judgment. + verses: + 1: + - 1Thess.4.17 + 2: + - Matt.25.33 + - Matt.10.32 + 3: + - 1Cor.6.2-1Cor.6.3 + 4: + - Matt.25.34,Matt.25.46 + 5: + - Eph.5.27 + - Rev.14.13 + 6: + - Ps.16.11 + 7: + - Heb.12.22-Heb.12.23 + 8: + - 1John.3.2 + - 1Cor.13.12 + - 1Thess.4.17-1Thess.4.18 + - question: >- + What is the duty which God requireth of man? + number: 91 + answer: >- + The duty which God requireth of man, is obedience to his revealed + will.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Rom.12.1-Rom.12.2 + - Mic.6.8 + - 1Sam.15.22 + - question: >- + What did God at first reveal unto man as the rule of his obedience? + number: 92 + answer: >- + The rule of obedience revealed to Adam in the estate of innocence, and + to all mankind in him, besides a special command not to eat of the + fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, was the moral + law.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Gen.1.26-Gen.1.27 + - Rom.2.14-Rom.2.15 + - Rom.10.5 + - Gen.2.17 + - question: >- + What is the moral law? + number: 93 + answer: >- + The moral law is the declaration of the will of God to mankind, + directing and binding everyone to personal, perfect, and perpetual + conformity and obedience thereunto, in the frame and disposition of + the whole man, soul and body,[1] and in performance of all those + duties of holiness and righteousness which he oweth to God and man:[2] + promising life upon the fulfilling, and threatening death upon the + breach of it.[3] + verses: + 1: + - Deut.5.1-Deut.5.3,Deut.5.31,Deut.5.33 + - Luke.10.26-Luke.10.27 + - 1Thess.5.23 + 2: + - Luke.1.75 + - Acts.24.16 + 3: + - Rom.10.5 + - Gal.3.10,Gal.3.12 + - question: >- + Is there any use of the moral law to man since the fall? + number: 94 + answer: >- + Although no man, since the fall, can attain to righteousness and life + by the moral law;[1] yet there is great use thereof, as well common to + all men, as peculiar either to the unregenerate, or the regenerate.[2] + verses: + 1: + - Rom.8.3 + - Gal.2.16 + 2: + - 1Tim.1.8 + - question: >- + Of what use is the moral law to all men? + number: 95 + answer: >- + The moral law is of use to all men, to inform them of the holy nature + and will of God,[1] and of their duty, binding them to walk + accordingly;[2] to convince them of their disability to keep it, and + of the sinful pollution of their nature, hearts, and lives;[3] to + humble them in the sense of their sin and misery,[4] and thereby help + them to a clearer sight of the need they have of Christ,[5] and of the + perfection of his obedience.[6] + verses: + 1: + - Lev.11.44-Lev.11.45 + - Lev.20.7-Lev.20.8 + - Rom.8.12 + 2: + - Mic.6.8 + - Jas.2.10-Jas.2.11 + 3: + - Ps.19.11-Ps.19.12 + - Rom.3.20 + - Rom.7.7 + 4: + - Rom.3.9,Rom.3.23 + 5: + - Gal.3.21-Gal.3.22 + 6: + - Rom.10.4 + - question: >- + What particular use is there of the moral law to unregenerate men? + number: 96 + answer: >- + The moral law is of use to unregenerate men, to awaken their + consciences to flee from wrath to come,[1] and to drive them to + Christ;[2] or, upon their continuance in the estate and way of sin, to + leave them inexcusable,[3] and under the curse thereof.[4] + verses: + 1: + - 1Tim.1.9-1Tim.1.10 + 2: + - Gal.3.24 + 3: + - Rom.1.20 + - Rom.2.15 + 4: + - Gal.3.10 + - question: >- + What special use is there of the moral law to the regenerate? + number: 97 + answer: >- + Although they that are regenerate, and believe in Christ, be delivered + from the moral law as a covenant of works,[1] so as thereby they are + neither justified [2] nor condemned;[3] yet, besides the general uses + thereof common to them with all men, it is of special use, to show + them how much they are bound to Christ for his fulfilling it, and + enduring the curse thereof in their stead, and for their good;[4] and + thereby to provoke them to more thankfulness,[5] and to express the + same in their greater care to conform themselves thereunto as the rule + of their obedience.[6] + verses: + 1: + - Rom.6.14 + - Rom.7.4,Rom.7.6 + - Gal.4.4-Gal.4.5 + 2: + - Rom.3.20 + 3: + - Gal.5.23 + - Rom.8.1 + 4: + - Rom.7.24-Rom.7.25 + - Gal.3.13-Gal.3.14 + - Rom.8.3-Rom.8.4 + 5: + - Luke.1.68-Luke.1.69,Luke.1.74-Luke.1.75 + - Col.1.12-Col.1.14 + 6: + - Rom.7.22 + - Rom.12.2 + - Titus.2.11-Titus.2.14 + - question: >- + Where is the moral law summarily comprehended? + number: 98 + answer: >- + The moral law is summarily comprehended in the ten commandments, which + were delivered by the voice of God upon Mount Sinai, and written by + him in two tables of stone;[1] and are recorded in the twentieth + chapter of Exodus. The four first commandments containing our duty to + God, and the other six our duty to man.[2] + verses: + 1: + - Deut.10.4 + - Exod.34.1-Exod.34.4 + 2: + - Matt.22.37-Matt.22.40 + - question: >- + What rules are to be observed for the right understanding of the ten + commandments? + number: 99 + answer: >- + + For the right understanding of the ten commandments, these rules are + to be observed: 1. That the law is perfect, and bindeth everyone to + full conformity in the whole man unto the righteousness thereof, and + unto entire obedience forever; so as to require the utmost perfection + of every duty, and to forbid the least degree of every sin.[1] 2. + That it is spiritual, and so reaches the understanding, will, + affections, and all other powers of the soul; as well as words, works, + and gestures.[2] 3. That one and the same thing, in divers respects, is + required or forbidden in several commandments.[3] 4. That as, where a + duty is commanded, the contrary sin is forbidden;[4] and, where a sin + is forbidden, the contrary duty is commanded:[5] so, where a promise + is annexed, the contrary threatening is included;[6] and, where a + threatening is annexed, the contrary promise is included.[7] 5. That + what God forbids, is at no time to be done;[8] What he commands, + is always our duty;[9] and yet every particular duty is not to be + done at all times.[10] 6. That under one sin or duty, all of the + same kind are forbidden or commanded; together with all the causes, + means, occasions, and appearances thereof, and provocations thereunto.[11] + 7. That what is forbidden or commanded to ourselves, we are bound, + according to our places, to endeavor that it may be avoided or + performed by others, according to the duty of their places.[12] + 8. That in what is commanded to others, we are bound, according to + our places and callings, to be helpful to them;[13] and to take heed + of partaking with others in: What is forbidden them.[14] + verses: + 1: + - Ps.19.7 + - Jas.2.10 + - Matt.5.21-Matt.5.22 + 2: + - Rom.7.14 + - Deut.6.5 + - Matt.22.37-Matt.22.39 + - >- + Matt.5.21-Matt.5.22,Matt.5.27-Matt.5.28,Matt.5.33-Matt.5.34,Matt.5.37-Matt.5.39,Matt.5.43-Matt.5.44 + 3: + - Col.3.5 + - Amos.8.5 + - Prov.1.19 + - 1Tim.6.10 + 4: + - Isa.58.13 + - Deut.6.13 + - Matt.4.9-Matt.4.10 + - Matt.15.4-Matt.15.6 + 5: + - Matt.5.21-Matt.5.25 + - Eph.4.28 + 6: + - Exod.20.12 + - Prov.30.17 + 7: + - Jer.18.7-Jer.18.8 + - Exod.20.7 + - Ps.15.1,Ps.15.4-Ps.15.5 + - Ps.24.4-Ps.24.5 + 8: + - Job.13.7-Job.13.8 + - Rom.3.8 + - Job.36.21 + - Heb.11.25 + 9: + - Deut.4.8-Deut.4.9 + 10: + - Matt.12.7 + 11: + - Matt.5.21-Matt.5.22,Matt.5.27-Matt.5.28 + - Matt.15.4-Matt.15.6 + - Heb.10.24-Heb.10.25 + - Jude.1.23 + - Gal.5.26 + - Col.3.21 + 12: + - Exod.20.10 + - Lev.19.17 + - Gen.18.19 + - Josh.14.15 + - Deut.6.6-Deut.6.7 + 13: + - 2Cor.1.24 + 14: + - 1Tim.5.2 + - Eph.5.1 + - question: >- + What special things are we to consider in the ten commandments? + number: 100 + answer: >- + We are to consider, in the ten commandments, the preface, the + substance of the commandments themselves, and several reasons annexed + to some of them, the more to enforce them. + verses: {} + - question: >- + What is the preface to the ten commandments? + number: 101 + answer: >- + The preface to the ten commandments is contained in these words, I am + the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, + out of the house of bondage.[1] Wherein God manifesteth his + sovereignty, as being JEHOVAH, the eternal, immutable, and almighty + God;[2] having his being in and of himself,[3] and giving being to all + his words [4] and works:[5] and that he is a God in covenant, as with + Israel of old, so with all his people;[6] who, as he brought them out + of their bondage in Egypt, so he delivers us from our spiritual + thraldom;[7] and that therefore we are bound to take him for our God + alone, and to keep all his commandments.[8] + verses: + 1: + - Exod.20.2 + 2: + - Isa.44.6 + 3: + - Exod.3.14 + 4: + - Exod.6.3 + 5: + - Acts.17.24,Acts.17.28 + 6: + - Gen.17.7 + 7: + - Luke.1.74-Luke.1.75 + 8: + - 1Pet.1.15,1Pet.1.17-1Pet.1.18 + - Lev.18.30 + - Lev.19.37 + - question: >- + What is the sum of the four commandments which contain our duty to + God? + number: 102 + answer: >- + The sum of the four commandments containing our duty to God is, to + love the Lord our God with all our heart, and with all our soul, and + with all our strength, and with all our mind.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Luke.10.27 + - question: >- + Which is the first commandment? + number: 103 + answer: >- + The first commandment is, Thou shall have no other gods before me.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Exod.20.3 + - question: >- + What are the duties required in the first commandment? + number: 104 + answer: >- + The duties required in the first commandment are, the knowing and + acknowledging of God to be the only true God, and our God;[1] and to + worship and glorify him accordingly,[2] by thinking,[3] meditating,[4] + remembering,[5] highly esteeming,[6] honoring,[7] adoring,[8] + choosing,[9] loving,[10] desiring,[11] fearing of him;[12] believing + him;[13] trusting,[14] hoping,[15] delighting,[16] rejoicing in + him;[17] being zealous for him;[18] calling upon him, giving all + praise and thanks,[19] and yielding all obedience and submission to + him with the whole man;[20] being careful in all things to please + him,[21] and sorrowful when in anything he is offended;[22] and + walking humbly with him.[23] + verses: + 1: + - 1Chr.28.9 + - Deut.26.7 + - Isa.43.10 + - Jer.14.22 + 2: + - Ps.95.6-Ps.95.7 + - Matt.4.10 + - Ps.29.2 + 3: + - Mal.3.16 + 4: + - Ps.63.6 + 5: + - Eccl.12.1 + 6: + - Ps.71.19 + 7: + - Mal.1.6 + 8: + - Isa.45.23 + 9: + - Josh.24.15,Josh.24.22 + 10: + - Deut.6.5 + 11: + - Ps.73.25 + 12: + - Isa.8.13 + 13: + - Exod.14.31 + 14: + - Isa.26.4 + 15: + - Ps.130.7 + 16: + - Ps.37.4 + 17: + - Ps.32.11 + 18: + - Rom.12.11 + - Num.25.11 + 19: + - Phil.4.6 + 20: + - Jer.7.23 + - Jas.4.7 + 21: + - 1John.3.22 + 22: + - Jer.31.18 + - Ps.119.136 + 23: + - Mic.6.8 + - question: >- + What are the sins forbidden in the first commandment? + number: 105 + answer: >- + The sins forbidden in the first commandment are, atheism, in denying + or not having a God;[1] Idolatry, in having or worshiping more gods + than one, or any with or instead of the true God;[2] the not having + and avouching him for God, and our God;[3] the omission or neglect of + anything due to him, required in this commandment;[4] ignorance,[5] + forgetfulness,[6] misapprehensions,[7] false opinions,[8] unworthy and + wicked thoughts of him;[9] bold and curious searching into his + secrets;[10] all profaneness,[11] hatred of God;[12] self-love,[13] + self-seeking,[14] and all other inordinate and immoderate setting of + our mind, will, or affections upon other things, and taking them off + from him in whole or in part;[15] vain credulity,[16] unbelief,[17] + heresy,[18] misbelief,[19] distrust,[20] despair,[21] + incorrigibleness,[22] and insensibleness under judgments,[23] hardness + of heart,[24] pride,[25] presumption,[26] carnal security,[27] + tempting of God;[28] using unlawful means,[29] and trusting in lawful + means;[30] carnal delights and joys;[31] corrupt, blind, and + indiscreet zeal;[32] lukewarmness,[33] and deadness in the things of + God;[34] estranging ourselves, and apostatizing from God;[35] praying, + or giving any religious worship, to saints, angels, or any other + creatures;[36] all compacts and consulting with the devil,[37] and + hearkening to his suggestions;[38] making men the lords of our faith + and conscience;[39] slighting and despising God and his commands;[40] + resisting and grieving of his Spirit,[41] discontent and impatience at + his dispensations, charging him foolishly for the evils he inflicts on + us;[42] and ascribing the praise of any good we either are, have, or + can do, to fortune,[43] idols,[44] ourselves,[45] or any other + creature.[46] + verses: + 1: + - Ps.14.1 + - Eph.2.12 + 2: + - Jer.2.27-Jer.2.28 + - 1Thess.1.9 + 3: + - Ps.81.1 + 4: + - Isa.43.2,Isa.43.23-Isa.43.24 + 5: + - Jer.4.22 + - Hos.4.1,Hos.4.6 + 6: + - Jer.2.32 + 7: + - Acts.17.23,Acts.17.29 + 8: + - Isa.40.18 + 9: + - Ps.50.21 + 10: + - Deut.29.29 + 11: + - Titus.1.16 + - Heb.12.16 + 12: + - Rom.1.30 + 13: + - 2Tim.3.2 + 14: + - Phil.2.21 + 15: + - 1John.2.15-1John.2.16 + - 1Sam.2.29 + - Col.2.2,Col.2.5 + 16: + - 1John.4.1 + 17: + - Heb.3.12 + 18: + - Gal.5.20 + - Titus.3.10 + 19: + - Acts.26.9 + 20: + - Ps.78.22 + 21: + - Gen.4.13 + 22: + - Jer.5.3 + 23: + - Isa.42.25 + 24: + - Rom.2.5 + 25: + - Jer.13.15 + 26: + - Ps.10.13 + 27: + - Zeph.1.12 + 28: + - Matt.4.7 + 29: + - Rom.3.8 + 30: + - Jer.17.5 + 31: + - 2Tim.3.4 + 32: + - Gal.4.17 + - John.16.2 + - Rom.10.2 + - Luke.9.54-Luke.9.55 + 33: + - Rev.3.16 + 34: + - Rev.2.1 + 35: + - Ezek.14.5 + - Isa.1.4-Isa.1.5 + 36: + - Rom.10.13-Rom.10.14 + - Hos.4.12 + - Acts.10.25-Acts.10.26 + - Rev.19.10 + - Matt.4.10 + - Col.2.18 + - Rom.1.25 + 37: + - Lev.20.6 + - 1Sam.28.7,1Sam.28.11 + - 1Chr.10.13-1Chr.10.14 + 38: + - Acts.5.3 + 39: + - 2Cor.1.24 + - Matt.23.9 + 40: + - Deut.32.15 + - 2Sam.12.9 + - Prov.13.13 + 41: + - Acts.7.51 + - Eph.4.30 + 42: + - Ps.73.2-Ps.73.3,Ps.73.13-Ps.73.15,Ps.73.22 + - Job.1.22 + 43: + - 1Sam.6.7-1Sam.6.9 + 44: + - Dan.5.23 + 45: + - Deut.8.17 + - Dan.4.30 + 46: + - Hab.1.16 + - question: >- + What are we specially taught by these words "before me" in the first + commandment? + number: 106 + answer: >- + These words before me, or before my face, in the first commandment, + teach us, that God, who seeth all things, taketh special notice of, + and is much displeased with, the sin of having any other God: that so + it may be an argument to dissuade from it, and to aggravate it as a + most impudent provocation:[1] as also to persuade us to do as in his + sight,: Whatever we do in his service.[2] + verses: + 1: + - Ezek.8.5-Ezek.8.6 + - Ps.44.20-Ps.44.21 + 2: + - 1Chr.28.9 + - question: >- + Which is the second commandment? + number: 107 + answer: >- + The second commandment is, Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven + image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is + in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: Thou + shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy + God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the + children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; + and shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my + commandments.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Exod.20.4-Exod.20.6 + - question: >- + What are the duties required in the second commandment? + number: 108 + answer: >- + The duties required in the second commandment are, the receiving, + observing, and keeping pure and entire, all such religious worship and + ordinances as God hath instituted in his word;[1] particularly prayer + and thanksgiving in the name of Christ;[2] the reading, preaching, and + hearing of the word;[3] the administration and receiving of the + sacraments;[4] church government and discipline;[5] the ministry and + maintenance thereof;[6] religious fasting;[7] swearing by the name of + God,[8] and vowing unto him:[9] as also the disapproving, detesting, + opposing, all false worship;[10] and, according to each one's place + and calling, removing it, and all monuments of idolatry.[11] + verses: + 1: + - Deut.32.46-Deut.32.47 + - Matt.28.20 + - Acts.2.42 + - 1Tim.6.13-1Tim.6.14 + 2: + - Phil.4.6 + - Eph.5.20 + 3: + - Deut.17.18-Deut.17.19 + - Acts.15.21 + - 2Tim.4.2 + - Jas.1.21-Jas.1.22 + 4: + - Matt.28.19 + - 1Cor.11.23-1Cor.11.30 + 5: + - Matt.18.15-Matt.18.17 + - 1Cor.5 + - 1Cor.12.28 + 6: + - Eph.4.11-Eph.4.12 + - 1Tim.5.17-1Tim.5.18 + - 1Cor.9.7-1Cor.9.15 + 7: + - Joel.2.12,Joel.2.18 + - 1Cor.7.5 + 8: + - Deut.6.13 + 9: + - Ps.76.11 + 10: + - Acts.17.16-Acts.17.17 + - Ps.16.4 + 11: + - Deut.7.5 + - Isa.30.22 + - question: >- + What are the sins forbidden in the second commandment? + number: 109 + answer: >- + The sins forbidden in the second commandment are, all devising,[1] + counseling,[2] commanding,[3] using,[4] and anywise approving, any + religious worship not instituted by God himself;[5] tolerating a false + religion;[6] the making any representation of God, of all or of any of + the three persons, either inwardly in our mind, or outwardly in any + kind of image or likeness of any creature whatsoever;[7] all + worshiping of it,[8] or God in it or by it;[9] the making of any + representation of feigned deities,[10] and all worship of them, or + service belonging to them;[11] all superstitious devices,[12] + corrupting the worship of God,[13] adding to it, or taking from + it,[14] whether invented and taken up of ourselves,[15] or received by + tradition from others,[16] though under the title of antiquity,[17] + custom,[18] devotion,[19] good intent, or any other pretense + whatsoever;[20] simony;[21] sacrilege;[22] all neglect,[23] + contempt,[24] hindering,[25] and opposing the worship and ordinances + which God hath appointed.[26] + verses: + 1: + - Num.15.39 + 2: + - Deut.13.6-Deut.13.8 + 3: + - Hos.5.11 + - Mic.6.16 + 4: + - 1Kgs.11.33 + - 1Kgs.12.33 + 5: + - Deut.12.30-Deut.12.32 + 6: + - Deut.4.15-Deut.4.19 + - Acts.17.29 + - Rom.1.21-Rom.1.23,Rom.1.25 + 7: + - Dan.3.18 + - Gal.4.8 + 8: + - Exod.32.5 + 9: + - Exod.32.8 + 10: + - 1Kgs.18.26,1Kgs.18.28 + - Isa.65.11 + 11: + - Acts.17.22 + - Col.2.21-Col.2.23 + 12: + - Mal.1.7-Mal.1.8,Mal.1.14 + 13: + - Deut.4.2 + 14: + - Ps.106.39 + 15: + - Matt.15.9 + 16: + - 1Pet.1.18 + 17: + - Jer.44.17 + 18: + - Isa.65.3-Isa.65.5 + - Gal.1.13-Gal.1.14 + 19: + - 1Sam.13.11-1Sam.13.12 + - 1Sam.15.21 + 20: + - Acts.8.18 + 21: + - Rom.2.22 + - Mal.3.8 + 22: + - Exod.4.24-Exod.4.26 + 23: + - Matt.22.5 + - Mal.1.7,Mal.1.13 + 24: + - Matt.23.13 + 25: + - Acts.13.44-Acts.13.45 + - 1Thess.2.15-1Thess.2.16 + - question: >- + What are the reasons annexed to the second commandment, the more to + enforce it? + number: 110 + answer: >- + The reasons annexed to the second commandment, the more to enforce it, + contained in these words, For I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, + visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third + and fourth generation of them that hate me; and showing mercy unto + thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments;[1] are, + besides God's sovereignty over us, and propriety in us,[2] his fervent + zeal for his own worship,[3] and his revengeful indignation against + all false worship, as being a spiritual whoredom;[4] accounting the + breakers of this commandment such as hate him, and threatening to + punish them unto divers generations;[5] and esteeming the observers of + it such as love him and keep his commandments, and promising mercy to + them unto many generations.[6] + verses: + 1: + - Exod.20.5-Exod.20.6 + 2: + - Ps.45.11 + - Rev.15.3-Rev.15.4 + 3: + - Exod.34.13-Exod.34.14 + 4: + - 1Cor.10.20-1Cor.10.22 + - Deut.32.16-Deut.32.20 + 5: + - Hos.2.2-Hos.2.4 + 6: + - Deut.5.29 + - question: >- + Which is the third commandment? + number: 111 + answer: >- + The third commandment is, Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy + God in vain: for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his + name in vain.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Exod.20.7 + - question: >- + What is required in the third commandment? + number: 112 + answer: >- + The third commandment requires, That the name of God, his titles, + attributes,[1] ordinances,[2] the word,[3] sacraments,[4] prayer,[5] + oaths,[6] vows,[7] lots,[8] his works,[9] and whatsoever else there is + whereby he makes himself known, be holily and reverently used in + thought,[10] meditation,[11] word,[12] and writing;[13] by an holy + profession,[14] and Answerable conversation,[15] to the glory of + God,[16] and the good of ourselves,[17] and others.[18] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.11.9 + - Deut.28.58 + - Ps.29.2 + - Ps.68.4 + - Rev.15.3-Rev.15.4 + 2: + - Mal.1.14 + - Eccl.5.1 + 3: + - Ps.138.2 + 4: + - 1Cor.11.24-1Cor.11.25,1Cor.11.28-1Cor.11.29 + 5: + - 1Tim.2.8 + 6: + - Jer.4.2 + 7: + - Eccl.5.2,Eccl.5.4-Eccl.5.6 + 8: + - Acts.1.24,Acts.1.26 + 9: + - Job.36.24 + 10: + - Mal.3.16 + 11: + - Ps.8.1,Ps.8.3-Ps.8.4,Ps.8.9 + 12: + - Col.3.17 + - Ps.105.2,Ps.105.5 + 13: + - Ps.102.18 + 14: + - 1Pet.3.15 + - Mic.4.5 + 15: + - Phil.1.27 + 16: + - 1Cor.10.31 + 17: + - Jer.32.39 + 18: + - 1Pet.2.12 + - question: >- + What are the sins forbidden in the third commandment? + number: 113 + answer: >- + The sins forbidden in the third commandment are, the not using of + God's name as is required;[1] and the abuse of it in an ignorant,[2] + vain,[3] irreverent, profane,[4] superstitious,[5] or wicked + mentioning, or otherwise using his titles, attributes,[6] + ordinances,[7] or works,[8] by blasphemy,[9] perjury;[10] all sinful + cursings,[11] oaths,[12] vows,[13] and lots;[14] violating of our + oaths and vows, if lawful;[15] and fulfilling them, if of things + unlawful;[16] murmuring and quarreling at,[17] curious prying + into,[18] and misapplying of God's decrees [19] and providences;[20] + misinterpreting,[21] misapplying,[22] or any way perverting the word, + or any part of it,[23] to profane jests,[24] curious or unprofitable + Questions,[25] vain janglings, or the maintaining of false + doctrines;[26] abusing it, the creatures, or anything contained under + the name of God, to charms,[27] or sinful lusts and practices;[28] the + maligning,[29] scorning,[30] reviling,[31] or any wise opposing of + God's truth, grace, and ways;[32] making profession of religion in + hypocrisy, or for sinister ends;[33] being ashamed of it,[34] or a + shame to it, by unconformable,[35] unwise,[36] unfruitful,[37] and + offensive walking,[38] or backsliding from it.[39] + verses: + 1: + - Mal.2.2 + 2: + - Acts.17.23 + 3: + - Prov.30.9 + 4: + - Mal.1.6-Mal.1.7,Mal.1.12 + - Mal.3.14 + 5: + - 1Sam.4.3-1Sam.4.5 + - Jer.7.4,Jer.7.9-Jer.7.10,Jer.7.14,Jer.7.31 + - Col.2.20-Col.2.22 + 6: + - 2Kgs.18.30,2Kgs.18.35 + - Exod.5.2 + - Ps.139.20 + 7: + - Ps.50.16-Ps.50.17 + 8: + - Isa.5.12 + 9: + - 2Kgs.19.22 + - Lev.24.11 + 10: + - Zech.5.4 + - Zech.8.17 + 11: + - 1Sam.17.43 + - 2Sam.16.5 + 12: + - Jer.5.7 + - Jer.23.10 + 13: + - Deut.23.18 + - Acts.23.12,Acts.23.14 + 14: + - Esth.3.7 + - Esth.9.24 + - Ps.22.18 + 15: + - Ps.24.4 + - Ezek.17.16,Ezek.17.18-Ezek.17.19 + 16: + - Mark.6.26 + - 1Sam.25.22,1Sam.25.32-1Sam.25.34 + 17: + - Rom.9.14,Rom.9.19-Rom.9.20 + 18: + - Deut.29.29 + 19: + - Rom.3.5,Rom.3.7 + - Rom.6.1 + 20: + - Eccl.8.11 + - Eccl.9.3 + 21: + - Matt.5.21-Matt.5.22 + 22: + - Ezek.13.22 + 23: + - 2Pet.3.16 + - Matt.22.24-Matt.22.31 + - Matt.25.28-Matt.25.30 + 24: + - Isa.22.13 + - Jer.23.34,Jer.23.36,Jer.23.38 + 25: + - 1Tim.1.4,1Tim.1.6-1Tim.1.7 + - 1Tim.6.4-1Tim.6.5,1Tim.6.20 + - 2Tim.2.14 + - Titus.3.9 + 26: + - Deut.18.10-Deut.18.14 + - Acts.19.13 + 27: + - 2Tim.4.3-2Tim.4.4 + - Rom.13.13-Rom.13.14 + - 1Kgs.21.9-1Kgs.21.10 + - Jude.1.4 + 28: + - Acts.13.45 + - 1John.3.12 + 29: + - Ps.1.1 + - 2Pet.3.3 + 30: + - 1Pet.4.4 + 31: + - Acts.13.45-Acts.13.46,Acts.13.50 + - Acts.4.18 + - Acts.19.9 + - 1Thess.2.16 + - Heb.10.29 + 32: + - 2Tim.3.5 + - Matt.6.1-Matt.6.2,Matt.6.5,Matt.6.16 + 33: + - Mark.8.38 + 34: + - Ps.73.14-Ps.73.15 + 35: + - 1Cor.6.5-1Cor.6.6 + - Eph.5.15-Eph.5.17 + 36: + - Isa.5.4 + - 2Pet.1.8-2Pet.1.9 + 37: + - Rom.2.23-Rom.2.24 + 38: + - Gal.3.1,Gal.3.3 + - Heb.6.6 + - question: >- + What reasons are annexed to the third commandment? + number: 114 + answer: >- + The reasons annexed to the third commandment, in these words, The Lord + thy God, and, For the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his + name in vain,[1] are, because he is the Lord and our God, therefore + his name is not to be profaned, or any way abused by us;[2] especially + because he will be so far from acquitting and sparing the + transgressors of this commandment, as that he will not suffer them to + escape his righteous judgment,[3] albeit many such escape the censures + and punishments of men.[4] + verses: + 1: + - Exod.20.7 + 2: + - Lev.19.12 + 3: + - Ezek.36.21-Ezek.36.23 + - Deut.28.58-Deut.28.59 + - Zech.5.2-Zech.5.4 + 4: + - 1Sam.2.12,1Sam.2.17,1Sam.2.22,1Sam.2.24 + - 1Sam.3.13 + - question: >- + Which is the fourth commandment? + number: 115 + answer: >- + The fourth commandment is, Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. + Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work: but the seventh day is + the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, + thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy + maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy + gates: For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and + all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord + blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Exod.20.8-Exod.20.11 + - question: >- + What is required in the fourth commandment? + number: 116 + answer: >- + The fourth commandment requires of all men the sanctifying or keeping + holy to God such set times as he hath appointed in his word, expressly + one whole day in seven; which was the seventh from the beginning of + the world to the resurrection of Christ, and the first day of the week + ever since, and so to continue to the end of the world; which is the + Christian sabbath,[1] and in the New Testament called The Lord's + day.[2] + verses: + 1: + - Deut.5.12-Deut.5.14 + - Gen.2.2-Gen.2.3 + - 1Cor.16.1-1Cor.16.2 + - Matt.5.17-Matt.5.18 + - Isa.56.2,Isa.56.4,Isa.56.6-Isa.56.7 + 2: + - Rev.1.10 + - question: >- + How is the sabbath or the Lord's day to be sanctified? + number: 117 + answer: >- + The sabbath or Lord's day is to be sanctified by an holy resting all + the day,[1] not only from such works as are at all times sinful, but + even from such worldly employments and recreations as are on other + days lawful;[2] and making it our delight to spend the whole time + (except so much of it as is to betaken up in works of necessity and + mercy)[3] in the public and private exercises of God's worship:[4] + and, to that end, we are to prepare our hearts, and with such + foresight, diligence, and moderation, to dispose and seasonably + dispatch our worldly business, that we may be the more free and fit + for the duties of that day.[5] + verses: + 1: + - Exod.20.8,Exod.20.10 + 2: + - Exod.16.25-Exod.16.28 + - Neh.13.15-Neh.13.22 + - Jer.17.21-Jer.17.22 + 3: + - Matt.12.1-Matt.12.13 + 4: + - Isa.58.13 + - Luke.4.16 + - Acts.20.7 + - 1Cor.16.1-1Cor.16.2 + - Ps.9 + - Isa.66.23 + - Lev.23.3 + 5: + - Exod.20.8 + - Luke.23.54,Luke.23.56 + - Exod.16.22,Exod.16.25-Exod.16.26,Exod.16.29 + - Neh.13.19 + - question: >- + Why is the charge of keeping the sabbath more specially directed to + governors of families, and other superiors? + number: 118 + answer: >- + The charge of keeping the sabbath is more specially directed to + governors of families, and other superiors, because they are bound not + only to keep it themselves, but to see that it be observed by all + those that are under their charge; and because they are prone ofttimes + to hinder them by employments of their own.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Exod.20.10 + - Josh.24.15 + - Neh.13.15,Neh.13.17 + - Jer.17.20-Jer.17.22 + - Exod.23.12 + - question: >- + What are the sins forbidden in the fourth commandment? + number: 119 + answer: >- + The sins forbidden in the fourth commandment are, all omissions of the + duties required,[1] all careless, negligent, and unprofitable + performing of them, and being weary of them;[2] all profaning the day + by idleness, and doing that which is in itself sinful;[3] and by all + needless works, words, and thoughts, about our worldly employments and + recreations.[4] + verses: + 1: + - Ezek.22.26 + 2: + - Acts.20.7,Acts.20.9 + - Ezek.33.30-Ezek.33.32 + - Amos.8.5 + - Mal.1.13 + 3: + - Ezek.23.38 + 4: + - Jer.17.24,Jer.17.27 + - Isa.58.13 + - question: >- + What are the reasons annexed to the fourth commandment, the more to + enforce it? + number: 120 + answer: >- + The reasons annexed to the fourth commandment, the more to enforce it, + are taken from the equity of it, God allowing us six days of seven for + our own affairs, and reserving but one for himself, in these words, + Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work:[1] from God's + challenging a special propriety in that day, The seventh day is the + sabbath of the Lord thy God:[2] from the example of God, who in six + days made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and + rested the seventh day: and from that blessing which God put upon that + day, not only in sanctifying it to be a day for his service, but in + ordaining it to be a means of blessing to us in our sanctifying it; + Wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.[3] + verses: + 1: + - Exod.20.9 + 2: + - Exod.20.10 + 3: + - Exod.20.11 + - question: >- + Why is the word Remember set in the beginning of the fourth + commandment? + number: 121 + answer: >- + The word Remember is set in the beginning of the fourth + commandment,[1] partly, because of the great benefit of remembering + it, we being thereby helped in our preparation to keep it,[2] and, in + keeping it, better to keep all the rest of the commandments,[3] and to + continue a thankful remembrance of the two great benefits of creation + and redemption, which contain a short abridgment of religion;[4] and + partly, because we are very ready to forget it,[5] for that there is + less light of nature for it,[6] and yet it restraineth our natural + liberty in things at other times lawful;[7] that it comesthbut once in + seven days, and many worldly businesses come between, and too often + take off our minds from thinking of it, either to prepare for it, or + to sanctify it;[8] and that Satan with his instruments much labor to + blot out the glory, and even the memory of it, to bring in all + irreligion and impiety.[9] + verses: + 1: + - Exod.20.8 + 2: + - Exod.16.23 + - Luke.23.54,Luke.23.56 + - Neh.13.19 + 3: + - Ps.92 + - Ezek.20.12,Ezek.20.19-Ezek.20.20 + 4: + - Gen.2.2-Gen.2.3 + - Ps.118.22,Ps.118.24 + - Acts.4.10-Acts.4.11 + - Rev.1.10 + 5: + - Ezek.22.26 + 6: + - Neh.9.14 + 7: + - Exod.34.21 + 8: + - Deut.5.14-Deut.5.15 + - Amos.8.5 + 9: + - Lam.1.7 + - Jer.17.21-Jer.17.23 + - Neh.13.15-Neh.13.22 + - question: >- + What is the sum of the six commandments which contain our duty to man? + number: 122 + answer: >- + The sum of the six commandments which contain our duty to man is, to + love our neighbor as ourselves,[1] and to do to others what we would + have them to do to us.[2] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.22.39 + 2: + - Matt.7.12 + - question: >- + Which is the fifth commandment? + number: 123 + answer: >- + The fifth commandment is, Honor thy father and thy mother; that thy + days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Exod.20.12 + - question: >- + Who are meant by father and mother in the fifth commandment? + number: 124 + answer: >- + By father and mother, in the fifth commandment, are meant, not only + natural parents,[1] but all superiors in age [2] and gifts;[3] and + especially such as, by God's ordinance, are over us in place of + authority, whether in family,[4] church,[5] or commonwealth.[6] + verses: + 1: + - Prov.23.22,Prov.23.25 + - Eph.6.1-Eph.6.2 + 2: + - 1Tim.5.1-1Tim.5.2 + 3: + - Gen.4.20-Gen.4.22 + - Gen.45.8 + 4: + - 2Kgs.5.13 + 5: + - 2Kgs.2.12 + - 2Kgs.13.14 + - Gal.4.19 + 6: + - Isa.49.23 + - question: >- + Why are superiors styled Father and Mother? + number: 125 + answer: >- + Superiors are styled Father and Mother, both to teach them in all + duties toward their inferiors, like natural parents, to express love + and tenderness to them, according to their several relations;[1] and + to work inferiors to a greater willingness and cheerfulness in + performing their duties to their superiors, as to their parents.[2] + verses: + 1: + - Eph.6.4 + - 2Cor.12.14 + - 1Thess.2.7-1Thess.2.8,1Thess.2.11 + - Num.11.11-Num.11.12 + 2: + - 1Cor.4.14-1Cor.4.16 + - 2Kgs.5.13 + - question: >- + What is the general scope of the fifth commandment? + number: 126 + answer: >- + The general scope of the fifth commandment is, the performance of + those duties which we mutually owe in our several relations, as + inferiors, superiors, or equals.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Eph.5.21 + - 1Pet.2.17 + - Rom.12.10 + - question: >- + What is the honor that inferiors owe to their superiors? + number: 127 + answer: >- + The honor which inferiors owe to their superiors is, all due reverence + in heart,[1] word,[2] and behavior;[3] prayer and thanksgiving for + them;[4] imitation of their virtues and graces;[5] willing obedience + to their lawful commands and counsels;[6] due submission to their + corrections;[7] fidelity to,[8] defense [9] and maintenance of their + persons and authority, according to their several ranks, and the + nature of their places;[10] bearing with their infirmities, and + covering them in love, that so they may be an honor to them and to + their government.[11] + verses: + 1: + - Mal.1.6 + - Lev.19.3 + 2: + - Prov.31.28 + 3: + - Lev.19.32 + - 1Kgs.2.19 + 4: + - 1Tim.2.1-1Tim.2.2 + 5: + - Heb.13.7 + - Phil.3.17 + 6: + - Eph.6.1-Eph.6.2,Eph.6.6-Eph.6.7 + - 1Pet.2.13-1Pet.2.14 + - Rom.13.1-Rom.13.5 + - Heb.13.17 + - Prov.4.3-Prov.4.4 + - Prov.23.22 + - Exod.18.19,Exod.18.24 + 7: + - Heb.12.9 + - 1Pet.2.18-1Pet.2.20 + 8: + - Titus.2.9-Titus.2.10 + 9: + - 1Sam.26.15-1Sam.26.16 + - 2Sam.18.3 + - Esth.6.2 + 10: + - Matt.22.21 + - Rom.13.6-Rom.13.7 + - 1Tim.5.17-1Tim.5.18 + - Gal.6.6 + - Gen.45.11 + - Gen.47.12 + 11: + - 1Pet.2.18 + - Prov.23.22 + - Gen.9.23 + 12: + - Ps.127.3-Ps.127.5 + - Prov.31.23 + - question: >- + What are the sins of inferiors against their superiors? + number: 128 + answer: >- + The sins of inferiors against their superiors are, all neglect of the + duties required toward them;[1] envying at,[2] contempt of,[3] and + rebellion [4] against, their persons [5] and places,[6] in their + lawful counsels,[7] commands, and corrections;[8] cursing, mocking,[9] + and all such refractory and scandalous carriage, as proves a shame and + dishonor to them and their government.[10] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.15.4-Matt.15.6 + 2: + - Num.11.28-Num.11.29 + 3: + - 2Sam.15.1-2Sam.15.12 + 4: + - Exod.21.15 + 5: + - 1Sam.10.27 + 6: + - 1Sam.2.25 + 7: + - Deut.21.18-Deut.21.21 + 8: + - Prov.30.11,Prov.30.17 + 9: + - Prov.19.26 + - question: >- + What is required of superiors towards their inferiors? + number: 129 + answer: >- + It is required of superiors, according to that power they receive from + God, and that relation wherein they stand, to love,[1] pray for,[2] + and bless their inferiors;[3] to instruct,[4] counsel, and admonish + them;[5] countenancing,[6] commending,[7] and rewarding such as do + well;[8] and discountenancing,[9] reproving, and chastising such as do + ill;[10] protecting,[11] and providing for them all things necessary + for soul [12] and body:[13] and by grave, wise, holy, and exemplary + carriage, to procure glory to God,[14] honor to themselves,[15] and so + to preserve that authority which God hath put upon them.[16] + verses: + 1: + - Col.3.19 + - Titus.2.4 + 2: + - 1Sam.12.23 + - Job.1.5 + 3: + - 1Kgs.8.55-1Kgs.8.56 + - Heb.7.7 + - Gen.49.28 + 4: + - Deut.6.6-Deut.6.7 + 5: + - Eph.6.4 + 6: + - 1Pet.3.7 + 7: + - 1Pet.2.14 + - Rom.13.3 + 8: + - Esth.6.3 + 9: + - Rom.13.3-Rom.13.4 + 10: + - Prov.29.15 + - 1Pet.2.14 + 11: + - Job.29.13-Job.29.16 + - Isa.1.10,Isa.1.17 + 12: + - Eph.6.4 + 13: + - 1Tim.5.8 + 14: + - 1Tim.4.12 + - Titus.2.3-Titus.2.5 + 15: + - 1Kgs.3.28 + 16: + - Titus.2.15 + - question: >- + What are the sins of superiors? + number: 130 + answer: >- + The sins of superiors are, besides the neglect of the duties required + of them,[1] an inordinate seeking of themselves,[2] their own + glory,[3] ease, profit, or pleasure;[4] commanding things unlawful,[5] + or not in the power of inferiors to perform;[6] counseling,[7] + encouraging,[8] or favoring them in that which is evil;[9] dissuading, + discouraging, or discountenancing them in that which is good;[10] + correcting them unduly;[11] careless exposing, or leaving them to + wrong, temptation, and danger;[12] provoking them to wrath;[13] or any + way dishonoring themselves, or lessening their authority, by an + unjust, indiscreet, rigorous, or remiss behavior.[14] + verses: + 1: + - Ezek.34.2-Ezek.34.4 + 2: + - Phil.2.21 + 3: + - John.5.44 + - John.7.18 + 4: + - Isa.56.10-Isa.56.11 + - Deut.17.17 + 5: + - Dan.3.4-Dan.3.6 + - Acts.4.17-Acts.4.18 + 6: + - Exod.5.10-Exod.5.18 + - Matt.23.2,Matt.23.4 + 7: + - Matt.14.8 + - Mark.6.24 + 8: + - 2Sam.13.28 + 9: + - 1Sam.3.13 + 10: + - John.7.46-John.7.49 + - Exod.5.17 + 11: + - 1Pet.2.18-1Pet.2.20 + - Heb.12.10 + - Deut.25.3 + 12: + - Gen.38.11,Gen.38.26 + - Acts.18.17 + 13: + - Eph.6.4 + 14: + - Gen.9.21 + - 1Kgs.12.13-1Kgs.12.16 + - 1Kgs.1.6 + - 1Sam.2.29-1Sam.2.31 + - question: >- + What are the duties of equals? + number: 131 + answer: >- + The duties of equals are, to regard the dignity and worth of each + other,[1] in giving honor to go one before another;[2] and to rejoice + in each other's gifts and advancement, as their own.[3] + verses: + 1: + - 1Pet.2.17 + 2: + - Rom.12.10 + 3: + - Rom.12.15-Rom.12.16 + - Phil.2.3-Phil.2.4 + - question: >- + What are the sins of equals? + number: 132 + answer: >- + The sins of equals are, besides the neglect of the duties required,[1] + the undervaluing of the worth,[2] envying the gifts,[3] grieving at + the advancement of prosperity one of another;[4] and usurping + preeminence one over another.[5] + verses: + 1: + - Rom.13.8 + 2: + - 2Tim.3.3 + 3: + - Acts.7.9 + - Gal.5.26 + 4: + - Num.12.2 + - Esth.6.12-Esth.6.13 + 5: + - 3John.1.9 + - Luke.22.24 + - question: >- + What is the reason annexed to the fifth commandment, the more to + enforce it? + number: 133 + answer: >- + The reason annexed to the fifth commandment, in these words, That thy + days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee,[1] + is an express promise of long life and prosperity, as far as it shall + serve for God's glory and their own good, to all such as keep this + commandment.[2] + verses: + 1: + - Exod.20.12 + 2: + - Deut.5.16 + - 1Kgs.8.25 + - Eph.6.2-Eph.6.3 + - question: >- + Which is the sixth commandment? + number: 134 + answer: >- + The sixth commandment is, Thou shalt not kill.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Exod.20.13 + - question: >- + What are the duties required in the sixth commandment? + number: 135 + answer: >- + The duties required in the sixth commandment are, all careful studies, + and lawful endeavors, to preserve the life of ourselves [1] and others + [2] by resisting all thoughts and purposes,[3] subduing all + passions,[4] and avoiding all occasions,[5] temptations,[6] and + practices, which tend to the unjust taking away the life of any;[7] by + just defense thereof against violence,[8] patient bearing of the hand + of God,[9] quietness of mind,[10] cheerfulness of spirit;[11] a sober + use of meat,[12] drink,[13] physic,[14] sleep,[15] labor,[16] and + recreations;[17] by charitable thoughts,[18] love,[19] compassion,[20] + meekness, gentleness, kindness;[21] peaceable,[22] mild and courteous + speeches and behavior;[23] forbearance, readiness to be reconciled, + patient bearing and forgiving of injuries, and requiting good for + evil;[24] comforting and succoring the distressed, and protecting and + defending the innocent.[25] + verses: + 1: + - Eph.5.28-Eph.5.29 + 2: + - 1Kgs.18.4 + 3: + - Jer.26.15-Jer.26.16 + - Acts.23.12,Acts.23.16-Acts.23.17,Acts.23.21,Acts.23.27 + 4: + - Eph.4.26-Eph.4.27 + 5: + - 2Sam.2.22 + - Deut.22.8 + 6: + - Matt.4.6-Matt.4.7 + - Prov.1.10-Prov.1.11,Prov.1.15-Prov.1.16 + 7: + - 1Sam.24.12 + - 1Sam.26.9-1Sam.26.11 + - Gen.37.21-Gen.37.22 + 8: + - Ps.82.4 + - Prov.24.11-Prov.24.12 + - 1Sam.14.45 + 9: + - Jas.5.7-Jas.5.11 + - Heb.12.9 + 10: + - 1Thess.4.11 + - 1Pet.3.3-1Pet.3.4 + - Ps.37.8-Ps.37.11 + 11: + - Prov.17.22 + 12: + - Prov.25.16,Prov.25.27 + 13: + - 1Tim.5.23 + 14: + - Isa.38.21 + 15: + - Ps.127.2 + 16: + - Eccl.5.12 + - 2Thess.3.10,2Thess.3.12 + - Prov.16.20 + 17: + - Eccl.3.4,Eccl.3.11 + 18: + - 1Sam.19.4-1Sam.19.5 + - 1Sam.22.13-1Sam.22.14 + 19: + - Rom.13.10 + 20: + - Luke.10.33-Luke.10.34 + 21: + - Col.3.12-Col.3.13 + 22: + - Jas.3.17 + 23: + - 1Pet.3.8-1Pet.3.11 + - Prov.15.1 + - Judg.8.1-Judg.8.3 + 24: + - Matt.5.24 + - Eph.5.2,Eph.5.32 + - Rom.12.17 + 25: + - 1Thess.5.14 + - Job.31.19-Job.31.20 + - Matt.25.35-Matt.25.36 + - Prov.31.8-Prov.31.9 + - question: >- + What are the sins forbidden in the sixth commandment? + number: 136 + answer: >- + The sins forbidden in the sixth commandment are, all taking away the + life of ourselves,[1] or of others,[2] except in case of public + justice,[3] lawful war,[4] or necessary defense;[5] the neglecting or + withdrawing the lawful and necessary means of preservation of life;[6] + sinful anger,[7] hatred,[8] envy,[9] desire of revenge;[10] all + excessive passions,[11] distracting cares;[12] immoderate use of meat, + drink,[13] labor,[14] and recreations;[15] provoking words,[16] + oppression,[17] quarreling,[18] striking, wounding,[19] and: + Whatsoever else tends to the destruction of the life of any.[20] + verses: + 1: + - Acts.16.28 + 2: + - Gen.9.6 + 3: + - Num.35.31,Num.35.33 + 4: + - Jer.48.10 + - Deut.20.1 + 5: + - Exod.22.2-Exod.22.3 + 6: + - Matt.25.42-Matt.25.43 + - Jas.2.15-Jas.2.16 + - Eccl.6.1-Eccl.6.2 + 7: + - Matt.5.22 + 8: + - 1John.3.15 + 9: + - Prov.14.30 + 10: + - Rom.12.19 + 11: + - Eph.4.31 + 12: + - Matt.6.31,Matt.6.34 + 13: + - Luke.21.34 + - Rom.13.13 + 14: + - Eccl.12.12 + - Eccl.2.22-Eccl.2.23 + 15: + - Isa.5.12 + 16: + - Prov.15.1 + 17: + - Ezek.18.18 + - Exod.1.14 + 18: + - Gal.5.15 + 19: + - Num.35.16-Num.35.18,Num.35.21 + 20: + - Exod.21.18-Exod.21.36 + - question: >- + Which is the seventh commandment? + number: 137 + answer: >- + The seventh commandment is, Thou shalt not commit adultery.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Exod.20.14 + - question: >- + What are the duties required in the seventh commandment? + number: 138 + answer: >- + The duties required in the seventh commandment are, chastity in body, + mind, affections,[1] words,[2] and behavior;[3] and the preservation + of it in ourselves and others;[4] watchfulness over the eyes and all + the senses;[5] temperance,[6] keeping of chaste company,[7] modesty in + apparel;[8] marriage by those that have not the gift of continency,[9] + conjugal love,[10] and cohabitation;[11] diligent labor in our + callings;[12] shunning all occasions of uncleanness, and resisting + temptations thereunto.[13] + verses: + 1: + - 1Thess.4.4 + - Job.31.1 + - 1Cor.7.34 + 2: + - Col.4.6 + 3: + - 1Pet.3.2 + 4: + - 1Cor.7.2,1Cor.7.35-1Cor.7.36 + 5: + - Job.31.1 + 6: + - Acts.24.24-Acts.24.25 + 7: + - Prov.2.16-Prov.2.20 + 8: + - 1Tim.2.9 + 9: + - 1Cor.7.2,1Cor.7.9 + 10: + - Prov.5.19-Prov.5.20 + 11: + - 1Pet.3.7 + 12: + - Prov.31.11,Prov.31.27-Prov.31.28 + 13: + - Prov.5.8 + - Gen.39.8-Gen.39.10 + - question: >- + What are the sins forbidden in the seventh commandment? + number: 139 + answer: >- + The sins forbidden in the seventh commandment, besides the neglect of + the duties required,[1] are, adultery, fornication,[2] rape, + incest,[3] sodomy, and all unnatural lusts;[4] all unclean + imaginations, thoughts, purposes, and affections;[5] all corrupt or + filthy communications, or listening thereunto;[6] wanton looks,[7] + impudent or light behavior, immodest apparel;[8] prohibiting of + lawful,[9] and dispensing with unlawful marriages;[10] allowing, + tolerating, keeping of stews, and resorting to them;[11] entangling + vows of single life,[12] undue delay of marriage;[13] having more + wives or husbands than one at the same time;[14] unjust divorce,[15] + or desertion;[16] idleness, gluttony, drunkenness,[17] unchaste + company;[18] lascivious songs, books, pictures, dancings, stage + plays;[19] and all other provocations to, or acts of uncleanness, + either in ourselves or others.[20] + verses: + 1: + - Prov.5.7 + 2: + - Heb.13.4 + - Gal.5.19 + 3: + - 2Sam.13.14 + - 1Cor.5.1 + 4: + - Rom.1.24,Rom.1.26-Rom.1.27 + - Lev.20.15-Lev.20.16 + 5: + - Matt.5.28 + - Matt.15.19 + - Col.3.5 + 6: + - Eph.5.3-Eph.5.4 + - Prov.7.5,Prov.7.21-Prov.7.22 + 7: + - Isa.3.16 + - 2Pet.2.14 + 8: + - Prov.7.10,Prov.7.13 + 9: + - 1Tim.4.3 + 10: + - Lev.18.1-Lev.18.21 + - Mark.6.18 + - Mal.2.11-Mal.2.12 + 11: + - 1Kgs.15.12 + - 2Kgs.23.7 + - Deut.23.17-Deut.23.18 + - Lev.19.29 + - Jer.5.7 + - Prov.7.24-Prov.7.27 + 12: + - Matt.19.10-Matt.19.11 + 13: + - 1Cor.7.7-1Cor.7.9 + - Gen.38.26 + 14: + - Mal.2.14-Mal.2.15 + - Matt.19.5 + 15: + - Mal.2.16 + - Matt.5.32 + 16: + - 1Cor.7.12-1Cor.7.13 + 17: + - Ezek.16.49 + - Prov.23.30-Prov.23.33 + 18: + - Gen.39.19 + - Prov.5.8 + 19: + - Eph.5.4 + - Ezek.23.14-Ezek.23.16 + - Isa.23.15-Isa.23.17 + - Isa.3.16 + - Mark.6.22 + - 1Pet.4.3 + 20: + - 2Kgs.9.30 + - Jer.4.30 + - Ezek.23.40 + - question: >- + Which is the eighth commandment? + number: 140 + answer: >- + The eighth commandment is, Thou shalt not steal.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Exod.20.15 + - question: >- + What are the duties required in the eighth commandment? + number: 141 + answer: >- + The duties required in the eighth commandment are, truth, + faithfulness, and justice in contracts and commerce between man and + man;[1] rendering to everyone his due;[2] restitution of goods + unlawfully detained from the right owners thereof;[3] giving and + lending freely, according to our abilities, and the necessities of + others;[4] moderation of our judgments, wills, and affections + concerning worldly goods;[5] a provident care and study to get,[6] + keep, use, and dispose these things which are necessary and convenient + for the sustentation of our nature, and suitable to our condition;[7] + a lawful calling,[8] and diligence in it;[9] frugality;[10] avoiding + unnecessary lawsuits [11] and suretyship, or other like + engagements;[12] and an endeavor, by all just and lawful means, to + procure, preserve, and further the wealth and outward estate of + others, as well as our own.[13] + verses: + 1: + - Ps.15.2,Ps.15.4 + - Zech.7.4,Zech.7.10 + - Zech.8.16-Zech.8.17 + 2: + - Lev.6.2-Lev.6.5 + - Luke.19.8 + 3: + - Luke.6.30,Luke.6.38 + - 1John.3.17 + - Eph.4.28 + - Gal.6.10 + 4: + - 1Tim.6.6-1Tim.6.9 + 5: + - 1Tim.5.8 + 6: + - Prov.27.23-Prov.27.27 + - Eccl.3.12-Eccl.3.13 + - Isa.38.1 + - Matt.11.8 + 7: + - 1Cor.7.20 + - Gen.3.19 + 8: + - Eph.4.28 + - Prov.10.4 + 9: + - John.6.12 + - Prov.21.20 + 10: + - 1Cor.6.1-1Cor.6.9 + 11: + - Prov.6.1-Prov.6.6 + 12: + - Lev.25.35 + - Deut.22.1-Deut.22.4 + - Exod.23.4-Exod.23.5 + - Phil.2.4 + - question: >- + What are the sins forbidden in the eighth commandment? + number: 142 + answer: >- + The sins forbidden in the eighth commandment, besides the neglect of + the duties required,[1] are, theft,[2] robbery,[3] man-stealing,[4] + and receiving anything that is stolen;[5] fraudulent dealing,[6] false + weights and measures,[7] removing land marks,[8] injustice and + unfaithfulness in contracts between man and man,[9] or in matters of + trust;[10] oppression,[11] extortion,[12] usury,[13] bribery,[14] + vexatious lawsuits,[15] unjust enclosures and depopulations;[16] + engrossing commodities to enhance the price;[17] unlawful + callings,[18] and all other unjust or sinful ways of taking or + withholding from our neighbor what belongs to him, or of enriching + ourselves;[19] covetousness;[20] inordinate prizing and affecting + worldly goods;[21] distrustful and distracting cares and studies in + getting, keeping, and using them;[22] envying at the prosperity of + others;[23] as likewise idleness,[24] prodigality, wasteful gaming; + and all other ways whereby we do unduly prejudice our own outward + estate,[25] and defrauding ourselves of the due use and comfort of + that estate which God hath given us.[26] + verses: + 1: + - Jas.2.15-Jas.2.16 + - 1John.3.17 + 2: + - Eph.4.28 + 3: + - Ps.62.10 + 4: + - 1Tim.1.10 + 5: + - Prov.29.24 + - Ps.50.18 + 6: + - 1Thess.4.6 + 7: + - Prov.11.1 + 8: + - Deut.19.14 + - Prov.23.10 + 9: + - Amos.8.5 + - Ps.37.21 + 10: + - Luke.16.10-Luke.16.12 + 11: + - Ezek.22.29 + - Lev.25.17 + 12: + - Matt.23.25 + - Ezek.22.12 + 13: + - Ps.15.5 + 14: + - Job.15.34 + 15: + - 1Cor.6.6-1Cor.6.8 + - Prov.3.29-Prov.3.30 + 16: + - Isa.5.8 + - Mic.2.2 + 17: + - Prov.11.26 + 18: + - Acts.19.19,Acts.19.24-Acts.19.25 + 19: + - Job.20.19 + - Jas.5.4 + - Prov.21.6 + 20: + - Luke.12.15 + 21: + - 1Tim.6.5 + - Col.3.2 + - Prov.23.5 + - Ps.62.10 + 22: + - Matt.6.25,Matt.6.31,Matt.6.34 + - Eccl.5.12 + 23: + - Ps.73.3 + - Ps.37.1,Ps.37.7 + 24: + - 2Thess.3.11 + - Prov.18.9 + 25: + - Prov.21.17 + - Prov.23.20-Prov.23.21 + - Prov.28.19 + 26: + - Eccl.4.8 + - Eccl.6.2 + - 1Tim.5.8 + - question: >- + Which is the ninth commandment? + number: 143 + answer: >- + The ninth commandment is, Thou shalt not bear false witness against + thy neighbor.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Exod.20.16 + - question: >- + What are the duties required in the ninth commandment? + number: 144 + answer: >- + The duties required in the ninth commandment are, the preserving and + promoting of truth between man and man,[1] and the good name of our + neighbor, as well as our own;[12] appearing and standing for the + truth;[3] and from the heart,[4] sincerely,[5] freely,[6] clearly,[7] + and fully,[8] speaking the truth, and only the truth, in matters of + judgment and justice,[9] and in all other things whatsoever;[10] a + charitable esteem of our neighbors;[11] loving, desiring, and + rejoicing in their good name;[12] sorrowing for,[13] and covering of + their infirmities;[14] freely acknowledging of their gifts and + graces,[15] defending their innocency;[16] a ready receiving of a good + report,[17] and unwillingness to admit of an evil report,[18] + concerning them; discouraging talebearers,[19] flatterers,[20] and + slanderers;[21] love and care of our own good name, and defending it + when need requireth;[22] keeping of lawful promises;[23] studying and + practicing of whatsoever things are true, honest, lovely, and of good + report.[24] + verses: + 1: + - Zech.8.16 + 2: + - 3John.1.12 + 3: + - Prov.31.8-Prov.31.9 + 4: + - Ps.15.2 + 5: + - 2Chr.19.9 + 6: + - 1Sam.19.4-1Sam.19.5 + 7: + - Josh.7.19 + 8: + - 2Sam.14.18-2Sam.14.20 + 9: + - Lev.19.15 + 10: + - 2Cor.1.17-2Cor.1.18 + - Eph.4.25 + 11: + - Heb.6.9 + - 1Cor.13.7 + 12: + - Rom.1.8 + - 2John.1.4 + - 3John.1.3-3John.1.4 + 13: + - 2Cor.2.4 + - 2Cor.12.21 + 14: + - Prov.17.9 + - 1Pet.4.8 + 15: + - 1Cor.1.4-1Cor.1.5,1Cor.1.7 + - 2Tim.1.4-2Tim.1.5 + 16: + - 1Sam.22.14 + 17: + - 1Cor.13.6-1Cor.13.7 + 18: + - Ps.15.3 + 19: + - Prov.25.23 + 20: + - Prov.26.24-Prov.26.25 + 21: + - Ps.101.5 + 22: + - Prov.22.1 + - John.8.49 + 23: + - Ps.15.4 + 24: + - Phil.4.8 + - question: >- + What are the sins forbidden in the ninth commandment? + number: 145 + answer: >- + The sins forbidden in the ninth commandment are, all prejudicing the + truth, and the good name of our neighbors, as well as our own,[1] + especially in public judicature;[2] giving false evidence,[3] + suborning false witnesses,[4] wittingly appearing and pleading for an + evil cause, outfacing and overbearing the truth;[5] passing unjust + sentence,[6] calling evil good, and good evil; rewarding the wicked + according to the work of the righteous, and the righteous according to + the work of the wicked;[7] forgery,[8] concealing the truth, undue + silence in a just cause,[9] and holding our peace when iniquity + calleth for either a reproof from ourselves,[10] or complaint to + others;[11] speaking the truth unseasonably,[12] or maliciously to a + wrong end,[13] or perverting it to a wrong meaning,[14] or in doubtful + and equivocal expressions, to the prejudice of truth or justice;[15] + speaking untruth,[16] lying,[17] slandering,[18] backbiting,[19] + detracting,[20] tale bearing,[21] whispering,[22] scoffing,[23] + reviling,[24] rash,[25] harsh,[26] and partial censuring;[27] + misconstructing intentions, words, and actions;[28] flattering,[29] + vainglorious boasting,[30] thinking or speaking too highly or too + meanly of ourselves or others;[31] denying the gifts and graces of + God;[32] aggravating smaller faults;[33] hiding, excusing, or + extenuating of sins, when called to a free confession;[34] unnecessary + discovering of infirmities;[35] raising false rumors,[36] receiving + and countenancing evil reports,[37] and stopping our ears against just + defense;[38] evil suspicion;[39] envying or grieving at the deserved + credit of any,[40] endeavoring or desiring to impair it,[41] rejoicing + in their disgrace and infamy;[42] scornful contempt,[43] fond + admiration;[44] breach of lawful promises;[45] neglecting such things + as are of good report,[46] and practicing, or not avoiding ourselves, + or not hindering: What we can in others, such things as procure an ill + name.[47] + verses: + 1: + - 1Sam.17.28 + - 2Sam.16.3 + - 2Sam.1.9-2Sam.1.10,2Sam.1.15-2Sam.1.16 + 2: + - Lev.19.15 + - Hab.1.4 + 3: + - Prov.19.5 + - Prov.6.16,Prov.6.19 + 4: + - Acts.6.13 + 5: + - Jer.9.3,Jer.9.5 + - Acts.24.2,Acts.24.5 + - Ps.12.3-Ps.12.4 + - Ps.52.1-Ps.52.4 + 6: + - Prov.17.15 + - 1Kgs.21.9-1Kgs.21.14 + 7: + - Isa.5.23 + 8: + - Ps.119.69 + - Luke.19.8 + - Luke.16.5-Luke.16.7 + 9: + - Lev.5.1 + - Deut.13.8 + - Acts.5.3,Acts.5.8-Acts.5.9 + - 2Tim.4.6 + 10: + - 1Kgs.1.6 + - Lev.19.17 + 11: + - Isa.59.4 + 12: + - Prov.29.11 + 13: + - 1Sam.22.9-1Sam.22.10 + - Ps.52.1-Ps.52.5 + 14: + - Ps.56.5 + - John.2.19 + - Matt.26.60-Matt.26.61 + 15: + - Gen.3.5 + - Gen.26.7,Gen.26.9 + 16: + - Isa.59.13 + 17: + - Lev.19.11 + - Col.3.9 + 18: + - Ps.50.20 + 19: + - Jas.4.11 + - Jer.38.4 + 20: + - Lev.19.19 + 21: + - Rom.1.29-Rom.1.30 + 22: + - Gen.21.9 + - Gal.4.29 + 23: + - 1Cor.6.10 + 24: + - Matt.7.1 + 25: + - Acts.28.4 + 26: + - Gen.38.24 + - Rom.2.1 + 27: + - Neh.6.6-Neh.6.8 + - Rom.3.8 + - Ps.69.10 + - 1Sam.1.13-1Sam.1.15 + - 2Sam.10.3 + 28: + - Ps.12.2-Ps.12.3 + 29: + - 2Tim.3.2 + 30: + - Luke.18.9,Luke.18.11 + - Rom.12.16 + - 1Cor.4.6 + - Acts.12.22 + - Exod.4.10-Exod.4.14 + 31: + - Job.27.5-Job.27.6 + 32: + - Matt.7.3-Matt.7.5 + 33: + - Prov.28.13 + - Prov.30.20 + - Gen.3.12-Gen.3.13 + - Jer.2.35 + - 2Kgs.5.25 + - Gen.4.9 + 34: + - Gen.9.22 + - Prov.25.9-Prov.25.10 + 35: + - Exod.23.1 + 36: + - Prov.29.12 + 37: + - Acts.7.56-Acts.7.57 + - Job.31.13-Job.31.14 + 38: + - 1Cor.13.5 + - 1Tim.6.4 + 39: + - Num.11.29 + - Matt.21.15 + 40: + - Ezra.4.12-Ezra.4.13 + 41: + - Jer.48.27 + 42: + - Ps.35.15-Ps.35.16,Ps.35.21 + - Matt.27.28-Matt.27.29 + 43: + - Jude.1.16 + - Acts.12.22 + 44: + - Rom.1.31 + - 2Tim.3.3 + 45: + - 1Sam.2.24 + 46: + - 2Sam.13.12-2Sam.13.13 + - Prov.5.8-Prov.5.9 + - Prov.6.33 + - question: >- + Which is the tenth commandment? + number: 146 + answer: >- + The tenth commandment is, Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house, + thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his manservant, nor his + maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy + neighbor's.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Exod.20.17 + - question: >- + What are the duties required in the tenth commandment? + number: 147 + answer: >- + The duties required in the tenth commandment are, such a full + contentment with our own condition,[1] and such a charitable frame of + the whole soul toward our neighbor, as that all our inward motions and + affections touching him, tend unto, and further all that good which is + his.[2] + verses: + 1: + - Heb.13.5 + - 1Tim.6.6 + 2: + - Job.31.29 + - Rom.12.15 + - Ps.122.7-Ps.122.9 + - Esth.10.3 + - 1Cor.13.4-1Cor.13.7 + - question: >- + What are the sins forbidden in the tenth commandment? + number: 148 + answer: >- + The sins forbidden in the tenth commandment are, discontentment with + our own estate;[1] envying [2] and grieving at the good of our + neighbor,[3] together with all inordinate motions and affections to + anything that is his.[4] + verses: + 1: + - 1Kgs.21.4 + - Esth.5.13 + - 1Cor.10.10 + 2: + - Gal.5.26 + - Jas.3.14,Jas.3.16 + 3: + - Ps.112.9-Ps.112.10 + - Neh.2.10 + 4: + - Rom.7.7-Rom.7.8 + - Rom.13.9 + - Col.3.5 + - Deut.5.21 + - question: >- + Is any man able perfectly to keep the commandments of God? + number: 149 + answer: >- + No man is able, either of himself,[1] or by any grace received in this + life, perfectly to keep the commandments of God;[2] but doth daily + break them in thought,[3] word, and deed.[4] + verses: + 1: + - Jas.3.2 + - John.15.5 + - Rom.8.3 + 2: + - Eccl.7.20 + - 1John.1.8,1John.1.10 + - Gal.5.17 + - Rom.7.18-Rom.7.19 + 3: + - Gen.6.5 + - Gen.8.21 + 4: + - Rom.3.9-Rom.3.19 + - Jas.3.2-Jas.3.13 + - question: >- + Are all transgressions of the law of God equally heinous in + themselves, and in the sight of God? + number: 150 + answer: >- + All transgressions of the law of God are not equally heinous; but some + sins in themselves, and by reason of several aggravations, are more + heinous in the sight of God than others.[1] + verses: + 1: + - John.19.11 + - Ezek.8.6,Ezek.8.13,Ezek.8.15 + - 1John.5.16 + - Ps.78.17,Ps.78.32,Ps.78.56 + - question: >- + What are those aggravations that make some sins more heinous than + others? + number: 151 + answer: >- + Sins receive their aggravations, 1. From the persons offending:[1] if + they be of riper age,[2] greater experience or grace,[3] eminent for + profession,[4] gifts,[5] place,[6] office,[7] guides to others,[8] and + whose example is likely to be followed by others.[9] 2. From the + parties offended:[10] if immediately against God,[11] his + attributes,[12] and worship;[13] against Christ, and his grace;[14] + the Holy Spirit,[15] his witness,[16] and workings;[17] against + superiors, men of eminency,[18] and such as we stand especially + related and engaged unto;[19] against any of the saints,[20] + particularly weak brethren,[21] the souls of them, or any other,[22] + and the common good of all or many.[23] 3. From the nature and quality + of the offense:[24] if it be against the express letter of the law,[25] + break many commandments, contain in it many sins:[26] if not only + conceived in the heart, but breaks forth in words and actions,[27] + scandalize others,[28] and admit of no reparation:[29] if against + means,[30] mercies,[31] judgments,[32] light of nature,[33] + conviction of conscience,[34] public or private admonition,[35] + censures of the church,[36] civil punishments;[37] and our prayers, + purposes, promises,[38] vows,[39] covenants,[40] and engagements to + God or men:[41] if done deliberately,[42] wilfully,[43] + presumptuously,[44] impudently,[45] boastingly,[46] + maliciously,[47] frequently,[48] obstinately,[49] with + delight,[50] continuance,[51] or relapsing after repentance.[52] + 4. From circumstances of time [53] and place:[54] if on the Lord’s + day,[55] or other times of divine worship;[56] or immediately + before[57] or after these,[58] or other helps to prevent or remedy + such miscarriages:[59] if in public, or in the presence of others, + who are thereby likely to be provoked or defiled.[60] + verses: + 1: + - Jer.2.8 + 2: + - Job.32.7,Job.32.9 + - Eccl.4.13 + 3: + - 1Kgs.11.4,1Kgs.11.9 + 4: + - 2Sam.12.14 + - 1Cor.5.1 + 5: + - Jas.4.17 + - Luke.12.47-Luke.12.48 + 6: + - Jer.5.4-Jer.5.5 + 7: + - 2Sam.12.7-2Sam.12.9 + - Ezek.8.11-Ezek.8.12 + 8: + - Rom.2.17-Rom.2.24 + 9: + - Gal.2.11-Gal.2.14 + 10: + - Matt.21.38-Matt.21.39 + 11: + - 1Sam.2.25 + - Acts.5.4 + - Ps.5.4 + 12: + - Rom.2.4 + 13: + - Mal.1.8 + - Mal.1.14 + 14: + - Heb.2.2-Heb.2.3 + - Heb.7.25 + 15: + - Heb.10.29 + - Matt.12.31-Matt.12.32 + 16: + - Eph.4.30 + 17: + - Heb.6.4-Heb.6.6 + 18: + - Jude.1.8 + - Num.12.8-Num.12.9 + - Isa.3.5 + 19: + - Prov.30.17 + - 2Cor.12.15 + - Ps.55.12-Ps.55.15 + 20: + - Zeph.2.8,Zeph.2.10-Zeph.2.11 + - Matt.18.6 + - Rev.17.6 + 21: + - 1Cor.8.11-1Cor.8.12 + - Rom.14.13,Rom.14.15,Rom.14.21 + 22: + - Ezek.13.19 + - 1Cor.8.12 + - Rev.18.12-Rev.18.13 + - Matt.23.15 + 23: + - 1Thess.2.15-1Thess.2.16 + - Josh.22.20 + 24: + - Prov.6.30-Prov.6.33 + 25: + - Ezra.9.10-Ezra.9.12 + - 1Kgs.11.9-1Kgs.11.10 + 26: + - Col.3.5 + - 1Tim.6.10 + - Prov.5.8-Prov.5.12 + - Prov.6.32-Prov.6.33 + - Josh.7.21 + 27: + - Jas.1.14-Jas.1.15 + - Matt.5.22 + - Mic.2.1 + 28: + - Matt.18.7 + - Rom.2.23-Rom.2.24 + 29: + - Deut.22.22,Deut.22.28-Deut.22.29 + - Prov.6.32-Prov.6.35 + 30: + - Matt.11.21-Matt.11.24 + - John.15.22 + 31: + - Isa.1.3 + - Deut.32.6 + 32: + - Amos.4.8-Amos.4.11 + - Jer.5.3 + 33: + - Rom.1.26-Rom.1.27 + 34: + - Rom.1.32 + - Dan.5.22 + - Titus.3.10-Titus.3.11 + 35: + - Prov.29.1 + 36: + - Titus.3.10 + 37: + - Prov.27.22 + - Prov.23.35 + 38: + - Ps.78.34-Ps.78.37 + - Jer.13.5-Jer.13.6,Jer.13.20-Jer.13.21 + 39: + - Eccl.5.4-Eccl.5.6 + - Prov.20.25 + 40: + - Lev.26.25 + 41: + - Prov.2.17 + - Ezek.7.18-Ezek.7.19 + 42: + - Ps.36.4 + 43: + - Jer.6.16 + 44: + - Num.15.30 + - Exod.21.14 + 45: + - Jer.3.3 + - Prov.7.13 + 46: + - Ps.52.1 + 47: + - 3John.1.10 + 48: + - Num.14.22 + 49: + - Zech.7.11-Zech.7.12 + 50: + - Prov.2.14 + 51: + - Isa.57.17 + 52: + - Jer.34.8-Jer.34.11 + - 2Pet.2.20-2Pet.2.22 + 53: + - 2Kgs.5.26 + 54: + - Jer.7.10 + - Isa.26.10 + 55: + - Ezek.23.37-Ezek.23.39 + 56: + - Isa.58.3-Isa.58.5 + - Num.25.6-Num.25.7 + 57: + - 1Cor.11.20-1Cor.11.21 + 58: + - Jer.7.8-Jer.7.10 + - Prov.7.14-Prov.7.15 + - John.13.27,John.13.30 + 59: + - Ezra.9.13-Ezra.9.14 + 60: + - 2Sam.16.22 + - 1Sam.2.22-1Sam.2.24 + - question: >- + What doth every sin deserve at the hands of God? + number: 152 + answer: >- + Every sin, even the least, being against the sovereignty,[1] + goodness,[2] and holiness of God,[3] and against his righteous law,[4] + deserveth his wrath and curse,[5] both in this life,[6] and that which + is to come;[7] and cannot be expiated but by the blood of Christ.[8] + verses: + 1: + - Jas.2.10-Jas.2.11 + 2: + - Exod.20.1-Exod.20.2 + 3: + - Hab.1.13 + - Lev.10.3 + - Lev.11.44-Lev.11.45 + 4: + - 1John.3.4 + - Rom.7.12 + 5: + - Eph.5.6 + - Gal.3.10 + 6: + - Lam.3.39 + - Deut.28.15-Deut.28.18 + 7: + - Matt.25.41 + 8: + - Heb.9.22 + - 1Pet.1.18-1Pet.1.19 + - question: >- + What doth God require of us, that we may escape his wrath and curse + due to us by reason of the transgression of the law? + number: 153 + answer: >- + That we may escape the wrath and curse of God due to us by reason of + the transgression of the law, he requireth of us repentance toward + God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ,[1] and the diligent use + of the outward means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of + his mediation.[2] + verses: + 1: + - Acts.20.21 + - Matt.3.7-Matt.3.8 + - Luke.13.3,Luke.13.5 + - Acts.16.30-Acts.16.31 + - John.3.16,John.3.18 + 2: + - Prov.2.1-Prov.2.5 + - Prov.8.33-Prov.8.36 + - question: >- + What are the outward means whereby Christ communicates to us the + benefits of his mediation? + number: 154 + answer: >- + The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicates to his + church the benefits of his mediation, are all his ordinances; + especially the word, sacraments, and prayer; all which are made + effectual to the elect for their salvation.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.28.19-Matt.28.20 + - Acts.2.42,Acts.2.46-Acts.2.47 + - question: >- + How is the word made effectual to salvation? + number: 155 + answer: >- + The Spirit of God maketh the reading, but especially the preaching of + the word, an effectual means of enlightening,[1] convincing, and + humbling sinners;[2] of driving them out of themselves, and drawing + them unto Christ;[3] of conforming them to his image,[4] and subduing + them to his will;[5] of strengthening them against temptations and + corruptions;[6] of building them up in grace,[7] and establishing + their hearts in holiness and comfort through faith unto salvation.[8] + verses: + 1: + - Neh.8.8 + - Acts.26.18 + - Ps.19.8 + 2: + - 1Cor.14.24-1Cor.14.25 + - 2Chr.34.18-2Chr.34.19,2Chr.34.26-2Chr.34.28 + 3: + - Acts.2.37,Acts.2.41 + - Acts.8.27-Acts.8.30,Acts.8.35-Acts.8.38 + 4: + - 2Cor.3.18 + 5: + - 2Cor.10.4-2Cor.10.6 + - Rom.6.17 + 6: + - Matt.4.4,Matt.4.7,Matt.4.10 + - Eph.6.16-Eph.6.17 + - Ps.19.11 + 7: + - Acts.20.32 + - 2Tim.3.15-2Tim.3.17 + 8: + - Rom.16.25 + - 1Thess.3.2,1Thess.3.10-1Thess.3.11,1Thess.3.13 + - Rom.15.4 + - Rom.10.13-Rom.10.17 + - Rom.1.16 + - question: >- + Is the word of God to be read by all? + number: 156 + answer: >- + Although all are not to be permitted to read the word publicly to the + congregation,[1] yet all sorts of people are bound to read it apart by + themselves,[2] and with their families:[3] to which end, the holy + scriptures are to be translated out of the original into vulgar + languages.[4] + verses: + 1: + - Deut.31.9,Deut.31.11-Deut.31.13 + - Neh.8.2-Neh.8.3 + - Neh.9.3-Neh.9.5 + 2: + - Deut.17.19 + - Rev.1.3 + - Isa.34.16 + 3: + - Deut.6.6-Deut.6.9 + - Gen.18.17 + - Ps.78.5-Ps.78.7 + 4: + - >- + 1Cor.14.6,1Cor.14.9,1Cor.14.11-1Cor.14.12,1Cor.14.15-1Cor.14.16,1Cor.14.24,1Cor.14.27-1Cor.14.28 + - question: >- + How is the word of God to be read? + number: 157 + answer: >- + The holy scriptures are to be read with an high and reverent esteem of + them;[1] with a firm persuasion that they are the very word of God,[2] + and that he only can enable us to understand them;[3] with desire to + know, believe, and obey the will of God revealed in them;[4] with + diligence,[5] and attention to the matter and scope of them;[6] with + meditation,[7] application,[8] self-denial,[9] and prayer.[10] + verses: + 1: + - Ps.19.10 + - Neh.8.3-Neh.8.6,Neh.8.10 + - Exod.24.7 + - 2Chr.34.27 + - Isa.66.2 + 2: + - 2Pet.1.19-2Pet.1.21 + 3: + - Luke.24.45 + - 2Cor.3.13-2Cor.3.16 + 4: + - Deut.17.10,Deut.17.20 + 5: + - Acts.17.11 + 6: + - Acts.8.30,Acts.8.34 + - Luke.10.26-Luke.10.28 + 7: + - Ps.1.2 + - Ps.119.97 + 8: + - 2Chr.34.21 + 9: + - Prov.3.5 + - Deut.33.3 + 10: + - Prov.2.1-Prov.2.6 + - Ps.119.18 + - Neh.7.6,Neh.7.8 + - question: >- + By whom is the word of God to be preached? + number: 158 + answer: >- + The word of God is to be preached only by such as are sufficiently + gifted,[1] and also duly approved and called to that office.[2] + verses: + 1: + - 1Tim.3.2,1Tim.3.6 + - Eph.4.8-Eph.4.11 + - Hos.4.6 + - Mal.2.7 + - 2Cor.3.6 + 2: + - Jer.14.15 + - Rom.10.15 + - Heb.5.4 + - 1Cor.12.28-1Cor.12.29 + - 1Tim.3.10 + - 1Tim.4.14 + - 1Tim.5.22 + - question: >- + How is the word of God to be preached by those that are called + thereunto? + number: 159 + answer: >- + They that are called to labor in the ministry of the word, are to + preach sound doctrine,[1] diligently,[2] in season and out of + season;[3] plainly,[4] not in the enticing words of man's wisdom, but + in demonstration of the Spirit, and of power;[5] faithfully,[6] making + known the whole counsel of God;[7] wisely,[8] applying themselves to + the necessities and capacities of the hearers;[9] zealously,[10] with + fervent love to God [11] and the souls of his people;[12] + sincerely,[13] aiming at his glory,[14] and their conversion,[15] + edification,[16] and salvation.[17] + verses: + 1: + - Titus.2.1,Titus.2.8 + 2: + - Acts.18.25 + 3: + - 2Tim.4.2 + 4: + - 1Cor.14.19 + 5: + - 1Cor.2.4 + 6: + - Jer.23.28 + - 1Cor.4.1-1Cor.4.2 + 7: + - Acts.20.27 + 8: + - Col.1.28 + - 2Tim.2.15 + 9: + - 1Cor.3.2 + - Heb.5.12-Heb.5.14 + - Luke.12.42 + 10: + - Acts.18.25 + 11: + - 2Cor.5.13-2Cor.5.14 + - Phil.1.15-Phil.1.17 + 12: + - Col.4.12 + - 2Cor.12.15 + 13: + - 2Cor.2.17 + - 2Cor.4.2 + 14: + - 1Thess.2.4-1Thess.2.6 + - John.7.18 + 15: + - 1Cor.9.19-1Cor.9.22 + 16: + - 2Cor.12.19 + - Eph.4.12 + 17: + - 1Tim.4.16 + - Acts.26.16-Acts.26.18 + - question: >- + What is required of those that hear the word preached? + number: 160 + answer: >- + It is required of those that hear the word preached, that they attend + upon it with diligence,[1] preparation,[2] and prayer;[3] examine: + What they hear by the scriptures;[4] receive the truth with faith,[5] + love,[6] meekness,[7] and readiness of mind,[8] as the word of God;[9] + meditate,[10] and confer of it;[11] hide it in their hearts,[12] and + bring forth the fruit of it in their lives.[13] + verses: + 1: + - Prov.8.34 + 2: + - 1Pet.2.1-1Pet.2.2 + 3: + - Ps.119.18 + - Eph.6.18-Eph.6.19 + 4: + - Acts.17.11 + 5: + - Heb.4.2 + 6: + - 2Thess.2.10 + 7: + - Jas.1.21 + 8: + - Acts.17.11 + 9: + - 1Thess.2.13 + 10: + - Luke.9.44 + - Heb.2.1 + 11: + - Luke.24.14 + - Deut.6.6-Deut.6.7 + 12: + - Prov.2.1 + - Ps.119.11 + 13: + - Luke.8.15 + - Jas.1.25 + - question: >- + How do the sacraments become effectual means of salvation? + number: 161 + answer: >- + The sacraments become effectual means of salvation, not by any power + in themselves, or any virtue derived from the piety or intention of + him by whom they are administered, but only by the working of the Holy + Ghost, and the blessing of Christ, by whom they are instituted.[1] + verses: + 1: + - 1Pet.3.21 + - Acts.8.13,Acts.8.23 + - 1Cor.3.6-1Cor.3.7 + - 1Cor.12.13 + - question: >- + What is a sacrament? + number: 162 + answer: >- + A sacrament is a holy ordinance instituted by Christ in his church,[1] + to signify, seal, and exhibit [2] unto those that are within the + covenant of grace,[3] the benefits of his mediation;[4] to strengthen + and increase their faith, and all other graces;[5] to oblige them to + obedience;[6] to testify and cherish their love and communion one with + another;[7] and to distinguish them from those that are without.[8] + verses: + 1: + - Gen.17.7,Gen.17.10 + - Exod.12 + - Matt.26.26-Matt.26.28 + 2: + - Rom.4.11 + - 1Cor.11.24-1Cor.11.25 + 3: + - Rom.15.8 + - Exod.12.48 + 4: + - Acts.2.38 + - 1Cor.10.16 + 5: + - Rom.4.11 + - Gal.3.27 + 6: + - Rom.6.3-Rom.6.4 + - 1Cor.10.21 + 7: + - Eph.4.2-Eph.4.5 + - 1Cor.12.13 + 8: + - Eph.2.11-Eph.2.12 + - Gen.34.14 + - question: >- + What are the parts of a sacrament? + number: 163 + answer: >- + The parts of a sacrament are two; the one an outward and sensible + sign, used according to Christ's own appointment; the other an inward + and spiritual grace thereby signified.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.3.11 + - 1Pet.3.21 + - Rom.2.28-Rom.2.29 + - question: >- + How many sacraments hath Christ instituted in his church under the New + Testament? + number: 164 + answer: >- + Under the New Testament Christ hath instituted in his church only two + sacraments, Baptism and the Lord's supper.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.28.19 + - 1Cor.11.20,1Cor.11.23 + - Matt.26.26-Matt.26.28 + - question: >- + What is Baptism? + number: 165 + answer: >- + Baptism is a sacrament of the New Testament, wherein Christ hath + ordained the washing with water in the name of the Father, and of the + Son, and of the Holy Ghost,[1] to be a sign and seal of ingrafting + into himself,[2] of remission of sins by his blood,[3] and + regeneration by his Spirit;[4] of adoption,[5] and resurrection unto + everlasting life;[6] and whereby the parties baptized are solemnly + admitted into the visible church,[7] and enter into an open and + professed engagement to be wholly and only the Lord's.[8] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.28.19 + 2: + - Gal.3.27 + 3: + - Mark.1.4 + - Rev.1.5 + 4: + - Titus.3.5 + - Eph.5.26 + 5: + - Gal.3.26-Gal.3.27 + 6: + - 1Cor.15.29 + - Rom.6.5 + 7: + - 1Cor.12.13 + 8: + - Rom.6.4 + - question: >- + Unto whom is Baptism to be administered? + number: 166 + answer: >- + Baptism is not to be administered to any that are out of the visible + church, and so strangers from the covenant of promise, till they + profess their faith in Christ, and obedience to him,[1] but infants + descending from parents, either both, or but one of them, professing + faith in Christ, and obedience to him, are in that respect within the + covenant, and to be baptized.[2] + verses: + 1: + - Acts.8.36-Acts.8.37 + - Acts.2.38 + 2: + - Gen.17.7,Gen.17.9 + - Gal.3.9,Gal.3.14 + - Col.2.11-Col.2.12 + - Acts.2.38-Acts.2.39 + - Rom.4.11-Rom.4.12 + - 1Cor.7.14 + - Matt.28.19 + - Luke.18.15-Luke.18.16 + - Rom.11.16 + - question: >- + How is our Baptism to be improved by us? + number: 167 + answer: >- + The needful but much neglected duty of improving our Baptism, is to be + performed by us all our life long, especially in the time of + temptation, and when we are present at the administration of it to + others;[1] by serious and thankful consideration of the nature of it, + and of the ends for which Christ instituted it, the privileges and + benefits conferred and sealed thereby, and our solemn vow made + therein;[2] by being humbled for our sinful defilement, our falling + short of, and walking contrary to, the grace of baptism, and our + engagements;[3] by growing up to assurance of pardon of sin, and of + all other blessings sealed to us in that sacrament;[4] by drawing + strength from the death and resurrection of Christ, into whom we are + baptized, for the mortifying of sin, and quickening of grace;[5] and + by endeavoring to live by faith,[6] to have our conversation in + holiness and righteousness,[7] as those that have therein given up + their names to Christ;[8] and to walk in brotherly love, as being + baptized by the same Spirit into one body.[9] + verses: + 1: + - Col.2.11-Col.2.12 + - Rom.6.4,Rom.6.6,Rom.6.11 + 2: + - Rom.6.3-Rom.6.5 + 3: + - 1Cor.1.11-1Cor.1.13 + - Rom.6.2-Rom.6.3 + 4: + - Rom.4.11-Rom.4.12 + - 1Pet.3.21 + 5: + - Rom.6.3-Rom.6.5 + 6: + - Gal.3.26-Gal.3.27 + 7: + - Rom.6.22 + 8: + - Acts.2.38 + 9: + - 1Cor.12.13,1Cor.12.25 + - question: >- + What is the Lord's supper? + number: 168 + answer: >- + The Lord's supper is a sacrament of the New Testament,[1] wherein, by + giving and receiving bread and wine according to the appointment of + Jesus Christ, his death is showed forth; and they that worthily + communicate feed upon his body and blood, to their spiritual + nourishment and growth in grace;[2] have their union and communion + with him confirmed;[3] testify and renew their thankfulness,[4] and + engagement to God,[5] and their mutual love and fellowship each with + other, as members of the same mystical body.[6] + verses: + 1: + - Luke.22.20 + 2: + - Matt.26.26-Matt.26.28 + - 1Cor.11.23-1Cor.11.26 + 3: + - 1Cor.10.16 + 4: + - 1Cor.11.24 + 5: + - 1Cor.10.14-1Cor.10.16,1Cor.10.21 + 6: + - 1Cor.10.17 + - question: >- + How hath Christ appointed bread and wine to be given and received in + the sacrament of the Lord's supper? + number: 169 + answer: >- + Christ hath appointed the ministers of his word, in the administration + of this sacrament of the Lord's Supper, to set apart the bread and + wine from common use, by the word of institution, thanksgiving, and + prayer; to take and break the bread, and to give both the bread and + the wine to the communicants: who are, by the same appointment, to + take and eat the bread, and to drink the wine, in thankful remembrance + that the body of Christ was broken and given, and his blood shed, for + them.[1] + verses: + 1: + - 1Cor.11.23-1Cor.11.24 + - Matt.26.26-Matt.26.28 + - Mark.14.22-Mark.14.24 + - Luke.22.19-Luke.22.20 + - question: >- + How do they that worthily communicate in the Lord's supper feed upon + the body and blood of Christ therein? + number: 170 + answer: >- + As the body and blood of Christ are not corporally or carnally present + in, with, or under the bread and wine in the Lord's supper,[1] and yet + are spiritually present to the faith of the receiver, no less truly + and really than the elements themselves are to their outward + senses;[2] so they that worthily communicate in the sacrament of the + Lord's supper, do therein feed upon the body and blood of Christ, not + after a corporal and carnal, but in a spiritual manner; yet truly and + really,[3] while by faith they receive and apply unto themselves + Christ crucified, and all the benefits of his death.[4] + verses: + 1: + - Acts.3.21 + 2: + - Matt.26.26,Matt.26.28 + 3: + - 1Cor.11.24-1Cor.11.29 + 4: + - 1Cor.10.16 + - question: >- + How are they that receive the sacrament of the Lord's supper to + prepare themselves before they come unto it? + number: 171 + answer: >- + They that receive the sacrament of the Lord's supper are, before they + come, to prepare themselves thereunto, by examining themselves [1] of + their being in Christ,[2] of their sins and wants;[3] of the truth and + measure of their knowledge,[4] faith,[5] repentance;[6] love to God + and the brethren,[7] charity to all men,[8] forgiving those that have + done them wrong;[9] of their desires after Christ,[10] and of their + new obedience;[11] and by renewing the exercise of these graces,[12] + by serious meditation,[13] and fervent prayer.[14] + verses: + 1: + - 1Cor.11.28 + 2: + - 2Cor.13.5 + 3: + - 1Cor.5.7 + - Exod.12.15 + 4: + - 1Cor.11.29 + 5: + - 1Cor.13.5 + 6: + - Zech.12.10 + - 1Cor.11.31 + 7: + - 1Cor.10.16-1Cor.10.17 + - Acts.2.46-Acts.2.47 + 8: + - 1Cor.5.8 + - 1Cor.11.18,1Cor.11.20 + 9: + - Matt.5.23-Matt.5.24 + 10: + - Isa.55.1 + - John.7.37 + 11: + - 1Cor.5.7-1Cor.5.8 + 12: + - 1Cor.11.25-1Cor.11.26,1Cor.11.28 + - Heb.10.21-Heb.10.22 + - Heb.10.24 + - Ps.26.6 + 13: + - 1Cor.11.24-1Cor.11.25 + 14: + - 2Chr.30.18-2Chr.30.19 + - Matt.26.26 + - question: >- + May one who doubteth of his being in Christ, or of his due + preparation, come to the Lord's supper? + number: 172 + answer: >- + One who doubteth of his being in Christ, or of his due preparation to + the sacrament of the Lord's supper, may have true interest in Christ, + though he be not yet assured thereof;[1] and in God's account hath it, + if he be duly affected with the apprehension of the want of it,[2] and + unfeignedly desires to be found in Christ,[3] and to depart from + iniquity:[4] in which case (because promises are made, and this + sacrament is appointed, for the relief even of weak and doubting + Christians)[5] he is to bewail his unbelief,[6] and labor to have his + doubts resolved;[7] and, so doing, he may and ought to come to the + Lord's supper, that he may be further strengthened.[8] + verses: + 1: + - Isa.50.10 + - 1John.5.13 + - Ps.88 + - Ps.77.1-Ps.77.4,Ps.77.7-Ps.77.10 + - Jonah.2.4 + 2: + - Isa.54.7-Isa.54.10 + - Matt.5.3-Matt.5.4 + - Ps.31.22 + - Ps.73.13,Ps.73.22-Ps.73.23 + 3: + - Phil.3.8-Phil.3.9 + - Ps.42.1-Ps.42.2,Ps.42.5,Ps.42.11 + 4: + - 2Tim.2.19 + - Isa.50.10 + - Ps.66.18-Ps.66.20 + 5: + - Isa.40.11,Isa.40.29,Isa.40.31 + - Matt.11.28 + - Matt.12.20 + - Matt.26.28 + 6: + - Mark.9.24 + 7: + - Acts.2.37 + - Acts.16.30 + 8: + - Rom.4.11 + - 1Cor.11.28 + - question: >- + May any who profess the faith, and desire to come to the Lord's + supper, be kept from it? + number: 173 + answer: >- + Such as are found to be ignorant or scandalous, notwithstanding their + profession of the faith, and desire to come to the Lord's supper, may + and ought to be kept from that sacrament, by the power which Christ + hath left in his church,[1] until they receive instruction, and + manifest their reformation.[2] + verses: + 1: + - 1Cor.11.27-1Cor.11.34 + - Matt.7.6 + - 1Cor.5 + - Jude.1.23 + - 1Tim.5.22 + 2: + - 2Cor.2.7 + - question: >- + What is required of them that receive the sacrament of the Lord's + supper in the time of the administration of it? + number: 174 + answer: >- + It is required of them that receive the sacrament of the Lord's + supper, that, during the time of the administration of it, with all + holy reverence and attention they wait upon God in that ordinance,[1] + diligently observe the sacramental elements and actions,[2] heedfully + discern the Lord's body,[3] and affectionately meditate on his death + and sufferings,[4] and thereby stir up themselves to a vigorous + exercise of their graces;[5] in judging themselves,[6] and sorrowing + for sin;[7] in earnest hungering and thirsting after Christ,[8] + feeding on him by faith,[9] receiving of his fulness,[10] trusting in + his merits,[11] rejoicing in his love,[12] giving thanks for his + grace;[13] in renewing of their covenant with God, and love to all the + saints.[14] + verses: + 1: + - Lev.10.3 + - Heb.12.28 + - Ps.5.7 + - 1Cor.11.17,1Cor.11.26-1Cor.11.27 + 2: + - Exod.24.8 + - Matt.26.28 + 3: + - 1Cor.11.29 + 4: + - Luke.22.19 + 5: + - 1Cor.11.26 + - 1Cor.10.3-1Cor.10.5,1Cor.10.11,1Cor.10.14 + 6: + - 1Cor.11.31 + 7: + - Zech.12.10 + 8: + - Rev.22.17 + 9: + - John.6.35 + 10: + - John.1.16 + 11: + - Phil.1.16 + 12: + - Ps.58.4-Ps.58.5 + - 2Chr.30.21 + 13: + - Ps.22.26 + 14: + - Jer.50.5 + - Ps.50.5 + 15: + - Acts.2.42 + - question: >- + What is the duty of Christians, after they have received the sacrament + of the Lord's supper? + number: 175 + answer: >- + The duty of Christians, after they have received the sacrament of the + Lord's supper, is seriously to consider how they have behaved + themselves therein, and with what success;[1] if they find quickening + and comfort, to bless God for it,[2] beg the continuance of it,[3] + watch against relapses,[4] fulfil their vows,[5] and encourage + themselves to a frequent attendance on that ordinance:[6] but if they + find no present benefit, more exactly to review their preparation to, + and carriage at, the sacrament;[7] in both which, if they can approve + themselves to God and their own consciences, they are to wait for the + fruit of it in due time:[8] but, if they see they have failed in + either, they are to be humbled,[9] and to attend upon it afterwards + with more care and diligence.[10] + verses: + 1: + - Ps.28.7 + - 1Cor.11.7,1Cor.11.30-1Cor.11.31 + 2: + - 2Chr.30.21-2Chr.30.23,2Chr.30.25-2Chr.30.26 + - Acts.2.42,Acts.2.46-Acts.2.47 + 3: + - Ps.36.10 + - Song.3.4 + - 1Chr.29.18 + 4: + - 1Cor.10.3-1Cor.10.5,1Cor.10.12 + 5: + - Ps.50.14 + 6: + - 1Cor.11.25-1Cor.11.26 + - Acts.2.42,Acts.2.46 + 7: + - Song.5.1-Song.5.6 + - Eccl.5.1-Eccl.5.6 + 8: + - Ps.123.1-Ps.123.2 + - Ps.42.5,Ps.42.8 + - Ps.43.3-Ps.43.5 + 9: + - 2Chr.30.18-2Chr.30.19 + 10: + - 2Cor.7.11 + - 1Chr.15.12-1Chr.15.14 + - question: >- + Wherein do the sacraments of baptism and the Lord's supper agree? + number: 176 + answer: >- + The sacraments of baptism and the Lord's supper agree, in that the + author of both is God;[1] the spiritual part of both is Christ and his + benefits;[2] both are seals of the same covenant,[3] are to be + dispensed by ministers of the gospel, and by none other;[4] and to be + continued in the church of Christ until his second coming.[5] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.28.19 + - 1Cor.11.23 + 2: + - Rom.6.3-Rom.6.4 + - 1Cor.10.16 + 3: + - Rom.4.11 + - Col.2.12 + - Matt.26.27-Matt.26.28 + 4: + - John.1.33 + - Matt.28.19 + - 1Cor.11.23 + - 1Cor.4.1 + - Heb.5.4 + 5: + - Matt.28.19-Matt.28.20 + - 1Cor.11.26 + - question: >- + Wherein do the sacraments of baptism and the Lord's supper differ? + number: 177 + answer: >- + The sacraments of baptism and the Lord's supper differ, in that + baptism is to be administered but once, with water, to be a sign and + seal of our regeneration and ingrafting into Christ,[1] and that even + to infants;[2] whereas the Lord's supper is to be administered often, + in the elements of bread and wine, to represent and exhibit Christ as + spiritual nourishment to the soul,[3] and to confirm our continuance + and growth in him,[4] and that only to such as are of years and + ability to examine themselves.[5] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.3.11 + - Titus.3.5 + - Gal.3.27 + 2: + - Gen.17.7,Gen.17.9 + - Acts.2.38-Acts.2.39 + - 1Cor.7.14 + 3: + - 1Cor.11.23-1Cor.11.26 + 4: + - 1Cor.10.16 + 5: + - 1Cor.11.28-1Cor.11.29 + - question: >- + What is prayer? + number: 178 + answer: >- + Prayer is an offering up of our desires unto God,[1] in the name of + Christ,[2] by the help of his Spirit;[3] with confession of our + sins,[4] and thankful acknowledgment of his mercies.[5] + verses: + 1: + - Ps.62.8 + 2: + - John.16.23 + 3: + - Rom.8.26 + 4: + - Ps.32.5-Ps.32.6 + - Dan.9.4 + 5: + - Phil.4.6 + - question: >- + Are we to pray unto God only? + number: 179 + answer: >- + God only being able to search the hearts,[1] hear the requests,[2] + pardon the sins,[3] and fulfil the desires of all;[4] and only to be + believed in,[5] and worshiped with religious worship;[6] prayer, which + is a special part thereof,[7] is to be made by all to him alone,[8] + and to none other.[9] + verses: + 1: + - 1Kgs.8.39 + - Acts.1.24 + - Rom.8.27 + 2: + - Ps.65.2 + 3: + - Mic.7.18 + 4: + - Ps.145.18 + 5: + - Rom.10.14 + 6: + - Matt.4.10 + 7: + - 1Cor.1.2 + 8: + - Ps.50.15 + 9: + - Rom.10.14 + - question: >- + What is it to pray in the name of Christ? + number: 180 + answer: >- + To pray in the name of Christ is, in obedience to his command, and in + confidence on his promises, to ask mercy for his sake;[1] not by bare + mentioning of his name,[2] but by drawing our encouragement to pray, + and our boldness, strength, and hope of acceptance in prayer, from + Christ and his mediation.[3] + verses: + 1: + - John.14.13-John.14.14 + - John.16.24 + - Dan.9.17 + 2: + - Matt.7.21 + 3: + - Heb.4.14-Heb.4.16 + - 1John.5.13-1John.5.15 + - question: >- + Why are we to pray in the name of Christ? + number: 181 + answer: >- + The sinfulness of man, and his distance from God by reason thereof, + being so great, as that we can have no access into his presence + without a mediator;[1] and there being none in heaven or earth + appointed to, or fit for, that glorious work but Christ alone,[2] we + are to pray in no other name but his only.[3] + verses: + 1: + - John.14.6 + - Isa.59.2 + - Eph.3.12 + 2: + - John.6.27 + - Heb.7.25-Heb.7.27 + - 1Tim.2.5 + 3: + - Col.3.17 + - Heb.13.15 + - question: >- + How doth the Spirit help us to pray? + number: 182 + answer: >- + We not knowing: What to pray for as we ought, the Spirit helps our + infirmities, by enabling us to understand both for whom, and: What, + and: How prayer is to be made; and by working and quickening in our + hearts (although not in all persons, nor at all times, in the same + measure) those apprehensions, affections, and graces which are + requisite for the right performance of that duty.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Rom.8.26-Rom.8.27 + - Ps.10.17 + - Zech.12.10 + - question: >- + For whom are we to pray? + number: 183 + answer: >- + We are to pray for the whole church of Christ upon earth;[1] for + magistrates,[2] and ministers;[3] for ourselves,[4] our brethren,[5] + yea, our enemies;[6] and for all sorts of men living,[7] or that shall + live hereafter;[8] but not for the dead,[9] nor for those that are + known to have sinned the sin unto death.[10] + verses: + 1: + - Eph.6.18 + - Ps.28.9 + 2: + - 1Tim.2.1-1Tim.2.2 + 3: + - Col.4.3 + 4: + - Gen.32.11 + 5: + - Jas.5.16 + 6: + - Matt.5.44 + 7: + - 1Tim.2.1-1Tim.2.2 + 8: + - John.17.20 + - 2Sam.7.29 + 9: + - 2Sam.12.21-2Sam.12.23 + 10: + - 1John.5.16 + - question: >- + For what things are we to pray? + number: 184 + answer: >- + We are to pray for all things tending to the glory of God,[1] the + welfare of the church,[2] our own [3] or others good;[4] but not for + anything that is unlawful.[5] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.6.9 + 2: + - Ps.51.18 + - Ps.122.6 + 3: + - Matt.7.11 + 4: + - Ps.125.4 + 5: + - 1John.5.14 + - question: >- + How are we to pray? + number: 185 + answer: >- + We are to pray with an awful apprehension of the majesty of God,[1] + and deep sense of our own unworthiness,[2] necessities,[3] and + sins;[4] with penitent,[5] thankful,[6] and enlarged hearts;[7] with + understanding,[8] faith,[9] sincerity,[10] fervency,[11] love,[12] and + perseverance,[13] waiting upon him,[14] with humble submission to his + will.[15] + verses: + 1: + - Eccl.5.1 + 2: + - Gen.18.27 + - Gen.32.10 + 3: + - Luke.15.17-Luke.15.19 + 4: + - Luke.18.13-Luke.18.14 + 5: + - Ps.51.17 + 6: + - Phil.4.6 + 7: + - 1Sam.1.15 + - 1Sam.2.1 + 8: + - 1Cor.14.15 + 9: + - Mark.11.24 + - Jas.1.6 + 10: + - Ps.145.18 + - Ps.17.1 + 11: + - Jas.5.16 + 12: + - 1Tim.2.8 + 13: + - Eph.6.18 + 14: + - Mic.7.7 + 15: + - Matt.26.39 + - question: >- + What rule hath God given for our direction in the duty of prayer? + number: 186 + answer: >- + The whole word of God is of use to direct us in the duty of prayer;[1] + but the special rule of direction is that form of prayer which our + Savior Christ taught his disciples, commonly called The Lord's + prayer.[2] + verses: + 1: + - 1John.5.14 + 2: + - Matt.6.9-Matt.6.13 + - Luke.11.2-Luke.11.4 + - question: >- + How is the Lord's prayer to be used? + number: 187 + answer: >- + The Lord's prayer is not only for direction, as a pattern, according + to which we are to make other prayers; but may also be used as a + prayer, so that it be done with understanding, faith, reverence, and + other graces necessary to the right performance of the duty of + prayer.[1] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.6.9 + - Luke.11.2 + - question: >- + Of how many parts doth the Lord's prayer consist? + number: 188 + answer: >- + The Lord's prayer consists of three parts; a preface, petitions, and a + conclusion. + verses: {} + - question: >- + What doth the preface of the Lord's prayer teach us? + number: 189 + answer: >- + The preface of the Lord's prayer (contained in these words, Our Father + which art in heaven,)[1] teacheth us, when we pray, to draw near to + God with confidence of his fatherly goodness, and our interest + therein;[2] with reverence, and all other childlike dispositions,[3] + heavenly affections,[4] and due apprehensions of his sovereign power, + majesty, and gracious condescension:[5] as also, to pray with and for + others.[6] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.6.9 + 2: + - 2Cor.3.5 + 3: + - Ps.67.2-Ps.67.3 + 4: + - Ps.83.18 + 5: + - Ps.86.10-Ps.86.13,Ps.86.15 + 6: + - 2Thess.3.1 + - Ps.147.19-Ps.147.20 + - Ps.138.1-Ps.138.3 + - 2Cor.2.14-2Cor.2.15 + 7: + - Ps.145 + 8: + - Ps.103.1 + - Ps.19.14 + 9: + - Phil.1.9,Phil.1.11 + 10: + - Ps.67.1-Ps.67.4 + 11: + - Eph.1.17-Eph.1.18 + 12: + - Ps.97.7 + 13: + - Ps.74.18,Ps.74.22-Ps.74.23 + 14: + - 2Kgs.19.15-2Kgs.19.16 + 15: + - 2Chr.20.6,2Chr.20.10-2Chr.20.12 + - Ps.83 + - Ps.140.4,Ps.140.8 + - question: >- + What do we pray for in the first petition? + number: 190 + answer: >- + In the first petition (which is, Hallowed be thy name,)[1] + acknowledging the utter inability and indisposition that is in + ourselves and all men to honor God aright,[2] pray, that God would by + his grace enable and incline us and others to know, to acknowledge, + and highly to esteem him,[3] his titles,[4] attributes,[5] ordinances, + word,[6] works, and whatsoever he is pleased to make himself known + by;[7] and to glorify him in thought, word,[8] and deed:[9] that he + would prevent and remove atheism,[10] ignorance,[11] idolatry,[12] + profaneness,[13] and: whatsoever is dishonorable to him;[14] and, by + his overruling providence, direct and dispose of all things to his own + glory.[15] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.6.9 + 2: + - 2Cor.3.5 + 3: + - Ps.67.2-Ps.67.3 + 4: + - Ps.83.18 + 5: + - Ps.86.10-Ps.86.13,Ps.86.15 + 6: + - 2Thess.3.1 + - Ps.147.19-Ps.147.20 + - Ps.138.1-Ps.138.3 + - 2Cor.2.14-2Cor.2.15 + 7: + - Ps.145 + 8: + - Ps.103.1 + - Ps.19.14 + 9: + - Phil.1.9,Phil.1.11 + 10: + - Ps.67.1-Ps.67.4 + 11: + - Eph.1.17-Eph.1.18 + 12: + - Ps.97.7 + 13: + - Ps.74.18,Ps.74.22-Ps.74.23 + 14: + - 2Kgs.19.15-2Kgs.19.16 + 15: + - 2Chr.20.6,2Chr.20.10-2Chr.20.12 + - Ps.83 + - Ps.140.4,Ps.140.8 + - question: >- + What do we pray for in the second petition? + number: 191 + answer: >- + In the second petition (which is, Thy kingdom come,)[1] acknowledging + ourselves and all mankind to be by nature under the dominion of sin + and Satan,[2] we pray, that the kingdom of sin and Satan may be + destroyed,[3] the gospel propagated throughout the world,[4] the Jews + called,[5] the fulness of the Gentiles brought in;[6] the church + furnished with all gospel officers and ordinances,[7] purged from + corruption,[8] countenanced and maintained by the civil magistrate:[9] + that the ordinances of Christ may be purely dispensed, and made + effectual to the converting of those that are yet in their sins, and + the confirming, comforting, and building up of those that are already + converted:[10] that Christ would rule in our hearts here,[11] and + hasten the time of his second coming, and our reigning with him + forever:[12] and that he would be pleased so to exercise the kingdom + of his power in all the world, as may best conduce to these ends.[13] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.6.10 + 2: + - Eph.2.2-Eph.2.3 + 3: + - Ps.68.1,Ps.68.18 + - Rev.12.10-Rev.12.11 + 4: + - 2Thess.3.1 + 5: + - Rom.10.1 + 6: + - John.17.9,John.17.20 + - Rom.11.25-Rom.11.26 + - Ps.67 + 7: + - Matt.9.38 + - 2Thess.3.1 + 8: + - Mal.1.11 + - Zeph.3.9 + 9: + - 1Tim.2.1-1Tim.2.2 + 10: + - Acts.4.29-Acts.4.30 + - Eph.6.18-Eph.6.20 + - Rom.15.29-Rom.15.30,Rom.15.32 + - 2Thess.1.11 + - 2Thess.2.16-2Thess.2.17 + 11: + - Eph.3.14-Eph.3.20 + 12: + - Rev.22.20 + 13: + - Isa.64.1-Isa.64.2 + - Rev.4.8-Rev.4.11 + - question: >- + What do we pray for in the third petition? + number: 192 + answer: >- + In the third petition (which is, Thy will be done in earth, as it is + in heaven,)[1] acknowledging, that by nature we and all men are not + only utterly unable and unwilling to know and do the will of God,[2] + but prone to rebel against his word,[3] to repine and murmur against + his providence,[4] and wholly inclined to do the will of the flesh, + and of the devil:[5] we pray, that God would by his Spirit take away + from ourselves and others all blindness,[6] weakness,[7] + indisposedness,[8] and perverseness of heart;[9] and by his grace make + us able and willing to know, do, and submit to his will in all + things,[10] with the like humility,[11] cheerfulness,[12] + faithfulness,[13] diligence,[14] zeal,[15] sincerity,[16] and + constancy,[17] as the angels do in heaven.[18] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.6.10 + 2: + - Rom.7.18 + - Job.21.14 + - 1Cor.2.14 + 3: + - Rom.8.7 + 4: + - Exod.17.7 + - Num.14.2 + 5: + - Eph.2.2 + 6: + - Eph.1.17-Eph.1.18 + 7: + - Eph.3.16 + 8: + - Matt.26.40-Matt.26.41 + 9: + - Jer.31.18-Jer.31.19 + 10: + - Ps.119.1,Ps.119.8,Ps.119.35-Ps.119.36 + 11: + - Mic.6.8 + 12: + - Ps.100.2 + - Job.1.21 + - 2Sam.15.25-2Sam.15.26 + 13: + - Isa.38.3 + 14: + - Ps.119.4-Ps.119.5 + 15: + - Rom.12.11 + 16: + - Ps.119.80 + 17: + - Ps.119.112 + 18: + - Isa.6.2-Isa.6.3 + - Ps.103.20-Ps.103.21 + - Matt.18.10 + - question: >- + What do we pray for in the fourth petition? + number: 193 + answer: >- + In the fourth petition (which is, Give us this day our daily + bread,)[1] acknowledging, that in Adam, and by our own sin, we have + forfeited our right to all the outward blessings of this life, and + deserve to be wholly deprived of them by God, and to have them cursed + to us in the use of them;[2] and that neither they of themselves are + able to sustain us,[3] nor we to merit,[4] or by our own industry to + procure them;[5] but prone to desire,[6] get,[7] and use them + unlawfully:[8] we pray for ourselves and others, that both they and + we, waiting upon the providence of God from day to day in the use of + lawful means, may, of his free gift, and as to his fatherly wisdom + shall seem best, enjoy a competent portion of them;[9] and have the + same continued and blessed unto us in our holy and comfortable use of + them,[10] and contentment in them;[11] and be kept from all things + that are contrary to our temporal support and comfort.[12] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.6.11 + 2: + - Gen.2.17 + - Gen.3.17 + - Rom.8.20-Rom.8.22 + - Deut.28.15-Deut.28.17 + 3: + - Deut.8.3 + 4: + - Gen.32.10 + 5: + - Deut.8.17-Deut.8.18 + 6: + - Jer.6.13 + - Mark.7.21-Mark.7.22 + 7: + - Hos.12.7 + 8: + - Jas.4.3 + 9: + - Gen.43.12-Gen.43.14 + - Gen.28.20 + - Eph.4.28 + - 2Thess.3.11-2Thess.3.12 + - Phil.4.6 + 10: + - 1Tim.4.3-1Tim.4.5 + 11: + - 1Tim.6.6-1Tim.6.8 + 12: + - Prov.30.8-Prov.30.9 + - question: >- + What do we pray for in the fifth petition? + number: 194 + answer: >- + In the fifth petition (which is, Forgive us our debts, as we forgive + our debtors,)[1] acknowledging, that we and all others are guilty both + of original and actual sin, and thereby become debtors to the justice + of God; and that neither we, nor any other creature, can make the + least satisfaction for that debt:[2] we pray for ourselves and others, + that God of his free grace would, through the obedience and + satisfaction of Christ, apprehended and applied by faith, acquit us + both from the guilt and punishment of sin,[3] accept us in his + Beloved;[4] continue his favor and grace to us,[5] pardon our daily + failings,[6] and fill us with peace and joy, in giving us daily more + and more assurance of forgiveness;[7] which we are the rather + emboldened to ask, and encouraged to expect, when we have this + testimony in ourselves, that we from the heart forgive others their + offenses.[8] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.6.12 + 2: + - Rom.3.9-Rom.3.22 + - Matt.18.24-Matt.18.25 + - Ps.130.3-Ps.130.4 + 3: + - Rom.3.24-Rom.3.26 + - Heb.9.22 + 4: + - Eph.1.6-Eph.1.7 + 5: + - 2Pet.1.2 + 6: + - Hos.14.2 + - Jer.14.7 + 7: + - Rom.15.13 + - Ps.51.7-Ps.51.10,Ps.51.12 + 8: + - Luke.11.4 + - Matt.6.14-Matt.6.15 + - Matt.18.35 + - question: >- + What do we pray for in the sixth petition? + number: 195 + answer: >- + In the sixth petition (which is, And lead us not into temptation, but + deliver us from evil,)[1] acknowledging, that the most wise, + righteous, and gracious God, for divers holy and just ends, may so + order things, that we may be assaulted, foiled, and for a time led + captive by temptations;[2] that Satan,[3] the world,[4] and the flesh, + are ready powerfully to draw us aside, and ensnare us;[5] and that we, + even after the pardon of our sins, by reason of our corruption,[6] + weakness, and want of watchfulness,[7] are not only subject to be + tempted, and forward to expose ourselves unto temptations,[8] but also + of ourselves unable and unwilling to resist them, to recover out of + them, and to improve them;[9] and worthy to be left under the power of + them:[10] we pray, that God would so overrule the world and all in + it,[11] subdue the flesh,[12] and restrain Satan,[13] order all + things,[14] bestow and bless all means of grace,[15] and quicken us to + watchfulness in the use of them, that we and all his people may by his + providence be kept from being tempted to sin;[16] or, if tempted, that + by his Spirit we may be powerfully supported and enabled to stand in + the hour of temptation;[17] or when fallen, raised again and recovered + out of it,[18] and have a sanctified use and improvement thereof:[19] + that our sanctification and salvation may be perfected,[20] Satan + trodden under our feet,[21] and we fully freed from sin, temptation, + and all evil, forever.[22] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.6.13 + 2: + - 2Chr.32.31 + 3: + - 1Chr.21.1 + 4: + - Luke.21.34 + - Mark.4.19 + 5: + - Jas.1.14 + 6: + - Gal.5.17 + 7: + - Matt.26.41 + 8: + - Matt.26.69-Matt.26.72 + - Gal.2.11-Gal.2.14 + - 2Chr.18.3 + - 2Chr.19.2 + 9: + - Rom.7.23-Rom.7.24 + - 1Chr.21.1-1Chr.21.4 + - 2Chr.16.7-2Chr.16.10 + 10: + - Ps.81.11-Ps.81.12 + 11: + - John.17.15 + 12: + - Ps.51.10 + 13: + - 2Cor.12.7-2Cor.12.8 + 14: + - 1Cor.10.12-1Cor.10.13 + 15: + - Heb.13.20-Heb.13.21 + 16: + - Matt.26.41 + - Ps.19.13 + 17: + - Eph.3.14-Eph.3.17 + - 1Thess.3.13 + - Jude.1.24 + 18: + - Ps.51.12 + 19: + - 1Pet.5.8-1Pet.5.10 + 20: + - 2Cor.13.7,2Cor.13.9 + 21: + - Rom.16.20 + - Luke.22.31-Luke.22.32 + 22: + - John.17.15 + - 1Thess.5.23 + - question: >- + What doth the conclusion of the Lord's prayer teach us? + number: 196 + answer: >- + The conclusion of the Lord's prayer (which is, For thine is the + kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.),[1] teaches us + to enforce our petitions with arguments,[2] which are to be taken, not + from any worthiness in ourselves, or in any other creature, but from + God;[3] and with our prayers to join praises,[4] ascribing to God + alone eternal sovereignty, omnipotency, and glorious excellency;[5] in + regard whereof, as he is able and willing to help us,[6] so we by + faith are emboldened to plead with him that he would,[7] and quietly + to rely upon him, that he will fulfil our requests.[8] And, to testify + this our desire and assurance, we say, Amen.[9] + verses: + 1: + - Matt.6.13 + 2: + - Rom.15.30 + 3: + - Dan.9.4,Dan.9.7-Dan.9.9,Dan.9.16-Dan.9.19 + 4: + - Phil.4.6 + 5: + - 1Chr.29.10-1Chr.29.13 + 6: + - Eph.3.20-Eph.3.21 + - Luke.11.13 + 7: + - 2Chr.20.6,2Chr.20.11 + 8: + - 2Chr.14.11 + 9: + - 1Cor.14.16 + - Rev.22.20-Rev.22.21 +... diff --git a/data/westminster/wsc-pca.yaml b/data/westminster/wsc-pca.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..25a2425053ad9c8639fa1117d25dd5f304f3dd4d --- /dev/null +++ b/data/westminster/wsc-pca.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,1527 @@ +--- +name: Westminster Shorter Catechism (with PCA proof-texts) +publication_year: 1646 +type: catechism +recommended_reading: + - wsc +questions: + - question: What is the chief end of man? + number: 1 + answer: Man's chief end is to glorify God,[a] and to enjoy him for ever.[b] + verses: + a: + - Ps.86.9 + - Isa.60.21 + - Rom.11.36 + - 1Cor.6.20,1Cor.10.31 + - Rev.4.11 + b: + - Ps.16.5-Ps.16.11,Ps.144.15 + - Isa.12.2 + - Luke.2.10 + - Phil.4.4 + - Rev.21.3-Rev.21.4 + - question: What rule hath God given to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him? + number: 2 + answer: >- + The Word of God, which is contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, + [a] is the only rule to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him.[b] + verses: + a: + - Matt.19.4-Matt.19.5,Gen.2.24 + - Luke.24.27,Luke.24.44 + - 1Cor.2.13,1Cor.14.37 + - 2Pet.1.20-2Pet.1.21,2Pet.3.2,2Pet.3.15-2Pet.3.16 + b: + - Deut.4.2 + - Ps.19.7-Ps.19.11 + - Isa.8.20 + - John.15.11,John.20.30-John.20.31 + - Acts.17.11 + - 2Tim.3.15-2Tim.3.17 + - 1John.1.4 + - question: What do the Scriptures principally teach? + number: 3 + answer: >- + The Scriptures principally teach what man is to believe concerning God,[a] + and what duty God requires of man[b]. + verses: + a: + - Gen.1.1 + - John.5.39,John.20.31 + - Rom.10.17 + - 2Tim.3.15 + b: + - Deut.10.12-Deut.10.13 + - Josh.1.8 + - Ps.119.105 + - Mic.6.8 + - 2Tim.3.16-2Tim.3.17 + - question: What is God? + number: 4 + answer: >- + God is a Spirit[a], infinite[b], eternal[c], and unchangeable[d] in his + being[e], wisdom[f], power[g], holiness[h], justice[i], goodness[j], and + truth[k]. + verses: + a: + - Deut.4.15-Deut.4.19 + - Luke.24.39 + - John.1.18,John.4.24 + - Acts.17.29 + b: + - 1Kgs.8.27 + - Ps.139.7-Ps.139.10,Ps.145.3,Ps.147.5 + - Jer.23.24 + - Rom.11.33-Rom.11.36 + c: + - Deut.33.27 + - Ps.90.2,Ps.102.12,Ps.102.24-Ps.102.27 + - Rev.1.4,Rev.1.8 + d: + - Ps.33.11 + - Mal.3.6 + - Heb.1.12,Heb.6.17-Heb.6.18,Heb.13.8 + - Jas.1.17 + e: + - Exod.3.14 + - Ps.115.2-Ps.115.3 + - 1Tim.1.17,1Tim.6.15-1Tim.6.16 + f: + - Ps.104.24 + - Rom.11.33-Rom.11.34 + - Heb.4.13 + - 1John.3.20 + g: + - Gen.17.1 + - Ps.62.11 + - Jer.32.17 + - Matt.19.26 + - Rev.1.8 + h: + - Heb.1.13 + - 1Pet.1.15-1Pet.1.16 + - 1John.3.3,1John.3.5 + - Rev.15.4 + i: + - Gen.18.25 + - Exod.34.6-Exod.34.7 + - Deut.32.4 + - Ps.96.13 + - Rom.3.5,Rom.3.26 + j: + - Ps.103.5,Ps.107.8 + - Matt.19.17 + - Rom.2.4 + k: + - Exod.34.6 + - Deut.32.4 + - Ps.86.15,Ps.117.2 + - Heb.6.18 + - question: Are there more Gods than one? + number: 5 + answer: There is but one only[a], the living and true God[b]. + verses: + a: + - Deut.6.4 + - Isa.44.6,Isa.45.21-Isa.45.22 + - 1Cor.8.4-1Cor.8.6 + b: + - Jer.10.10 + - John.17.3 + - 1Thess.1.9 + - 1John.5.20 + - question: How many persons are there in the Godhead? + number: 6 + answer: >- + There are three persons in the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost + [a]; and these three are one God, the same in substance, equal in power and + glory.[b] + verses: + a: + - Matt.3.16-Matt.3.17,Matt.28.19 + - 2Cor.13.14 + - 1Pet.1.2 + b: + - Ps.45.6 + - John.1.1,John.17.5 + - Acts.5.3-Acts.5.4 + - Rom.9.5 + - Col.2.9 + - Jude.1.24-Jude.1.25 + - question: What are the decrees of God? + number: 7 + answer: >- + The decrees of God are, his eternal purpose, according to the counsel of his + will, whereby, for his own glory, he hath foreordained whatsoever comes to pass + [a]. + verses: + a: + - Ps.33.11 + - Isa.14.24 + - Acts.2.23 + - Eph.1.11-Eph.1.12 + - question: How doth God execute his decrees? + number: 8 + answer: God executeth his decrees in the works of creation and providence[a]. + verses: + a: + - Ps.148.8 + - Isa.40.26 + - Dan.4.35 + - Acts.4.24-Acts.4.28 + - Rev.4.11 + - question: What is the work of creation? + number: 9 + answer: >- + The work of creation is, God's making all things of nothing, by the word of + his power[a], in the space of six days, and all very good.[b] + verses: + a: + - Gen.1.1 + - Ps.33.6,Ps.33.9 + - Heb.11.3 + b: + - Gen.1.31 + - question: How did God create man? + number: 10 + answer: >- + God created man male and female, after his own image[a], in knowledge[b], + righteousness, and holiness[c], with dominion over the creatures[d]. + verses: + a: + - Gen.1.27 + b: + - Col.3.10 + c: + - Eph.4.24 + d: + - Gen.1.28 + - Ps.8 + - question: What are God's works of providence? + number: 11 + answer: >- + God's works of providence are, his most holy[a], wise[b], and powerful[c] + preserving[d] and governing[e] all his creatures, and all their actions[f]. + verses: + a: + - Ps.145.17 + b: + - Ps.104.24 + c: + - Heb.1.3 + d: + - Neh.9.6 + e: + - Eph.1.19-Eph.1.22 + f: + - Ps.36.6 + - Prov.16.33 + - Matt.10.30 + - question: >- + What special act of providence did God exercise toward man in the estate wherein + he was created? + number: 12 + answer: >- + When God had created man, he entered into a covenant of life with him, upon + condition of perfect obedience; forbidding him to eat of the tree of the knowledge + of good and evil, upon pain of death.[a] + verses: + a: + - Gen.2.16-Gen.2.17 + - Jas.2.10 + - question: Did our first parents continue in the estate wherein they were created? + number: 13 + answer: >- + Our first parents, being left to the freedom of their own will, fell from the + estate wherein they were created, by sinning against God[a]. + verses: + a: + - Gen.3.6-Gen.3.8,Gen.3.13 + - 2Cor.11.3 + - question: What is sin? + number: 14 + answer: Sin is any want of conformity unto, or transgression of, the law of God + [a]. + verses: + a: + - Lev.5.17 + - Jas.4.17 + - 1John.3.4 + - question: >- + What was the sin whereby our first parents fell from the estate wherein they + were created? + number: 15 + answer: >- + The sin whereby our first parents fell from the estate wherein they were created, + was their eating the forbidden fruit[a]. + verses: + a: + - Gen.3.6 + - question: Did all mankind fall in Adam's first transgression? + number: 16 + answer: >- + The covenant being made with Adam[a], not only for himself, but for his posterity; + all mankind, descending from him by ordinary generation, sinned in him, and + fell with him, in his first transgression[b]. + verses: + a: + - Gen.2.16-Gen.2.17 + - Jas.2.10 + b: + - Rom.5.12-Rom.5.21 + - 1Cor.15.22 + - question: Into what estate did the fall bring mankind? + number: 17 + answer: The fall brought mankind into an estate of sin and misery[a]. + verses: + a: + - Gen.3.16-Gen.3.19,Gen.3.23 + - Rom.3.16,Rom.5.12 + - Eph.2.1 + - question: Wherein consists the sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell? + number: 18 + answer: >- + The sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell, consists in the guilt of Adam's + first sin[a], the want of original righteousness[b], and the corruption of + his whole nature[c], which is commonly called original sin; together with all + actual transgressions which proceed from it[d]. + verses: + a: + - Rom.5.12,Rom.5.19 + b: + - Rom.3.10 + - Col.3.10 + - Eph.4.24 + c: + - Ps.51.5 + - John.3.6 + - Rom.3.18,Rom.8.7-Rom.8.8 + - Eph.2.3 + d: + - Gen.6.5 + - Ps.53.1-Ps.53.3 + - Matt.15.19 + - Rom.3.10-Rom.3.18,Rom.3.23 + - Gal.5.19-Gal.5.21 + - Jas.1.14-Jas.1.15 + - question: What is the misery of that estate whereinto man fell? + number: 19 + answer: >- + All mankind by their fall lost communion with God[a], are under his wrath[b] + and curse[c], and so made liable to all miseries in this life[d], to death + [e] itself, and to the pains of hell for ever[f]. + verses: + a: + - Gen.3.8,Gen.3.24 + - John.8.34,John.8.42,John.8.44 + - Eph.2.12,Eph.4.18 + b: + - John.3.36 + - Rom.1.18 + - Eph.2.3,Eph.5.6 + c: + - Gal.3.10 + - Rev.22.3 + d: + - Gen.3.16-Gen.3.19 + - Job.5.7 + - Eccl.2.22-Eccl.2.23 + - Rom.8.18-Rom.8.23 + e: + - Ezek.18.4 + - Rom.5.12,Rom.6.23 + f: + - Matt.25.41,Matt.25.46 + - 2Thess.1.9 + - Rev.14.9-Rev.14.11 + - question: Did God leave all mankind to perish in the estate of sin and misery? + number: 20 + answer: >- + God having, out of his mere good pleasure, from all eternity, elected some to + everlasting life[a] did enter into a covenant of grace, to deliver them out + of the estate of sin and misery, and to bring them into an estate of salvation + by a Redeemer[b]. + verses: + a: + - Acts.13.48 + - Eph.1.4-Eph.1.5 + - 2Thess.2.13-2Thess.2.14 + b: + - Gen.3.15,Gen.17.7 + - Exod.19.5-Exod.19.6 + - Jer.31.31-Jer.31.34 + - Matt.20.28 + - 1Cor.11.25 + - Heb.9.15 + - question: Who is the Redeemer of God's elect? + number: 21 + answer: >- + The only Redeemer of God's elect is the Lord Jesus Christ[a], who, being the + eternal Son of God[b], became man[c] and so was, and continueth to be, God + and man in two distinct natures, and one person, forever[d]. + verses: + a: + - John.14.6 + - Acts.4.12 + - 1Tim.2.5-1Tim.2.6 + b: + - Ps.2.7 + - Matt.3.17,Matt.17.5 + - John.1.18 + c: + - Isa.9.6 + - Matt.1.23 + - John.1.14 + - Gal.4.4 + d: + - Acts.1.11 + - Heb.7.24-Heb.7.25 + - question: How did Christ, being the Son of God, become man? + number: 22 + answer: >- + Christ, the Son of God, became man, by taking to himself a true body, and a + reasonable soul[a], being conceived by the power of the Holy Ghost, in the + womb of the virgin Mary, and born of her[b] yet without sin[c]. + verses: + a: + - Phil.2.7 + - Heb.2.14,Heb.2.17 + b: + - Luke.1.27,Luke.1.31,Luke.1.35 + c: + - 2Cor.5.21 + - Heb.4.15,Heb.7.26 + - 1John.3.5 + - question: What offices doth Christ execute as our Redeemer? + number: 23 + answer: >- + Christ, as our Redeemer, executeth the offices of a prophet[a], of a priest + [b], and of a king[c], both in his estate of humiliation and exaltation. + verses: + a: + - Deut.18.18 + - Acts.2.33,Acts.3.22-Acts.3.23 + - Heb.1.1-Heb.1.2 + b: + - Heb.4.14-Heb.4.15,Heb.5.5-Heb.5.6 + c: + - Isa.9.6-Isa.9.7 + - Luke.1.32-Luke.1.33 + - John.18.37 + - 1Cor.15.25 + - question: How doth Christ execute the office of a prophet? + number: 24 + answer: >- + Christ executeth the office of a prophet, in revealing to us, by his Word[a] + and Spirit[b] the will of God for our salvation[c]. + verses: + a: + - Luke.4.18-Luke.4.19,Luke.4.21 + - Acts.1.1-Acts.1.2 + - Heb.2.3 + b: + - John.15.26-John.15.27 + - Acts.1.8 + - 1Pet.1.11 + c: + - John.4.41-John.4.42,John.20.30-John.20.31 + - question: How doth Christ execute the office of a priest? + number: 25 + answer: >- + Christ executeth the office of a priest, in his once offering up of himself + a sacrifice to satisfy divine justice[a], and reconcile us to God[b]; and + in making continual intercession for us[c]. + verses: + a: + - Isa.53 + - Acts.8.32-Acts.8.35 + - Heb.9.26-Heb.9.28,Heb.10.12 + b: + - Rom.5.10-Rom.5.11 + - 2Cor.5.18 + - Col.1.21-Col.1.22 + c: + - Rom.8.34 + - Heb.7.25,Heb.9.24 + - question: How doth Christ execute the office of a king? + number: 26 + answer: >- + Christ executeth the office of a king, in subduing us to himself, in ruling + and defending us[a], and in restraining and conquering all his and our enemies + [b]. + verses: + a: + - Ps.110.3 + - Matt.28.18-Matt.28.20 + - John.17.2 + - Col.1.13 + b: + - Ps.2.6-Ps.2.9,Ps.110.1-Ps.110.2 + - Matt.12.28 + - 1Cor.15.24-1Cor.15.26 + - Col.2.15 + - question: Wherein did Christ's humiliation consist? + number: 27 + answer: >- + Christ's humiliation consisted in his being born, and that in a low condition + [a], made under the law[b], undergoing the miseries of this life[c], the wrath + of God[d], and the cursed death of the cross[e]; in being buried, and continuing + under the power of death for a time.[f] + verses: + a: + - Luke.2.7 + - 2Cor.8.9 + - Gal.4.4 + b: + - Gal.4.4 + c: + - Isa.53.3 + - Luke.9.58 + - John.4.6,John.11.35 + - Heb.2.18 + d: + - Ps.22.1,Matt.27.46,Isa.53.10 + - 1John.2.2 + e: + - Gal.3.13 + - Phil.2.8 + f: + - Matt.12.40 + - 1Cor.15.3-1Cor.15.4 + - question: Wherein consisteth Christ's exaltation? + number: 28 + answer: >- + Christ's exaltation consisteth in his rising again from the dead on the third + day[a], in ascending up into heaven[b], in sitting at the right hand[c] of + God the Father, and in coming to judge the world at the last day[d]. + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.15.4 + b: + - Ps.68.18 + - Acts.1.11 + - Eph.4.8 + c: + - Ps.110.1 + - Acts.2.33-Acts.2.34 + - Heb.1.3 + d: + - Matt.16.27 + - Acts.17.31 + - question: How are we made partakers of the redemption purchased by Christ? + number: 29 + answer: >- + We are made partakers of the redemption purchased by Christ, by the effectual + application of it to us by his Holy Spirit[a]. + verses: + a: + - Titus.3.4-Titus.3.7 + - question: How doth the Spirit apply to us the redemption purchased by Christ? + number: 30 + answer: >- + The Spirit applieth to us the redemption purchased by Christ, by working faith + in us[a], and thereby uniting us to Christ in our effectual calling[b]. + verses: + a: + - Rom.10.17 + - 1Cor.2.12-1Cor.2.16 + - Eph.2.8 + - Phil.1.29 + b: + - John.15.5 + - 1Cor.1.9 + - Eph.3.17 + - question: What is effectual calling? + number: 31 + answer: >- + Effectual calling is the work of God's Spirit, whereby, convincing us of our + sin and misery, enlightening our minds in the knowledge of Christ[a], and renewing + our wills[b], he doth persuade and enable us to embrace Jesus Christ[c], freely + offered to us in the gospel[d]. + verses: + a: + - Acts.26.18 + - 1Cor.2.10,1Cor.2.12 + - 2Cor.4.6 + - Eph.1.17-Eph.1.18 + b: + - Deut.30.6 + - Ezek.36.26-Ezek.36.27 + - John.3.5 + - Titus.3.5 + c: + - John.6.44-John.6.45 + - Acts.16.14 + d: + - Isa.45.22 + - Matt.11.28-Matt.11.30 + - Rev.22.17 + - question: What benefits do they that are effectually called partake of in this + life? + number: 32 + answer: >- + They that are effectually called do in this life partake of justification, adoption, + and sanctification, and the several benefits which in this life do either accompany + or flow from them[a]. + verses: + a: + - Rom.8.30 + - 1Cor.1.30,1Cor.6.11 + - Eph.1.5 + - question: What is justification? + number: 33 + answer: >- + Justification is an act of God's free grace[a], wherein he pardoneth all our + sins[b], and accepteth us as righteous in his sight[c], only for the righteousness + of Christ imputed to us[d], and received by faith alone[e]. + verses: + a: + - Rom.3.24 + b: + - Rom.4.6-Rom.4.8 + - 2Cor.5.19 + c: + - 2Cor.5.21 + d: + - Rom.4.6,Rom.4.11,Rom.5.19 + e: + - Gal.2.16 + - Phil.3.9 + - question: What is adoption? + number: 34 + answer: >- + Adoption is an act of God's free grace[a], whereby we are received into the + number, and have a right to all the privileges, of the sons of God[b]. + verses: + a: + - 1John.3.1 + b: + - John.1.12 + - Rom.8.17 + - question: What is sanctification? + number: 35 + answer: >- + Sanctification is the work of God's free grace[a], whereby we are renewed in + the whole man after the image of God[b], and are enabled more and more to die + unto sin, and live unto righteousness[c]. + verses: + a: + - Ezek.36.27 + - Phil.2.13 + - 2Thess.2.13 + b: + - 2Cor.5.17 + - Eph.4.23-Eph.4.24 + - 1Thess.5.23 + c: + - Ezek.36.25-Ezek.36.27 + - Rom.6.4,Rom.6.6,Rom.6.12-Rom.6.14 + - 2Cor.7.1 + - 1Pet.2.24 + - question: >- + What are the benefits which in this life do accompany or flow from justification, + adoption, and sanctification? + number: 36 + answer: >- + The benefits which in this life do accompany or flow from justification, adoption, + and sanctification, are, assurance of God's love[a], peace of conscience[b], + joy in the Holy Ghost[c], increase of grace[d], and perseverance therein to + the end[e]. + verses: + a: + - Rom.5.5 + b: + - Rom.5.1 + c: + - Rom.14.17 + d: + - 2Pet.3.18 + e: + - Phil.1.6 + - 1Pet.1.5 + - question: What benefits do believers receive from Christ at death? + number: 37 + answer: >- + The souls of believers are at their death made perfect in holiness[a], and + do immediately pass into glory[b]; and their bodies, being still united to + Christ[c], do rest in their graves till the resurrection[d]. + verses: + a: + - Heb.12.23 + b: + - Luke.23.43 + - 2Cor.5.6,2Cor.5.8 + - Phil.1.23 + c: + - 1Thess.4.14 + d: + - Dan.12.2 + - John.5.28-John.5.29 + - Acts.24.15 + - question: What benefits do believers receive from Christ at the resurrection? + number: 38 + answer: >- + At the resurrection, believers being raised up in glory[a], shall be openly + acknowledged and acquitted in the day of judgment[b], and made perfectly blessed + in the full enjoying of God[c] to all eternity[d]. + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.15.42-1Cor.15.43 + b: + - Matt.25.33-Matt.25.34,Matt.25.46 + c: + - Rom.8.29 + - 1John.3.2 + d: + - Ps.16.11 + - 1Thess.4.17 + - question: What is the duty which God requireth of man? + number: 39 + answer: The duty which God requireth of man, is obedience to his revealed will + [a]. + verses: + a: + - Deut.29.29 + - Mic.6.8 + - 1John.5.2-1John.5.3 + - question: What did God at first reveal to man for the rule of his obedience? + number: 40 + answer: >- + The rule which God at first revealed to man for his obedience, was the moral + law[a]. + verses: + a: + - Rom.2.14-Rom.2.15,Rom.10.5 + - question: Wherein is the moral law summarily comprehended? + number: 41 + answer: The moral law is summarily comprehended in the ten commandments[a]. + verses: + a: + - Deut.4.13 + - Matt.19.17-Matt.19.19 + - question: What is the sum of the ten commandments? + number: 42 + answer: >- + The sum of the ten commandments is, To love the Lord our God with all our heart, + with all our soul, with all our strength, and with all our mind; and our neighbour + as ourselves[a]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.22.37-Matt.22.40 + - question: What is the preface to the ten commandments? + number: 43 + answer: >- + The preface to the ten commandments is in these words, I am the Lord thy God, + which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. + [a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.2 + - Deut.5.6 + - question: What doth the preface to the ten commandments teach us? + number: 44 + answer: >- + The preface to the ten commandments teacheth us, That because God is the Lord, + and our God, and Redeemer, therefore we are bound to keep all his commandments + [a]. + verses: + a: + - Luke.1.74-Luke.1.75 + - 1Pet.1.14-1Pet.1.19 + - question: Which is the first commandment? + number: 45 + answer: The first commandment is, Thou shalt have no other gods before me.[a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.3 + - Deut.5.7 + - question: What is required in the first commandment? + number: 46 + answer: >- + The first commandment requireth us to know and acknowledge God to be the only + true God, and our God; and to worship and glorify him accordingly[a]. + verses: + a: + - 1Chr.28.9 + - Isa.45.20-Isa.45.25 + - Matt.4.10 + - question: What is forbidden in the first commandment? + number: 47 + answer: >- + The first commandment forbiddeth the denying[a], or not worshipping and glorifying + the true God as God[b], and our God[c]; and the giving of that worship and + glory to any other, which is due to him alone[d]. + verses: + a: + - Ps.14.1 + b: + - Rom.1.20-Rom.1.21 + c: + - Ps.81.10-Ps.81.11 + d: + - Ezek.8.16-Ezek.8.18 + - Rom.1.25 + - question: >- + What are we specially taught by these words, 'before me', in the first commandment? + number: 48 + answer: >- + These words, before me, in the first commandment teach us, that God, who seeth + all things, taketh notice of, and is much displeased with, the sin of having + any other God[a]. + verses: + a: + - Deut.30.17-Deut.30.18 + - Ps.44.20-Ps.44.21 + - Ezek.8.12 + - question: Which is the second commandment? + number: 49 + answer: >- + The second commandment is, Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or + any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, + or that is in the water under the earth: thou shalt not bow down thy self to + them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the + iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation + of them that hate me; and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, + and keep my commandments.[a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.4-Exod.20.6 + - Deut.5.8-Deut.5.10 + - question: What is required in the second commandment? + number: 50 + answer: >- + The second commandment requireth the receiving, observing, and keeping pure + and entire, all such religious worship and ordinances as God hath appointed + in his Word[a]. + verses: + a: + - Deut.12.32 + - Matt.28.20 + - question: What is forbidden in the second commandment? + number: 51 + answer: >- + The second commandment forbiddeth the worshipping of God by images[a], or any + other way not appointed in his Word[b]. + verses: + a: + - Deut.4.15-Deut.4.19 + - Rom.1.22-Rom.1.23 + b: + - Lev.10.1-Lev.10.2 + - Jer.19.4-Jer.19.5 + - Col.2.18-Col.2.23 + - question: What are the reasons annexed to the second commandment? + number: 52 + answer: >- + The reasons annexed to the second commandment are, God's sovereignty over us + [a], his propriety in us[b], and the zeal he hath to his own worship[c]. + verses: + a: + - Ps.95.2-Ps.95.3,Ps.95.6-Ps.95.7,Ps.96.9-Ps.96.10 + b: + - Exod.19.5 + - Ps.45.11 + - Isa.54.5 + c: + - Exod.34.14 + - 1Cor.10.22 + - question: Which is the third commandment? + number: 53 + answer: >- + The third commandment is, Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in + vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. + [a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.7 + - Deut.5.11 + - question: What is required in the third commandment? + number: 54 + answer: >- + The third commandment requireth the holy and reverend use of God's names, titles + [a], attributes[b], ordinances[c], Word[d], and works[e]. + verses: + a: + - Deut.10.20 + - Ps.29.2 + - Matt.6.9 + b: + - 1Chr.29.10-1Chr.29.13 + - Rev.15.3-Rev.15.4 + c: + - Acts.2.42 + - 1Cor.11.27-1Cor.11.28 + d: + - Ps.138.2 + - Rev.22.18-Rev.22.19 + e: + - Ps.107.21-Ps.107.22 + - Rev.4.11 + - question: What is forbidden in the third commandment? + number: 55 + answer: >- + The third commandment forbiddeth all profaning or abusing of anything whereby + God maketh himself known[a]. + verses: + a: + - Lev.19.12 + - Matt.5.33-Matt.5.37 + - Jas.5.12 + - question: What is the reason annexed to the third commandment? + number: 56 + answer: >- + The reason annexed to the third commandment is, that however the breakers of + this commandment may escape punishment from men, yet the Lord our God will not + suffer them to escape his righteous judgment[a]. + verses: + a: + - Deut.28.58-Deut.28.59 + - 1Sam.3.13,1Sam.4.11 + - question: Which is the fourth commandment? + number: 57 + answer: >- + The fourth commandment is, Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days + shalt thou labor, and do all thy work; but the seventh day is the sabbath of + the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy + daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger + that is within thy gates. For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the + sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord + blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.[a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.8-Exod.20.11 + - Deut.5.12-Deut.5.15 + - question: What is required in the fourth commandment? + number: 58 + answer: >- + The fourth commandment requireth the keeping holy to God such set times as he + hath appointed in his Word; expressly one whole day in seven, to be a holy sabbath + to himself[a]. + verses: + a: + - Exod.31.13,Exod.31.16-Exod.31.17 + - question: Which day of the seven hath God appointed to be the weekly sabbath? + number: 59 + answer: >- + From the beginning of the world to the resurrection of Christ, God appointed + the seventh day of the week to be the weekly sabbath[a]; and the first day + of the week ever since, to continue to the end of the world, which is the Christian + sabbath[b]. + verses: + a: + - Gen.2.2-Gen.2.3 + - Exod.20.11 + b: + - Mark.2.27-Mark.2.28 + - Acts.20.7 + - 1Cor.16.2 + - Rev.1.10 + - question: How is the sabbath to be sanctified? + number: 60 + answer: >- + The sabbath is to be sanctified by a holy resting all that day, even from such + worldly employments and recreations as are lawful on other days[a]; and spending + the whole time in the public and private exercises of God's worship[b], except + so much as is to be taken up in the works of necessity and mercy[c]. + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.10 + - Neh.13.15-Neh.13.22 + - Isa.58.13-Isa.58.14 + b: + - Exod.20.8 + - Lev.23.3 + - Luke.4.16 + - Acts.20.7 + c: + - Matt.12.1-Matt.12.13 + - question: What is forbidden in the fourth commandment? + number: 61 + answer: >- + The fourth commandment forbiddeth the omission or careless performance of the + duties required, and the profaning the day by idleness, or doing that which + is in itself sinful, or by unnecessary thoughts, words, or works, about our + worldly employments or recreations[a]. + verses: + a: + - Neh.13.15-Neh.13.22 + - Isa.58.13-Isa.58.14 + - Amos.8.4-Amos.8.6 + - question: What are the reasons annexed to the fourth commandment? + number: 62 + answer: >- + The reasons annexed to the fourth commandment are, God's allowing us six days + of the week for our own employments[a], his challenging a special propriety + in the seventh, his own example, and his blessing the sabbath day[b]. + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.9,Exod.31.15 + - Lev.23.3 + b: + - Gen.2.2-Gen.2.3 + - Exod.20.11,Exod.31.17 + - question: Which is the fifth commandment? + number: 63 + answer: >- + The fifth commandment is, Honour thy father and thy mother; that thy days may + be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.[a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.12 + - Deut.5.16 + - question: What is required in the fifth commandment? + number: 64 + answer: >- + The fifth commandment requireth the preserving the honor, and performing the + duties, belonging to everyone in their several places and relations, as superiors, + inferiors, or equals[a]. + verses: + a: + - Rom.13.1,Rom.13.7 + - Eph.5.21-Eph.5.22,Eph.5.24,Eph.6.1,Eph.6.4-Eph.6.5,Eph.6.9 + - 1Pet.2.17 + - question: What is forbidden in the fifth commandment? + number: 65 + answer: >- + The fifth commandment forbiddeth the neglecting of, or doing anything against, + the honor and duty which belongeth to everyone in their several places and relations + [a]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.15.4-Matt.15.6 + - Rom.13.8 + - question: What is the reason annexed to the fifth commandment? + number: 66 + answer: >- + The reason annexed to the fifth commandment is, a promise of long life and prosperity + (as far as it shall serve for God's glory and their own good) to all such as + keep this commandment[a]. + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.12 + - Deut.5.16 + - Eph.6.2-Eph.6.3 + - question: Which is the sixth commandment? + number: 67 + answer: The sixth commandment is, Thou shalt not kill.[a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.13 + - Deut.5.17 + - question: What is required in the sixth commandment? + number: 68 + answer: >- + The sixth commandment requireth all lawful endeavors to preserve our own life, + and the life of others[a]. + verses: + a: + - Eph.5.28-Eph.5.29 + - question: What is forbidden in the sixth commandment? + number: 69 + answer: >- + The sixth commandment forbiddeth the taking away of our own life, or the life + of our neighbour, unjustly, or whatsoever tendeth thereunto[a]. + verses: + a: + - Gen.9.6 + - Matt.5.22 + - 1John.3.15 + - question: Which is the seventh commandment? + number: 70 + answer: The seventh commandment is, Thou shalt not commit adultery.[a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.14 + - Deut.5.18 + - question: What is required in the seventh commandment? + number: 71 + answer: >- + The seventh commandment requireth the preservation of our own and our neighbour's + chastity, in heart, speech, and behavior[a]. + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.7.2-1Cor.7.3,1Cor.7.5 + - 1Thess.4.3-1Thess.4.5 + - question: What is forbidden in the seventh commandment? + number: 72 + answer: >- + The seventh commandment forbiddeth all unchaste thoughts, words, and actions + [a]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.5.28 + - Eph.5.3-Eph.5.4 + - question: Which is the eighth commandment? + number: 73 + answer: The eighth commandment is, Thou shalt not steal.[a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.15 + - Deut.5.19 + - question: What is required in the eighth commandment? + number: 74 + answer: >- + The eighth commandment requireth the lawful procuring and furthering the wealth + and outward estate of ourselves and others[a]. + verses: + a: + - Lev.25.35 + - Eph.4.28,Phil.2.4 + - question: What is forbidden in the eighth commandment? + number: 75 + answer: >- + The eighth commandment forbiddeth whatsoever doth, or may, unjustly hinder our + own, or our neighbour's, wealth or outward estate[a]. + verses: + a: + - Prov.28.19-Prov.28.28,Eph.4.28,2Thess.3.10 + - 1Tim.5.8 + - question: Which is the ninth commandment? + number: 76 + answer: >- + The ninth commandment is, Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. + [a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.16 + - Deut.5.20 + - question: What is required in the ninth commandment? + number: 77 + answer: >- + The ninth commandment requireth the maintaining and promoting of truth between + man and man, and of our own and our neighbour's good name[a], especially in + witness bearing[b]. + verses: + a: + - Zech.8.16 + - Acts.25.10 + - 3John.1.12 + b: + - Prov.14.5,Prov.14.25 + - question: What is forbidden in the ninth commandment? + number: 78 + answer: >- + The ninth commandment forbiddeth whatsoever is prejudicial to truth, or injurious + to our own, or our neighbour's, good name[a]. + verses: + a: + - Lev.19.16 + - Ps.15.3 + - Prov.6.16-Prov.6.19 + - Luke.3.14 + - question: Which is the tenth commandment? + number: 79 + answer: >- + The tenth commandment is, Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt + not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor + his ox, nor his ass, nor anything that is thy neighbour's.[a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.17 + - Deut.5.21 + - question: What is required in the tenth commandment? + number: 80 + answer: >- + The tenth commandment requireth full contentment with our own condition[a], + with a right and charitable frame of spirit toward our neighbour, and all that + is his[b]. + verses: + a: + - Ps.34.1 + - Phil.4.11 + - 1Tim.6.6 + - Heb.13.5 + b: + - Luke.15.6,Luke.15.9,Luke.15.11-Luke.15.32 + - Rom.12.15 + - Phil.2.4 + - question: What is forbidden in the tenth commandment? + number: 81 + answer: >- + The tenth commandment forbiddeth all discontentment with our own estate[a], + envying or grieving at the good of our neighbour, and all inordinate motions + and affections to anything that is his[b]. + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.10.10 + - Jas.3.14-Jas.3.16 + b: + - Gal.5.26 + - Col.3.5 + - question: Is any man able perfectly to keep the commandments of God? + number: 82 + answer: >- + No mere man, since the fall, is able in this life perfectly to keep the commandments + of God, but doth daily break them in thought, word, and deed[a]. + verses: + a: + - Gen.8.21 + - Rom.3.9-Rom.3.31,Rom.3.23 + - question: Are all transgressions of the law equally heinous? + number: 83 + answer: >- + Some sins in themselves, and by reason of several aggravations, are more heinous + in the sight of God than others[a]. + verses: + a: + - Ezek.8.6,Ezek.8.13,Ezek.8.15 + - Matt.11.20-Matt.11.24 + - John.19.11 + - question: What doth every sin deserve? + number: 84 + answer: >- + Every sin deserveth God's wrath and curse, both in this life, and that which + is to come[a]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.25.41 + - Gal.3.10 + - Eph.5.6 + - Jas.2.10 + - question: >- + What doth God require of us, that we may escape his wrath and curse, due to + us for sin? + number: 85 + answer: >- + To escape the wrath and curse of God, due to us for sin, God requireth of us + faith in Jesus Christ, repentance unto life[a], with the diligent use of all + the outward means whereby Christ communicateth to us the benefits of redemption + [b]. + verses: + a: + - Mark.1.15 + - Acts.20.21 + b: + - Acts.2.38 + - 1Cor.11.24-1Cor.11.25 + - Col.3.16 + - question: What is faith in Jesus Christ? + number: 86 + answer: >- + Faith in Jesus Christ is a saving grace[a], whereby we receive and rest upon + him alone for salvation, as he is offered to us in the gospel[b]. + verses: + a: + - Eph.2.8-Eph.2.9 + - Rom.4.16 + b: + - John.20.30-John.20.31 + - Gal.2.15-Gal.2.16 + - Phil.3.3-Phil.3.11 + - question: What is repentance unto life? + number: 87 + answer: >- + Repentance unto life is a saving grace[a], whereby a sinner, out of a true + sense of his sin, and apprehension of the mercy of God in Christ[b], doth, + with grief and hatred of his sin, turn from it unto God[c], with full purpose + of, and endeavour after, new obedience[d]. + verses: + a: + - Acts.11.18 + - 2Tim.2.25 + b: + - Ps.51.1-Ps.51.4 + - Joel.2.13 + - Luke.15.7,Luke.15.10 + - Acts.2.37 + c: + - Jer.31.18-Jer.31.19 + - Luke.1.16-Luke.1.17 + - 1Thess.1.9 + d: + - 2Chr.7.14 + - Ps.119.57-Ps.119.64 + - Matt.3.8 + - 2Cor.7.10 + - question: >- + What are the outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicateth to us the + benefits of redemption? + number: 88 + answer: >- + The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicateth 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[a]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.28.18-Matt.28.20 + - Acts.2.41-Acts.2.42 + - question: How is the Word made effectual to salvation? + number: 89 + answer: >- + The Spirit of God maketh the reading, but especially the preaching of the Word, + an effectual means of convincing and converting sinners, and of building them + up in holiness and comfort, through faith, unto salvation[a]. + verses: + a: + - Neh.8.8-Neh.8.9 + - Acts.20.32 + - Rom.10.14-Rom.10.17 + - 2Tim.3.15-2Tim.3.17 + - question: >- + How is the Word to be read and heard, that it may become effectual to salvation? + number: 90 + answer: >- + That the Word may become effectual to salvation, we must attend thereunto with + diligence, preparation, and prayer[a]; receive it with faith and love, lay + it up in our hearts, and practice it in our lives[b]. + verses: + a: + - Deut.6.6-Deut.6.25,Ps.119.18 + - 1Pet.2.1-1Pet.2.2 + b: + - Ps.119.11 + - 2Thess.2.10 + - Heb.4.2 + - Jas.1.22-Jas.1.25 + - question: How do the sacraments become effectual means of salvation? + number: 91 + answer: >- + The sacraments become effectual means of salvation, not from any virtue in them, + or in him that doth administer them; but only by the blessing of Christ, and + the working of his Spirit in them that by faith receive them[a]. + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.3.7 + - 1Cor.1.12-1Cor.1.17 + - question: What is a sacrament? + number: 92 + answer: >- + A sacrament is an holy ordinance instituted by Christ[a]; wherein, by sensible + signs, Christ, and the benefits of the new covenant, are represented, sealed, + and applied to believers[b]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.28.19,Matt.26.26-Matt.26.28 + - Mark.14.22-Mark.14.25 + - Luke.22.19-Luke.22.20 + - 1Cor.1.22-1Cor.1.26 + b: + - Gal.3.27 + - 1Cor.10.16-1Cor.10.17 + - question: Which are the sacraments of the New Testament? + number: 93 + answer: >- + The sacraments of the New Testament are, Baptism[a], and the Lord's Supper + [b]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.28.19 + b: + - 1Cor.11.23-1Cor.11.26 + - question: What is Baptism? + number: 94 + answer: >- + Baptism is a sacrament, wherein the washing with water in the name of the Father, + and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost[a], doth 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[b]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.28.19 + b: + - Acts.2.38-Acts.2.42,Acts.22.16 + - Rom.6.3-Rom.6.4 + - Gal.3.26-Gal.3.27 + - 1Pet.3.21 + - question: To whom is Baptism to be administered? + number: 95 + answer: >- + Baptism is not to be administered to any that are out of the visible church, + till they profess their faith in Christ, and obedience to him[a]; but the infants + of such as are members of the visible church are to be baptized[b]. + verses: + a: + - Acts.2.41,Acts.8.12,Acts.8.36,Acts.8.38,Acts.18.8 + b: + - Gen.17.7,Gen.17.9-Gen.17.11 + - Acts.2.38-Acts.2.39,Acts.16.32-Acts.16.33 + - Col.2.11-Col.2.12 + - question: What is the Lord's Supper? + number: 96 + 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[a]; 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[b]. + verses: + a: + - Luke.22.19-Luke.22.20 + - 1Cor.11.23-1Cor.11.26 + b: + - 1Cor.10.16-1Cor.10.17 + - question: What is required for the worthy receiving of the Lord's Supper? + number: 97 + answer: >- + It is required of them that would worthily partake of the Lord's Supper, that + they examine themselves of their knowledge to discern the Lord's body, of their + faith to feed upon him, of their repentance, love, and new obedience; lest, + coming unworthily, they eat and drink judgment to themselves[a]. + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.11.27-1Cor.11.32 + - question: What is prayer? + number: 98 + answer: >- + Prayer is an offering up of our desires unto God[a], for things agreeable to + his will[b], in the name of Christ[c], with confession of our sins[d], and + thankful acknowledgement of his mercies.[e] + verses: + a: + - Ps.10.17,Ps.62.8 + - Matt.7.7-Matt.7.8 + b: + - 1John.5.14 + c: + - John.16.23-John.16.24 + d: + - Ps.32.5-Ps.32.6 + - Dan.9.4-Dan.9.19 + - 1John.1.9 + e: + - Ps.103.1-Ps.103.5 + - Phil.4.6 + - question: What rule hath God given for our direction in prayer? + number: 99 + answer: >- + The whole Word of God is of use to direct us in prayer[a]; but the special + rule of direction is that form of prayer which Christ taught his disciples, + commonly called The Lord's Prayer.[b] + verses: + a: + - 1John.5.14 + b: + - Matt.6.9-Matt.6.13 + - question: What doth the preface of the Lord's Prayer teach us? + number: 100 + answer: >- + The preface of the Lord's Prayer, which is, Our Father which art in heaven, + teacheth us to draw near to God with all holy reverence[a] and confidence[b], + as children to a father[c], able and ready to help us[d]; and that we should + pray with and for others[e]. + verses: + a: + - Ps.95.6 + b: + - Eph.3.12 + c: + - Matt.7.9-Matt.7.11,Luke.11.11-Luke.11.13 + - Rom.8.15 + d: + - Eph.3.20 + e: + - Eph.6.18 + - 1Tim.2.1-1Tim.2.2 + - question: What do we pray for in the first petition? + number: 101 + answer: >- + In the first petition, which is, Hallowed be thy name, we pray, that God would + enable us, and others, to glorify him in all that whereby he maketh himself + known[a]; and that he would dispose all things to his own glory[b]. + verses: + a: + - Ps.67.1-Ps.67.3,Ps.99.3,Ps.100.3-Ps.100.4 + b: + - Rom.11.33-Rom.11.36 + - Rev.4.11 + - question: What do we pray for in the second petition? + number: 102 + answer: >- + In the second petition, which is, Thy kingdom come, we pray, that Satan's kingdom + may be destroyed[a]; and that the kingdom of grace may be advanced[b], ourselves + and others brought into it, and kept in it[c]; and that the kingdom of glory + may be hastened[d]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.12.25-Matt.12.28 + - Rom.16.20 + - 1John.3.8 + b: + - Ps.72.8-Ps.72.11 + - Matt.24.14 + - 1Cor.15.24-1Cor.15.25 + c: + - Ps.119.5 + - Luke.22.32 + - 2Thess.3.1-2Thess.3.5 + d: + - Rev.22.20 + - question: What do we pray for in the third petition? + number: 103 + answer: >- + In the third petition, which is, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven, + we pray, that God, by his grace, would make us able and willing to know, obey, + and submit to his will in all things[a], as the angels do in heaven[b]. + verses: + a: + - Ps.19.14 + - 1Thess.5.23 + - Heb.13.20-Heb.13.21 + b: + - Ps.103.20-Ps.103.21 + - Heb.1.14 + - question: What do we pray for in the fourth petition? + number: 104 + answer: >- + In the fourth petition, which is, Give us this day our daily bread, we pray + that of God's free gift we may receive a competent portion of the good things + of this life, and enjoy his blessing with them[a]. + verses: + a: + - Prov.30.8-Prov.30.9 + - Matt.6.31-Matt.6.34 + - Phil.4.11,Phil.4.19 + - 1Tim.6.6-1Tim.6.8 + - question: What do we pray for in the fifth petition? + number: 105 + answer: >- + In the fifth petition, which is, And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our + debtors, we pray that God, for Christ's sake, would freely pardon all our sins + [a]; which we are the rather encouraged to ask, because by his grace we are + enabled from the heart to forgive others[b]. + verses: + a: + - Ps.51.1-Ps.51.2,Ps.51.7,Ps.51.9 + - Dan.9.17-Dan.9.19 + - 1John.1.7 + b: + - Matt.18.21-Matt.18.35 + - Eph.4.32 + - Col.3.13 + - question: What do we pray for in the sixth petition? + number: 106 + answer: >- + In the sixth petition, which is, And lead us not into temptation, but deliver + us from evil, we pray, that God would either keep us from being tempted to sin + [a], or support and deliver us when we are tempted[b]. + verses: + a: + - Ps.19.13 + - Matt.26.41 + - John.17.15 + b: + - Luke.22.31-Luke.22.32 + - 1Cor.10.13 + - 2Cor.12.7-2Cor.12.9 + - Heb.2.18 + - question: What doth the conclusion of the Lord's Prayer teach us? + number: 107 + answer: >- + The conclusion of the Lord's Prayer, which is, For thine is the kingdom, and + the power, and the glory, for ever, Amen. teacheth us to take our encouragement + in prayer from God only[a], and in our prayers to praise him, ascribing kingdom, + power, and glory to him[b]; and, in testimony of our desire, and assurance + to be heard, we say, Amen.[c] + verses: + a: + - Dan.9.4,Dan.9.7-Dan.9.9,Dan.9.16-Dan.9.19 + - Luke.18.1,Luke.18.7-Luke.18.8 + b: + - 1Chr.29.10-1Chr.29.13 + - 1Tim.1.17 + - Rev.5.11-Rev.5.13 + c: + - 1Cor.14.16 + - Rev.22.20 +... diff --git a/data/westminster/wsc.yaml b/data/westminster/wsc.yaml new file mode 100644 index 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000..6007d56c698a47c085935c1ce9e85d0d1281b501 --- /dev/null +++ b/data/westminster/wsc.yaml @@ -0,0 +1,1394 @@ +--- +name: Westminster Shorter Catechism +publication_year: 1646 +type: catechism +image: wsc.jpg +recommended_reading: + - wsc +questions: + - question: What is the chief end of man? + number: 1 + answer: Man's chief end is to glorify God,[a] and to enjoy him for ever.[b] + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.10.31 + - Rom.11.36 + b: + - Ps.73.25-Ps.73.28 + - question: What rule hath God given to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him? + number: 2 + answer: >- + The Word of God, which is contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, + [a] is the only rule to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him.[b] + verses: + a: + - 2Tim.3.16 + - Eph.2.20 + b: + - 1John.1.3-1John.1.4 + - question: What do the Scriptures principally teach? + number: 3 + answer: >- + The Scriptures principally teach what man is to believe concerning God, + and what duty God requires of man[a]. + verses: + a: + - 2Tim.1.13 + - 2Tim.3.16 + - question: What is God? + number: 4 + answer: >- + God is a Spirit[a], infinite[b], eternal[c], and unchangeable[d] in his + being[e], wisdom[f], power[g], holiness[h], justice, goodness, and + truth[i]. + verses: + a: + - John.4.24 + b: + - Job.11.7-Job.11.9 + c: + - Ps.90.2 + d: + - Jas.1.17 + e: + - Exod.3.14 + f: + - Ps.147.5 + g: + - Rev.4.8 + h: + - Rev.15.4 + i: + - Exod.34.6-Exod.34.7 + - question: Are there more Gods than one? + number: 5 + answer: There is but one only, the living and true God[a]. + verses: + a: + - Deut.6.4 + - Jer.10.10 + - question: How many persons are there in the Godhead? + number: 6 + answer: >- + There are three persons in the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; + and these three are one God, the same in substance, equal in power and + glory.[a] + verses: + a: + - 1John.5.7 + - Matt.28.19 + - question: What are the decrees of God? + number: 7 + answer: >- + The decrees of God are, his eternal purpose, according to the counsel of his + will, whereby, for his own glory, he hath foreordained whatsoever comes to pass + [a]. + verses: + a: + - Eph.1.4 + - Rom.9.22-Rom.9.23 + - question: How doth God execute his decrees? + number: 8 + answer: God executeth his decrees in the works of creation and providence. + verses: {} + - question: What is the work of creation? + number: 9 + answer: >- + The work of creation is, God's making all things of nothing, by the word of + his power, in the space of six days, and all very good.[a] + verses: + a: + - Gen.1 + - Heb.11.3 + - question: How did God create man? + number: 10 + answer: >- + God created man male and female, after his own image, in knowledge, + righteousness, and holiness, with dominion over the creatures[a]. + verses: + a: + - Gen.1.26-Gen.1.28 + - Col.3.10 + - Eph.4.24 + - question: What are God's works of providence? + number: 11 + answer: >- + God's works of providence are, his most holy[a], wise[b], and powerful + preserving[c] and governing all his creatures, and all their actions[d]. + verses: + a: + - Ps.145.17 + b: + - Ps.104.24 + - Isa.28.29 + c: + - Heb.1.3 + d: + - Ps.103.19 + - Matt.10.29-Matt.10.31 + - question: >- + What special act of providence did God exercise toward man in the estate wherein + he was created? + number: 12 + answer: >- + When God had created man, he entered into a covenant of life with him, upon + condition of perfect obedience; forbidding him to eat of the tree of the knowledge + of good and evil, upon pain of death.[a] + verses: + a: + - Gal.3.12 + - Gen.2.17 + - question: Did our first parents continue in the estate wherein they were created? + number: 13 + answer: >- + Our first parents, being left to the freedom of their own will, fell from the + estate wherein they were created, by sinning against God[a]. + verses: + a: + - Gen.3.6-Gen.3.8,Gen.3.13 + - Eccl.7.29 + - question: What is sin? + number: 14 + answer: Sin is any want of conformity unto, or transgression of, the law of God + [a]. + verses: + a: + - 1John.3.4 + - question: >- + What was the sin whereby our first parents fell from the estate wherein they + were created? + number: 15 + answer: >- + The sin whereby our first parents fell from the estate wherein they were created, + was their eating the forbidden fruit[a]. + verses: + a: + - Gen.3.6 + - Gen.3.12 + - question: Did all mankind fall in Adam's first transgression? + number: 16 + answer: >- + The covenant being made with Adam, not only for himself, but for his posterity; + all mankind, descending from him by ordinary generation, sinned in him, and + fell with him, in his first transgression[a]. + verses: + a: + - Gen.2.16-Gen.2.17 + - Rom.5.12 + - 1Cor.15.21-1Cor.15.22 + - question: Into what estate did the fall bring mankind? + number: 17 + answer: The fall brought mankind into an estate of sin and misery[a]. + verses: + a: + - Rom.5.12 + - question: Wherein consists the sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell? + number: 18 + answer: >- + The sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell, consists in the guilt of Adam's + first sin, the want of original righteousness, and the corruption of + his whole nature, which is commonly called original sin; together with all + actual transgressions which proceed from it[a]. + verses: + a: + - Rom.5.12 + - Rom.5.19 + - Rom.5.10-Rom.5.20 + - Eph.2.1-Eph.2.3 + - Jas.1.14-Jas.1.15 + - Matt.15.19 + - question: What is the misery of that estate whereinto man fell? + number: 19 + answer: >- + All mankind by their fall lost communion with God[a], are under his wrath + and curse[b], and so made liable to all miseries in this life, to death + itself, and to the pains of hell for ever[c]. + verses: + a: + - Gen.3.8,Gen.3.10,Gen.3.24 + b: + - Eph.2.2-Eph.2.3 + - Gal.3.10 + c: + - Lam.3.39 + - Rom.6.23 + - Matt.25.41,Matt.25.46 + - question: Did God leave all mankind to perish in the estate of sin and misery? + number: 20 + answer: >- + God having, out of his mere good pleasure, from all eternity, elected some to + everlasting life[a] did enter into a covenant of grace, to deliver them out + of the estate of sin and misery, and to bring them into an estate of salvation + by a Redeemer[b]. + verses: + a: + - Eph.1.4 + b: + - Rom.3.20-Rom.3.22 + - Gal.3.21-Gal.3.22 + - question: Who is the Redeemer of God's elect? + number: 21 + answer: >- + The only Redeemer of God's elect is the Lord Jesus Christ[a], who, being the + eternal Son of God, became man[b] and so was, and continueth to be, God + and man in two distinct natures, and one person, forever[c]. + verses: + a: + - 1Tim.2.5-1Tim.2.6 + b: + - John.1.14 + - Gal.4.4 + c: + - Rom.9.5 + - Luke.1.35 + - Col.2.9 + - Heb.7.24-Heb.7.25 + - question: How did Christ, being the Son of God, become man? + number: 22 + answer: >- + Christ, the Son of God, became man, by taking to himself a true body[a], and a + reasonable soul[b], being conceived by the power of the Holy Ghost, in the + womb of the virgin Mary, and born of her[c] yet without sin[d]. + verses: + a: + - Heb.2.14,Heb.2.16,Heb.10.5 + b: + - Matt.26.38 + c: + - Luke.1.27,Luke.1.31,Luke.1.35,Luke.1.42 + - Gal.4.4 + d: + - Heb.4.15,Heb.7.26 + - question: What offices doth Christ execute as our Redeemer? + number: 23 + answer: >- + Christ, as our Redeemer, executeth the offices of a prophet, of a priest, + and of a king, both in his estate of humiliation and exaltation[a]. + verses: + a: + - Acts.3.21-Acts.3.22 + - Heb.12.25 + - 2Cor.13.3 + - Heb.5.5-Heb.5.7 + - Heb.7.25 + - Ps.2.6 + - Isa.9.6-Isa.9.7 + - Matt.21.5 + - Ps.2.8-Ps.2.11 + - question: How doth Christ execute the office of a prophet? + number: 24 + answer: >- + Christ executeth the office of a prophet, in revealing to us, by his Word + and Spirit the will of God for our salvation[a]. + verses: + a: + - John.1.18 + - 1Pet.1.10-1Pet.1.12 + - John.15.15 + - John.20.31 + - question: How doth Christ execute the office of a priest? + number: 25 + answer: >- + Christ executeth the office of a priest, in his once offering up of himself + a sacrifice to satisfy divine justice[a], and reconcile us to God[b]; and + in making continual intercession for us[c]. + verses: + a: + - Heb.9.14 + - Heb.9.28 + b: + - Heb.2.17 + c: + - Heb.7.24-Heb.7.25 + - question: How doth Christ execute the office of a king? + number: 26 + answer: >- + Christ executeth the office of a king, in subduing us to himself[a], in ruling[b] + and defending us[c], and in restraining and conquering all his and our enemies + [d]. + verses: + a: + - Acts.15.14-Acts.15.16 + b: + - Isa.32.22 + c: + - Isa.32.1-Isa.32.2 + d: + - 1Cor.15.25 + - Ps.110 + - question: Wherein did Christ's humiliation consist? + number: 27 + answer: >- + Christ's humiliation consisted in his being born, and that in a low condition + [a], made under the law[b], undergoing the miseries of this life[c], the wrath + of God[d], and the cursed death of the cross[e]; in being buried[f], and continuing + under the power of death for a time.[g] + verses: + a: + - Luke.2.7 + b: + - Gal.4.4 + c: + - Heb.12.2-Heb.12.3 + - Isa.53.2-Isa.53.3 + d: + - Luke.22.44 + - Matt.27.46 + e: + - Phil.2.8 + f: + - 1Cor.15.3-1Cor.15.4 + g: + - Acts.2.24-Acts.2.27 + - Acts.2.31 + - question: Wherein consisteth Christ's exaltation? + number: 28 + answer: >- + Christ's exaltation consisteth in his rising again from the dead on the third + day[a], in ascending up into heaven[b], in sitting at the right hand of + God the Father[c], and in coming to judge the world at the last day[d]. + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.15.4 + b: + - Mark.16.19 + c: + - Eph.1.20 + d: + - Acts.1.11 + - Acts.17.31 + - question: How are we made partakers of the redemption purchased by Christ? + number: 29 + answer: >- + We are made partakers of the redemption purchased by Christ, by the effectual + application of it to us[a] by his Holy Spirit[b]. + verses: + a: + - John.1.11-John.1.12 + b: + - Titus.3.5-Titus.3.6 + - question: How doth the Spirit apply to us the redemption purchased by Christ? + number: 30 + answer: >- + The Spirit applieth to us the redemption purchased by Christ, by working faith + in us[a], and thereby uniting us to Christ in our effectual calling[b]. + verses: + a: + - Eph.1.13-Eph.1.14 + - John.6.37 + - John.6.39 + - Eph.2.8 + b: + - Eph.3.17 + - 1Cor.1.9 + - question: What is effectual calling? + number: 31 + answer: >- + Effectual calling is the work of God's Spirit[a], whereby, convincing us of our + sin and misery[b], enlightening our minds in the knowledge of Christ[c], and renewing + our wills[d], he doth persuade and enable us to embrace Jesus Christ, freely + offered to us in the gospel[e]. + verses: + a: + - 2Tim.1.9 + - 2Thess.2.13-2Thess.2.14 + b: + - Acts.2.37 + c: + - Acts.26.18 + d: + - Ezek.36.26-Ezek.36.27 + e: + - John.6.44-John.6.45 + - Phil.2.13 + - question: What benefits do they that are effectually called partake of in this + life? + number: 32 + answer: >- + They that are effectually called do in this life partake of justification[a], adoption[b], + and sanctification, and the several benefits which in this life do either accompany + or flow from them[c]. + verses: + a: + - Rom.8.30 + b: + - Eph.1.5 + c: + - 1Cor.1.26 + - 1Cor.1.30 + - question: What is justification? + number: 33 + answer: >- + Justification is an act of God's free grace, wherein he pardoneth all our + sins[a], and accepteth us as righteous in his sight[b], only for the righteousness + of Christ imputed to us[c], and received by faith alone[d]. + verses: + a: + - Rom.3.24-Rom.3.25 + - Rom.4.6-Rom.4.8 + b: + - 2Cor.5.19 + - 2Cor.5.21 + c: + - Rom.5.17-Rom.5.19 + d: + - Gal.2.16 + - Phil.3.9 + - question: What is adoption? + number: 34 + answer: >- + Adoption is an act of God's free grace[a], whereby we are received into the + number, and have a right to all the privileges, of the sons of God[b]. + verses: + a: + - 1John.3.1 + b: + - John.1.12 + - Rom.8.17 + - question: What is sanctification? + number: 35 + answer: >- + Sanctification is the work of God's free grace[a], whereby we are renewed in + the whole man after the image of God[b], and are enabled more and more to die + unto sin, and live unto righteousness[c]. + verses: + a: + - 2Thess.2.13 + b: + - Eph.4.23-Eph.4.24 + c: + - Rom.6.4,Rom.6.6 + - question: >- + What are the benefits which in this life do accompany or flow from justification, + adoption, and sanctification? + number: 36 + answer: >- + The benefits which in this life do accompany or flow from justification, adoption, + and sanctification, are, assurance of God's love, peace of conscience[a], + joy in the Holy Ghost[b], increase of grace[c], and perseverance therein to + the end[d]. + verses: + a: + - Rom.5.1-Rom.5.2 + - Rom.5.5 + b: + - Rom.14.17 + c: + - Prov.4.18 + d: + - 1John.5.13 + - 1Pet.1.5 + - question: What benefits do believers receive from Christ at death? + number: 37 + answer: >- + The souls of believers are at their death made perfect in holiness[a], and + do immediately pass into glory[b]; and their bodies, being still united to + Christ[c], do rest in their graves[d] till the resurrection[e]. + verses: + a: + - Heb.12.23 + b: + - 2Cor.5.1,2Cor.5.6,2Cor.5.8 + - Phil.1.23 + - Luke.23.43 + c: + - 1Thess.4.14 + d: + - Isa.57.2 + e: + - Job.19.26-Job.19.27 + - question: What benefits do believers receive from Christ at the resurrection? + number: 38 + answer: >- + At the resurrection, believers being raised up in glory[a], shall be openly + acknowledged and acquitted in the day of judgment[b], and made perfectly blessed + in the full enjoying of God[c] to all eternity[d]. + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.15.43 + b: + - Matt.25.33 + - Matt.10.32 + c: + - 1John.3.2 + - 1Cor.13.12 + d: + - 1Thess.4.17-1Thess.4.18 + - question: What is the duty which God requireth of man? + number: 39 + answer: The duty which God requireth of man, is obedience to his revealed will + [a]. + verses: + a: + - Mic.6.8 + - 1Sam.15.22 + - question: What did God at first reveal to man for the rule of his obedience? + number: 40 + answer: >- + The rule which God at first revealed to man for his obedience, was the moral + law[a]. + verses: + a: + - Rom.2.14-Rom.2.15,Rom.10.5 + - question: Wherein is the moral law summarily comprehended? + number: 41 + answer: The moral law is summarily comprehended in the ten commandments[a]. + verses: + a: + - Deut.10.4 + - question: What is the sum of the ten commandments? + number: 42 + answer: >- + The sum of the ten commandments is, To love the Lord our God with all our heart, + with all our soul, with all our strength, and with all our mind; and our neighbour + as ourselves[a]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.22.37-Matt.22.40 + - question: What is the preface to the ten commandments? + number: 43 + answer: >- + The preface to the ten commandments is in these words, I am the Lord thy God, + which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. + [a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.2 + - question: What doth the preface to the ten commandments teach us? + number: 44 + answer: >- + The preface to the ten commandments teacheth us, That because God is the Lord, + and our God, and Redeemer, therefore we are bound to keep all his commandments + [a]. + verses: + a: + - Luke.1.74-Luke.1.75 + - 1Pet.1.14-1Pet.1.19 + - question: Which is the first commandment? + number: 45 + answer: The first commandment is, Thou shalt have no other gods before me.[a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.3 + - question: What is required in the first commandment? + number: 46 + answer: >- + The first commandment requireth us to know and acknowledge God to be the only + true God, and our God[a]; and to worship and glorify him accordingly[b]. + verses: + a: + - 1Chr.28.9 + - Deut.26.17 + b: + - Matt.4.10 + - Ps.29.2 + - question: What is forbidden in the first commandment? + number: 47 + answer: >- + The first commandment forbiddeth the denying[a], or not worshipping and glorifying + the true God as God[b], and our God[c]; and the giving of that worship and + glory to any other, which is due to him alone[d]. + verses: + a: + - Ps.14.1 + b: + - Rom.1.21 + c: + - Ps.81.10-Ps.81.11 + d: + - Rom.1.25-Rom.1.26 + - question: >- + What are we specially taught by these words, 'before me', in the first commandment? + number: 48 + answer: >- + These words, before me, in the first commandment teach us, that God, who seeth + all things, taketh notice of, and is much displeased with, the sin of having + any other God[a]. + verses: + a: + - Ezek.8.5-Ezek.8.18 + - question: Which is the second commandment? + number: 49 + answer: >- + The second commandment is, Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or + any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, + or that is in the water under the earth: thou shalt not bow down thy self to + them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the + iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation + of them that hate me; and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, + and keep my commandments.[a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.4 + - Exod.20.6 + - question: What is required in the second commandment? + number: 50 + answer: >- + The second commandment requireth the receiving, observing, and keeping pure + and entire, all such religious worship and ordinances as God hath appointed + in his Word[a]. + verses: + a: + - Deut.32.46 + - Matt.28.20 + - Acts.2.42 + - question: What is forbidden in the second commandment? + number: 51 + answer: >- + The second commandment forbiddeth the worshipping of God by images[a], or any + other way not appointed in his Word[b]. + verses: + a: + - Deut.4.15-Deut.4.19 + - Exod.32.5 + - Exod.32.8 + b: + - Deut.12.31-Deut.12.32 + - question: What are the reasons annexed to the second commandment? + number: 52 + answer: >- + The reasons annexed to the second commandment are, God's sovereignty over us + [a], his propriety in us[b], and the zeal he hath to his own worship[c]. + verses: + a: + - Ps.95.2-Ps.95.3 + - Ps.95.6 + b: + - Ps.45.11 + c: + - Exod.34.14 + - question: Which is the third commandment? + number: 53 + answer: >- + The third commandment is, Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in + vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. + [a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.7 + - question: What is required in the third commandment? + number: 54 + answer: >- + The third commandment requireth the holy and reverend use of God's names[a], titles + [b], attributes[c], ordinances[d], Word[e], and works[f]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.6.9 + - Deut.28.58 + b: + - Ps.68.4 + c: + - Rev.15.3-Rev.15.4 + d: + - Mal.1.11 + - Mal.1.14 + e: + - Ps.138.1-Ps.138.2 + f: + - Job.36.24 + - question: What is forbidden in the third commandment? + number: 55 + answer: >- + The third commandment forbiddeth all profaning or abusing of anything whereby + God maketh himself known[a]. + verses: + a: + - Mal.1.6-Mal.1.7 + - Mal.1.12 + - Mal.2.2 + - Mal.3.14 + - question: What is the reason annexed to the third commandment? + number: 56 + answer: >- + The reason annexed to the third commandment is, that however the breakers of + this commandment may escape punishment from men, yet the Lord our God will not + suffer them to escape his righteous judgment[a]. + verses: + a: + - 1Sam.2.12 + - 1Sam.2.17 + - 1Sam.2.22 + - 1Sam.2.29 + - 1Sam.3.13 + - Deut.28.58-Deut.28.59 + - question: Which is the fourth commandment? + number: 57 + answer: >- + The fourth commandment is, Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days + shalt thou labor, and do all thy work; but the seventh day is the sabbath of + the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy + daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger + that is within thy gates. For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the + sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord + blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.[a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.8-Exod.20.11 + - question: What is required in the fourth commandment? + number: 58 + answer: >- + The fourth commandment requireth the keeping holy to God such set times as he + hath appointed in his Word; expressly one whole day in seven, to be a holy sabbath + to himself[a]. + verses: + a: + - Deut.5.12-Deut.5.14 + - question: Which day of the seven hath God appointed to be the weekly sabbath? + number: 59 + answer: >- + From the beginning of the world to the resurrection of Christ, God appointed + the seventh day of the week to be the weekly sabbath; and the first day + of the week ever since, to continue to the end of the world, which is the Christian + sabbath[a]. + verses: + a: + - Gen.2.2-Gen.2.3 + - 1Cor.16.1-1Cor.16.2 + - Acts.20.7 + - question: How is the sabbath to be sanctified? + number: 60 + answer: >- + The sabbath is to be sanctified by a holy resting all that day[a], even from such + worldly employments and recreations as are lawful on other days[b]; and spending + the whole time in the public and private exercises of God's worship[c], except + so much as is to be taken up in the works of necessity and mercy[d]. + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.8 + - Exod.20.10 + - Exod.16.25-Exod.16.28 + b: + - Neh.13.15-Neh.13.19 + - Neh.13.21-Neh.13.22 + c: + - Luke.4.16 + - Acts.20.7 + - Ps.92 + - Isa.66.23 + d: + - Matt.12.1-Matt.12.13 + - question: What is forbidden in the fourth commandment? + number: 61 + answer: >- + The fourth commandment forbiddeth the omission or careless performance of the + duties required[a], and the profaning the day by idleness[b], or doing that which + is in itself sinful[c], or by unnecessary thoughts, words, or works, about our + worldly employments or recreations[d]. + verses: + a: + - Ezek.22.26 + - Amos.8.5 + - Mal.1.13 + b: + - Acts.20.7 + - Acts.20.9 + c: + - Ezek.23.38 + d: + - Jer.17.24-Jer.17.26 + - Isa.58.13 + - question: What are the reasons annexed to the fourth commandment? + number: 62 + answer: >- + The reasons annexed to the fourth commandment are, God's allowing us six days + of the week for our own employments[a], his challenging a special propriety + in the seventh, his own example, and his blessing the sabbath day[b]. + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.9 + b: + - Exod.20.11 + - question: Which is the fifth commandment? + number: 63 + answer: >- + The fifth commandment is, Honour thy father and thy mother; that thy days may + be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.[a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.12 + - question: What is required in the fifth commandment? + number: 64 + answer: >- + The fifth commandment requireth the preserving the honor, and performing the + duties, belonging to everyone in their several places and relations, as superiors,[a] + inferiors[b], or equals[c]. + verses: + a: + - Eph.5.21 + b: + - 1Pet.2.17 + c: + - Rom.12.10 + - question: What is forbidden in the fifth commandment? + number: 65 + answer: >- + The fifth commandment forbiddeth the neglecting of, or doing anything against, + the honor and duty which belongeth to everyone in their several places and relations + [a]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.15.4-Matt.15.6 + - Ezek.34.2-Ezek.34.4 + - Rom.13.8 + - question: What is the reason annexed to the fifth commandment? + number: 66 + answer: >- + The reason annexed to the fifth commandment is, a promise of long life and prosperity + (as far as it shall serve for God's glory and their own good) to all such as + keep this commandment[a]. + verses: + a: + - Deut.5.16 + - Eph.6.2-Eph.6.3 + - question: Which is the sixth commandment? + number: 67 + answer: The sixth commandment is, Thou shalt not kill.[a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.13 + - question: What is required in the sixth commandment? + number: 68 + answer: >- + The sixth commandment requireth all lawful endeavors to preserve our own life,[a] + and the life of others[b]. + verses: + a: + - Eph.5.28-Eph.5.29 + b: + - 1Kgs.18.4 + - question: What is forbidden in the sixth commandment? + number: 69 + answer: >- + The sixth commandment forbiddeth the taking away of our own life, or the life + of our neighbour, unjustly, or whatsoever tendeth thereunto[a]. + verses: + a: + - Acts.16.28 + - Gen.9.6 + - question: Which is the seventh commandment? + number: 70 + answer: The seventh commandment is, Thou shalt not commit adultery.[a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.14 + - question: What is required in the seventh commandment? + number: 71 + answer: >- + The seventh commandment requireth the preservation of our own and our neighbour's + chastity, in heart, speech, and behavior[a]. + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.7.2-1Cor.7.3,1Cor.7.5,1Cor.7.34,1Cor.7.36 + - 1Pet.3.2 + - question: What is forbidden in the seventh commandment? + number: 72 + answer: >- + The seventh commandment forbiddeth all unchaste thoughts, words, and actions + [a]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.15.19 + - Matt.5.28 + - Eph.5.3-Eph.5.4 + - question: Which is the eighth commandment? + number: 73 + answer: The eighth commandment is, Thou shalt not steal.[a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.15 + - question: What is required in the eighth commandment? + number: 74 + answer: >- + The eighth commandment requireth the lawful procuring and furthering the wealth + and outward estate of ourselves and others[a]. + verses: + a: + - Gen.30.30 + - 1Tim.5.8 + - Lev.25.35 + - Deut.22.1-Deut.22.5 + - Exod.23.4-Exod.23.5 + - Gen.47.14 + - Gen.47.20 + - question: What is forbidden in the eighth commandment? + number: 75 + answer: >- + The eighth commandment forbiddeth whatsoever doth, or may, unjustly hinder our + own, or our neighbour's, wealth or outward estate[a]. + verses: + a: + - Prov.21.17 + - Prov.23.20-Prov.23.21 + - Prov.28.19 + - Eph.4.28 + - question: Which is the ninth commandment? + number: 76 + answer: >- + The ninth commandment is, Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. + [a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.16 + - question: What is required in the ninth commandment? + number: 77 + answer: >- + The ninth commandment requireth the maintaining and promoting of truth between + man and man[a], and of our own and our neighbour's good name[b], especially in + witness bearing[c]. + verses: + a: + - Zech.8.16 + b: + - 3John.1.12 + c: + - Prov.14.5,Prov.14.25 + - question: What is forbidden in the ninth commandment? + number: 78 + answer: >- + The ninth commandment forbiddeth whatsoever is prejudicial to truth, or injurious + to our own, or our neighbour's, good name[a]. + verses: + a: + - 1Sam.17.28 + - Lev.19.16 + - Ps.15.3 + - question: Which is the tenth commandment? + number: 79 + answer: >- + The tenth commandment is, Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt + not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor + his ox, nor his ass, nor anything that is thy neighbour's.[a] + verses: + a: + - Exod.20.17 + - question: What is required in the tenth commandment? + number: 80 + answer: >- + The tenth commandment requireth full contentment with our own condition[a], + with a right and charitable frame of spirit toward our neighbour, and all that + is his[b]. + verses: + a: + - Heb.13.5 + - 1Tim.6.6 + b: + - Job.31.29 + - Rom.12.15 + - 1Tim.1.5 + - 1Cor.13.4-1Cor.13.7 + - question: What is forbidden in the tenth commandment? + number: 81 + answer: >- + The tenth commandment forbiddeth all discontentment with our own estate[a], + envying or grieving at the good of our neighbour[b], and all inordinate motions + and affections to anything that is his[c]. + verses: + a: + - 1Kgs.21.4 + - Esth.5.13 + - 1Cor.10.10 + b: + - Gal.5.26 + - Jas.3.14 + - Jas.3.16 + c: + - Rom.7.7-Rom.7.8 + - Rom.13.9 + - Deut.5.21 + - question: Is any man able perfectly to keep the commandments of God? + number: 82 + answer: >- + No mere man, since the fall, is able in this life perfectly to keep the commandments + of God,[a] but doth daily break them in thought, word, and deed[b]. + verses: + a: + - Eccl.7.20 + - 1John.1.8 + - 1John.1.10 + - Gal.5.17 + b: + - Gen.6.5 + - Gen.8.21 + - Rom.3.9-Rom.3.31,Rom.3.23 + - Jas.3.2-Jas.3.13 + - question: Are all transgressions of the law equally heinous? + number: 83 + answer: >- + Some sins in themselves, and by reason of several aggravations, are more heinous + in the sight of God than others[a]. + verses: + a: + - Ezek.8.6,Ezek.8.13,Ezek.8.15 + - 1John.5.16 + - Ps.78.17 + - Ps.78.32 + - Ps.78.56 + - question: What doth every sin deserve? + number: 84 + answer: >- + Every sin deserveth God's wrath and curse, both in this life, and that which + is to come[a]. + verses: + a: + - Eph.5.6 + - Gal.3.10 + - Lam.3.39 + - Matt.25.41 + - question: >- + What doth God require of us, that we may escape his wrath and curse, due to + us for sin? + number: 85 + answer: >- + To escape the wrath and curse of God, due to us for sin, God requireth of us + faith in Jesus Christ, repentance unto life[a], with the diligent use of all + the outward means whereby Christ communicateth to us the benefits of redemption + [b]. + verses: + a: + - Acts.20.21 + b: + - Prov.2.1-Prov.2.5 + - Prov.8.33-Prov.8.36 + - Isa.55.3 + - question: What is faith in Jesus Christ? + number: 86 + answer: >- + Faith in Jesus Christ is a saving grace[a], whereby we receive and rest upon + him alone for salvation, as he is offered to us in the gospel[b]. + verses: + a: + - Heb.10.39 + b: + - John.1.12 + - Isa.26.3-Isa.26.4 + - Phil.3.9 + - Gal.2.16 + - question: What is repentance unto life? + number: 87 + answer: >- + Repentance unto life is a saving grace[a], whereby a sinner, out of a true + sense of his sin[b], and apprehension of the mercy of God in Christ[c], doth, + with grief and hatred of his sin, turn from it unto God[d], with full purpose + of, and endeavour after, new obedience[e]. + verses: + a: + - Acts.11.18 + b: + - Acts.2.37-Acts.2.28 + c: + - Joel.2.12 + - Jer.3.22 + d: + - Jer.31.18-Jer.31.19 + - Ezek.36.31 + e: + - 2Cor.7.11 + - Isa.1.16-Isa.1.17 + - question: >- + What are the outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicateth to us the + benefits of redemption? + number: 88 + answer: >- + The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicateth 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[a]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.28.19-Matt.28.20 + - Acts.2.42 + - Acts.2.46-Acts.2.47 + - question: How is the Word made effectual to salvation? + number: 89 + answer: >- + The Spirit of God maketh the reading, but especially the preaching of the Word, + an effectual means of convincing and converting sinners, and of building them + up in holiness and comfort, through faith, unto salvation[a]. + verses: + a: + - Neh.8.8 + - 1Cor.14.24-1Cor.14.25 + - Acts.26.18 + - Ps.19.8 + - Acts.20.32 + - Rom.15.4 + - 2Tim.3.15-2Tim.3.17 + - Rom.10.13-Rom.10.17 + - Rom.1.16 + - question: >- + How is the Word to be read and heard, that it may become effectual to salvation? + number: 90 + answer: >- + That the Word may become effectual to salvation, we must attend thereunto with + diligence[a], preparation[b], and prayer[c]; receive it with faith and love[d], lay + it up in our hearts[e], and practice it in our lives[f]. + verses: + a: + - Prov.8.34 + b: + - 1Pet.2.1-1Pet.2.2 + c: + - Ps.119.18 + d: + - Heb.4.2 + - 2Thess.2.10 + e: + - Ps.119.11 + f: + - Luke.8.15 + - Jas.1.25 + - question: How do the sacraments become effectual means of salvation? + number: 91 + answer: >- + The sacraments become effectual means of salvation, not from any virtue in them, + or in him that doth administer them; but only by the blessing of Christ,[a] and + the working of his Spirit in them that by faith receive them[b]. + verses: + a: + - 1Pet.3.12 + - Matt.3.11 + - 1Cor.3.6-1Cor.3.7 + b: + - 1Cor.12.13 + - question: What is a sacrament? + number: 92 + answer: >- + A sacrament is an holy ordinance instituted by Christ; wherein, by sensible + signs, Christ, and the benefits of the new covenant, are represented, sealed, + and applied to believers[b]. + verses: + a: + - Gen.17.7 + - Gen.17.10 + - Exod.12 + - 1Cor.11.23 + - 1Cor.11.26 + - question: Which are the sacraments of the New Testament? + number: 93 + answer: >- + The sacraments of the New Testament are, Baptism[a], and the Lord's Supper + [b]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.28.19 + b: + - Matt.26.26-Matt.26.28 + - question: What is Baptism? + number: 94 + answer: >- + Baptism is a sacrament, wherein the washing with water in the name of the Father, + and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost[a], doth 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[b]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.28.19 + b: + - Rom.6.4 + - Gal.3.27 + - question: To whom is Baptism to be administered? + number: 95 + answer: >- + Baptism is not to be administered to any that are out of the visible church, + till they profess their faith in Christ, and obedience to him[a]; but the infants + of such as are members of the visible church are to be baptized[b]. + verses: + a: + - Acts.8.36-Acts.8.37 + - Acts.2.38 + b: + - Acts.2.38-Acts.2.39 + - Gen.17.10 + - Col.2.11-Col.2.12 + - 1Cor.7.14 + - question: What is the Lord's Supper? + number: 96 + 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[a]. + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.11.23-1Cor.11.26 + - 1Cor.10.16 + - question: What is required for the worthy receiving of the Lord's Supper? + number: 97 + answer: >- + It is required of them that would worthily partake of the Lord's Supper, that + they examine themselves of their knowledge to discern the Lord's body[a], of their + faith to feed upon him[b], of their repentance[c], love[d], and new obedience[e]; lest, + coming unworthily, they eat and drink judgment to themselves[e]. + verses: + a: + - 1Cor.11.28-1Cor.11.29 + b: + - 2Cor.13.5 + c: + - 1Cor.11.31 + d: + - 1Cor.10.16-1Cor.10.17 + e: + - 1Cor.5.7-1Cor.5.8 + f: + - 1Cor.11.28-1Cor.11.29 + - question: What is prayer? + number: 98 + answer: >- + Prayer is an offering up of our desires unto God[a], for things agreeable to + his will[b], in the name of Christ[c], with confession of our sins[d], and + thankful acknowledgement of his mercies.[e] + verses: + a: + - Ps.62.8 + b: + - 1John.5.14 + c: + - John.16.23 + d: + - Ps.32.5-Ps.32.6 + - Dan.9.4 + e: + - Phil.4.6 + - question: What rule hath God given for our direction in prayer? + number: 99 + answer: >- + The whole Word of God is of use to direct us in prayer[a]; but the special + rule of direction is that form of prayer which Christ taught his disciples, + commonly called The Lord's Prayer.[b] + verses: + a: + - 1John.5.14 + b: + - Matt.6.9-Matt.6.13 + - Luke.11.2-Luke.11.4 + - question: What doth the preface of the Lord's Prayer teach us? + number: 100 + answer: >- + The preface of the Lord's Prayer, which is, Our Father which art in heaven[a], + teacheth us to draw near to God with all holy reverence[a] and confidence, + as children to a father, able and ready to help us[b]; and that we should + pray with and for others[c]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.6.9 + b: + - Rom.8.15 + - Luke.11.13 + c: + - Acts.12.5 + - 1Tim.2.1-1Tim.2.2 + - question: What do we pray for in the first petition? + number: 101 + answer: >- + In the first petition, which is, Hallowed be thy name[a], we pray, that God would + enable us, and others, to glorify him in all that whereby he maketh himself + known[b]; and that he would dispose all things to his own glory[c]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.6.9 + b: + - Ps.67.2-Ps.67.3 + c: + - Ps.83 + - question: What do we pray for in the second petition? + number: 102 + answer: >- + In the second petition, which is, Thy kingdom come,[a] we pray, that Satan's kingdom + may be destroyed[b]; and that the kingdom of grace may be advanced[c], ourselves + and others brought into it, and kept in it[d]; and that the kingdom of glory + may be hastened[e]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.6.10 + b: + - Ps.68.1 + - Ps.68.18 + c: + - Rev.12.10-Rev.12.11 + d: + - 2Thess.3.1 + - Rom.10.1 + - John.17.9 + - John.17.20 + e: + - Rev.22.20 + - question: What do we pray for in the third petition? + number: 103 + answer: >- + In the third petition, which is, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven,[a] + we pray, that God, by his grace, would make us able and willing to know, obey, + and submit to his will in all things[b], as the angels do in heaven[c]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.6.10 + b: + - Ps.67 + - Ps.119.36 + - Matt.26.39 + - 2Sam.15.25 + - Job.1.21 + c: + - Ps.103.20-Ps.103.21 + - question: What do we pray for in the fourth petition? + number: 104 + answer: >- + In the fourth petition, which is, Give us this day our daily bread,[a] we pray + that of God's free gift we may receive a competent portion of the good things + of this life, and enjoy his blessing with them[b]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.6.11 + b: + - Prov.30.8-Prov.30.9 + - Gen.28.20 + - 1Tim.4.4-1Tim.4.5 + - question: What do we pray for in the fifth petition? + number: 105 + answer: >- + In the fifth petition, which is, And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our + debtors,[a] we pray that God, for Christ's sake, would freely pardon all our sins + [b]; which we are the rather encouraged to ask, because by his grace we are + enabled from the heart to forgive others[c]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.6.11 + b: + - Ps.51.1-Ps.51.2,Ps.51.7,Ps.51.9 + - Dan.9.17-Dan.9.19 + c: + - Luke.11.4 + - Matt.18.35 + - question: What do we pray for in the sixth petition? + number: 106 + answer: >- + In the sixth petition, which is, And lead us not into temptation, but deliver + us from evil,[a] we pray, that God would either keep us from being tempted to sin + [b], or support and deliver us when we are tempted[c]. + verses: + a: + - Matt.6.13 + b: + - Ps.19.13 + - Matt.26.41 + c: + - 2Cor.12.7-2Cor.12.8 + - question: What doth the conclusion of the Lord's Prayer teach us? + number: 107 + answer: >- + The conclusion of the Lord's Prayer, which is, For thine is the kingdom, and + the power, and the glory, for ever, Amen.[a] teacheth us to take our encouragement + in prayer from God only[b], and in our prayers to praise him, ascribing kingdom, + power, and glory to him[c]; and, in testimony of our desire, and assurance + to be heard, we say, Amen.[d] + verses: + a: + - Matt.6.13 + b: + - Dan.9.4,Dan.9.7-Dan.9.9,Dan.9.16-Dan.9.19 + c: + - 1Chr.29.10-1Chr.29.13 + d: + - 1Cor.14.16 + - Rev.22.20-Rev.22.21 +...