A double catechisme one more large, following the order of the common authorized catechisme, and an exposition thereof: now this second time published: the other shorter for the weaker sort: both set forth for the benefit of Christian friends and wel-willers. By Richard Bernard, Master of Arts, and preacher of Gods word at Worsop in Nottingham-shire. Large catechisme Bernard, Richard, 1568-1641. This text is an enriched version of the TCP digital transcription A09077 of text S113787 in the English Short Title Catalog (STC 1936). Textual changes and metadata enrichments aim at making the text more computationally tractable, easier to read, and suitable for network-based collaborative curation by amateur and professional end users from many walks of life. The text has been tokenized and linguistically annotated with MorphAdorner. The annotation includes standard spellings that support the display of a text in a standardized format that preserves archaic forms ('loveth', 'seekest'). Textual changes aim at restoring the text the author or stationer meant to publish. This text has not been fully proofread Approx. 84 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 25 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. EarlyPrint Project Evanston,IL, Notre Dame, IN, St. Louis, MO 2018 A09077 STC 1936 ESTC S113787 99849017 99849017 14145 2240896184

This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. Searching, reading, printing, or downloading EEBO-TCP texts is reserved for the authorized users of these project partner institutions. Permission must be granted for subsequent distribution, in print or electronically, of this EEBO-TCP Phase II text, in whole or in part.

 Early English books online text creation partnership. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 2, no. A09077) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 14145) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1475-1640 ; 699:06) A double catechisme one more large, following the order of the common authorized catechisme, and an exposition thereof: now this second time published: the other shorter for the weaker sort: both set forth for the benefit of Christian friends and wel-willers. By Richard Bernard, Master of Arts, and preacher of Gods word at Worsop in Nottingham-shire. Large catechisme Bernard, Richard, 1568-1641. [6], 43, [1] p. Printed by Iohn Legate, Cambridge : 1607. A revised version of: Bernard, Richard. A large catechisme (first published in STC 1955.5, with the short catechism. Both large and small catechisms are reprinted in STC 1953. Imperfect; lacking leaves C4-5. Reproduction of the original in Cambridge University Library. eng Church of England -- Catechisms. eebo A double catechisme, one more large, following the order of the common authorized catechisme, and an exposition thereof: now this second time publishe Bernard, Richard, 1607 50 14603 8 0 0 0 0 4 827.23 F The rate of 827.23 defects per 10,000 words puts this text in the F category of texts with 100 or more defects per 10,000 words. 2012-11 Assigned for keying and markup 2012-12 Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2013-05 Sampled and proofread 2013-05 Text and markup reviewed and edited 2014-03 Batch review (QC) and XML conversion

A Double Catechisme , one more large , following the order of the common authorized Catechisme , and an exposition thereof : now this second time published : the other shorter for the weaker sort : both set forth for the benefit of Christian friends and wel-willers .

By Richard Bernard , Master of Arts , and Preacher of Gods word at Worsop in Nottingham-shire .

1. TIM. 4. 1. 2.

I charge thee before God , and before the Lord Iesus Christ , which shall iudge the quicke and dead , at his appearing , and in his kingdome , preach the word , be instant in season , and out of season .

r. Pet. 2. 2.

As new-borne babes desire that sincere milke of the word , that ye may grow thereby .

CAMBRIDGE , Printed by Iohn Legate . 1607.

To the right Worshipfull the towardly young Gentleman , and of great good hopes , M. William Cavendish , sonne and heire to the right Honorable William , Lord Cavendish , increase of all true honour and happines is most hartily wished .

RIGHT Worshipfull , it is written of one , a kings sonne , that he asked 3. things at Gods hands , outward prosperitie , inward comforts , and such glorie as shold be neither false nor fained . What more to be happy ? The first of these you haue by birth , and your parents wealth & honor : the second , Salomon tels you , how you may haue , by the getting & keeping a good conscience , which is a continual feast : and the third is purchased for you by Christ , if you by faith can take hold of him , by whom ( which is the true and greatest glorie ) we are made the sonnes of God , and coheires with him of the Paradise of God , and the vnspeakable ioyes thereof . All these three must concurre to make a man blessed : no happinesse in the first without the second : no soundnesse in the second to abide without the third . Loose Christ , a dew conscience comforts : and outward goods and honour without inward health of grace , is an estate carnally of estimation , but indeed hopelesse of the Saints blessed condition . Great wealth , & noble birth , without the soules spirituall breath , is as a shippe vnder full saile in a tempestuous Sea without sterne or Pylote : a case most daungerous : more like it is there should be shipwracke , than that it should come in safety to the hauen . Your ship is not yet at the sea , you are but launching out , hitherto you haue lyen in harbour : ballance your soule with sound knowledge , and holy affections before you aduenture : take with you your prouision , and be sure you season your flesh with the salt of Gods word , lest it corrupt at sea , and you want necessaries , and be forced to go a shore before you come vnto your determined place .

Salomon telleth vs , that the young man which cheareth his heart vp in the dayes of his youth , to walke in the euill waies thereof , and in the sight of his eyes , must know , that for these things God will bring him to iudgement : and therefore he aduiseth him to remember his Creator in the dayes of his strength , before the time come , when he shall confesse , that sinne hath as much left him , as he it . Surely , Sir , if you betimes , as I hope you do , remember the Lord , and seeke him , as Dauid said to the child Salomon , he will be found of you : which he of his mercy graunt : but if you forsake him , he will forsake you ; which God of his goodnesse forbid . The aduancement of Ioseph amongst Pharaoes Princes , and Daniels honour aboue the great Bassaes of Babylon , may shew you the truth of the one : and that young mans miserable end , beautifull Absolon , and Dauids deare sonne , may ratifie the certaintie of the other . Gods fauour is the fountaine of blisse , and in those onely he delighteth that feare him .

The good tokens of your good affection towards me , and towards the preachers of Gods word , the loue you do shew to further the passage of the Gospell , both in word and liberall deeds , hath mooued me to offer this my labour vnto you : both to testifie my thankfulnesse , and to manifest vnto the world our good hopes of you , which I desire that you may daily occasion by holy fruites of obedience to be iustified of many , to Gods glory and your owne welfare .

The Lord Almightie protect you and that honorable house whereof you are , and enlarge the name thereof , as with earthly renowne , so euer much more with spirituall blessings , that it wishing well to the Israel of God , peace and mercie may be vpon it : and the louing countenance of God now shine vpon all therein , that hartily desire the welfare of Sion , and the peace of Ierusalem for euer .

Amen . Worsop , the 28. of Nouember . Your Worships euery way readie in all things in Christ Iesus , Richard Bernard .
The Catechisme .

HOW many things are needfull for you to vnderstand , that you may know both God and your selfe ?

These 6. things : I. rightly to conceiue of God what he is , by his word and workes : II. to vnderstand the creation : III. mans miserie by the fall : IV. our redemption : V. our sanctification : VI. the certaintie of our glorification .

Of God .

Who made yow ?

God . Esa. 42. 2. Gen. 26. 27.

What a one is God ?

God is a spirit . Joh. 4. 24. Holy . Exod. 15. 11. Iust. Exod. 34. 6. and Mercifull . Exod. 34. 7.

How many Gods are there ?

But onely one God , Deut. 6. 4. yet three persons , Mat. 3. 16. 1. Ioh. 5. 7.

Which are the three persons ?

The Father begetting , the Sonne begotten , and the Holy Ghost proceeding , 2. Cor. 13. 13 Mat. 28. 19. and these three are God . Ioh. 1. 1. 1. Ioh. 5. 7. Act. 5. 3. 4.

Which of these three became man ?

The second Person , Iesus Christ , both God and man . Esa. 9. 6. Heb. 2. 17.

Of our Creation .

Of what did God make man ?

His bodie was of dust , the womans of Adams ribbe , Gen. 2. 7.

What a one did God make him ?

Both good . Gen. 2. 31. holy and righteous . Gen 1. 26. Eph. 4. 28. Col. 3. 9.

What was then mans estate and happines ?

It was the state of innocencie , without sin or miserie , and to God was he acceptable , Gen. 1 27. 31. & 2. 25. & 1. 28.

Of mans fall and miserie .

Are you now such a one by birth , as he was by creation ?

Alas no : I am by nature full of sinne , Ps. 51. 5. Iob. 25. 4. 5. 6. Rom. 3. from vers. 9. to 19. and so most miserable . Iob 14. 1. 2. Rom. 5. 14. Eph. 2. 1. 2. 3. Rom. 3. 23. & 2. 8. 9. and to God detestable , Psal. 11. 5. Gal. 3. 10. Mat. 7. 23. & 25. 41.

What is sinne ?

The breaking of Gods commandements , by thought word , or deed . 1. Ioh. 3. 4.

How many commaundements are there ?

Tenne . Deut. 10. 4. diuided into two Tables . Deut. 4. 13.

Which be the commandements ?

I am the Lord thy God , &c. Exod. 20. Deut. 5. 6.

Do these ten commaund or forbid but onely what is there set downe in shew ?

No : they commaund or forbid , all the kinds contained vnder the same thing mentioned and all the causes , with occasions thereunto . 1. Ioh. 3. 15. Mat. 5. 28. 32.

Are they a prayer ?

No , nor so to be vsed : they are a rule for me to liue after , and do teach me my duty to God , and my neighbour . Deut. 6. & 31. 12. Psal. 119. 105. Eccles. 12. 13. Mat. 22. 37. 39.

What is your duty towards God ?

My dutie towards God , is to beleeue in him , to feare him , and to loue him , &c. 2. Chron. 20. 20. Eccles. 12. 13. Mat. 22. 37.

What is your duty towards your neighbour ?

It is to loue my neighbour as my selfe , &c. Mat. 22 39. Rom. 13. 9.

Can ye keepe the commaundements , and not offend God nor your neighbour ?

No : I breake them euery day , in thought , word , and deed , hating both God and my neighbour by nature . Ps. 14. 1. 2. 3. Rom. 8. 7. & 1. 30. 2. Cor. 3. 5. Tit. 3. 3.

What is then now your state , and what deserue you by thus offending God ?

I am in the state of corruption and do deserue Gods curse , which is eternall destruction of bodie and soule . Deut. 27. 26. Mat. 25. 41. 46. Gal. 3. 10.

Of mans redemption .

What are you in this case to do ?

To cry vnto God for mercie , and seeke for deliuerance . Luk. 15. 17. Psal. 51. 1. 2. &c.

Are you of your selfe able , or is there any good in you to moue God , to set you free ?

No indeed , Rom. 3. 10. & 7. 18. Luk. 17. 10. 2. Cor. 4. 4. Eph. 2. 8. 9.

Then who doth redeeme you ?

Onely Iesus Christ , Rom. 7. 25 2. Cor. 5. 21 Rom. 5. 19. Gal. 2. 20. & 3. 13.

What is Iesus Christ ?

He is the eternall Sonne of God , Mat. 17. 5. Heb. 1. 23. a King to gouerne vs , Ps. 2. 6. Mat. 28. 18. a priest to offer for vs , Ps. 110. 4. And a Prophet to teach vs , Deut. 18. 18. Esa. 61. 1. Mat. 17. 5.

What beleeue you concerning him in the Articles of the Creed ?

I do beleeue , that he was conceiued by the holy Ghost , &c.

What is this to you ?

I do perswade my selfe hereby , that his puritie is for my corruption , his obedience for my transgression , his death for my debt , and his ascension for my eternall saluation . 1. Cor. 1. 30. Phil. 3. 20.

But as God made all , will so Iesus Christ also saue all ?

No verily , many shall be damned , few shal be saued , Mat. 7. 13. 14. onely the elect , which take hold of Christ by a lively faith . Ioh. 3. 16. 36. Mar. 16. 16.

What is this liuely faith ?

It is a true perswasion of my heart , grounded vpon Gods promises , Eph. 3. 17. Rom , 4. 21. that Iesus Christ is giuen to me , Ioh. 3. 16. and the merits of his death and passion , are as truly mine , as if I my selfe had wrought them . 2. Cor. 5. 21. Rom. 8. 1.

How come you by this faith ?

From my effectuall calling by the word preached , and the worke of Gods spirit . Act. 13. 48. Rom. 10. 14. 15. Eph. 1. 13.

Where is set downe the summe of your becefe ?

In my Creed , I beleeue in God the Father Almightie . &c.

Are these a prayer , or so to be vsed ?

No : it teacheth me what to beleeue concerning God and his church .

What good hath Gods Church , the true beleeuers aboue the rest of mankind ?

They are in the state of grace , they haue communion with Christ , and one with another , the forgiuenesse of sinnes , the glorious resurrection of the bodie , and life euerlasting .

Of sanctification .

How may it appeare , that you haue this faith , and also these benefites ?

By my sanctification .

Who doth sanctifie you ?

The holy Ghost , Rom. 15. 16.

What is sanctification ?

Jt is a making new of the whole man , whereby he daily dyeth to sinne , and increaseth in holinesse and righteousnesse , Eph. 4. 23. 24. Gal. 5. 24. 1. Thes. 4. 1.

What grace proceedes from this sanctification ?

True repentance , leauing that which is ill with hatred , and performing new obedience with gladnesse of heart continually , Ier. 31. 19. Act. 26. 20. Ps. 119. 10. 113. 115. 136. 14. 34. 35. 44.

What estate now stand you in , being sanctified and penitent ?

I am in the blessed estate of grace , wherein if I continue , I shall inherite eternall life , Tit. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Rom. 11. 22. Mat. 10 22. 2. Tim. 4. 8.

Why hath God thus made , redeemed , sanctified , and hitherto preserued you ?

To serue him truly all the dayes of my life , Eph. 2. 10. Tit. 2. 11. 12. Luk. 1. 74. 75.

How must God be serued ?

Onely after his will reuealed in hss written word , Deut. 30. 8. 10. and 4. 2. 2. Cor. 4. 6.

Of our strengthening in the state of grace , for the certainty of our glorification .

Js it needfull for such as are elected , and once called , iustified , and sanctified , that they should continue still in vsing meanes to saluation ?

Yea truly : else they will fall away , Pro. 29. 18. 2. Chron. 15. 2. Heb. 3. 12. 13.

What things must you continue in to assure your selfe of saluation , and to grow strong in the way of life ?

Jn the knowledge of Gods word , Psal. 11. 2. Act. 2. 42. 2. Pet. 1. 19. Ioh. 10. 27. 28. in faith , Joh. 3. 36. in loue to the godly , Ioh. 13 35. 1. Ioh. 3. 14. in obedience , Ezech. 36. 26. Psal. 15. 5. Ier. 32. 39. 40. in patient suffering for Christ . Rom. 8. 17. Iam. 1. 12. in a longing after Christs comming , 2. Tim. 4. 8. in sinceritie without hypocrisie , which will appeare by my appealing to God in these things , Ioh. 21. 15.

Of the Sacraments .

Hath God giuen any helpes , and commaunded farther any other meanes besides the word , for the strengthening of vs herein ?

A. Yes , these two : Sacraments , and Prayer .

What is a Sacrament ?

An outward signe and seale of invisible graces .

How do the Sacraments strengthen you ?

By a reuerent vsing and meditating of them rightly vnderstood , as signes representing Christ , and his benefites , and sure seales of his couenant with vs , Gen. 9. 9. to 18. and 17. 9. 10.

How many Sacraments are there ?

Onely two : Baptisme , and the Lords Supper , 1. Cor. 10. 1. 2. 3. 4. Mat. 28. 19. & 26. 29. 27. 1. Cor. 11. 23. 24. 25.

What is the signe , and the thing signified in Baptisme ?

The signe is water , and the grace is the bloud of Christ , by which I am washed from my sinnes , Act. 2. 38. & 22. 16.

What are the signes and things signified in the Lords Supper ?

The signes are the bread and wine : the things signified , are the bodie & bloud of Christ , 1. Cor. 11. 23. 24. 25.

Why come you to receiue ?

To strengthen my faith , and to keepe in remembrance Christ his death , till his comming againe , Rom. 4. 11. 1. Cor. 11. 26.

What ought you to do before you come ?

Prepare my selfe by examination , 1. Cor. 11. 28.

What ought you to come with , to the Sacrament ?

With foure things : 1. knowledge both of my miserie , Gods mercie , and the doctrine of the Sacrament . 2. with faith in Iesus Christ , Heb. 11. 6. 3. with repentance for all my sinnes , Esa. 1. 10. 11. 14. 15. 16. 4. with heartie loue vnto my neighbor , Mat. 5. 23.

What if you come vnprepared without these ?

I come vnworthily , I am guiltie of the body and bloud of Christ , 1. Cor. 11. 27. I do eare and drinke my owne damnation , vers. 29. God may punish me , vers. 40. and the diuell may enter into me , as he did vnto Iudas , and bring me to destruction of bodie and soule , Ioh 13. 27.

Of Prayer .

What is Prayer ?

It is a right , heartie , and faithfull request made vnto God , in the name of Iesus Christ , 1. Ioh. 5. 14. Rom. 8. 26. Iam. 1. 6. Ioh. 14. 14. & 15. 16. Mat. 3. 17.

Can or doth euery one pray , that vttereth words , and vseth a forme of prayer ?

It is a speciall gift to Gods children , and such onely pray , as haue knowledge what to aske , a hearty desire in asking , and faith to beleeue .

What direction of prayer haue you ?

The same which our Sauiour Christ taught his disciples , Our Father which art in heauen , hallowed be thy name . Thy kingdome come . Thy will be done in earth , as it is in heauen . Giue vs this day our daily bread : and forgiue vs our trespasses , as we forgiue them that trespasse against vs . And lead vs not into temptation : but deliuer vs from euill . Amen .

What desirest thou of God in this prayer ?

I desire my Lord God our heauenly Father who is the giuer of all goodnesse , to send his grace vnto me , and to all people , that we may worship him , serue him , and obey him ; as we ought to do . And I pray vnto God that he will send vs al things that be needfull , both for our soules and bodies , and that he will be mercifull vnto vs , and forgiue vs our sinnes , and that it will please him to saue and defend vs in all dangers ghostly and bodily , and that he will keepe vs from all sinne and wickednesse , and from our ghostly enemie , and from euerlasting death . And this I trust he will do of his mercie and goodnesse , through our Lord Iesus Christ : and therefore I say , Amen . So be it .

The first part of Catechisme . Of new birth .

WHat is your name ?

Channauel , God is gracious to vs . Benalleuel . Loue wholy the Lord with the heart .

Who gaue you this name ?

My Godfathers and my Godmothers , who with my father , brought me to the Minister , into the congregation , to be baptized , and were especiall witnesses of the same , and professours of my faith and obedience to God for me .

Why were you baptized ?

That I might receiue a badge of my Christian religion , and be admitted into the Church , to liue amongst the professors of Christs name , & to be receiued of them , and accounted as a member of Christ , the child of God , and an inheritour of the kingdome of heauen , vntill I shew the contrarie .

Whereby may you now be certaine , that you are such a one indeed ?

If I do what my Godfathers and Godmothers did make profession of for me .

What did your Godfathers and Godmothers make profession of for you ?

They did professe three things in my name : the first was the forsaking of the diuell , and al his workes , the pompes , and the vanities of this wicked world , and all the sinfull lusts of the flesh .

What were you then bound to them , that you haue promised to forsake them ?

Yea verily , I am a bondslaue to Sathan , by the corruption of my nature , prone to all vice , hauing the seed of all sinne in me , and do hate both God and my neighbour .

How can you then forsake this wofull state , and cease from any euill , being thus bound and prone thereunto ?

Not by any naturall power in or of my selfe , but onely by the grace of God , when it is giuen vnto me .

Are you sure you haue forsaken them , are you not deceiued ?

I am not deceiued : for I hate vnfainedly , the workes of the diuell , the worlds vanitie , all the vngodly manners of euery man : and I labour by all good meanes , to die to all sinne daily , louing the word of God , following it and all godly examples , indeauoring to kill speedily euery ill motion , but cherishing the good in my heart , by meditation , vowes , fasting , and prayer .

But can you tell me , what are the workes of the diuell , the worlds vanitie , and the ill motions of the heart ?

Whatsoeuer I , or any other , do thinke , speake or do , against the will of God reuealed in his word written .

What hath mooued you to forsake the diuel , the world , and the flesh ?

For that I haue learned , and do well perceiue , by knowledge from the word and mine owne experience , that these three , be the onely malicious , spirituall , powerfull , subtill , and continuall enemies of my eternall felicitie .

What are the other things , that your Godfathers and Godmothers promised for you ?

Secondly , was the beleeeuing of all the twelue articles of my christian faith , and the third was the learning diligently of Gods holy will and commaundements , and an obedient walking in the same , all the dayes of my life .

Where is this will of God to be learned ?

Not from mine owne fantasie , mans wisedome , traditions or examples of men , but onely out of the Scripture , which is the word written , by his Prophets and Apostles , in the bookes of the old and new Testament , which is sufficient , to teach vs all things necessarie , that we need to beleeue , for our saluation .

What reasons haue you to perswade your selfe , that this Scripture which we hold , is the true word of God , and none other ?

First , from the pen-men , being many and most of them simple and plaine persons , who doe mutually consent , setting downe their own faults without partialitie . Secondly , from the matter , aboue naturall mens reach ; of mans creation , resurrection , last iudgement , and of the Trinitie in vnitie , prophecies also fulfilled in all circumstances . Thirdly , from the manner of speaking , peremptorily reproouing , or allowing , without sinister respects . Fourthly , from the effect , binding conscience , conuerting men , to hate euen life it selfe , for Gods glorie . Fifthly , the miraculous preseruation thereof , with punishment of such , as seeke to ouerthrowe either it , or the professours thereof . Lastly , that it ascribes all glorie to God , the maine end which it aymeth at .

What meanes must you vse to come to the sauing knowledge of this word ?

1. Daily reading . 2. Learning the Catechisme , the grounds of religion . 3. Hearing the word with mind and affection , both read and preached publikely , by Gods ministers . 4. Meditation in mind , to vnderstand the doctrine gathered , and in heart to affect the vse made , after I haue either read or heard it . 5. Conference by asking of superiours and Ministers , by reasoning with equals , and teaching inferiours , all in reuerence and humilitie , to vnderstand that I know not , to be resolued in that I doubt of , and to call to memorie , what I haue forgotten . 6. Continuall prayer with practise of it in my particular calling .

Do you thinke you are thus bound to forsake the diuell , the world , and the flesh , to beleeue in God , to learne to know and do his will , as they haue promised for you ?

Yes verily , and by Gods helpe so will I indeauour to do , or else were I vnthankfull to God my Father , that hath called me into the state of saluation , making me his child : and also vnmindfull of my sureties , that haue so bound themselues for me .

But tell me if any vndergo such a charge , how can any be suretie to God for you , that you should doe as they haue promised for you ?

Being assured by faith , that the seed of the faithfull are blessed , they iudging me charitably to bee one of them , did promise by the grace of God belonging vnto me in Christ , and the meanes which they would vse , J should performe the same .

What are the meanes which they haue premised to vse ?

That I should be taught so soone as I shall be able to learne , what a solemne vow , promise and profession , I. haue made by them . II. That they will exhort me to heare sermons , and to learn all things , which a Christian ought to know for his soules health : but especially the principles of religion , conteined in these foure : the Creed , the Lords prayer , the ten Commaundements , and the doctrine of the Sacraments .

The second part .

Let vs then see , whether they haue vsed those meanes , and how you haue profited , rehearse the articles of your beleefe ?

I beleeue in God the Father almightie , &c.

What do you chiefly learne out of these articles of your Christian faith ?

1. J learne to beleeue , that there is a God , to beleeue God , and also in him . 2. That he is but one in substance , yet distinguished into three , the Father , Sonne , and holy Ghost , which distinction is in person , propertie , and manner of working . 3. That this God hath a Church , to which onely he is truly knowne , and by the same sincerely worshipped .

How can you be perswaded that there is a God ?

1. By his created workes declaring , 2. by my conscience accusing : 3. by iudgements terrifying : 4. by order obserued in all things : 5. by heathen authors consenting : 6. By the Scripture confidently auouching the same .

What is God ? we cannot tell , ther fore tell me what a one he is ?

A spirituall substance , most holy , and of glorious maiestie , infinite in his being , as euery where present ; in wisedome , foreseeing & rightly disposing all things : in power , doing what he list : in iustice , punishing whom he will iustly : and in mercie , to saue whom he pleaseth .

How do you behold and conceiue of this God ?

Not by any bodily shape , but spiritually , by his word , as he hath therein manifested himselfe , and by his workes , of creation , preseruation and gouerning euery thing , according to his foreknowledge and appointment therein , to his owne glorie .

What beleeue you concerning God the Father ?

That he is God Almightie , in order the first person in the Trinitie , begetting the Sonne from euerlasting , of his whole substance : maker of heauen and earth , men and Angels , and all things else very good , onely by his word , of nothing , at the beginning , in sixe dayes , and still by his prouidence preserues the same , for my benefite .

What was man especially made of ?

Man consists of bodie and soule , the first mans bodie was made of the dust of the earth , but our bodies come by generation , and are with his mortall : and both his and all our soules by inspiration , and are immortall .

What estate good man in by creation , and what a one did God make him ?

In the estate of innocencie , void of all sin , free from any punishment : and was made after Gods image , that is , holy and righteous ; hauing perfect knowledge of God and his will , as much as was needfull for him , and also readinesse of will , in heartie affection , with bodily strength , to fulfill the same : and had withall the rule of all Gods creatures , made for his benefite .

How then came you into this wretched estate ?

By the fall of Adam and Eue , my first parents , who wilfully disobeyed God , by the diuels enticement , infidelitie and pride possessing their hearts , and who stood and fell in the roome of all mankind .

How can our soules be sinfull , that come not by propagation , but by inspiration ?

1. For that his soule was deputie for all soules of men naturally begotten . 2. Because man sinned , and man , is not man , before body & soule be knit together , which being conioyned , become together , as man , partaker of mans fal & corruption

Doth any thing of that image of God remaine yet in vs ?

Yes : 1. In the mind a certaine generall corrupt knowledge of nature , concerning good and euill , to make vs inexcusable , before God . 2. In the conscience a power to reproue and represse in part vnbridled affections . 3. In will , though a free , yet a weake choice , in euery naturall and ciuill action .

What euils do we receiue by this fall ?

1. In the mind ignorance of heauenly things vnaptnesse to learne them , or to iudge of them aright , but apt to learne euill , and to inuent the same . 2. In conscience impurenesse to excuse sin , not to accuse , beeing dead or benummed : and to accuse for well or ill doing . 3. In will , want of power , to will any true good , but to resist it , and onely to will that which is euill . 4. In affection to hate good , and runne after ill . 5. In bodie fitnesse to begin sinne , by receiuing outward obiects and occasions theteof by the senses , and also to execute the same , when the heart hath conceiued it , in word and deed , and this is called Originall sinne , which is in euery man .

Do all men continue in this sinfull and cursed estate for euer ?

No : but onely the reprobate , whome God hath not decreed to saue , to manifest his iustice : for the elect , being predestinate to eternall life , are in this world in their appointed time called effectually , through Gods word and his spirit , iustified , and sanctified , and so shall continue , in this estate of grace , to be glorified , for that God will also shew his mercie , and all for his owne glorie .

Are none of the reprobate , euor in the estate of grace and Gods fauour ?

No verily ; though many of them , endued with the common gifts of the spirit , may in outward appearance , for a time , seeme to be of the elect , in the iudgement of the Church .

Can any of the elect then be euer before God , in the state of damnation ?

No indeed : albeit both before the conuersion , and also after they be called , they falling by infirmitie , and lying a time in their sinne , may appeare in shew , to the Church , to be none of the elect : yet can they not fall away , wholy nor finally .

May not men then liue as they list , sithence he being a reprobate , cannot be saued , or an elect , he cannot be damned ?

Not so : for that one elected cannot but vse the meanes , which are ordained for him to walke in , to make his election sure to himselfe : which whoso doth not , cannot be saued .

What beleeue you concerning God the Son ?

That he is God , the second Person in the Trinitie , Christ Iesus , the onely naturall Sonne begotten of the Father , our Lord , made man , conceiued and sanctified by the holy Ghost , ioyning two natures into one person , borne , according to the promise , of the Virgin Marie , who perfectly fulfilled the lawe , humbled and suffered vnder Pontius Pylate , was crucified , bearing vpon him Gods curse , and hellish torments , who died and was buried , and being a while held captiue of death in the graue , he was exalted , and victoriously rose againe the third day , and is ascended vp into heauen , and there he sits on the right hand of God his Father , hauing all power in heauen and earth to rule and gouerne his Church , where his manhood doth and shall at all times , ( though in his Godhead he be present with me euer ) remaine , vntill he shall come from thence , to iudge vs all , here on earth , both quicke and dead at the last day : which day cannot be nowe farre off .

Why should he neede to be both God and man ?

That he might be the onely Mediator betwixt God and man , to satisfie for sinne , which neither the manhood by deseruing , nor Godhead by dying alone could do .

Why is he called Christ ?

To declare , that he was the promised Messias , and to signifie his offices , that he was annointed , not with materiall oyle , but with the gift of the spirit without measure , to be our King , Priest and Prophet : from which name we are called Christians , and are by him Kings , Priests , and Prophets .

How is Christ a King ?

He is King , not onely as God , but as hee is the head gouerning the Church , without any generall Vicar vnder him , by his word and spirit immediatly , making lawes , and ordeining Ministers to the gathering together and preseruation thereof . 2. By destroying Sathan , his Angels , vnbeleeuers , idolaters , heretickes , Antichrist , and the whole kingdome of darknesse .

How is Christ a priest ?

1. By satisfying for all the sinnes of the elect , by his passion and fulfilling of the lawe . 2. For that he maketh prayer continually to God for them .

How is Christ a Prophet ?

By immediatly reuealing from his Father , his word and meanes of saluation contained in the same .

Why is he called Iesus ?

To signifie that he is a Sauiour to euery true beleeuer : neither is there any other meanes of ourselues , or by any other , either in part or whole to obtaine saluation , but onely by him alone .

Why is he called Lord ?

Because we owe all homage and dutie in ioue to him , for our redemption .

What beleeue you concerning the holy Ghost ?

That he is God the third person in the Trinitie , proceeding from the Father and the Sonne who spake by the Prophets , dwelling in the faithfull , sanctifying them in part in this life , working by the word and holy motions , an vtter loathing of sinne , and a heartie loue of righteousnesse , leading them into all truth , perswading them of Gods fauour , teaching them in prayer , bearing them vp in temptation , quickening , renewing , and increasing his gifts in them : that they may know , beleeue , loue , and do that which is good : which he will perfect fully in the life to come .

Why did this God thus make , redeeme , sanctifie , and hereto preserue you ?

That I might prayse his name , in liuing godly , righteously , and soberly , according to all his commandements , in my calling , in all things , whatsoeuer my estate be , in this present world .

What do you beleeue concerning the Church ?

That it is but one mysticall bodie , whether militant or triumphant , visible or invisible , in heauen , or in earth , being a companie of the Lords elect , holy by Christ , catholike , gathered of the dispersed abroad , and hauing speciall prerogatiues aboue the rest of mankind , communion with Christ , and one with another by the bond of the spirit , the forgiuenesse of all sinnes , the ioyfull resurrection of the bodie , and life euerlasting , wherof I beleeue my selfe to be one , and therfore , that the same things belong also vnto me .

What are the markes of the true Church here on earth ?

Inwardly faith and loue , outwardly ( besides the vncertaine notes , of vniuersalitie , antiquitie , and consent ) these two : Christs word truly preached , his Sacraments rightly administred , whereto adde , faithfull prayer , and holy discipline .

Js the Church of Rome a true Church of Christ ?

No : but of Antichrist the Pope , the chiefe teacher of the doctrine of diuels .

What reason haue you to disallow that religion ?

For that it is a false religion . I. The author is the diuell . II. The meanes vsed to vphold it , are vnlawfull : 1. deceiued Councels . 2. vnwritten verities , and forged authors : 3. falsifying the Fathers : 4. corrupting Scripture , by adding thereto . 5. by taking from it , by false interpreting : 6. reteyning the people in ignorance , by forbidding to studie the word , and teaching it in an vnknowne tongue : 7. pretending reuelations , and shewing lying miracles . 8. counterfeit holinesse . 9. bloudie persecution . III. The matter of their religion is vntruthes , idolatrie , heresie and nouelties inuented by man . IV. The forme in the seruice ridiculous , by foolish gestures : carnall , by fleshly pompes and delights , their worship is by hypocrisie . V. The end to aduance men , by worshipping of Saints , and extolling mans power and merits . VI. The benefite gotten therby is nothing , because it keepes a man in the estate of damnation : and alloweth the breach of all the ten Commaundements . 1. To feare God by mens doctrines . 2. To worship Images . 3. Magicke and coniuring . 4. Idol-seruice . 5. Treason against Christian Princes . 6. Assoyles for murtherers . 7. Stewes , and restraint of mariage . 8. Wages for no lawfull labour , to Masse-mongers , and for deceites . 9. To breake an oath to a Christian made lawfully . 10. That concupiscence is no sinne . 7. Gods iudgements , against many of the most fierie professours thereof which is neuer seene to happen to zealous and constant professours of the truth .

What must be done to maintaine the Church and to ouerthrow heresie , that destroyes the foundation , errours , corrupting religion , scismes , breaking the peace of the Church , and vices , stayning our profession ?

1. To cleaue onely to the written word , which is both in time before , and in authoritie aboue the Church , to iudge all controuersies in religion . 2. To call sufficient men and ordaine them Ministers to teach , allowing necessarie maintenance ; but suffering no insufficient to creepe in , or to abide still : neither the able to liue idlely , by carelesnes , pride , or couetousnesse . 3. That there be a godly order established and peaceably kept of euery one , without giuing offence . 4. That there be a holy and right vse continually of true discipline , to admonish , suspend , and excommunicate obstinate offenders whosoeuer they be .

Are not the articles of your beleefe a prayer ?

No : but onely a summe of the Gospell : which is one part of Gods word , containing the promises of saluation by Christ , and is also a rule by which I must examine my faith .

What meane you by faith ?

Not faith to worke miracles , which is past : nor historicall , onely beleeuing that to be true which God saith : nor temporarie , to know , professe , and to teach Christ , feare to commit sinne , sorrow after , to make satisfaction , to destroy the wicked , to make many prayers , wishing heauen , and to liue , for a time , in shew honestly , yet out of Christ : but iustifying faith is here meant .

What is iustifying faith ?

It is a gracious and true perswasion in my heart , grounded vpon Gods promises concerning Christ , whereby I do apply him and all his benefits to my selfe , being assured , that he is my wisedom , strength , righteousnesse , holinesse , and redemption , and that what he hath done , it is as well done for me , as for any other : and so is mine , as if my selfe had done it .

How came you by this faith ?

By the holy Ghost , working the same inwardly by the outward ministerie of the Gospell preached ordinarily , & is by the same word , Sacraments , and Prayer , confirmed , continued , and increased .

What prosite reape you by this beleefe ?

I a wretched sinner in my selfe , being pardoned of sinne , and Christ giuen to me ; am in him the adopted sonne of God , and righteous before him , my heart purged , my conscience quieted , my imperfect workes do please him , all crosses are for comfort and further to saluation : holy Angels tend vpon me , heauen is mine inheritance I am set at libertie from the curse of the lawe , Sathan , the world , and fleshly lusts , without feare of death , damnation , and hell fire .

Hath euery one this faith , and so these benefites ?

No : but onely such as shewe repentance , the fruite of faith .

What is repentance ?

It is a true turning of my mind , will , and heart , wholly from the world , the flesh and diuell , vnto God , with full purpose to attend carefully to the counsell of his word and spirit , and through the whole course of my life , readily and constantly endeauour to follow the same .

What are the true tokens of this true repentance ?

1. A continuall striuing of the flesh and spirit . 2. A hatred of my former vanities , auoyding occasion , companie , counsell , or example to ill , with loue vnfained to the contrarie . 3. Increase of peace in conscience : with comfort in affection for righteousnesse sake . 4. A ioyfull expecting and wishing Christs comming to iudgement .

May not a man that truly repenteth , fall afterwards ?

Yes indeed , and into the same sinne , or some other .

How then may a man be perswaded , that his repentance was then true before ?

1. If this be of infirmitie , feeling before , and in the committing a dislike thereof : for after true repentance sinne is neuer wholy committed . 2. If that Godly sorrow follow , which is not either for earthly shame , temporall punishments , hellish torments , or losse of heauen : but for displeasing God so mercifull a Father : and this is called renewed repentance .

How should this appeare to be true ?

1. By an vtter loathing and condemning my selfe for the sinne newly committed , with desire and perswasion of pardon . 2. A godly anger & burning zeale against my selfe , with taking reuenge , vowing and practising strictly the contrary vertue for offending . 3. A watchfull care and continuall feare , lest I fall afterwards at any time againe into the same .

What may comfort a troubled conscience ?

These things : 1. That God can pardon any sinne . 2. That he will by promise made , pardon euery penitent . 3. That he which feeleth a true desire to leaue sinne , and to please God ; is bound to beleeue his sinnes are both pardonable and pardoned . 4. That doubting of saluation , with feare to offend God , is a signe of saluation . 5. No condemnation to such as are in Christ , and therefore their sinnes cannot damne them . 6. Iustification must not be iudged after sanctification , there is no perfection here , and the best children of God haue grieuously fallen , and haue felt this sting of conscience . 7. The assurance of saluation must not be iudged as men feele assurance in affliction , but by the stabilitie of Gods promises , from former comforts and tokens of grace , but in trouble from present desires onely .

The third part .

You said , that your Godfathers and Godmothers did promise for you , that you should keepe Gods commaundements , tell me how many there be ?

Ten , and are diuided into two tables .

What doth the first table teach you ?

The dutie which I owe vnto God in holinesse , whome I must loue , with all my heart , with all my mind , and with all my soule , and with all my strength , set downe in the foure first commandements , containing the matter , manner , end , and time of Gods worship .

What doth the second Table teach you ?

The dutie which I owe vnto my neighbor , which is euery one in righteousnes , whom I must loue , as my selfe , set downe in the sixe last Commaundements , containing his dignitie , life , bodie , goods , credit , and more spiritually all of them .

Q : Which be the Commaundements ?

The same which God spake in the 20. of Ezodus , saying , I am the Lord thy God , which brought thee out of the land of Egypt , out of the house of bondage , which is no commaundement but the preface vnto them .

What is the first commandement ?

A , Thou shalt haue none other Gods but me .

What doth this Commaundement teach you ?

To make choice of one , and the true God , to be my God , and not to take that for God , which is not God by nature : the occasion whereof was the lusting after strange gods .

What are the things forbidden by this Commaundement ?

Ignorance of God and the truth , not to pray , distrust of God , impatiencie , to feare , loue , or ioy in the creature more then in the Creatour , to deny God , or his word , power , presence , iustice o● mercie , openly or secretly in heart : securitie without feare of God . The contrarie is commaunded .

What is the second Commaundement ?

Thou shalt not make to thy selfe any graven image , &c.

What doth this Commaundement teach you ?

I must neither worship false Gods , nor this true God with false worship : but in spirit and truth as his word onely teacheth . The occasion of this Comman was our foolish desire of a carnall worship , and a false conceipt , to be able to prescribe a manner of worship to God of our selues .

What things are hereby forbidden ?

Idolatrie , picturing of God , or Christ , Papistrie , wil-worship , good intents without warrant , our owne fantasies , mens traditions , worship of Images , pilgrimages : not to destroy errors , heresies , and monuments of idolatrie . The contrarie is commaunded .

What is the third commaundement ?

Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vaine , &c.

What doth this commaundement teach you ?

Not to bereaue God of , his honour that is due vnto him : but in all things to giue him his due glorie . The occasion of this commanndement was our readinesse to abuse God , his name , word , and workes .

What things are hereby forbidden ?

To thinke or speake of God , of his word , or workes lightly or contemptuously , without reuerence : to sweare by any thing but by God : or by him , without a calling , in our ordinarie talke , where neither Gods glorie , our brothers saluation nor magistrate requireth it : to sweare falsely . So blasphemie , witchcraft , coniuring , and cursing : to denie the knowne truth : to professe pietie , and liue wickedly : the contrarie is commaunded .

What is the fourth commaundement ?

Remember that thou keepe holy the Sabbath day , &c.

What doth this Commaundement teach you ?

That euery day in the weeke I prepare my selfe to keepe the Lords day holy , that when it comes it be not prophaned , nor the publike worship of God letted , but furthered by me and mine . The occasion of this commaundement , our aptnesse to fall from God , without daily meanes be vsed .

What things are hereby forbidden ?

To do vnnecessarie labours without godlinesse and charitie , fayres , iourneys , or vaine sports eating and drinking , that may hinder deuotion : not to heare Gods word preached , or to heare carelesly , sleepily , with wearinesse , or without purpose to amend . To omit meditation and conference . For ministers to omit ordinarily the preaching of the word , to preach in a strange language vaingloriously , falsely , hypocritically , flatteringly , or by constraint : without cheerefulnesse for any to absent themselues negligently or wilfully from the Sacrament , the contrarie is commaunded .

What is the fifth commaundement ?

Honour thy father and thy mother , &c.

What doth this commaundement teach you ?

To preserue the dignitie of euery one by all meanes , that is any way to be preferred , either by his place , age , or gifts : and that no waies I diminish the same . The occasion of this commaundement was our proud and enuious nature , that cannot abide to be vnder gouernment , not to giue men their due .

What things are hereby forbidden ?

Contempt of our betters , vnreuerent behauiour towards them , by word , or deed , to disobey their lawfull commaundements , counsels or aduice . All treason and rebellion . The contrarie is commaunded .

What is the sixt Commaundement ?

Thou shalt do no murther .

What doth this Commaundement teach you ?

I must neither hurt nor hinder either mine owne life , or the life of my neighbour : but by all meanes preserue the same . The occasion of this commaundement , was our impatiencie and vncharitable desire of reuenge .

What things are hereby forbidden ?

Want of loue , anger , malice , enuie , g●udging , a frowning countenance , desire of reuenge , contention , rayling , quarelling , mocking , offensiue ieasting , oppression , fighting , murther , any bodily hurt : to neglect to vse meanes of health , or to hinder the same : to be contentious , and not to seeke after peace . The contrarie is commaunded .

What is the seuenth Commaundement ?

Thou shalt not commit adulterie .

What doth this commaundement teach you ?

I must not any way hurt or impaire the chastitie of my neighbour , but euery way seeke to preserue the same . The occasion of this commaundement was our lustfull and fleshly nature .

What things are hereby forbidden ?

Lustfull desires , fornication , adulterie , with all occasions hereunto : idlenesse , wanton attire , a rolling eye , corrupt and vnhonest talke , wanton songs , lasciuious pictures , vnchast playes , mixt dauncing of men and women , vnseemly gestures and acts , and companying with wantons . The contrarie is commaunded .

What is the eight commaundement ?

Thou shalt not steale .

What doth this commaundement teach you ?

That I must not any way hinder or diminish my neighbours goods , but by all meanes preserue and increase the same . The occasion hereof was our couerous nature , discontent euer with our present estate .

What things are herely forbidden ?

Pilfering and robberie , any way to take or keepe that which is not ours vnlawfully : all theft with all occasions thereunto . Not to restore things found , borowed , or left onely to be kept of trust : to giue what is not thine , either in whole or part . Not to liue contentedly , all couetous desires , idlenesse out of calling , or lithernesse in it : The contrarie is commaunded .

What is the ninth commaundement ?

Thou shalt not beare false witnesse against thy neighbour .

What doth this commaundement teach you ?

That I must not diminish the good name or credit of my neighbour , whither friend or foe , knowne or vnknowne : but carefully preserue the same . The occasion of this commaundement was our seditious nature .

What things are herely forbidden ?

Lying in ieast or earnest , backbiting , slandering , reuealing , secret infirmities and priuate offences before admonition , false witnesse , by adding or detracting in words or sense : to take a doubtfull matter in the worst part : also all occasions to this sinne , as enuie , disdaine , anger , selfe-loue , to be too suspitious , to be readie to receiue a false report against our neighbour . The contrarie is commaunded .

What is the tenth commaundement ?

Thou shalt not couer , &c.

What doth this Commaundement teach you ?

That I may not haue once an vnlawfull lust to that which is my neighbours : but for euer thinke good towards him . The occasion of

What is prayer ?

It is a right request made onely to God , in the name of Iesus Christ , by a true beleeuer , for such things as be lawfull

What rule haue you to direct you in your prayer aright ?

The same which our Sauiour Christ taught his disciples , called the Lords prayer .

Let me heare it .

Our Father which art in heauen , &c.

How many parts are thereof this prayer ?

Foure : I. a preface : II. sixe petitions : III. a confirmation . IV. a conclusion .

Which is the preface ?

It is contained in these words , Our Father which art in heauen .

What learne you out of this ?

1. That a preparation must be made to pray . 2. It shewes the properties of true prayer .

What must you aforehand prepare , in going to God to pray ?

1. I must prepare these 6. things . My mind to meditate of heauenly things , before I set to pray , and vnderstand that it is commaunded and promised , what I purpose to aske . 2. My heart , withdrawing it from former passions a while , to affect earnestly with feruencie that I will aske . 3. My words to be vttered aptly with the heart agreeing with the matter . 4. My behauiour to a holy reuerence , considering Gods iustice and maiestie , and my wickednesse and basenesse . 5. My faith , to apprehend as much as shall be necessarie . 6. My hope to waite without appointing God either the time , place , manner , or quantitie of the matter . 7. My will , to vse afterwards all the honest meanes appointed to obtaine the same .

What be the true properties of prayer ?

1. That it be in true loue : for we must remember to pray for all our brethren not departed this life , for there is no Purgatorie . 2. It must bee made onely to God , for him only can we call heauenly Father , neither to Saints nor Angels . 3. In the name of Christ , through whom onely he is our Father by adoption . 4. In faith : for that he is a Father , and will not deny his children . 5. Without a carnall conceipt of God , vaine babling , or wandering thoughts : for he is in heauen .

Which be the sixe petitions ?

Hallowed be thy name , &c.

What do these teach you ?

The summe of all the things which I can lawfully aske at Gods hand , for body or soule : wherof the first three concerne the glorie of God , and the latter three the good of man .

Which is the first petition , and what desire you in it ?

The first is , Hallowed be thy name : and I desire therein , in the first place , that I and all other may acknowledge God so truly , in his word and workes , as in euery of our thoughts , wordes , and deeds , he may be highly worshipped and praysed .

Which is the second , and what desire you in it ?

The second is , Thy kingdome come : and desire that he will send vs the meanes , thus to honour his name , that is , his word and spirit : with all things that do further thereunto ▪ that so the elect may be gathered , and Christ come to the last iudgement to giue vs his kingdome of glorie .

Which is the third petition , and what desire you in it ?

The third is , Thy will be done , and I desire , that as we haue the meanes to glorifie him , so here we pray to do , not ours , but his will , as all his commaundements and word teacheth vs : and as the blessed Saints and Angels do in heauen , heartily wi●hout hypocrisie , willingly without grudging , readily without lingring , faithfully without sinister respects , ioyfully without murmuring , and constantly without wauering vnto the end .

Which is the fourth petition , and what desire you in it ?

The fourth is , Giue vs this , &c. and I desire , that he will provide those necessaries for our bodies , without which we cannot serue him : and that we may depend patiently vpon his prouidence , vsing diligent labour , and all honest meanes to helpe our selues and others .

Which is the fifth petition , and what desire you in it ?

The fifth is , And forgiue vs our trespasses , &c and I desire , that he would forgiue all of vs , friend or foe , our sinnes , lest they either hinder vs of the former mercies , or cause them to be taken from vs : and that he will perswade our consciences , that we are forgiuen , by giuing vs grace to forgiue freely , and to forget those offences , whereby in any thing , or any way , our neighbours haue bene grieuous vnto vs .

Which is the sixt and last petition , and what desire you in it ?

The sixth is , Leade vs not into temptation , &c. and I desire , that as he will pardon vs , so he would also giue vs the gift of continuance , that though we be tempted , yet may we ouercome , and be deliuered from sinne and Sathan , and neuer fall againe any more from God .

Which is the confirmation ?

For thine is the kingdome , &c.

What learne you by this ?

I do learne hereby two things : 1. that it is a reason , not to moue God , but to stir vp our affections , and to strengthen our faith in asking .

How doth it this ?

When it teacheth me to acknowledge the kingdome to God our Father , that is , his dominion and right ouer all : and that his power is the greatest to compell all to do what he will , and as he will : and his glorie the highest , which himself maintaines , and we seeke aboue all .

What is the second thing we learne ?

2. A thanksgiuing and praysing of God , which we ought to vse in the end , as the second part of prayer : which is done , in giuing to God his owne , the rule , power , and glorie , which we desire him to manifest by graunting our petitions , and we will acknowledge the same ; not for a time , but for euer and euer .

Which is the conclusion ?

This word , Amen .

What meane you by this word ?

That I am perswaded by the aforesaid reasons , that my request is graunted , and shall bee performed , as my father shall see it conuenient for me and his glorie , in time and place . And therefore I say , it is so , or so it shall be , which is Amen .

The fifth part .

What is a Sacrament ?

It is a visible signe and seale of inuisible graces , commaunded and ordained with a promise by Christ in the Church , to be administred publikely , by a lawfull Minister , with the preaching of the word : which Sacrament with all the rites thereof doth represent and conuey by proportion and relation , in the present vse , inuisible graces , first , Christ , and then all his benefites , for further assurance of the same things , which God hath made by the promise of his word , vnto a true beleeuer , who is with Christ by the holy Ghost , vnited and made one .

What meane you by Christ , & all his benefits ?

Whole Christ , God and man , with his righteousnesse , iustice , holines , and redemption : who as he is Christ , one person of two natures , is truly said to be really present in the Sacraments , not properly in his humanitie , but by the communion of properties .

How may you be sure that you haue receiued true benefite by the Sacraments ?

If I do feele a dying to sinne , and liuing vnto righteousnesse , getting strength , and also increasing therein daily , by the force of Christes death and resurrection .

How many Sacraments are there ?

Two and no moe : Baptisme and the Lords Supper .

What is Baptisme ?

It is the first Sacrament in the new Testament , by which such as are within the couenant , are either washed , sprinkled , or dipped in the water , in the name of the Father , Sonne , and holy Ghost .

What is the outward signe and rite ?

Water and washing .

What is the inuisible grace ?

The bloud of Christ which cleanseth vs of all sinne , originall and actuall , past and to come .

Are we then no more sinners ?

Yes in ourselues : for originall sinne still is sinne in vs , but we are washed from it . because it shall not be imputed , nor any sinne else vnto me a true beleeuer .

Who are to be baptized ?

Not onely such as be of yeares , that can & do testifie their faith : but also infants of either father or mother professing Christ and baptized : for the promise of saluation belongs to them and to their children .

Is baptisme so necessarie to saluation , that without it children cannot be saued ?

It is necessarie , to all that may haue it , but not of necessitie , to such as cannot rightly come by it : for not the want , but the carelesse neglect and contempt thereof condemneth .

How oft should we be baptized ?

But once , for we may not be baptized againe after true baptisme : for being once borne , we cannot be borne againe naturally , nor spiritually .

What is the Lords Supper ?

It is the latter Sacrament in the new Testament whereby we are nourished and preserued in the Church to eternall life .

What be the outward signes ?

B. Bread and wine .

What be the things signified ?

The bodie and bloud of Christ .

What are the rites ?

The actions of the Minister and receiuer .

What are the actions of the Minister ?

A. 1. To take the bread & wine into his hands . 2. to blesse it . 3. To breake the bread , and powre foorth the wine . 4. to offer and giue them to the receiuer .

What are the actions of the receiuer ?

1. To take the bread and wine offered into his hand , 2. to eate the one , and drinke the other , and so digest and concoct them , as that they feele nourishment to the bodie .

What learn● you by all these actions ?

I am assured , that the visible actions of the Minister , doth represent the spirituall actions of God the Father to my soule , who hath decreed his Sonne , and elected him the Mediator , to haue his bodie broked , and his precious bloud shed for me , being offered to all , but giuen onely to the true beleeuer , that can by the hand of faith take hold of him : who shewes as liuely the vertue of his death to preserue his soule , as the vertue of the bread and wine is felt to nourish the bodie .

〈◊〉 the bread turned into Christs bodie , and is the wine into his very bloud ?

No verily : for then , 1. it were no Sacrament , 2. it is against reason , 3. against Scripture , 4. against an article of our Creed , 5. against the iudgment of anncient Fathers true writings , 6. against the iudgement of reformed Christian Churches , 7. against the opinion of holy Martyrs , who shed their bloud for the contrarie , 8. it is against experience of our senses , that the bread should bee flesh , or wine , bloud : neither is Christs bodie in , with , or about the same .

Is there then no difference of this bread and wine , from that which we vse commonly ?

There is no difference in the substance , but in the holy vse ▪ being at that time set apart to be signes of Christs bodie and bloud .

May euery one offer to receiue the will ?

No : but onely such : as come prepared , and be fit , that both are able in knowledge to examin , and also by a good conscience will iudge themselues , whither they be in any measure prepared thereunto .

What if you come vnprepared ?

I am an vnworthie receiuer , prouoking Gods wrath against me , and so eate and drinke my owne damnation .

Who are those that ought not to come ?

Open impenitent sinners , fooles , madde persons , children , all that be of yeares , and yet ignorant , not being able to trie and iudge themselues : and if such prophane ones do offer themselues , they are not to be admitted .

What be those things whereof you must try and iudge your selues ?

I. Of my knowledge , concerning my miserable estate through sinne , of Gods mercie ; and our deliuerance by Christ , and the vnderstanding of this Sacrament . II. Of my beleefe in Christ , which I may do by the Creede . III. Of my repentance towards God , for old and new sinnes , examined by his commaundements . IV. Of my brotherly loue , which I do owe to euery one , which I may trie and iudge by my forgiuing others , as I desire God to forgiue me , and by my seeking to satisfie whom I haue offended of my knowledge either in word or deed .

May any by omitting these duties be free from sinne , if therefore they will not receiue the Sacrament with others ?

No : for as to come vnprepared is damnation , so to neglect to prepare for any earthly occasion , is a great wickednesse , such liuing in disobedience , without repentance and charitie .

Why do you go to the Lords supper ?

1. To testifie my loue in obedience to God commaunding . 2. To strengthen my faith beeing weake . 3. To maintaine and increase the holy communion and fellowship of brotherly loue amongst vs the members of Christ and 4. to keepe a remembrance of his death till his second comming .

How must you be exercised in the time of administration , and afterwards ?

I must . 1. meditate vpon the death and passion of Christ , how grieuously I haue sinned . 2. Gods endlesse mercie . 3. the vnitie and fellowship that is amongst the true members of the Church with Christ , and one with another : reioycing in heart , and praysing God therefore with the congregation . Afterwards 1. I must giue almes to the needie brethren , and do other good works of charitie in token of thankfulnesse , that day especially , for so great a mercie . 2. Grow from thenceforth in obedience , faith , and vnfained loue to my liues end .

The sixt part .

Can you briefly sh●w me any rules to be obserued , that you may do so , as you haue bene taught ?

I. Euery morning before other businesse , I must 1. thanke God for my safetie , 2. desire pardon of sinne , 3. Gods further protection against ghostly and bodily enemies .

II. I must know that , that day , and all other times after giuen me to liue in , are for more earnest repentance , encrease of knowledge , faith , & practise of godlinesse : and therefore of these continually I must be mindfull , setting some part of the day aside for reading , hearing , or meditating vpon heauenly things : that the vanities of the world short and vncertaine carie me not away .

III. I must haue , or else prepare my selfe to some particular calling , fit to keepe me from idlenesse , and to exercise the duties of religion , in which calling must I be both honest , and profitable to others , to which 1. I must betake me speedily that no time be lost . 2. to do therein as I wold be done vnto . 3. to seeke first in my labour Gods glorie , then my owne good with my neighbours profite . 4. labour therein painefully and constantly , in aduersitie vsing good meanes hoping for prosperitie , in prosperitie neglecting no humble duties for feare of aduersitie . 5. my present estate I must account it euer the best for me , and most for Gods glorie . 6. I must not feare to spend where God and charitie requireth , sparing from idle expences , and onely lay vp , for the time to come , wh●tsoeuer shall remaine , when I haue discharged necessarie duties , honestly & religiously .

IV. I must recreate my selfe sometime from my wearisome labour , when 〈◊〉 see need , which must be 1. at times conuenient . 2. in things lawfull . 3. short , delightsome to the mind , & healthfull for the bodie . 4. to make me more chearefull to returne to labour , and not to draw me to loiter & to idlenes , no end appointed to man nor beast .

V. I must warily see to mine owne waies . 1. My thoughts and heart must 1. be far from vnlawfull affection . 2. vpon lawfull things on earth moderate , and no more then needes . 3. vpon God and heauenly things often , feruently , and reuerently . 4 that I striue against selfe-loue , thinking of my selfe basely ; and waxe , by more and greater gifts , the more humble and lesse enuious 5. On others I must thinke highly , and charitably , iudging wel without suspitions what I heare or see good in them , receiuing it with ioy : and hoping of better what I see or heare to be ill in them , taking doubtfull words or deeds from them in the better part . II. My eyes must be shut against obiects to sinne , that they let them not into my heart , to stine vp ill motions : but quicke to obserue euery good example and occasion to goodnesse . III. My eares must be exercised in hearing the truth , good counsels , friendly admonitions , and godly exhortations , but shut against flatterie , lyings , slaunder , filthie and wicked speeches . IV. My tongue must keepe silent , vnlesse iust cause and conuenient time and place be to speake . In speaking the matter must 1. be gracious to profit the hearers , and also necessarie to be vttered . 2. in wisedome regarding circumstances . 3. in sinceritie to speake it from the heart . 4. speaking of God and his word , it must be religiously and ioyfully : of ourselues modestly : of others louingly . 5. to prayse moderately without contempt : to disprayse meekely shewing loue , to be constrained by necessitie , rather then of will , to speake of other mens faults , expressing sorow in vttering . 6. to speake well of men in absence , what good we know of them , and to defend them , and in presence without flatterie . 7. to vse few wordes and effectuall to the matter without tediousnesse . 8. not to talke of needlesse matters , or which concerne vs nor , as busi-bodies , neither of any thing , against religion , charitie , common good , or chastitie . V. My behauiour , 1. it must be lowly to superiours , 2. gentle to inferiours , and 3. louely to familiars . VI. My apparell it must be first for necessitie , and then for honest decencie , as we are able , and agreeing with our calling . VII . My diet must be 1. sparing , ordinarily a kind of fasting , rather then a feasting . 2. taking my foode with hunger and thirsting . 3. at seasonable howers . 4. that thereby 1. my strength may be maintained and encreased , 2. my meditation and deuotion nothing hindred . 5. that we be prepared in the beginning may feele a necessitie and pray to God : and in the end sufficient refreshing , may thanke God .

VI. J must take heed what companie I keepe with , 1. that J make my familiars none but honest and religious , 2. that they be my equals in estate and place , not superiours , to auoid suspition of pride : nor too much inferiour , least it bring contempt . 3. that of these , not many , but one of all , I warily , deliberately , and with much triall , chuse my secret friend . 4. that in going or keeping with any , J must euer purpose either to do good , or receiue some .

VII . At night , the time of rest , 1. I must call to mind Gods benefites receiued , either by preuenting euill , or by bringing good vpon me , to thanke him . 2. J must recount what I haue done , either in euill to repent , or what good I performed to iudge either of my increasing or decaying in grace : sorowing more for the duties omitted and sinnes committed , then ioyfull of any good done . 3. In taking rest I must commit my selfe to God , by a deuout and faithfull prayer , as thinking no more to rise . 4. to haue my last thoughts of heauenly things , by committing or recalling somwhat to mind , of I haue either heard or learned out of Gods word . 5. that I take sleepe to refresh nature and not to satisfie slouthfull flesh .

VIII . And last is , that all the weeke long I remember so to labour in my calling , and dispose of my ordinarie businesse , that I be prepared for the Lords day to keepe it holy : but especially at the end of the weeke , so that when it comes , I may neither by them breake it , or be hindred . Thus liuing to God holly , to my neighbour charitably , and towards my selfe soberly , my conscience shall be comforted , my weake brethren strengthened , the strong confirmed , the wicked made ashamed , the diuell confounded , and God greatly glorified .

FINIS .