A briefe methode of catechizing Wherein are handled these foure points. 1 How miserable all men are by nature. 2 What remedie God hath appointed for their deliuerance. 3 How they must liue that are deliuered. 4 What helps they must vse to that end. The same points are also contracted, and a forme of examining communicants added. Briefe methode of catechising Egerton, Stephen, 1555?-1621? This text is an enriched version of the TCP digital transcription A21174 of text S118986 in the English Short Title Catalog. 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. 73KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 31 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. EarlyPrint Project Evanston,IL, Notre Dame, IN, St. Louis, MO 2018 A21174

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 Early English books online text creation partnership. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 2, no. A21174) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 19602) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1475-1640 ; 421:05) A briefe methode of catechizing Wherein are handled these foure points. 1 How miserable all men are by nature. 2 What remedie God hath appointed for their deliuerance. 3 How they must liue that are deliuered. 4 What helps they must vse to that end. The same points are also contracted, and a forme of examining communicants added. Briefe methode of catechising Egerton, Stephen, 1555?-1621? The sixteenth edition, newly perused and amended by the author. [8], 52 p. Imprinted by F. K[ingston] for Henrie Fetherstone, dwelling in Pauls Churchyard, at the signe of the Rose, At London : 1610. "To the Christian reader" signed: St. Egerton. Printer's name from STC. Reproduction of the original in the British Library.

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 eng Catechisms, English -- Early works to 1800. eebo A briefe methode of catechizing. Wherein are handled these foure points. 1 How miserable all men are by nature. 2 What remedie God hath appointed for Egerton, Stephen, 1555?-1621?. 1610 62 12023 5 0 0 0 0 0 4.16 B The rate of 4.16 defects per 10,000 words puts this text in the B category of texts with fewer than 10 defects per 10,000 words. 2013-11 Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2014-03 Sampled and proofread 2014-03 Text and markup reviewed and edited 2015-03 Batch review (QC) and XML conversion

A BRIEFE METHODE OF CATECHIZING . Wherein are handled these foure points . 1 How miserable all men are by nature . 2 What remedie God hath appointed for their deliuerance . 3 How they must liue that are deliuered . 4 What helps they must vse to that end . The same points are also contracted , and a forme of examining Communicants added . 1. PET . 3.15.16 . Be ready alwaies to giue an answere to euery man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you , with meekenesse and feare . The sixteenth Edition , newly perused and amended by the Author .

AT LONDON , Imprinted by F. K. for Henrie Fetherstone , dwelling in Pauls Churchyard , at the signe of the Rose . 1610.

TO THE CHRISTIAN READER .

ALthough at the first publishing of this little Catechisme , I called it a Method , only to distinguish it from other bookes of the same argument : yet since , it hath put me in mind to auoid some repetitions . But especially I haue respect to the benefit of the simple , for whose sakes I haue cut off many particular questions , and made the rest ( where I conueniently could ) shorter and plainer . For the same cause I haue set down fewer quotations , and those for the most part out of the new Testament , because the Reader might with more ease turne vnto them . And although the most part doe let the quotations stand as ciphers in the margent , To reade and examine the places of Scripture set downe in the margent , a most profitable exercise . neuer searching the Scriptures , according to the example of those noble and worthie Christians , mentioned in the Acts , 17.11 . yet I would aduise thee Christian Reader , to reforme the common fault , and with all care and diligence , to turne to the places which are noted , that thy faith and conscience may bee grounded , not vpon the speeches of men , but vpon the words of the holie Ghost : to whose gratious and comfortable direction I commend and commit thee now and euer .

Thine in the Lord Iesus , ST. EGERTON .
PLACES OF SCRIPture , shewing the necessitie and antiquitie of Catechizing , aswell priuately , as publikely . Testimonies .

THese words which I command thee this day shall bee in thy heart , Deut . 16.6.7.8 . and thou shalt rehearse them continuallie ( setting an edge vpon them ) vnto thy children : and thou shalt talke of them when thou tariest in thy house , &c.

For precept must be vpon precept , Esai . 20.18 . precept vpon precept , line vnto line , line vnto line , there a little , and there a little .

Therefore leauing the doctrine of the beginning of Christ , Heb . 6.1.2 . let vs be led forward to perfection , not laying againe the foundation of repentance from dead works , and of faith to God , &c.

And the Lord said , shall I hide from Abraham Abraham . that thing which I doe ? Gen. 18.17 for I know him that he will command his sons , and his household after him , &c.

Dauid . 1. Chro . 28.9.10 . And thou Salomon my sonne , know thou the God of thy father , and serue him with a perfect heart , and with a willing mind , &c.

Christ . Mat . 16.15.16.17 . He said vnto them , But who say yee that I am ? Then Simon Peter answered and said , Thou art Christ , the Sonne of the liuing God . And Iesus answered and said vnto him , Blessed art thou Simon the sonne of Ionas , &c.

And Philip Philip . ranne thither , and heard him reade the Prophet Esaias , Act. 8.30.31.35.36.37 . and said : But vnderstandest thou that thou readest ? And he said , How can I , except I haue a guide ?

Bethsheba . Prou. 31.12 &c. 16. The words of King Lemuel : a collection of the precepts which his mother taught him . What my sonne ?

A PRAYER BEFORE the Exercise .

MOst blessed Lord , and heauenly Father , we acknowledge and confesse before thy Maiestie , that wee are dull to conceiue , weake to remember , hard to beléeue , and slow to practise the wholesome instructions , fearefull threatnings , and gratious promises of thy heauenlie word . Wherfore we humbly beséech thée to be present with vs at this time , to teach vs and blesse vs , and to make this exercise of thy holy word , powerfull and profitable vnto vs. O Lord enlighten our minds , that wee may vnderstand , open our hearts , that we may beleeue , and so strengthen our memories , that we may hide and lay vp thy promises , precepts and threatnings in our hearts , to keepe vs from sinning against thee . And though by the corruption of our nature , wee thinke euery good thing tedious and vnsauoury , yet we pray thee to sanctifie and sweeten the same vnto vs by thy holy Spirit , that we may find more comfort therein , then in any worldlie oz bodily exercise whatsoeuer . And grant O Lord our God , that this true ioy and found delight may make vs watchfull to redeeme the time , and constant in performing this holy dutie , to the dayly increase of faith & a good conscience , to thy glorie and our owne saluation , through our Lord and Sauior Iesus Christ : to whom with thee and the holy Ghost , be giuen all honor and glory for euer , Amen .

A BRIEFE METHODE of Catechizing : wherein are handled these foure points . 1 How miserable al men are by nature . 2 What remedy God hath appointed for their deliuerance . 3 How they must liue that are deliuered . 4 What helps they must vse to that end .
Certaine generall Questions .

Q. OF what religion are you ? Religion . Acts 11.26 .

A. Of the Christian religion .

Q. What religion is that ?

A. That which teacheth men to looke for true and euerlasting happinesse by Christ alone . Acts 4.12 .

Q. Where is this religion taught ?

A. In the holie Scriptures of the old and new testament , Scriptures . which are giuen vs of God to bee a perfect rule of sound doctrine and good life . Iohn 5.39 . 2. Tim . 3.16

Q. What learne you generally out of the Scriptures ?

Iohn 17.3 . Rom. 7.9 . A. Two things : The knowledge of God , and of our selues , wherein standeth our chiefe happinesse .

Q. What is God ?

God . Iohn 4.24 . 1. Tim . 1.17 A. God is a Spirit , and king euerlasting , immortall , inuisible , and onely wise .

Q. Is there any more but one onely true God ?

A. No : but this one God hath made himselfe knowne to vs in thrée seuerall persons , Mar. 12.29 . 1. Iohn 5.7 the Father , the Sonne , and the holy Ghost .

Q. What are the workes of God ?

Decree . Rom. 11.36 A. They are generallie thrée : wherof the first is the foreseeing and appointing of all things before all time to his owne glorie .

Q. What speciall things hath God foreseene and appointed ?

Predestination . Eph. 1.4.5 . Mat . 25.46 A. Hee hath appointed some men ( called therefore his elect or chosen ) to eternall glory , & others to eternal fire .

Q. What is the second worke ?

A. The making of all things in the beginning excéeding good in their seuerall kinds . Creation . Gen. 1.31 . Col. 1.16 .

Q. What is the third ?

A. The ruling and gouerning of all things most wisely , Gouernment . Mat . 10.29 . Iohn 8.20 . mightilie and righteouslie .

Q. How did God make man ?

A. He made man both male and female , in a most happie estate , Man . Col. 3.10 . Ephes . 4.24 according to his owne Image , in perfect knowledge and righteousnes .

The first principall point .

Q. Did man thus made , continue in this blessed estate ?

A. No : they fell from it , Mans fall . Gen. 3.12 . Eccle . 7.31 . and became most cursed and miserable creatures .

Q. How did they fall ?

A. By the enticement of the diuell , 2. Cor . 11.3 . 1. Tim . 2.14 and their owne wilfull disobedience in breaking the commandement of God .

Q. What came to vs their posteritie thereby ?

Originall guiltines and corruption . Rom. 5.12 . Ephes . 2.1 . A. Three things : Guiltines of their sinne , corruption of nature , and continuall sinning against God in motion , thought , word and deede .

Q. What is sinne ?

Sinne . Rom. 7.7 . 1. Iohn 3.4 . A. Sin is whatsoeuer is not fullie agreeable to the holines and perfection of the law of God .

Q. What is the punishment of sin ?

Punishment . Rom. 6.23 Mat . 5.22 . A. The losse of Gods fauour and former happinesse , with the due deseruing of all plagues in this world , and hell fire in the world to come .

Q. How came these things to vs their posteritie by their fall ?

Gen. 5.3 . Heb . 7.9.10 A. Because Adam and Eue were the common parents of vs all , and the very stocke & roote from whence all mankind did spring .

Q. Are all men sinners then ?

Rom. 3.10.11.12 . A. Yea : all haue sinned and failed of the glorie of God , there is none that doth good , no not one .

Q. And are all subiect to this punishment ?

Ephes . 2.3.12 . Act. 10.38 . A. Yea : all without exception are the children of wrath , and bondslaues of Satan .

Q. How may we be touched with the sense of feeling of our sinnes ?

A. If we consider the greatnesse , Heb . 12.29 . & 10.31 . & 4.12.13 . multitude , and filthinesse of them , being committed against the glorious Maiestie of God , and his most pure and vndefiled law .

Q. How may we be touched with feare and horror of the punishment ?

A. If we consider how many and how grieuous Gods iudgements are in this life , Deut . 21.15 Mark . 9.43.44 . and how intollerable and endlesse in the life to come .

Q. What ought this feeling and feare to worke in vs ?

A. An vtter loathing and dislike of our selues , Mat . 11.28 . Luk . 5.17.18 . with an earnest desire and carefull labouring after the remedie prescribed in the Gospell .

The second principall point .

Q. What remedie Remedie . is there against this miserie ?

A. None at al , either in our selues , Acts 4.12 . 1. Cor . 1.30 . or in any creature , but only in Iesus Christ .

Christ . Gal. 4.4.5 . Rom. 5.15 . Q. What is Christ ?

A. The eternall Sonne of God , who in time became man , to repare the image of God in the elect , and to restore them to a better estate then they lost in Adam .

Q. Why was it needfull he should be man ?

Christ man . Heb . 2.16 . & 4.5 . A. Because he could not haue died and answered for mans sinne , except he had taken mans nature .

Q. Why was it needfull he should be God ?

Christ God . Heb . 4.14 . & 7.25 . A. Because else he could not haue ouercome death , and performed that perfect satisfaction and righteousnesse which the diuine iustice required .

Q. What hath Christ done for man ?

Redemption 2. Cor . 5.21 . Gal. 3.13 . A. He hath fully pacified Gods infinit anger against the sinnes of all the elect , fréeing them from sin , and death , and so is made our redemption .

Q. What else ?

Righteousnesse . Rom. 10.4 . 1. Cor . 1.31 . A. Hee hath fulfilled for them the perfect righteousnesse required in the law , and so is made our righteousnes .

Q. What blessing and reward do men reape by the obedience and righteousnesse of Christ ?

A. By him they haue adoption , Adoption . Ioh . 1.12 . Ephes . 1.5 . that is , they are made the children of God and heires of eternall glorie .

Q. What else hath Christ done for vs ?

A. He hath sanctified our nature in his owne person , Sanctification . Rom. 8.2 1. Cor . 1.30 . and doth sanctifie vs daily by his spirit , and so is made our sanctification .

Q. Do men perfectly inioy al these benefits in this life ?

A. They are fully iustified in the sight of God , Sanctification imperfect . 1. Ioh . 3.2 . Rom. 9.23.24 . and adopted into the number of his children , but not whollie freed from sinne , till after death .

Q. How then can any thing that proceedeth from vs , be pleasing to God ?

A. Because Christ , Intercession . Rom. 8.34 . 1. Iohn 2.1 sitting at his right hand a mediator , maketh our duties ( though weake and imperfect ) acceptable to his father .

Q. Who are partakers of these benefits by Christ ?

A. Onely such as come vnto him , Mat . 11.28 Iohn 6.35 . that is , which beleeue in his name .

Q. What is it to beleeue in Christ ?

Faith . Luk . 2.11 .. A. To he truly perswaded in heart that he is a Sauiour euen to vs.

Q. What encouragement haue we to beleeue in Christ ?

Iohn 6.29 . & 3.16 . Mark . 5.36 A. Because we are commanded and exhorted so to do , and for that he is offered fréely vnto vs of God , with this only condition , to beleeue in him .

Q. Is it for the worthinesse of our faith that we are saued ?

Mark . 9.24 1. Cor . 13.9 A. No : ( for we beleeue in part , ) but only for the worthinesse of Iesus Christ , vpon whom faith laieth hold .

Q. Is it in our power to beleeue ?

Ephes . 2.8.48 . Act. 13.4 . Rom. 10.17 . A. No : It is the gift of God to his children , wrought in their hearts by the holy Ghost , through the preaching of the word .

The third principall point .

Q. Seeing wee are saued onely by Christ through faith , may wee now liue as we list ?

Tit . 2.11.12 . &c. 2. Tim . 2.19 . A. No : for the Gospell teacheth vs to deny all vngodlinesse and worldly lusts : and Christ died to purge vs to himselfe a peculiar people , zealous of good works .

Q. What works are to be accounted good workes ?

A. Such as proceed from faith , Good works Heb . 11.6 . 1. Cor . 10.31 . Rom. 14.23 and be done to the glorie of God , & grounded vpon the word of God .

Q. What cal you the first & continuall work of Gods spirit in the faithfull ?

A. Repentance : Repentance that is , such a changing and renewing of the heart , Mat . 3.7.8 . & 12.33.34.35 . as bringeth forth a new life and conuersation .

Q. What be the parts of repentance ?

A. Two : that is , dying to sinne , Rom. 6.11 . Ephe . 4.22.23 . and liuing to righteousnes : or the putting off the old man , and putting on the new .

Q. Whence do these two spring ?

A. From the power and vertue of Christs death and resurrection , Rom. 6.3.4.5 . Ioh . 15.1.2 . into whom we are ingrafted by faith .

Q. Wherein doth repentance chiefely appeare ?

A. In the changing of the thoughts , affections , meditations , and delights . Rom. 2.28.29 . Ephe . 4.22.23 .

Q. Why shuld we repent & do good works , seeing we are not saued by thē ?

Motiues to repentance and good workes . Eph. 2.10 . 1. Cor . 6.9.10 . Mat . 5.16 . 2. Pet . 1.9 . A. Because God requireth them at our hands ; and that no vnrighteous person , or vnrepentant sinner shal enter into the kingdome of God .

Q. Wherefore else ?

A. To glorifie God our heauenlie father , and to shew our selues thankfull for all his benefits , especially for our redemption by Iesus Christ .

Q. Is there any other reason ?

1. Pet . 3.1 . 2. Pet . 1.10 A. Yea : by this meanes wee may win others to God , and make sure our owne calling and election to our selues .

Q. How can we haue any assurance of our calling and election by works

Iam . 2.14 . 1. Ioh . 1.6.7 . Rom. 5.1 . & 2.29 . Iohn 21.17 . Ioh . 1.3.1.4 . 1. Ioh . 5.4 . A. Because they shew whether our faith in Christ be true or counterfeit liuing or dead .

Q. What works do chiefly shew this ?

A. Peace of conscience , vprightne●… of hart , the true feare and loue of Go●… and our brethren , striuing against si●… victory ouer the world , and such like

Q. What other witnesse haue the faithfull ?

Rom. 8.16 . A. They haue the spirit of God be●… ring witnes to their spirits , 1. Ioh . 5.6.7 8. that they be the children of God .

Q. Doe these witnesses neuer faile the faithfull ?

A. Luk . 22.31.32.56.57 . Psal . 51.9.10.11 . They may be ouershadowed in them by the malice of Satan , & conscience of sinne : but neuer finally and wholly taken away .

Q. Why so ?

A. Ephes . 1.4 . Heb . 6.13 . Ioh . 10.28 . Because they are grounded vpon the euerlasting purpose , and faithfull promise of almightie God .

Q. Do our works deserue nothing at Gods hand ?

A. No : for they are his own works in vs , and a debt most due to him : besides , Phil . 2.13 . Luk . 17.10 . Heb . 11.6 . in vs they are spotted and imperfect : and finally , we are freely iustified by faith before we doe them .

Q. These are strong perswasions to liue godly : but is there no reward for good works ?

A. Yes : exceeding great , 1. Tim . 4.8 . Mat . 19.29 both in this life , and especially in the life to come .

Q. Commeth this of the worthines or merit of our works ?

A. No : Phil . 3.8.9.10 . but only of the free fauour and mercy of God , Hebr . 6.10 . through the merit and obedience of Iesus Christ .

Q. What other spurre haue we to good workes ?

Psal . 116.12 . Heb . 13.6 . A. The liuely remembrance of Gods benefits past , and his promise of assistance in time of need .

The fourth principall point .

Q. What meanes hath God appointed to continue and increase his graces in vs ?

A. They are generally two : publike and priuate .

Q. What shall wee say of them which want these meanes ?

Ephes . 2 12 1. Cor . 5.12 A. That their estate is very fearefull , and for ought we know , plaine damnable .

Q. And what of such as hauing the means , do either refuse or abuse them ?

A. That they be far more inexcusable before the iudgement seat of God . Matth . 11.20.21.22 . Luk . 7.301 Luk . 15.8 . Luk . 18.1 .

Q. How must these meanes be vsed ?

A. With such sincerity , conscience , and feruency , that wée may feele fruit and comfort by the doing thereof .

Q. What are the publike ?

A. They are foure : prayer , 1. Tim . 2.1 . Mat . 28.18 19.20 . the word preached , Sacraments , & discipline .

Q. How may we profit by prayer ?

H. Prayer . Col. 3.17 . Iam . 1.6.7 . & 4.3 . & 5.16 . If ( asking things lawfully only at Gods hands in the name of Christ ) we come with reuerence of his Maiestie , zeale of his glory , feeling of our wants , affiance to be heard , and loue to our brethren .

Q. How may we profit by the word preached ?

A. If , being perswaded , Preaching . 1. Cor . 1.21 Mat . 13 19. Luk . 8.15 . Rom. 1.16 . that it is Gods ordinance , wee marke it diligently , and after examine our selues what wee remember , and how wee practise that which was taught .

Q. What say you of the word read ?

A. It is a part of Gods ordinance , Reading . Act. 13.15 . 1. Cor . 14.24.25 . Nehe . 8.8 . 2. Tim . 2.15 . & 4.2 . yet much more effectuall when it is preached .

Q. What call you preaching ?

A. When the word of God is truly expounded and profitably applied , with doctrine , exhortation , rebuke , and comfort .

Q. Thus much of prayer and of the word . What is a Sacrament ?

Sacraments . Rom. 4.11 . 1. Cor . 10.16 A. It is a holy signe and seale ordained of God , to assure vs of his loue to vs in Christ , & to testifie & confirme our faith and obedience to him , & our loue & fellowship one with another .

Q. How is it a signe , and how is it a seale ?

1 Cor . 10.1 2.3.4 . Mar. 16.15.16 . A. It is a signe , because it setteth forth Christ & his benefits to the outward senses of all : and a seale , because it doth effectually apply to the faithful the truth and fruit thereof .

Q. How many Sacraments be there ?

1. Cor . 10.2.3.4 . A. Two : baptisme , and the Lords supper .

Q. Why be there two seales , seeing there is but one Couenant ?

Ioh . 1.12 . & 6.32 . A. To assure vs , that by communion with Christ we are borne againe : and shall be nourished to eternall life .

Q. What is Baptisme ? Baptisme .

Act. 22 16. 1. Ioh . 1.7 . A. The Sacrament of our new and spirituall birth , assuring vs by the due sprinkling of water , that our sinnes are forgiuen by Christs blood , and we iustified by his obedience .

Q. What else doth it teach and assure vs of ?

A. Dying to sin , and liuing to righteousnesse ; Rom. 6.2.3.4.5.6 . 1. Cor . 15.29 . it is also a pledge of the resurrection of our bodies after death .

Q. Why are wee baptized in the name of the Father , the Sonne , and the holy Ghost ?

A. To teach and assure vs of our communion with one God in three persons . Mat . 28.19 . 1. Iohn 1.3 .

Q. Why are infants baptized ?

A. Because the couenant and promise of God is made to the faithfull , Gen. 17.7 . 1. Cor . 7.14 and to their seede .

Q. What is the Lords supper ?

A. The Sacrament of our spirituall nourishment , Lords Supper . 1. Cor . 10.16 . Iohn 6.51 . assuring vs by bread and wine , duely giuen and receiued , that by Christ we shall be nourished to eternall life .

Q. May al that professe Christianity be admitted as fit and worthie receiuers ?

A. No : but only such as can , 1. Cor . 11.28.29 . and also doe diligentlie proue , examine and try themselues .

Q. Wherein must Christians examine and proue themselues ?

Rom. 14.23 2. Cor . 13.4 Matth . 3.6 and 5.23 . 1. Cor . 5.7.8 . A. Whether they know the grounds of religion , vnderstand the doctrine of the Sacraments , beleeue in Christ , hate their sinne , and loue their brethren .

Q. What if men cannot find those things in themselues ?

1. Cor . 11.27.29 . A. Then they must forbeare till God haue wrought them , vsing carefully all other helps appointed for that purpose .

Q. What if they find them weake and feeble ?

Mat . 11.28 . and 12.20 . A. Then they may and ought to receiue , to be further strengthned .

Q. What is discipline ?

Discipline . Matth . 18.15.16 . &c. A. That order and power which God hath left to his Church to auoide offences , and recouer such as doe fall .

Q. What is this power called in the Scripture ?

Matt . 16.19 Luk . 11.52 . A. It is called the keyes of the kingdome of heauen , and the power of binding and loosing .

Q. Why so ?

A. Because the repentant are as it were loosed and let into heauen by the promise of forgiuenesse of sinnes , Ioh . 20.23 . Luk . 7.50 . Act. 8.20.37 . and the obstinat bound and shut out .

Q. Is it lawfull for euery man to preach and to administer the Sacraments and Discipline , and to pray publikely ?

A. No : Rom. 10.15 Heb . 5.4 . It is vtterly vnlawfull for any man , except hee bee lawfully called thereunto .

Q. May we not rest in this publike meanes ?

A. No : 1. Sam . 26.19 . Ester . 4.16 . Matth . 6.6 for we cannot alwaies haue them , and the word of God , and our necessitie requireth priuate also .

Q. What is the first priuate helpe ?

A. Earnest thinking vpon profitable things , Meditation . Psalm . 11 9 15.52.97 . Rom. 15.4 . as the words and workes of God , his iudgements and mercies towards others , but especially towards our selues .

Q. What is the fruite of meditation ?

A. Not onely to keepe the minde free from wicked and idle thoughts , Psalm . 12. Matt . 6.20 . Col. 3.12 . but also to fill it with some holy and comfortable matter .

Q. What is the second helpe ?

Prayer . Col. 4.2 . 1. Tim . 4.5 . A. Prayer , which must be daily offered vp to God , that he may haue the glory of pardoning our daily sinnes , and of sanctifying our food , labours , and rest vnto vs.

Q. What is the third helpe ?

Reading . 1. Tim . 4.13 Acts 17.11 A. Reading of the holy Scriptures : which will both enable vs to the duties of meditation and prayer , and make the publike Ministery more fruitfull vnto vs.

Q. What is the fourth helpe ?

Conference . Heb . 3.13 . & 10.14 . A. Godly conference , instructing , rebuking , exhorting , comforting one another in wisdome and loue .

Q. What is the fifth help ?

Practise . Iohn 7.17 . & 13.17 . A. A carefull practise of that we know , without which we shal neuer truly taste the vertue of religion and power of godlinesse .

Q. Are the labours of our calling any hindrances to godlinesse ?

Ephes . 6.5 . &c. Act. 18.3 . A. No : but great helps , if they be porformed in due time , with conscience , cheerfulnes and moderation , not quenching the loue and care of better things .

Q. How shal we attaine this moderation ?

A. If we be truly perswaded that our happinesse consisteth not in outward things , Luk . 12.15 . Heb . 11.13.14.15.16 . but is laid vp for vs in the life to come .

Q. What helpe receiue Christians from Gouernours and Magistrates ?

A. Very great : Gouernours 2. Tim . 2.2 Rom. 13.3.4 . for by their authoritie they are bridled from sin , and encouraged in vertue , and vnder them they liue a godly and peaceable life .

Q. What wil the enioying and vse of all the meanes work in Gods children ?

A. A most happie and comfortable change from that which they were before , euen in this life . 1. Cor . 6.11 Ephes . 5.8 .

Q. What becommeth of them after this life ?

A. The soule goeth immediatly into the paradise of God , Luk . 16.22 . & 23.43 . Mat . 25.46 and the body shal be raised vp at the last day , and ioyned with the same in glorie for euer .

THE FOVRE PRINCIPAL points contracted , and diuided into euen parts : euery part containing ten questions .

Q. WHat is the estate of euery naturall man ?

Miserie . Ephes . 2.3 . Rom. 7.24.8 . Acts 23. Rom. 6.23 . A. Very miserable , and in no wise to be rested in .

Q. What maketh his estate so bad ?

A. Two things : sinne , and the punishment thereof .

Q. What call you sinne ?

1. Iohn 3.4 . A. Euery breach of Gods law .

Q. How doth man breake the law of God ?

Esai . 1.16 . Dan . 9.6 . Eze . 33.31 . A . By doing things forbidden , leauing things commanded , or failing in the maner .

Q. What is the punishment of sin ?

Deu . 27.26 & 28.15 . &c. Luk . 16.2.3 26. Prou. 6.16 . A. All miseries in this life , death in the end , and hell euer after .

Q. Is sin such a grieuous thing ?

A. Yea : it is the most filthie and loathsome thing in the world .

Q. How appeareth that ? Esay . 1.14 .

A. Both by the punishment , Mark . 9.43.44 . and by the person against whom it is committed .

Q. Who is that ?

A. Almighty God , 1. Sam . 2.25 . Heb . 10.31 & . 12.29 . Psal . 51.4 . Act. 2.37.40 . whose holinesse and iustice is infinit .

Q. What shall a man doe in that wofull state ?

A. Bewaile his miserie , and hasten to get out of it .

Q. Is he able to get out of it ?

A. No : Rom. 7.6.7.8 . Luk . 11.23 Mark . 4.19 And besides he hath three enemies , the flesh , the diuell , and the world , that will labour to hold him in it .

The second part .

Q. Where shall a man find helpe ?

A. Only in Iesus Christ , the only Sonne of God . Deliuerance Act. 4.12 .

Q. What hath he done to deliuer man out of miserie ?

A. He became man , Iohn 1.14 : Rom. 8.3 . and in our nature answered the law , and satisfied the iustice of God .

Gal. 3.12 . Rmo . 8.4 . Q. How hath he answered the law ?

A. By bearing the punishment which the Law threatned , and fulfilling the righteousnesse which the law required .

Q : How did Christ beare the punishment due to sinne by the law ?

Mat . 2.14 . Luk . 9.58 . Phil . 2.8 . A. By induring manifold miseries all his life time , and in the end the wrath of God , and the cursed death of the Crosse .

Q. How did he worke the righteousnesse required by the law ?

Luk . 2.51 . Mat . 3.15 . A. By being obedient to the wil of God , in thought , word and deed , all his life long .

Q. What benefit haue men by Christs sufferings ?

Heb . 2.14.15 . A. Deliuerance from sin , and the punishment thereof .

Q. And what by his righteousnes and obedience ?

Gal. 4.5.6.7 . A. The fauour of God and euerlasting happinesse .

Q. How may men obtaine these benefits by Christ ?

Ioh . 1.12 . A. Only by a true faith in him .

Q. What is a true faith in Christ ?

A. An assurance , Ioh . 6.69 . that by his sufferings our sinnes are forgiuen ; and by his righteousnes , the fauour of God , and euerlasting life is obtained for vs.

Q. Is it in our power to beleeue ?

A. No : Ephes . 2.8 . Rom. 1.16.17 . & 10.17 it is the gift of God by the working of the spirit , through the preaching of the Gospell .

The third part .

Q. Shall all beleeuers haue benefit by Christs death ?

A. All that doe truly beleeue shall : Godly life . but there is a dead faith that profiteth nothing . Iohn 3.16 . Iames 2.14

Q. How is the true faith perceiued ?

A. By the fruits thereof , Iames 2.18 1. Iohn 2.3 . and namely by repentance .

Q. Why so ?

A. Luk . 19.8.9 Because wheresoeuer Gods spirit worketh true faith , there he worketh repentance also .

Q. What is repentance ?

A. Such a change of the heart , Matth . 3.8 . as bringeth forth a reformed life .

Q. Whence commeth this change ?

Luke 7.47 . A. Especially from the sight and feeling of Gods mercie towards vs in Christ .

Q. From what is the heart changed ?

A. From the loue of the world , to the loue of God : Iohn 21.15 . Philem . v. 11. from carelesnesse , to conscience , and desire to please God .

Q. What is the change called ?

2. Cor . 5.18 Gal. 6.1.5 . A. It is called in Scriptures , a new creature .

Q. How doth it appeare ?

Psal . 34.14 1. Tim . 4.7.8 . A. When in word and deed we abstaine from euill , & exercise our selues in that which is good .

Q. Is this change of heart and mind perfect in any ?

A. No : we beleeue not perfectly : and therefore we cannot loue perfectly : Mar. 9.24 . 1. Cor . 13.9 . Heb . 6.1.3 . 1. Thess. 5.19.20 . but we must striue to perfection .

Q. How must we striue ?

A. By a diligent vse of the meanes , which God hath appointed , for our increase in faith and repentance .

The fourth part .

Q. What are the publike meanes ?

A. They are chiefly three ; hearing the word , Helpes to godlinesse . Rom. 10.13.14.15 . Luk . 22.19 . 1. Tim . 2. Rom. 4.11 . 1. Cor . 10.16 . receiuing the Sacraments , and ioyning in prayer .

Q. What are the Sacraments ?

A. Certaine outward signes and seales appointed of God , to assure vs that Christ and al his benefits are giuen to vs.

Q. How many Sacraments are there ?

A. Two : 1. Cor . 10.2.3.4 . Baptisme and the Lords Supper .

Q. What doth Baptisme assure vs of ?

A. That being ingraffed into Christ , Tit . 3.5 . 1. Pet . 3.21 we are washed from our sins by his bloud , and borne anew to God .

Q. What doth the Lords Supper assure vs of ?

A. It doth further warrant vs , 1. Cor . 10.16.17 & 11.25 26. that Christ is giuen to vs to bee our spiritual nourishment to euerlasting life .

Q. Who maketh the right vse of the Sacraments ?

A. Act. 20.11.12 . He that is thereby daily confirmed in faith , and newnes of life .

Q. Who obtaine this benefit by the Lords Supper ?

A. Such , as come with knowledge , 1. Cor . 11.28 . faith , repentance and loue .

Q. What is prayer ?

Matth . 6.9 . &c. Luk . 17.15.16.17 . A. crauing of those things at Gods hands which we want , and a thanking of him for those we haue .

Q. When do men pray aright ?

Psal . 50.14 Col. 3.17 . A. When they pray only to God , in the name of Christ : asking things lawfull , to his glory , with faith , feeling and loue .

Q. What be the priuate meanes ?

Gen. 24.63 . & 18.19 . Dan . 9.2 . &c. Luk . 21.34 . Heb . 10.24 A. Reading and prayer , alone and with others , instructing our families , thinking vpon good matters , admonishing and comforting one another , and watching ouer our owne waies , according to the word .

A MORE BRIEFE SVMME wherein the former fortie Questions and Answeres are brought to foure .

Q. WHat is the summe of the first point ?

Gen. 6.5 . A. That euery man by nature is a most vile and cursed creature , Psal . 51.5 . Iohn 3.6 . Ephes . 2.1.2.3 . an enemie to God , a bondslaue of sinne and Satan , and heire of eternall condemnation .

Q. What is the summe of the second point ?

A. That the onely meanes to free vs out of this miserable estate , Act. 4 12. & 26.15.18 . Heb . 2.14.15 . Iohn 1.12 . and to make vs truely happie and holy , is Iesus Christ alone , and the same apprehended only by faith .

Q. What is the summe of the third point ?

A. That whosoeuer doth truly beleeue in Iesus Christ , 2. Cor . 5.17 Rom. 6. &c. & 8.1.2 . &c. & 7.1.2.6.3 . &c. Col. 3.1.2 . Prou. 29.18 . Amos 8.11.12 . Rom. 10 14 Exod . 20.7 is a new creature , daily dying to sinne , and rising againe to righteousnesse and holines .

Q. What is the summe of the fourth point ?

A. That whosoeuer will continue a new creature , and increase in grace , must conscionablie vse both the publike and priuate meanes , which God hath appointed for that end .

A PRAYER FRAMED according to the foure former points .

ALmightie God , & most mercifull Father in Iesus Christ , as thou hast plainly set before vs our cursed estate , Miserie . in the cléere glasse of thy heauenly word : so we beseech thee to open our eies to see it , and pierce our hearts to feele it , by the inward working of thy holy spirit . For we , O Lord , are most vaine and vile creatures , iustly tainted with the rebellion of our first parents , conceiued in sin , bondslaues of Satan ; necessarilie , and yet willinglie seruing diuers lusts , and committing innumerable sinnes against thy Maiestie : whereby we deserue most iustly to endure all miseries in this life , & to be tormented in hel , for euer . But blessed be thy name , O Lord our God : who , when there was no power in vs , Deliuerance . no not so much as any desire or endeuour to get out of this wofull estate , hast made vs see & feele in what case we were , and prouided a most soueraigne remedy for vs , euen thy deare and only begotten sonne , whom thou hast freely offered vnto vs : not onlie kindling in vs a desire to inioy him , but enabling vs , by a true and liuely faith to lay hold vpon him , and to be partakers of al his benefits , to the saluation of our soules . And now , O Lord , that it hath pleased thee , by faith to ioyne vs to thy Sonne Iesus Christ , and by thy spirit to make vs members of his bodie : we humbly beseech thee , by the same spirit , to renew vs daily , according to thine owne image . Pietie . Work in our hearts a daily increase of true faith and repentance ; and in our liues , a holy & comfortable change . O Lord , enable vs , in some good measure , to walke worthy of al thy mercies , and to serue thee , who hast created and chosen vs ; and thy Sonne , who hath redeemed vs from death , and made vs heires of glorie ; and thy blessed spirit , who doth continually sanctifie & keep vs , with faith , feare and zeale , in true holines and righteousnes , al the daies of our life . Finally , seeing of thine infinite goodnes and mercy , Helpes . thou hast appointed diuers excellent and holy meanes for the daily encrease of thy graces in vs , and for the confirming and quickning of vs in a Christian conuersation , we humbly beseech thee to grant all those good meanes vnto vs , and to continue them amongst vs ; giuing vs grace to vse them purely , constantly and zealouslie , to the glory of thy name , profit of our brethren , and saluation of our soules , through Iesus Christ : to whom , with thee O Father , and the holy Ghost , be giuen all honour and glorie for euer . Amen .

A FORME OF EXAMIning such as are to receiue the Lords Supper : diuided into two parts .
The first part .

Q. WHerefore do you desire to receiue the Lords supper ?

A. Because it is the ordinance of God , 1. Cor . 11.24.25 . appointed by him to confirme my faith .

Q. Doe you then find weaknes of faith in your selfe ?

A. I do indeed find that my faith is feeble and needeth strengthning . Mark . 9.24

Q. How perceiue you that ?

A. By my coldnes in prayer , loue , Psal . 116.10 . Rom. 10.14 zeale , repentance , and good works .

Q. How else ?

A. By my feare of death , Phil . 1.23 . 1. Ioh . 2.15 . desire of life , loue of the world , and such like .

Q. These do plainly argue a weaknesse of faith : but haue you faith at all or no ?

A. Yea : 2. Cor . 5.1 . for I am assuredly perswaded of my owne saluation by Iesus Christ alone .

Q. What is the ground of your perswasion ?

A. The ground of my perswasion is the free and gratious promise of God reuealed in the Gospell . Rom. 10.17

Q. What is that promise ?

A. That whosoeuer beleeueth in the onely begotten sonne of God , Ioh . 3.16 . shal not perish , but haue euerlasting life .

Q. Why do you beleeue this promise ?

2. Cor . 1.28 Heb . 11.19 A. Because God , who hath made it , is both able and faithfull to performe it .

Q. God in his own nature is almightie , and most true : but what assurance haue you hereof ?

Heb . 6.12 . Rom. 4.11 . A. His word is sufficient : yet tendring my infirmitie , he hath bound it with an oath , and set to his seale .

Q. How doth he set to his seale ?

Rom. 4.11 . A. By the ministery of the Sacraments , which the Apostle calleth seales of the righteousnesse of faith .

Q. Why doth he call them so ?

A. Because thereby God doth assure me ( and euery faithfull receiuer ) that Christ is mine , 1. Cor . 1.11 2.25 . with all his benefits .

Q. What be the benefits , which the faithfull receiue by Christ ?

A. They be sixe ; election , redemption , 1. Cor . 3.30 iustification , sanctification , adoption , and intercession .

Q. What is election ? Election .

A. Our being chosen of God the Father , in Iesus Christ , Ephes . 1.4 . to life euerlasting , before all eternitie .

Q. What is redemption ?

A. Redemption . Luk . 7.47 . Col. 2.14.15 . Our deliuerance from all our enemies , sinne , death and hell .

Q What is iustification ?

A. Our being accounted perfectly righteous in the sight of God . Iustification . Phil . 3.9 .

Q. What is sanctification ? Sanctification .

A. Our holines , begun in this life ; and to be perfected in the life to come . Apoc . 20.6 . Luke 1.75 Mortification . Viuification . Rom. 6.11 .

Q. What be the parts of sanctification ?

A. Two : whereof the first is the Spirits killing of sinne in vs ; and the other , his enabling of vs to walke in newnes of life .

Q. What is adoption ? Adoption .

A. Our being receiued into the number of Gods children , Ioh . 1.12 . Ephes . 1.5 . 1. Iohn 3.1 and into the inheritance of his kingdome .

Q. What is intercession Intercession . or mediation ?

A. The vertue and effect of Christs death and obedience ; Heb . 2.17 . & . 4.14 . whereof all the faithfull are partakers .

Q. Why doth the Apostle say , that Christ is made vnto vs of God , Wisdome ? Wisedome .

1. Cor . 1.30.31 . 1. Cor . 6.7 Rom. 5. A. Both because our chiefe wisdome is to know him ; and also because , as his righteousnesse , so his wisdome is counted ours that beleeue in him .

Q. Why doth he set redemption in the last place , seeing Christ wrought it first ?

Luke 21.28 . Rom. 8.23 . A. Because we do not fully enioy the fruit of our redemption , which is , to be freed from all miserie , till after death .

Q. And are you sure to bee confirmed in all these , by the vse of this Sacrament ?

Rom. 10.13 . Act. 8.39 . A. Yea verily : for God will not faile to blesse his owne ordinance , to euery one that vseth it aright .

Q. Who are they ?

Mark . 3.6.7.8.9 . A. Only such as haue knowledge of Religion , faith in Christ , repentance for their sins , with loue to God and all men , euen their enemies .

Q. Haue you all these ?

Rom. 3.6 . 1. Cor . 13.9 . A. Yea , I thanke my God , in some competent measure : though my wants be many and great .

Q. What hold you concerning God ?

Knowledge of God A. That he being infinit , aswell in his iustice , as in his mercy , Rom. 6.23 . cannot but punish sinne with all seueritie .

Q. What hold you concerning man ?

Knowledge of man . A. That he being by nature a miserable sinner , cannot escape this seuerity of God , without some singular and soueraigne remedie .

Q. What hold you concerning Christ ?

A. Christ . Acts. 4.12 . That there was none in heauen or earth but he alone , that could both satisfie the iustice of God , and make vs partakers of his mercy .

Q. What hold you concerning the holy Ghost ?

A. Holy Ghost . 1. Cor . 6.15.19 . That by him we are ioyned to Christ , as members of his bodie , and made partakers of all his benefits .

Q. What hold you concerning Faith ?

A. Faith . Ioh . 1.12 . & 3.14.15 . That it is the instrument of the holy Ghost , whereby I lay hold vpon Christ .

Q. What thinke you of repentance ?

A. Repentance Luk . 7.37.18 . &c. That wheresoeuer true Repentance is , there is true faith also .

Q. What thinke you of faith ? Faith .

2. Cor . 13.5.6 . A. That whosoeuer hath true faith , is a liuely member of Iesus Christ .

Q. What thinke you of Iesus Christ ?

Christ . Iohn 1.12 . A. That euery member of Iesus Christ is the child of God , and heire of his heauenly kingdome .

Q. What conclusion gather you from hence ?

Rom. 9.1 . Repentance . A. That whosoeuer doth truly repent , shall neuer perish , but be saued euerlastingly .

Q. How appeareth true repentance ?

Mat . 26.75 Luk . 7.37 . A By the vnfained sorrow for and hatred of euery knowne sin , both in others , and specially in our selues .

Perseuerance . Phil . 1.6 . Q. How know you that you shall perseuere ?

A. Because he , that hath bgun a good worke in me , will increase and continue it to the end .

The second part .

Faith or summe of the Gospell . Q. Let me heare the summe of your faith .

A. I beleeue in God the Father , &c.

Q. How many things doth this ancient and Apostolike confession teach you ?

A. It teacheth me what to beleeue , first concerning God , and secondly concerning the Church of God .

Q. What beleeue you concerning God ?

A. That there is one God , 1. Iohn . 5.7 . and thrée persons ; the Father , the Sonne , and the holy Ghost .

Q. What beleeue you concerning the Father ?

A. Gen. 1.26 . Psal . 73.24 That he made me in the beginning in his owne image , & will guide me for euer to his owne glorie .

Q. What else ?

A. That he hath chosen me , Ephes . 1.3.4.5 . before all beginnings , in Iesus Christ , to be his child : and therefore I am bold to call him Father .

Q. What beleeue you concerning Iesus Christ ?

A. That he is my gratious Lord : 1. Cor . 6.20 . because by his death I am freed from death and sinne : and by his obedience , I haue righteousnesse and life .

Q. What else ?

A. That he maketh most effectuall intercession for me in heauen , whence he shall come in due time , Rom. 8.13 . Rom. 5.5 . to deliuer me from all miserie .

Q. What beleeue you concerning the holy Ghost ?

Ephes . 2.8 . 1. Cor . 3.6 . & 12.4 . A. That he being the power of God , ioyneth me to God , and maketh mee ( and all Gods elect ) partakers of the mercie of the Father , and of the merit of the Sonne .

Q. What else ?

A. That it is he alone , who worketh all spirituall graces in mee , and that maketh all good meanes profitable vnto me .

Q. What beleeue you concerning the Church ?

Gen. 4.3.26 . Rom. 11.14 . A. That there is , and hath bin from the beginning a number , whom the Father hath chosen , and the Sonne redeemed , and whom the holy Ghost doth sanctifie , and glorifie for euer .

Q. What else ?

Act. 24.25 . 2. Cor . 5. A. That I being one of the number , enioy the forgiuenesse of my sins , in this life ; and that in the end of the world , my bodie shall rise , and be ioyned to my soule , in eternall happines .

Q. Seeing the rule of loue is the law of God Law of God . contained in the ten Commandements , rehearse the words .

A. I am the Lord thy God , &c.

Q. What doe these ten Commandements teach vs in generall ?

A. Tit . 2.11.12 . &c. That denying all vngodlinesse and worldly lusts , we liue soberlie , righteouslie and godly in this present world .

Q. How many of them concerne the worship and seruice of God ?

A. The foure first : Iohn 4 23.24 . wherein I am charged to yéeld vnto God alone , the true and spirituall worship which hée hath prescribed in his word .

Q. What be the chiefe branches of Gods true worship ?

A. They are chiefely fiue : that is , faith , loue , feare , thankfulnes , & praier .

Q. How must you loue God ?

A. Vnfainedly , with all my heart , Mar. 12.30 soule , thought and strength .

Q. How may this loue appeare ?

A. If I cleaue vnto him with my heart worship him with my body , Deut . 6.13 Iosua 22.5 Esa . 58.13 . honor him with my tongue and life , and carefully keepe his Sabbaths .

Q. What is the summe of the other sixe Commandements ?

Mat . 7.12 . A. That whatsoeuer I would that men should doe vnto me , euen so I do vnto them ; and that I loue my neighbour as my selfe .

Q. How may this loue appeare ?

Com . 5. A. If I reuerence and respect euery man according to his calling , yeeres , gifts , and coniunction with my selfe .

Q. How else ?

Com . 6.7.8.9.10 . A. If I do tender his life and euery thing that is deare vnto him ; that I doe not willinglie so much as let my thoughts wander to his hurt .

Q. Whence come the graces of knowledge , faith , repentance , and loue ?

Iam . 1.17 . A. From God my heauenly Father , the constant author and fountaine of all good things .

Q. Doth he giue them to all men ?

Vers . 5.6 . A. No : But to them that aske in faith , he giueth liberally , and vpbraideth them not .

Q. Haue you any sound paterne of holy prayer ?

A. There bee many in the Scriptures : Gen. 24.12 & 32.9 . &c. but none comparable to the Lords prayer .

Q. Rehearse it .

A. Our Father which art in heauen , &c.

Q. Need you vse no other forme , but this ?

A. Yes : Acts 4.24 . But I must haue an eye to this : and may fruitfully shut vp my particular prayers in this .

Q. Why so ?

A. Matth . 6.6.7.8 . Because it containeth whatsoeuer concerneth the glory of God , good of his Church , comfort of my bodie , and saluation of my soule .

Q. Are the Creed and Commandements to be vsed as prayers ?

A. No. But in praying , we are to craue strength to beleeue that , which is contained in the Creed ; and to practise that , which is contained in the Commandements .

ANOTHER FAMILIAR manner of instruction , the most plaine and easie of all the rest , which parents and masters may with great fruit propound to their families , especially before the Communion .

Q. Rehearse the Commandements .

Law shewing mans miserie , and the rule of his life . A. I Am the Lord thy God , which haue brought thee out of the land of Egypt , out of the house of bondage .

1 Thou shalt haue none other Gods but me .

2 Thou shalt not make to thy selfe any grauen image , nor the likenes of any thing , that is in heauen aboue , or in the earth beneath , or in the water vnder the earth : Thou shalt not bow downe to them , nor worship them : For I the Lord thy God am a iealous God , and visit the sins of the fathers , vpon the children , vnto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me ; and shew mercie vnto thousands in them that loue mee and keepe my Commandements .

3 Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vaine . For the Lord will not hold him guiltlesse , that taketh his name in vaine .

4 Remember that thou kéepe holy the Sabbath day . Six daies shalt thou labour , and do al that thou hast to do : but the seuenth day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God : in it thou shalt doe no manner of work , thou , and thy son , and thy daughter , thy man-seruant , and thy maid-seruant , thy cattell , and thy stranger that is within thy gates . For in sixe daies the Lord made heauen and earth , the sea , and all that in them is , and rested the seuenth day . Wherefore the Lord blessed the seuenth day , and hallowed it .

5 Honour thy father and thy mother ; that thy daies may bee long in the land , which the Lord thy God giueth thee .

6 Thou shalt doe no murther .

7 Thou shalt not commit adultery .

8 Thou shalt not steale .

9 Thou shalt not beare false witnesse against thy neighbour .

10 Thou shalt not couet thy neighbours house , thou shalt not couet thy neighbours wife , nor his seruant , nor his maid , nor his oxe , nor his asse , nor any thing that is his .

Q. Can you keepe all these Commandements ?

The command . A. No : I breake them daily , in thought , word , and déede .

Q. How so ?

Rom. 7.14 . A. Because the law of God is spirituall , and I am carnall , sold vnder sinne .

Q. What doe they deserue that keep not the law of God ?

Deu 27.26 A. The curse of God , with all the miseries of this life , and the punishment of hell fire euer after .

Q. By what meanes , or by whom may we hope to haue deliuerance from this curse ?

A. Onely by Iesus Christ , the eternall Sonne of God .

Q. Shall all men haue deliuerance by him ? The remedie .

1 Gal. 4.1 . Acts 4.12 . A. No : but onely such as beléeue in him .

Q. What is it to beleeue in Christ ?

A. To be truely perswaded in hart , Faith . that by him our sinnes are forgiuen , and we made the Children of God .

Q. Rehearse the summe of your beleefe .

A. I Beléeue in God the Father Almightie , Faith . maker of heauen and earth . And in Iesus Christ , his onely son our Lord : which was conceiued by the holy Ghost ; borne of the virgin Mary , suffered vnder Pontius Pilate , was crucified , dead , and buried , he descended into hell . The third day he rose againe from the dead . He ascended into heauen , and sitteth at the right hand of God , the Father Almightie . From thence he shall come to iudge the quicke and the dead . I beléeue in the holy Ghost . The holy Catholike Church . The communion of Saints . The forgiuenesse of sinnes . The resurrection of the bodie . And the life euerlasting . Amen .

Q. How doe men come by faith ?

A. By the working of the holy Ghost , Helpes . through the preaching of the word .

Q. How are they confirmed and strengthened in faith ?

A. By the same word , and also by the Sacraments .

Q How many Sacraments be there ?

Sacraments . A. Two : Baptisme , and the Lords Supper .

Q. What doth Baptisme teach and assure vs of ?

A. That our sins are forgiuen , and washed away by the sufferings and bloodshed of Iesus Christ : euen as the body is washed and clensed by water .

Q. What doth the Lords Supper teach and assure vs of ?

A. That , by the same Iesus Christ , our soules are nourished to eternall life : euen as the bodie is fed , by bread and wine , to a temporall life .

Q. What means must we vse besides ?

Prayer . A. One speciall meanes that we are daily to vse , is faith and hearty prayer to God , in the name of Iesus Christ .

Q. Rehearse the prayer , that Iesus Christ hath taught vs.

A. OVr Father which art in heauen , hallowed be thy name . Thy kingdome come . Thy will bée 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 leade vs not into temptation : but deliuer vs from euill . For thine is the kingdome , the power , and the glorie , for euer and euer . Amen .

Q. How many petitions be there in this prayer ?

A. Sixe . The three first whereof concerne the glorie of God .

Q. What do the three last concerne ?

A. The necessities of our owne soules and bodies .

Q. Why doe we pray first that God may be glorified ?

A. To teach vs , that we are to prefer the glorie of God , before our own saluation .

Certaine Rules for the direction of a Christian life .

KEepe a most narrow watch ouer thine owne heart , words , Watchfullnesse . and déeds , Mar. 14.42 Luk . 12.35 &c. Redeeming the time . Ephe . 5.25 Col. 4.5 . continually ; not giuing any liberty to wandring thoughts & lusts .

2 Be wise and carefull to redéeme the time which hath been wickedlie , idely , or vnprofitably spent : bestowing no more time in worldly matters , then must needs .

Lie downe and arise with God . Psal . 3.5 . & 4.8 . & 37.5 . 3 At night lie downe in peace , hauing blessed God for his benefits , and reconciled thy selfe to him for the sins of the day past . In the morning let him haue the first place in thy heart , committing thy selfe and all thy waies to his gracious gouernement , and consecrating them wholly to his glorie .

Let prayer go before all businesse . Col. 3.17 . Gen. 24.12 4 Go to no place , frequent no company , vndertake no busines , study , or trauell whatsoeuer , without heartie prayer to God , in the name of Iesus Christ , for the obtaining of his holy Spirit and mercifull protection .

Let prayer be ioyned with all blessing . 1. Tim . 4.4.5 . Mat . 14.19 5 In like maner forget not to performe this holy duty , when thou receiuest any mercy from God : whether it be food , apparell , recreation , or any other thing , tending to the health of thy body , or comfort of thy soule : neither be so bold , as to deale with any of the creatures of God , till thou hast praied and praised the Creator therof .

6 As praier must go before , Let prayer follow the fruition of all Gods benefits . Mat . 26.33 and accompanie al the blessings of God , so it must follow the fruition of them . And therefore , herein let euery Christian set before him the example of Christ and his Apostles , who after they had receiued their bodily & spirituall food , and enioyed the company one of another , gaue thanks to God the Father .

7 And though prayer be a spirituall thing , In praying vse the tongue and voice . Psal . 16.9 . & 30 12. & 3.4 . and consist chiefely in the attention and earnestnes of the minde : yet , for the better quickening of the heart and affections , let the tongue and voice be vsed as oft as conueniently thou maist , lest dulnesse and coldnesse creepe vpon thée .

8 If your calling and estate will possiblie beare it , Set aside some time for godly exercises . Gen. ● . 63 Dan . 5.10 . Acts 12 9. let some time of the day be set apart for priuat prayer , meditation , and reading of the scripture , or some other choice booke , that may best further you in the knowledge and practise of true godlinesse .

Things to be thought vpon . Iere . 12.1.2.3 . Abac . 1.3 . Mat . 25.31 &c. 9 Bend your mind to thinke often and earnestly vpon the workes of God : as his creating , and gouerning the world , prospering or punishing the wicked , blessing or correcting his children in this life , with the eternall torment appointed for the one , and the vnspeakeable glory laid vp for the other .

The worke of our redemption a speciall worke . 1. Cor . 2.6.7.8.9 . 1. Pet . 1.12 . 10 But , aboue all the workes of God , thinke vpon the glorious and gratious worke of thy redemption by Iesus Christ ; a mysterie that the holy Angels doe admire , and desire to prie into : herein behold the swéet harmonie and happie coniunction of the infinit mercy and iustice of God méeting together ; and take comfort and delight herein , with thankesgiuing .

The liues and deaths of other , but especially of thy selfe , must be thought vpon . Heb . 12.1.2 Ioh . 21.25 . 11 Marke the life and behauiour of the wicked , to auoid their steps ; and of the godly , to prouoke thy selfe to a holy emulation of the like course : marke also their death with like diligence , and think seriously vpon thine owne death , how thou must shortly lie downe in the dust , and part with whatsoeuer delight thou doest héere enioy ; that this may bréed in thée a contempt of the world , and a longing after the life to come .

12 Obserue daily how sinne dieth , 1. The . 5.22 Reu . 2.4 . Our couenant made with God must be renewed . and is weakned in thee , and be carefull to shun one sinne , as well as another : and lose not thy first loue ( as the most part doe ) and delight in the word and worship of God , and in the fellowship of his Saints ; but mourne and striue against thy sinnes , renew thy couenant with God , for that end .

13 When you be in company , Nehe . 9.38 In company beware of breaking the third and ninth commandement . haue a care to receiue and doe good , and not hurt , either by your speech or silence , countenance or example : and auoid , as rocks , those common sins against the third and ninth Commandement . Let not God , or any word or work of his be mentioned but with feare , or any man named but with loue and due regard of that royall law , Whatsoeeuer ye would , &c.

14 Among all other things séeke to approue thy selfe to God , Mens walking in their particular callings , the touchstone of religion . Mat . 23.25 26.27.28 . Ierem . 7.9.10.11 . Ephe . 5.35 & 6.5.6.7.8.9 . his children , and thine owne conscience , touching thy charge and behauiour in that particular place & calling wherein God hath set thée , and towards those persons with whom God hath ioyned thee : as , if thou be a seruant , in obeying thy master , seruing him with feare and singlenes of heart : if a master , in guiding thy familie according to the word : if a husband , in louing thy wife without bitternes : if a wife , in reuerencing thy husband .

Take heede of performing holy duties for fashion sake . Heb . 3.12 . Esa . 1.11.14 Mat . 15.8 . Reu . 3.15 . 15 Finally , because the corrupt nature of man is so prone to prophanenesse and hypocrisie , that when men are once come so far as to vse the outward exercises of religion ( without marking in what manner , with what feeling , fruit and profit to their soules they vse the same ) they please themselues : take heede of this deceit of Satan , and keepe thy soule with all diligence that these duties be not made matters of course and custome , without care and conscience to grow better thereby .

FINIS .