A familiar and Christian instruction Containing a collection of diuerse and sundrie places of Scripture, seruinge for an exposition vpon the Lordes prayer, the Creede, the tenne commaundementes, the Sacraments, together with the offices and duties of eche Christian towardes another. Translated out of the french by G.C.

A FAMILIAR AND CHRISTIAN instruction .

FOrasmuche as the Lordes prayer , the beliefe , called the Apostles creede , & the ten commaundements giuen vnto Moses in two tables of stone , contayninge the whole summe of all that we ought to pray for , beleeue , doe , or leaue vndone , we thought it not amisse to set them here down in order , accordinge vnto theire fourme and tenour , before we proceede in the exposition of eche of thē , which we wil afterward deuide by articles , opening and declaringe euery one of them apart , with some necessary and profitable additions , as briefly as we may : so that by these meanes the reader may the better vnderstand and beare in mynd the matter & contentes of those things which in this litle collection , shal be handled more at large .

THE LORDES PRAYER .

OVR father which arte in heauen , halowed be thy name , thy kingdome come , thy will be done , in earth as it is in heauen :

The three first articles do commaunde vs to haue the onely glory of God before our eyes in all our prayers and petitions .

Giue vs this day our daily bread and forgiue vs our trespasses , as we forgeue 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 glory , for euer and euer . Amen .

These three last articles doe desire of God those thinges which do preserue in this life ; and helpe our necessities , to the ende that his glorye might soe much the more shine in vs.

THE APOSTLES CREEDE .

I Beleeue in God the father almightie , maker of heauen and earth .

The Christian man beleeueth that there is one onely God , inuisible , euerlasting , eternall , without beginning or end : almightie , wholy wise , wholy good , wholy iust , wholy mercifull , and wholy perfect , creator of all creatures .

And in Iesus Christ his onely sonne our Lord :

All the partes of our saluation are comprehended and comprised in Iesus Christ . If we seeke for saluation , the onely name of Iesus doth tech vs that it is in him . If we desire the giftes of the holy Ghost we shal finde them in his vnction , if we seeke for strength , it is in his Lordship .

Who was conceaued by the holy Ghost , borne of the virgin Mary .

Yf we would finde meekenesse , and gentlenesse , his natiuitie doeth offer it vnto vs , by the which he was made like vnto vs , ( sinne onelie excepted ) to learne to be pitifull .

Suffred vnder Pontius Pilate , was crucified , dead and buried : he descended into hell .

In his condemnation we haue our absolution : in his crosse , our curse is wiped out : and the satisfaction we haue in his sacrifice : and purging in his bloud . The mortification of our flesh , doth consist in his Sepulcher : and our reconciliation , in his descention into hell .

He rose againe the third day from death :

The newenesse of life doth consist in his resurrection , & hope of immortalitie .

He ascended into Heauen , & sitteth on the right hand of God the father almightie :

By his ascention , the heauenly heritage is assured vs , if we seeke for help and comfort , and the aboundance of all richesse , we haue it in his kingedome .

And from thence he shall come to iudge the quicke & the dead .

Yf we desire to waite for the iudgement in safetie , we haue this good turne , inasmuch as he himselfe is our iudge .

I beleeue in the holy Ghost , the holy Catholike church : the Communion of Saintes : the forgiuenesse of sinnes : the resurrection of the bodie , and the life euerlastinge .

In summe , sith that the treasures of all richesse , are in Iesus Christ , we must draw them from thence that we may be replenished & refreshed and not from elsewhere .

THE TEN COMMAVNDEMENTES .

The first table .

HEarken and take heede Israell : I am the Lorde thy God , which brought thee out of the land af Egipt out of the house of bondage .

Thou shalt haue none other Gods before me .

He would that all impietie and superstition being put aside and separated farre from vs , we should honoure him with a true and sincere loue of godlinesse .

Thou shalt make thee no grauen image nor the likenesse of any thing ether in heauen aboue , or in the earth heneath , or in the waters vnder the earthe : thou shalt not bow downe to thē nor worship them : for I am the Lord thy God a ielous God visiting the sinnes of the fathers vpon their children vnto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me : and do shew mercie vnto two thousand generations of them that loue me and keepe my commaundements .

In withdraweinge vs from all carnall actions he leadeth vs vnto the right seruice due vnto him , to witte spirituall , and that which he himselfe hath ordained .

Thou shalt not take the name of the Lorde thy God in vaine : for he will not holde him guiltlesse that taketh his name in vayne .

Herby he wold haue the maiesty of his name to be sanctified & halowed of vs & not prophaned through contempt or want of due reuerence

Remember to kepe holie the Sabaoth day , six daies shalt thou labour , and do all thy worke , but the seuenth day is the rest of the Lord thy God : thou shalt do no worke in it , nether thou nor thy sonne , nor thy daughter , nor thy seruaunt , nor thy handemayde , nor thine oxe , nor thine asse , nor the straunger that is within thy gates : for in six dayes the Lord made heauen and earth ; and all that is in them , and the seuenth day he rested : wherfore he hath blessed the day of rest , and hath made it holy to himselfe .

The end and scope of this commaundement is , that we being dead vnto our owne affections and workes , should meditate on the kingedome of God , and excercise our selues therein accordinge to the meanes which he hath , ordained and appointed .

THE SECOND TABLE .

HOnour thy father and thy mother that thy dayes may be longe vppon the earth which the lord thy God hath giuen thee .

By this he would that the orders & degrees which he hath constituted , be kept and obserued : in doing due reuerence vnto those which he hath ordained superiours .

Thou shalt do no murther .

He forbiddeth all violence , iniurie , and hurte , by the which the bodies of our neighboures are harmed .

Thou shalt not commit adulterie .

That we be not polluted with anie filthinesse or inordinate lust of the flesh .

Thou shalt not steale .

He forbiddethe vs to scrape vnto our selues our neighbours goodes : knowing that whatsoeuer any one doth possesse , it is not by hap-hazard , but by the disposinge & distribution of our soueraigne Lord and maister .

Thou shalt not beare false witnesse against thy neighbour .

He will that wee keepe the truthe without dissembling , that we doe not hurte the good name and renowme of any man : either by malicious detractions or false reports : or that we shoulde endomage any one in his substance and goodes by lying and euill dealing .

Thou shalt not couuet thy neighbours house : thou shalt not couuet thy neighbours wife , nor his seruaunt , nor his maide , nor his oxe , nor his asse , nor any thing which is his .

He would not haue any thought in our minde to moue our harts to concupiscence , which might bring any detrement or domage to our neighbour .

CONCERNING PRAYR .

This foundation and grounde being laide , that sith we are so corrupted that we can not so much as thinke a good thought , if God doe not giue it vnto vs : and seeing that he hath promised to giue vs whatsoeuer we shall desire and aske of him in his sonnes name , we will begine with the Lords prayer : but before the exposition and handeling thereof , we will intreate of certaine pointes verie profitable and necessarie to be knowen , afore we can rightly make our prayers , whereof the first shal be

THAT WE OVGHT to praye .

Luke . 18.1 . We ought alwayes to pray & not to be weary .

Luke . 21.36 . Watch therefore and pray continually , that thou may be worthy to escape all these thinges that shall come to passe , and that ye may stande before the sonne of man .

Luke . 22.40 . Pray least ye enter into temptation .

Ephes . 6.18 . And pray alwayes with all manner of prayer and supplication in the spirite and watch thereunto with all perseuerance and supplication for all Saincts . 19. And for me that vttoraunce may be giuen vnto me , that I may open my mouth boldly to publish the secret of the Gospell , 20. Whereof I am the embassadour in bondes , that therein I may speake boldly , as I ought to speake .

Colos . 4.2 . Continue in praier , & watch in the same with thanks giuing . 3. Praiing also for vs , that God may open vnto vs , the doore of vtterance , to speake the misterie of Christ : wherfor I am also in bondes .

1. Thes . 5.17 . Praie continually . 18. In all thinges giue thankes for this is the will of God in Christ Iesus toward you .

1. Timoth . 2.1 . I exhorte therefore , that first of all , supplications , prayers , intercessions , and giuing of thankes be made for all men . 2. For Kinges & for all that are in authoritie , that we may leade a quiet and peaceable life , in all godlines and honestie .

Iames . 5.13 . Is any among you afflicted ? let him pray . Is any merie ? let him sing . 14. Is any sicke amonge you ? let him call for the elders of the Church , and let them pray for him , and anointe him with oyle in the name of the Lorde . Item . 15. & 16.

1. Pet . 4.7 . Nowe the ende of all thinges is at hande : Be ye therefore sober and watch in prayer ,

Besides the expresse commaundement that we haue to praye vnto God , the miserable estate and condition wherein we are , ought to solicite and prouoke vs therunto : being oppressed with so many necessities , pouerties , miseries , and wrapped & euen ouerwhelmed with so many euills and so many misfortunes , one euery side inuironed with innumerable assaults , in daunger of many perills , and hauing at our feete many and infinite daungers , which Satan doth lay before vs. In such a captiuitie , alas ! what can we doe but crie and call on him which therein can helpe vs ? we , we I say , which are very fraile , and on euery side enuironed & beset with infirmities ? moreouer although there were no Satan , nor any other enemie to wage warre and battle against vs , & albeit we of our selues coulde remedie all our temporall necessities and surmount all the assaultes which may happen vnto vs in this worlde : Notwithstanding we are solde vnder sinne , that is , as slaues and bondmen we are tyed vnto sinne , gouerned , led , and conducted by her domination . In such sort , that all our minde , all our hart , all our thoughts & cogitations , all our affections and operations , are wholy addicted to sinne and iniquitie , we are not sufficient of ability to thinke any thing of our selues , as of our selues , but all our sufficiency & abilitie is of God for it is God that doth cause in vs both the will and the deede according vnto his good pleasure : for I do not approue that which I doe sith I do not that which I would , but that I hate . The rewarde of sinne is death , and the sting of death is sinne , that is , through our sinnes we offende and stirre vp God against vs , we prouoke his wrath & indignation , yea his curse and malediction , and o●r eternall damnation . What else therfore remaineth vnto vs , but stil to be in sinne and death , vnlesse he which is our sufficiencie and ability which can giue vnto vs both the will and the accomplishment therof and to whome it only belongeth to pardon sinnes vnlesse he I say be sauourable and through his gracecious goodnes be merciful vnto vs ? we ought therefore to pray , that of his mercie he woulde pardon and forgiue vs our sinnes , withholding the hande of his iustice and anger which we haue well deserued , and that through his power he woulde deliuer vs from the hande of the Diuell , in taming our flesh and our euill affections , & that of his bountifulnes and liberalitie he woulde giue vs all thinges necessarie .

TO ONE GOD .

Exo . 20.3 . Deut . 5.7 . Thou shalt haue no other Gods before me .

Deut . 4 29. But if from thence thou shalt seeke the Lord thy God , thou shalt find him if thou seeke him with all thine hart , and with all thy soule . Deut . 6.12 . Beware lest thou forget the Lord which brought the out of the land of Egypt out of the house of bondage . 13. Thou shalt feare the Lord thy God , and serue him , and shalt swere by his name . 14. Ye shall not walke after other Gods , after any of the Gods of the people that are rounde about you . 15. ( For the Lord thy God , is a ielous God among you ) least the wrath of the Lord thy God be kindled against thee , and destroy thee from the face of the earth .

1. King 9 , 6. But if ye and your children turne away from me , and will not keepe my commaundementes , & my statutes ( which I haue set before you ) but goe and serue other Gods , and worship them . 7. Then will I cut of Israell from the lande .

2. Kings . 1.16 . And he saide vnto him , thus saith the Lorde , because thou hast sent messengers to inquire of Baalzebub the God of Ekron ( was it not because there was no God in Israell to inquire of his worde ) therefore thou shalt not come downe of thy bedde , on which thou arte gone vp , but shalt die the death .

Esa . 45.21 . Am not I the Lord ? and there is none other God beside me , a iust God and a sauiour , there is none beside me . 22. Looke vnto me , and ye shal be saued : all the ends of the earth shal be saued : For I am God & there is none other . 23. I haue sworne by my selfe : The word is gone out of my mouth in righteousnes and shalt not returne : That euery knee shall bow vnto me & euery tongue shall sweere by me .

Ierem . 17.5 . Thus saith the Lorde , cursed be the man , that trusteth in man , and maketh flesh his arme , and withdraweth his hart from the Lord . 7. Blessed be the man that trusteth in the Lord and whose hope the Lorde is .

Math . 4.10 . Auoide Satan : for it is written , Thou shalt worship the Lorde thy God , and him onely shalt thou serue .

When the holy Scripture forbiddeth vs , to pray and to call vpon any other , but vpon one only God , we must not simply vnderstande that we ought not to make our request but to God only : for we reade that requests haue oftentimes bene made to men . But it must be vnderstoode of prayer , which is made to him , vnto whom we haue our recourse , as vnto our onely hope , and as vnto him which is author of all goodnes , and which hath al power : that which can not be giuen or attributed to any other but to God alone , without manifest sacrelege . Nowe when we request men it is far after an other sort : for it is onely as the instrumentes & seruaunts of God to whom he hath giuen power and the meanes to helpe vs. The which ought well to be marked in all prayers made to creatures lest that thinking to be religious we become superstitious in ouershadowing & darkening the glorie of God . Aboue all we ought to take heede lest we fal into the errour of the Papistes and paganes , which do well confesse that which now we speake of , and in the meane time do bring in the inuocation of the dead , couering and clokinge themselues with their distinction , to wit , that they do not cal on thē as on the soueraigne Lord , for they leaue to God ( saye they ) his soueraignitie : But it is a thinge most sure and certaine that their imagination is ioyned with Idolatry , forasmuch as they do transport the glory of God alone to manie : And to this purpose ought the examples of the holie Patriarkes , Prophets , and Apostles to serue for vs which neuer did once call vpon Adam , or Abell , or Enoch , or Noe , or Abraham , or Isaacke , or Iacob , or anie of their predecessors , but God onely . And the holy scripture maketh no mention but that the inuocations or supplications at anie time were adressed to God alone . And hereunto also maketh the example and doctrine of our Lord Iesus Christ , the example : for he neuer cried but to his father . The doctrine : for giuing vs the fourme & manner of prayer , he doth teach vs to addresse our selues to his father alone : When ye shall pray , ye shall saye , Our father &c. But if that wee might addresse our selues vnto the dead , he ought , for distinctions sake to say , when ye shall pray to God , or , &c. yea shall say &c. In that he hath not set downe any distinction of prayers , either he was not well aduised ( which is most detestable blasphemie : ) or else he doeth sufficiently shew that none other ought to be called vpon but God alone .

FOR IT IS TO DOE him honour and seruice ,

Psal . 50.14 . Offer vnto God praise , and pay thy vowes vnto the most high . 15. And call vpon me in the day of trouble , so will I deliuer thee and thou shalt glorifie me . Psal . 116.12 . What shall I render vnto the Lord for his benefites towardes me ? I will take the cuppe of saluation and call vppon the name of the Lord .

Because in prayinge vnto God , besides that we do acknowledg our infirmities , we confesse also that he is almightie , able to help and succour vs. The which confession God doth more esteeme then all sacrifices , and doth preferre it before all other honoures which we can doe vnto him . He therefore that calleth not vpon God , doth spoile and rob God of the honour & glorie which is dew vnto him .

WITHOVT OPINION of our owne righteousnes .

Psal . 34.18 . The Lorde is neere vnto them that are of a contrite hart , and will saue such as be afflicted in spirite .

Psal . 51.17 . The sacrifices of God are a contrite spirite . a contrite and a broken hart , O God thou wilt not despise .

Psal . 7.9.8 . Remember not against vs the former iniquites , but make hast and let thy tender mercies preuent vs : for we are in great miserie . 9. Helpe vs , O God of our saluation for the glorie of thy name , and deliuer vs , and be mercifull vnto our sinnes for thy name sake .

Esa . 57.15 . For thus sayth he , that is hie and excellent , he that inhabiteth the eternitie , whose name is the holy one , I dwell in the hie and holy place with him also which is of a contrite and humble spirit , to reuiue the spirite of the humble , & to giue life to them that are of a contrit heart .

Esa . 66.2 . For all these thinges hath my hande made , and all these things haue bene , saith the Lorde : and to him will I looke , euen to him that is poorer , and of a contrite spirite and trembleth at my wordes .

Daniel . 9.18 . O my God , encline thine e●re and heare : open thine eyes and beholde our desolations , and the citie whereupon thy name is called : for we not present our supplications before thee of our owne righteousnes , but of thy great tender mercies .

1. Pet . 5.5 . Likewise ye yongers , subsubmit your selues vnto the elders , and submit your selues euery man , one to an other : decke your selues inwardly in lowlines of minde : for God resisteth the proude , and giueth grace to the humble 6 Humble your selues therefore vnder the mightie hand of God , that he may exalt you in due time . 7. Cast all your care on him : for he careth for you .

BVT IN THE NAME of his sonne Iesus Christ .

Mat . 18.19 Againe , verely I say vnto you , that if two of you shal agre in earth vpon any thing , whatsoeuer they shal desire it shall be giuen them of my father which is in heauen . 20. For where two or thre are gathered togeather in my name there am I in the middest of them .

Ihon . 14.13 . And whatsoeuer ye aske in my name , that will I doe , that the father may be glorified in the sonne . 14. If ye shall aske any thing in my name I will doe it .

Ioh 16.23 . Verely , verely , I say vnto you , whatsoeuer ye shall aske the father in my name he will giue it you .

Rom. 1.8 . First I thanke my God through Christ for you all , because your faith is published throughout the whole worlde .

Ephes . 3.12 . By whome we haue boldnes , and entrance with confidence by faith in him . 5.20 . Giuing thankes all wayes for all thinges to God euen the father , in the Name of our Lorde Iesus Christ .

Heb . 7.25 . Wherefore , he is able also perfectly to saue them that come vnto God by him , seeing he euer liueth , to make intercession for them . Item . 13.15 . Let vs therefore by him offer the s●crifice of praise alwayes to God , that is the fruit of the lippes , which confesse his name

FOR HE IS OVR Mediatour .

Rom. 8.3.4 . Who shall condeme it is Christ which is dead , yea or rather , which is risen againe , who is also at the right hande of God , and maketh requeste also for vs.

1. Timoth . 2.5 . For there is one God and on mediatour betweene God and man , which is the man Christ Iesus . 6. Who gaue himselfe a ransome for all men , to be a testimonie in due time .

Heb . 9.15 . And for this cause he 〈◇〉 the mediatoure of the new testament , that through death , which was for the redemption of the transgressions that were in the former testament , they which were called , might receaue the promise of eternall inheritaunce . Item 2.24 . For Christ is not entred into the holy places that are made with handes , which are similitudes of the true sanctuarie : But is entred into verie heauen to appeare now in the sight of God for vs.

1. Iohn . 2.1 . And if anie man sinne we haue an aduocate with the father , Iesus Christ the iust . 2. And he is the reconciliation for our sinnes , and not for ours onely , but also for the sinners of the whole worlde .

Then do we pray in the name of Iesus Christ when as we laie aside all opinion of ryghteousnesse and worthinesse , and do acknowledge our owne vnworthinesse , we doe poure out our praiers vpon the onely merite of the death and passion of our Lord Iesus Christ , and vpon the intercession which he now maketh in heauen for vs , hauing pierced the heauens , sitting at the right hand of God his father , appearing alwaies in his sight for vs , not vtterly to destroy and lose vs , nor to prouoke God against vs , but to appease him , to excuse vs , to saue vs , and to cause vs to obtayne that , which we desire of him . For seing all men are vnworthy to come before God and to present them selues before his face : to the end that he might lift vs out of that confusion , which we haue or should haue in our selues , the father of heauen hath giuen his onely sonne our Lord , to be a mediator & aduocate towards him , by whose conduction we might frankelie and freelie approch vnto him , being assured , forasmuch as we haue such an intercessour which in nothinge can be refused of the father , & also that nothinge shall bee denied vs of all that we shall aske in his name . And that the throne of God , is not onelie the throne of maiestie , but also of grace : Before the which we may in the name of such a mediatour and intercessour appeare with all confidence and boldenesse , for to obtaine mercie , & to finde grace and helpe , and all that which is necessary & needeful for vs. Wherefore as it is commaunded vs to ca●● vpon God , and the promise is giuen vnto those which shal cal vpon him that they shal be heard , so is it also expressly commaunded vs to call vpon God in the name of our Lord Iesus Christ .

IN FAITH .

Psal . 22.4 . Our fathers trusted in thee : they trusted and thou diddest deliuer them . 5. They called vpon thee and were deliuered , they trusted in them and were not confounded .

Math . 21.22 . And whatsoeuer ye aske in prayer , if ye beleeue , ye shall receiue it .

Marke 11.24 . Therefore I say vnto you , whatsoeuer ye desire when ye pray , beleeue that ye shall haue it , and it shall be done vnto you .

Rom. 10.13 . For whosoeuer shall call vpon the name of the Lord shall be saued . 14. But how shall they call vppon him , in whom they haue not beleeued ? and how shall they beleeue in him , of whom they haue not heard ? and howe shall they heare without a preacher ?

Rom. 14.13 . And whatsoeuer is not of faith is sinne .

Ephes . 5.3.12 . By whome we haue boldenesse & entrance with confidence by fayth in him .

Hebr . 4.16 . Let vs therefore goe boldely vnto the throne of grace , that we may receiue mercy & find grace to help in time of neede .

Hebr . 10.22 . Let vs draw neare with a true heart in assurance of faith , sprinkled in our heartes from an euill conscience , and washed in our bodies with pure water .

Ia . 1.5 . If anie of you lacke wisdome , let him aske it of God , which giueth to all men liberally and reprocheth no man , and it shall be giuen him . 6. But let him aske in faith and wauer not : for he that wauereth is like the waue of the sea , tossed of the wind and caried away .

These places , and aboue all that of S. Iames , doeth shew sufficiently what it is To pray in faith , and wauer not ( sayth he ) It is then with a full confidence and surenesse that wee ought to call vpon God : for that we may call vpon him we must be assured of his bountie and goodnesse , and be resolued that he will be fau●u●abl● and mercifull vnto 〈◇〉 , and that he will giue vs that which we shall aske of him . And not without a cause that assuraunce is required : for he which doubteth , doth double iniurie to God . First he holdeth not for a certainetie that God is wholy good . Secondarilie he accounteth him not true in his promises . For if he be good , we ought not to doubt that he wil giue vs that , which is necessary and expedient . If he be true he will keepe his promise . But he hath promised that he will heare vs : then without open and manifest iniurie we cannot doubt but that he will heare vs in our praiers . They do also wrong to Iesus Christ , for asmuch as they do put in doubt whether he hath fullie reconciled vs to God his father , and hath brought vs into his fauour and grace . For if we be wholly reconciled vnto him , and the peace be made , how will he refuse vs in our requestes ? Or if he refuse vs , how shall we be throughlie at accord with him ? But forasmuch as the reconciliation is perfect and whole , he will not refuse vs : and as for vs , he hath herein fullie resolued vs.

WE OVGHT TO PRAY with heart .

Deut . 4.29 . But if from thence thou shalt seeke the Lord thy God , thou shalt finde him , if thou seeke him with all thine heart , and with all thy soule .

1. Sam . 17.7 . But the Lord sayde vnto Samuell , looke not vpon his countenance , nor on the hight of his stature , because I haue refused him : for God seeth not as man seeth : for man loketh on the outward appearaunce , but the Lord beholdeth the heart

Isaias . 29.13 . Therefore the Lorde saide . Because this people come neare vnto me with their mouth , and honoure me with their lippes , but haue remoued their heartes farre from me , and their feare towardes me was taught by the precepts of men .

Iohn . 4.13 . But the houre commeth , and now is , when the true worshippers shall worshippe the father in spirit and truthe , for the father requireth euen such to worship him .

1. Cor . 14.15 . What is it then ? I will pray with the spirit , but I will pray also with vnderstandinge . I will singe with the spirit , but I will sing with vnderstandinge also .

SO THAT IT BE NOT in an vnknowne toungue .

1. Cor . 14 14. For if I pray in a straung toungue , my spirit prayeth : but mine vnderstanding is without frute . 15. what is it then ? I will pray . &c.

AND WITH LOVE AND Charitie .

Isa . 58.7 . Is it not to deale thy bread vnto the hungrie , and that thou bringe the poore that wander , vnto thine houses When thou seest the naked , that thou couer him , and hide not thy selfe from thine owne flesh . It is thy neighbour for in him thou seest thy selfe as in a glasse . 8. Then shall thy light breake foorth as the morning , and thine health shall grow speedely : thy righteousnesse shall go before thee , and the glorie of the Lord shall embrace thee . 9. Then shalt thou call and the Lord shall aunswere : thou shalt crie , and he shall say here I am .

Mat . 5.23 . If then thou bringe thie gift to the alter , and there remembrest , that thy brother hath oughte against thee : leaue there thine offringe before the alter , and go thy way : first be reconciled to thy brother , and then come and offer thy gifte . Item 6.12 . Forgiue vs our debtes , as we also forgiue our debtoures .

Marke 11.25 . But when ye shal stand and pray , forgiue , if ye haue any thing against any man , that your father also which is in heauen , may forgiue you your trespasses .

WITH PVRENES OF conscience and amendment of life .

Prouer . 1.27 . When your feare cometh like sudden desolation , and the destruction shall come like a whirlewindde . When affliction & anguish shall come vpon you . 28. Then shall they call vpon me but I will not aunswere : they shall seeke me early , but they shall not finde me . 19. Because they hated knowledge , & did not chose the feare of the Lorde . 20. They would none of my counsel , but despised all my correction

Prouerb . 15.8 . The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination vnto the Lorde , but the prayer of the righteous is acceptable vnto him .

Prouer . 21.13 . He that stoppeth his eares at the crye of the poore , he shall also crie and not be hearde .

Esa . 1.10 . Heare the worde af the Lorde , O princes of Sodom . Harken vnto the law of our God , O people of Gomorah . 11. What haue I to do with the multitude of the sacrifices , saith the Lord ? I am full of the burnt offringes of rammes , & of the fatte of fed beastes And I desire not the blood of bullockes , nor of lambes , nor of goates . 12. When ye come to appeare before me , who requireth this at your hands , to treade in my courts ? 13. Bring no mo oblations in vaine : incense is abomination vnto me . I can not suffer your new moones , or Sabbathes , nor solemne dayes ( it is iniquitie ) nor solemne assemblies . 14. My soule hateth your new moones and your appointed feastes , they are a burden vnto me : I am wearie to beare them . 15. And when you shall stretch out your handes , I will hide mine eyes from you : and though you make many prayers I will not heare : for your handes are full of blood .

Ierem . 7.16 . Therefore thou shalt not pray for this people , neither lift vp crie or prayers for them , neither intreate me , for I will not heare thee .

Iere . 11.14 . Therefore thou shalt not pray for this people , neither lift vp a crie or prayer for them : for when they crie vnto me in their trouble , I will not heare them .

IN EVERY PLACE

Esa . 65.16 . He that shall blesse in the earth , shall blesse him selfe in the true God , and he that sweareth in the earth , shall sweare by the true God : for the former troubles are forgotten , and shall surely hide them selues from mine eyes .

Malach . 1.11 . For from the rising of the sunne vnto the going downe of the same , my name is great among the Gentiles , and in euery place incense shal be offered vnto my name ; and a pure offring : for my name is great among the heathen saith the Lorde of hostes .

Iohn . 4.21 . And Iesus saide vnto her , woman , beleeue me , the houre cometh when ye shal neither in this mountaine , nor at Ierusalem , worshippe the father .

Act , 16.13 . And on Sabbath day , we went out of the citie besides a riuer , where they were wont to pray : and we sate downe and spake vnto the women , which were come togeather .

1. Timoth . 2.8 . I will therefore that the men pray , euery where lifting vppe pure handes without wrath or doubting .

Now to tye prayers to certaine places , and to thinke that God doth sooner heare vs in one place then in an other , that is proper to Iudaisme : for in olde time , through a singuler priuiledge , it was graunted to the Iewes onely to haue a temple , In the which God woulde be called vpon , with promise to heare them which shoulde come thyther to pray vnto him . But nowe euen as the difference betweene the Iewes and the Gentiles is taken awaye , so likewise the libertie , to praye through out the vniuersall worlde , is giuen in what place soeeuer it be .

ALTHOVGH THE REpaire into a secret place be an aide and helpe to pray well .

Math . 6.5 . And when thou prayeest , be not as the hypocrites : for they loue to stand , and praye in the sinagogues , and in the corners of the streetes because they woulde be seene of men . Verely I say vnto you they haue their reward . 6. But when thou prayest , enter into thy chaumber : and when thou hast shut thy doore , pray vnto thy father which is in secrete , and thy father which seeth in secret , shall reward thee openly .

Matth . 14.23 . And as soone as he had sent the multitude away , he went vp into a mountaine alone to pray : and when the euening was come he was there alone .

Luke . 6.12 . And it came to passe in those dayes , that he went into a mountaine to pray , and spent the night in prayer to God .

Act. 10.9 . On the morowe as they went on their iourney , and drewe neere vnto the citie , Peter went vp vpon the house to pray , about the six hower .

AND THAT THE PRAYers in assemblies ought not to be contemned .

Matth . 18.19 . Againe verely I say vnto you , that if two of you shall agree in earth vpon any thinge , whatsoeuer they shall desire , it shal be giuen them of my father which is in heauen . 20. For where two or three are gathered togeather in my name , there am I in the middest of them .

WE OVGHT NOT TO aske any thinge contrarie to God .

Marke . 10.35 . Then Iames and Iohn the sonnes of Zebedeus came vnto him , saying , Maister , we woulde that thou shouldest doe for vs that , that we desire . 36. And he saide vnto them , what woulde ye that I shoulde doe for you . 37. And they saide vnto him , graunt vnto vs , that we may sit one at thy right hand , and the other at thy left hand in thy glorie . 38. But Iesus saide unto them . Ye know not what ye aske can ye drinke of the cup that I shall drinke of , and be baptised with the baptisme wherewith I shall be baptised with .

Iames . 4.3 . Ye aske , and receiue not because ye aske amisse , that ye might consume it on your lustes .

1. Iohn . 5.14 . And this is the assuraunce that we haue in him , that if we aske any thing according to his will , he heareth vs.

AND SO PRAYING WE shal be heard as promise is made vnto vs.

Psal . 50.14 Offer to God praise , and paye thy vowes vnto the most high , 15. And call vpon me in the day of trouble : so will I deliuer thee , & thou shalt glorifie me .

Psal . 91.14 . Because he hath loued me , therefore will I deliuer him : I will exalt him because he hath knowen my name . 15. He shall call vpon me , and I will heare him : I will be with him in trouble : I will deliuer him , and glorifie him .

Psal . 145.18 . The Lord is neere vnto all that cal vpon him : yea to al that call vpon him in truth . 19. He will fulfill the desire of them that feare him : he also will heare their crie , and will saue them .

Prouerb . 15.8 . The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination to the Lord : but the prayers of the righteous is acceptable vnto him .

Esai . 30.19 . Surely a people shall dwell in Sion , and in Ierusalem : thou shalt weepe no more : he will certainely haue mercie vpon thee at the voice of thy crie : when he heareth thee , he will aunswere thee

Esai . 65.24 . Yea , before they call , I will aunswere , and whiles they speake I will heare .

Ierem . 29.12 . Then shall you crie vnto me , and ye shall goe and pray vnto me , and I will heare you . 13. And ye shall seeke me , and finde me , because ye shall seeke me with all your hearte .

Ioel . 2.32 . But whosoeuer shall call on the name of the Lorde shal be saued : for in mount Sion , and in Ierusalem shal be deliueraunce , as the Lorde hath saide , and in the remnant whom the Lorde shall call .

Matth . 7.7 . Aske , and it shal be giuen you : seeke and you shall finde : knocke and it shal be opened vnto you . 8. For whosoeuer asketh receiueth : and he that seeketh findeth , and to him that knocketh it shal be opened . 9. For what man is there amongest you , which if his sonne aske him bread , woulde giue him a stone ? 10. Or if he aske fishe will giue him a serpent ? 11. Yf ye then which are euill , can giue to your children good giftes , how much more shall your father which is in heauen , giue good thinges to them that aske him ?

Luke . 11.5 . Moreouer he saide vnto them , which of you shall haue a friend , and shall goe to him at midnight , and say vnto him , friende , lende me three loues ? 6. For a friende of mine is come out of the way vnto me , and I haue nothing to set before him . 7. And he within should aunswere , and say , trouble me not : the dore is now shut , and my children are with me in bed : I can not rise and giue them to thee . 8. I say vnto you though he woulde not arise and giue him , because he is his friend , yet doubtlesse because of his importunitie , he woulde rise and giue him , as many as he needed . 9. And I saye vnto you , aske and it shal be giuen : seeke and ye shall finde : knocke and it shal be opened . 10. For euery on that asketh receiueth : and he that seeketh findeth : and to him that knocketh it shal be opened .

Iohn . 16.23 . And in that day shall ye aske me nothing . Verely , verely , I say vnto you , whatsoeuer ye shall aske the father in my name , he will giue it you Hitherto haue he asked nothing in my name : aske , and ye shall receiue that your ioye may be full .

THE FORME OF prayer .

Matth . 6 9. After this manner pray ye , Our father which art in heauen , &c.

Sith that all our praiers ought to be offered and presented to God through our Lorde Iesus Christ , we ought also by him to be conducted to forme and frame them aright : for as saith S. Paule we knowe not how to pray as we ought to doe . Wherefore he giueth vs also his holy spirite , by the which we crie Abba , father , the which also doth aide our feeblenes and infirmitie , making request for vs with sobbes and sorowes , which can not be expressed , to that ende also hath he giuen vs the forme of prayer by the which as by a rule we directe all our prayers . Not to binde our selues to scrupulously to the words , but to shewe vs to what ende and fine all our requestes and prayers ought to be referred . It is not therefore to saie that we may not vse the psalmes or other words , for our Lorde Iesus Christ himselfe hath vsed other wordes , and longer talke in Sainct Iohn . chapter 17. and in in S. Math chap. 26.39 . and 42. he doth not make so longe a prayer . The Apostles also in the Act. chapter . 4.24 . haue vsed an other forme but whether they were longer or shorter notwithstanding they haue prayed for no other thing but for that which heare is comprehended . Let vs note then , that here is giuen to vs a lawe to pray aright , not as touching the wordes , but as concerning the thinges them selues that ought to be prayed for , and as farre as it toucheth the substance of prayer .

Father .

Deut . 32.6 . Is not he thy father that hath bought thee ? he hath made thee and proportioned thee ?

Esai . 63.16 . Doubtlesse thou art our father though Abraham be ignorant of vs , and Israell know vs not , yet thou , O Lorde , art our father , and our redeemer : thy name is for euer .

Esai . 49.15 . Can a woman forget her childe and not haue compassion on the sonne of her wombe ? though they shoulde forget , yet woulde I not forget thee .

Ieremi . 31.9 . For I am a father to Israell , and Ephraim is my first borne .

Malachi . 1.6 . A sonne honoureth his father , and a seruaunt his maister . Yf then I be a father , where is then my honour ? and if I be a maister , where is my feare , saith the Lord of hostes , vnto you , O Priestes , that despise my name . and ye saye wherein haue we despised thy name ?

Mala . 2.10 . Haue we not all one father , hath not one God made vs ? Why doe we transgresse euery one against his brother , and breake the couenaunt of our fathers ?

Matth . 7.9 . For what man is there amongest you , which if his sonne aske him breade , woulde giue him a stone ? 10. Or if he aske fishe , will giue him a serpent ? 11. Yf ye then which are euill , can giue to your children good giftes , how much more shall your Father which is in heauen giue good thinges to them that aske him .

Math . 11 25. At that time Iesus answered , and saide , I giue thee thankes O father , Lorde of heauen and earth , because thou hast hidde these thinges from the wise and men of vnderstanding and hast opened them to babes . 26. It is so O father , because thy good pleasure was such . All things are giuen me of my father : and no man knoweth the sonne , but the father : neither knoweth any man the father , but the sonne , and he to whom the sonne will reueale him .

Iohn . 1.12 . But as many as receiue him , to them he gaue power to be the sonnes of God , euen to them that beleeue in his name : we are borne not of bloode , nor of the will of the flesh , nor of the will of man , but of God .

Rom. 8.14 . For as many as are led by the spirite of God , they are the sonnes of God . 15. For ye haue not receiued the spirite of bondage to feare againe : but ye haue receiued the spirite of adoption , whereby we crie Abba , father .

1. Cor . 8.6 . yet vnto vs there is but one God , which is the father of whom are all thinges , and we in him : and our Lorde Iesus Christ , by whom are all thinges , and we by him .

2. Cor . 6.18 . And I will be a father vnto you , and ye shal be my sonnes and daughters , saith the Lorde almightie

Galath . 4.6 . And because ye are sonnes , God hath sent forth the spirite of his sonne into your harts which crieeth , Abba father .

1. Iohn . 3.1 . Beholde , what loue the father hath shewed on vs , that we should be called the sonnes of God . &c.

We are taught to call God father that being assured of his bountie and fatherly loue not doubting that he woulde receiue vs curteously and fauorably , and that he is prest and readie to heare our prayers and supplications , we may be bolde to call vpon him

Our .

Rom. 12.4 . For as we haue many members in one bodie , and all members haue not one office : so we being manie , are one bodie in Christ , and euerie one , one anothers members .

1. Cor . 12.13 , For by one spirit we are all baptized into one bodie , whether we be Iewes or Grecians , whether we be bond or free , and haue bene all made to drinke into one spirit . 14. For the bodie also is not one member but many , 15. If the foote would say , because I am not of the hand , I am not of the body , Is it therefore not of the bodie ? 16 And if the eare would say , because I am not the eie , I am not of the body , is it therfore not of the body ? 17. If the whole bodie were an ey , where were the hearing ? If the whole body were hearing , wher were the smelling ? 18. But now hath God disposed he members of euery one of them in the bodie , at his owne pleasure . 19. For if they were all one member , where were the bodie ? 20. But now are there many members , yet but one bodie . 21. And the eye cannot say vnto the hand , I haue no neede of thee : nor the head againe to the feet , I haue no need of you . 22. Yea , much rather those members of the body , which seeme to be more feeble , are necessarie . 23. And vpon those members of the body which we thinke most vnhonest , put we more honestie on , and our vncomely partes haue more comelinesse on . 24. For our comely partes neede it not : but God hath tempered the bodie together , and hath giuen the more honoure to those parts which lacked . 25. Lest there should be any diuision in the bodie : but that the members should haue the same care one for another . 26. Therefore if one member suffer , all suffer with it : If one member be had in honour , all members reioyce with it . 27. Now ye are the body of Christ , and members for your parte .

1. Tim . 2.1 . I exhort therefore , that first of all , supplications , prayers , and intercession , and giuinge of thankes be made for all men . 2. For Kinges and for all that are in authoritie , that we may leade a quiet and a peaceable life , in all Godlinesse and honestie . 3. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our sauiour . 4. Who will that all men shall be saued , and come vnto the knowledg of the truth .

Iames . 5.16 . Acknowledg your faults one to another , & pray one for another , t●at ye may be healed : for the prayer of a righteous man auaileth much , if it be f●ruent .

We say rather Our father then my father , that we may be admonished and aduertised of the fraternity and vnion , which is among vs all : which are brethren & children of one father . Wherfore there ought ●lso to be such an affection among vs that the praiers be common among vs : that is to say , that wee pray in general for al , & not onely for our selues

Which art in heauen .

1. Kinges . 8.27 . The heauens and the heauen of heauens , are not able to containe thee . How much more vnable is the house that I haue built ?

2. Chron . 2.6 . Who is he then that can be able to build him an house , when the heauens and the heauen of heauens cannot containe him ? Who am I then , that I should build him an house ? But I do it to burne incense before him .

Psal . 2.4 . But he that dwelleth in the heauen shall laugh : the Lord shall haue them in derision . Item 103.19 . The Lord hath prepared his throne in heauen , and his kingedome ruleth ouer all .

115.3 . But our God is in heauen , he doth whatsoeuer he will . 16. The heauens , euen the heauens are the Lords : but he hath giuen the earth to the sons of men .

Dauid declareth here brieflie that this world standeth not God in anie other steede , but to shew his fatherly care toward men .

Psal . 123.1 . I lifte vp mine eyes to to thee which dwellest in the heauens .

Isayas 66.1 . Thus sayth the Lorde , the heauen is my throne and earth is my footestoole : where is that house that ye will build vnto me ? and where is that place of my rest ? 2. For all these thinges hath my hand made , & all these thing● haue bene , sayth the Lord , &c.

Ieremie 23.24 . Do not I fill heauen and earth , saith the Lord ?

Mat . 25.8 . But be not called Rabbi , for one is your doctour , to wit , Christ , and all you are brethren . 9. And call no man your father vpon earth : for there is but one your father , which is in heauen .

Actes 7.47 . But Solomon built him an house . 4 , 8. Howbeit the most high dwelleth not in temples made with hands , as saith the Prophet .

Actes . 17.24 . God that made the world , and all thinges that are therein , seeing that he is the Lord of heauen and earth , dwelleth not in temples made with handes . 25. Neither is worshipped with mens handes , as though he needed any thing , seeinge he giueth to all life , and breath , and all thinges . 26. And hathe made of our bloude all mankinde , to dwell on all the face of the earth , and hath assigned times which were ordained before , and the boundes of their habitation . 27. That they should seeke the Lord , if so be they might haue groped after him , & found him , though doubtlesse he be not farre from euerie one of vs. 28. For in him we liue , and moue , and haue our being , as also certaine of their owne poets haue saide , for we are also his generation . &c.

We must not here vnderstande , that God is shut vp , and enclosed in heauen : but it is a manner of speakinge which is as much to say , that he is Almightie , which can doe all thinges , which is of an infinit might and power , & of an incomprehensible essence , of vnspeakeable puissaunce , of euerlasting immortalitie of a force through all thinges bestowed : which by his power doeth , guide & gouerne the whole world , and doth preserue all that therin is contained by his gouernement and conduction , and vnder whose domination are all thinges , which he disposeth by his good prouidence , to be short , by this is expressed his puissaunt power . Now the better to assure our hope , we must not doub but that we are heard : for he is wholy good , sith he is a father , and almightie to do that which we desire , and aske of him . And it is not without a cause that he saith here rather Which is in heauen , then , Which is almightie , ( although by both one & the selfe-same thinge is signified ; ) but it is to teach vs to withdraw our thoughts from these terrestrial and base thinges , and to lifte them vp vnto the celestiall and heauenlie for it would be a great shame for vs , that our father should be in heauen aboue , & that our affections should be tied to the earth below .

THE FIRST REQVEST

Thy name be sanctified , or halowed be thy name .

1. Chron . 29.19 . Now therefore our God , we thanke thee , and praise thie holy name .

Iob . 1.21 . The Lord hath giuen , and the Lord hath taken it , blessed be the name of the Lord

Psal . 8.1 . O Lord our Lord how excellent is thy name in all the world ! which hast set thy glorie aboue the heauens .

Psal . 54.6 . I will praise thy name , O Lord , because it is good .

Psal . 79.9 . Helpe vs O God of our saluation , for the glory of thy name sake , and deliuer vs , and be mercifull vnto our sinnes , for thy names sake .

Psal . 86.11 . Teach me thy way , O Lord , and I will walke in thy truth : knit my heart vnto thee , that I may feare thy name . 12. I will praise thee , O Lord my God , with all mine heart : yea , I will glorifie thy name for euer .

Psal . 96.2 . Sing vnto the Lord , and praise his name , declare his saluation from day to day . 3. declare his glorie amonge all nations , and his wonders amonge all people

Psal . 111.9 . Holy and fearefull is his name .

Psal . 113.1 . Praise , O ye seruauntes of the Lord , praise the name of the Lord , 2. Blessed be the name of the Lord from hence foorth and euer . 3. The Lordes name is praised from the risinge of the Sunne , vnto the going down of the same .

Psal . 115.1 . Not vnto vs , O Lord , not vnto vs , but vnto thy name giue the glorie , for thy louing mercie , and for thy truthes sake .

Psal . 145.1 . O my God and Kinge , I will extoll thee , and will blesse thy name , for euer and euer .

Prou. 18.10 . The name of the Lord is a stronge tower : the righteous runneth vnto it and is exalted

Isaias 43.6 . I will say to the North , Giue , & to the South , Keepe not backe : bringe my sonnes from farre , and my daughters from the endes of the earth . 7. euery one shal be called by my name : for I created him for my glory , formed him and made him .

Ezec . 36.23 . And I will sanctify my great name which was polluted amonge the heathen , among whom you haue polluted it , and the heathen shall know that I am the Lord , saith the Lord God , when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes .

Ezec . 39.7 . I will make my holy name known in the middest of my people Israell , and I will not suffer them to pollute my holy name any more , and the heathen shall know that I am the Lord , the holy one of Israell .

Dan . 2.20 . The name of God be praised for euer , and euer : for wisedome , and strength are his .

Ioell . 2.32 . But whosoeuer shall call vpon the name of the Lord , shal be saued .

Zach. 14.9 . And the Lord shall be King of all the earth : in that day shall be one Lorde , and his name shall be , one .

Malach . 1.11 . For from the risinge of the Sunne , vnto the goinge downe of of the same , my name is great amonge the Gentiles .

Hebr . 2.12 . I will declare thy name vnto my brethren , in the middest of the Church will I sing praises vnto thee .

IN RESPECT OF MEN the name of the Lorde maie be prophaned .

Leuit. 18.21 . Also thou shalt not giue thy children , to offer them to Molech : neither shalt thou defile the name of thy God , for I am the Lord .

Leuit. 19.12 . Also ye shall not swere by my name falselie , neither shalt thou defile the name of thy God , I am the Lorde .

Leuit. 20.3 . And I will set my face against that man , and cut him of from amonge his people , because he hath giuen his children vnto Molech , for to defile my sanctuarie , and to pollute my holy name .

Leuit. 24.11 . So the Israelites womans sonne , blasphemed the name of the Lord and cursed .

Isaias 52.5 . Nowe therefore what haue I heare sayth the Lord , that my people is taken away for naught , and they that rule ouer them make them to howle , saith the Lorde , and my name continuallie , all the day is blasphemed .

Ezechiell . 36.32 . Be it knowen vnto you , that I doe not this for your sakes , saith the Lord God , therefore o ye house of Israell , be ashamed , and confounded , for your owne wayes .

Rom. 2.24 . For the name of God is blasphemed amonge the Gentiles , be cause of you , as it is written .

THE SAME REQVEST , in more manifest and plaine wordes .

Psal . 67.1 . God be mercifull vnto vs and blesse vs , and cause his face to shine vpon vs. 2. That they may knowe thy way vpon earth , and thy sauinge health amonge all nations . 3. Let the people praise thee , O God , let all the people praise thee . 4. Let the people be glad and reioyce : for thou shalt iudge the people righteouslie , and gouerne the nations vpon earth . 5. Let the people praise thee O God : let all the people praise thee . 6. Then shall the earth bringe foorth her encrease : and God , euen our God , shall blesse vs. 7. God shall blesse vs , and all the endes of the world shall feare him .

The name of God , is his renoune , the praise , fame , recommendation , which is made of him , and as Dauid calleth it , his holy remembraunce . His name is halowed when his praise is spread abroade through the face of the whole earth , and celebrated by the mouth of all men , as contrariwise it is prophaned & blasphemed , when as it is not esteemed , according as it deserueth . But the name of the Lord is alway holy in it selfe , for there is nothing but doth beare some testimony and witnesse of his glory , and his vertue wisedome infinit goodnesse , iustice , & such like do shine on euery side aswell in heauen as in earth . But in respect of men it is oftentimes prophaned , when by them his glory is obseured and darkened . As when through stupity and dulnes it is not regarded & estemed as it ought to be . Or by the misknowledgeing & contempt , it is turned into mockery , or through impiety , & vngodlinesse most execrable blasphemies are spewed out against the same , here therfore we do aske , that euen as God is in him selfe holie , righteous , wise and good , that so his holinesse , righteousnesse , wisedome , and goodnes , may be knowne , praised , and celebrated of all : and that his glory and maiestie may shine in euery place , that the due honour may be giuen vnto him .

THE SECONDE REqueste .

Thy Kingdome come .

Math . 6.33 . But seeke ye first the kingedome of God , and all his righteousnesse , and all these thinges shall be ministred vnto you .

Luke 17.20 . And when he was demaunded of the Pharisies , when the kingedome of God should come , he answered and said , the kingedome of God cometh not with obseruation . 21. nether shal men say , loe here , loe there : for behold the kingdom of God is within you .

Luke 18.17 . Whosoeuer receaueth not the kingedome of God as a babe , he shall not enter therin .

The kingedome of God , as we take it here , is the spiritual gouernmente , wherewith he gouerneth by the vertue of his spirit , and by the scepter of his word all the electe . And then doeth Chryste raigne when men doe bringe them selues vnder , to be gouerned , in mortifiynge theyre fleshe , and as it were putting it vnder the yoke , and renouncing their affections . This kingdome hath two partes : the one is to direct & maintaine the elect , the other is to ouerthrow his enemies , which are the reprobate and damned . So therefore we pray to God that he woulde enlarge this Seigneurie and spirituall gouernement . First in increasing the number of his elect , and in dilating and enlarging his Church , and putting vnder his feete all his enemies , in destroying the empire of Satan , & ouerthrowing the aduersarie kingdom , as of Antechrist , of heretiks of Turks , & of other semblabe : secondarily in renewing the elect , reforming their hartes to a better life by the reformation of the olde man & by the obedience of his righteousnes .

THE THIRD REQVEST

Thy will be done .

Deut . 6.18 . And thou shalt doe that which is right and good in the sight of the Lorde : that thou maist prosper . &c. 12.8 . We shall not do after all thinges that we doe here this day : that is euery man , whatsoeuer seemeth him good in his owne eyes .

1. Samuel . 15.22 . Ecclesiast . 4.17 . Esai . 1.19 . Ose . 6.6 . Math . 9 13. & 12.7 . And Samuel saide , hath the Lorde as greate pleasure in burnt offringes and sacrifices , as when the voice of the Lorde is obeied ? beholde , to obey , is better then sacrifice , and to harken is better then rammes .

Psal . 40.6 . Heb . 10.5 . Sacrifice and offringes thou diddest not desire ( for mine eares hast thou prepared ) but offringes and sinne offringes hast thou not required . 7. Then saide I , lo , I come for in the rolle of the booke it is written of me , 8. I desired to doe thy will O my God : yea thy law is within my hart ,

Psal . 103.20 . Praise the Lorde , ye his Angelles , that excell in strength , that doe his commaundemente in obeying his worde . 21. Praise the Lorde all ye his hostes , ye his seruauntes that doe his pleasure . 143.10 . Teach me to do thy will , for thou art my God : let thy good spirite leade me vnto the lande of righteousnes .

Prouerb . 19.21.7 . Many deuices are in a mans hart : but the counsell of the Lorde shall stande .

Ecclesiast . 4.17 . Take heede to thy foote when thou entrest into the house of God , and be more neere then to giue the sacrifice of fooles : for they knowe not that they doe euill .

Ieremi . 5.4.7 . And I will giue them a hart to know me , that I am the Lord , and they shal be my people , and I will be their God , for they shall returne vnto me with their whole harte . 31.33 . But this shal be the couenant that I will make with the house of Israell , After , those dayes , saith the Lord , I will put my lawe in their inwarde partes , & write it in their harts and will be their God , and they shal be my people .

Ezech . 11.19 . And will giue them one heart , and I will put a newe spirite within their bowels . I will take the stonie hart out of their bodies , & will giue them a hart of flesh .

Matth . 26.39 . Not as I will , but as thou wilt .

Marke . 14.36 . Not that I will but thy will be done .

Luke . 2.14 . Glorie be to God in the high heauens , and peace in earth , and towardes men good will .

Luke . 22.42 . Not my will , but thine be done .

Ihon . 5.30 . I seeke not my owne will but the will of the father which hath sent me . 6.38 . For I came downe from heauen , not to doe mine owne will , but his will the which hath sent me . 40. This is the will of him that hath sent me , that euery one that seeth the sonne , and beleeueth in him should haue euerlasting life : and I will raise him vp at the last day .

Act. 9.6 . Lorde , what wilt thou that I doe .

Act. 21.14 . So when he woulde not be perswaded we ceased , saying the will of the Lord be done .

Rom. 7.15 . For I allow not that which I doe : for what I woulde that doe I not but what I hate , that doe I. 16. If I doe then that which I would not , I consent to the law that it is good . 19. For I do not the good thinges which I woulde , but the euill which I woulde not that do I. 21. I finde then by the law that when I woulde doe good , euill is present with me . 22. For I delight in the law of God , concerning the inner man . 23. But I see an other law in my members , rebelling against the law of my minde and leading me captiue vnto the law of sinne , which is in my members . 24. O wretched man that I am , who shall deliuer me from this bodie of death ? 25. I thanke God through Iesus Christ , our Lorde , Then I my selfe in my minde serue the law of God , but in my flesh the law of sinne .

Rome . 12.2 . And fashion not your selues like vnto this worlde , but be ye changed by the renewing of your minde that ye may proue what is the good will of God , and acceptable and perfect .

2. Corinth . 3.4 . And such trust haue we through Christ to God . 5. Not that we are sufficient of our selues , to thinke any thing , as of our selues : but our sufficiencie is of God .

Ephe . 5.17 . Werefore be ye not vnwise , but vnderstande what the will of the Lorde is .

Colos 4.12 , Epaphras the seruaunt of Christ , which is one of you saluteth you , and alwayes striueth for you in prayers , that ye may stande perfect , and full in all the will of God .

1. Thes . 4.3 . For this is the will of God euen your sanctification , and that we shoulde abstaine from fornication . 4. That euery one of you shoulde knowe how to possesse his vessell in holines and honor . 5. And not in the lust of concupiscence , euen as the Gentiles which know not God .

Heb . 13.20 . The God of peace that brought againe from the deade our Lord Iesus , the great shepheard of the sheepe , through the blood of the euerlasting couenaunt . 21. Make you perfect in all good workes , to do his will , workeing that which is pleasant in his sight through Iesus Christ , to whom be praise for euer and euer , Amen .

1. Peter . 4.1 . Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for vs in the flesh , arme your selues likewise with the same minde , which is that he which hath suffered in the fleshe , hath ceased from sinne . 2. That he henceforwarde shoulde liue ( as much time as remaineth in the flesh ) not after the lustes of men , but after the will of God .

1. Iohn . 2.17 . He that fulfilleth the will of God abydeth for euer .

1. Iohn . 5.14 . And this is the assuraunce that we haue in him , that if we aske any thing according to his will he heareth vs.

In this request we do not desire that which he will : for the will of God is done alwayes , will we , nill we . But it is in our behalfe that we desire it of him . First we denie and renounce all our lustes and desires , forsaking and abandoning all our affections and leauing them to God , and praying him that he woulde not suffer thinges to fall out according to our lustes , but as he shal see and know them to be good , and according to his will and pleasure . Secondarily that he woulde create in vs a new harte and a new will in such sort that we will and desire nothing but that which pleaseth and liketh him , and that he approueth . Thirdly that all those to whom God hath giuen any charge , may duely acquite them selues of their dutie , as the Pastours and Ministers toward the Church , the Magistrates and rulers toward the people , the teachers toward their schollers , the fathers and mothers toward their children , and contrariewise the children toward their fathers and mothers , and the husbandes and wifes mutually the one toward the other . He addeth , As in heauen . For in heauen there is none that resisteth his will : but the chiefest ioy of Celestiall creatures is to liue vnder the pleasure and will of God .

THE FOVRTH REQVEST

Giue vs this day our dayly breade

Deut . 8.3 . Therefore he humbled thee and made thee hungrie , and fed thee with Man , which thou knewest not , neither did thy fathers know it , that he might teach thee that man liueth not by bread only , but by euery worde that proceedeth out of the mouth of the Lord doth a man liue .

Iob . 39.3 . Who prepareth for the rauen his meate , when his birdes crie vnto God , wandring for lacke of meate ?

Psal . 37.25 . I haue bene yong and now am olde , yet I saw neuer the righteous forsaken , nor his seede begging bread .

Psal . 55.22 . Cast thy burden vpon the Lorde , and he shall nourish thee . he will not suffer the righteous to fall for euer .

Psal . 60.11 . When thy treasure shall abounde set not thy hart thereon .

Psal . 104.21 . The lions roare after their pray & seeke their meate at God . 27. all these waite vpon thee that thou mayest giue them foode in due seasons . 28. Thou giuest it to them and they gather it : thou openest thine hande , and they are filled with good thinges .

Psal . 136.25 . Wich giueth foode to all flesh , for his mercie indureth for euer .

Psal . 145.15 . The eyes of all waite vpon thee , and thou giuest them their meate in due season ? 16. Thou openest thine hande , and fillest all thinges liuing of thy good pleasure .

Psal . 147.9 . which giuest to beastes their foode , and to the yong rauens that crie .

Prouerb . 10.3 . The Lorde will not famish the s●n●e of the righteous : but he casteth away the substaunce of the wicked 22. The blessing of the Lord , it maketh rich , he doth ad no sorowes with it .

Ecclesiast . 5.18 . Also to euery man to whom God hath giuen riches and treasures , and giueth him power to eate thereof , and to take his part , and to enioy his labours : this is the gifte of God .

Ezec . 4 16. I will breake the staffe of breade in Ierusalem : and they shall eate bread by waight & with care , and they shall drink water by measure , and with astonishment . 17. Because that bread & water shal faile , they shal be astonied one with an other , and shall consume away for their iniquitie .

Ezec . 5.16 . When I shall send vpon them the euill arrowes of famine , which shal be of their destruction , and which I will sende to destroy you , and I will increase the famine vpon you , & will breake your staffe of breade . 17. So will I send vpon you famine , and euill beastes , and they shall spoile thee , and pestilence , and blood shall passe through thee , and I will bring the sworde vpon thee , I the Lorde haue spoken it .

Ezec . 14.13 . Sonne of man when the land sinneth against me in committing a tres●asse , then will I stretch out my hand vpon it , and will breake the staffe of the bread thereof , and will send famine vpon it , and I will destroy man & beast forth of it .

Ose . 4.10 . For they shall eate and not haue enough : they shall commit adulterie , and shall not increase , because they haue left of to take heede vnto the Lorde .

Mich . 6.14 . Thou shalt eate and not be satisfied , and thy casting downe shal be in the middest of thee , and thou shalt take holde , but shalt not deliuer , and that which thou deliuerest , wil I giue vp to the sworde .

Matth . 6.25 . Therefore I say vnto you , be not carefull for your life , what ye shall eate , or what ye shall drinke : nor yet for the bodie what ye shall put on , Is not the life more worth thē meate● and the bodie then raiment . 26. Behold the foules of the heauen , for they sowe not , neither reape , nor carie into their barnes : yet your heauenly father feedeth them , are ye not much better then they ? 27. Which of you by taking care is able to adde one cubite vnto his stature ? 28 And why care ye for raiment ? learne , howe the lilies of the filde doe growe : they labour not , neither spinne . 29. Yet I say vnto you that euen Solomon in all his glorie was not arayed like one of these . 30. Wherefore Yf God so cloth the grasse of the filde which is to daye , and to morow is cast into the ouen , shall he not doe much more vnto you , O ye of litle faith ? 31. Therefore take no thought , saying : what shall we eate ? or what shall we drinke ? or wherewith shall we be clothed ? 32. ( For after all these thinges seeke the Gentiles ) for your heauenly father knoweth , that ye haue neede of all these thinges . 33. But seeke ye first the kingdom of God , and his righteousnes and all these thinges shal be ministred vnto you .

Philippians . 4.6 . Be nothing carefull , but in all thinges let your requestes be shewed vnto God in prayers , and supplication , and with giuing of thankes .

1. Peter . 5.7 . Cast all your care on him for he careth for you .

SOLOMONS PRAYER Prouerb . 30.7 .

Two thinges haue I required of thee : denye me them not bef●re I die , 8. Remoue farre from me vanitie and lies , giue me not pouertie nor riches : feede me with foode conuenient for me . 9. Lest I be full and denie thee , and say , who is the Lorde ? or lest I be poore and steale , and take the name of my God in vaine .

First we desire of God that he would maintaine and preserue this present life which he hath giuen vs in this worlde . Secondarily that he woulde fournish and giue vs , that which he knoweth to be most necessarie and needefull for the preseruation of the same , as meate , drinke , raiment , habitation , sense vnderstanding wisedom , holynes , & a good disposition & strength of body , & all other like things : for all that is vnderstood by the name of breade . In summe in this petition we do giue our selues vnto him as a charge , and we doe put our selues in his prouidence , to be nourished , maintained , and preserued of him . Now to aske these thinges appartaining not onely to the poore and indigent , but also vnto the rich and wealthie ( for it is not the aboundaunce that nourisheth , but the secret and hidden blessings of God spredde ouer all thinges ) nor to the sicke , but to the founde and healthy ( for health is not perpetuall ) nor vnto the vndiscrite and poore in spirite , but to the most wittie and wise , for their prudencie may be turned into ignoraunce , and their wisedome into folly . This bread we call ours , not because that it is , or that it cometh from vs : for it is only the gifte of God : but in that it is so necessarie for vs , that without it we can not liue . This worde daily is expounded in S. Matth . chap. 6.34 . Care not then for to morowe for the morow shall care for it selfe : the daye hath enough with his owne griefe Wherein we are taught to be contented and not to desire more then our necessitie requireth .

THE FIFT REQVEST

And forgeue vs our offenses .

Genes . 6.5 . When the Lord saw that the wickednesse of man was great vpon the earth , and all the imaginations , of the thoughtes of his heart were onelie euill continually .

Gen. 8.21 . For the imagination of mans heart is euill , euen from his youth .

1. Kinges . 8.16 . For there is no man that sinneth not .

Iob . 15.14 . What is man that he should be cleane ? and he that is borne of a woman , that he should be iust ? 15. Behold he found noe stedfastnesse in his Saintes : yea , the heauens are not cleare in his sight . 16. How much more is man abhominable , and filthy , which drinketh iniquitie like water ?

Iob . 25.4 . And how may a man be iustified with God : or how can he be cleane that is borne of a woman ? 5. Behold , he will giue no light to the moone , & the starres are vncleane in his sight . 6. And how much more man a worme , euen the sonne of man : which is but a worme .

Psal . 19.12 . Who can vnderstand his faultes ? cleanse me from my secret faultes ?

Psalm . 32.5 . Then I acknowledged my sinne vnto thee , neither hid I mine iniquitie : for I thought , I will confesse against my selfe my wickednesse vnto the Lord , and thou forgauest the punishment of my sinne . Selah

Psal . 51. ● . Haue mercie vpon me O God , according vnto thy louing kindnesse : according to the multitude of thy compassions , put away mine iniquities . 2. Wash me throughly from mine iniquities , and cleanse me from my sinne . 3. For I knowe mine iniquities , and my sinne is euer before me . 4. Against thee , against thee onely haue I sinned , and done euill in thy sight , that thou maiest be iust when thou speakest , and pure when thou iudgest . 7. Purge me with hissope , and I shall be cleane : wash me and I shall be whiter then snow .

Psal . 103.8 . The Lord is full of compassion and mercie , slow to anger , and of great kindenesse . 9. He will not alway chide , neither keepe his anger for euer . 10. He hath not dealt with vs after our sinnes , neither rewarded vs according to our iniquities . 11. For as high as heauen is aboue the earth , so great is his mercy to them that feare him . 12. As farre as the East is from the West , so farre hath he remoued our sinnes from vs. 13. As a father hath compassion on his children , so hath the Lord compassion on them that feare him . 14. For he knoweth whereof we be made ; he remembreth that we are but dust .

Psal . 116.11 . I saide in my feare , all men are lyers .

Psal . 143.2 . And enter not into iudgment with thy seruaunt : for in thy sight shall none that liueth be iustified .

Ecclesiast . 7.22 . Surely there is noe man iust in the earth , that doeth good and sinneth not .

Isaias 1.18 . Though your sinnes were as crimson , they shall be made white as snow , though they were red like sk●rlet , they shall be as wooll .

Isaias 43.25 . I , euen I , am he that putteth away thine iniquities for mine owne sake , and will not remember thy sinnes .

Isaias 44.22 . I haue put away thie transgressions like a cloud , & thy sinnes as a mist : turne vnto me for I haue redeemed thee .

Isai . 64 6. But we haue all bene like an vncleane thinge , and all our righteousnesse is as filthie cloutes , and we all do fade like a leafe , and our iniquities like the winde haue taken vs away .

Daniel . 9.4 . And I prayed vnto the Lord my God , and made my confession , sayinge . Oh Lord God which art great , and fearefull , and keepest couenant and mercie toward them that keepe thy commaundementes . 5. We haue sinned & haue committed iniquitie , and haue done wickedly , yea , we haue rebelled and haue departed from thy preceptes and from thie iudgementes . 6. For we would not obey thy seruauntes the Prophetes , which spake in thy name to our Kinges , to our Princes , and to our fathers , and to all the people of the land .

Mich . 7.18 . Who is a God like vnto thee , that taketh away iniquitie , and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage ? He retaineth not his wrath for euer , because mercy pleaseth him . 9. He will turne againe and haue compassion vpon vs : he will subdue our iniquities , & cast all our sinnes into the bottome of the sea .

Rom. 3.9 . For we haue alreadie proued that all both Iewes and Gentiles , are vnder sinne . 10. As it is written there is none righteous , no not one : 11. There is none that vnderstandeth there is none that seeketh God . 23. All haue sinned , and are depriued of the glorie of God .

Galat . 3.22 . But the scripture hath concluded all vnder sinne . &c.

1. Ioh . 1.8 . If we say we haue no sinne , we deceiue our selues & truth is not in vs. 10. If we say we haue not sinned , we make him a lier , & his word is not in vs

Forasmuh as all are sinners , and haue neede of remission of sinnes : it is commaunded also to vs all to aske pardon . And there is none how holy and perfect so euer he be , that is exempted . And there needes no other place but this , for to condemne the nature of all men , and to shew that all are sinners : for this prayer is not giuen for one , or for twoe , nor for many , but generallie for all . And it is not commaunded the disciples , onely to runne backe to the remission of sinnes , but to all the Churh . But to those that thinke , that they haue no neede of remission of sinnes , S. Iohn speaketh , sayinge , they deceaue them selues ( for thinking that they are iust , they are sinners ) and that they belye God ( which condemneth all man-kinde of sinne ) and that the word of God is not in them , that is to say , they caste awaie the doctrine of God , which doth enclose vs all vnder comdemnation . And the sinnes are called debtes , in S. Mathew , chap. 6.12 . because they do binde vs to condemnation , before the iudgement seate of God , & doth make vs guilty : and that which is more , it doeth alienate and estraung vs altogether from God , in such sort , that there is no hope to obtaine grace and peace , if that pardon be not giuen vs. And God doth quite our debts , when he doeth freelie pardon our faultes , in not doing vengeance , as we haue deserued , but in allowinge vs iust and innocent .

As we forgeue thē which haue offended vs.

Math . 5.23 . If then thou bring thy gifte vnto the alter , and there remembrest that thy brother hath ought against thee . 24. Leaue there thine offring before the alter , and goe thy way : first be reconciled to thy brother , and then come and offer thy gifte . 25. Agree with thine aduersarie quickly , whiles thou art in the way with him , least thine aduersarie deliuer thee to the Iudge , and the Iudge deliuer thee to the sergeent , and thou be cast into prison . 26. Verely I say vnto thee , thou shalt not come out thence till thou hast payed the vtmost farthing . 44. Loue your enemies : blesse them that curse you : do good to thē that hate you , and pray for them that hurte you , and persecute you . 45. That ye may be the children of your father which is in heauen : for he maketh his sunne to arise on the euill , and on the good , he sendeth raine on the iust and vniuste . 6.14 . Yf ye doe forgiue men their trespasses your heauenly father will also forgiue you . 15. But if ye do not forgiue them their trespasses no more wil your father forgiue you your trespasses .

Matth . 18 23. Therefore is the kingdome of heauen likened vnto a certaine king , which would take account of his seruaunts . &c. Iesus Christ commandeth by this similitude of the king or Lorde , & his seruaunt which was to aunsweare him a great summe , & of him and his felowe his debtoure in a smal summe , that we should forgiue one the other his offences as God , forgiueth those which we commit against his maiestie ( and concludeth ) 35. So likewise shall my heavenly father doe vnto you except ye forgiue from your heartes , ech one to his brother their trespasses .

Luke . 6.27 . Forgiue and ye shal be forgiuen .

Luke . 23.34 . Then said Iesus father , forgiue them for they knowe not what they doe .

Act. 7.60 . And he kneeled downe , & cried with a loude voice , Lorde lay not this sinne to their charge .

Colos 3.13 . Forbearing one an other , and forgiuing one an other , if any man haue a quarell to an other : euen as Christ forgaue , euen so do ye .

Iames . 5.16 . acknowledge your faults one to an other , & pray one for an other that he may be healed .

By this particle is declared vnto vs that God will not forgiue vs our faultes , if we semblably forgiue not the iniuries which our brethren shall doe vnto vs. Wherefore they which haue not laide aside all enuie and euill will , and conceiue brotherly loue towardes all men , yea towards their very enemies : when they make this request desiring pardon of God , besides that they are lyers & that they mocke God , they desire of God that he would not graunt vnto them remission of their sinnes , for they doe require that God woulde there do vnto thē , as they do there vnto others . But here we must note that there is a difference betweene the pardon that God giueth and that which men giue . For God pardonethe to the ende that our sinnes be not imputed vnto vs , and that no vengeance at all be done : but man pardoneth in as much as he retaineth no euill will against those which shall offend him .

THE SIXT REQVEST ,

And leade vs not into tentation .

The meaning is that we pray that no temptation ouercome vs. But we must marke that there are two sortes of temptations , as we may gather out of S. Iames . 1.12 , 13. the one sorte doth serue to the welfare and health of those which are tempted , as those which God sendeth them for to proue their faith . The other sorte to solicite and prouoke them to sinne & offend God as are all the euill thoughts & conceptions of our minde , and all the incitations and motions which are contrarie to the law of God , whether it be the concupiscence or lust which is hidden in our flesh , or whether the diuil doth stire vs vp as are the very thinges them selues which of their owne nature are not euell , when as by the Deuills arte they are to vs tentation , where the one some are at the right hande , as riches , power , honors , the other some at the lefte hand , as pouertie , reproche , contempt , affliction , and other like thinges . Of both these sortes of temptation it is spoken in many places of the scripture .

Gen. 22.1 . God proued Abraham . &c.

Exo . 20.20 . Feare not for God is come to proue you , and that his feare may be before you , that ye sinne not .

2. Chron . 32.31 . God left him to trie him , and to knowe all that was in his harte .

Psal . 26.2 . Proue me O Lorde and trie me : examine my raynes , and mine harte .

1. Cor . 10.13 . There hath no tentation taken you , but such as appartaineth to man : and God is faithfull which will not suffer you to be tempted aboue that you be able , but will giue the issue euen with the tentation that ye may be able to beare it .

Iames . 1.2 . My breathren counte it exceeding ioy , when ye fall into diuerse tentations . 3. Knowing that the trying of your faith bringeth forth Pacience . 12. Blessed is the man that endureth tentation : For when he is tryed , he shall receiue the crowne of life , which the Lorde hath promised to them that loue him .

1. Peter . 1.15 . Which are kept by the power of God , through faith vnto saluation , which is prepared to be shewed in the last time : 6. When ye reioyce : though now for a season ( if neede require ) ye are in heuines , through manifolde tentations . 7. That the trial of your faith , being much more precious then golde that perisheth ( though it be tryed with fire ) might be founde vnto praise , and honour , and glorie at the appeareing of Iesus Christ .

OF THE TENTATION which we desire to euitate ,

Matth . 26.41 . Watch and pray , that ye enter not into tentation : the spirite in deede is ready , but the flesh is weake .

Gal. 6.1 . considering thy selfe , lest thou also be tempted .

1. Timoth . 6.9 . For they that wil be riche , fall into tentation & snares , & into many foolish and noysome lustes , which drowne men in perdition and destruction .

Iames . 1.13 . Let no man saye when he is tempted , I am tempted of God , for God can not be tempted with euill , neither tempteth he any man . 14. But euery man is tempted , when he is drawne away by his owne concupiscence , and is intised . 15. Then when lust hath conceiued it bringeth forth sinne , and sinne when it is finished bringeth forth death .

In making this request , first we acknowledge on the one side the daunger in the which we are , to wit to fall and to be ouertaken and ruined by tentation : and on the other side our infirmities & weakenes for if there were no daunger we ought not to desire to be deliuered : if we be strong enough we ought not to aske for aide . Secondarily we request to be fortified and strengthned by the vertue and force of the holy Ghost , for to resist and withstand the assaultes of the Deuill , and the euill lustes of the flesh ( the which doe fight against vs ) to perseuer in the way of righteousnes , bearing away the victorie ouer all our enemies , and in the ende to triumphe in Paradise . As touching the externall tentation , albeit God sendeth vs them for to proue our faith , notwithstanding forasmuch as Satan doth endeuour to drawe and make vs decline from God , either by pride and arrogancie ( because of prosperitie , and by the sweetnes of the pleasures of this worlde ) or by impaciencie and desperation , ( because of aduersities ) we haue need to desire of god that he would giue vs a good ende and issue . But let vs note that we desire not that we shoulde not be tempted , but that we be not led or put into temptation , for there is a difference : and it is good that we be tempted that we may be wakened to the ende that we be not to much sleepie & slouthfull . To be led therefore into tentation , is to be ouercome and vanquished of tentation : as we are when we consent to the same , to be turned from God according vnto the purpose and intention of the Deuill

But deliuer vs from euill .

Luke . 22.31 . Simon , Simon , beholde , Satan hath desired you , to winow you as wheate . 32. But I haue prayed for the , that thy faith faile not , therefore when thou art conuerted , strenghthen thy breathren .

Iohn . 17.15 . I praye not that thou shouldest take them out of the worlde : but that thou keepe them from euill .

1. Thessal . 3.5 . Euen for this cause , when I could no longer forbeare , I sent him that I might know of your faith , lest the tempter had tempted you in any sorte , that our labour had bene in vaine .

1. Peter . 5.8 . Be sober and watch : for your aduersarie the deuill as a roaring lion walketh about , seeking whom he may deuoure . 9. Whom resist stedfast in the faith . &c.

1. Ihon . 5.4 . For all that is borne of God , ouercommeth the world : and this is the victorie that ouercommeth the worlde , euen our faith . 5. Who is it that ouercommeth the worlde , but he which beleeueth that Iesus is the Sonne of God ? 18. We knowe that whosoeuer is borne of God , sinneth not , but he that is begotten of God , keepeth himselfe , and the wicked toucheth him not .

It is no request separated , by it selfe : but an exposition of the last : as if we would say , when tentations shal assault vs deliuer vs from the euil to the which Satan doth prouoke vs by them : or else deliuer vs from all those things which may alienate vs from thee .

For thine is the kingdom the power , and the glory for euer and euer . Amen .

1. Chron . 29.10 . Blessed be thou , O Lorde God , of Israell our father for euer and euer . 11. Thine , O Lorde , is greatnes and power , and glorie , and victorie and praise for all that is in heauen and in earth is thine : thine is the kingdome , O Lord , and thou excellest as head ouer all . 12. Both riches and honour come of thee , and thou reignest ouer all , and in thine hande is power and strength and in thine hande it is to make greate , and to giue strength vnto all . 13. Nowe therefore , our God , we thanke thee , and praise thy glorious name .

Psal . 145.11 . They shew the glory of thy kingdom and speake of thy power . 12. To cause his power to be knowne to the sonnes of men , and the glorious renoume of his kingdom . 13. Thy kingedome is an euerlasting kingdom , and thy dominion indureth throughout all ages . Looke vpon the whole Psalme .

Rom. 11.36 . For of him , and through him , and for him are all thinges : to him be glorie for euer . Amen .

Rom. 16.27 . To God , I say , onely wise be praise through Iesus Christ for euer . Amen .

1. Timoth . 1.17 . Now vnto the kinge euerlasting , immortall , inuisible , vnto God onely wise be honour and glory for euer . Amen

1. Timoth . 6.16 . Vnto whom be honour and power euerlasting . Amen .

1. Peter . 5.11 . To him be glorie and dominion for euer and euer . Amen .

Iude . 1.25 . That is , to God only wise , our sauiour , be glorie , and maiestie , and dominion and power , both now and for euer . Amen .

Apocalip . 4.11 . Thou art worthy , O Lorde , to receiue glorie and honour , and power : for thou hast created all thinges , and for thy willes sake they are and haue bene created .

Apoc . 5.13 . Praise , and honour and glorie , and power be to him , that sitteth vpon the throne , and vnto the lambe for euermore .

By this we proteste before God , that we doe not grounde our requestes in the trust and confidence of our selues : but in the power and bountie of God .

A SVMMARIE OF THE prayer .

Luk . 12.31 . But rather seeke ye after the kingdom of God , and all these thinges shal be ministred vnto you .

OF FAYTH .

WE MVST BELEEVE that we may be iustified and saued .

Gen 15.6 . Rom. 4.18 . Gal. 3.6 . I am 2.23 . Abraham beleued in God , and it was imputed to him for righteousnes .

Hose . 2.20 . I will euen marrie thee vnto me , in faithfulnesse , and thou shalt know the Lord .

Habak . 2.4 . Rom. 1.17 . Gal. 3.11 . But the iust shall liue by his faith .

Marke 16 , 16. He that shall beleeue and be baptised , shall be saued .

Ioh . 3.14 . And as Moses lifte vp the serpent in the wildernesse , so must the sonne of man be lifted vp . 15. that whosoeuer beleeueth in him , should not perish but haue eternall life , 16. For God so loued the world , that he hath giuen his onely begotten sonne , that whosoeuer beleeueth in him should not perish , but haue euerlasting life . 17. For God sent not his sonne into the world , that he should condemne the world , but that the world through him might be saued . 18. He that beleeueth in him shall not be condemned .

Iohn . 5 24. Verely , verely , I say vnto you , he that heareth my worde , and beleeueth in him that sent me , hath euerlasting life , and shall not come into condemnation , but hath passed from death into life .

Iohn 6.29 . This is the worke of God , that ye beleeue in him whom he hath sent . 40. And this is the will of him that sent me , that euery man that seeth the sonne , and beleueth in him should haue life euerlastinge .

Act. 10.43 . To him also giue all the Prophetes witnesse , that through his name , all that beleeue in him , shall receaue remission of sinnes .

Act. 15 9. After that by faith he had purified their heartes .

Rom. 3.28 . Therefore we conclude that a man is iustified by faith without the workes of the law .

Rom. 10.9 . and Isaias 28.26 . For if thou shalt confesse with thy mouth the Lord Iesus , and shalt beleeue in thine heart , that God raised him vp from the dead , thou shalt be saued . 10. For with the heart man beleeueth vnto righteousnesse , and with the mouth man confesseth to saluation . 11. For the scripture sayth , whosoeuer beleeueth in him shall not be ashamed .

Gal. 2.16 . Knowe that a man is not iustified by the workes of the Law , but by the faith of Iesus Christ , euen we I say , haue beleeued in Iesus Christ , that we might be iustified by the faith of Christ , and not by the workes of the law , because that by the workes of the Law , no flesh shall be iustified .

Gal. 3.11 . And that no man is iustified by the Law in the sight of God , it is euident : for the iust shall liue by faith .

Ephes , 2.5 . Euen when we were dead by sinnes , he hath quickened vs together in Christ , by whose grace ye are saued .

1. Pet . 1.8 . In whom now , though he see him not , yet do you beleeue , & reioyce with ioy vnspeakeable & glorious . 9. Receauing the end of your faith , euen the saluation of your soules .

THOSE THAT BELEEVE not , are damned .

Nomb . 14.11 . And the Lord saide vnto Moses , How longe will this people prouoke me , and how long will it be , ere they beleeue me , for all the signes that I haue shewed amonge them ? 12. I will smite them with pestelence and destroy them ,

Nomb . 20.12 . Because ye beleeued me not , to sanctifie me in the presence of the children of Israell , therefore ye shal not bring this congregation into the land which I haue giuen them .

Psal . 78.21 . Therefore the Lorde heard and was angry , and the fire was kindled in Iaacob , and also wrath came vpon Israell . 22. Because they beleeued not in God , and trusted not in his helpe .

Esa . 7.9 . If ye beleeue not , surelie ye shall not be established .

Marke 16.16 . But he that will not beleeue , shall be damned .

Luke 1.20 . And behold , thou shalt be dumbe , and not able to speake , vntill the day that these thinges be done , because thou beleeuedst not my wordes , which shall he fulfilled in their season .

Iohn . 3.18 . But he that beleeueth not is condemned alreadie , because he beleeueth not in the name of the onely begotten sonne of God .

Iohn . 8.24 . For except ye beleeue that I am he , ye shall die in your sinnes .

THERE IS A FAYNED fayth which is but a vaine and a dead fayth .

1. Cor . 13.2 . And though I had the gift of prophesie , and knew all secretes , & all knowledge , yea , if I had all faith , so that I could remoue mountaines , and had not loue , I were nothing .

1. Tim . 1.5 . For the end of the commaundement is loue out of a pure heart , and of a good conscience , and of faith vnfayned .

2. Tim . 1.5 . When I call to remembraunce the vnfayned faith that is in thee .

Titus . 1.16 . They professe that they know God , but by workes they deny him , and are abhominable and disobedient , and vnto euerie good worke reprobate .

Iames . 2.17 . Euen so the faith if it haue no works , is dead in it selfe . 18. But some man might say , thou hast the faith and I haue workes : shewe me thy fayth out of thy workes , and I will shew thee my faith by my workes . 19. Thou beleeuest that there is one God : thou doest well : the deuilles also beleeue it and tremble . 20. But wilt thou vnderstand , O thou vaine man , that the faith which is without workes is dead .

Man which accordinge vnto his first estate was created good and perfect , hath afterward made him selfe , through his owne fault , poore and miserable , & that which worse is , hath altogether alienated and estraunged him selfe from God , with out any good hope or assuraunce of reconciliation , but rather with a terrible expectation and attent of the iudgement and wrath of God whom he had offended , had it not bene that God had remedied it , by one onely meane , which is to shew pitie and mercie vpon him : in such sort notwithstanding that he receiue this benefite by a firme and stronge faith , and stay himselfe theron with a sure hope . Faith therefore is the onely & necessary meanes to haue accesse vnto the heauenlie father : the which he that hath not , he can not onely come before the fauourable face of God but is also condemned alreadie to eternall and euerlasting perdition . But it must be a true faith , not a fayned faith : a liuely faith , and not a dead faith , and of heart , and not of outward shew and appearaunce , as that of the hypocrites , but that which beinge founded and established , vpon the word of God , & not vpon the lightnesse of mens vnderstanding , it be firme and without all doubt .

FAITH IF IT BE NOT founded and builded vpon the word of God is vaine .

Nom . 9.18 . At the commaundement of the Lord the children of Israell iourneyed , and at the commaundement of the Lord they pitched . 20. for they iourneyed at the commaundement of the Lord . 23. Keeping the watch of the Lord at the commaundement of the Lord , by the hand of Moses .

Deut . 6 6. And these wordes which I commaund thee this day , shal be in thine heart . 7. And thou shalt rehearse them continually vnto thy children , and shalt talke of them when thou tariest in thine house , and thou walkest by the way , and when thou liest downe , and when thou risest vp . 8. And thou shalt binde them for a signe vpon thine hand , and they shall be as frontlets betwene thine eies . 9. Also thou shalt write them vpon the poste of thine house , and vpon thy gates .

Psalm . 119.105 . Thy word is a lanterne vnto my feete , and a guide vnto my pathes .

Actes 17.11 . Which receaued the word with all readinesse , and searched the scriptures dayly , whether it were so .

Rom. 10.14 . But how shall they call on him , whom they haue not beleeued ? and how shall they beleeue in him , of whom they haue not heard ? and howe shall they heare without a preacher ? ●5 . And how shall they preach , except they be sent ? 17. Then faith is by hearinge , and hearing by the word of God .

Ephes . 2.19 . Now therefore ye are no more straungers and forreners : but citizens with the Saintes , and of the houshold of God . 20. And are built vpon the foundation of the Apostles and Prophetes , Iesus Christ being the chiefe corner stone . 21. In whom all the building coupled together , groweth vnto an holy temple in the Lord . 22. In whom ye also are built together to be the habitation of God by the spirit .

Hebr . 11.11 . Through faith Sara also receaued strength to conceaue seede , and was deliuered of a childe when she was past age , because she iudged him faithfull which had promised .

Faith hath two partes : the one is a certaine and sure knowledge , and ( as it is called ) science , by the which we agree with that which is rehearsed in the word of God , and beleue that all that therein is contained is true and veritable , and especiallie aboue the rest , that which concerneth the dispensation of our health . The other is a firme and full hope , by the which the heart doth firmelie rest vpon the truth which shee hath knowen . Now the summe of those thinges contained in the scripture ( which is the word of God ) and which we ought necessarily to know , and vpon the which the assuraunce of our Saluation is chiefly founded , it is set forth before vs in the Creede , called the Apostles , whereof followeth the exposition .

I beleeue .

We say in the singuler number , I beleeue , rather then in the plurall , we beleeue : for as much as it is not enough to haue a confused and generall faith , referring themselues to the faith of another , yea , although they referre them selues to the faith of the whole Church , if euery one hath not faith for him selfe , and doeth not beleeue in particuler . For whatsoeuer faith other haue , yea , and the Church it selfe , if euery one haue it not particulerly , that will not serue any thinge at all to be saued , to him that shall be of sufficient age to beleeue .

AN OTHERS FAITH is not sufficient to saue vs.

Ierem . 15.1 . Though Moses and Samuell stoode before me , yet mine affection could not be toward this people : cast them out of my sight , and let them departe .

Ezechiel 14.14 . Though these three men , Noah , Daniell , and Iacob , were amonge them , they should deliuer but their owne soules , by their righteousnes saith the Lord God . 16. Though these three men were in the middest thereof , As I liue , saith the Lord God , they shall saue neither sonnes nor daughters . &c.

Habakuk . 2.4 . The iust shall liue by his saith .

Marke 16.16 . He that shall beleeue and be baptized , shall be saued : but he that will not beleeue shall be damned .

In God the father .

Isaias 64.8 . But now O Lord , thou art our father : we are the clay , and thou art our potter , and we all are the worke of thy handes .

Math . 23.9 . And call no man your father vpon the earth , for there is but one , your father which is in heauen . Ioh . 20.17 . I ascend vnto my father , and your father , & to my God , & your God .

Rom. 8.15 . But ye haue receaued the spirit of adoption , whereby we crie Abba father . 16. The same spirit beareth witnesse with our spirit , that wee are the children of God .

Ephes . 4.5 . There is one Lord , one faith , one baptisme . 6. One God and father of all , which is aboue all , and thorough all , and in you all .

This word one , is put downe with a litle pricke , and distinguished with pointes , as if he would say , Christ cannot be deuided , the faith cannot be separated in two , and there are not diuerse baptismes , we must therfore entertaine and keepe a holy vnion togeather which consisteth of so many bandes . We confesse and acknowledge the inestimable goodnes and fatherly good will that he hath towardes vs , that he willeth vs well as a good father .

Almightie .

Psal . 115.3 . But our God is in heauen , he doth whatsoeuer he will .

Psal . 135.6 . Whatsoeuer pleaseth the Lorde that did he in heauen and in earth , in the sea & in all the depth . &c.

Ierem . 32.17 . As the Lord God , beholde , thou hast made the heauen and the earth by thy great power , & by thy stretched out arme , and there is nothing harde vnto the . 27. Beholde I am the Lorde God of all fleshe : is there any thing to harde for me ?

Mat . 19.26 . With men this is vnpossible , but with God all things are possible .

Luk . 1.37 . For with God shal nothing be vnpossible .

He is not onely almightie , but he is he , which is the almightie alone .

Iob . 9.4 . He is wise in hearte and mightie in strength who hath bene farre against him , and hath prospered ?

5. He remoueth the mountaines & they feele not when he ouerthroweth them in his wrath . 6. He remoueth the earth out of her place , that the pillers thereof do shake .

Psal . 35.10 . All my bones shall saie , Lorde who is like vnto thee , which deliuerest the poore from him , that is to stronge for him ? yea the poore and him that is in miserie , from him that spoileth him .

Psal . 71.19 . And thy righteousnes , O God , I wil exalt on high : for thou hast done great thinges : O God , who is like vnto thee .

Psal . 89 6. For who is equall to the Lord in the heauen ? and who is like the Lorde among the sonnes of their Gods ? 7. God is very terrible in the assembly of the Saincts , and to be reuerenced aboue all that are aboue him . 8. O Lord of hostes , who is like vnto the , which art a mightie Lorde , and thy truth is aboue thee . 9. Thou rulest the raging of the sea : when the waues therof do arise thou stillest them . &c.

Esai . 40.10 . Beholde the Lorde will come with power , and his arme shall rule for him : beholde his wages is with him , and his worke before him . 12. Who hath measured the waters in his fiste ? and counted heauen with the spanne , and comprehended the dust of the earth in a measure ? and weighed , the mountaines in a weight , and the hilles in a ballance . 13. Who hath instructed the spirite of the Lord ? or was his counsellour and taught him ? 15. Behold the nations are as a droppe of a bucket , and are counted as the dust of the ballance : beholde he taketh away the Isles as a litle dust . 17. All nations before him are as nothing , and they are counted to him lesse then nothing , and vanitie .

In confessing God to be almightie , we doe not only attribute vnto him all might and power , but we do also take it from all other thinges whatsoeuer they be . And that doth also serue for the confirmation of our faith for , for to confirme it we must conioyne and annex these two thinges togeather , to witte the will and the might and power . That if a man leaue the one of them , faith wil be vncertaine ,

Creatour of heauen and of earth .

Genes . 1.1 . In the beginning God created the heauen and the earth .

Psal . 33.6 . By the worde of the Lorde were the heauens made and all the honstes of them by the breath of his mouth .

Psal . 102.25 . Thou hast aforetime laide the foundation of the earth , and the heauens are the worke of thyne handes .

Esai . 42.5 . Thus saith God the Lorde ( he that created the heauens and spred them abroade : he that stretcheth forth the earth , and the buddes thereof , he that giueth breath vnto the people vpon it , and spirite to them that walke therein )

Ierem . 10.12 . He hath made the earth by his power , and established the worlde by his wisedome , and hath stretched out the heauens by his discretion

Ierem . 32.17 . Ah Lord God beholde , thou hast made the heauen and thy earth by thy great power , and by the stretched forth arme , and there is nothing hard vnto ●hee .

Actes 4.24 . O Lord , thou art the God which hath made the heauens and the earth , the sea and all thinges that are therein .

Act. 17.24 . God that hath made the worlde and all thinges that are therein seeing that he is Lorde of heauen , and of earth dwelleth not in temples made with handes .

Rom. 11.36 . For of him and through him , and for him are all thinges . &c.

1. Cor . 8.6 . Yet vnto vs there is but one God which is the father of whom are all thinges and we by him .

As God through his power and might hath created all thinges , so likewise through his diuine prouidence he maintaineth and conducteth all thinges , without the which nothing doth happen or chaunce .

Exod . 21.13 . And if a man hath not laide waite , but God hath offred him into his handes , then I will appoint thee a place whether he shall flie .

2. Chron . 11.4 . Thus saith the Lord , ye shall not go vp , nor fight against your breathren , returne euery man to his house : for this thing is done of me .

Iob . 12.17 . He causeth the counsellers to goe as spoyled , and maketh the Iudges fooles . 19. He leadeth away the Princes as a pray , and ouerthroweth the mightie . 20. He taketh away the speach from the faithfull counsellers , and taketh away the iudgement of the auncient . 21. He powreth contempt vpon Princes and maketh the strength of the mightie weake .

Psal . 33.10 . The Lorde breaketh the counsell of the heathen , and bringeth to naught the deuises of the people .

Prouerb . 16.1 . The preparations of the heart are in man : but the aunswere of the tongue is of the Lorde .

Ierem . 10.13 . He giueth by his voice the multitude of waters in the heauen , and he causeth the cloudes to ascende from the endes of the earth : he turneth lightning vnto raine , & bringeth forth the winde out of his treasures . 23. O Lord , I know , that the way of man is not in himselfe , neither is it in man to walke and to direct his steps .

Daniel . 2.21 . And he changeth the times & seasons : he taketh away kings : he setteth vp kinges , he giueth wisedome vnto the wise , and vnderstanding to those that vnderstand . 22 He discouereth the deepe and secrete thinges : he knoweth what is in the darkenes , and the light dwelleth with him .

Amos . 3.6 . Or shall there be any euill in the citie , and the Lorde hath done it ?

Matth . 10.29 . Are not two sparrowes solde for a farthing , & one of them shall not fall vpon the ground without your father ? 30. Yea , and all the heares of your head are numbred ,

Ihon . 5.17 . My father worketh hitherto , and I worke .

Act. 17.28 . For in him we liue and moue and haue our being . &c.

1. Peter . 5.7 . Cast all your care on him : for he careth for you .

For the praise of this admirable prouidence of God , reade the psal . 104. & 105. & 106. & 107. Item . Isaias . 45. Chapter .

Here we confesse two things : the one is that all thinges had a beginning , and that there is nothing that hath not had a beginning wherin we put a difference betwen God the creatour & othe creatures : for the eternitie and the essence or being by it selfe is so proper vnto God , that , for that he is god . wherfore if the world or any thing beside God , were of eternitie and without beginning , it must also of necessitie be God . Now there is but one God : there is therfore nothing that hath not a beginning , God excepted . Secondarilie we confesse that it is God that hath created all things , & that all things were made by the worde of God , & nothing hath bene made without it . Now the prouidence of God ( by the which he doth guide and gouerne all thinges ) is so ioyned with the creation of the worlde : that it can not be separated : and God can not be the creatour , but that he be also the conductour . Wherefore in confessing the one we confesse also the other : And vnder the worde of creatour we vnderstand also that he maintaneth , guideth and conducteth heauen and earth . Moreouer by the words heauen and earth are comprehended all celestial and terrestriall thinges , and are brought vnder the creation & prouidence of God .

And in Iesus Christ .

Isaias 28.16 . He that beleeueth shall make haste .

Iohn 3.18 . He that beleeueth in him shall not be condemned : but he that beleeueth not is condemned alreadie . &c. 36. He that beleueth in the Sonne , hath euerlastinge life , and he that obeyeth not the Sonne , shall not see life , but the wrath of God abideth on him .

Iohn 6.29 . This is the worke of God , that ye beleeue in him whom he hath sent . 40. And this is the will of him that sent me , that euerie man that seeth the Sonne , and beleeueth in him : should haue euerlastinge life : and I will raise him up at the last day . 47. He that beleeueth in me hath euerlastinge life .

Iohn 9.35 . Iesus saide , doest thou beleeue in the Sonne of God ? 36. He answered and saide , who is he Lord , that I might beleeue in him ? 37. And Iesus said vnto him , both thou hast seene him and he it is that talketh with thee .

Ioh . 14.1 . Let not your heart be troubled , ye beleeue in God , beleeue also in me . 12. Verely , verely I say vnto you , he that beleeueth in me , the workes that I do , he shall do also , and greater then these shall he do : For I go vnto my father .

Rom. 9.33 . & 10 11. & 1. Peter 2.6 . For the scripture saith , who soeuer beleeueth in him , shall not be ashamed .

Rom. 15.12 . And againe Isaias saith , There shall be a roote of Iesse , and he that shall rise to raigne ouer the Gentiles , in him shall the Gentiles trust .

Gal. 2.16 . We haue beleeued in Iesus Christ , that we might be iustified by the faith of Christ .

1. Ioh . 5.10 . He that beleeueth in the Sonne of God , hath the witnesse in him selfe . &c.

It is not therefore without cause , that we say that we beleeue in Iesus Christ aswell as in God the father , sith that the holy scripture teacheth vs to speake in that sort , and thence we gather that he is God .

Iesus .

Mat . 1.21 . And shee shall bring● foorth a Sonne , and thou shalt call his name Iesus : for he shall saue his people from their sinnes .

Luc . 1.31 . For lo , thou shalt conceiue in thy wombe , and beare a sonne , and shalt call his name Iesus .

Luke 2.10 . Be not afraide , for behold , I bring you tidinges of great ioye , that shall be to all people . 11. That is , that vnto you is borne this day in the citie of Dauid a Sauiour , which is Christ the Lord .

Luk . 19.9 . This day is saluation come vnto this house , forasmuch as he is also become the Sonne of Abraham . 10. For the sonne of man is come to seeke and saue that which was lost .

Ioh . 3.17 . For God sent not his sonne into the world that he should condemne the world , but that the world through him might be saued . 18. He that beleeueth in him shal not be condemned : but he that beleeueth not is condemned alreadie , because he beleeueth not in the name of the onely begotten Sonne of God .

Act. 4.10 . Be it knowen vnto you all , and to all the people of Israell , that by the name of Iesus Christ of Nazareth , whom ye haue crucified , whom God raised againe from the dead , euen by him doeth this man stand here before you , whole . 12. Neither is there saluation in any other : for amonge men there is giuen none other name vnder heauen , whereby we must be saued .

Act. 5.30 . The God of our fathers hath raised vp Iesus , whom ye slew and hanged on a tree . 31. Him hath God lifte vp with his right hand , to be a Prince and a sauiour , to geue repentaunce to Israell , and forgeuenesse of sinnes .

Actes . 13 , 22. I haue found Dauid the Sonne of Iesse , a man after mine owne heart , which will do all thinges that I will . 23. Of this mans seede hath God accordinge to his promise raised vp to Israell , that sauiour Iesus .

1. Tim . 1.15 . This is a true sayinge , and by all meanes worthie to be receaued , that Christ Iesus came into the world to saue sinners , of whome I am chiefe .

Titus . 2 , 13. Looking for that blessed hope , and appearing of the glorie of the mightie God , and of our Sauiour Iesus Christ . 14. Who gaue him selfe for vs that he might redeeme vs from all iniquitie , and purge vs to be a peculier people vnto him selfe , zelous of good workes .

1. Iohn 4.14 . And we haue seene & do testifie , that the father sent the sonne to be the sauiour of the world . 15. Who soeuer confesseth that Iesus is the sonne of God , in him dwelleth God , and he in God .

This name Iesus , beinge taken from the Hebrew tongue signifieth Sauiour : and the reason wherefore he is so called , is giuen in the words of the Aungell : for he shall saue his people from their sinnes . Therefore then by this name , we are admonished that he is our sauiour , and that we must not elsewhere seeke saluation . Briefly we vnderstand nothing else but that which S. Peter saith in the place before alleadged of the Act. 4.12 . That which we also here confesse , and protest , that all the meanes which men shall inuent , for to attaine saluation , are soe manie abuses .

Christ .

Psal . 2.1 . Why do the heathen rage & the people murmure in vaine ? 2. The kinges of the earth band them selues , & the Princes are assembled together against the Lord , and against his Christ ?

Psal . 45.8 . Heb . 1.9 . Thou hast loued righteousnes and hated iniquitie . Wherefore God euen thy God hath anointed thee with the oyle of gladnes aboue thy fellowes .

Esai . 61.1 . Luke . 4.18 . The spirite of the Lorde is vpon me , because he hath anointed me , that I shoulde preache the Gospell to the poore : he hath sent me that I shoulde heale the broken harted : and 19. And that I shoulde preach the acceptable yeare of the Lorde .

Daniel . 9.25 . Know therefore and vnderstand , that from the going out of the commandement to bring againe the people , and to builde Ierusalem , vnto Messias the prince , shal be . 7. weekes , & threscore and two weekes , and the strete shal be built againe , and the wall euen in a troublesome time . 26. And after threescoare and two weekes , shall Messias be slaine , and shall haue nothing , and the people of the Prince that shall come , shall destroy the citie and the sanctuarie , and the ende thereof shal be with a floud : and vnto the ende of the battell it shallbe destroyed by desolation .

Act. 4.27 . For doubtles , against thine holy sonne Iesus whom thou haddest anointed , both Herod and Pontius Pilate , with the Gentiles and the people of Israel gathered themselues togeather .

Act. 10.38 . To witte , how God annointed Iesus of Nazareth with the holy Ghost , and with power : who went about doing good , and healing all that were oppressed of the diuill : for God was with him .

This worde Christ is taken from the Greeke tongue , and signifieth as much as anointed , and in Hebrew Messias . This worde is properly giuen to our Lorde to signifie the office which was giuen vnto him of his father , to wit , to be a King , Priest and Prophet in his Church . And the worde doth importe that , forasmuch as those which aunciently were called to these three offices , were outwardly anointed with oyle . Our Lorde also was annointed not with visible oyle , as the other , but with fulnes of the holy Ghost for to administer those three offices . We confesse therefore that he is our great King , high Priest , and heauenly Prophet .

CHRIST IS THE ETERnall soueraigne and only high Prieste .

Psal . 118.4 . The Lorde sware and will not repent thou art a priest for euer after the order of Melchi-zedek .

Hebr 3.1 . Therefore holy breathren , partakers of the heauenly vocation , consider the Apostle and high Priest of our profession Christ Iesus . 2. Who was faithfull to him that hath appointed him , euen as Moises was in all his house .

Heb 4.14 . Seeing then that we haue a greater high priest , which is entred into heauen , euen Iesus the sonne of God , let vs holde fast our profession . 15. For we haue not an high prieste which can not be touched with the feeling of our infirmities , but was in all thinges tempted in like sort , yet without sinne .

Heb . 5.5 . So likewise Christ tooke not to himselfe this honour , to be made the high Priest , but he that saide vnto him , Thou art my sonne , this day begat I thee , gaue it him . 6. As also in an other place he speaketh . Thou art a priest for euer after the order of Melchi-zedek .

Heb . 6.19 . Which we haue as an ancar of the soule both sure & stedfast , & it entreth into that which is within the vaile : 02. whither the forrunner is for vs entred in , euen Iesus that is made an high priest for euer after the order of Melchizedec

Heb . 7.20 . And forasmuch as it is not without an oth ( for these ar made priests without an oth , by him that saide vnto him , the Lorde hath sworne , and will not repent thou art a priest for euer after the order of Melchisedec ) 23. And among them many were made priests , because they were not suffered to endure , by the reason of death .

24 , But this man , because he endureth euer , hath an euerlasting priesthood , 25. Wherefore , he is able also perfectly to saue them that come vnto God by him , seeing he euerliueth to make intercession for them . 26. For such a high priest it became vs to haue which is holy , harmeles , vndefiled , separate from sinners , and made hier then the heauens . 28. For the lawe maketh them high priestes , which haue infirmitie : but the worde of the oth that was since the law , maketh the sonne , who is consecrated for euermore .

Heb . 8.1 . Now of thinges which we haue spoken , this is the summe that we haue such an high priest , that sitteth a● the right hand of the throne of the maiestie in heauens . 9.11 . But Christ being come an high priest of good thinges to come , by a greater and a more perfect tabernacle , not made with handes , that is not of this building . 12. Neither by the bloud of goates & calues : but by his owne bl●od entred he once into the holy place , and obtained eternall redemption for vs. 26. But now in the end hath he appeared once to put away sinne , by the sacrifice of himselfe . 10.12 . But this man after he had offred one sacrifice for sinnes , sitteth at the right hande of God . 13. And from henceforth tarieth till his enemies be made his footestole . 14. For with one offring hath he consecrated for euer them that are sanctified .

He is the high priest , forasmuch as by one only oblation & sacrifice which he offred on the crosse of the death of his owne bodie , and the sheeding of his owne bloud , he hath fully and wholy reconciled to God his father , and now sitteth at his right hande for to make intercession for vs , and obtaine grace and fauour for vs.

CHRIST IS KINGE HAuing vanquished death , hell , the deuill , and the worlde .

Math . 4.3 . Then came to him the tempter , and saide , If thou be the sonne of God , commaund that these stones be made bread . 4. But he answering saide , It is written , man shall not liue by bread onely , but by euery word that proceadeth out of the mouth of God . 5. Then the deuill tooke him vp into the holy citie , and set him on the pinacle . 6. And said vnto him , if thou be the Sonne of God , cast thy selfe downe : for it is written , He will giue his Aungelles charge ouer thee , and with their handes they shall lift thee vp , lest at any time thou shouldest dash thy foote against a stone . 7. Iesus said vnto him , it is written , thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God . 8. Againe the deuill tooke him vp into an exceeding high mountaine , and shewed him all the kingedomes of the world , & the glorie of them . 9. And said to him , all these will I giue thee , if thou wilt fall downe and worship me . 10. Then said Iesus vnto him , auoide Satan : for it is written , thou shalt worship the Lord thy God , and him onely shalt thou serue . 11. Then the deuill left him : and beholde , the Aungels came and ministred vnto him .

Iohn . 12.31 . Now is the iudgement of this world : now shall the prince of this world be cast out .

Ioh . 14.30 . Herafter will I not speake many thinges vnto you : for the prince of this world commeth , and hath nought in me .

Iohn 16.11 . Of iudgement , because the prince of this world is iudged . 33. In the world ye shall haue affliction , but be of go●d comfort : I haue ouercome the world .

Act. 2.23 . Him I say , haue ye taken by the handes of the wicked . 24. Whom God hath raised vp , and lowsed the sorowes of death , because it was impossible that he should be holden of it .

Rom. 6.9 . Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead , dieth no more : death hath no more dominion ouer him . 10. For in that he died , he died once to sinne : but in that he liueth , he liueth to God .

1. Cor . 15.25 . For he must raigne till he haue put all his enemies vnder his feete . 26. The last enemie that shall be destroyed is death . 54. So when this corruptible hath put on incorruption : and this mortall hath put on immortalitie , then shall be brought to passe the saying which is written , death is swallowed vp into victorie . 55. O Death where is thy stinge ? O graue where is thy victorie ? 56. The stinge of death is sinne ; and the strength of sinne is the Law . 57. But thankes be to God which hath giuen vs victorie through our Lord Iesus Christ .

Eph. 4.8 . Wherefore he saith , when he ascended vp on high , he led captiuitie captiue and gaue giftes vnto men .

Col. 2.13 . And ye which were dead in sinnes , and in the vncircumcision of your flesh , hath he quickned together with him , forgiuinge you all your trespasses . 14. And putting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against vs , he euen tooke it out of the way , and fastened it vpon the crosse . 15. And hath spoiled the principalities and powers , & hath made a shew of them openly , and hath triumphed ouer them in the same crosse .

2. Tim . 1.10 . But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Sauiour Iesus Christ , who hath abolished death , and hath brought life and immortalitie vnto light through the Gospell .

Hebr . 2.14 . Forasmuch then as the children were partakers of flesh and bloud , he also himselfe tooke part with them , that he might destroie through death , him that had the power of death that is , the deuil . 15. And that he might deliuer all thē , which for feare of death were all their life time subiect to bondage .

He is kinge : for he hath ouercom the Deuill , the worlde , sinne , death , and hell , vnder whose tyrannie wee were holden captiues , and are set free by the power of this victorious king , and we are dayly defended & preserued vnder his hand and protection against all our enemies . So that there is noth●ng that can hurt vs : and albeit we are continuallie and in diuerse sortes assaulted , notwithstandinge the victorie shall alwaies remaine vnto vs , insomuch as we runne backe to the ensigne of this puissaunt kinge .

IESVS CHRIST IS a Prophet .

Deut . 18.15 . The Lord thy God will raise vp vnto thee a Prophet like vnto me , from among you , euen of thy brethren : vnt● him ye shall harken . 18. I will raise them vp a Prophet from among their brethren like ●nto thee and will put my w rd●● 〈◇〉 ●is mouth , and he shall sp●●k● 〈…〉 that I shall 〈…〉

Iere● . 〈…〉 that I will make with the house of Israell . After those dayes , saith the Lorde , I will put my lawe in their inward partes and write it in their harts , and will be their God , and they shal be my people . 34. And they shall teach no more euerie man his neighbour and euerie man his brother . &c.

Luke . 24.18 . Art thou only a straunger in Ierusalem , and hast not knowen the thinges that are come to passe therein in these dayes . 19. And he saide vnto them what thinges ? And they saide vnto him of Iesus of Nazereth , which was a Prophet mightie in deede , and in worde before God , and all the people .

Ihon . 6.14 . Then the men when they had seene the miracle that Iesus did , saide . This is of a truth the prophet that should come into the worlde .

Ihon 8.12 . I am the light of the world : he that followeth me , shall not walke in darkenes , but shall haue the light of life .

Iohn . 15.15 . But I haue called you friendes , for all things that I haue hard of my father haue I made knowen vnto you .

Rom. 15.8 . Nowe I saye that Iesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision , for the truth of God , to confirme the promises made vnto the fathers .

Tit . 2.11 . For the grace of God , that bringeth saluation vnto all men , hath appeared . 12. And teacheth vs that we should denie vngodlynes and worldly lustes , and that we shoulde liue soberly and righteously and godly in this present worlde .

Hebr . 1.1 . At sundrie times and in diuerse maners God spake in the olde time to our fathers by the prophets . 2. In these last dayes he hath spoken vnto vs by his sonne . &c.

Our Lord was not a Prophet for this only , that he hath declared vnto men the law and will of God as the other prophetes : but also because he hath engrauen and imprinted it in their heartes , & gaue the holy Ghost to lighten , regenerate and renew them . And hath not onely exercised this office , whiles that he preached himselfe , and that with his owne mouth : but doth yet dayly exercise the same , when he giueth the vertue and force to the hartes of men by his holy spirite , to vnderstand and accomplish the will of God , without the which the seruice of all men , cannot be but a dead letter .

His sonne .

Math . 3.17 . And lo , a voice came from heauen , saying this is my beloued sonne , in whom I am wel pleased .

Matth . 14.33 . Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him , saying , of a truth thou art the sonne of God .

Matth . 16.16 . Thou art Christ the sonne of the liuing God .

Luke . 1.32 . He shall be great and shal be called the sonne of the moste high .

Iohn . 1.49 . Nathaniel aunswered & saide vnto him , Rabbi , thou art the sonne of God : thou art the king of Israell .

Iohn . 6.69 . And we beleeued and knowe thou art the Christ the sonne of the lyuing God . 11.27 . Yea , Lord , I beleeue that thou art Christ the sonne of God , which should come into the world .

Iohn . 20.31 . But these thinges are written , that ye might beleeue that Iesus is the Christ the sonne of God , & that in beleeuing ye might haue life through his name .

Rom. 1.23 , Concerning his sonne Iesus Christ our Lorde , which was made of the seede of Dauid according to the flesh . 4. And declared mightely to be the sonne of God .

2. Cor . 4.4 Col. 1.15 . Who is the image of the inuisible God , the first borne of euery creature . 16. For by him were all things created , which are in heauen , and in earth , thinges visible , and inuisible whether they be thrones , or Dominions , or Principalities , or powers , all thinges were created by him and for him . 17. And he is before all thinges , and in him all thinges consist .

Hebr . 1.2 . In these last dayes he hath spoken vnto vs , by his sonne , whome he hath made heir of all thinges , by whom also he made the worlde . 3. Who being the brightnes of the glorie , & the ingrauen forme of his person , and bearing vp all thinges by his mightie word , hath by him selfe purged our sinnes and sitteth at the right hand of the maiestie in the hiest places . 4. And is made so much the more excellent then the Angelles in as much as he hath obtained a more excellent name then they 5. For to which of the Angels saide he at any time . Thou art my sonne ; this daye begat I thee ? and againe , I will be his father , and he shal be my sonne .

Onely .

Iohn . 1.14 . And the worde was made flesh , and dwelt among vs , ( and we saw the glorie thereof , as the glorie of the onely begotten sonne of the father ) full of grace and truthe 18. No man hath seene God at any time : the only begotten sonne which is in the bosome of the father , he hath declared him .

Ihon . 3.16 . For God so loued the worlde that he hath giuen his only begotten sonne , that whosoeuer beleeueth in him shall not perish , but haue euerlasting life . 18. But he that beleueth not , is alreadie condemned , because he beleeueth not in the name of the onely begotten sonne of God .

1. Ihon . 4.9 . In this appeared the loue of God towardes vs , because God sent his onely begotten sonne into the world , that we might liue through him .

WE ARE ALSO THE children of God .

1. Iohn 3.1 . Behold , what loue the father hath shewed on vs , that we should be called the sonnes of God : for this cause the world knoweth you not , be cause it knoweth not me . 2. Dearely beloued now are we the sonnes of God , but yet it doth not appeare what we shal be .

1. Iohn 5.1 . Whosoeuer beleeueth that Iesus is the Christ , is borne of God .

HEREOF YOV MAIE looke for manie more places , fol. 40. 41. 42.

Albeit the name of Sonne be common to Iesus Christ and to vs , so is he called the first borne among manie brethren , and the first borne of all creatures , which is not without a cause , but it is to shew , that it is not both for one reason , or in one respect that he and we are called the Sonnes of God , for there is such a difference , that he is the naturall Sonne of God , consubstantiall , & co-eternall with him , and borne of his owne substance eternally : and wee are not but by grace of adoption , it is to say , that forasmuch as God through his goodnesse , hath receaued and chosen vs for his children , making vs partakers and heires of his goodes , as if we were of his familie , and borne and bredde in his owne howse .

Our Lord .

Ierem . 30.9 . But they shall serue the Lord their God , and Dauid their king , whom I will raise vp vnto them .

Ezechiell 30.24 . And Dauid my seruaunt shall be king ouer them .

Dan . 7.13 . Behold , one like the sonne of man came in the cloudes of heauen , and approched vnto the auncient of dayes , and they brought him before him . 14. And he gaue him dominion & honour , and a kingedome that all people , nations , and languages , should serue him : his dominion is an euerlasting dominion , which shall neuer be taken away : and his kingedome shall neuer be destroyed .

Mich . 5.2 . And thou Bethleem Ephratah , art litle to be among the thousandes of Iudah , yet out of thee shall he come foorth vnto me , that shall be the ruler in Israell .

Mat . 11.27 . All thinges are giuen vnto me of my father .

Mat . 28.18 . All power is giuen vnto me in heauen and in eartb .

Luke 1.32 . He shall be great , and shall be called the Sonne of the moste high , and the Lord God shall giue vnto him the throne of his father Dauid . 33. And he shall raigne ouer the house of Iacob for euer , and of his kingedome shall be none end .

Luk . 2.11 . That is , that vnto you this day is borne in the citie of Dauid , a Sauiour , which is Christ the Lord .

Iohn . 13.3 . Iesus knowinge that the father had giuen all thinges into his handes , and that he was come from God and went to God .

Iohn . 17 2. As thou hast giuen him power ouer all flesh , that he should giue eternall life to all them that thou hast giuen him .

Act. 10.36 . Preaching peace by Iesus Christ , which is the Lord af all .

Rom. 14.9 . For Christ therefore died , and rose againe and reuiued , that he might be Lord both of the dead , and of the quicke .

1. Corinth . 6.19 . And ye are not your owne . 20. For ye are bought with a price .

1. Corin . 7.23 . Ye are bought with a price , be not the seruauntes of men .

1. Cor . 8.6 . Yet vnto vs there is but one God , which is the father , of whom are all thinges , and we in him .

1. Cor . 15.25 . Heb . 2.8 . For he must raigne till he hath put all his enemies vnder his feete . 26. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death . 27. For he hath put downe all thinges vnder his feete .

Eph. 11.20 . Which he wrought in Christ , when he raised him from the dead , and set him at his right hand in the heauenlie places . 21. Farre aboue all principalitie , and power , and might , and domination , and euerie name that is named , not in this world onely , but also in that which is to come . 22. And hath made all thinges subiect vnder his feete , and hath appointed him ouer all thinges to be the head to the Church .

Phil . 2.9 . Wherefore God hath also highly exalted him , and giuen him a name aboue euerie name , that at the name of Iesus should euerie knee bowe , both of thinges in heauen , and of things in earth , and thinges vnder the earth . 11. And that euerie tongue should confesse that Iesus Christ is the Lord , vnto the glorie of God the father .

Coll . 2.9 . For in him dwelleth all the fulnes of the Godhead bodely . 10. And ye are complet in him , which is the head of all principalitie and power .

1. Pet . 1.18 . Knowing that ye were not redeemed with corruptible thinges , as siluer and golde , from your vaine conuersation , receaued by the traditions of the fathers . 19. But with the precious bloud of Iesus Christ , as with a lambe vndefiled , and without spot .

Iesus Christ is called maister , and Lord , for two reasons : The first is because of his soueraigne power , which he hath ouer all thinges according to his diuinitie , inasmuch as he is God . Secondarilie for the right of redemption , by the which hauing deliuered vs from the tirannie of Sathan , sinne , and death , he hath redeemed vs , to the ende that he might possesse vs as truelie his owne , & subiect to him . Here therefore we first confesse that wee are not our owne , nor in our owne power , although we are set free from the tiranny of Satan : but we are his , he hath set vs free , & hath bought vs with his precious bloud . Secondarilie we confesse that we owe to him all obedience , and homage , as to our soueraigne Lord & maister .

Which was conceaued of the holy Ghost .

Math . 1.20 . For that which is conceaued in her , is of the holy Ghost .

Luk 1.35 . The holy Ghost shall come vpon thee , & the power of the most high shall ouershadow thee .

The holy scripture doth attribute to the holy Ghost the conception of our Lord , for to put a difference betwene the common conception of other men and his . Now this difference doth consist in two pointes : the one is that although he tooke his bodie of the proper natural flesh & of the proper nature of the virgin Marie , notwithstanding it was not by the ordinarie meane , and common course of nature , that is to say by the operation & seede of man : but by an extraordinarie meane , to wit by the vertue of the holy Ghost . The second point is , that he was conceiued without sinne , without spot or vncleannes : and the conception of all other men is corrupted , spotted , and vncleane . And with such a difference ought the sonne of God to haue bene conceaued , to wit , with all purenes and holynes , sith that he was the seede of the woman , and of Abraham , which should breake the heade of the old serpent , and in the which al the nations of the earth should be blessed , & by his bloud all our vncleannes & iniquitie should be wiped out , and aboue all , our conception shoulde be sanctified & made cleane .

Borne of the virgine Marie .

Esai . 7.14 . Behold a virgine shall conceaue and beare a sonne , & she shal call his name Emanuel .

Mat . 1.13 . Beholde a virgine shall be with childe , and shall beare a sonne , and shee shall call his name Emanuel , which is by interpretation , God with vs.

Luk . 1.31 . For lo , thou shalt conceaue in thy wombe , and beare a sonne , and shalt call his name Iesus .

Gal. 4.4 . But when the fulnes of time was come God sent forth his sonne made of a woman , and made vnder the l●w . 5. That he might redeeme them which were vnder the law .

Iesus Christ was borne of a woman for to shew that he was the true seede of the woman , and of Abraham , and of Dauid , that is to say very man formed and framed of the substance of the mother , of whom he was borne : flesh of our flesh , and bone of our bone : which was needefull that it was so , for that it should be offered for our sinneful flesh . And it must haue ben that his mother , was a virgine , for to shew and declare , that , that which was done heare , was not of mans inuention : but a chiefe and principall worke of God . To the ende that on euerie side one might not see in him but purenes and holynes .

Suffred vnder Pontius Pilate .

Esai . 53.4 . Matth . 8.17 . 1. Pet . 2.24 . Surely he hath borne our infirmities , and caried our sorowes .

Iohn . 19.15 . Matth . 27 35. Mark . 15.24 . Luk . 23.33 . Pilate saide vnto them , shall I crucifie your king ? the high priestes aunswered , we haue no king but Cesar . 16. Then deliuered he him vnto them , to be crucified , and they tooke Iesus and led him away . 17. And he bare his crosse , and came into a place named of dead mens skulles , which is called in Hebrew , Golgotha .

Luk . 24.46 . Thus it is written , thus it behoued Christ to suffer , &c.

Act. 4.27 . Psal . 21. For doubtles , against thine holy sonne Iesus , whom thou haddest annointed , both Herod and Pontius Pilate , with the Gentiles and the people of Israell gathered themselues togeather .

Act. 2.23 . Him . I say , haue ye taken by the handes of the wicked , being deliuered by the determinate counsell , and foreknowledge of God , and haue crucified and slaine .

Rom. 5.6 . For Christ when we were yet of no strength , at his time , died for the vngodly .

1. Cor . 15.3 . For first of all I deliuered vnto you that which I receiued , how that Christ died for our sinnes , according to the scriptures .

2. Cor . 5.15 . And he died for all , that they which liue shoulde not henceforth live vnto them selues , but vnto him which died for them , and rose againe .

Philip . 2.2 . Fulfill my ioy , that ye be like minded , hauing the same loue , being of one accorde , and of one iudgement . 5. Let the same minde be in you that was euen in Christ Iesus . 6. Who being in the forme of God , thought it no robberie to be equall , with God . 7. But he made himselfe of no reputation , and tooke on him the forme of a seruaunt , and was made like vnto men , and was founde in shape at a man . 8. He humbled him selfe & became obedient vnto the death , euen the death of the crosse .

1. Timoth . 6.13 . I charge thee in the sight of God , which quickeneth all thinges , and before Iesus Christ which vnder Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession . 14. That thou keepe this commaundement .

1 , Pet . 2.19 . For this is thanke worthy , if a man for conscience toward God endure griefe suffring wrongefully . 20. For what praise is it , if when ye be buffeted for your faultes , ye take it patiently ? But and if when ye do well , ye suffer wrong and take it patiently , this is acceptable to God . 21. For hereunto ye are called : for Christ also suffred for vs , leauing vs an example that ye should follow his steppes . 22. Who did not sinne neither was there guile founde in his mouth : 23. Who when he was reuiled , reuiled not againe : when he suffred , he threatned not , but committed it to him , that iudgeth righteously .

1. Peter . 3.18 . For Christ also hath once suffred for sinnes , the iust for the vniust , that he might bring vs to God , and was put to death concerning the flesh , but was quickned in the spirite .

That which toucheth vs most , of all that Iesus Christ did for vs on earth , and being conuersant among men , it is his death and passion : for by it we are reconciled with God , deliuered from the tyrrannie of the deuill , restituted and set againe in libertie of Spirite . So was the reconciliation made , that as God was angred and displeased with vs for the fault and transgression of our father Adam , and that he being iust can not leaue any sinne vnpunished and that we , so farre were from satisfying of his wrath , that we rather augment it because of our corruption and deprauation which is in vs , and by our continuall and ordinarie iniquities and inormities . The sonne of God is come pure , and innocent , that our sinnes and offenses might be laide vpon him , that he might suffer once for vs , and that by that meanes he might pay the ransome , & might make vs cleane , and that through him we might be absolued of our fault and offence of our paine and punishment and be reconciled to God , hauing obtained full remission for our sinnes .

Buried .

Matth . 12.40 . For as Ionas was in the belly of the whale three dayes and three nightes , so shall the sonne of man be in the heart of the earth three dayes and three nightes .

Act. 13.29 . And when they had fulfilled all thinges that were written of him , they tooke him downe from the tree , and put him in a sepulcher .

1. Cor . 15.4 . And that he was buried , &c.

Mention is made of his buriall for the greater confirmation of his death , and to signifie that the misterie of our redemption was accomplished , the wrath and anger of God appeased , and peace made betwene him and vs. For our redemption dependeth wholy of his death : that if one did but once doubt of his death , the whole redemption shoulde bring in suspence . To take awaye therefore all doubte , he would be buried .

He descended into hell .

Esaias . 53.10 . Yet the Lord would breake him , and make him subiect to infirmities : when he shall make his soule an offring for sinne : and 12. Therefore will I giue him a portion with the great , and he shall deuide the spoile with the strong , because he hath powred out his soule vnto death .

Matth 26.38 . Then saide Iesus vnto them , My soule is very heauie , euen vnto the death : tarie ye here and watch with me .

Luk . 22.44 . But being in an agonie , he prayed more earnestly : and his sweat was like droppes of bloud , trickling downe to the grounde .

Ihon . 12.27 . Now is my soule troubled , and what shall I say , father , saue me from this howre : but therefore came I into this howre .

I. Pet . 3.19 . By the which he also went and preached vnto the spirites that were in prison .

I. Pet . 4.6 For vnto this purpose was he preached vnto the deade , that they might be condemned , according to men in the flesh , but might liue according to God in the spirite .

This is expounded after two sortes . Some vnderstande by this descending into hell , a true feeling of the paynes of death , and an horrour and feare of the terrible wrath and seuere iudgement of God . Iesus Christ therefore hath felt and experimented the great distresse of death and together the paynes of hell , that is to say the wrath and curse of God : the which feeling hath penetrated vnto the verie depth of his heart , and vnto his soule , and bred vnto him extreeme tormentes and troubles , with an vncustomable feare . Which was necessarie , for otherwise he could not throughly satisfie for vs. Others vnderstande that by this is signified that the vertue and force of the death and passion of Iesus Christ is come euen vnto the dead , which by the deuine vertue haue felt the fruite of the redemption made in in his bloud . According to the first exposition , we confesse that Iesus Christ hath throughly satisfied for vs , and hath left nothing which was necessarie for to appease the wrath and anger of God , to satisfie his iustice and to giue full remission of sinnes . According vnto the second we confesse that not onely we which come after the death of Iesus Christ , do feele , the force and efficacie but also they which departed before , and dyed in the faith in the Messias promised , haue bene saued by the vertue of his bloud which was shed .

The third day he rose againe from death .

Math . 20.18 . Behold , we go vp to Ierusalem , and the Sonne of man shall be deliuered vnto the chiefe Priestes , and vnto the scribes , and they shall condemne him to death . 19. But the third day he shall rise againe .

Mat . 28.6 . He is not here , for he is risen , as he said : come see the place where the Lord was laide .

Act. 2.24 . Whō God hath raised vp , and lowsed the sorowes of death , because it was impossible that he should be holden of it . 31. He knowing this before , spake of the resurrection of Christ , that his soule , that is , his person , should not be left in graue , neither his flesh should see corruption .

Act. 10.40 . Him God raised vp the third day , and caused that he was shewed openlie .

Act. 13.30 . But God raised him vp from the dead .

Act. 13.32 . And we declared vnto you , that touchinge the promise made vnto the fathers . 33. God hath fulfilled it vnto vs their children , in that he raised vp Iesus , euen as it is written in the second Psalme . Thou art my sonne : this day haue I begotten thee . 34. Now as concerninge that he raised him vp from the dead , no more to returne to the graue , he hath said thus , I will giue you the holy thinges of Dauid , which are faithfull .

Rom. 1.4 . And declared mightelie to be the sonne of God , touchinge the spirit of sanctification by the resurrection from the dead .

Rom. 4.25 . Who was deliuered to death for our sinnes , and is risen againe for our iustification .

Rom. 6.4 . That like as Christ was raised vp from the dead by the glorie of the father , so we also should walke in newnesse of life .

1. Cor . 15.14 . And if Christ be not risen , then is our preaching vaine , and your faith is also vaine . 17. Ye are yet in your sinnes . 18. And so they which are a sleepe in Christ , are perished .

2. Cor . 13.4 . For though he was crucified concerning his infirmitie , yet liueth he through the power of God .

Coll . 2.18 . 1. Cor . 15.20 . Rom. 8.17 . He is the beginning , and the first borne of the dead , that in all thinges he might haue the preheminence .

1. Pet . 1.3 . Blessed be God , euen the father of our Lord Iesus Christ , which according to his aboundant mercy hath begotten vs againe vnto a liuely hope by the resurrection of Iesus Christ from the dead . 4. To an inheritaunce immortall and vndefiled , and that fadeth not away , reserued in heauen for you . &c. 21. God raised him vp from the dead , and gaue him glorie , that your faith & hope might be in God .

Of the resurrection of our Lord , mention is made amonge the principall pointes , whereon our faith is grounded , for as much as in it his glorie was made manifest , and his maiestie , and he thereby was declared to be the true sonne of God . All his life longe he was conuersant in great humility , and basenesse , shewinge the infirmitie , wherewith he was enuironed for a time as that he was borne in a stable , that in all his life he was as an artificer , or mechanicall person , and aboue all that in fine , he was hated and abhorred of all , enemie to ech one , defigured with buffets & spittinges , crowned with thornes , hanged betwene two theeues , as though he had byn the most detestable that euer was , or was known . by the which meanes he became an offense to men , euen vnto his owne disciples . But behold the resurrection , which is a certaine testimonie of his force and vertue , and here with all a sure hope , yea , the verie pledge and gage of our life and resurrection , inasmuch as it is the triumphe of the victorie which he had ouer death , whereby he spoiled him selfe of all infirmity , and shewed himselfe to be the true Sonne of God , and maister both of life and death . So that his present maiestie ought rather to make vs hope , then his past infirmitye to make vs colde . Moreouer he is not risen againe onely for the assurance of our life , health and saluation : but also to the end that his resurrection might be the fountaine and roote of our life and health . For although that eternallie he hath bene ordayned , constituted and appointed to be the life & health of his brethren , and that by his death , he had merited this right , yet so it is , that by his resurrection he entred into full possession , hath or enioieth it throughlie , being receaued accordinge to his humanitie , into glorie , in the which he was before the creation of the world , according to his diuinitie .

He ascended into heauen .

Luk . 24.51 . And it came to passe that as he blessed them , he departed from them , and was caried vp into heauen .

Actes . 1.9 . And when he had spoken these thinges , while they beheld , he was taken vp : for a cloud tooke him vp out of their sight . 10. And while they looked stedfastly toward heauen , as he went behold , two men stood by them in white apparell . 11. Which also said , ye men of Galile , why stand ye gazing into heauen ? this Iesus which is taken vp from you into heauen , shall so come , as ye haue seene him go into heauen .

Act. 3.21 . Whom the heauen must containe vntill the time , that all thinges be restored , which God hath spoken by the mouth of his holie Prophetes since the world began .

Eph. 4 8. Wherefore he saith , when he ascended vp on high , he led captiuitie captiue , and gaue giftes vnto men . 9 Now in that he ascended , what is it but that he had also descended first into the lowest partes of the earth ? 10. He that descended , is euen the same that ascended , farre aboue all heauens , that he might fill all thinges .

Phil . 2.9 . WVherefore God hath also highly exalted him , and giuen him a name aboue euery name . 10. That at the name of Iesus euerie knee should bowe , both of thinges in heauen , and thinges in earth . 11. And that euerie tongue should confesse , that Iesus Christ is the Lord , vnto the glorie of God the father .

Hebr . 4.14 . Seing then that we haue a great high Priest , which is entred into heauen , euen Iesus the Sonne of God , let vs hold fast our profession .

Hebr . 7.26 . For such an high Priest it became vs to haue , which is holie , harmelesse , vndefiled , separate from sinners , and made higher then the heauens .

Hebr . 9.24 . For Christ is not entred into the holy places made with handes , which are similitudes of the true Sanctuarie : but is entred into very heauen , to appeare now in the sight of God for vs.

Iesus Christ , vntill the day of his ascention , was conuersaunt in the world , through his corporall presence , but afterward he was quite taken awaye , so that we must not search any more , or looke for him , before the iudgement day . For God hath there appointed him his abiding , vntill he shall come to iudge the quicke and the dead . And so it became it to be done , to the ende to withdrawe vs from all opinion & carnall confidence , that we might haue in him . For otherwise they had tyed his vertue and power to his corporall presence . But we must seeke Iesus Christ in heauen not in earth , spirituallie not carnallie , by faith not by our senses , and it is by the onely vertue of his spirit , that he doeth communicate & partake him selfe vnto vs , & not otherwise . More ouer by this his entry into heauen , he hath made plaine vnto vs the way , and doeth assure vs that the gate is alreadie open vnto vs : the which was shut and made vnaccessable by the sinne of man . But now Iesus Christ hauing penetrated the heauens with our flesh , the which he caried with him , as a gage or pledge , is there as our proctour & pleader , holding the place and possession for vs.

And sitteth that the right hand of God the father .

Psal . 110.1 . Act. 2.34 . The Lord saide vnto my Lord , sit thou at my right hand vntill I make thine enemies thy footestoole .

Mar. 16.19 . So after the Lord had spoken vnto them , he was receaued into heauen , and sate at the right hand of God .

Actes . 7.55 . But he being full of the holy Ghost , looked stedfastlie into heauen , and saw the glorie of God , and Iesus standinge at the right hand of God .

Rom. 8.34 . Who shall condemne ? It is Christ which is dead , yea , or rather which is risen againe , who is also at the right hand of God , and maketh request also for vs.

Ephe . 1.19 . And what is the exceeding greatnesse of his power towards vs , which beleeue according vnto the working of his mightie power . 20. Which he wrought in Christ , when he raised him vp from the dead , and set him at his right hand in the heauenlie places .

21. Farre aboue all principalitie and power , and might , and domination , and euerie name that is named , not not in this world onely , but also in that which is to come .

Col. 3.1 . If thē ye be risen with Christ , seeke those things that are aboue , where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God .

Hebr . 8.1 . We haue such an high Priest , that sitteth at the right hand of the throne of the maiestie in heauens .

Hebr . 10.12 . But this man after he had offred one sacrifice for sinnes , sitteth for euer at the right hand of God . 13. And from hence foorth tarieth , till his enemies be made his footestoole .

Hebr . 12.2 . And is set at the right hand of the throne of God .

Iesus Christ sitteth at the right hand of God , as king ( that is to say , that he hath obtained the Empire euerlasting , to the which all things both those which are aboue in heauen , and those thinges which are here below on earth , are subiect vnto him ) as head of his Church , the which he maintaineth and conducteth by the vertue and force of his spirit ) and as our aduocate and intercessour , reconcilinge to vs the father , and turning from vs his terrible face , giuing vs free accesse vnto him , and obtaining for vs grace and fauoure .

And from thence he shall come to iudge the quicke and the dead .

Mat . 16.27 . For the Sonne of man shal come in the glory of his father with his Angelles , and then shall be giuen to euery man accordinge to his deedes .

Mat . 25.31 . And when the sonne of man commeth in his glorie , and all the holy Angelles with him , then shall he sitte vpon the throne of his glorie . 32. And before him shall be gathered all nations , and he shall separate them one from another , as a sheepeheard separateth the sheepe from the goates . 33. And he shall set the sheepe on his right hand & the goates on the left . 34. Then shall the King say to them on his right hand , Come ye blessed of my father , inherit ye the kingedome prepared for you from the foundations of the world . 41. Then shall he say to them on his left hand , depart from me ye cursed , into euerlasting fire , which is prepared for the deuill and his Angelles .

Iohn . 5.22 . For the Father iudgeth no man , but hath committed all iudgementes vnto the Sonne . 23. Because that all men should honour the Sonne , as they honour the father : he that honoureth not the Sonne , the same also honoureth not the father , which sent him . 27. And giuen him also power to execute iudgement , in that he is the Sonne of man .

Actes . 10.42 . And he commaunded vs , saith Peter , to preach vnto the people , and to testifie , that it is he , that is ordained of God , a iudge of quicke and dead .

Act. 17.31 . Because he hath appointed a day , in the which he will iudge the world in righteousnesse , by that man , whom he hath appointed , whereof he hath giuen an assuraunce to all men , in that he hath raised him vp from the dead .

Rom. 14.10 . For we shall all appeare before the iudgement seate of Christ 11. For it is written , I liue , saith the Lord , and euery knee shall bow to me , and all tongues shall confesse vnto God .

2. Cor . 5.10 . For we must all appeare before the iudgment seate of Christ , that euerie man may receaue the thinges which are done in his body , according to that which he hath done , whether it be good or euill .

Hebr . 9 , 28. So Christ was once offred to take away the sinnes of many , and vnto them that looke for him , shall he appeare the second time without sinne vnto saluation .

we beleeue and confesse that Iesus Christ shall come in the ende of the world visibly , and corporally , in the same bodie , the same flesh , and the same substance , that he departed hence , notwithstandinge with great glory and magnificence , to do the last iudgement . For euen as he was ordained of God his father , to be a mediatour , sauiour , and redeemer , as longe as the world shall last : also he was constituted chiefe iudg in the later end , both of the quicke , and dead . And then shall the elect & chosen be gathered into the heauenly and celestiall kingedome , receauing the crowne of glorie . Then also shall the reprobate receaue the hier of their iniquitie .

I beleeue in the holie Ghost .

Iob . 26 , 13. His spirit hath garnished the heauens .

Ioell . 2.28 . Act. 2.17 . I will poure out my spirit vpon all flesh .

Math . 3.11 . Iesus will baptise you with the holy Ghost and with fire .

Math . 10.20 . For it is not ye that speake , but the spirit of your father which speaketh in you .

Mat . 18.19 . Go therefore and teach all nations , baptizing them in the name of the Father , and the Sonne , and the holy Ghost .

Mar , 3.28 . All sinnes shall be forgiuen vnto the children of men , and blasphemies , wherwith the● blaspheme . 29. But he that blasphemeth against the holy Ghost , shall neuer haue forgiuenesse , but is culpable of eternall damnation .

Luke 24 49. And behold , I will send the promise of my father vpon you : but tarie here in the citie of Ierusalem , vntill ye be endued with power from an high .

Ioh . 3.5 . Except that a man be borne of water and of the spirit , he can not enter into the kingedome of God . 8. The winde bloweth where it listeth , and thou hearest the sound thereof , but canst not tell , whence it commeth , and whither i● goeth : so is euerie man that is borne of the spirit .

Ioh . 14.15 . If thou loue me , keepe my commaundementes . 16. And I will pray the father , and he shall giue you an●ther comforter , that he may abide with you for euer . 17. Euen the spirit of truth , whom the world cannot receiue , because it seeth him not , neither knoweth him ? but ye knowe him , for he dwelleth with you , and shall be in you . 26. But the Comforter which is the holy Ghost , whom the father wil send in my name , he shall teach you all thinges , and bringe all thinges to your remembraunce , which I haue told you .

Iohn 15.26 But when the Comforter shall come , whom I will send vnto you from the father , euen the spirit of truth , which proceedeth of the father , he shall testifie of me . 27. And ye shall witnesse also , because ye haue ben with me from the beginninge .

Iohn . 16.7 For if I go not away , the Comforter will not come vnto you : but if I departe , I will send him vnto you . 8. And when he is come , he will reproue the world of sinne , and of righteousnesse , and of iudgement . 9. Of sinne , because they beleeue not in me . 10. Of righteousnesse , because I go to my father , & ye shall see me no more . 11. Of iudgment , because the Prince of this world is iudged . 13. Howbeit , when he is come , which is the spirit of truth , he will leade you into all truth : for he shall not speake of him selfe , but what so euer he shall heare , shall he speake , and he will shew you the thinges to come .

Act. 1.4 . And when he had gathered them together , he commaunded them , that they should not depart from Ierusalem , but to waite for the promise of the father , which , said he , ye haue heard of me . 5. For Iohn in deed baptized with water , but ye shall be baptized with the holy Ghost within these few dayes .

Rom. 8.9 . If any man hath not the spirit of Christ , the same is not his . 14. For as manie as are led by the spirit of God , they are the sonnes of God . 16. The same spirit beareth witnesse with our spirit , that we are the children of God .

1. Cor . 2.10 . But God hath reuealed them vnto vs by his spirit : for the sp●rit searcheth all thinges , yea , the deepe thinges of God . 11. For what man knoweth the things of a man which is in him ? euen so the thinges of God , knoweth n● man , but the spirit of God . 12. Now we haue receaued , not the spirit of the world , but the spirit which is of God , that we might know the things that are giuen to vs of God .

1. Cor . 12.3 . Wherefore , I declare vnto you , that no man speaking by the spirit of God , calleth Iesus execrable : also no man can say that Iesus is the Lord , but by the holy Ghost .

To call Christ execrable , it is to speake blasphemie against him : and to call him Lord , it is to speake of him with reuerence and honour .

4. Now there are diuersities of gifts , but the same spirit . 11. And all these things worketh euen the selfe same spirit , distributinge to euery man seuerally , as he will . 13. For by one spirit are wee all baptized into one body , whether we be Iewes or Gentiles .

Gal. 4.6 . And because ye are sonnes , God hath sent foorth the spirit of his Sonne into your heartes , which crieth Abba , Father .

In confessinge the person of the holy Ghost we protest that we will put our trust in him , as in the true God : And therein we presuppose that he is the true God : for we can not without sacriledge put our trust but in God alone . He is called holy , for to discerne and seperate him from other spirites , as well good as euill . He differeth from the euill , forasmuch as he is altogeather holy , or rather all holynes it selfe : the other in the contrarie side haue no holynes at all , but all wickednes and vncleannes . He differeth also from the good : for although they be holy , it is not notwithstandinge with the like holynes . They haue it not of themselues but they borow it : but to the holy Ghost it is both naturall and substantiall . He is also called holy because of his effect , wh●ch is to sanctifie vs , that is to say to purifie vs and make vs cleane , to consecrate and dedicate vs to God , separating vs from all sinnefull and wicked custome , from all prophane and common practise , to make vs onely serue God alone .

The holie Catholike church .

Psal . 22.23 . I will declare thy name vnto my breathren : in the middest of the congregation wil I praise thee , saying . 25. My praise shall be of thee in the great congregation . my vowes will I performe before them that feare him .

Psal . 35.18 , So will I giue thee thanks in a great congregation : and will praise thee among much people .

Psal . 68.26 . Praise ye God in the assemblies , and the Lord , ye which are of the fountaine of Israell .

Psal . 107.32 . And let them exalt him in the congregation of the people , and praise him in the assemblies of the elders .

Psal . 149.1 . Sing you vnto the Lord a new song , let his praise be heard in the congregation of Sainctes .

Mich . 4.1 . But in the last dayes it shall come to passe , that the mountaine of the house of the Lord shal be prepared in the top of the mountaines , & it shal be exalted aboue the hilles , & the people shall flow vnto it . 2. Yea , many nations shall come and saie , come and let vs go vp to the mountaine of the Lord , and to the house of God of Iaacob , and he will teach vs his wayes , and we will walke in his pathes : for the law shall go forth of Sion , and the word of the Lord from Ierusalem .

Matth . 16.18 . And I say also vnto thee , that thou art Peter , and vpon this rocke I will build my Chruch : and the gates of hell shall not ouercome it .

Matth . 18.15 . Moreouer if thy brother trespasse against thee , goe and tell him his fault , betweene thee and him alone : if he heare thee , thou hast woone thy brother . 16. But if he heare thee not ; take yet with thee one or two , that by the mouth of two or three witnesses euery worde may be confirmed . 17. And if he will not vouchsaue to heare thee , tell it vnto the Church : And if he refuse to heare the Church also , let him be vnto thee , as a heathen man , and a Publicane .

Ioh . 10.16 . Other sheepe I haue also , which are not of this folde : thē also must I bring , and they shall heare my voice : and there shal be one sheepefolde , and one shephearde .

Iohn 11.51 . He prophesied that Iesus should die for the nation : And not for the nation onely , but that he should gather togeather in one , the children of God , which were scattered .

Rom. 12.4 . For as we haue many members in one bodie , and all members haue not one office . 5. So we being many , are one bodie in Christ , and euerie one , one an others members .

1. Cor . 12.12 . For as the bodie is one , and hath many members , and all the members of the bodie , which is one though they be many , yet are but one body , euen so is Christ .

The name of Christ is here put for the church : and it is a place full of consolation and comforte sith he calleth the church Christ .

13. For by one spirite are we all baptised into one bodie , whether we be Iewes or Grecians , whether we be bond or free , & haue all bene made to drinke into one spirite .

Ephes . 2.19 . Now therefore ye are no more strangers and forenners , but citizens with the Sainctes , & of the household of God . 20. And are built vpon the foundacion of the Apostles and prophets , Iesus Christ him selfe being the chiefe corner stone . 21. In whom all the building coupled togeather groweth vnto an holy temple in the Lord : 22. In whom ye also are built togeather , to be the habitation of God by the spirite .

Ephes . 4.11 . He therefore gaue some to be Apostles , and some Prophets , and some Euangelistes , and some pastours and teachers . 12. For the gathering togeather of the Sainctes , for the worke of the ministerie , and for the edification of the bodie of Christ . 13. Till we all meete togeather ( in the vnitie of faith and knowledge of thee sonne of God ) vnto a perfect man , and vnto the measure of the age of the fulnes of Christ .

Eph. 5.22 . Wiues submit your selues vnto your husbandes , as vnto the Lorde , 23. For the husband is the wiues head , euen as Christ is the head of the Church , and the same is the Sauiour of his body . 24. Therfore as the Church is in subiection to Christ , euen so let the wiues be to their husbandes in euerie thing . 25. Husbandes , loue your wiues , euen as Christ loued the Church , and gaue him selfe for it . 26. That he might sanctifie it , and clense it by the washing of water through the worde . 27. That he might make it vnto him selfe a glorious Church , not hauing spot or wrincle , or any such thing , but that it should be holy and without blame .

Col. 1.12 . Giuing thankes vnto the father , which hath made vs meete to be partakers of the inheritaunce of the Sainctes in light . 13. Who hath deliuered vs from the power of darkenes , and hath translated vs into the kingdome of his deare sonne .

Coll . 3.14 . And aboue all thinges put one loue which is the bond of perfectnes . 15. And let the peace of God rule in your heartes , to the which ye are called in one bodie , and be amiable .

1. Tim . 2.15 . But if I tarrie long , that thou maiest yet knowe , how thou oughtest to behaue thy selfe in the house of God , which is the church of the lyuing God , and the piller and ground of trueth .

Heb . 3.6 . But Christ is as a sonne ouer his owne house , whose house we are , if we hold fast the confidence and reioycing of hope vnto the ende .

Heb . 12.22 . But ye are come vnto the mount Sion , and to the citie of the liuing God , the celestiall Ierusalem , and to the companie of innumerable Angels . 23. And to the congregation of the first borne , which are written in heauen , and to God the iudge of all , and to the spirits of iust and perfect men . 24. And to Iesus the mediatour of the new testament , and to the bloode of sprinckling , that speaketh better thinges then that of Abell .

1. Peter . 2.3 . Yf so be that ye haue tasted how bountifull the Lord is . 4. To whom ye come as vnto a liuing stone disallowed of men , but chosen of God and precious . 5. And ye as liuely stones , be made a spirituall house , & a holy priesthoode to offer vp spirituall sacrifices acceptable to God by Iesus Christ . 9. But ye are a chosen generation , a royall priesthood , an holy nation , a peculiar people , that ye should shew forth the vertue of him , that hath called you , out of darkenes into his meruelous light .

Touching this article which is of the church , we confesse three things : The one is , that there is a church , that is to say , an assembly of Christians , and faithfull beleeuers , which are vnited and ioyned togeather as in one bodie , vnder one head , which is Iesus Christ , and they which doe feele and proue by faith all thinges which we haue confessed God the father , the sonne , & the holy Ghost . That there is but one onely true church , that is to say which is of god : For albeit there are many churches , that is to say assemblies & congregations & companies of people following their superstitions , as of the Iewes of the Turkes , and of the Pagans , and of other heritikes , yet notwithstanding they are not true churches , but conuenticles , factions & Sinagogues of Satan , in the which there is no true vnitie , because they are made without the word of God , without the which there is no true vnitie , foundation , or any true accorde . The thirde , that we are of this societie , being partakers of all those thinges which appertaine to the same . And she is then called holy : and the reason was giuen in the fore alleaged place to the Ephes . 5.26 . Catholike . for asmuch as there is no more distinction of people or nations , Gal 3.28 . and Col. 3.11 .

OF THE TWO SACRAmentall signes of the Church instituted and ordained by Iesus Christ .

Among the Iewes in old time according to the lawe there were many Sacramentes : vnto the imitation of the which the Papistes haue forged and fained vnto the number of seuen . But the church of Iesus Christ acknowledginge and following the voice of her spouse and maister , receaueth but two , the which although they be in a small nomber , notwithstanding they are great and excellent in signification , and mightie in force , vertue , power , and efficacie . And albeit they consist in thinges visible and corruptible , yet for all that , they are accordinge to theire institution and ordinaunce , certaine and sure signes and testimonies of the good will of God toward vs , by the which he doth seale his promises in our consciences , for the confirmation of our faith , with a renewing of our dueties towardes God . The two Sacramentes are , Baptisme , and the Lordes supper .

OF BAPTISME .

Math . 3.11 . In deede I baptise you with water to amendement of life , but he that commeth after me , is mightier then I , whose shoes I am not worthie to beare , he will baptise you with the holy Ghost , and with fire .

Mat . 28.19 . Go therefore and teach all nations , baptizing them in the name of the Father , the Sonne , and the holie Ghost .

Marke . 16.16 . He that shall beleeve and be baptized , shall be saued : but he that will not beleeue , shall be damned .

Rom. 6.3 . Know ye not , that all we which haue bene baptized into Iesus Christ , haue bene baptized into his death ? 4. We are buried then with him by baptisme into his death , that like as Christ was raised vp from the dead , by the glory of the father , so we also should walke in newnesse of life .

Gal. 3.27 . For all ye that are baptised into Christ , haue put on Christ .

Eph. 5.26 . That he might sanctifie it , and clense it by the washing of water , thorough the word . 27. That he might make it vnto him selfe a glorious Church , not hauing spot or wrinkle , or any such thing : but that it should be holy and without blame .

Collos . 2.11 . In whom also ye are circumcised with circumcision made without handes , by putting of the sinnefull bodie of the flesh , through the circumcision of Christ . 12. In that ye are buried with him through baptisme , in whom ye are also raised vp together through the faith of the operation of God , which raised him from the deade .

Tit . 3.5 . Not by the workes of righteousnes , which we had done , but according to his mercie he saued vs , by the washing of the new birth , & the renewing of the holy Ghost .

1. Pet . 3.21 . To the which also the figure which now saueth vs , euen baptisme agreeth ( not the putting away of the filth of the flesh , but that a good conscience maketh request to God ) by the resurrection of Iesus Christ .

Baptisme is celebrated in water , in the name of the Father , and of the Sonne , and of the holie Ghost : by the which we are receaued solemnelie into the alliaunce of God , and society of the Church , for to be reputed the children of God : in the which also we are assured of the remission of our sinnes , with a signification of repentance ( that is to say , the mortification of our olde man , and the renouncinge of our selues ) which God requireth of vs through all our life longe , and we do binde our selues to followe it , as he hath begun it in vs , for to walke in newnesse of life . The water was the rather chosen in this vse , for the agreement and likenesse therin , that is , that euen as by the sprinklinge of the water , our bodies are made cleane from theyr filthinesse and spottes , also God doeth the like in our soules , in the bloud of Iesus Christ , by the vertue of the holie Ghost to witte , that it washeth them from all sinne , and doeth regenerate them in a better life .

OF THE TABLE AND Supper of our Lord .

Marke . 14.22 . Luke . 22.19 . And he tooke bread , and when he had giuen thankes , he brake it , and gaue to them , saying , This is my bodie , which is giuen for you : do this in remembrance of me . 20. Likewise also after supper , he tooke the cup , saying , This cup is the new testamt in my bloud , which is shed for you .

Math . 26.26 . And as they did eate , Iesus tooke the bread , and when he had giuen thankes , he brake it , and gaue it to the disciples , and said , Take , eate : this is my bodie . 27. Also he tooke the cup , and when he had giuen thankes , he gaue it them saying , drinke ye all of it : 28. For this is my bloud of the new testament , that is shed for many , for the remission of sinnes . 29. I say vnto you , that I will not drinke hence foorth of this frute of the vine , vntill that day , when I shall drinke it new with you , in my fathers kingedome . 30. And when they had songe a psalme , they went out into the mount of Oliues .

1. Cor . 10.16 . The cup of blessinge which we blesse , is it not the communion of the bodie of Christ ? 17. For we that are manie , are one bread and one body , because we all are partakers of one bread .

1. Cor . 11.23 . For I haue receaued of the Lord that , which I also haue deliuered vnto you , to wit , that the Lord Iesus in the night that he was betrayed , tooke bread . 24. And when he had giuen thankes , he brake it , and saide , Take , eate , this is my bodie , which is broken for you : this do ye in remembraunce of me . 25. After the same maner also he tooke the cup , when he had supped , saying , this cup is the new testament in my bloud : this do as oft as ye drinke it , in remembrance of me . 26. For as often as ye shall eate this bread , and drinke this cup , ye shew the Lords death till he come . 27. Wherefore , whosoeuer shall eate this bread , and drinke the cup of the Lord vnworthely , shall be guilty of the body & bloud of the Lord . 28. Let a man therefore examine himselfe , and so let him eate of this bread , and drinke of this cup . 29. For he that eateth and drinketh vnworthely , eateth and drinketh his owne damnation , because he discerneth not the Lordes bodie .

The Supper of the Lorde , is set foorth vnto vs in bread and wine , vnder the which , we receiue the verie bodie and bloud of the Lord Iesus : forasmuh as beynge here in earth , we ascend by faith into heauen , euen vnto him , & being members of his bodie , we are made partakers of all his riches . And it is the rather giuen vnto vs vnder these two kindes , then vnder any others , first to signify vnto vs , that euen as these two elementes beinge eaten corporallie , and beinge receaued into the stomake , do nourish our bodies to a naturall life : so likewise the body of Iesus Christ , inasmuch as it was offred vp on the crosse , and his bloud , inasmuch as it was shed , when they are receaued by faith , do nourish our soules to euerlasting life . Secondarilie to admonish and warne vs , of the vnitie and fraternity , that we which eate all of one bread , and drinke all of one cup , should be totogether all , as members of one bodie , vnder the head Iesus Christ . That is to wit , that as in one loafe of bread many graines of wheat are mingled and medled together : and also in the wine many grapes , which can not be discerned one from another , that we likewise also ought to be vnited and knit together thorough charitie and brotherly loue , that there might be no debate , no dissention , no rancour , no malice , no hatred nor parcialitie . The vse of the Sacrament is not to be kept , shut vp in a box or armorie , or to be shewed ouer the shoulders , or to be played withall on a table , or to be caried , or led vppe and downe the streetes : but it must be eaten and dronken , not in a corner secretly , or priuatelie , but in an open assemblie , distributinge it togeather amonge all .

OF EXCOMMVNICATIon , of the keyes , and power of the Church .

Mat . 18.15 . Luke 17.3 . Moreouer , if thy brother trespasse against thee , go and tell him his fault betweene thee & him alone : if he heare thee , thou hast wonne thy brother . 16. But if he heare thee not , take yet with thee one or two , that by the mouth of two or three witnesses , euerie word may be confirmed . 17. And if he wil not vouchsafe to heare thee , tell it to the Church : and if he refuse to heare the Church also , let him be vnto thee as an heathen man , and a Publicane .

1. Cor . 5.3 . For I verely as absent in bodie , but present in spirit , haue determined alreadie as though I were present , that he that hath thus done this thing , 4. When ye are gathered together , and my spirit , in the name of our Lord Iesus Christ , that such one , I say , by the power of our Lord Iesus Christ , 5. Be deliuered vnto Satan , for the destruction of the flesh , that the spirit may be saued in the day of our Lorde Iesus .

11. But now I haue written vnto you , that ye companie not together : If anie that is called a brother , be a fornicator , or couetous , or an Idolater , or a railer , or a drunkard , or an extorcioner , with such one eate not .

2. Cor . 2.6 . It is sufficient vnto the same man , that he was rebuked of many . 7. So that now contrariwise , ye ought rather to forgiue him , and comfort him , lest the same should be swallowed vp with ouermuch heauinesse . 8. Wherefore , I pray you , that you would confirme your loue toward him .

2. Thess. 3.14 . If anie man obey not our sayinges , note him by a letter , and haue no company with him , that he may be ashamed . 15. Yet counte him not as an enemie , but admonish him as a brother .

1. Tim . 1.20 . Of whom is Himeneus , and Alexander , whom I haue deliuered vnto Satan , that they might learne not to blaspheme .

Tit . 3.10 . Reiect him that is an heretike , after once or twise admonition . 11. Knowing that he tha● is such , is peruerted , and sinneth being damned of his owne selfe .

Excommunication , which is a sentence of punishment , lawfullie giuen and pronounced , by those whiche haue this charge of the Church , that is to say , by the assemblie of elders lawfullie ordained , is necessarie to the Church . First because it was instituted and ordayned by our Lord Iesus Christ , and afterwarde continuallie practised , not onelie by the Apostles , and in the time of the faithlesse and vnbeleeuinge Princes : but also a great deale more vnder Christian Princes , throughout the primitiue and auncient Church , without any contradiction or gainesaying . Secondarily , forasmuch as experience doth teach & shew vs , that it is impossible to maintaine & keepe the Church pure without this order established of the Lord , against the vnruly and incorrigible : as also the politike & ciuill estate can not be kept long , if the magistrate punishe not the offendoures .

OF THE ESTATE AND office of the Church , aswell in particuler as in generall .

Rom. 12.3 . For I say , through the grace that is giuen vnto me , to euerie one that is among you , that no man presume to vnderstand aboue that , which is meete to vnderstand , but that he vnderstand according to sobriety , as God hath dealt to euery man the measure of faith . 4. For as we haue many members in one bodie , and all members haue not one office . 5. So we being many , are one bodie in Christ , and euerie one , one anothers members . 6. Seeinge then that we haue giftes that are diuers , accordinge to the grace that is giuen vnto vs , whether we haue prophesie , let vs prophesie accordinge to the proportion of our faith . 7. Or an office , let vs waite on the office : or he that teacheth , on teaching . 8. Or he that exhorteth , on exhortation : he that distributeth , let him doe it with simplicitie : he that ruleth , with diligence : he that sheweth mercie , with cheerfulnesse .

1. Cor . 12.4 . Now there are diuersities of gifts , but the same spirit . 5. And there are diuersities of administrations , but the same Lord . 6. And there are diuersities of operations , but God is the same that worketh all in all . 7. Bu the manifestation of the spirit is giuen to euerie man , to profit withall . 8. For to one is giuen by the spirit the word of wisedome : and to another the word of knowledg , by the same spirit . 9. And to another is giuen faith , by the same spirit , and to another the giftes of healinge by the same spirit . 10. And to another the operation of great workes : & to another prophesy : and to another the discerning of spirits : and to another diuersitie of tongues : & to another the interpretation of tongues . 11. And all these thinges worketh euen the selfe same spirit , distributinge to euerie man as he will .

Ephes . 4.11 . He therefore gaue some to be Apostles , and some Prophets , and some Euangelistes , and some Pastoures and teachers . 12. For the gatheringe together of the Sainctes , for the worke of the ministrie , and for the edification of the bodie of Christ . 13. Till we all meete together in the vnity of faith & knowledge of the Sonne of God , vnto a perfect man , and vnto the measure of the age of the fulnesse of Christ .

1. Pet . 4.10 . Let euerie man as he hath receaued the g●fte , minister the same one to another , as good disposers of the manifold grace of God 11. If any man speake , let him talke as the wordes of God , if any man minister , let him do is , as of the abilitie which God ministreth , that God in all thinges may be glorified through Iesus Christ , to whom is praise and dominion , for euer , and euer . Amen .

God , albeit that by him selfe he could haue guided and gouerned his Church , without vsinge anie externall meane , aswell as he coulde nourish and preserue man without corporall foode , he , notwithstanding herein would vse the ministrie of man . Wherefore he hath ordained certaine offices to which appertaineth all the administration of the Church , whose authoritie and ministry we cannot contemne without the contempte of Gods ordinaunce , and without rebellion against God , by whose ordinaunce , & in whose name they speake . Now they , whom he hath appointed for such a charg , may be deuided principally into fower sorts , to wit , ministers , deacons , elders & magistrats .

OF THE OVERSEER Otherwise called the Bishop or minister of the word .

Mat . 20.25 . Therefore Iesus called them vnto him and said , ye know that the Lordes of the Gentiles haue domination ouer them , & they that are great , exercise authority ouer them . 26. But it shall not be so among you : but whosoeuer will be great among you , let him be your seruaunt . 27. And whosoeuer will be chiefe amonge you , let him be your seruaunt . 28. Euen as the sonne of man came not to be serued , but to serue , and to giue his life for the ransome of many .

1. Cor . 3.5 . Who is Paule then ? or who is Apollos , but the ministers by whom ye beleeued , and as the Lorde gaue to euerie man . 6. I haue planted , Apollos watred , but God gaue the encrease . 8. And he that planteth , and he that watreth , are one , and euerie man shall receaue his wages according to his laboure . 9. For we together , are Gods labourers : ye are Gods husbandrie , and Gods buildinge .

1. Tim . 3.2 . A Bishop therefore must he vnreproueable , the husband of one wife , watchinge , sober , modest , harberous , apt to teach . 3. Not giuen to wine , no striker , not giuen to filthie lucre , but gentle , no fighter , not couetous , 4. One that can rule his owne house honestlie , hauinge children vnder obedience with all honestie . 5. For if any can not rule his owne house , how shall he care f●r the Church of God ? 6. He may not be a yonge scholer , lest he being pussed vp fall into the condemnation of the deuill . 7. He must also be well reported of , euen of them which are without , lest he fall into rebuke , and the snare of the deuill .

1. Timot . 5.17 . The elders that rule well , are worthie of double honour , specially they which labour in the word & doctrine . 18. For the Scripture saith , Thou shalt not mussell the mouth of the oxe that treadeth out the corne : and , The labourer is worthie of his wages . 19. Against an elder receaue no accusation , but vnder two or three witnesses . 22. Lay handes sodainelie on no man , neither be partaker of other mennes sinnes , keepe thy selfe pure .

2 , Tim . 2.24 . But the seruaunt of the Lord must not striue , but must be gentle toward all men , apt to teach , suffringe the euill men patiently . 25. Instructing them with meekenesse that are contrarie minded , prouinge if God at anie time will giue them repentaunce , that they may knowe the truth . 26. And that they may come to amendment out of the snare of the deuill , which are taken of him at his will .

2. Tim . 4.2 Preach the word : be instant , in season , and cut of season , improue , rebuke , exhort , with all suffringe , and doctrine ,

Titus 1.5 . For this cause left I thee in Creta , that thou shouldest continue to redresse the thinges that remaine , & shouldest ordaine Elders in euery citie , as I appointed thee . 6. If any be vnreproueable , the husband of one wife , hauing faithfull children , which are not slaundered of riot , nether are disobedient . 7. For a Bishop must be vnreproueable , as Gods steward , not froward , not angrie , not giuen to wine , no striker , not giuen to filthie lucre . 8. But harberous , one that loueth goodnesse , wise , righteous , holy , temperate . 9. Holdinge fast the faithfull word , accordinge to d●ctrine , that he also may be able to exhort with wholesome doctrine , and improue them that say against it .

1. Pet . 5.2 . Feede the flocke of God , which dependeth vpon you , caringe for it , not by constraint , but willingly , not for filthie lucre , but of a readie minde 3. Not as though ye were Lordes ouer Gods heritage , but that ye may be exsamples to the flocke . 4. And when the chiefe sheepeheard shall appeare , ye shall receaue an incorruptible crowne of glorie .

OF THE DEACON OR Prouider of the Church .

Act. 61. And in those dayes , as the number of the disciples grew , there arose a murmuringe of the Grecians towardes the Hebrewes , because theyr widowes were neglected in the daylie ministring 2. Then the twelue called the multitude of the disciples together , and said , it is not meete that we should leaue the word of God to serue the tables . 3. Wherefore brethren , looke ye out amonge you seuen men of honest reporte , and full of the holy Ghost , and of wisedome , which we may appoint to this businesse . 4. And we will giue our selues continually to prayer , and to the mistration of the word . 5. And the sayinge pleased the whole multitude , and they chose euen a man full of faith and of the holy Ghost . &c.

1. Tim . 3.8 . Likewise must Deacons be honest , not double tongued , not giuen vnto much wine , neither to filthy lucre . Hauinge the ministrie of faith in a pure conscience . 10. And let them first be proued : then let them minister , if they be found blamelesse . 11. Likewise theyr wiues must be honest , not euill speakers , but sober , and faithfull in all thinges . 12. Let the Deacons be the husbands of one wife , & such as can rule their children well , and their owne houshouldes . 13. For they that haue ministred well , get them selues a good degree , and libertie in the faith , which is great in Christ Iesus .

THE OFFICE OF ELders in the church .

Numb . 11.16 . Then the Lord saide vnto Moises , gather togeather vnto me seuentie men of the Elders of Israell , whom thou knowest , that they are the elders of the people , and gouernours ouer them , and bring them into the Tabernacle of the congregation , and let them stand there with thee . 17. And I will come downe and talke with thee , and take of the spirite , which is vpon thee , and put vpon them , and they shall beare the burden of the people with thee : so thou shalt not beare it alone .

Rom. 12.8 . He that ruleth let him do it with diligence .

1. Cor . 12.28 . And God hath ordayned some in the Church . &c.

1. Timoth . 5.17 . The elders that rule well , are worthie of double honour , specially they which labour in the word & doctrine

The Ministers are those which are occupied in the doctrine to teach , to reproue , to comfort , and to exhort as well publickely as priuatly , to whom also it appertaineth to say the common prayers . The deacons are they which the church appointeth to distribute almes of the churches goodes , and to haue a care for the poore , and to attend the sicke . The elders are they which being ioyned to the ministers by the common consent of the whole church do watch ouer the manners of men , for the conseruation of the discipline , and for the correction of vices , which do make the Senate or Consistorie of the Church .

OF PRINCIPALITIE and of the Magistrate .

Exod . 18.21 . Moreouer prouide among all the people men of courage , fearing God , dealing truely , hating couetousnes : and appoint such ouer them to be rulers ouer thousands , rulers ouer hundrethes , rulers ouer fifties , and rulers ouer ten . 22. And let them iudge the people at all seasons : but euerie great matter let them bring vnto thee , & let them iudg all small causes : so shall it be easier for thee , when they shal beare the burden with the 23. If thou doe this thing , ( & God so commaund thee ) both thou shalt be able to endure , and all this people shall also goe quietly to their place .

Exod . 22.28 . Thou shalt not rayle vpon the iudges , neither speake euill of the rulers of thy people .

Deutr . 1.15 . So I tooke the chiefe of the tribes , wise and knowen men , and made them rulers ouer you , captaines ouer thousandes , and captaines ouer hundredes , and captaines ouer fiftie , and captaines ouer ten , and officers among your tribes . 26. And I charged your iudges that same time , saying , Heare the controuersies betweene your breathren , and iudge righteously betweene euerie man , and his brother , and the straunger that is with him . 17. Ye shall haue no respect of person in iudgment , but shall heare the small as well as the great : ye shall not feare the face of man : for the iudgement is Gods , and the cause that is to hard for you , bring vnto me , and I will heare it .

Deut . 16.18 . Iudges and officers shalt thou make thee in all thy cities , which the Lord thy God giueth thee , throughout thy tribes : and they shall iudge the people with righteous iudgement . 19. Wrest not thou the law , nor respect any person , neither take reward : for the reward blindeth the eyes of the wise , and peruerteth the wordes of the iust . 20 That which is iust and right shalt thou follow , that thou maist liue , and possesse the land which the Lorde thy God giueth thee .

Deut . 17.14 . When thou shalt come into the land which the Lord thy God giueth thee , and shalt possesse it and dwell therein , if thou say , I will set a king ouer me , like as all the nations that are about me . 15. Then thou shalt make him king ouer thee , whom the Lord thy God shall chose : from among thy breathren shalt thou make a king ouer thee : thou shalt not set a straunger ouer thee , which is not thy brother . 16. In any wise he shall not prepare him many horses , nor bring againe the people to Egypt , for to encrease the number of horses , seeing the Lord hath saide vnto you ye shall not henceforth goe no more that way . 17. Neither shall he take him many wiues , lest his heart turne away : neither shall he gather him much siluer and gold . 18. And when he shall sit vpon the throne of his kingdome then shall he write him this law repeted in a booke , by the Priests of the Leuites 19. And it shal be with him , and he shall reade therein all dayes of his life , that he may learne to feare the Lorde his God , and to keepe all the wordes of this law , and these ordinaunces , for to doe them : 20. That his hearte be lifted vp aboue his breathren , and that he turne not from the commaundement , to the right hande or to the left , but that he may prolonge his dayes in his kingedome , he & his sonnes in the middes of Israell .

Deut . 16.11 . But if a man hate his neighbour , and lay waite for him , and rise against him , and smite any man that he die , and flie vnto any of these cities 12. Then the elders of his citie shall send and set him thence , and deliuer him into the handes of the auenger of the bloud , that he may die . 13. Thine eye shall not spare him , but thou shalt put away the crie of innocent bloode from Israell , that it may goe well with thee .

2. Chron . 19.5 . And he set Iudges in the land throughout all the strong cities of Iudah citie by citie . 6. And said to the Iudges : Take heed what ye do : for ye execute not the iudgements of man but of the Lord , and he wil be with you in the cause and iudgement . 7. Wherfore now let the feare of the Lord be vpon you : take it and doe it : for there is no iniquitie with the Lord our God , neither respect of person , nor receiuing of reward .

Psalm . 2.10 . Be wise nowe therefore , ye kinges : be learned ye iudges of the earth . 11. Serue the Lorde in feare and reioyce in trembling . 12. Kisse the sonne , lest he be angrie , and perish in the waye when his wrath shall sudenly burne . Blessed are all that trust in him .

Prouerb . 20.2 . The feare of the king is like the roaring of a Lion : he that prouoketh him vnto anger , sinneth against his owne soule .

Esai 49.23 . And kinges shal be thy noureing fathers , and Queenes shal be thy nources , they shall worship thee with their faces toward the earth , and li●ke vp the dust of thy feete : and thou shalt know that I am the Lord , for they shall not be ashamed that waite for me .

Matth . 22.21 . Giue vnto Cesar the thinges that are Cesars , and vnto God , the thinges which are Godes .

Iohn . 10 34. Psal . 81.6 . Is it not written in your law , I said , ye are Gods ? 35. Yf ye called them Gods , vnto whom the word of God was giuen , &c.

Rom. 13.1 . Let euery soule be subiect vnto the higher powers : for there is no power but of God : & the powers that be are ordained of God 2. Whosoeuer resisteth the power , resisteth the ordinaunce of God : & they that resist , shall receiue to them selues iudgement . 3. For Princes are not to be feared for good workes , but for euill , wilt thou then be without feare of the power ? do well : so shalt thou haue praise of the same . 4. For he is the minister of God for thy wealth , but if thou doe euill , feare : for he beareth not the sworde for nought : for he is the minister of God to take vengeance on him that doth euill . 5 Wherefore ye must be subiect , not because of wrath onely , but also for conscience sake . 6. For , for this cause ye paye also tribute , for they are Gods ministers , applying them selues for the same thing . 7. Giue to all men therefore their dutie : tribute , to whom ye owe tribute : custome , to whom custome : feare to whom feare : honour , vnto whom ye owe honour -

1. Timoth . 2.1 . I exhort therefore , that first supplications , prayers , intercessions , and giuing of thankes , be made for all men , 2. For kinges for all that are in authority , that we may leade a quiet and a peaceable life , in all godlines and honestie . 3. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Sauiour , 4. Who will that all men shal be saued , and come vnto the knowledge of the truth .

He speaketh of all estates , and not of euerie seuerall person .

Tit . 3.1 . Put them in remembraunce that they be subiect to the principalities and powers , and that they be obedient and readie to euerie good worke .

1. Peter . 2.13 . Submit your selues vnto all manner ordinaunces of man for the Lordes sake , whether it be vnto the king , as vnto the superiour , 14. or vnto gouernours , as vnto them which are sent of him , for the punishment of euill doers , & for the praise of them that doe well .

The Magistrate , that is to say the superioritie and ciuill gouernement , whether it be of one man or of many , is by Gods ordinaunce , and hath place in the Church , as the other three orders going before , yea and that hauing authoritie aboue them , he beareth the sworde for the defence of the good and innocent , and for the correction of the wicked and dissolute . To whom we owe honour and obedience in all things which are not against God : and we must paye vnto them rentes , customes , reuenewes , taxes , impositions , tenthes , tythes , and other like tributes .

OF ELDERS IN YEARES as well men as women .

Titus . 2.2 . That the elder men be sober , honest , discrete , sound in the faith , in loue and in patience . 3. The elder women likewise , that be in such behauiour as becommeth holines , not false accusers , not giuen to much wine , but teachers of honest thinges . 4. That ye may instruct the yonger women to be sober minded , that they loue their husbandes , that they loue their children , 5 That they be discrete , chaste , keepeping at home , good and subiect vnto their husbands , that the word of God be not euill spoken of .

OF THE YONGERS

Tit . 2.6 . Exhort yong men likewise that they be sober minded . 7. Aboue all thinges shewe thy selfe an example of good workes with incorrupt doctrine , with grauetie , integritie .

OF MARIED FOLKE in generall .

Matth . 5.31 . It hath bene saide also , Whosoeuer shall put away his wife , let him giue her a testimoniall of diuorcement . 32. But I say vnto you , whosoeuer shall put away his wife ( except it be for fornication ) causeth her to commit adulterie , and whosoeuer shall marrie her that is diuorced , committeth adulterie .

Math . 19.4 . Haue ye not reade , that he which made them at the beginning made them male & femall . 5. And saide for this cause shall a man leaue father and mother , and cleaue vnto his wife , and they twaine shal be one fleshe ? 6. Wherefore they are no more twaine but one flesh , let not a man therefore put a sunder that , which God hath coupled togeather . 7. They said to him , why did then Moises commaund to giue a bill of diuorcement , and to put her away ? He saide vnto them , Moises , because of the hardnes of your heartes , suffred you to put away your wiues : but from the beginning it was not so . 9. I say therefore vnto you , that whosoeuer shall put away his wife , except it be for whoredom , and mary an other , committeth adulterie : and whosoeuer marieth her which is deuorced , doth commit adulterie .

1. Cor . 7.3 . Let the husband giue vnto the wife due beneuolence , and likewise also the wife vnto the husband . 4. The wife hath not the power of her owne bodie , but the husband : and likewise also the husband hath not the power of his owne bodie , but the wife . 5. Defraud not one an other , except it be with consent for a time , that ye may giue your selues to fasting and prayer , and againe come togeather that Satan tempt you not for your incontinencie . 6. But I speake this by permission , not by commaundement . 7. For I would that all men were euen as I my selfe am : but euerie man hath his proper gift of God , one after this maner , and other after that .

That which followeth in the same chapter dependeth of that which goeth before : and is a consequent which he draweth thence applying his talke to virgins , and to those which are not maried , and doth wel agree with them herein , that it is a thing to be wished and desired to liue without marying , if it coulde benotwithstanding that euerie one ought to consider what power is giuen vnto him .

OF MARIED MEN

Ephes . 5.25 . Husbandes , loue your wiues , euen as Christ loued the Church , and gaue himselfe for it . 26. That he may sanctifie it , and clense it by the washing of water through the word . 27. That he might make it vnto him selfe a glorious Church , not hauing spot or wrinkle , or any such thing : but that it should be holy and without blame . 28. So ought men to loue their wiues , as their owne bodies : he that loueth his wife , loueth himselfe . 29. For no man euer yet hated his owne flesh , but nourrisheth and cherisheth it euen as the Lord doeth the Church . 30. For we are members of his bodie , of his flesh , and of his bones . 31. For this cause shall a man leaue father and mother , and shall cleaue to his wife , and they two shall be one flesh .

Colloss . 3.19 . Husbandes loue your wiues , and be not bitter vnto them .

1. Pet . 3.7 . Likewise ye husbandes , dwell with them as men of knowledge , giuing honour vnto the woman , as vnto the weaker vessell , euen as they which are heires together of the grace of life , that your prayers be not interrupted .

OF WIVES .

Gene . 3.16 . And thy desire shall be subiect to thine husband , and he shall rule ouer thee .

As if he would say , Thou must not couet any thing but that which thy husband will .

1. Cor . 14.34 . Let y●ur women keepe silence in the Church , for it is not permitted vnto them to speake : but they ought to be subiect , as also the Lawe saith . 35. And if they will learne anie thing , let them aske their husbandes at home : for it is a shame for women to speake in the Church .

Eph. 5.22 . Wiues , submit your selues vnto your husbandes , as vnto the Lord . 23. For the husband is the wiues head , euen as Christ is the head of the Church , & the same is the sauiour of the bodie . 24. Therfore as the Church is in subiection vnto Christ , euen so , let the wiues be to their husbands in euery thing .

Colloss . 3.18 . Wiues , submit your selues vnto your husbandes , as it is comely in the Lord .

1. Tim . 2.9 . Likewise also the women , that they aray them selues in comelie apparell , with shamefastnesse and modestie , not with broided heare , or gold , or pearles , or costlie apparell . 10. But ( as becometh women that professe the feare of God ) with good workes . 11. Let the woman learne in s●ilence with all subiection . 12 I permit not a woman to teach , neither to vsurpe authoritie ouer the man , but to be in scilence . 13 For Adam was first fourmed , then Eue . 14. And Adam was not deceaued , but the woman was deceaued , and was in the transgression . 15. Notwithstandinge , through bearinge of children she shall be saued , if they continue in faith , and loue , and holinesse , with modestie .

1. Pet . 3.1 . Likewise let the wiues be subiect to their husbandes , that euen they which obey not the word , may without the word be wonne , by the conuersation of the wiues . 2. While they behold your pure conuersation , which is with feare . 3. Whose apparelling , let it not be outward , as with broided heare , and golde put about , or in puttinge on of apparell . 4. But let the hid man of the heart be vncorrupt , with a meeke and quiet spirit , which is before God a thing much set by . 5. For euen after this manner in time past did ▪ the holie women , which trusted in God , attier themselues , and were subiect to their husbandes . 6. And Sara obeyed Abraham , and called him Sir . whose daughters ye are , whiles ye do well , not being afraid of any terrour .

OF MINISTERS AND Deacons wiues .

1. Tim . 3.11 . Likewise their wiues must be honest , not euill speakers , but sober and faithfull in all thinges . 12. Let the Deacons be husbandes of one wife , and such as can rule their children well , and their owne housholdes .

OF WIDOWES .

1. Co. 7.8 . Therfore I say vnto the vnmaried , and vnto the widowes , it is good for them , if they abide euen as I doe . 12. But if they can not abstaine : let them marrie : for it is better to marrie then to burne .

1. Tim . 5.3 . Honour widowes , which are widowes indeede . 4. But if any widow haue children or nephewes , let them learne first to shewe Godlinesse towarde their owne house , and to recompence their kinred : for that is an honest thing , and acceptable before God . 5. And she that is a widow indeede , and lest alone , trusteth in God , and continueth in supplications and prayers night and day . 6. But shee that liueth in pleasure , is dead , while she liueth . 7. These things therefore commaunde that they may be blamelesse . 8. If there be any that prouideth not for his owne , and namely for them of his houshold , he denieth the faith and is worse then an infidell . 9. Let not a widow be taken into the number , vnder threescore yeare old , that hath bene the wife of one husband . 10. And well reported of , for good workes : if she haue nourished her children , if shee haue lodged the straungers , if she washed the Saintes feete , if shee haue ministred vnto them which were in aduersitie , if shee were continually giuen vnto euerie good worke . 11. But refuse the younger widowes : for when they haue begunne to waxe wanton against Christ , they will marry . 12. Hauing damnation because they haue broken the first faith . 13. And likewise also beinge idle , they learne to goe about from house to house , yea , they are not onelie idle , but also pratlers , & busibodies , speaking things which are not comelie . 14. I will therefore that the younger women marrie , and beare children , and gouerne the house , and giue none occasion to the aduersaries to speake euill . 15. For certaine are alreadie turned backe after Satan . 16. If any faithfull man , or faithfull woman haue widowes , let them minister vnto them , and let not the Church be charged , that there may be sufficient for them that are widowes indeede

OF CHAST AND CONtinent virgines .

Mat . 19.11 . But he said vnto them all men can not receaue this thing , saue they to whom it is giuen . 12. For there are some chast , which were so borne of their mothers bellie : and there be some chast , which be made chast by men : and there be some chast , which haue made them selues chast , for the kingedome of heauen . He that is able to receaue this , let him receaue it .

1. Cor . 7.8 . Therefore I say vnto the vnmaried , and vnto the widowes , it is good for them if they abide euen as I doe . 9. But if they cannot abstaine , let them marrie : for , it is better to marrie then to burne . 25. Now concerning virgins , I haue no commaundement of the Lord : but I giue mine aduice , as one that hath obtained mercie of the Lord to be faithfull . 26. I suppose then thus to be good for the present necessitie : I meane that it is good for a man so to be . 27. Art thou bound to a wife ? seeke not to be loosed : art thou loosed from a wife ? seeke not a wife . 28. But if thou takest a wife , thou sinnest not : neuerthelesse , such shall haue trouble in the flesh : but I spare you . 29. And this I say , brethren , because the time is short , hereafter that both they which haue wiues , be as though they had none . 30. And they that weepe , as though they wept not : and they which reioyce , as though they reioyced not : and they that buie , as though they possessed not . 31. And they that vse this world , as though they vsed it not : for the fashion of the worlde goeth away . 32. And I would haue you without care . The vnmaried careth for the thinges of the Lord , how he may please the Lord . 33. But he that is maried careth for the thinges of the world , how he may please his wife .

OF FATHERS AND Parentes .

Deut . 6 6. And these wordes which I commaund thee this day , shall be in thine heart . 7. And thou shalt rehearse them continuallie vnto thy children , and shalt talke of them when thou tariest in thine house , and as thou walkest by the way , and when thou liest downe , and when thou risest vp .

Deutr . 32.46 . Then he saide vnto them . Set your hearts vnto all the words which I testifie against you this daie , that ye may commaund them vnto your children , that they may obserue and do all the wordes of this Law .

Pro . 13.24 . He that spareth his rod , hateth his sonne : but he that loueth him , chasteneth him betime .

Pro . 19.18 . Chasten thy sonne while there is hope , and let not thy soule spare for his murmuring .

Prou. 23 , 13. With-hold not correction from the child : if thou smite him with the rod , he shall not die . 14. Thou shalt smite him with the rod , and shalt deliuer his soule from hell .

Pro . 29.17 . Correct thy sonne and he will giue thee rest , and will giue pleasure to thy soule .

Ephes . 6.4 . And ye fathers , prouoke not your children to wrath : but bringe thē vp in instruction and information of the Lord .

Colloss . 3.11 . Fathers , prouoke not your children to anger , lest they be discouraged .

OF CHILDREN .

Exod . 20.12 . Honour thy father & thy mother , that thy daies may be prolonged vpon the land , which the Lorde thy God giueth thee .

Deut . 27.16 . Cursed be he that curseth his father and his mother , and all the poople shall say , So be it .

Pro . 20.20 . He that curseth his father , or his mother , his light shall be put out in obscure darkenesse .

Prou. 30.17 . The eye that mocketh his father , and despiseth the instruction of his mother , let the Rauens of the valley picke it out , and the younge Egles eate it .

Ephes . 6.1 . Children , obey your parentes in the Lorde : for this is right . 2. Honour thy father and thy mother , ( which is the first commaundemente with promise . ) 3. That it may be well with thee , and thou maist liue longe on earth .

Colloss . 3.20 . Children obey your parentes in all thinges , for it is well pleasing vnto the Lord .

OF SERVAVNTES AND handmaides .

1. Cor . 7.21 . Art thou called beinge a seruaunt ? care not for it : but if thou mayest be free , vse it rather . 22. For he that is called in the Lord , being a seruaunt , is the Lordes free man : likewise also he which is called beinge free , is Christes seruaunt . 23. Ye are bought with a price , be not the seruauntes of men . 24. Brethren , let euerie man , wherein he was called , therein abide with God .

Eph. 6.5 . Seruants , be obedient to thē that are your maisters , accordinge to the flesh , with feare and tremblinge , in singlenesse of your heart , as vnto Christ . 6. Not with seruice to the eye , as men pleasers , but as the seruauntes of Christ , doinge the will of God from the heart . 7. With good will seruinge the Lord , and not men . 8. And know ye that whatsoeuer good thinge any man doeth , that same shall he receaue of the Lord , whether he be bond or free .

Colloss . 3.22 . Seruauntes , be obedient vnto them that are your maisters , according to the flesh , in all thinges , not with eye seruice , as men pleasers , but in singlenes of hart , fearing God . 23. And whatsoeuer ye do , do it heartely , as to the Lord , and not vnto men . 24. Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receaue the reward of the inheritaunce : for ye serue the Lord Christ : 25. But he that doeth wrong , shall receaue for the wrong that he hath done : and there is no respect of persons .

1. Tim . 6.1 . Let as many seruauntes as are vnder the yoke , count their maisters worthie of all honour , that the name of God , and his doctrine , be not euill spoken of . 2. And they which haue beleeuinge maisters , let them not despise them , because they are brethren , but rather do seruice , because they are faithfull , and beloued , and partakers of the benefits . These thinges teach and exhort .

1. Pet . 2.18 . Seruauntes be subiect to your maisters with all feare , not onely to the good and courteous , but also to the froward . 19. For this is thanke worthie , if a man for conscience toward God endure griefe , suffringe wrongefullie . 20. For what praise is it , if when ye be buffeted for your faultes , ye take it patientlie ? but if when ye do well , ye suffer wronge , and take it patientlie , this is acceptable to God .

OF MAISTERS .

Deut . 25.15 . Thou shalt deliuer the seruant vnto his maister , which is escaped from his maister vnto thee . 16. He shall dwell with thee , euen amonge you , in what place he shall choose , in one of thy cities , where it liketh him best : thou shalt not vex him .

Deut . 32 43. Ye nations , praise his people : for he will auenge the bloud of his seruauntes , and will execute vengeaunce vpon his aduersaries , and will be mercifull vnto his lande , and to his people .

Prouerb . 29.21 . He that delicatelie bringeth vp his seruant from his youth , at length he will be euen as his sonne .

Ephes . 6.9 . And ye maisters , do the same thinges vnto them , puttinge away threatninge : and know that euen your maister also is in heauen , neither is there respect of persons with him .

Colloss . 4.1 . Ye maisters , doe vnto your seruauntes , that which is iust and equall , knowinge , that ye also haue a maister in heauen .

OF POORE AND riche .

Exod . 22.25 . If thou lend money to my people , that is , to the poore with theo , thou shalt not be as an vserer vnto him ye shall not oppresse him with vserie . 26. If thou take thy neighbours raiment to pledge , thou shalt restore it vnto him before the sunne goe downe . 27. For that is his couering onely , and this is his garment for his skinne : wherein shall he sleepe ? therefore when he crieeth vnto me , I will heare him : for I am mercifull .

Leuit. 19.9 . When ye reape the haruest of your hande , ye shall not reape euerie corner of your field , neither shalt thou gather the glaininges of thy haruest . 10. Thou shalt not gather the grapes of thy viniard cleane , neither gather euerie grape of the viniard , but thou shalt leaue them for the poore , & for the straunger , I am the Lord your God .

Deut . 15.7 . If one of thy breathren with thee , be poore within any of thy gates in thy land , which the Lord thy God giueth thee , thou shalt not harden thyne harte , nor shut thine hand from thy poore brother . 11. Because there shal be euer some poore in the lande , therefore I commaund thee , saying , thou shalt open thine hand vnto thy brother , to thy needie , and to thy poore in thy land .

Prouerb . 22.2 . The rich and poore meete togeather : the Lorde is the maker of them all .

Prouerb . 28.27 . He that giueth vnto the poore , shall not lacke : but he that hideth his eyes shall haue many curses .

Ecclesiast . 6.2 . A man to whom God hath giuen riches and treasures , and honour , and he wanteth nothing for his soule of all that it desireth : but God giueth him not power to eate thereof , but a straunge man shall eate it vp : this is vanitie , and this is an euill sickenesse .

Matth . 6.24 . No man can serue two maisters : for either he shall hate the one , and loue the other , or else he shall leane to the one and despise the other . Yea can not serue God and riches .

Matth . 25.40 . And the king shall aunsweare and say vnto them , verely I say vnto you , inasmuch as ye haue done it to one of the least of these my breathren , ye haue done it vnto me .

Matth . 26.11 . For ye haue the poore alwayes with you , but me shall ye not haue alwayes .

Luke . 14.13 . But when thou makest a feast , call the poore , the maimed , the lame , and the blinde .

Luk . 16.9 . And I say vnto you , make your friendes with the riches of iniquitie , that when ye shall want they may receiue you into euerlasting habitations .

1. Timoth . 6.17 . Charge them that are rich in this worlde , that they be not high minded , and that they trust not in vncertaine riches , but in the liuing God ( which giueth vs abundantly all things to enioy . 18. That they do good , and be rich in good workes , and readie to distribute and communicate . 19. Laying vp in store for them selues a good foundation against the time to come , that they may obtaine eternall life .

Iames 1.9 . Let the brother of low degree reioyce in that he is exalted : 10. Againe he that is rich , in that he is made low : for as the flower of the grasse , shall he vanish away .

Iames . 2.2 . For if there come into your companie a man with a gold ring , and in good apparell , and there come in also a poore man , in vile raiment . 3. And ye haue a respect to him that weareth the gaie cloathing , and say vnto him , Sit you here in a good place , and say vnto the poore , stand thou there , or sit thou there vnder my footestole . 4. Are ye not partiall in your selues , and are become Iudges of euill thoughtes ? 5. Harken my beloued brethren , hath no● God chosen the poore of this world , that they should be rich in faith , and heires of the kingdome which he promised to them that loue him . 6. But ye haue despised the poore . Do not the rich oppresse you by tyrannie , and do not they drawe you before the iudgment seates ? 7. Doe not they blaspheme the worthie name after which ye be named ?

The communion of Saincts .

Act. 2.44 . And all that beleeued , were togeather in one place , and had all thinges common . 45. And they solde their possessions and goodes , and parted them to all men , as euerie one had neede .

Act. 4.32 . And the multitude of them that beleeued , were of one heart , and of one soule , neither any of them said , that any thing of that he possessed , was his owne , but they had all thinges common . 54. Neither was there any among them that lacked : for as many as were possessours of landes or houses , solde them , and brought the price of the thinges that were solde . 35. And laide it downe at the Apostles feete and it was distributed to euerie man as he had neede .

Rom. 12.13 . Distributing to the necessities of the Sainctes , giuing your selues to hospitalitie .

1. Corinth . 12.4 . Nowe there are diuersities of giftes , but the same spirite . 5. And there are diuersities of administrations , but the same Lorde . 6. And there are diuersities of operations , but God is the same which worketh all in all 7. But the manifestation of the spirite is giuen to euerie man , to profit withall . 8. For to one is giuen by the Spirite the worde of wisedome : and to an other the word of knoweledge , by the same spirit . 9. And to another is giuen faith by the same spirite , and to an other the giftes of healing by the same spirite . 10. And to an other the operation of great works : and to an other prophesie : and to an other the discerning of spirites : and to an other diuersities of tongues : and to an other the interpretation of tongues . 11. And all these thinges worketh euen the selfe same spirite , distributing to euerie man seuerally as he will . 12. For as the bodie is one , and hath many members , and all the members of the bodie , which is one , though they be many , yet are but one bodie : euen so is Christ . 13. For by one spirite are we all baptized into one bodie : whether we be Iewes or Grecians , whether we be bond , or free , and haue bene all made to drinke into one spirite . 14. For the bodie also is not one member but many . 15. If the foote would say , because I am not the hand , I am not of the bodie , is it therefore not of the bodie ? 16. And if the eare would saie , because I am not the eye , I am not of the bodie , is it therefore not of the bodie ? 17. If the whole bodie were an eye , where were the hearing ? If the whole were hearing , where were then the smelling ? 18. But now hath God d●sposed the members euerie one of them in the bodie at his owne pleasure . 19. For if they were all one member , where were the bodie ? 20. But now are there many members , yet but one bodie . 21. And the eye can not say vnto the hand , I haue no neede of thee : nor the head againe to the feete , I haue no neede of you . 22. Yea much rather , those members of the bodie , which seeme to be more feeble , are necessarie . 23. And vpon those members of the bodie , which we thinke most vnhonest , put we more honestie on : and our vncomelie partes , haue more comelinesse on . 24. For our comelie partes neede it not : but God hath tempred the bodie together , and hath giuen the more honour to that part which lacked . 25. Lest there should be any diuision in the bodie : but that the members should haue the same care one for another . 26. Therefore if one member suffer , all suffer with it : if one member be had in honour , all the members reioice with it . 27. Now ye are the body of Christ , and members for your part .

Ephes . 3.3 . That is , that God by reuelation hath shewed this misterie vnto me ( as I wrote aboue in fewe wordes . 4. Whereby when ye reade , ye may knowe mine vnderstandinge in the misterie of Christ ) 5. Which in other ages was not opened vnto the sonnes of men , as it is now reuealed vnto his holie Apostles and Prophets by the spirit . 6. That the Gentiles should be inheritoures also , and of the same bodie , and partakers of his promise in Christ by the Gospell . 7. Whereof I am made a minister by the gift of grace of God giuen vnto me through the workinge of his power . 8. Euen vnto me the least of all Sainctes is this grace giuen , that I should preach amonge the Gentiles , the vnsearchable riches of Christ . 9. And to make cleare vnto all men , what the felowship of the misterie is , which from the beginninge of the world hath bene hid in God , who hath created all things by Iesus Christ . 10. To the intent , that now vnto principalities and powers , in heauenlie places , might be knowen , by the Church the manifold wisedome of God . 11. According to the eternall purpose , which he wrought in Christ Iesus our Lord . 12. By whom we haue bouldnesse and entraunce with confidence , by faith in him . 13. Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for your sakes , which is your glory . 14. For this cause I bow my knees vnto the father of our Lord Iesus Christ . 15. ( Of whom is named the whole familie in heauen , and in earth . ) 16. That he might graunt you accordinge to the riches of his glory , that ye may be strengthned by his spirit in the inner man .

Collossians . 3.12 . Nowe therefore as the electe of God , holie and beloued , put on tender mercie , kindenesse , humblenesse of minde , meekenesse , longe suffringe : 13. Forbearinge one an other , and forgiuinge one an other , if any man haue a quarrell to an other : euen as Christ forgaue , euen so doe ye . 14. And aboue all these things put on loue , which is the bond of perfectnesse .

This article is added for to declare what that assemblie and companie is which we haue named the Church , and doth signifie that among the members thereof there is a coniunction , that is to lay a companie , communion , communaltie , and societie , and that they are as a bodie of a common weale , euerie one being partaker of the common priueledges of the same , and communicating togeather in all things . This societie hath two bondes , to wit faith and charitie . By faith all the riches and treasures of Christ are made common vnto vs , in such sorte that without any acception of persons all may be made partakers thereof . Wherefore all those that haue faith are called into an hope of vocation , into a looking for of one resurrection , and one inheritage of euerlasting life , and are led & conducted by one Spirit , receiued into one selfe same participation of the bodie & blood of the Lord , members of one Church , by one faith , & one baptisme . The second band is charitie , through which the one communicateth to the other , that which they haue receiued of God , be it in spirituall grace , or temporall goodes . For although there is a difference of these thinges , that God distributeth them to some particularly and not to others , or to some more to some lesse , as he will , and according as he knoweth it to be expedient , notwithstanding all ought to be referred through charitie to the common profit and vtilitie of the whole Church , and serue for the wellfare of all the members , which Sainct Paule doth so well declare in this notable comparison which he maketh of the bodie of man and the members thereof , with the bodie of the Church , and the members of the same .

The forgiuenes of sinnes .

Esai . 33.24 . And none inhabitaunt shall saie I am sicke : the people that dwell therein shall haue their iniquitie forgiuen .

Eze . 33.11 . Say vnto thē , as I liue , saith the Lord God , I desire not the death of the wicked , but that the wicked tourne from his waies and liue : tourne you , for why will ye die , O ye house of Israell .

Ose . 2.18 . And in that day will I make a couenaunt for them , with the wilde beastes , and with the foule of the heauen , and with that that crepeth vpon the earth : and I will breake the bow , and the sworde and the battell out of earth , and will make them to sleepe safely . 19. I will marrie thee vnto me for euer , yea I will marrie the vnto me in righteousnes and in iudgement , and in mercie , and in compassion .

Luke . 24.46 . And saide vnto them , thus it is written , and thus it behoued Christ to suffer , and to rise againe from the dead the third day . 47. And that repentance and remission of sinnes should be preached in his name among all nations , being at Ierusalem .

Ihon . 3.17 . For God sent not his sonne into the world that he should condemne the world , but that the worlde through him might be saued . 18. He that beleeueth in him shall not be condemned but he that beleeueth not is condemned alreadie , because he beleeueth n●t in the name of the onelie begotten Sonne of God . 19. And this is the condemnation , that light is come into the world , and men loued darkenesse rather then light , because their deedes were euill .

Iohn . 5.24 . He that heareth my word , and beleeueth in him that sent me , hath euerlasting life , and shall not come into condemnation , but hath passed from death vnto life .

Act. 10.43 . To him also giue all the Prophetes witnesse , that through his name , all that beleeue in him , shall receaue remission of sinnes :

Act. 13.38 . Be it known vnto you therfore , men and brethren , that through this man is preached vnto you the forgiuenesse of sinnes . 39. And f●om all thinges , from which ye could not be iustified by the Law of M●ses , by him euerie one that beleeueth , is iustified .

Actes . 2.38 . Amend your liues and be baptized euerie one of you , in the name of Iesus Christ , for the remission of sinnes : and ye shall receaue the gift of the holie Ghost .

Rom. 3.22 . The righteousnesse of God , is by the faith of Iesus Christ , vnto all , and vpon all that beleeue . 23. For there is no ●ifference , for all haue sinned , and are depriued of the glorie of God . 24. And are iustified freely by his grace , through the redemption that is in Christ Iesus . 25. Whom God hath set foorth to be a reconciliation through faith in his bloud , to declare his righteousnesse , by the forgiuenes of the sinnes that are passed through the pacience of God .

Rom. 5.1 . Then beinge iustified by faith , we haue peace toward God thorough our Lord Iesus Christ . 2. By whom also we haue accesse through faith vnto his grace , wherein we stand , and reioyce vnder the hope of the glory of God . &c. 9. Much more then , being now iustified by his bloud , we shall be saued from wrath through him . 10. For if when we were enemies , we were reconciled to God by the death of his Sonne , much more beinge reconciled , we shall be saued by his life .

Rom. 8.1 . Now then there is no condemnation to them that are in Christ Iesus , which walke not after the flesh , but after the spirit . 2. For the law of the spirit of life , which is in Christ Iesus , hath freed me from the Law of sinne & death .

1. Cor . 6.11 . And such were some of you , but ye are washed , but ye are sanctified , but ye are iustified in the name of our Lorde Iesus , and by the spirit of our God .

2. Corinth . 5.8 . Neuerthelesse we are bolde , and loue rather to remoue out of the bodie , and to dwell with the Lorde . 9. Wherefore also we couet , that both dwelling at home , and remouing from home , we may be acceptable vnto him .

Ephes . 1.7 . By whom we haue redemption through his bloud , euen the forgiuenesse of sinnes , accordinge to his rich grace . 10. That in the dispensation of the fulnesse of times , he might gather together in one all thinges , both which are in heauen , and which are in earth , euen in Christ . 11. In whom also we are chosen , when we were predestinate accordinge to the purpose of him , which worketh all thinges after the counsell of his owne will .

Collo . 1.14 . In whom we haue redemption through his bloud , that is , the forgiuenesse of sinnes .

Hebr . 9.14 . How much more shall the bloud of Christ , which through the eternall spirit offred him selfe without spot to God , purge your conscience from dead workes , to serue the liuing God . 15. And for this cause is he the mediatour of the n●w testament , that through death which was for the redemption of the transgressions which were in the former testament , that they which were called , might receaue the promise of eternall inheritaunce .

Hebr . 10.10 . By the which will we are sanctified , euen by the offringe of the bodie of Iesus Christe once made . 14. For with one offringe hath he consecrated for euer them , that are sanctified . &c. 18 Nowe where remission of these thinges is , there is no more offring for sinne .

1. Iohn . 2.1 . And if anie man sinne , we haue an aduocate with the father , Iesus Christ , the iust . 2. And he is the reconciliation for our sinnes : and not for ours onely , but also for the sinnes of the whole world .

The remission of sinnes is ioyned vnto the Church for two reasons , the one is , because it is not , nor can be obtayned , but onelie of those which are members of the Church , and that out of it there is no saluation , euen as our of the Arcke of Noe , there is sou●d nothinge but death and destruction . For sit● that remission of sinnes is giuen vnto vs through Iesus Christ , we must be members of his bodie , that we may obtaine it . But we can not be his members without we be of his Church , which is his bodie , wherof he is the head . To the end therfore that through remission our sinnes may be blotted out , we must be of the Church . The other , because the Church can not consist , but by remission of sinnes , and there is none also which is receaued in the same for a true member , but by remission of sinnes . Wherefore al●o we are washed with water from the beginninge , to shew and declare that we haue entred there , by the spirituall washing away of our vncleannesse , for that cause also was the word and administration of reconciliation put in the same , that our faultes may not be imputed vnto vs. Take away therefore the remission of sinnes , & we shall not onelie be separated from the Church , but there shall not be anie Church at all . Take away the Church also , and this grace of free pardon which God hath promised , shall be vaine and vnprofitable . And this is that which we beleeue in this article .

The resurrection of the bodie .

Iob . 19.25 . For I am sure that my redeemer liueth , & he shall stand the last on the earth . 26. And though after my skinne wormes destroy this bodie , yet shall I see God in my flesh .

Isaias . 26.19 . Thy dead men shall liue : euen with my body shall they rise . Awake and singe , ye that dwell in dust , for thy dewe is as the dewe of herbs , and the earth shall cast out the dead .

Isaias . 66.14 . And when ye see this , your heart shall reioice , and your bones shall flourish like an herbe : and the hand of the Lord shall be known among his seruauntes , and his indignation against his enemies .

Ezech . 37.5 . Thus saith the Lorde God vnto these bones , Behold , I will cause breath to enter into you , and ye shall liue . 6. And I will lay sinewes vpon you , and make flesh grow vpon you , and couer you with skinne , and put breath in you , that ye may liue , and ye shall know that I am the Lord . 10. And the breath came into them , and they liued , and stood vp vpon their feete , an exceeding great armie . 13. And ye shall knowe that I am the Lord , when I haue opened your graues , O my people , and brought you vp out of your sepulchres . 14. And shall put my spirit into you , and ye shall liue .

Dan . 12.2 . And many of them that sleepe in the dust of the earth , shall awake , some to euerlasting life , and some to shame and perpetuall contempt .

Iohn . 5.28 . Maruell not at this : for the houre shall come , in the which , all that are in the graues , shall heare his voice . 29. And they shall come foorth , that haue done good , vnto the resurrection of life : but they that haue done euill , vnto the resurrection of condemnation .

Iohn . 6.44 . No man can come to me , except the father , which hath sent me , draw him : and I will raise him vp at the last day .

Iohn . 11.24 . Martha said vnto him , I knowe that he shall rise againe in the resurrection at the last day .

Actes . 24.14 . But this I confesse vnto thee , that after the way ( which ye call heresie ) so worship I the God of my fathers , beleeuing all the things which a●e written in the Lawe and the Prophetes . 15. And haue hope towardes God , that the resurrection of the dead , which they them selues looke for also , shall be both of iust and vniust .

Rom. 8.21 . Because the creature also shall be deliuered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious libertie of the sonnes of God . 22. For we knowe that euerie creature groneth with vs also , and trauaileth in paine together vnto this present . 23. And not onely the creatures , but we also which haue the first fruites of the spirit , euen we do sigh in our selues , waitinge for the adoption , euen the redemption of our body . 24. For we are saued by hope . &c.

1. Cor . 15.20 . But now is Christ risen from the dead , and was made the first fruites of them that slept . 21. For since by man came death , by man also came the resurrection of the dead . 22. For as in Adam all die , euen so in Christ shall all be made aliue . 23. But euery man in his own order : the first frutes is Christs , afterward , they that are of Christ , at his comming shall rise againe . &c. 51. Behold I shew you a secret thing , we shall not all sleepe , but we shall all be chaunged . 52. In a moment in the twinkling of an eye at the laste trumpet : for the trumpet shall blowe , and the dead shall be raised vp incorruptible , and we shall be chaunged . 53. For this corruptible must put on incorruption , and this mortall must put on immortalitie .

Phillip . 3.20 . But our conuersation is in heauen , from whence also we looke for the sauiour , euen the Lorde Iesus Christ . 21. Who shall chaunge our vile bodie , that it may be facioned like vnto his glorious bodie , accordinge vnto the workinge whereby he is able to subdue all thinges vnto him selfe .

Colloss . 3.4 . When Christ which is our life , shall appeare , then shall ye also appeare with him in glorie .

1. Thess. 4.13 . I would not brethren , haue you ignorant concerninge them which are a sleepe , that ye sorow not euen as other which haue no hope . 14. For if we beleeue that Iesus is dead , and is risen , euen so them which sleepe in Iesus , will God bringe with him . 15. For this say we vnto you , by the word of the Lord , that we which liue , and are remaininge in the cominge of the Lorde , shall not preuente them which sleepe . 16. For the Lord him selfe shall descend from heauen with a show●e , and with the voice of the Archangell , and with the trumpet of God : and the dead in Christ shall rise first . 17. Then shall we which liue and remaine , be caught vp with them also in the cloudes , to meete the Lord in the ayre , and so shall we euer be with the Lord .

This resurrection which we confesse , is of the flesh not of the spirit , that is to say , that it shall not be the soule or spirit of man , which shall rise againe , ( for according to that part man is immortall , ) but the body : not an other , but the selfe same , which was put of , buried , corrupted , rotted , and brought to ashes : that same bodie , I say , shall be raised vp againe and fullie restored , & againe ioyned with his soule , yea , and that although it were burnt , & the ashes cast into the wind , or eaten and deuoured of wilde brutish beastes , yet by the puissaunt power of almightie God , it shall retourne into his former beinge . Moreouer this resurrection shall not be a particuler : that is to say , some , or the good onelie , shall rise againe : but generallie all flesh , to witte , euery man , be he good , be he euill , be he faithfull , be he faithlesse , of what age , of what time , of what nation , of what religion soeuer he was of , all must rise . Notwithstandinge it shall not be in semblable sort and like condition : for they which shall haue done well , shall go into the resurrection of life , that is to say , to saluation , ioy , and eternall felicitie , they which shall haue done euill , shall goe in the resurrection of condemnation , that is to say , to death , and eternall perdition .

OF THE DEAD , AND those which are passed out of the world before the resurrection .

Leuit. 21.1 . And the Lord said vnto Moses , speake vnto the Priestes the sonnes of Aaron , and say vnto them , let none be defiled by the dead among this people . 4. He shall not lament for the Prince among his people , to pollute him selfe . 11. Neither shall he goe to anie dead bodie , nor make himselfe vncleane by his father or by his mother . &c.

Nomb . 6.6 . During the time that he separateth himselfe vnto the Lord , he shall come at no dead bodie .

Deutr . 14.1 . Ye are the children of the Lord your God , ye shall not cut your selues , nor make you anie baldnesse betweene your eyes for the dead . 2. For thou art an holie people vnto the Lord thy God . &c.

Forasmuch as the new fashions and maners which men draw from the Pagans and Hethenish men , do darken and ouercloude the truth , God forbiddeth the superstition vsed , which was , to cut their faces , to shaue their heare by circles , or to teare their flesh , and such like fashions of mourninge .

Deut . 18.10 . Let none be found amonge you that maketh his sonne or his daughter to go through the fier , or that vseth witchcraft , or a regarder of times , or a marker of the flying of fowles , or a sorcerer . 11. Or a charmer , or that counselleth with spirits , or a southsayer , or that asketh counsell at the dead . 12. For all that do such things are abhomination vnto the Lord . &c.

Deut . 26.13 . Then thou shalt say before the Lord thy God . &c. 14. I haue not eaten thereof in my mourning , nor suffered ought to perish thorough vncleannesse , nor giuen ought thereof for the dead , but haue harkened vnto the voyce of the Lorde my God : I haue done after all that thou hast commaunded me .

He signifieth in this place , all those thinges , which haue a fayre shewe and colour of pietie and deuotion .

1. Samuel . 28.20 . Saul punished for that he demaunded counsell of a witch , and of the dead . &c.

Ezechiell . 44.25 . And they shall come at no dead person to defile themselues , except at their father , or mother , or sonne , or daughter , brother , or sister , that hath had yet no husband : in these they may be defiled .

Luke . 16.29 . Abraham saide vnto him , they haue Moses and the Prophetes , let them heare them . 31. If they heare not Moses , and the Prophetes , neither will they be perswaded though one rise from the dead againe .

Luke . 23.43 . Then Iesus sayd vnto him . Verelie I say vnto thee , to day shalt thou be with me in Paradise .

And life euerlasting . THE BEGINNING OF of the life to come .

Ioh . 3.14 . And as Moises lift vp the serpent in the wildernes , so must the sonne of man be lift vp . 15. That Whosoeuer beleeueth in him should not perish , but haue eternall life .

Ihon . 5.24 . Verely , verely , I say vnto you , he that heareth my word , and beleeueth in him that sent me , hath euerlasting life , and shall not come into condemnation , but hath passed from death vnto life .

Ioh . 6.47 . Verely , verely , I say vnto you . He that beleeueth in me , hath euerlasting life . 63. The wordes that I speake vnto you are spirit and life . 68. Then Simon Peter answered him , Maister to whom shall we goe ? Thou hast the wordes of eternall life .

Ioh . 11.25 . Iesus said vnto her , I am the resurrection and the life : he that beleeueth in me , though he were deade , yet shall he liue : 26. And whosoeuer liueth and beleeueth in me , shall neuer die .

Ioh . 17.3 . And this is life eternall , that they knowe thee to be the onely verie God , and whom thou hast sent , Iesus Christ .

Act. 13.48 . And as many as were ordained vnto eternall life , beleeued .

Titus . 1.2 . Vnder hope of eternall life , which God that can not lie , hath promised before the worlde began .

1. Ioh . 5.11 . And this is the record , which God bore of his sonne , to wit that God hath giuen vnto vs eternall life : and this life is in his sonne .

OF THE FVLL LIFE to come .

Psal . 22.26 . The poore shall eate , and be satisfied : they that seeke after the Lord , shall praise him , your heart shall liue for euer .

Esa . 25.8 . Apoc . 7.17 . & . 21.4 . He will destroy death for euer : and the Lord God will wipe away the teares from all faces , & the rebuke of his people will he take away , out of all the earth : for the Lord hath spoken it . 9. And in that day shall men say , lo , this is our God , we haue waited for him and he wil saue vs. This is the Lorde , we haue waited for him : we will reioyce and be ioyfull in his saluation .

Esai . 51.11 . Therefore the redeemed of the Lord shall returne , and come with ioy vnto Sion , and euerlasting ioy , & gladnes : & sorow & mourning shall flie away .

Esai . 65.17 . For lo , I will create new heauens and a new earth , and the former shall not be remembred nor come into minde . 18. But be you glad and reioyce for euer in the things that I shall create : for behold , I will create Ierusalem as a reioycing , and her people as a ioy . 19. And I will reioyce in Ierusalem , and ioye in my people , and the voice of weeping shallbe no more hard in her , n●r the voice of crying . 20. There shal be no more there a child of yeares , nor an olde man that hath not filled his dayes : for he that shal be an hundreth yeres olde , shall die as a yong man , but the sinner being an hundreth yeares olde shal be accursed .

Dan . 12.1 . And at that time shall Mychaell stand vp , the great prince , which standeth for the children of thy people , and there shal be a time of trouble , such as neuer was since there began to be a nation vnto that same time : & at that time thy people shal be deliuered ; euery one that shal be founde written in the booke .

Matth . 13.43 . Then shall the iust men shine as the sunne in the kingdome of their father .

Mat . 19.28 . And Iesus said vnto thē , verely I say vnto you , that when the sonne of man shall sit in the throne of his maiestie , ye which followed me in the regeneration , shall sit also vpon the twelue thrones , and iudge the twelue tribes of Israell . 29. He shall receiue an hundreth folde more , and shall inherite euerlasting life .

Matth . 22.30 . For in the resurrection they neither marrie wiues , nor wiues are best●wed in mariage , but are as the Angels of God in heauen .

Matth . 25.34 . Ioh . 5.29 . Then shall the king saie to them on his right hand , come ye blessed of my father , inherite ye the kingdome prepared for you from the foundation of the worlde . 35. For I was an hungred , and ye gaue me meate : I thi●sted , and ye gaue me drinke : I was a straunger , and ye lodged me . &c. 41. Then shall he say vnto them on the left hand , depart from me ye cursed into euerlasting fire which is prepared for the Deuill and his Angells . &c. 46. And these shall goe into euerlasting paine , and the righteous into life eternall .

Rom. 2.6 . God will reward euerie one according to his workes : 7. That is , to them which by continuance in well doing seeke glorie , and honour , and immortalitie , eternall life : &c.

Rom. 5.17 . They shall reigne in life through one that is Iesus Christ .

Rom. 6.23 . For the wages of sinne is death : but the gift of God is eternall life , through Iesus Christ our Lorde .

Rom. 8.17 . Yf we be children , we are also heires euen the heires of God , and heires annexed with Christ , if so be we suffer with him , that we may also be glorified with him . 18. For I count that the afflictions of this present time are not worthie of the glorie which shal be shewed vnto vs. 29. For those which he knew before , he also predestinate to be made like to the image of his sonne , that he might be the first borne among manie breathren . 30. Moreouer whom he hath predestinate , them also he called : and whom he called , them also he iustified , and whom he iustified , them he also glorified .

1. Cor . 2.9 . The thinges which eye hath not seene , neither eare heard , neither came into mans hart , are which God hath prepared for them that loue him .

1. Cor . 13.12 . For now we see through a glasse darkely : but then shall we see face to face . Now I know in parte : but then shall I know euen as I am knowen .

Colos . 3.3 . For ye are dead , and your life is hid with Christ in God . 4. When Christ which is our life shal appeare , thē shall ye also appeare with him in glorie .

Heb . 10.34 For both ye sorowed with we for my bondes , and suffred with ioy the spoiling of your goodes , knowing in your selues how that ye haue in heauen a better and an induringe substance .

Heb . 13.14 . For here haue we no continuing civi● , but we seeke one to come .

1. Peter . 5.4 . And when the chiefe sheepehard shall appeare , ye shall receiue an incorruptible crowne of glorie .

1. Iohn . 2 25. And this is the promise that he hath promised vs , euen eternall life .

1. Iohn . 3.2 . Dearely beloued , now are we the sonnes of God , but yet it doth not appeare what we shal be : and we know that when he shall appeare , we shal be like him : for we shall see him as he is . 3. And euerie man that hath this hope in him , purgeth himselfe , euen as he is pure .

Apo. 2 7. Let him that hath an eare , heare , what the spirit saith to the churches , to him that ouercommeth , will I giue to eate of the tree of life , which is in the middest of the parad●se of God . 10. Be thou faithfull vnto the death , and I will giue thee a crowne of life .

We know that many haue bene raised vp from death , as by Elyas and Eliseus , by Iesus Christ and his Apostles : notwithstanding it was in such sort , that againe they dyed , and retourned to the graue . But it shall not be so at the generall resurrection which shal be in the end of all : for the bodies shal be made in corruptible and immortall , and shall rise againe to life eternall and euerlasting . Notwithstanding with such a difference that the elect shall haue glorie , ioy , and felicitie , and the reprobate , miserie , and perpetuall torment , and in such sort shall they be immortall , that it shall be euerlastingly to suffer the paine prepared for the Deuill and his angells . It is that which Iesus Christ saith , that they which shall haue done well , shall go into the resurrection of life , & they which shall haue done euil , into the resurrection of condemnation . Now to shew this difference , following the custome of the Scripture , the estate of the good is called eternal life : not because the wicked liue not eternally : but for as much as their miserable condition shal be more like to a captiuitie , a prison , and a death then a life , it ought also to be called rather a death then a life . And the estate of the good is simplie called eternall life , forasmuch as they shall want nothing to liue blessedly without anie griefe or vexation , as well according to the bodies ( which shal be deliuered of all infirmities , corruption , filthines and vice ) as the soules which shal be altogeather rauished with the contemplation of their God , with contentation and perpetuall and euerlasting ioy . Now the true confession of this article is not onely , that there is an eternall life after death and after the resurrection , but also that it is ours , & that it is prepared for vs , and that we beleeue holding our selues assured that we shall come thither .

A SVMMARIE OF faith .

Rom. 10.9 . For if thou shalt confesse with thy mouth the Lord Iesus , and shalt beleeue in thine heart , that God raised him vp from the dead , thou shalt be saued .

1. Tim . 3.16 . And without controuersie , great is the misterie of godlines , which is , God is manifested in the flesh , iustified in the spirite , seene of Angells , preached vnto the Gentiles , beleeued on in the worlde , and receiued vppe in glorie .

A DECLARATION VPON THE TEN COMMAVNDEMENTS by the which God commaundeth vs to do well , and forbiddeth vs to doe euill .

FIRST GENERALLIE of the Lawe .

Exod . 31.18 . Deut . 9.10 . Thus when the Lord had made an end of communing with Moises vpon the mount Sinai ) he gaue him two tables of the testimonie , euen tables of stone , written with the finger of God .

Deut . 4.13 . Exod . 34.28 . Then he declared vnto you his couenaunt , which he commaunded you to do , euen the ten commaundementes , and wrote them vpon two tables of stone .

Iohn . 1.17 . For the law was giuen by Moises , but grace and truth came by Iesus Christ .

Rom. 7.12 . Wherefore the lawe is holy , and the commaundement is holy , and iust , and good .

Gal. 3.19 . Act. 7.38 . It was added because of the transgressions , till the seede came , vnto the which the promise was made : and it was ordained by Angels in the hand of a mediatour . 24. Wherefore the Law was our schoole-maister to bringe vs to Christ , that we might be made righteous by faith .

1. Tim . 1.8 . And we know that the Law is good , if a man vse it lawfullie . 9. Knowing this that the Law is not giuen vnto a righteous man , but vnto the lawlesse and disobedient , to the vngodlie and to sinners , to the vnholie and to the prophane , to murtherers of fathers and mothers , to manslears .

THE PREFACE .

Harken O Israell , I am the Lord . &c.

Exod . 3.15 . And God spake further vnto Moses , thus shalt thou say vnto the children of Israell , the Lord God of your fathers , the God of Abraham , Isack , and Iacob , hath sent me vnto you : this is my name for euer , and this is my memoriall vnto all ages . 16. The Lord God of your fathers , the God of Abraham , Izhak , and Iaakob .

Exodus . 5.1 . Then afterward Moses and Aaron went and said to Pharaoh , Thus saith the Lord of Israell , let my people goe , that they may celebrate a feast vnto me in the wildernesse .

Isaias . 42.5 . Thus saith God the Lord ( he that created the heauens , and spred them abrode : he that stretcheth foorth the earth , and the buddes thereof : he that giueth breath vnto the people vpon it , and spirit to them that walk therein .

Isaias . 45.22 . For I am God , and there is none other . 13. I haue sworne by my selfe : the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousnesse , and shall not retourne , That euerie knee shall bowe vnto me , and euerie tongue shall sweare by me .

Isaias . 57.15 . For thus saith he that is high and excellent , he that inhabiteth the eternitie , whose name is the holie one , I dwell in the high and holie place , with him also which is of a contrite and humble spirit , to reuiue the spirit of the humble , and to giue life to them that are of a contrite heart .

Amos . 9.6 . He buildeth his spheres in heauen , and hath laide the foundation of his globe of elementes in earth , he calleth the waters of the sea , and powreth them out vpon the open earth : the Lord is his name .

Malach . 1.6 . If I be a maister , where is my feare ? &c.

God that he might giue authoritie to his Law , vseth a verie fitte preface for the same . First he calleth him selfe Lord , to declare that he hath all power , and to whom is due all obedience , for asmuch as he it is , which hath neither beginning nor ending , and of whom , and by whom , and in whom all things haue their beinge . By these titles also he separateth him selfe , from all false and fayned Gods , which men haue inuented and forged vnto themselues : as if he should say , I am the true God , which haue mine atuhoritie of my selfe , and not at the pleasure of men , and without anie right that they can therein pretend . But I am the Lorde , I am God by my selfe . It is I one he that haue authoritie to commaund and giue lawes . It is to me that all honour , homage , and obedience is due . It is I onelie , that can take vengeance of all those which shall be rebellious , and that will not obey me : and there is none other but I alone , which haue such power , for I am the Lord thy God , and all other Gods are nothing else but lies and vanities .

Thy God .

Genes . 17.7 . Moreouer I will establish my couenaunt betweene me and thee , and thy seede after thee in their generations , for an euerlastinge couenaunt , to be good vnto thee and thy seede after thee . 8. And I will giue thee & thy seede after thee the land , wherin thou art a straunger , euen all the land of Canaan , for an euerlasting possession , and I will be their God .

Deut . 4.20 . But the Lord hath taken you and brought you out of the iron fornace : out of Egipt to be vnto him a people and inheritance , as appeareth this day .

Deut . 7.6 . For thou art a holie people vnto the Lord thy God , the Lord thy God hath chosen thee , to be a precious people vnto himselfe , aboue all people that are vpon earth . 7. The Lord did not set his loue vpon you , nor chose you , because ye were mo in number thē any people : for ye were the fewest of all people . 8. But because the Lorde loued you , & because he would keepe the oth , which he had sworne vnto your fathers , the Lord hath brought you out by a mightie hand , and deliuered you out of the house of bondage , from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egipt . 9. That thou maist know , that the Lord thy God he is God , the faithfull God , which keepeth couenant and mercy vnto them that loue him and keepe his commaundementes , euen to a thousand generations . 10. And rewardeth them to their face that hate him , to bring them to destruction : he will not defer to reward him that hateth him to his face . 11. Keepe thou therefor the commaundementes , & the ordinances , and the lawes , which I commaund thee this day to do them .

Deut . 10.12 . And now Israell , what doeth the Lord thy God require of thee , but to feare the Lord thy God , to walke in all his wayes , and to loue him , and to serue him , the Lord thy God , with all thine heart , and with all thy soule ? 13. That thou keepe the commaundementes of the Lord , and his ordinaunces , which I commaund thee this day , for thy welth . 14. Behold heauen , and the heauen of heauens is the Lordes thy God , and the earth with all that therein is . 15. Notwithstanding the Lord set his delight in thy father to loue them , and did chose their seede after thē , euen you aboue all people , as appeareth this day .

Deuter . 14.1 . Ye are the children of the Lord your God . &c. 2. For thou art an holie people vnto the Lord thy God , and the Lord hath chosen thee to be a precious people vnto himselfe , aboue all the people that are vpon the earth .

Deut . 26.18 . And the Lord hath set thee vp this day , to be a precious people vnto him ( as he hath promised thee ) and that thou shouldest keepe all his commaundementes .

Deuter . 32.8 . When the most high God deuided to the nations their inheritaunce , when he separated the sonnes of Adam , he appointed the borders of the people , according to the nomber of the children of Israell . 9. For the Lords portion is his people : Iaakob is the lotte of his inheritaunce . 10. He found him in the land of the wildernesse , in a waste , & roaring wildernes : he led him about , he taught him , and kept him as the apple of his ey . 11. As an Eagle stirreth vp her nest , flotreth ouer her birds , stretcheth out her wings , taketh thē , & beareth thē on her wings . 12. So the Lord alone led him , & there was no strange God with him .

Isaias . 5.1 . Now will I sing vnto my beloued , a song of my beloued , to his vineyard , My beloued had a vineyard in a very fruiteful hil . 2. And he hedged it , and gathered out the stones of it , and he planted it with the best plantes , and he built a tower in the middest thereof , and made a vine-presse therein : then he looked that it should bringe foorth grapes : but it brought foorth wilde grapes . 3. Now therefore , O inhabitants of Ierusalem , and men of Iudah , iudge , I pray you , betweene me and my vineyard . 4. What could I haue done anie more to my vine-yard that I haue not done vnto it ? Why haue I loked that it should bring foorth grapes , and it bringeth foorth wild grapes ? 7. Surelie the vine-yard of the Lord of hosts is the house of Israell , and the men of Iudah are his pleasant plantes , and he looked for iudgement : but behold oppression : for righteousnesse , but behold a crying .

Ierem . 2.21 . Yet I had planted thee a noble vine , whose plantes were all naturall : how then art thou tourned vnto me into the plantes of a straunge vine ?

Hosea . 11.1 . When Israell was a childe , then I loued him , and called my sonne out of Egipt . 2. They called them , but they went thus from them : they sacrificed vnto Baalim , and burnt incense to images . 3. I led Ephraim also , as one should beare them in his armes : but they knew not that I healed them . 4. I led them with cords of a man , euen with bandes of loue , and I was to them , as he that taketh of the yoke from their iawes , and I layd the meate vnto them .

Malach . 1.6 . If I am a father , where is my loue ?

Eph. 2.20 . For we are his workmanship , created in Christ Iesus vnto good workes , which God hath ordained , that we should walke in them .

In this God hath a regard to the couenaunt which he made with his people , choosinge and separatinge them from all the rest of men , as his peculier people : and his owne inheritaunce , and promised that he would be their God , & they should be his people . The which couenant tended to the end they should render to him loue , seruice , and obedience , as imported these wordes , I will be thy God , and thou shalt be my people . By this therefore they were admonished and put in minde of their duetie , to the which they had bound them selues accordinge to the tenour of the couenaunt made , that is , to obey him . Now if this reason ought to be of force and waight among them , it ought to haue no lesse amonge vs. For besides that God hath chosen and created vs , to walke in righteousnes and holines , we haue bounde our selues more sure , when in Baptisme we gaue our selues to his seruice , and renounced our selues .

Which haue brought thee out of the land of Egipt , out of the house of bondage .

Leui . 26.13 . I am the Lord your God , which haue brought you out of the land of Egipt , that ye should not be their bondmen , and I haue broken the bonds of your yoke , and made you go vpright .

1. Cor . 5.7 . Purge out therefore the old leauen , that ye may be a new lumpe , as ye are vnleauened : for Christ our Passeouer is sacrificed for vs.

Colloss . 1.12 . Giuing thankes vnto the father , which hath made vs meete to be partakers of the inheritaunce of the Sainctes in light . 13. Who hath deliuered vs from the power of darkenesse , and hath translated vs into the kingedome of his deare Sonne . 14. In whom we haue redemption through his bloud , that is , the forgiuenesse of sinnes .

Hebr . 2.14 . Forasmuch then as the children were partakers of flesh and bloud , he also him selfe likewise tooke part with them , that he might destroie through death , him that had the power of death , that is the Deuill . 15. And that he might deliuer all them , which for feare of death , were all their life time subiect to bondage .

He admonisheth and putteth the people in minde of all the benefits which God had done vnto them , ( comprising vnder one all the rest ) to the ende that through the remembraunce of such a liberalitie , they might be moued to yeeld him obedience . But this is not onelie said for the children of Israell : but it appertayneth much more vnto vs , which are redeemed by Iesus Christ , not onelie from corporall bondage , but also from the spirituall , which is from Satan , from sinne , from death . For the first deliueraunce , that is , the corporall is a tipe and figure of the second , to wit , of the spirituall . Then insomuch as the benefit , which we haue receaued through our Lord Iesus Christ , is greater thē that , which the Iewes receaued by Moses , so much the more also , are we bound for to acknowledge and obey him .

THE FIRST COMmaundement .

Thou shalt haue none other Gods but me .

Deut . 4.31 . ( For the Lord thy God is a mercifull God ) &c. 35. Vnto thee it was shewed , that thou mightest know , that the Lord he is God , and that there is none but he alone .

Deut . 6.4 . Heare , O Israell , the Lord our God is Lord onelie .

Deut . 32.39 . Behold now , for I , I am he , and there is no Gods with me .

1. Chron . 17.20 . Lord , there is none like thee , neither is there any God besides thee , according to all that we haue heard with our eares .

Psal . 18.31 . For who is God , besides the Lord ? and who is mightie , saue our God ?

Psal . 49.6 . They trust in their Gods , and boast them selues in the multitude of their riches . 7. Yet a man can by no meanes redeeme his brother , he can not giue his ransome to God ,

Psal . 86.10 . For thou art great , and doest wonderous thinges : thou art God alone .

Psalm . 146.2 . Put not your trust in Princes , nor in the sonnes of man , for there is no helpe in them .

Isai . 44.6 . Thus saith the Lord the king of Israell , and his redeemer , the Lord of hostes , I am the first , and I am the last , and without me is there no God . 8. Ye are euen my witnesses , whether there be a God beside me . &c.

Isaias . 45.5 . I am the Lord and there is none other : there is no God besides me . 21. Am not I the Lord ? there is none other God besides me , a iust God and a sauiour : there is none beside me . 22. Looke vnto me , and ye shall be saued . all the ends of the earth shall be saued : for I am God , and there is none other .

Isaias . 46.9 . I am God , and there is none other God , and there is nothing like me .

Ierem . 17.5 . Thus saith the Lord , Cursed be the man that trusteth in man , and maketh flesh his arme , and withdraweth his heart from the Lord .

Ioell . 2.27 . I am the Lord your God , and none other . &c.

Malach . 2.10 . Haue we not all one father ? hath not one God made vs ?

Math . 4 10. Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God , and him onely shalt thou serue .

Act. 10.25 . And it came to passe as Peter came in , that Cornelius met him , and fell downe at his feete , & worshipped him . 26. But Peter tooke him vp , saying , stand vp for euen I my selfe am a man .

1. Cor . 8.4 . We know that an idoll is nothing in the world , and that there is none other God but one . 5. For though there be that are called Gods , whether in heauen , or in earth , &c. 6. Yet vnto vs there is but one God , which is the father , of whom are all thinges , and we in him &c.

Eph. 4.6 . One God and father of all , which is aboue all , and through all , and in you all .

1. Timoth 1.17 . Now vnto the king euerlasting , immortall , inuisible , vnto God onely wise , be honour ▪ and glory for euer and euer , Amen .

1. Timoth . 2.5 . For there is one God , and one mediatour betweene God and man , which is the man Christ Iesus .

Apoc . 19.10 . & 22.8.9 . And I fell before his feete to worship him : but he said vnto me , See thou do it not : I am thy fellow seruaunt , and one of thy brethren , which haue the testimonie of Iesus . Worship God : for the testimonie of Iesus , is the spirit of prophesie ,

Deut . 6.5 . And thou shalt loue the Lord thy God , with all thine heart , and with all thy soule , & with all thy might .

This commaundement hath two pointes : the one is , that we acknowledg him to be the true God , which is called the Lord , the eternall , and which deliuered by his seruant Moses the children of Israell , from the bondage and captiuity of Egipt , and afterward the whole Church by his Sonne Iesus Christ , from the tyrannie of Satan , sinne , and death . But to acknowledge him for God , it is not onelie to say and confesse with mouth , that there is one God , and that it is he , which hath created all thinges , and is so often preached and declared in the scriptures ( for the deuill doeth well confesse the same , and doeth tremble , ) but it is to loue him with all our heart , with all our minde , with all our soule , and with all our force and strength : to call vpon him , to honour him , to feare him , to serue him , and to put our whole trust and confidence in him . The other point is , that we acknowledg none other God but him alone : for euerie thing else what so euer it be , if it be adored and worshipped as God , it is a straunge and false God : and we worshipping it are idolaters , forasmuch as in place of God , we worship an Idoll . First of all by this commaundement are the Paganes and heathenish men condemned , which haue forged a great multitude of Goddes . Albeit they did no whit at all doubt but that this same was the greatest and chiefest . The Papistes also are condemned , which do worship and call vpon Sainctes : for there is no difference betweene their religion , and this of the Pagans , but onelie that they haue chaunged the names of the Idolles , giuing them the names and titles of Angels , of the virgin Mary , of S. Peter , of S. Iames , and of others : the Pagans vse the names of Iupiter , Mars , Neptunus , Iuno , Venus , &c. Also all those which esteeme of him after their owne fantasie , and not as he is manifested in the word , as those which confound the three persons in Trinitie , those which doubt of his might & power , or denieth his prouidence : al those which seeke other meanes of aide & succours , then those which God hath giuen vnto vs , as well all sorcerers , and witches , necromancers , which by sorcerie , witchcraft , and inuocation of deuilles , would see to theyr owne affaires . Before me . this is added for to condemne the Idolatrie of the hart : for although one outwardlie shew no signe but of pietie and Godlinesse , so it is notwithstanding that for the most part , idolatrie is hidde close in the heart . Wherfore God will not measure his seruice by the face of man , which seeth but the outward appearance , but he keepeth that vnto him selfe , forasmuch as he seeth the outward part of a man , and straightwaies also soundeth the inward thoughtes of his heart .

THE SECOND COMmaundement .

Thou shalt not make to thy selfe , any grauen image , nor the lickenes of any thing that is in heauen aboue , or in the earth beneath , or in the water vnder the earth . Thou shalt not bow down to them , nor worship them &c.

Leuit. 26. Ye shall make you , none Idoles nor grauen Image , neither reare you vp any piller , neither shall ye set any Image of stone in your land to bow downe to it , for I am the Lord your God .

Deut . 4.15 . Take therefore good heed vnto your selues : for ye saw no Image in the day that the Lorde spake vnto you in Horeb , out of the middes of the fire . 16. That ye corrupt not your selues , and make you a grauen Image or representation of any figure : whether it be the lickenes of male or female . 23. Take heede vnto your selues , lest ye forget the couenaunt of the Lorde your God , which he made with you , and lest ye make you any grauen Image , or lickenes of any thing , as the Lord thy God hath charged thee . 24. For thy Lord thy God is a consuming fire , and a ielous God . 25. When thou shalt beget children and childrens children , and shalt haue remained longe in the lande , if ye corrupt your selues , and make any grauen Image , or likenes of any thing , and worke euill in the sight of the Lord thy God , to prouoke him to anger . 26. I call heauen and earth to record against you this day , that ye shall shortly perish from the land . 27. And the Lord shall scatter you among the people , &c.

Deut . 7.5 . Ye shall ouerthrow their altars , and breake downe their pillers , and ye shall cut downe their groues , and burne their grauen Images with fire . 6. For thou art an holy people vnto the Lord thy God , the Lord thy God hath chosen thee , to be a precious people vn - him selfe , aboue all people that are vpon the earth .

Deut . 11.16 . But beware lest your heart deceiue you , and lest you turne aside , and serue other Gods , and worship them .

Deut . 27 , 15. Curssed be the man that shall make any carued or molten Image , which is an abomination vnto the Lord , the worke of the handes of the craftesman , and putteth it in a secrete place : And all the people shall aunswere and say , So be it .

Ioshua . 24.14 . Now therefore feare the Lord & serue him in vprightnesse , and in truth , and put away the Gods which our fathers serued beyond the flood and in Egypt , and serue ye the Lord .

2. King . 18.4 . Ezechias king of Iudah , tooke away the high places , and brake the Images , and cut downe the groues , and brake in peeces the brasen serpent that Moses had made : for vnto those dayes the children of Israell did burne incense to it , and he called it Nehushtan .

Psal 97.7 . Confounded be all they that serue grauen Images , and that glorie in Idoles : worship him all ye Gods .

Psal . 115.4 . Their Idoles are siluer and gold , euen the worke of mens hands . 5. They haue mouthes and speake not , they haue eyes and see not . 6. They haue eares and heare not : they haue noses and smell not . 7. They haue hands and touch not : they haue feete and walke not : neither make they a sounde with their throte . 8. They that make them are like vnto them : so are all that trust in them .

Isaias . 40.18 . To whom then will ye liken God ? or what similitude will ye set vp vnto him ? 19. The workman melteth an Image , or the goldsmith beateth it out in gold , or the goldsmith maketh siluer plates . 25. To whom now will ye liken me , that I should be like him , saith the holy one ?

Isaias . 42.8 . I am the Lord , this is my name , and my glorie will I not giue to an other , neither my praise to grauen Images .

Isai . 46.5 . To whom will ye make me like , or make me equal , or compare me , that I should be like him ? 6. They draw gold , out of the bagge and weigh siluer in the balance , and hyre a goldsmith to make a god of it , and they bowe downe and worship it . 7. They beare it vpon the shoulders : they carrie him and set him in his place : so doth he stand and can not remoue from his place , though one crie vnto him , yet can he not answere , nor deliuer him out of his tribulation . 8. Remember this & be ashamed bring it againe to minde , O ye transgressers . 9. Remember the former thinges of olde : For I am God , and there is none other God , and there is nothing like me .

Ierem . 10.3 . The customes of the people are vaine : for one cutteth a tree out of the forest ( which is the worke of the handes of the carpenter ) with the axe . 4. And another decketh it with siluer , and with gold : they fasten it with hammers , that it fall not . 5. The Idoles stand vp as the palme tree , but speake not : they are borne because they can not go : feare them not , for they can not doe euill , neither can they do good .

Habakkuk . 2.18 . What profiteth the Image ? for the maker thereof hath made it an Image , and a teacher of lyes , though he that made it trust therein , when he maketh dumme Idoles . 19. Wo vnto him that saith vnto the wood , awake , and to the dumme stone , rise vp , it shall teach thee : beholde it is laide ouer with gold and siluer , and there in no breath in it .

Act. 17.29 . For as much then , as we are the generation of God , we ought not to thinke , that the Godhead is like vnto , gold or siluer , or stone grauen by art , and the inuention of man .

Rom. 1.22 . When they professed them selues to be wise , they became fooles 23. For they tourned the glorie of the incorruptible God to the similitude of the Image of a corruptible man , and of birdes , and foure footed beastes , and of creeping thinges . 24. Wherefore also God gaue them vp to their hearts lusts , vnto vncleannes , to defile their owne bodies betweene themselues . 25. Which tourned the truth of God vnto a lie , & worshipped and serued the creature , forsaking the creator , which is blessed for euer , Amen . 26. For this cause God gaue them vp vnto vile affections .

1. Corinth . 8 4. Concerning therefore meate sacrificed vnto Idoles , we know that an Idole , is nothing in the worlde , and that there is none other God but : one .

1. Corinth . 10.7 . Neither be ye Idolaters as were some of them , as it is written . The people sat downe to eate and drinke , and rose vp to plaie . 14. Wherefore my beloued flie from Idolatrie .

2. Cor . 6.16 . And what agreement hath the temple of God with Idoles : for ye are the temple of the liuing God : as God hath saide , &c.

1. Iohn . 5.21 . Babes keepe your selues from Idoles , Amen .

This commaundement containeth two points : the one is that God will not be represented by any Image or likenes , whither it be of golde or of siluer , of stone or of wood : whether of Angell or man , or of any beast : whether of the sunne or of the moone , or of a starre , or of other Planets . To be short he will not be represented bodely in any sort what soeuer , and expressely defendeth it with horrible threates and menaces . For seeing he is incomprehensible , it is great temeritie and foolehardines to seeme to comprehend by our senses his greatnes : seeing he is infinite , to goe about to shut vp his maiestie , within the compasse of a stocke or stone ▪ sith he is inuisible , to subiect his glorie to our eyes : sith he is spirituall , to giue vnto his substaunce an earthly bodie : sith he is immortall , to make him semblable to a dead blocke , sith he is incorruptible , to present him by thinges that putrifie and perish . The other point is not to worship any Image in waie and manner of religion , not to prostrate them selues before them , to do them any honour , seruice , obedience , and much lesse to call vpon them . Wherefore all those are here condemned , which do kneele down before them , which do speake vnto them , which do tourne their face toward them in praying , which doe kisse them , which doe them reuerence , which stand bareheaded before them , which do giue vnto them faire and costly ornamentes , and do carie vnto them candles .

For I the Lorde thy God , which am a iealous God , which doe visite the sinnes of the fathers vpon the children , vnto the thirde and fourth generation , of them that hate me , and shewe mercie vnto thousandes , in them that loue me , and keepe my commaundementes .

Exod 33.6 . So the children of Israell laid their good raiment from them , after Moses came downe from his mount Horeb . 7. Then Moses tooke the tabernacle , and pitched it without the host , farre of from the host , and called it Ohel-moed . And when any did seeke vnto the Lord , he went out vnto the Tabernacle of the congregation , which was without the host .

Numb . 14.18 . The Lord is slow to anger , and of great mercie , and forgiuing iniquitie , and sinnes : but not making the wicked innocent , and visiting the wickednesse of the fathers vpon the children , in the third and fourth generation .

Isai . 39.7 . Isaias menacing the king Ezechias , saith vnto him . And they shall take of thy sonnes , that shall proceede out of thee , and which thou shalt beget , shall they take away and they shal be eunuches in the palace of the king of Babell .

Ierem . 32.18 . Thou shewest mercie vnto thousandes : and recompensest the iniquitie of the fathers , into the bosome of their children after them : O God the great and mightie whose name is the Lord of hoste .

He addeth an horrible menacing and threate , to the ende that one thinke it not a light sinne to transgresse this commaundement . And when he termeth himselfe gelous , he sheweth in what estimation he hath his honour , for it is , euen with God as it is with the husband toward the wife , whom he can not suffer to be beloued of any other , also God can not suffer his honour not onely to be giuen to an other , but also to be giuen vnto him selfe otherwise then he will , and hath ordained . As touching that God doth punish the iniquitie and sinnes of the fathers in their children , it must not be taken so , as though that God did punish in the innocent children the sinnes of others : for God himselfe repells that in Ezechiell . chap. 18. But for as much as the children are alreadie euen of themselues & of their owne nature accursed , God being prouoked of the father and mother abandoneth and forsaketh them , leauing them in their proper nature , that in following the way of their fathers , they may feele the wrath and vengeance of God , not only for the sinnes of their fathers , but also for their owne .

THE THIRD COMmaundement .

Thou shalt not take the name of the Lorde thy God in vaine .

Leui . 19.12 . Also ye shall not sweare by my name falsely , neither shalt thou defile the name of thy God , I am the Lord .

Leuit. 22 32. Neither shall ye pollute mine holy name , but I will be halowed among the children of Israell . I the Lord sanctifie you .

Iam . 5.12 . But before all thinges , my brethren , sweare not , neither by heauen , nor by earth , nor by any other oth : but let your yea , be yea , and your nay , nay , lest ye fall into condemnation .

Mat . 5.33 . Againe ye haue heard that it was said to them of old time , thou shalt not forsweare thy selfe , but shalt perfourme thine othes to the Lord . 34. But I say vnto you , sweare not at all , neither by heauen , for it is the throne of God . 35. Nor yet by earth : for it is his footestoole : neither by Ierusalem : for it is the citie of the great king . 36. Neither shalt thou sweare by thine head , because thou canst not make one heare white or blacke . 37. But let your communication be , yea , yea : nay , nay . For whatsoeuer is more then these , commeth of euill .

Mat . 6.9 . Halowed be thy name .

2. Cor . 1.18 . Yea , God is faithfull , that our word toward you , was not yea , and nay . 19. For the Sonne of God Iesus Christ who was preached among you by vs , that is , by me , and Siluanus , and Timotheus , was not yea , and nay : but in him it was yea . 20. For all the promises of God , in him are yea , and are in him Amen , vnto the glorie of God thorough vs.

2. Cor . 2.17 . For we are not as many , which make marchandise of the word of God : but as of sinceritie , but as of God in the sight of God speake we in Christ .

2. Cor . 4.2 . But haue cast from vs the clokes of shame , and walke not in craftinesse , neither handle we the word of God deceiptfully : but in the declaration of the truth we approue our selues to euerie mannes conscience in the sight of God .

Colloss . 4.6 . Let your speach be gracious alwaies , & powdred with salt , that ye may knowe how to aunswere euerie man .

2. Timothy . 2.25 . Instructing them with meekenesse , that are contrarie minded , prouing if God at any time will giue them repentaunce , that they may know the truth .

2. Timoth . 3.8 . And as Iannes and Iambres withstood Moses , so doe these also resist the truth : men of corrupt mindes , reprobate concerning the faith .

Titus . 1.11 . Whose mouthes must be stopped , which subuert whole houses , teaching thinges which they ought not , for filthy lucres sake .

1. Pet . 4.11 . If any man speake , let him talke as the wordes of God . If any man minister , let him do it , as of the ability which God ministreth , that God in all thinges may be glorified through Iesus Christ , to whom is praise and dominion for euer and euer Amen .

OF A LAWFVLL OTH .

Deutero . 6.13 . Thou shalt feare the Lord thy God and serue him , and shalt sweare by his name .

Deuter . 10.20 . Thou shalt feare the Lord thy God : thou shalt serue him , and thou shalt cleaue vnto him , and shalt sweare by his name .

Psal . 15.4 . He that sweareth to his owne hinderaunce and chaungeth not .

Psalm . 63.11 . But the King shall reioyce in God , & all that sweare by him , shall reioyce in him : for the mouth of them that speake lies shall be stopped .

Isaias . 45.23 . I haue sworne by my selfe : the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousnesse , and shall not returne , That euerie knee shall bowe vnto me , and euery tongue shall sweare by me .

Rom. 1.9 . For God is my witnesse ( whom I serue in my spirit in the Gospell of his Sonne ) that without ceassing I make mention of you . &c ,

The name of God , is God himselfe , with his maiestie , and his vertues , as his power , force , wisedome , righteousnesse , iustice , fauour , truth , mercie , goodnesse . &c. Now it is taken in vaine diuers waies as in contemning it , and imploying it to euill vses , in speaking of his workes lightly , without reuerence , and humilitie , or falselie and not in truth , & he which referreth not all that is spoken to the glorie of God , and to the edification of the hearers . And aboue all in swearing temerouslie , and for the confirming of a lie and vntruth . The which thinges are an abhomination before God , as sufficientlie declareth the threate and menace which is added . Wherefore not onely those which sinne against this commaundement , doe oppose them selues against the workes of God , & resist the knowne truth : but also those which in time of affliction do murmure against him . Those also which doe call vpon him , that they may the better be fauoured in their dissolutenesse & wickednesse . Those which do abuse it to sorceries , witchcrafts , diuinations , drinks of loue , to songes and sonettes of whooredome , to bannes and curses ( as praying that God confound those which they hate ) to fables & such other like . Those which at euery word and rashly vse the name of God , and especially those which doe forsweare them selues . Those which persist in a wicked acte , because of a temerouse othe they make . Those that sweare by any other name thē by the name of God . But we must marke , that he doeth not simplie forbidde the vse of his name ( for we are commaunded to call vpon him , and to sweare by him ) but he onely defendeth the abuse which is said to take it in vaine .

THE FOVRTH COMmaundement .

Remember that thou keepe holy the sabaoth day , six daies shalt thou labour , and do all which thou hast to do , for the seuenth is the sabaoth of the Lord thy God . &c.

Gen. 2.3 . So God blessed the seuenth day , and sanctified it , because that in it he had rested from all his worke which God had created and made .

Exod . 31.13 . Speake then also vnto the children of Israell , and say , notwithstanding keepe ye my Sabaoth : for it is a signe betweene me and you , in your generations , that you may know that I the Lord do sanctifie you . 14. Ye shall therefore keepe the Sabaoth , for it is holy vnto you : he that defileth it , shall die the death : therfore whosoeuer worketh therein , the same person shall be euen cutte of from amonge his people . 15. Six dayes shall men worke , but in the seuenth day is the Sabaoth of the holy rest to the Lord : whosoeuer doeth any worke in the Sabbath day , shall die the death . 16. Wherfore the children of Israell shall keepe the Sabbath , that they , may obserue the rest throughout their generations for an euerlasting couenaunt . 17. It is a signe betweene me and the children of Israell for euer : for in sixe daies the Lord made the heauen & the earth , and in the seuenth day he ceased and rested .

Leuitie . 23.2 . Speake vnto the children of Israll , and say vnto them . The feastes of the Lord , which ye shall call the holy assemblies , euen these are my feasts . 3. Sixe dayes shall worke be done , but in the seuenth day shall be the Sabbath of rest , an holy conuocation : ye shall doe no worke therin , it is the Sabaoth of the Lord , in all your dwellinges .

Nomb 15.32 . And while the children of Israell were in the wildernesse , they found a man that gathered sti●kes vpon the Sabboth day . 36. And all the Congregation brought him without the host , and stoned him with stones , and he died , as the Lorde had commaunded Moses .

Isaias . 1.14 . My soule hateth your new moones and your appointed feast : they are a burden vnto me : I am weary to beare them .

The Prophet reprehendeth the carnall opinion , which the Iewes had of the Sabbath .

Ierem . 17.21 . Thus saith the Lord , take heede to your soules , and beare no burden in the Sabbath day , nor bring it in by the gates of Ierusalem . 22. Neither carie foorth burdens out of your houses in the Sabbath day : neither do ye any worke , but sanctifie the Sabbath , as I commaunded your fathers .

Ezec . 20.12 . Moreouer I gaue them also my Sabbath , to be a signe betweene me and them , that they might knowe that I am the Lord , that sanctifie them .

Ezec . 22.8 . Thou hast despised mine holy thinges , and hast polluted my Sabbath .

Ezech . 23.38 . Moreouer thus haue they done vnto me : they haue defiled my Sanctuarie in the same day , and haue prophaned my Sabbath .

OF THE DELIVEraunce from the Sabbath carnall and figuratiue .

Mat . 12.1 . At that time Iesus went on a Sabbath day through the corne , & his disciples were an hungred , and began to plucke the eares of corne and to eate . 2. And when the Pharises saw it , they said vnto him . Behold , thy disciples do that , which is not lawfull to doe vpon the Sabbath . 3. But he said vnto them , haue ye not read what Dauid did when he was an hungred , and they that were with him ? 4. How he entred into the house of God , and eate the shewe bread , which was not lawfull for him to eate , neither for them which were with him , but onely for the priests ? 5. Or haue ye not read in the Law , how that on the Sabbath day , the Priestes in the temple breake the Sabbath , & are blamelesse ? 6. But I say vnto you , that here is one greater then the temple . 7. Wherefore if ye knew what this is , I will haue mercie , & not sacrifice , ye would not haue condemned the innocentes . 8. For the Sonne of man is Lord euen of the Sabbath .

Marke . 2.27 . And he said to them , The Sabbath was made for man , and not man for the Sabbath . 18. Wherfore the Sonne of man is Lorde euen of the Sabbath .

G●lat . 4.10 . Ye obserue dayes , and monethes , and times , and yeares .

Colloss . 2.16 . Let no man therefore condemne you in meate and drinke , or in respect of an holy day , or of the new moone , or of the Sabbath daies . 17. Which are but a shadow of thinges to come : but the bodie is in Christ .

THE SPIRITVALL AND perpetuall Sabbath .

Isaias . 56.2 . Blessed is the man that doeth this , and the sonne of man , which layeth holde on it : he that keepeth the Sabbath and polluteth it not , and kepeth his hand from doing any euill .

Isaias . 58.13 . If thou tourne away thy foote from the Sabbath , from doing thy will on my holy day , & call the Sabbath a delight , to consecrate it , as glorious to the Lord , and shalt honour him , not doing thine owne wayes , nor seeking thine owne will , nor speaking a vaine word .

Isaias . 66.23 . And from moneth to moneth , and from Sabbath to Sabbath , shall all flesh come to worship before me saith the Lord .

Hebr . 4.3 . For we which haue beleeued , do enter into rest , as he sayd to the other , As I haue sworne in my wrath , if they shall enter into my rest , although their workes were finished from the foundation of the world . 11. Let vs studie therefore to enter into that rest , lest any man fall after the same ensample of disobedience .

The Sabbath had three ends , for the which it was fist ordained . The one was to be a figure and tipe of our spirituall rest , which consisteth in the continuall mortifiyng of our flesh & corrupt nature , & in the regeneration of newenesse of life For it shewed vnto vs , that we ought to cease from our workes , that is to say , to renounce & forsake our selues , that the spirit of God might worke in vs , gouerning vs , and in bringing foorth in vs new fruite of righteousnesse and holinesse . Wherefore the Sabbath , in as much as it was ordained of God to this end , did put the people in minde of their pouertie and miserie , to wit , that all that was in them was wicked and naught , wherefore we should ceasse from all our wicked affections and concupiscences , and seeke in God all holynesse . The other end was , that the people might haue a day , in the which they might come together to heare the Law , to do those sacrifices which were ordained , to keepe the other ceremonies , to partake in publique praiers , and for to excercise charitie . The third end was to ease the seruauntes , and labourers , and aboue all especiallie those which are vnder other mens subiection . But albeit the Sabbath be abolished concerning the ceremony , notwithstandinge the substance remayneth , which is to haue a certaine day , to assemble them selues to heare sermons , to make publike prayers , and to celebrate the sacred Sacramentes of the Lorde . For although we are not bound any more to such an outward obseruation as were the Iewes , notwithstandinge the spirituall rest ought of vs diligentlie to be obserued : that is to say , that we ought to renounce all the wicked desires of our flesh , that we may be led and conducted by the spirit of God . &c.

OF LABOVR .

Gene . 3.19 . In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eate bread , till thou returne to the earth : for out of it wast thou taken , because thou art dust , and to dust shalt thou retourne .

Iob . 5.7 . But man is borne to trauell , as the sparkes flie vpward .

Psal . 128.2 . When thou eatest the laboures of thine handes , thou shalt be blessed , and it shall be well with thee .

Prouerb . 6.6 . Go to the pismeere , O sluggard : behold her wayes , and be wise .

Prouerb . 12.11 . He that tilleth his land , shall be satisfied with bread , but he that followeth the idle , is destitute of vnderstanding .

Prouerb . 23.4 , Trauell not to much to be rich : but cease from thy wisedom .

Act. 20.34 . Yea , ye know that these handes haue ministred vnto my necessities , and to them that were with me .

1. Cor . 4.12 . And labour , workinge with our owne handes . &c.

Eph. 4.28 . Let him that stole , steale no more : but let him rather labour , and worke with his handes the thing which is good , that he may haue to giue vnto him that needeth .

1. Thess. 4.11 . And that ye study to be quiet , and to meddle with your owne businesse , and to worke with your owne handes , as we commanded you . 12. That ye may behaue your selues honestly , toward them that are without , and that nothing be lacking vnto you .

2. Thess. 3.6 . We commaund you , brethren , in the name of our Lord Iesus Christ , that ye withdrawe your selues from euery brother that walketh inordinatelie , and not after the instruction , which ye receaued of vs. 7. For ye your selues know how ye ought to follow vs : for we behaued not our selues inordinatelie among you . 8. Neither tooke we bread of any man for naught : but we wrought with labour and trauell night & day , because we would not be chargeable vnto any of you . 9. Not but that we had authoritie , but that we might make ourselues an ensample vnto you to follow vs. 10. For euen when we were with you , this we warned you of , that if there were any , which would not worke , that he should not eate ,

Although that God giueth not this commaundement properlie to cause vs to trauaile sixe daies in the weeke ( euen as he defendeth not the labour on the seuenth day as vnlawfull and wicked , but rather to keepe that day for him selfe ) notwithstanding it is conuenient that we keepe the ordinaunce , which he from the beginning gaue to Adam , that is , that he should eate his bread in trauell , and in the sweat of his browes , not all alike after one sort , but euerie one according to his estate . Wherefore the idle , vnprofitable , naught-doers , vagaboundes , and other flow-bellies , which in other places are expresslie condemned , are here couertly noted .

THE FIFT COMMAVNdement .

Honour thy father and thy mother . &c.

Looke the places aboue in the creede , after the article , The holie Catholike Church .

Father and Mother , are taken here in this place in a more ample and large fignification then in the vulgare tongue . For generallie it is taken for all superioritie and power which God hath constituted and set ouer vs : forasmuch as according to their office and estate they ought to be vnto vs fathers , that is to say , they ought to haue a care of those which are committed to their charge , as of their own children . Our fathers then are those which haue first begotten vs. Secondarily the ministers and pastours of the Church , which haue charge to minister vnto vs the word of God , and holy Sacraments . The teachers & masters of schooles Thirdly all magistrates , as Kinges , Princes , great Lordes , and all those to whom it appertaineth to minister vnto vs iustice , to maintaine the good in peace and tranquillitie , and to represse the audacity of the wicked . Fourthlie , all Tutours and Ouerseers , which haue the charge of pupils , to guide & gouerne them , as their owne childrden . Fiftly , the Maisters are as fathers to their seruauntes , forasmuch as besides the maintenaunce and wages they owe them , they ought to instruct thē in the feare of God . Lastelie , the auncient and aged , forasmuch as they ought to be vnto vs as guides and leaders not onely by their ensample of good maners , but also by their good counsell & aduice . Honour , also doth not signifie onely an exteriour and outward reuerence : but also obedience and loue . Wherefore to honour father & mother , is not onelie to speake vnto them with cappe in hand , and making a legge : but to feare them , to esteeme of them , to reuerence them , to beare with them , not to make them sadde and sorow , not to speake euill of them , not to sclaunder them , not to mock them or scoffe them , but reuerently to speake vnto them , not to cu●se them or banne them , but to wish them all prosperitie and health . Moreouer to obey thē in all things , which are not contrary to God and his commaundementes . Thirdelie , to cherish and nourish them if they haue neede , and to help and succour them in all their necessities . This is that which they owe to father and mother .

That thy dayes may be long vpon the earth which the Lorde thy God hath giuen thee .

Eph. 6.2 . Honour thy father & mother ( which is the fi●st commaundement with promise ) 3. That it may be well with thee , and that thou maist liue long on earth .

S. Paule giueth vs the plaine vnderstanding of this place , saying there are promised vnto vs two thinges , prosperitie , and long life . And albeit that it oftentymes falleth out otherwise , to wit , that those which are obedient to father and mother , die euen in the floure of their age : and contrariwise , that those which are rebellious and stoubborne , liue longe and that in ioy and prosperitie : notwithstanding the promise is neuer the lesse true . For first of all God sheweth not that which shall befall ech one , but that which ordinariely commeth to passe . Moreouer , God for a good cause and for the profit of his children , doth chaung this blessing into a farre better , to wit this temporall life into euerlasting and eternall life . By this meanes also he woulde proue the faith and patience of fathers and mothers . Contrariewise the vengeance of God on the rebellious is deferred , either to giue them a time of repentaunce , or to chaung it into a farre worse , to wit , at the last to make them to perish after some shamefull and ignominious facion : sometimes for the iust punishment of the fathers and mothers , or of all the whole race : either to afflict and trouble the whole common weale , or for some other causes vnknowen and hid vnto vs.

THE SIXT COMmaundement .

Thou shalt not kill

Genes . 9.6 . Who so sheadeth mans blo●d , by man shall his blood be shed : for in the image of God hath he made man .

Exod . 21.12 . He that smiteth man and he die , shall die the death .

Leuit. 19.17 . Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thyne heart , but thou shalt plainely rebuke thy neighbour , and suffer him not to sinne . 18. Thou shalt not avenge , nor be mindefull of wronge , against the children of thy people , but shalt loue thy neighbour as thy selfe , I am the Lord .

Leuit. 24.17 . He also that killeth anie man , he shall be put to death .

Deut . 32.35 . Hebr . 10.30 . Vengeance and recompence are mine saith the Lord .

Prouerb . 6.16 . These sixe thinges doth the Lorde hate , yea his soule abhorreth seuen . 17. The hautie eyes , a lying tongue , and the handes that sheede innocent blood . 18. An heart that imagineth wicked enterprises , feete that be swift in running to mischiefe . 19. A false witnesse that speaketh lies , and him that raiseth vp contentions among breathren .

Prouerb . 10.12 . Hatred stirreth vp contentions : but loue couereth all trespasses .

Prouerb . 17.11 . A sedicious person seeketh onely euill , and a cruell messenger shal be sent against him . 13. He that rewardeth euill for good , euill shall not depart from his house .

Prouerb . 20.22 . Saie not thou , I will recompence euill , but waite vpon the Lorde , and he shall saue thee .

Rom. 12.19 . Dearely beloued , auenge not your selues , but giue place vnto wrath : for it is written , vengeaunce is mine : I will repay saith the Lorde . 20. Therefore , if thine enemie hunger , feede him : if he thirst giue him drinke . for in so doing , thou shalt heape coales of fire on his head . 21. Be not ouercome of euill , but ouercome euill , with goodnesse .

Ephes . 4.26 . Be angrie , but sinne not : let not the sunne goe downe vpon your wrath . 31. Let all bitternesse , and anger , and wrath , crying and euill speaking be put away from you , with all maliciousnes 32. Be ye courteous one to an other , and tender hearted , forgiuing one another , euen as God for Christ sake forgaue you .

Col. 3.12 . Now therefore as the elect of God , holie & beloued , put one tender mercie , kindnes , humblenes of minde , meekenes , long suffring : 13. Forbeareing one another , if any man haue a quarell to another , euen as Christ forgaue , euen so do ye . 14. And aboue all these thinges put one loue , which is the bonde of perfectnes . 15. And let the peace of God rule in your heartes , to the which ye are called in one bodie , and be amiable .

1. Thes . 5.15 . See that none recompense euill for euill vnto any man : but euer follow that which is good , both toward your selues , and toward all men .

1. Iohn . 3.15 . Whosouer hateth his brother , is a manslayer , and ye know that no manslayer hath eternall life abiding in him .

THE EXPOSITION OF this commaundement

Matth . 5.21 . Ye haue heard that it was saide vnto them of the olde time , Thou shalt not kill : for whosoeuer killeth shal be culpable of iudgement . 22. But I saie vnto you , whosoeuer is angrie with his brother vnaduisedly , shal be culpable of iudgement . And whosoeuer saith vnto his brother Raca , shal be worthy to be punished by the counsell . And whosoeuer shall saie , foole , shal be worthie to be punished with hell fire . 23. Yf then thou bring thy gift to the alter , and there remembrest that thy brother hath ought against thee . 24. Leaue there thine offring before the altar , and goe thy waie : first be reconciled to thy brother and then come and offer thy gift . 25. Agree with thine aduersarie quickely , whiles thou art in the way with him , least thine aduersarie deliuer thee to the iudge , and the iudge deliuer thee to the sergeant , and thou be cast into prison . 26. Verelie I saie vnto thee , thou shalt not come out thence , till thou hast paied the vtmost farthing . 39. But I saie vnto you , resist not euill : but whosoeuer shall smite thee on thy right cheeke , turne to him the other also . 40. And if any man will sue thee at the Law , and take away thy coat , let him haue thy cloke also . 41. And Whosoeuer will compell thee to go a mile , go with him twaine , &c. 43. Loue your enemies , blesse them that curse you : do good to them that hate you , and praie for them which hurte you , and persecute you . 45. That ye may be the children of your father that is in heauen : for he maketh his sunne to arise on the euill , and on the good , and sendeth raine on the iust , and vniust .

By the exposition which the Lord giueth , we see that outward murder is not onelie forbidden , but also all hurte and domage , that we may bring to our neighbour , as well to his bodie and life , as landes and liuings : & that whether it be by our owne selues , or by others , whether it be openlie , or secretly . Moreouer , all wrong , iniurie , & cursing . Thirdly all contempt , despite & disdaine which is shewed by word , or any exteriour signe and token . Fourthly , we must passe farther , euen to the verie harte : for the verie fountaine and roote of murder , that is to saie anger , choler , rancor , hatred , malice and all affection contrarie to brotherlie loue and charitie . Againe thus it is , that it is not sufficient , not to kill , not to strike , not to wronge , not to hate any : but we must also loue and doe good euen to our enemies , which shall hate and harme vs , which shall spoyle and persecute vs. And thus farre doth this commaundement reach and extend it selfe .

THE SEVENTH COMaundement .

Thou shalt not commit adulterie .

Leuit. 19.29 . Thou shalt not make thy daughter common , to cause her to be a whore , lest the land also fall to whoredome , and the land be full of wickednes .

God commaundeth generally all fathers and mothers , to keepe their daughters in chastitie and puritie .

Leuit , 20.10 . And the man that committeth adulterie with an other mans wife , because he hath committed adultery with his neighbours wife , the adulterer and the adulteresse shall die the death .

Deut . 22.25 . But if a man finde a betrothed maide in the field , and force her , and lie with her , then the man that lay with her , shall die alone .

Deut . 23.17 . There shall be no whore of the daughters of Israell , neither shall there be a whore-keeper of the sonnes of Israell .

Iob . 31.1 . I made a couenaunt with mine eyes : why then should I thinke on a maide ?

Prouerb . 2.16 . And it shall deliuer thee from the straunge woman , euen from the stranger , which flattereth with her wordes . 17. Which forsaketh the guide of her youth , and forgetteth the couenant of her God .

Prouerb . 6.32 . But he that committeth adulterie with a woman , is destitute of vnderstanding : he that doeth it , destroyeth his owne soule . 33. He shall finde a wound and dishonour , & his reproch shall neuer be put away .

Malach . 2.14 . The Lord hath bene witnesse betweene thee and thy wife of thy youth , against whom thou hast transgressed : yet is shee thy companion , and the wife of thy couenaunt . 15. And did not he make one ? yet had he abundance of spirit : and wherefore one ? because he sought a godlie seede : therefore keepe yourselues in your spirit , and let none trespasse against the wife of his youth . 16. If thou hatest her , put her away , saith the Lord God of Israell , yet he couereth the iniurie vnder his garment , saith the Lord of hostes : therefore keepe your selues in your spirit , and transgresse not .

Math . 5.31 . and 19.9 . I say therefore vnto you , that whosoeuer shall put away his wife , except it be for whoredome , and marrie another , committeth adulterie : and whosoeuer marrieth her which is diuorced , doeth commit adulterie .

Mat . 19.8 . Rom. 13.9 . Thou shalt not commit adulterie .

Actes . 15.29 . That ye abstaine from thinges offred to idoles , and bloud , and that , that is strangled , and from fornication : from which if ye keepe your selues , ye shall do well .

Rom. 13.13 . So that wee walke honestly , as in the day : not in glotony , and drunkennesse , neither in chambering & wantonnesse , nor in strife and enuying . 1. Cor . 5.11 . If any that is called a brother , be a fornicatour , or couetous , or an Idolater , or a railer , or a drunkard , or an extorcioner , with such one eate not .

1. Corinth . 6.9 . Know ye not that the vnrighteous shall not inherit the kingdome of God ? be not deceaued : neither fornicatours , nor Idolaters , nor adulterers , nor wantons , nor buggerers , 10. Nor theeues , nor couetous , nor d●unkardes , nor railers , nor extorcioners shall inherit the kingedome of God . 16. Do ye not know , that he which coupleth him selfe with an harlot , is one bodie ? for two saith he , shall be one flesh . 17. But he that is ioyned vnto the Lord , is one spirit . 18. Flie fornication : euerie sinne that a man doeth is without the bodie : but he that committeth fornication , sinneth against his owne bodie . 19. Know ye not , that your bodie is the temple of the holy Ghost , which is in you , whom ye haue of God ? and ye are not your owne . 20. For ye are bought for a price : therefore glorifie God in your bodie , and in your spirit : for ye are Gods .

1. Cor . 10.8 . Neither let vs commit fornication , as some of them committed fornication , and fell in one day three and twentie thousand .

Ephes . 5.3 . But fornication , and all vncleannesse or couetousnesse , let it not be once named among you , as it becommeth Sainctes . 4. Neither filthinesse , neither foolish talking , neither iesting , which are thinges not cornelie , but rather giuinge of thankes . 5. For this ye know , that no whoremonger , neither vncleane person , nor couetous person , which is an Idolater , hath any inheritaunce in the kingedome of Christ , and of God .

Colloss . 3.5 . Mortifie therefore your members which are on the earth , fornication , vncleannesse , the inordinate affection , euill concupiscence , and couetousnesse , which is idolatrie .

1. Thess. 4.3 . For it is the will of God euen your sanctification , and that ye should abstaine from fornication . 4. That euerie one of you should know , how to possesse his vessell in holinesse and honour . 5. And not in the lust of concupiscence , euen as the Gentiles which know not God . 7. For God hath not called vs vnto vncleannesse , but vnto holinesse .

OF MARIAGE .

Genes . 2.24 . Ephes . 5.31 . For this cause shall a man leaue father and mother , and shall cleaue to his wife , and they two shall be one flesh .

Albeit the pietie of the childe toward the father ought aboue all to be kept and reputed inuiolable , notwithstanding Moses sheweth , that mariage doeth passe it , so that it is lesse lawfull to leaue his wife , then either father or mother ,

1. Cor . 7.2 . Neuertheles , to auoide fornication , let euerie man haue his wife , & let euery woman haue her owne husband . &c.

Looke the rest aboue fol. 57. & 58.

Hebr . 13.4 . Mariage is honorable among all , and the bed vndefiled : but whoremongers and adulterers God will iudge .

THE EXPOSITION OF this commaundement .

Math . 5.27 . Ye haue heard that it was said vnto them of old time . Thou shalt not commit adulterie . But I say vnto you , that whosoeuer looketh on a woman to lust after her , hath committed adultery with her alreadie in his heart . 29. Wherefore if thy right eye cause thee to offend , plucke it out , and cast it from thee : for better it is for thee , that one of thy members perish , then that thy whole bodie should be cast into hell . 30. Also if thy right hand make thee to offend , cut it of and cast it from thee : for better it is for thee , that one of thy members perish , then that thy whole body should be cast into hell . 31. It hath bene said also , whosoeuer shall put away his wife , let him giue her a testimoniall of diuorcement . 32. But I say vnto you , whosoeuer shall put away his wife ( except it be for fornication ) causeth her to commit adulterie : & whosoeuer shall marrie her that is diuorced , committeth adulterie .

Vnder one kinde , the most detestable , to wit , adulterie , he forbiddeth all kinde of whoredome , as we may well vnderstand by the other places alleadged . And by the contrarie , he commaundeth all chastitie , and honestie , and aboue all the loyaltie & faithfulnesse of mariage . For euen as God is pure , & cleane , and can haue no coniunction with any thing polluted or prophaned , so he will also that we , ( that to him we may be ioyned , ) be not defiled with any filthinesse : but that our bodie and minde , that it may be his temple , be kept chaste and holie . Now , that also which was sayd of murder , ought also to be vnderstood of whoredome : to wit , that it doth not consist in the outward action onely : but also in the desires of the heart . Wherefore according to the commaundement , it is not enough not to committe the deede actually : but we must also plucke vp by the rootes , all euill cogitations and thoughts , and keepe our heart , our eyes , our handes , and all other partes of our bodie , that they be not contaminated with any vncleannes or defiled with any filthinesse .

THE EIGHT COMmaundement .

Thou shalt not steale .

Leuit. 19.11 . Ye shall not steale , neither denie that which ye owe , neither lie one to another .

These wordes denie and lie , doe signifie not onely to deceaue or beguile , but also to make frustrate the hope and expectation of any one .

13. Thou shalt not do thy neighbour wrong , neither rob him . The work-mans hire shall not abide with thee vntill the morning . 35. Ye shall not do vniustlie in iudgement , in line , in weight , or in measure . 36. You shall haue iust ballances , true weightes , a true Ephah , and a true Hin .

Deuteron . 19.14 Thou shalt not remoue thy neighbours marke , which they of olde time haue set in thine inheritaunce , that thou shalt inherit in the land , which the Lord thy God giueth thee to possesse it ,

Here is condemned another kinde of theft , when one would enlarge his liuinges to the detriment and domage of an other man .

Deut . 24.14 . Thou shalt not oppresse an hired seruaunt that is needie and poore , neither of thy brethren , nor of the straunger that is in thy land within thy gates . 15. Thou shalt giue him his hire for his day , neither shall the Sunne go downe vppon it : for he is poore , and therewith sustaineth his life : lest he crie against thee vnto the Lord , and it be sinne vnto thee .

Deuter . 15 , 13. Thou shalt not haue in thy bagge two maner of weightes , a great and a small . 14. Neither shalt thou haue in thine house , diuerse measures , a great and a small . 15. But thou shalt haue a right & iust weight , a perfect and iust measure shalt thou haue , that thy dayes may be lengthened in the land , which the Lord thy God giueth thee . 16. For all that do such thinges , and all those that do vnrighteously , are abhomination vnto the Lord thy God .

It is to withstand al suttle sleights , and wicked wayes to gaine goods ,

Iob . 24.2 . Some remoue the lande markes , and rob the flockes , and feede thereof . 4. They make the poore to turne out of the way , so that the poore of the earth hide them selues together . 5. Behold , others as wilde Asses in wildernesse , go foorth to their businesse , and rise early for a pray : the wildernes giueth him and his children foode . 6. They reape his prouision in the field , but they gather the late vintage of the wicked . 7. They cause the naked to lodg without garment , and without couering in the colde . 8. They are wet with the showers of the mountaynes , and they embrace the rockes for want of a ●ouering . 9. They plucke the fatherlesse from the breast , and take the pledge of the poore . 10. They cause him to goe naked without cloathing , and take the gleining from the hungrie .

Prouer . 11.1 . False ballances are an abhomination vnto the Lord : but a perfect weight pleaseth him .

Prouerb . 20.10 . Diuerse weightes , and diuerse measures , both these are euen abhomination vnto the Lord .

Prouer . 28.24 . He that robbeth his father and mother , and saith , it is no transgression , is the companion of a man that destroyeth .

Prouerb . 29.24 . He that is partner with a theefe , hateth his owne soule : he heareth cursing , and declareth it not .

Isaias . 1.23 . Thy Princes are rebelliouse and companions of theeues : euery one loueth giftes , and followeth after rewardes : they iudge not the fatherlesse , neither doeth the widowes cause come before them . 24. Therefore sayth the Lord God of hostes , the mightie one of Israell , Ah , I will ease me of mine aduersaries , and aduenge me of mine enemies .

Isaias . 10.1 . Wo vnto them that decree wicked decrees , and write grieuous thinges . 2. To keepe backe the poore from iudgement , and to take away the iudgement of the poore of my people , that widowes may be their pray , & that they may spoile the fatherlesse . 3. What will ye doe now in the day of visitation , and of destruction , which shall come from farre ? to whom will ye flie for helpe ? and where will ye leaue your glorie ? 4. Without me euerie one shall fall among them that are bound , and they shall fall downe amonge the slaine .

Amos . 8.4 . Heare this , O ye , that swallow vp the poore , that ye may make the needy of the land to faile . 5. Saying , when will the new moneth begin , that we may sell corne ? and the Sabbath , that we may set foorth wheat , and make the Ephah small , and the shekell great , and falsifie the weightes by deceipt ? 6. That we may buy the poore for siluer , and the needie for shoes , yea , and sell the refuse of the wheat . 7. The Lord hath sworne by the excellencie af Iaakob , Surely I will neuer forget any of their workes .

Mich . 6.10 . Are yet the treasures of wickednesse , in the house of the wicked , and the scant measure , that is abhominable ? 11. Shall I iustifie the wicked ballances , and the bagge of deceiptfull weightes ? 12. For the rich men thereof are full of crueltie , and the inhabitantes therof haue spoken lies , & their tongue is deceiptfull in their mouth . 13. Therefore also will I make thee sicke in smiting thee , and in making thee desolate , because of thy sinnes . 14. Thou shalt eate and not be satisfied , and thy casting downe , shall be in the midst of thee , and thou shalt take hold , but shalt not deliuer : and that whi●h thou deliuerest , will I giue vp to the sword . 15. Thou shalt sow , but not reape : thou shalt tread the oliues , but thou shalt not annoint thee with oyle , and make sweete wine , but shalt not drinke wine .

Luke . 3.14 The souldiers likewise demaunded of him , saying , And what shall we doe ? And he said vnto them , Do violence to no man , neither accuse anie falslie , and be content with your wages .

Eph. 4.28 . Let him that stole , steale no more : but let him rather labour , and worke with his handes the thing which is good , that he may haue to giue vnto him that needeth .

1. Thess. 4.6 . That no man oppresse or defraude his brother in any matter : for the Lord is a reuenger of all such thinges , as we also haue tolde you before times and testified .

OF ALMES-GIVING and liberalitie to the poore and needie .

Leuit. 19.9 . When ye reape the haruest of your land , ye shall not reape euerie corner of your field , neither shalt thou gather the glayninges of thy haruest .

Deut . 15.7 . If one of thy breathren with thee be poore within any of thy gates in thy land , which the Lord thy God giueth thee , thou shalt not harden thine heart , nor shut thine hand from thy poore brother . 8. But thou shalt open thine hand vnto him , and shalt lend him sufficient for his neede which he hath .

Psal . 112.5 . A good man is mercifull and lendeth , and will measure his affaires by iudgement . 9. He hath distributed and giuen to the poore : his righteousnes remaineth for euer : his horne shal be exalted with glorie .

Prouer . 3.9 . Honour the Lorde with thy riches , and with the first fruites of all thine increase .

Prouer . 28.27 . He that giueth vnto the poore , shall not lacke : but he that hideth his eyes , shall haue many curses .

Isaias . 58.7 . Is it not to deale thy breade to the hungrie , and that thou bring the poore that wander , vnto thine house ? when thou seest the naked , that thou couer him , and hide not thy selfe from thine owne flesh .

Theft is not only that , which the vulgar sort take it to be , but also all trafique and meanes , which they vse for to draw vnto themselues , the substance and goodes of their neighbours , whether it be by piracie , roberie : theft , or all other like pilling & polling : whether it be by fetches , fraude , force , fleights , futtletie , craft , cousenage , guile and deceite . Briefly & in summe , in what sorte soeuer we wittingly and willingly defraude & deceiue our neighbour that is theft : for to reherse all the kindes of theft would be to longe . Moreouer it is theft , if one doe not his dutie toward others according to his vocation , vnto the which he is called , as receiuers , proctors , artificers , fermers , solicitours , aduocates , and such like . And for as much as we are commaunded that we haue a mutuall care the one of the other , as members of one body : the inhumanitie of those which beare no fauour , which doe not helpe and succour those which stande in neede , when as they may , is very theft before God . Lastly that which was saide of murther & of adulterie , may here also haue place : to wit , that theft before God is not iudged onely by the outward action , but also by the inwarde desire and affection of the hearte . Wherefore God doth also iudge him a thiefe , which vnlawfully desireth to haue that which belongeth & appartaineth to his neighbour , although he bring not his dedesires to an effect , and accomplish his couetous affection .

THE NINTH COMmaundement .

Thou shalt not beare false witnesse against thy neighbour .

Exod . 23.1 . Thou shalt not receiue a false tale , neither shalt thou put thine hand with the wicked , to be a false witnesse . 2. Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do euill , neither agree in a controuersie , to decline after many and ouerthrow truth , &c 7. Thou shalt keepe thee farre from a false matter .

Deut . 19.16 . If a false witnesse rise vp against a man to accuse him of trespasse . 17. Then both the men which striue togeather , shall stand before the Lord , euen before the Priestes , and the Iudges , which shal be in those dayes . 18. And the Iudges shall make diligent inquisition : and if the witnesse be found false , and hath giuen false witnesse against his brother . 19. Then shall ye do vnto him , as he had thought to do vnto his brother : so thou shalt take euill away foorth of the middest of thee . 20. And the rest shall heare this , and feare , and shall henceforth commit no more any such wickednesse among you . 21. Therefore thine eye shall haue no compassion , but life for life , eye for eye , tooth for tooth , hand for hand , foote for foote .

Psal . 5.6 . Thou shalt destroie them that speake lies .

Psal . 12.2 . They speake deceitfully euerie one with his neighbour , flattering with their lippes , and speake with a double heart . 3. The Lord cut of all flattering lippes , and the tongue that speake proude thinges .

Psal . 15.2 . He that walketh vprightly and worketh righteousnes , and speaketh the truth in his heart . 3. He that slaundereth not with his tongue , nor doth euill to his neighbour , nor receiueth a false report against his neighbour .

Psal . 34.12 . 1. Peter . 3.10 . What man is he , that desireth life , and loueth long dayes for to see good 13. Keepe thy tongue from euill , and thy lippes : that they speake no guile .

Psal . 50.19 . Thou giuest thy mouth to euill , and with thy tongue thou forgest deceite .

Prouerb 6.16 . These six things doth the Lorde hate : yea , his soule abhorreth seuen . 17. The hautie eyes , a lying tongue , and the handes that sheede innocent blood . 18. An heart that imagineth wicked enterprises , feete that be swift in running to mischiefe . 19. A false witnesse that speaketh lies , and him that raiseth vp contention among breathren .

Prouerb . 12.17 . He that speaketh the truth , will shew righteousnes : but a false witnesse vseth dece●t .

Prou. 19.5 . A false witnesse shall not be vnpunished : and he that speaketh lyes shall not escape .

Prouerb . 24.9 . The scorner is abhomination vnto men .

Prou. 25.18 . The man that beareth false witnesse against his neighbour , is like an hammer , and a sword , & a sharp arrow .

Prouerb . 26.28 . A false tongue hateth the afflicted , and a flattering mouth causeth ruine .

Matth . 19.18 . Rom. 13.9 . Thou shalt not beare false witnesse .

Ephes . 4.25 . Wherefore cast of lying and speake euerie man the truth vnto his neighbour : for we are members one of another .

Iames . 4.11 . Speake not euill one of another , breathren , he that speaketh euill of his brother , or he that condemneth his brother , speaketh euill of the law , and condemneth the lawe : and if thou condemnest the law , thou art not an obseruer of the law , but a iudge . 12. There is one lawgiuer which is able to saue , and to destroy , who art thou that iudgest another man ?

1. Peter . 2.1 . Wherfore laying aside all maliciousnesse and all guile , and dissimulation , and enuie , and all euill speaking . 2. As newborne babes desire the sincere milke of the worde , that ye may grow thereby .

False witnesses are not onely those which in iudgement depose falsely against their neighbour : but whosoeuer hurteth by falshood , the renoume and good name of an other in what sorte soeuer it be , whether , it be publikely , or priuatly , whether it be by worde , or writing , or painting , or signes and tokens . Wherefore are forbidden all false reportes , all detractions , all false accusations , al defamations , al mockeries , all querkes and quippes , all gibes and iestes , all bitter scoffes and tauntes , by the which one either openly or secretly nippeth , and as it were pricketh and pincheth any one euen to the gaule . Moreouer , when any one doth depraue , alter , chaunge or disguise the words of any other tourning them to euill , albeit they were spoken to a good intent , or may be well taken , or at the lest are not of themselues naught and wicked : as did the witnesses of Iesus Christ . That is a kinde also of false witnesse , when as by silence or dissimulation , one suffereth & permitteth his neighbour to be defamed , or at the lest defrauded : especially when it is by the magistrate required at our hands , that we speake the truth and nothing but the truth , for the testimonie & witnes are not simplie forbidden , but the falshood . Wherefore to haue the mouth shut , and to hide the faultes of those which doe offend , and to sooth thē vp in their sinne , for feare of defaming them , is to wrest and writh the commaundement , from his true & proper sence and meaning , and not to haue respect vnto the ende and scope of the law-maker and giuer , which is mutually , to exercise loue and charitie one toward the other . Therefore euen as we are bounde , to beare witnesse of the truth , when we are required , so ought we also to reprehende , when occasion shal be offred , yea and that to accuse him to the Church and congregation , so that all be done in simplicitie , in loue and charitie .

THE TENTH COMmaundement .

Thou shalt not couet thy neighbours house , Thou shalt not couet thie neighbours wife , Thou shalt not couet thy neighbours seruaunt , nor his maide , nor his oxe , nor his asse , nor anie thinge that is his , &c.

Genes . 6.5 . When the Lord saw that the wickednesse of man was great in the earth , & all the imaginations of the thoughtes of his heart , were onely euill continually . 6. Then it repented the Lord , that he had made man in the earth , & he was sorie in his heart .

Genes . 8.21 . The imagination of mans heart is euill euen from his youth : neither will I smite any more all thinges liuing as I haue done .

Ierem . 17.9 . The heart is deceitfull and wicked aboue all thinges , who can know it ?

Rom. 6.12 . Let not sinne therefore raigne in your mortall bodie , that ye shoulde obey it in the lustes thereof . 13. Neitheir giue your members as weapons of vnrighteousnes vnto sinne : but giue your selues vnto God , as they that are aliue from the dead , and giue your members as weapons of righteousnes vnto God .

Rom. 7.17.20 . Now then , it is no more I , that do it , but the sinne that dwelleth in me . 23. But I see an other law in my members , rebelling against the law of my minde , and leading me captiue vnto the law of sinne , which is in my members .

Rom. 8.6 . For the wisedome of the flesh is death , but the wisedome of the Spirite is life and peace . 7. Because the wisedome of the flesh is enemie against God : for it is not subiect to the law of God , neither in deede can be . 8. So then they that are in the flesh can not please God .

OF AVARICE AND couetousnesse .

Prouerb . 15.27 . He that is greedie of gaine , troubleth his owne house : but he that hateth giftes , shall liue .

Isa . 56.11 . And these greedy dogges can neuer haue enough : and these sheepe-heardes can not vnderstand : for they all looke to their owne way , euerie one for his aduantage , and for his owne purpose .

Isaias . 57.17 . For his wicked couetousnes I am angrie with him , and haue smitten him : I hid me and was angrie , yet he went away , and turned after the way of his owne heart .

Ierem . 6.13 . For from the least of them , euen vnto the greatest of them , euerie one is giuen vnto couetousnesse , and from the Prophet , euen vnto the Priest , they all deale falslie .

Iere . 8.10 . For euerie one , from the least vnto the greatest , is giuen to couetousnesse , and from the Prophet euen vnto the Priest , euery one dealeth falsly .

Math . 6.19 . Lay not vp treasures for your selues vpon the earth , where the moth and cancar corrupt , and where theeues dig through and steale . 20. But lay vp treasures for your selues in heauen , where neither the moth nor cancar corrupteth , and where theeues neither digge through nor steale . 21. For where your treasure is , there will your heart be also . 22. The light of the body is the eye : if then thine eye be single , thy whole bodie shall be light . 23. But if thine eye be wicked , then all thy body shall be darke .

Mat . 16.26 . For what shall it profit a man , though he should win the whole world , if he lose his owne soule ?

Mat . 19.23 . Verelie I say vnto you , that a rich man , shall hardlie enter into the kingedome of heauen . 24. And againe I say vnto you , It is easier for a Cammell to go through the eye of a needle , then for a rich man , to enter into the kingedome of God .

Marke . 10.24 . How hard it is for them that trust in riches , to enter into the kingedome of God! 25. It is easier for a Cammell to go through the eye of a needle , then for a rich man to enter into the kingedome of God .

Luke . 12.15 . Wherefore he saide vnto them , Take heede , and beware of couetousnesse : for though a man haue aboundance , yet his life standeth not in his riches . 33. Make you bagges , which waxe not olde , a treasure that can neuer faile in heauen , where no thiefe commeth , neither moth corrupteth .

Luke . 18.24 . With what difficultie shall they that haue riches , enter into the kingedome of God ?

Rom. 7.7 . For I had not knowne lust , except the Law had said , Thou shalt not lust .

1. Cor . 10.24 . Let no man seeke his owne , but euery man anothers wealth .

1. Corinth . 13.5 . It disdayneth not , it seeketh not her owne thinges : it is not prou●ked to anger : it thynketh not euill .

1. Tim . 6.6 . But Godlinesse is great gaine , if a man be content with that he hath . 7. For we brought nothing into the world , and it is certaine , that wee can carie nothinge out . 8. Therefore when we haue foode and rayment , let vs therewith be content . 9. For they that will be rich , fall into temptation and snares , and into many foolish and noysome lustes , which drowne men in perdition and destruction . 10. For the desire of monie , is the roote of all euill , which while some lusted after , they erred from the faith , and pierced them selues through with many sorowes .

Hebr . 13.5 . Let your conuersation be without couetousnesse , and be content with those thinges that ye haue : for he hath said , I will not faile thee , neither forsake thee . 6. So that we may boldlie say , The Lord is my helper , neither will I feare , what man can do vnto me .

Iames . 1.14 . But euery man is tempted , when he is drawne away by his owne concupiscence , and is entised . 15. Then when lust hath conceaued , it bringeth foorth sinne , and sinne when it is finished , bringeth foorth death .

1. Iohn . 2.15 . If any man loue the world , the loue of the father is not in him . 16. For all that is in the world ( as the lust of the flesh , the lust of the eyes , and the pride of life , ) is not of the father , but is of the world . 17. And the world passeth away , and the lustes thereof . but he that fulfilleth the will of God , abideth euer .

THE EXPOSITION OF this commaundement .

Romanes . 7.7 . I knew not sinne , but by the Law : For I had not knowne lust , except the Law had said , Thou shalt not lust . 8. For without the Law sinne is dead . 9. For I once was aliue , without the Lawe : but when the commaund●ment came , sinne reuiued .

God doeth not condemne onely the exteriour faultes , and outward offenses ( that is to say , which are put in practise , and brought to effect , ) and the euill willes , mindes , and cogitations , but also all lust and concupiscence whatsoeuer , which doeth sollicite , prouoke , and pricke vs forward to naughtinesse & wickednesse . And albeit here is made mention onelie of lust and concupiscence touchinge adulterie , and couetousnesse , forasmuch as vnto them we are most enclined , notwithstanding that also is forbidden whose will of the minde and outward workes are forbidden and defended .

A BRIEFE SVMMARIE and content of all the commaundementes , in the which consisteth the whole obseruation and accomplishment of them .

Math . 22.36 . Maister which is the greatest commaundement in the Law ? 37. Iesus said to him , Thou shalt loue the Lord thy God with all thine heart , with all thy soule , & with all thy minde . 38. This is the first and the greate commaundement . 39. And the second is like vnto this , Thou shalt loue thy neighbour as thy selfe . 40. On these two commaundementes hangeth the whole Law , and the Prophets .

Iohn . 13.34 . A new commaundement giue I vnto you , that ye loue one an other , as I haue loued you : that ye also loue one another . 35. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples , if ye haue loue one to another .

Rom. 13.8 . Owe nothing to any man , but to loue one another : for he that loueth an other , hath fulfilled the Law . 9. For this , Thou shalt not commit adulterie , Thou shalt not kill , Thou shalt not steale , Thou shalt not beare false witnesse , Thou shalt not couet : and if there be any other commaundement , it is brieflie comprehended in this saying , euen in this , Thou shalt loue thy neighbour as thy selfe . 10. Loue doeth not euill to his neighbour : therefore is loue the fulfilling of the Law .

Gallat . 5.14 . For all the Law is fulfilled in one word , which is this , Thou shalt loue thy neighbour as thy selfe .

1. Tim . 1.5 . For the end of the commaundement is , loue out of a pure heart and of a good conscience , and of faith vnfained .

1. Iohn . 4.19 . We loue him , because he loued vs first . 20. If any man say , I loue God , and hate his brother , he is a lier : for how can he that loueth not his brother , whom he hath seene , loue God whom he hath not seene ? 21. And this commaundement haue we of him , that he that loueth God , should loue his brother also .

THE LAW WRITTEN in the heartes of the faithfull .

Isaias . 54.13 . Iohn . 6.45 . And thy children shall be taught of the Lord , & much peace shall be to thy children .

Ierem . 31.33 . Hebr . 8.10.11.12 . But this shall be the couenaunt that I will make with the house of Israell , after those dayes , saith the Lord , I will put my Lawe in theyr inwarde partes , and write it in their heartes , and will be their God , and they shall be my people . 34. And they shall teach no more euerie man his neighbour , and euerie man his brother , saying , know the Lord : for they shall all know me , from the least of them vnto the greatest of them , saith the Lord : for I will forgiue their iniquitie , & will remember their sinnes no more .

Ierem . 32.39 . And I will giue them one heart , and one way , that they may feare me for euer , for the welth of them , and of their children after them .

Ezech . 11.19 . and 36.27 . And I will giue them one heart , and I will put a new spirit within their bowels : and I will take the stonie heart out of their bodies , and will giue them an heart of flesh . 20. That they may walke in my statutes , and keepe my iudgementes , execute them : and they shall be my people , and I will be their God .

2. Cor . 3.3 . In that ye are manifest , to be the epistle of Christ , ministred by vs , and written , not with inke , but with the spirit of the liuing God , not in tables of stone , but in fleshly tables of the heart .

THE END AND FVLfilling of the Law in Christ , and by Christ .

Math . 5.17 . Thinke not that I am come to destroy the Law , or the Prophetes . I am not come to destroy them but to fulfill them .

Rom. 8.2 . For the Law of the spirit of life which is in Christ Iesus , hath freed me from the Law of sinne and of death . 3. For ( that that was impossible to the Law , inasmuch as it was weake , because of the flesh ) God sending his owne Sonne , in the similitude of sinnefull flesh , and for sinne , condemned sinne in the flesh . 4. That the righteousnesse of the Lawe might be fulfilled in vs , which walke not after the flesh , but after the spirit .

Rom. 10.4 . For Christ is the end of the Law , for righteousnesse vnto euerie one that beleeueth .

Eph. 2.14 . For he is our peace , which hath made of both one , and hath broken the stoppe of the partition wall . 15. In abrogating through his flesh the hatred , that is , the Law of commaundementes , which standeth in ordinaunces , for to make of two one newe man in him selfe , so making peace . 16. And that he might reconcile both vnto God in one bodie , by his crosse , and slay hatred thereby .

Hebr . 2.2 . For if the word spoken by Angels was stedfast , and euery transgression , and disobedience receaued a iust recompence of reward . 3. How shall we escape , if we neglect so great saluation , which at the first began to be preached by the Lord , and afterward was confirmed vnto vs by them that heard him . 4. God bearing witnesse thereto , both with signes and wonders , and with diuerse miracles , and giftes of the holy Ghost , according vnto his owne will .

Hebr . 7.19 . For the Law made nothing perfect , but the bringing in of a better hope made perfect , whereby we draw neare vnto God .

THE COMMAVNDEment which God gaue to all men to keepe his Law . And first to all rulers & gouernours of the people , to cause it to be in greater recommendation .

Nombers . 15.39 . And he shall haue the fringes , that when ye looke vpon them , ye may remember all the commaundementes of the Lord , & do them : and that ye seeke not after your owne heartes , nor after your owne eyes , after the which ye go a whoring , 40. That ye may remember and do all my commaundementes , and be holy vnto your God .

Deut . 4.6 . Keepe them therefore , & do them : for that is your wisedome , and your vnderstanding in the sight of the people , which shall heare all these ordinaunces , and shall say , onelie this people is wise , and of vnderstanding , and a great nation . 7. For what nation is so great , vnto whom the gods come so neare vnto them , as the Lord our God is nearer vnto vs , in all that we call vnto him for ? 8. And what nation is so great , that hath ordinaunces and lawes so righteouse , as all this Law , which I set before you this day ? 9. But take heede to thy selfe , and keepe thy soule diligentlie , that thou forget not the thinges which thine eyes haue seene , and that they depart not out of thine heart , all the dayes of thy life : but teach them thy sonnes , and thy sonnes sonnes .

Deut . 6.6 . And these wordes which I commaund thee this day , shall be in thine heart . 7. And thou shalt rehearse them continually vnto thy children , and shalt talke of them when thou tariest in thine house , and as thou walkest by the way , and when thou liest downe , and when thou risest vp . 8. And thou shalt binde them for a signe vpon thine hand , and they shall be as frontlets betweene thine eyes 9. Also thou shalt write them vpon the postes of thine house , and vpon thy gates .

Deut . 32.46 . Set your heartes vnto all the wordes , which I testifie against you this day , that ye may commaund them vnto your children , that they may obserue and do all the wordes of this Lawe .

HOWE THAT WEE ought not to adde or diminish from the Law and word of God , but keepe it diligentlie without declining either to the right hand or to the left .

Deut . 4.2 . Ye shall put nothing vnto the word which I commaund you , neither shall ye take ought therefrom , that ye may keepe the commaundementes of the Lord your God , which I commaund you .

Deut . 5.32 . Ios . 1.7 . and 2.36 . Take heede therefore , that ye do as the Lord your God hath commaunded you , tourne not aside to the right hand , nor to the left . 33. But walke in all the wayes which the Lord your God hath commaunded you , that ye may liue , and that it may go well with you : and that ye may prolonge your dayes in the lande which ye shall possesse .

Iosh . 6.18 . And thou shalt do that which is right and good in the sight of the Lord .

Iosh . 12.8 . Ye shall not do after all these thinges that we do heare this day : that is , euerie man whatsoeuer seemeth him good in his owne eyes . 28. Take heede , and heare all these wordes which I commaund thee , that it may go well with thee , and with thy children after thee for euer , when thou doest that which is good and right in the sight of the Lord thy God . 32. Therefore whatsoeuer I commaunde you , take heede you do it : thou shalt put nothing thereto , nor take ought therefrom .

Ioshua . 1.7 . Onelie be thou strong , and of a most valiant courage , that thou maist obserue and do according to the Lawe which Moses my seruaunt hath commaunded thee : thou shalt not turne away from it , to the right hand , nor to the left , that thou mayest prosper whethersoeuer thou goest .

Ioshua . 23.6 . Be ye therefore of a valiant courage , to obserue and do all that is written in the booke of the Law of Moses , that ye tourne not therefrom , to the right hand nor to the left .

Gallat . 1.8 . But though that we , or an Angell from heauen , preach vnto you otherwise then that , which we haue preached vnto you , let him be accursed .

THE LAW IS GOOD and holie .

Rom. 7.12 . The Law is holie , and the commaundement is holie , and iust , and good .

1. Timoth . 1.8 . And we know , that the Law is good , if a man vse it lawfullie .

ALTHOVGH IT DOETH not iustifie , and bring any one to perfection .

Rom. 3.19 . Now we know that what soeuer the law saith , it saith it to them which are vnder the law , that euerie mouth may be stopped , and all the world be culpable before God . 20. Therefore by the wordes of the law shall no fleshe be iustified in his sight : for by the lawe commeth the knowledge of sinne .

Rom. 4.13 . For the promise that he should be the heire of the worlde , was not giuen to Abraham or to his seede , through the law , but through the righteousnes of faith . 14. For if they which are of the law , be heires , faith is made voide , and the promise is made of none effect .

Rom. 8.3 . For ( it was impossible vnto the law , inasmuch as it was weake , because of the flesh ) God sending his owne sonne in the similitude of sinneful flesh , and for sinne , condemned sinne in the flesh . 4. That the righteousnes of the law might be fulfilled in vs , which walke not after the flesh , but after the spirite .

Gal. 2.16 . Know that a man is not iustified by the workes of the law , but by the faith of Iesus Christ : euen we , I saie , haue beleeued in Iesus Christ , that we might be iustified by the faith of Christ and not by the workes of the law , because that by the workes of the law no flesh shal be iustified . 21. I do not abrogate the grace of God : for if righteousnes be by the law , then Christ died without a cause .

Gal. 3.18 . For if the inheritance be of the law it is no more by the promise , but God gaue it to Abraham by promise 21. Is the law then against the promise of God ? God forbid : for if there had ben a lawe giuen which could haue giuen life , surely righteousnes shoulde haue bene by the law . 22. But the Scripture hath concluded al vnder sinne , that the promise by the faith of Iesus Christ should be giuen to them that beleeue .

Gal. 5.4 . Ye are abolished from Christ : whosoeuer are iustified by the law , ye are fallen from grace . 5. For we through the spirite waite for the hope of righteousnes through faith .

THE LAW WITHOVT the Spirite doth but breed condemnation and death & without that sinne is not imputed , and by it sinne is augmented .

Rom. 4.15 . For the law causeth wrath : for where no law is , there is no transgression .

Rom. 5.13 . For vnto the time of the law was sinne in the worlde , but sinne is not imputed , while there is no law . 20. Moreouer the lawe entred thereupon that the offence should abound , neuertheles where sinne abounded , there grace abounded much more .

Rom. 7.8 . But sinne tooke an occasion by the commaundement , and wrought in me all maner of concupiscence : for without the law sinne is dead . 9. For I once was aliue , without the law , but when the commandement came , sinne reuiued , 10. But I died and the same commaundement , which was ordained vnto life , was found to be vnto me vnto death . 11. For sinne tooke occasion by the commaundement , and deceiued me , and thereby slew me . 13. Was that then which is good made death vnto me ? God forbid : but sinne that it might appeare sinne , wrought death in me by that which is good , that sinne might be out of measure sinnefull by the commaundement .

1. Cor . 15.56 . The sting of death is sine : and the strength of sinne is the law .

2. Cor . 3.7 . If then the ministration of death written with letters , and ingrauen in stones , was greeuous : so that the children of Israell could not behold the face of Moses , for the glorie of his countenaunce ( which glorie is done away ) 8. How shall not the administation of the spirite be more glorious ? 9 , For if the ministery of condemnation was gloriouse , much more doeth the ministration of righteousnes exceede in glorie .

OF OVR DVTIE TOwarde God

Deut . 10.12 . And now Israell , what doth the Lord thy God require of thee , but to feare the Lord thy God , to walke in ●ll his wayes , and to loue him , and to s●rue the Lorde thy God with all thine hea●te , and with all thie soule . 13. That thou keepe the commaundementes of the Lorde , and his ordinaunces , which I comaund thee this daie , for thy wealth .

Luke . 10.28 . This doe and thou shalt liue .

Luke . 17.10 . So likewise ye when ye haue done all those thinges which are commaunded you , say , we are vnprofitable seruauntes : we haue done that which was our dutie to do .

Iames . 2.10 . For whosoeuer shall keepe the whole law , and yet fayleth in one point , he is giltie of all . 11. For he that saide , Thou shalt not commit adulterie , said also , Thou shalt not kill . Now though thou dost none adulterie , yet if thou killest , thou art a transgressour of the law .

AN ADMONITION TO those which assemble themselues togeather either to teach or to take their refection .

1. Cor . 10.31 . Whether therefore ye eate or dinke , or whatsoeuer ye do , do all to the glorie of God .

1. Cor . 14.26 . When ye come togeather , according as euerie one of you hath a psalme , or hath doctrine , or hath a tongue , or hath reuelation , or hath interpretation , let all thinges be done vnto edifiyng .

1. Timoth . 4.1 . Now the spirite speaketh euidently , that in the latter time some shall depart from the faith , & shal giue heede vnto spirites of errour , and doctrines of diuells . 2. Which speake lies through hypocrisie , and haue their consciences burned with an hote iron . 3. Forbidding to marrie , and commaunding to abstaine from meates , which God hath created to be receiued with thanks giuing of them , that beleeue and knowe the truth . 4. For euerie creature of God is good , and nothing ought to be refused , if it be receiued with thanks-giueing . 5. For it is sanctified by the worde of God and prayer .

CHRISTES EXAMPLE .

Matth . 26.26 . And as they did eate , Iesus tooke the bread and when he had giuen thankes , he brake it , and gaue it to his disciples , and saide , take eate this is my bodie . 30. And when they had song a psalme , they went out into the mount of Oliues .

THE FORME OF prayer before meates .

Psal . 67.1 . God be mercifull vnto vs and blesse vs , and cause his face to shine among vs. 2. That they may know thy way vpon earth , & thy sauing health among all nations .

AN OTHER .

Ephes . 1.3 . Blessed be God euen the father of our Lord Iesus Christ , which hath blessed vs with all spirituall blessinges in heauenlie thinges in Christ , as he hath chosen vs in him , before the foundation of the world , that we should be holie , & without blame before him in loue .

AN OTHER PRAYER .

Ephes . 3.20 . Vnto him therefore that is able to doe exceeding abundantly , aboue all that we aske or thinke , according to the power that worketh in vs , 21. Be praise in the Church by Iesus Christ , throughout all generations for euer Amen .

AN OTHER .

Colos . 3.17 . And what soeuer , ye shall do , in word , or deede , do all in the name of the Lorde Iesus , giueing thankes to God euen the father by him .

AN ADMONITION TO acknowledge Gods goodnesse and benefites towards vs.

Deut . 6.11 . And when thou hast eaten and art full . 12. Beware lest thou forget the Lord , which brought thee out of the land of Egypt out of the house of bondage .

THANKES-GIVING after meales

1. Timoth . 17. Now vnto the kinge euerlasting , immortall , inuisible , vnto God onely wise , be honour and glorie for euer and euer . Amen .

Apoc . 5.13 . Praise and honour , and glorie and power be vnto him , that sitteth vpon the throne & vnto the lambe for euermore .

AN OTHER .

Apoc . 7.12 . Praise and glorie and wisedome , and thankes and honour , and power , and might , be vnto God for euermore . Amen .

A GENERALL blessing .

Numb . 6.23 . Thus shall ye blesse the children of Israell , and saie vnto them 24. The Lord blesse thee and keepe thee , 25. The Lord make his face shine vpon thee , and be merciful vnto thee , 26 The Lord lift vp his countenance vpon thee & giue thee peace . 27. So they shal put my name vpon the children of Israell , and I will blesse them .

AN OTHER BLESSING on them which keepe Gods will and commaundement .

Deut . 28.1 . If thou shalt obey diligentlie the voice of the Lorde thy God , and obserue and doe all his commaundementes , which I commaund thee this day , then the Lord thy God will set thee on high aboue all the nations of the earth : &c. 3. Blessed shalt thou be in the citie , and blessed also in the field .

Mat . 6.33 . But seeke ye first the kingdome of God and his righteousnes , and all these thinges shall be ministred vnto you .

WHAT GOD IS .

GOd is infinite power , wisedome and goodnesse , without beginning and without end , the vnchangable true , iust & mercifull : one God in three persons , Father , Sonne , and holy Ghost : in whom are all things , by whom all thinges were made , & of whom all thinges are giuen .

WHAT MAN IS .

MAn was created after the image of God in righteousnes and holynes of life , garnished with reason , capable of perpetuall felicitie and blessednesse , made partaker of the heauenlie wisedome , righteousnesse , vertue , integritie , truth , innocencie : constituted and ordained Maister and Lord ouer all the creatures of the earth : but by the sinne of our first-father Adam , he was depriued of all these blessinges , and became poore , miserable , wicked , ignorant of the good , vniust , a lyar , variable , inconstant , couetous of honour , an hypocrite , subiect to sinne , in the which he is borne and conceaued .

MATTH . XIX .

Yf thou wilt enter into euerlasting life keepe the commaundementes .