An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: What are the reasons annexed to the fourth commandment?

Answer: The reasons annexed to the fourth commandment are, God's allowing us six days of the week for our own employment, his challenging a special propriety in the seventh, his own example, and his blessing the Sabbath-day.

Question: What is the rest which God requires on the Sabbath?

Answer: It is not a mere natural or civil, but a holy rest, resembling the rest in Heaven, wherein the mind is most active and busy in the work of God, though the body be at rest, and the spirit not wearied with its work; Revelation 4:8 and the four beasts had each of them six wings about him, and they were full of eyes within, and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.

Question: May not any works of our civil calling be ordinarily done on that day?

Answer: No; it is sinful to put our hands ordinarily to our callings on that day, and God usually punishes it. Nehemiah 13:15, 16, 17, 18. In those days saw I in Judah some treading wine-presses on the Sabbath, and bringing up sheaves, and lading donkeys, as also wine-grapes, and figs, and all manner of burdens which they brought into Jerusalem on the Sabbath-day; and I testified against them in the day wherein they sold victuals. There dwelt men of Tyre also therein, which brought fish, and all manner of ware, and sold on the Sabbath, unto the children of Judah, and in Jerusalem. Then I contended with the nobles of Judah, and said unto them, What evil thing is this that you do, and profane the Sabbath-day? Did not your fathers thus, and did not our God bring all this evil upon us, and upon this city? Yet you bring more wrath upon Israel by profaning the Sabbath.

Question: May we not refresh our bodies by recreations, or our minds by thoughts of earthly business, or discourses, on that day?

Answer: Recreations of the body, which are lawful on other days, are sinful on this day; and all the recreations of the mind allowed on this day, are spiritual and heavenly; Isaiah 58:13, 14. If you turn away your foot from the Sabbath, from doing your pleasure on my holy day, and call the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honorable, and shall honor him, not doing your own ways, nor finding your own pleasure, nor speaking your own words; then shall you delight yourself in the, Lord, and I will cause you to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed you with the heritage of Jacob your father; for the mouth of the Lord has spoken it.

Question: What works may lawfully be done on that day?

Answer: Christ's example warrants works of necessity, and works of mercy, but no other; Matthew 12:3, 4. But he said unto them, have you not read what David did, when he was an hungered, and they that were with him, How he entered into the house of God, and did eat the shew-bread, which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them that were with him, but only for the priests. And verse 7. But if you had known what this means, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, etc.

Question: What are the holy duties of the Sabbath?

Answer: The public worship of God; in reading, and hearing the word preached. Isaiah 66:23. And it shall come to pass, that from one new moon to another, and from one Sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before me, says the Lord, Luke 4:16.-And as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the Sabbath-day, and stood for to read. And prayer; Acts 16:13, 14. And on the Sabbath-day we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was accustomed to be made, etc. And receiving the Sacrament; Acts 20:7. And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached, etc.

Question: Are private duties in our families required, as well as public, on the Sabbath?

Answer: Yes; it is not enough to sanctify the Sabbath in public ordinances, but God requires it to be sanctified in family and private duties; Leviticus 23:3.-But the seventh day is the Sabbath of rest, a holy convocation; you shall do no work therein: it is the Sabbath of the Lord in all your dwellings.

Question: With what frame of spirit are all Sabbath duties, both public and private, to be performed?

Answer: They are to be performed with spiritual delight; Isaiah 58:13. If you turn away your foot from the Sabbath, from doing your pleasure on my holy day, and call the Sabbath a delight, etc. And all grudging at, and weariness of spiritual exercises, is a sin forbidden; Malachi 1:13. You said also, behold what a weariness is it, and you have snuffed at it, says the Lord of hosts, and you brought that which was torn, and the lame, and the sick; thus you brought an offering: should I accept this of your hand? says the Lord. Amos 8:5. When will the new moon be gone, that we may sell corn? and the Sabbath, that we may set forth wheat? etc.

Question: What is the first reason annexed to this command?

Answer: The first reason is the sufficient, and large allowance of time God has given us for our civil callings, and earthly business. Six days in the week is a large allowance.

Question: What is the second reason annexed to this fourth command?

Answer: The second reason is God's sanctifying and separating this day by a special command and institution for his service; so that to profane this time, is to sin against an express divine command.

Question: What is the third reason annexed to this command?

Answer: The third reason is God's own example, who rested the seventh day from all his works, and blessed this day, by virtue of which blessing we are encouraged to sanctify it.

Question: Is it not enough to sanctify this day in our own persons?

Answer: No; if God has put any under our authority, their profaning the Sabbath will become our sin, though we be never so strict in the observation of it ourselves.

Question: May we continue our civil employment to the last moment of our common time?

Answer: Except necessity or mercy urge us, we ought to break off before, and allow some time to prepare for the Sabbath, Luke 23:54. And that day was the preparation, and the Sabbath drew on.

Question: What is the first inference from hence?

Answer: That we have all great cause to be humbled for our Sabbath transgressions, either in our unpreparedness for it, our want of delight and spirituality in it, or the due government of our families as God requires.

Question: What is the second inference from hence?

Answer: That Christians on the Sabbath-day have a fair occasion and help to realize to themselves the heavenly state, in which they are to live abstract from the world, and God is to be all in all to them, Of the fifth Commandment


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHICH is the fifth commandment?

Answer: The fifth commandment is, [Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land which the Lord your God gives you.]


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: What is required in the fifth commandment?

Answer: The fifth commandment requires the preserving the honor, and performing the duties belonging to every one in their several places and relations, as superiors, inferiors, or equals.


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: What is forbidden in the fifth commandment?

Answer: The fifth commandment forbids the neglecting of, or doing anything against the honor and duty which belongs to every one in their several places and relations.


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: What is the reason annexed to the fifth commandment?

Answer: The reason annexed to the fifth commandment is, a promise of long life and prosperity (as far as it shall serve for God's glory and their own good) to all such as keep this commandment.

Question: What relatives are directly and more especially concerned in this fifth commandment?

Answer: All superiors and inferiors are concerned in it; especially, (1.) Political fathers and their children; that is, kings and subjects; Mark 11:10. Blessed be the kingdom of our father David, etc. (2.) Spiritual fathers, and their children; that is, ministers, and their people; 1 Corinthians 4:15. For though you have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have you not many fathers, for in Christ Jesus have I begotten you through the gospel. (3.) Natural parents, and their children; Ephesians 6:1. Children, obey your parents in the Lord. (4.) All civil superiors and inferiors, as husbands and wives, masters and servants; Ephesians 5:22. Wives, submit yourselves unto your husbands, as unto the Lord. And Ephesians 6:5. Servants be obedient to them that are your masters, according to the flesh, etc.

Question: What is the duty of political fathers, or magistrates, to their political children, or subjects?

Answer: It is to rule and govern the people over whom God has set them with wisdom; 2 Chronicles 1:10. Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people. Justice; 2 Chronicles 19:5, 6, 7. And he set judges in the land, throughout all the fenced cities of Judah, city by city. And he said to the judges, take heed what you do; for you judge not for man, but for the Lord, who is with you in the judgment. Wherefore now, let the fear of the Lord be upon you, take heed, and do it, etc. And piety; 2 Samuel 23:3. He who rules over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God. Carefully providing for their souls in every place of their dominion; 2 Chronicles 17:9. And they taught in Judah, and had the book of the law of the Lord with them, and went about throughout all the cities of Judah, and taught the people. And for their common outward peace and safety; 2 Chronicles 17:12. And Jehoshaphat waxed great exceedingly, and he built in Judah castles and cities of store.

Question: What are the duties of subjects to their rulers?

Answer: It is to pray for them; 1 Timothy 2:1, 2. I exhort therefore, that first of all supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men: For kings, and for all that are in authority, etc. To honor them; 1 Peter 2:17.-Fear God, honor the king. To obey their just laws; Romans 13:1. Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers, etc. And to pay them the tribute that is due to them; Romans 13:7. Render therefore to all their dues, tribute to whom tribute is due, custom to whom custom, etc.

Question: What are the duties of ministers to their people?

Answer: Their duty is, (1.) To feed their flock constantly with wholesome food; 2 Timothy 4:2. Preach the word, be instant in season, and out of season; rebuke, reprove, exhort, with all long-suffering and doctrine. (2.) To be full of affections of tender affection to them; 1 Thessalonians 2:7, 8. But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherishes her children: So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because you were dear unto us. (3.) To pray for them, Ephesians 1:15, 16. Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers. (4.) To watch over them; 1 Peter 5:2. Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly, etc. And, (5.) To walk as an example of godliness before them; Titus 2:7. In all things showing yourself a pattern of good works, etc. All which duties require their residence among them; 1 Peter 5:2. Feed the flock of God which is among you, etc.

Question: What are the people's duties towards their ministers?

Answer: Their duty is, (1.) To esteem and love them dearly for their work's sake; 1 Thessalonians 5:12, 13. And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. (2.) To attend on the word preached by them, as the word of God; 1 Thessalonians 2:13. For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God, which you heard of us, you received it not as the word of men, but (as it is in truth) the word of God. (3.) To pray for them, and the success of their labors; Hebrews 13:18. Pray for us, etc. (4.) Not to receive light and malicious reports against them; 1 Timothy 5:19. Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses. (5.) To make a competent and comfortable provision for them; Galatians 6:6. Let him that is taught in the word, communicate unto him that teaches in all good things.

Question: What are the duties of natural parents to their children?

Answer: It is their duty, (1.) To be tenderly, but not fondly affection, ate to, and tender over them; Isaiah 49:15. Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? (2.) To educate them for God; Ephesians 6:4. And you fathers, provoke not your children to wrath, but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. (3.) To restrain their sins by correction; Proverbs 29:15. The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings his mother to shame. (4.) To provide for their livelihood; 1 Timothy 5:8. But if any provide not for his own, and especially for those of his own house, he has denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel. (5.) To pray daily for them; Job 1:5. And it was so, when the days of their feasting were gone about, that Job sent and sanctified them, and rose up early in the morn, and offered burnt-offerings according to the number of them all: for Job said, It may be that my sons have sinned, and cursed God in their hearts: Thus did Job continually. (6.) To encourage them with endearing language in the way of godliness; Proverbs 31:2, 3. The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him. What, my son? and what the son of my womb? and what the son of my vows? Give not your strength unto women, nor your ways to that which destroys kings.

Question: What are the duties of children to parents?

Answer: Their duty is, (1.) To obey them only in the Lord; Ephesians 6:1. Children, obey your parents in the Lord. (2.) To reverence and honor them; Leviticus 19:3. You shall fear every man his mother and his father, etc. (3.) To submit to their reproofs and corrections; Hebrews 12:9. Furthermore, we have had fathers of our flesh, which corrected us, and we gave them reverence. (4.) To provide for them, if they be poor and needy, and we have ability; Genesis 47:12. And Joseph nourished his father and his brethren, and all his father's household, with bread, according to their families.

Question: What shall children do when parents abuse their authority, by forbidding duty, or commanding sin?

Answer: In such cases children are to obey God, rather than their parents; Acts 4:19. But Peter and John answered, and said unto them, whether it be right in the sight of God, to hearken unto you, more than unto God, judge you. But yet to manage their refusals of obedience with all meekness and humility.

Question: What is the first duty of husbands to their wives?

Answer: The first duty, on which all other duties depend, is cohabitation with them; 1 Peter 3:7. Likewise you husbands, dwell with them, according to knowledge, etc. And nothing can make this duty void, but a lawful divorce for adultery; Matthew 5:31, 32. But I say unto you, That whoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causes her to commit adultery, etc.

Question: What is the husband's second duty to his wife?

Answer: True and hearty love to soul and body; Ephesians 5:25. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it. Evidencing itself in careful provision for them; 1 Corinthians 7:33. But he who is married, cares for the things of the world, how he may please his wife. But especially to their souls, in winning them to Christ; 1 Corinthians 7:16. Or, how know you, O man, whether you shall save your wife? And building them up in Christ; 1 Peter 3:7. Likewise you husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honor unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers be not hindered.

Question: What are the duties of wives to their husbands?

Answer: It is their duty. (1.) to be in subjection to their own husbands; Ephesians 5:22, 23. Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord: For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church. (2.) To reverence them; Ephesians 5:33. And the wife see that she reverence her husband. (3.) To express their reverence in suitable words and actions; 1 Peter 3:6. Even as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him Lord, etc. (4.) To be faithful to them; Proverbs 31:12. She will do him good, and not evil, all the days of her life. (5.) To adorn their relation with meekness, and quietness of spirit; 1 Peter 3:4. But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.

Question: What are the duties of servants to their masters?

Answer: It is their duty, (1.) To be faithful in all things committed to their charge; Titus 2:10. Not purloining, but showing all good fidelity, etc. (2.) To honor them in all respectful words and carriages; 1 Timothy 6:1. Let as many servants as are under the yoke, count their own masters worthy of all honor, etc. (5.) To bear patiently their rebukes; 1 Peter 2:18, 19. Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward. For this is thank-worthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.

Question: What is the first duty of masters to their servants?

Answer: The first duty is to rule over them with gentleness, and not with terror and rigor; Ephesians 6:9. And you masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: Knowing that your Master also is in Heaven, neither is there respect of persons with him.

Question: What is the second duty of masters to their servants?

Answer: To pay them their wages fully, and without delay; Deuteronomy 24:14, 15. You shall not oppress an hired servant that is poor and needy, whether he be of your brethren, or of your strangers that are in your land within your gates. At his day you shall give him his hire, neither shall the sun go down upon it, for he is poor, and sets his heart upon it; lest he cry against you unto the Lord, and it be sin unto you. And to provide food for them convenient; Proverbs 27:27. And you shall have goat's milk enough for your food, for the food of your household, and for maintenance for your maidens.

Question: What is the third duty of masters to their servants?

Answer: The third and principal duty is, to engage them as much as in them lies, to the ways of God, and duties of religion, as Abraham did; Genesis 18:19. For I know him, that he will command his children, and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, etc. And Joshua, Joshua 24:15. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. Of the sixth Commandment


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHICH is the sixth commandment?

Answer: The sixth commandment is, [You shall not kill.]


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: What is required in the sixth commandment?

Answer: The sixth commandment requires all lawful endeavors to preserve our own life, and the life of others.


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: What is forbidden in the sixth commandment?

Answer: The sixth commandment forbids the taking away of our own life, or the life of our neighbor unjustly, or whatever tends thereunto.

Question: What is the natural order of these commandments in the second table?

Answer: In these commands God begins with the nearest concern of man, which is life; Job 2:4.-Skin for skin, yes, all that a man has, will he give for his life. Next to that his command guards his nearest relative, from whom the best outward comfort is to rise, his wife: Mark 10:8. And they twain shall be one flesh, etc. After that his good name, which is very precious to him; Ecclesiastes 7:1. A good name is better than precious ointment. And then his goods, which support his life; Isaiah 3:1. For behold, the Lord, the Lord of hosts, does take away from Jerusalem, and from Judah, the stay and the staff, the whole stay of bread, and the whole stay of water.

Question: How far does this commandment extend itself?

Answer: It prohibits all cruelty, and commands all help, care, and pity, so far as men's hearts and hands can go, for the relief and preservation of others; Psalm 119:96.-But your commandment is exceeding broad.

Question: Does this command respect only the outward action, or also the inward passion of the soul?

Answer: It respects and bridles the inward passion of the soul, as well as outward actions; as hatred, 1 John 3:15. Whoever hates his brother, is a murderer, etc. And causeless anger; Matthew 5:22. But I say unto you, that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause, shall be in danger of the judgment, etc.

Question: Does this command only respect the lives of others?

Answer: No; it primarily respects our own lives, and forbids us all things that tend to the shortening and ruin of them; Ephesians 5:29. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, even as the Lord does the church.

Question: How many ways may men sin against this command, with respect to their own lives.

Answer: A man sins against his own life, not only by destroying himself, as the jailor would have done; Acts 16:27. And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled; but by refusing food or physic to preserve life, or macerating our bodies with excessive sorrows; 2 Corinthians 7:10.-But the sorrow of the world works death. Or envy at others felicity; Proverbs 14:30.-But envy, the rottenness of the bones.

Question: How are men guilty of murder with respect to others?

Answer: Murder, with respect to others, may be either with relation to their bodies; Numbers 35:30. Whoever kills any person, the murderer shall be put to death, etc. Or to their souls, which is the most heinous murder in the world; Ezekiel 3:18. When I say unto the wicked, You shall surely die, and you give him not warning, nor speak to warn the wicked from his wicked way to save his life: the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at your hand.

Question: Is all destruction of another's life murder in the account of God?

Answer: No; It is not, if the life of a person be taken away in the course of justice; Genesis 9:6. Whoever sheds man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed. Or, in a just and necessary war; Judges 5:23. Curse you Meroz, (said the angel of the Lord) curse you bitterly the inhabitants thereof; because they came not to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty. Or by pure accident; Deuteronomy 19:5. As when a man goes into the wood with his neighbor to hew wood, and his hand fetches a stroke with the ax to cut down the tree, and the head slips from the helve, and lights upon his neighbor that he die, he shall flee unto one of those cities, and live. Or in self-defense; Exodus 22:2. If a thief be found breaking up, and be smitten that he die, there shall no blood be shed for him.

Question: Is there no other way of breaking this command?

Answer: Yes there is: Innocents may be murdered under the forms and solemnities both of justice and religion. So Naboth was murdered by Jezebel: 1 Kings 21:12, 13. They proclaimed a fast, and set Naboth on high among the people. And there came in two men, children of Belial, and sat before him: And the men of Belial witnessed against him, even against Naboth, in the presence of the people, saying, Naboth did blaspheme God and the king. Then they carried him forth out of the city, and stoned him with stones that he died. And the martyrs by bloody Papists. And this strongly proves a day of judgment; Ecclesiastes 3:16, 17. And moreover, I saw under the sun the place of judgment, that wickedness was there, and the place of righteousness, that iniquity was there. I said in mine heart, God shall judge the righteous and the wicked: For there is a time there for every purpose, and for every work.

Question: Are duels forbidden in this commandment?

Answer: Yes, they are; for whatever point of honor be touched, or whatever provocation be given, we are not to be our own avengers; Romans 12:19. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, etc.

Question: What is the first inference hence?

Answer: That we have great cause to bless God for his protecting law, and for human laws grounded upon his law for the protection of our lives; Romans 13:4.-For he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that does evil.

Question: What is the second inference hence?

Answer: That all that are guilty of this sin, have great cause to be humbled and afflicted: For it is a crying sin, Genesis 4:10.-The voice of your brother's blood cries unto me from the ground. Yet not to despair of mercy upon true repentance. Manasseh shed innocent blood, and yet was pardoned, upon repentance; 2 Kings 21:16. Moreover, Manasseh shed innocent blood very much, until he had filled Jerusalem from one end to another, etc.

Question: What is the third inference hence?

Answer: Let all men watch against pride, passion, malice, and revenge, the sin of the heart, from which this horrid sin proceeds; Matthew 15:18, 19. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, etc. Of the seventh Commandment


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHICH is the seventh commandment?

Answer: The seventh commandment is, [You shall not commit adultery.]


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: What is required in the seventh commandment?

Answer: The seventh commandment requires the preservation of our own and our neighbor's chastity in heart, speech, and behavior.


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: What is forbidden in the seventh commandment?

Answer: The seventh commandment forbids all unchaste thoughts, words, and actions.

Question: What is the duty required in this commandment?

Answer: The first duty required in this commandment is, the preservation of our own chastity in heart, lip, and life; 1 Thessalonians 4:3, 4. For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that you should abstain from fornication. That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honor. And Ephesians 4:29. Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, etc.

Question: Why must we preserve our own chastity?

Answer: Because our bodies are, or ought to be the temples of the Holy Spirit; 1 Corinthians 6:15, 19. Know you not, that your bodies are the members of Christ? Shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid. What, don't you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, which is in you, which you have of God, and you are not your own? And it is the express charge of God that they be kept pure and clean; 1 Thessalonians 4:3, 4. For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that you should abstain from fornication. That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honor.

Question: What is the second reason?

Answer: The second reason is, because of the evil of it to ourselves: As, (1.) It injures the body; 1 Corinthians 6:18. He who commits fornication, sins against his own body. (2.) It levels us with the Heathen; Ephesians 4:17, 19. This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk,-who being past feeling, have given themselves over to lasciviousness, to work all impurity with greediness. (3.) Dishonors our names; Proverbs 6:32, 33. But whoever commits adultery with a woman, a wound and dishonor shall he get, etc. (4.) Scatters our estates; Proverbs 5:10. Lest strangers be filled with your wealth, and your labors be in the house of strangers. (5.) Destroys the soul; Proverbs 6:32.-He who does it, destroys his own soul.

Question: What age is most incident to this sin?

Answer: The youthful age is most apt to be drawn into this sin; Proverbs 7:7. And behold among the simple ones, I discerned among the youths, a young man void of understanding. And 2 Timothy 2:22. Flee also youthful lusts, etc.

Question: How far does this command extend itself?

Answer: It extends itself to the heart, mind, and fancy, as well as to the body, and external actions; Matthew 5:28. But I say unto you, that whoever looks on a woman, to lust after her, has committed adultery with her already in his heart.

Question: What are the usual inducements to this sin?

Answer: The usual inducements to this sin are, (1.) Idleness and fullness of the creatures; Ezekiel 16:49, 50. Behold, this was the iniquity of your sister Sodom; pride, fullness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her, and in her daughters, etc. (2.) Wanton gestures; Isaiah 3:16. Moreover, the Lord says, Because the daughters of Zion are haughty, and walk with stretched forth necks, and wanton eyes, walking, and mincing as they go, and making a tinkling with their feet. (3.) Filthy communication; Ephesians 5:4. Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient, etc.

Question: What is the first remedy against this sin?

Answer: The first remedy, and the most effectual, is, to get the Spirit of God within us, to sanctify and rule us; Galatians 5:16.-Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh.

Question: What is the second remedy?

Answer: The keeping of a strict watch over the heart; Proverbs 4:23. Keep your heart with all diligence, etc. And over the external senses; Job 31:1. I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?

Question: What is the third remedy against it?

Answer: Deep and serious consideration of the danger of this sin, and what God threatens against adulterers; Hebrews 13:4.-Whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10.-Be not deceived, neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate,-shall inherit the kingdom of God. And how he describes them, Proverbs 22:14. The mouth of a strange woman is a deep pit; he who is abhorred of the Lord shall fall therein.

Question: What is the fourth remedy against it?

Answer: Prayer; Psalm 119:37. Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity, etc. And, to evidence our sincerity in prayer, we must study to shun all occasions of this sin; Psalm 18:23. I was also upright before him; and I kept myself from mine iniquity.

Question: What is the first inference from hence?

Answer: What cause those have to bless God, that have been kept from this sin; though the best ought to be humbled for their heart-pollutions.

Question: What is the second inference from hence?

Answer: Let it warn parents to do what in them lies to prevent the ruin of their children by this sin, (1.) By filling their heads and hands with lawful business. (2.) By serious admonitions and prayers for them. (3.) By keeping them from vain and tempting company. (4.) By disposing them seasonably in suitable marriage.

Question: What is the third inference from hence?

Answer: Let those that are defiled with this sin repent seriously of it as David did; Psalm 51:8. Make me to hear joy and gladness, that the bones which you have broken may rejoice. And apply the blood of Christ by faith; for in so doing it may be pardoned; 1 Corinthians 6:11. And such were some of you; but you are washed, but you are sanctified, but you are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and by the Spirit of our God. Of the eighth Commandment


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHICH is the eighth commandment?

Answer: The eighth commandment is, [You shall not steal.]


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Question: What is required in the eighth commandment?

Answer: The eighth commandment requires the lawful procuring and furthering the wealth, and outward estate of ourselves and others.


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: What is forbidden in the eighth commandment?

Answer: The eighth commandment forbids whatever does, or may unjustly hinder our own, or our neighbor's wealth, or outward estate.

Question: What is presupposed in this commandment?

Answer: It presupposeth that God has given every man a propriety in his estate, and that no man's goods are common to others, except by his consent in times and cases extraordinary; Acts 2:44. And all that believed were together, and had all things common.

Question: What is required in this commandment?

Answer: It requires of every man diligence in a lawful calling, to get and preserve an estate for his own and other's good; Proverbs 13:11. He who gathers by labor, shall increase. Ephesians 4:28.-But rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needs.

Question: What else is required in this commandment?

Answer: It requires us not only to get and keep the things of the world in a lawful manner, but to distribute and communicate them to those that are in want, and not cast them into temptations of sin, or inevitable ruin; Isaiah 58:10. And if you draw out your soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul: Then shall your light rise in obscurity, and your darkness be as the noon-day; 1 John 3:17. But whoever has this world's good, and sees his brother have need, and shuts up his affections of compassion from him, how dwells the love of God in him?

Question: What else is required in this commandment?

Answer: It requires in every man a public spirit to procure and promote the good and prosperity of others: 1 Corinthians 10:24. Let no man seek his own, but every man another's wealth.

Question: What else is required in this command?

Answer: It requires restitution of all goods, unjustly gotten, or taken from others; Leviticus 6:4. Then it shall be, because he has sinned, and is guilty, that he shall restore that which he took violently away, or the thing which he has deceitfully gotten, etc. And the restoring of pawns and pledges, when they are due; Ezekiel 18:7. And has not oppressed any, but has restored to the debtor his pledge, etc. Or things lost, if we can discover the true owners.

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

Answer: It forbids all cozening arid cheating of others in our dealings, and civil commerce with them; 1 Thessalonians 4:6. That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter, etc. Proverbs 26:28. A lying tongue hates those that are afflicted by it, and a flattering mouth works ruin.

Question: What is the second thing forbidden in this command?

Answer: It forbids all exaction and oppression of our neighbor, by going beyond them, or working on their necessities, or detaining their dues; Leviticus 25:14. And if you sell ought unto your neighbor, or buy ought of your neighbor's hand, you shall not oppress one another; Proverbs 24:28, 29. Be not a witness against your neighbor without cause: And deceive not with your lips. Say not, I will do so to him as he has done to me: I will render to the man according to his work.

Question: What is the third thing forbidden in this command?

Answer: It forbids all unlawful weights and measures, which is no better than theft in God's account; Micah 6:10, 11. Are there yet the treasures of wickedness in the house of the wicked, and the scant measure that is abominable? Shall I count them pure with the wicked balances, and with the bag of deceitful weights?

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

Answer: It forbids all family frauds by children; Proverbs 28:24. Whoever robs his father or his mother, and says, it is no transgression, the same is the companion of a destroyer. Or servants; Titus 2:9, 10. Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters;-not purloining, but showing all good fidelity, etc.

Question: What is the fifth thing forbidden in this command?

Answer: It forbids all tempting of, or encouraging others to defraud those who have any trust committed to them; Psalm 50:18. When you saw a thief, then you consent with him; Proverbs 29:24. Whoever is partner with a thief, hates his own soul, etc.

Question: What is the sixth thing forbidden in this command?

Answer: It forbids the taking away of another's goods by open robbery by sea or land; Job 5:5.-And the robber swallows up their substance. Or clandestinely and privately; 1 Peter 4:15. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, etc.

Question: What is the danger of this sin?

Answer: It brings men's souls, bodies, and estates, under the curse of God; Zechariah 5:3, 4. Then said he unto me, This is the curse that goes forth over the face of the whole earth: For every one that steals shall be cut off, as on this side, according to it:-I will bring it forth, says the Lord of hosts, and it shall enter into the house of the thief.

Question: What is the first instruction hence?

Answer: Let all that are guilty of this sin repent, and restore, as they expect mercy from God; Ephesians 4:28. Let him that stole, steal no more, etc. Luke 19:8. And Zaccheus stood, and said unto the Lord, Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor, and if I have taken away anything from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold.

Question: What is the last inference from hence?

Answer: To excite all, to whom God has given a competency of the things of the world, that they bless God for keeping them from the temptations of this sin; Proverbs 30:8, 9. Give me neither poverty nor riches, feed me with food convenient for me: Lest I be full, and deny you, and say, Who is the Lord? Or lest I be poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain. Of the ninth Commandment


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHICH is the ninth commandment?

Answer: The ninth commandment is, [You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.]


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: What is required in the ninth commandment?

Answer: The ninth commandment requires the maintaining and promoting of truth between man and man, and of our own and our neighbor's good name, especially in witness-bearing.


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: What is forbidden in the ninth commandment?

Answer: The ninth commandment forbids whatever is prejudicial to truth, or injurious to our own or our neighbor's good name.

Question: What is the general scope and aim of the ninth commandment?

Answer: The ninth command aims chiefly at the preservation and promoting of truth among men; Zechariah 8:16.-Speak you every man the truth to his neighbor, etc. This being of indispensable necessity to the subsistence and welfare of human society; Ephesians 4:25. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another.

Question: What is the first thing required particularly in this command?

Answer: This command requires every man to take care of preserving his own good name, by ordering his conversation in universal integrity; 1 Peter 3:15, 16. But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and be ready always to give an answer to every one that asks you a reason of the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; having a good conscience; that whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.

Question: What is the second thing required in this command?

Answer: It requires all due care to preserve the good name and honor of other men as well as our own; for Christians are not to be of narrow and private spirits, which center only in their own interests and concernment; Philippians 2:4. Look not every man on his own things; but every man also on the things of others.

Question: How are we to preserve the good names of others?

Answer: We are to preserve the good names of others by an inward esteem of all the good that is in them; Philippians 2:3.-In lowness of mind let each esteem others better than themselves. And manifesting our inward esteem of them by a wise and seasonable expression thereof for their encouragement in the ways of godliness; Romans 1:8. FIRST, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.

Question: How else are we to defend other men's names?

Answer: By our readiness to receive with joy the reports of that good that is in them; 3 John 3. For I rejoiced greatly when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in you, even as you walk in the truth. And discountenancing all reproaches maliciously vented against them; Psalm 15:3.-Nor takes up a reproach against his neighbor.

Question: But what if the report be evidently true?

Answer: In that case we are to grieve for their miscarriages, as the effect and fruit of our love to their souls; 2 Corinthians 2:4. For out of much affliction and anguish of heart, I wrote unto you with many tears, not that you should be grieved, but that you might know the love which I have more abundantly unto you. And to discharge our duties privately and faithfully, in order to their recovery; Matthew 18:15, 16, 17. Moreover, if your brother shall trespass against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone, etc. Winking at, and concealing in love, their lesser and common infirmities; 1 Peter 4:8. And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: For charity shall cover the multitude of sins.

Question: What is forbidden in the ninth commandment?

Answer: It forbids us to injure others, by raising or receiving lies, and false reports which are highly injurious to their good names; Colossians 3:9. Lie not one to another, etc.

Question: What else is forbidden in the ninth commandment?

Answer: It especially forbids perjury, or false swearing, whereby not only the names, but estates and lives of the innocent are injured and ruined; Psalm 35:11. False witnesses did rise up. They laid to my charge things that I knew not; Proverbs 19:5. A false witness shall not be unpunished: And he who speaks lies shall not escape. A sin which God will punish; Malachi 3:5. And I will come near to you to judgment, and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, etc.

Question: What else is forbidden in this commandment?

Answer: It forbids all whispering and backbiting of others secretly; 2 Corinthians 12:20.-Lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, etc. And all tale-carrying from one to another, to our neighbor's injury; Leviticus 19:16. You shall not go up and down as a tale-bearer among the people, etc. And 1 Timothy 5:13.-And not only idle, but tatlers also, and busy-bodies, speaking things which they ought not.

Question: What else does the ninth commandment forbid?

Answer: It forbids all rash and unwarrantable judging of other men's hearts and final estates which is usually accompanied with ignorance of our own; Matthew 7:1, 3. Judge not, that you be not judged. And why behold you the mote that is in your brother's eye, but consider not the beam that is in your own eye?

Question: What else is forbidden in this commandment?

Answer: It forbids the eclipsing of the true worth and honor of others, by a proud exalting of ourselves; 1 Corinthians 13:4, 5. Charity envies not, charity vaunts not itself, is not puffed up, etc. Or by crying up one to the disparagement of another good man; 1 Corinthians 3:4, 5. For while one says, I am of Paul, and another, I am of Apollos, are you not carnal? etc.

Question: What is the first inference from hence?

Answer: That the best Christians have cause to be humbled for the sins of the tongue whereby God is dishonored, and others are injured; James 3:2. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body. And verse 5, 6. Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasts great things: behold how great a matter a little fire kindles. And the tongue is afire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of Hell.

Question: What is the second inference from hence?

Answer: It is our great concernment to walk with that piety and justice towards God and men, as to cut off all just occasions of reproach from our names; 2 Corinthians 11:12. But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them which desire occasions, etc. 1 Timothy 5:14 I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.

Question: What is the third inference from this commandment?

Answer: To bless God that our names are kept sweet and honorable in the world among good men; 3 John 12. Demetrius has a good report of all men, etc. Or if we be reproached, it is by none but wicked men, and that for our duty to God; Daniel 6:5. Then said these men, we shall not find any occasion against this Daniel, except we find it against him concerning the law of his God. Of the tenth Commandment


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Question: WHICH is the tenth commandment?

Answer: The tenth commandment is, [You shall not covet your neighbor's house, you shall not covet your neighbor's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maid-servant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor anything that is your neighbor's.]


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Question: What is required in the tenth commandment?

Answer: The tenth commandment requires full contentment with our own condition, and a right and charitable frame of spirit towards our neighbor, and all that is his.


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: What is forbidden in the tenth commandment?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Question: Whence does discontent with our condition spring?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Question: What is the mischief of covetousness?

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

Question: What is the first inference from hence?

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

Question: What is the second inference from hence?

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

Question: What is the last inference from hence?

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Question: What is the first inference from hence?

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

Question: What is the second inference from hence?

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

Question: What is the third inference from hence?

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

Question: What is the fourth inference from hence?

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

Question: What is the fifth inference from hence?

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

Question: What is the last inference from hence?

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


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: ARE all transgressions of the law equally heinous?

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

Question: Whence arises the first difference of sin?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Question: From whence does this scripture aggravate sin?

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

Question: What is the second thing that aggravates sin?

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

Question: Are heinous and crying sins capable of forgiveness?

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

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

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

Question: What is the first inference hence?

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

Question: What is the second inference hence?

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

Question: What is the third inference hence?

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

Question: What is the last inference hence?

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


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHAT does every sin deserve?

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

Question: Wherein does the evil of sin principally consist?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Question: What learn we from hence?

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

Question: What is the second instruction hence?

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

Question: What is the third instruction hence?

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

Question: What is the fourth instruction hence?

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

Question: What is the fifth instruction hence?

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

Question: What is the last instruction?

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


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Question: What is the first inference hence?

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

Question: What is the second inference hence?

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

Question: What is the third inference hence?

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

Question: What is the fourth inference hence?

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


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHAT is faith in Jesus Christ?

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

Question: What is the root or cause of faith?

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

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

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

Question: Who are the proper subjects of faith?

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

Question: What is the seat or habitation of faith?

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

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

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

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

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

Question: What is the object of faith?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Question: Is no man actually justified until he believe?

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

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

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

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

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


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: WHAT is repentance unto life?

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

Question: Who is the author of saving repentance?

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

Question: In what act does all true repentance begin?

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

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

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

Question: Is the sight of sin sufficient to repentance?

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

Question: Wherein does repentance chiefly consist?

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

Question: Wherein else does it consist?

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

Question: Is turning from sin sufficient?

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

Question: Is all sorrow for sin saving?

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

Question: What are the signs of true repentance?

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

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

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

Question: What is the first inference hence?

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

Question: What is the second inference hence?

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

Question: What is the last inference hence?

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


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

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

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

Question: What makes anything become a divine ordinance?

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

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

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

Question: May not men institute ordinances of divine worship?

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

Question: Why cannot man institute a divine ordinance?

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

Question: For what other reason cannot man do it?

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

Question: Why are the ordinances called means of salvation?

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

Question: Whence is the virtue of ordinances?

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

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

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

Question: Are instituted ordinances the only means of salvation?

Answer: They are not the only means; for God can convert men to Christ without them; Acts 9:4, 5. And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecute you me? And he said, Who are you Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus, whom you persecute: It is hard for you to kick against the pricks. But they are the ordinary standing means; Romans 10:14, 15. How then shall they call on him, in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in him, of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? etc.

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

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

Question: What is the first instruction from hence?

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

Question: What is the second inference from hence?

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

Question: What is the third inference from hence?

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

Question: What is the last instruction hence?

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


An Exposition of the Assemblies Catechism

Question: HOW is the word made effectual to salvation?

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

Question: What mean you by the word?

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

Question: Whence is the efficacy of this word?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Question: What is it useful for, besides conviction?

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

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

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

Question: What else is the word useful for?

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

Question: May the common people read the scriptures?

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

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

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

Question: What is the first instruction from hence?

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

Question: What is the second instruction?

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

Question: What is the third inference?

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

Question: What is the last inference?

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