Q. 31. What is effectual calling?
A. Effectual calling is the work of God's Spirit, whereby convincing us of our sin and misery, enlightening our minds in the knowledge of Christ, and renewing our wills, he does persuade and enable us to embrace Jesus Christ, freely offered to us in the gospel.
31.1. Is the common call given to the world? Yes: he sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden, Matt 22:3. Can ministers make that call effectual? No: for who hath believed our report, Isa 53:1. Is it the work of God to make it effectual? Yes: for it is God that giveth the increase, 1 Cor 3:7. Does he do it in a way suitable to our nature? Yes: I drew them with cords of a man, Hos 11:4. Is it necessary to our salvation that the call should be effectual? Yes: who hath saved us, and called us with a holy calling, 2 Tim 1:9.
31.2. Are all who are effectually called convinced of sin? Yes: I was alive without the law once, but when the commandment came, sin revived, Rom 7:9. Is it the Spirit's work to convince? Yes: when he is come he will convince the world of sin, John 16:8. Is the word the ordinary means of conviction? Yes: for by the law is the knowledge of sin, Rom 3:20. Is it necessary we should be convinced of sin? Yes: for they that are whole, need not a physician, Matt 9:12. Must we be convinced of the fact of sin? Yes: These things thou hast done, Ps 50:21. And of the fault of sin? Yes: Know therefore, and see, that it is an evil thing, Jer 2:19: And of the folly of sin? Yes: Herein thou hast done foolishly, 2 Chron 16:9. And of the filth of sin? Yes: For how canst thou say, I am not polluted? Jer 2:23. And of the fruit of sin? Yes: Your sins have separated between you and your God, Isa 59:1-2. And of the fountain of sin? Yes: They shall know every man the plague of his own heart, 1 Kings 8:38.
31.3. Must we also be convinced of our misery? Yes: Thou art wretched and miserable, Rev 3:17. And of our danger? Yes: Flee from the wrath to come, Matt 3:7. Must we be convinced of our helplessness in ourselves? Yes: when sin revived I died, Rom 7:9. And of the possibility of our being helped by the grace of God? Yes: How many hired servants of my father have bread enough, and to spare! Luke 15:17. Will these convictions put us in pain? Yes: When they heard this, they were pricked to the heart, Acts 2:37. And bring us to be at a loss within ourselves? Yes: Men and brethren, what shall we do? Acts 2:37. And put us upon inquiry? Yes: They shall ask the way to Sion with their faces thitherward, Jer 50:5. Are these convictions necessary to prepare us for an invitation to Christ? Yes: Come unto me all ye that labour, and are heavy laden, Matt 11:28.
31.4. Does the Spirit, when he has convinced us of sin and misery, leave us so? No: for he has torn, and he will heal us, Hos 6:1. When he has showed us our wound, does he show us our remedy? Yes: O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself, but in me is thy help, Hos 13:9.
Does he enlighten our minds? Yes: the Spirit of wisdom and revelation is given, that the eyes of our understanding may be enlightened, Eph 1:17-18. Does he enlighten them with the knowledge of Christ? Yes: he gives the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ, 2 Cor 4:6. Does he discover to the soul Christ's ability to save? Yes: I have laid help upon one that is mighty, Ps 89:19. And his willingness to save? Yes: I will, be thou clean, Matt 8:3. Should we be most ambitious of the knowledge of Christ? Yes: counting all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus our Lord, Phil 3:8. Does the Spirit direct convinced sinners to Christ? Yes: Turn ye to the strong hold, ye prisoners of hope, Zech 9:12.
31.5. Is it enough to have the mind enlightened? No: for we are called into a professed subjection to the gospel of Christ, 2 Cor 9:13. Must the will therefore be renewed? Yes: for it is God that worketh in us both to will and to do of his own good pleasure, Phil 2:13. Is it the work of the Spirit to incline the will to do that which is good? Yes: Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, Ps 119:36. And is that the renewing of the will? Yes: A new heart will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you, Ezek 36:26. Does that make the will pliable? Yes: I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh, Ezek 11:19. Does it bring it into subjection to the will of God? Yes: Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? Acts 9:6. And is that a cheerful subjection? Yes: because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost, Rom 5:5.
31.6. Is Christ offered to us in the gospel? Yes: Behold, I stand at the door and knock, Rev 3:20. Is he freely offered? Yes: Come buy, without money, and without price, Isa 55:1. Are we concerned to embrace that offer? Yes: Come eat of my bread, and drink of the wine that I have mingled, Prov 9:5. Are we by nature averse to it? Yes: Ye will not come to me, that ye might have life, John 5:40. Do sinners perish then through their own wilfulness? Yes: I have called, and ye have refused, Prov 1:24. Does the Spirit in effectual calling overcome this aversion? Yes: With loving kindness have I drawn thee, Jer 31:3. Does he persuade us to embrace this offer? Yes: For every man that hath heard, and learned of the Father, cometh unto me, John 6:45 Does he enable us? Yes: For you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins, Eph 2:1.
31.7. Can we turn to God by any power of our own? No: for we are not sufficient of ourselves, 2 Cor 3:5. Is it the grace of God that turns us to him? Yes: Turn thou me, and I shall be turned, Jer 31:18. Is it free grace? Yes: He went on frowardly in the way of his heart, I have seen his ways and will heal him, Isa 57:17-18. Does it turn us by a work upon the will? Yes: The Lord opened the heart of Lydia, Acts 16:14. Is it special grace? Yes: It is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that showeth mercy, Rom 9:16. Shall this grace be given to all the elect? Yes: All that the Father hath given me shall come unto me, John 6:37. Shall it be effectual? Yes: His grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain, 1 Cor 15:10. May we in faith pray for this grace? Yes: I will for this be inquired of by the house of Israel, Ezek 36:37. Can any turn to God without this special grace? No: for no man can come to me, except the Father, which hath sent me, draw him, John 6:44. Must that grace therefore have all the glory? Yes: we must show forth the praises of him that hath called us, 1 Pet 2:9.
Q. 32. What benefits do they that are effectually called partake of in this life?
A. They that are effectually called do in this life partake of justification, adoption, and sanctification, and the several benefits which in this life do either accompany or flow from them.
32.1. Are all those happy which are effectually called? Yes: for God hath called us to his kingdom and glory, 1 Thess 2:12. Are they partakers of the
blessings of the new covenant? Yes: for the promise is sure to all the seed, Rom 4:16. Are they happy even in this life? Yes: for after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise, Eph 1:13.
32.2. Are they dignified and preferred? Yes: Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, 1 Pet 2:9. Are they brought near? Yes: Ye who sometimes were afar off, are made nigh, Eph 2:13. Are they enriched? Yes: God hath called the poor in this world rich in faith, James 2:5. Are they taken into the communion of saints? Yes: for we are come to the church of the firstborn which are written in heaven, Heb 12:23. And into communion with the holy angels? Yes: for we are come to an innumerable company of angels, Heb 12:22. Are they entitled to the best possessions? Yes: all things are yours, whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come, all are yours, 1 Cor 3:22. Are they happy in the best blessings? Yes: The God and Father of our Lord Jesus hath blessed us with spiritual blessings in heavenly things, Eph 1:3. Are they happy both for soul and body? Yes: He hath given us all things that pertain to life and godliness, 2 Pet 1:3.
32.3. Are they justified? Yes: whom he called, them he justified, Rom 8:30. Is that an unspeakable benefit? Yes: blessed is the man whose iniquity is forgiven, Ps 32:1. Are they adopted? Yes: for he hath predestinated us to the adoption of children, Eph 1:5. And is that an unspeakable benefit? Yes: for if children, then heirs, Rom 8:17. Are they sanctified? Yes: they are sanctified in Christ Jesus, 1 Cor 1:2. And is that an unspeakable benefit? Yes: for we are partakers of his holiness, Heb 12:10.
32.4. Do they partake of other benefits? Yes: The Lord will give grace and glory, and no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly, Ps 84:11. Are all these benefits given to them that are effectually called? Yes: for the promise of the remission of sins, and the gift of the Holy Ghost, is to as many as the Lord our God shall call, Acts 2:39. And shall every thing turn to their advantage? Yes: all things work together for good to them that are the called, Rom 8:28. Will you therefore make it sure that you are effectually called, by coming at the call? Yes: behold, we come unto thee, for thou art the Lord our God, Jer 3:22.
Q. 33. What is justification?
A. Justification is an act of God's free grace, wherein he pardons all our sins and accepts us as righteous in his sight, only for the righteousness of Christ imputed to us, and received by faith alone.
33.1. Have we all need to be justified? Yes: for we are all guilty before God, Rom 3:19. Is it enough if we justify ourselves? No: If I justify myself my own mouth shall condemn me, Job 9:20. Is it enough if our neighbours justify us? No: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God, Luke 16:15. Must it be God's act then? Yes: It is God that justifieth, Rom 8:33. And his only? Yes: for none can forgive sins but God only, Mark 2:7. And is it an act of free grace? Yes: we are justified freely by his grace, Rom 3:24.
33.2. Are all that are justified discharged from the sentence of the law? Yes: for there is no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus, Rom 8:1. Have they their sins pardoned? Yes: we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, Eph 1:7. Does God forgive them? Yes: I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions, Isa 43:25.
33.3. When God forgives sin does he forgive all? Yes: having forgiven all your trespasses, Col 2:13. Does he forgive even great sins? Yes: though your sins have been as scarlet, they shall be white as snow, Isa 1:18. Does he forgive many sins? Yes: he will abundantly pardon, Isa 55:7. Does he forgive freely? Yes: I will be merciful to their unrighteousness. Does he forgive fully? Yes: their sins and their iniquities I will remember no more, Heb 8:12. Is he forward to forgive? Yes: I said I will confess and thou forgavest, Ps 32:5. Does he forgive and forget? Yes: thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea, Mic 7:19.
33.4. Is forgiveness of sins offered to all
upon gospel terms? Yes: for repentance and remission of sins is preached to all nations, Luke 24:47. Is it secured to all the chosen remnant? Yes: for Christ is exalted to be a Prince, and a Saviour, to give repentance and remission of sins, Acts 5:31. Have all believers their sins pardoned? Yes: through him all that believe are justified, Acts 13:39. Are they accepted in God's sight? Yes: he hath made us accepted in the Beloved, Eph 1:6. Are they accepted as righteous? Yes: for we are made the righteousness of God in him, 2 Cor 5:21.
33.5. Can we be justified by the covenant of innocency? No: for who can say, I have made my heart clean? Prov 20:9. Can we be justified by any thing in ourselves? No: How can men be justified with God? Job 25:4. If we know no ill by ourselves will that justify us? No: though I know nothing by myself, yet am I not thereby justified, 1 Cor 4:4. Will the law of Moses justify us? No: we are justified from all those things from which we could not be justified by the law of Moses, Acts 13:39. Will our own works justify us? No: by the deeds of the law shall no flesh be justified, Rom 3:20. Would the ceremonial sacrifices justify men? No: they could not make the comers thereunto perfect, Heb 10:1. Are we justified for the righteousness of Christ? Yes: By the obedience of one shall many be made righteous, Rom 5:19. And for that only? Yes: Not having my own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, Phil 3:9.
33.6. Is the righteousness of Christ imputed to us for our justification? Yes: for he is made of God unto us righteousness, 1 Cor 1:30. Did Christ die that it might be imputed? Yes: He shall justify many, for he shall bear their iniquities, Isa 53:11. Do we owe our justification then to the death of Christ? Yes: the blood of Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin, 1 John 1:7. And does that lay the foundation of our salvation? Yes: being justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath, Rom 5:9. Were we justified from eternity? No: for in due time Christ died for the ungodly, Rom 5:9. If Christ had died, and not risen again, could he have justified us? No: for he was delivered for our offences, and raised again for our justification, Rom 4:25. Is that then our plea for peace and pardon? Yes: for who then is he that shall condemn? Rom 8:34. May we then depend upon Christ for righteousness? Yes: In the Lord I have righteousness and strength, Isa 45:24. Is it become an act of justice in God to pardon sin upon the account of Christ's righteousness? Yes: for he is just, and the justifier of him that believeth in Jesus, Rom 3:26; 1 John 1:9.
33.7. Are we to receive the righteousness of Christ? Yes: We have now received the atonement, Rom 5:11. Do we receive it by faith? Yes: through his name; whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins, Acts 10:43. And by faith only? Yes: for being justified by faith we have peace with God, Rom 5:1. Did Christ's death satisfy the law? Yes: for Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, Gal 3:13. Is that then our only righteousness in the law court? Yes: for we are reconciled to God by the death of his Son, Rom 5:10. Do we by true faith come up to the terms of the gospel? Yes: Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, Acts 16:31. Is that then our righteousness in the gospel court? Yes: for to him that believeth, his faith is counted for righteousness, Rom 4:5. Is it therefore our life? Yes: for the just shall live by his faith, Hab 2:4. Is it so as it applies Christ's righteousness? Yes: This is the name whereby he shall be called, the Lord our righteousness, Jer 23:6.
33.8. Is justifying faith a working faith? Yes: for by works is faith made perfect, James 2:22. And will that faith justify us which does not produce good works? No: for by works a man is justified, and not by faith only, James 2:24. Is faith then dead without good works? Yes: for as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also, James 2:26. And are good works dead without faith? Yes: for without faith it is impossible to please God, Heb 11:6. Must they both act together then? Yes:
for that which avails is faith, which works by love, Gal 5:6. Do we then make void the law through faith? No: God forbid, yea, we establish the law, Rom 3:31. Is our faith our own? No: it is not of ourselves, it is the gift of God, Eph 2:8. Are our good works our own? No: for thou also hast wrought all our works in us, Isa 26:12. Is any room left for boasting then? No: it is excluded by the law of faith, Rom 3:27. Must God therefore have all the glory? Yes: for by the grace of God I am what I am, 1 Cor 15:10.
Q. 34. What is adoption?
A. Adoption is an act of God's free grace, whereby we are received into the number, and have a right to all the privileges, of the sons of God.
34.1. Are all believers God's children? Yes: ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus, Gal 3:26. Are they so by nature? No: We are by nature children of wrath, Eph 2:3. Are they so by adoption? Yes: we receive the adoption of sons, Gal 4:5. Do they deserve to be made God's children? No: how shall I put thee among the children, and give thee a pleasant land? Jer 3:19. Are they altogether unworthy of such a favour? Yes: I am no more worthy to be called thy son, Luke 15:19. Is it bestowed upon them notwithstanding their unworthiness? Yes: I will be a Father to you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty, 2 Cor 6:18.
34.2. Is adoption an act of God's free grace? Yes: behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God, 1 John 3:1. Are we by it received into the number of God's children? Yes: there shall they be called the children of the living God, Rom 9:26, Are we received into that number upon our believing? Yes: As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name, John 1:12.
34.3. Have we leave to call God, Father? Yes: Ye have received the spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father, Rom 8:15. Does he encourage us to do so? Yes: Thou shalt call me, My Father, and shalt not turn away from me, Jer 3:19. May we call him so, though we have been prodigals? Yes: I will go to my Father, and will say unto him, Father, Luke 15:18. May we look upon all good Christians as our brethren? Yes: For all ye are brethren, Matt 23:8. And do they all make one family? Yes: Of whom the whole family both in heaven and earth is named, Eph 3:15.
34.4. Does God give the nature of his children to all whom he receives into the number? Yes: because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, Gal 4:6. Do they partake of a divine nature? Yes: they are made partakers of a divine nature, 2 Pet 1:4. Are all God's children born again then? Yes: they are born not of the will of man, but of God, John 1:13. Is our adoption then to be known by our disposition? Yes: for in this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil, whosoever doth not righteousness is not of God, 1 John 3:10.
34.5. Have all God's adopted children a right to the privileges of children? Yes: they are brought into the glorious liberty of the children of God, Rom 8:21. Does their Father pity them? Yes: like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him, Ps 103:13. Does he spare them? Yes: as a man spares his own son that serves him, Mal 3:17. Does he take care of them? Yes: Children, have ye any meat, John 21:15. Does he provide for them? Yes: for they that seek the Lord shall want no good thing, Ps 34:10. Does he correct them in love? Yes: for what son is he whom the Father chasteneth not? Heb 12:7. Does he hear their prayers? Yes: your Father in heaven will give good things to them that ask him, Matt 7:11. Will he give them the inheritance of sons? Yes: It is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom, Luke 12:32. Will he bring them all safe to it? Yes: he will gather together the children of God that were scattered abroad, John 11:52. Will Christ present them all to the Father? Yes: behold, I and the children which thou least given me, Heb 2:13.
34.6. Must all God's children reverence him? Yes: If I be a Father, where is my honour? Mal 1:6. Must they obey him? Yes: as obedient children, 1 Pet 1:14. Must they imitate him? Yes: be ye followers of God, as dear children, Eph 5:1. Must they submit to him? Yes: Father, thy will be done, Matt 26:42.
Q. 35. What is sanctification?
A. Sanctification is the work of God's free grace, whereby we are renewed in the whole man after the image of God, and are enabled more and more to die unto sin, and live unto righteousness.
35.1. Are all that are justified sanctified? Yes: for Jesus Christ is made both righteousness and sanctification, 1 Cor 1:30. Is it necessary they should be so? Yes: for without holiness no man shall see the Lord, Heb 12:14. Did Christ die that they might be sanctified? Yes: for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified, John 17:19. And was this the intention of their election? Yes: he hath chosen you to salvation through sanctification, 2 Thess 2:13.
35.2. Is sanctification the work of God? Yes: we are sanctified by God the Father, Jude 1. Is it the work of the Spirit of God? Yes: it is sanctification of the Spirit, 1 Pet 1:2. Is it a work of free grace? Yes: according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, Titus 3:5. Is it a work wrought in us? Yes: for we are his workmanship, created unto good works, Eph 2:10.
35.3. Is sanctification something more than being civilized? Yes: for he is not a Jew that is one outwardly, Rom 2:28. Is it more than being baptized? Yes: it is not the putting away the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience, 1 Pet 3:21. Is it an inward change of the heart? Yes: we must be renewed in the spirit of our mind, Eph 4:23. Is it the renovation of the whole man? Yes: if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature, 2 Cor 5:17. Will it suffice to have a new name? No: for thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead, Rev 3:1. Will it suffice to have a new face? No: for there are those that have the form of godliness, but deny the power of it, 2 Tim 3:5. Must there be a new heart? Yes: a new heart will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you, Ezek 36:26. And a new nature? Yes: put on the new man, Eph 4:24. And a new birth? Yes: except a man be born again he cannot see the kingdom of God, John 3:3.
35.4. Must we be cleansed from sin? Yes: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you, Ezek 36:25. Must we be consecrated to God? Yes: for we are the temple of God, 1 Cor 3:16. Must the law be written in the heart? Yes: I will put my law in their heart, Heb 8:10. Must the understanding be enlightened? Yes: anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see, Rev 3:18. Must the heart be softened? Yes: I will take away the stony heart, and give a heart of flesh, Ezek 11:19. Must the will be bowed? Yes: Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? Acts 9:6. Must the affections be made spiritual? Yes: Set your affections on things above, Col 3:2. Must the body also be an instrument of holiness? Yes: Present your bodies a living sacrifice, Rom 12:1.
35.5. Must we be renewed after the image of God? Yes: Put on the new man, which is renewed after the image of him that created him, Col 3:10. And after the pattern of Christ? Yes: for Christ must be formed in us, Gal 4:19. Is sin mortified in all that are sanctified? Yes: they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh, Gal 5:24. Is grace planted in them? Yes: there is a well of water springing up to eternal life, John 4:14. Is this work perfect at first? No: it is first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear, Mark 4:28.
35.6. Do all that are sanctified die unto sin? Yes: Reckon ye yourselves dead unto sin, Rom 6:11. Do they live unto righteousness? Yes: being dead to sin, we live unto righteousness, 1 Pet 2:24. Are they enabled to do so? Yes: for it is through the Spirit that we mortify the deeds of the body, Rom 8:13. And is the course of their conversation accordingly? Yes: they walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit, Rom 8:1.
Is it our duty to submit to the Spirit as a sanctifier? Yes: Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the works of the flesh, Gal 5:16. And is the grace of God promised us for this purpose? Yes: Sin shall not have dominion over you, Rom 6:14.
Q. 36. What are the benefits which in this life do either accompany or flow from justification, adoption, and sanctification?
A. The benefits which in this life do either accompany or flow from justification, adoption, and sanctification, are, assurance of God's love, peace of conscience, joy in the Holy Ghost, increase of grace, and perseverance therein to the end.
36.1. Are they that are justified happy in this life? Yes: for being justified by faith, we have peace with God, Rom 5:1. And are they so that are adopted? Yes: Beloved now are we the sons of God, 1 John 3:2. And are they so that are sanctified? Yes: for to the pure all things are pure, Titus 1:15.
36.2. May they have an assurance of God's love? Yes: Ye know that ye have eternal life, 1 John 5:13. Is the Spirit the author of that assurance? Yes: the Spirit itself bears witness with our spirits, that we are the children of God, Rom 8:16. Is it wrought by evidences? Yes: hereby we know that we know him, if we keep his commandments, 1 John 2:3. Do all believers attain this assurance? No: some walk in darkness, and have no light, Isa 50:10. But should they labour after it? Yes: Show the same diligence unto the full assurance of hope unto the end, Heb 6:11. And is it an unspeakable comfort? Yes: for the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts through the Holy Ghost, Rom 5:5. And is it just cause for triumph? Yes: I know whom I have believed, 2 Tim 1:12.
36.3. Is peace of conscience a precious privilege? Yes: for if our hearts condemn us not, then have we confidence towards God, 1 John 3:21. Is it the fruit of grace? Yes: for the work of righteousness shall be peace, and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever, Isa 32:17. Has Christ left it as a legacy to his disciples? Yes: Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you, John 14:27. Can those who are unjustified have this peace? No: There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked, Isa 57:21. Should those that are justified labour after it? Yes: Return to thy rest, O my soul, Ps 116:7. Should this peace govern us? Yes: Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, Col 3:15. And will it preserve us? Yes: The peace of God shall keep your hearts and minds, Phil 4:7. And will it be our comfort in the day of evil? Yes: our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, 2 Cor 1:12. Is it therefore our interest to secure it? Yes: Herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence, Acts 24:16.
36.4. May those who are justified have joy in the Holy Ghost? Yes: for believing we rejoice with joy unspeakable, and full of glory, 1 Pet 1:8. Have they cause for joy? Yes: for gladness is sown for the upright in heart, Ps 97:11. Is it their duty to rejoice? Yes: Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say, rejoice, Phil 4:4. Is it their interest to rejoice? Yes: for the joy of the Lord is their strength, Neh 8:10. May they rejoice in all conditions? Yes: for we glory in tribulations also, Rom 5:3. And is this a superlative joy? Yes: it is gladness in the heart more than in the time that their corn and wine increased, Ps 4:7.
36.5. Is grace growing? Yes: He that hath clean hands shall be stronger and stronger, Job 17:9. Is it so in its nature? Yes: for it is as the shining light, which shines more and more unto the perfect day, Prov 4:18. Is it our duty to grow in grace? Yes: Grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, 2 Pet 3:18. And may we rest in what we have attained? No: but press forward towards the mark, Phil 3:14. Is it promised to all believers that they shall grow? Yes: for to him that hath shall be given, Matt 25:29. Will the grace of God make them grow? Yes: I will be as the dew unto Israel, he shall grow as the lily, Hos 14:5
36.6. Shall true believers persevere to the end? Yes: for he that hath begun a good work will perform it, Phil 1:6. Will hypocrites persevere? No: these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away, Luke 8:13. Does it appear by their apostasy that they never were sincere? Yes: they went out from us because they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us, 1 John 2:19. But shall any that are justified finally fall away? No: for whom he justified, them he glorified, Rom 8:30. Is every fall a falling away? No: for though he falls he shall not be utterly cast down, Ps 37:24. May the appearances of grace be lost? Yes: from him shall be taken away even that which he seemed to have, Luke 8:18. But can true grace be finally lost? No: it is that good part which shall never be taken away, Luke 10:24. Will God recall his gifts? No: the gifts and callings of God are without repentance, Rom 11:26. Will he secure them? Yes: we are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation, 1 Pet 1:5 and 1 Pet 5:7. Is the perseverance of the saints secured by the divine power? Yes: No man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hands, John 10:29. And by the divine providence? Yes: for he will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able, 1 Cor 10:13. And by the divine grace? Yes: I will put my fear in their hearts, that they shall not depart from me, Jer 32:40. And by the intercession of Christ? Yes: I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not, Luke 22:32. And by the indwelling of the Spirit? Yes: The anointing which you have received, abideth in you, 1 John 2:27. And by the stability of the promise? Yes: my covenant will I not break, Ps 89:34. May they be secure then? No: Be not highminded, but fear, Rom 11:20. But may they be encouraged? Yes: he will preserve me to his heavenly kingdom, 2 Tim 4:18.
Q. 37. What benefits do believers receive from Christ at death?
A. The souls of believers are at their death made perfect in holiness, and do immediately pass into glory; and their bodies being still united to Christ, do rest in their graves till the resurrection.
37.1. Is the happiness of believers confined to this present life? No: if in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable, 1 Cor 15:19. Is the best of their happiness in this life? No: for in the world ye shall have tribulation, John 16:33. Must they die as well as others? Yes: it is appointed unto men once to die, Heb 9:27. Must the best and most useful die? Yes: the righteous perisheth, and merciful men are taken away, Isa 57:1. Ought they then to wait for it? Yes: All the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change come, Job 14:14. And to prepare for it? Yes: Therefore be ye also ready, Matt 24:44.
37.2. Is death loss to a good Christian? No: for to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain, Phil 1:21. Should it therefore be a terror? No: for the righteous hath hope in his death, Prov 14:32. Does God take special care of the death of his people? Yes: for precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints, Ps 116:15. Is death in the covenant? Yes: All is yours, whether life or death, 1 Cor 3:22. Can it separate them from the love of God? No: neither death nor life can do that, Rom 8:38.
37.3. Are believers perfect in holiness in this life? No: I have not yet attained, neither am already perfect, Phil 3:12. Are their souls made perfect at death? Yes: the spirits of just men are made perfect, Heb 12:23. Are they delivered from sin? Yes: he that is dead is freed from sin, Rom 6:7. Are they made perfect in knowledge? Yes: Then shall I know, even as also I am known, 1 Cor 13:12. And perfect in holiness? Yes: for they are come to the perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ, Eph 4:13. Might they pass into glory without being made perfect in holiness? No: for corruption cannot inherit incorruption, 1 Cor 15:50. Being made perfect in holiness, are they confirmed in it? Yes: He that is holy, let him be holy still, Rev 22:11.
37.4. Do the souls of believers at death sleep with their bodies? No: for when
we are absent from the body, we are present with the Lord, 2 Cor 5:8. Do they go to Christ? Yes: Having a desire to depart and to be with Christ, Phil 1:23. And will he receive them? Yes: Lord Jesus, receive my spirit, Acts 7:59. Shall they be where he is? Yes: That where I am there ye may be also, John 14:3. Will they be with him in heaven? Yes: We have a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens, 2 Cor 5:1. Do they pass into this glory at death? Yes: That when ye fail ye may be received into everlasting habitations, Luke 16:9. Do they immediately pass into it? Yes: This day shalt thou be with me in paradise, Luke 23:43. Are they guarded by angels thither? Yes: he was carried by angels into Abraham's bosom, Luke 16:22. Are they happy then in their death? Yes: Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord, Rev 14:13. Happier than in life? Yes: The day of their death is better than the day of their birth, Eccles 7:1. And is their end peace? Yes: Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright, for the end of that man is peace, Ps 37:37.
37.5. Is death gain to the wicked man? No: for when a wicked man dies, his expectation shall perish, Prov 11:7. Is it therefore a terror to the wicked? Yes: this night thy soul shall be required of thee, Luke 12:20. Do the souls of the wicked, at death go into torment? Yes: the rich man died, and was buried, and in hell he lifted up his eyes, being in torment, Luke 16:22-23. Do they go away under the guilt of their sins? Yes: If ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins, John 8:24. Is it a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God? Yes: for our God is a consuming fire, Heb 12:29. Are the souls of believers distinguished from them? Yes: But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave, Ps 49:15.
37.6. Are the bodies of believers well provided for at death? Yes: for the Lord is for the body, 1 Cor 6:13. May they be cheerfully committed to the grave? Yes: My flesh also shall rest in hope, Ps 16:9. Do they still remain united to Christ? Yes: for they sleep in Jesus, 1 Thess 4:14. Do they rest in their graves? Yes: for there the weary be at rest, Job 3:17. Is the grave a good Christian's bed? Yes: He shall enter into peace, they shall rest in their beds, Isa 57:2. May the saints triumph over the grave then? Yes: O grave where is thy victory? 1 Cor 15:55. And need they to fear no evil in it? No: for the sucking child shall play upon the hole of the asp, Isa 11:8. Are all who are regenerate delivered from the second death? Yes: Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection, on such the second death shall have no power, Rev 20:6.
37.7. Shall the dead be raised again? Yes: there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and of the unjust, Acts 24:15. Shall the same body be raised again? Yes: Though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God, Job 19:26. Shall it be done by the power of Christ? Yes: for as in Adam all die, so in Christ shall all be made alive, 1 Cor 15:22 Shall there be a vast difference between the godly and the wicked at the resurrection? Yes: for some shall awake to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt, Dan 12:2. Has Christ himself assured us of this? Yes: the hour is coming when all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, and shall come forth; they that have done good unto the resurrection of life, and they that have done evil to the resurrection of condemnation, John 5:28-29. Is it certain when this shall be? Yes: for he hath appointed a day, Acts 17:31. But is it known to us? No: for of that day and hour knoweth no man, Mark 13:32.
Q. 38. What benefits do believers receive from Christ at the resurrection?
A. At the resurrection, believers being raised up in glory, shall be openly acknowledged and acquitted in the day of judgment, and made perfectly blessed in the full enjoyment of God to all eternity.
38.1. Shall the dead bodies of believers be raised? Yes: For the dead shall be raised, 1 Cor 15:52. Is it possible that
the same body should return to life again? Yes: Why should it seem a thing incredible with you that God should raise the dead? Acts 26:8. Is it certain that they shall be raised? Yes: for if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen, 1 Cor 15:13. Has Christ undertaken for the resurrection of believers? Yes: I am the resurrection and the life, John 11:15. Are they in error who deny it? Yes: Ye do err, not knowing; the Scriptures, nor the power of God, Matt 22:29.
38.2. Shall the believer's body be raised up in glory? Yes: it is sown in dishonour, it is raised in glory, 1 Cor 15:43. Shall it be the glory of Christ's glorified body? Yes: he shall change our vile bodies, that they may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, Phil 3:21. Shall they be raised by virtue of their union with Christ? Yes: Together with my dead body shall they arise, Isa 26:19. Shall they be raised to such a life as we now live? No: for in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, Matt 22:30. Shall they be raised to an immortal life? Yes: for this mortal must put on immortality, 1 Cor 15:53. Shall they that are found alive be changed? Yes: Behold, I show you a mystery, we shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 1 Cor 15:51.
38.3. Shall all the saints at that day be brought to Jesus Christ? Yes: at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ there shall be a gathering together unto him, 2 Thess 2:1. Shall they be separated from the wicked? Yes: as the Shepherd divideth the sheep from the goats, Matt 25:32. Shall all the saints be then together? Yes: for he shall gather his elect from the four winds, Matt 24:31. And none but saints? Yes: for he shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, Matt 13:41. And saints made perfect? Yes: for then that which is perfect is come, 1 Cor 13:10. Shall they attend upon Christ at his coming? Yes: Behold the Lord cometh with ten thousand of his saints, Jude 14. Shall they be assessors with him in his judgment? Yes: for the saints shall judge the world, 1 Cor 6:2.
38.4. Shall they be openly acknowledged in the day of judgment? Yes: Him will I confess before my Father which is in heaven, Matt 10:32. Will God own them as his own? Yes: They shall be mine, saith the Lord, in that day when I make up my jewels, Mal 3:17. And will that be their honour? Yes: If any man serve me, him will my Father, honour, John 12:26. Shall they be openly acquitted? Yes: for their sins shall be blotted out when the times of refreshing come, Acts 3:19.
38.5. Shall the wicked be condemned then? Yes: he shall say to them on his left hand, Depart from me. Shall they be sent away with a blessing? No: Depart ye cursed. Shall they go into a place of ease? No: into fire. Into ordinary fire? No: into fire prepared. Shall it be for a short time? No: but into everlasting fire. Shall they have good company? No: but the devil and his angels, Matt 25:41. Will the salvation of the saints aggravate their condemnation? Yes: for they shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven, Luke 13:28.
38.6. Shall the saints at the day of judgment be put in possession of eternal life? Yes: the righteous into life eternal, Matt 25:46. Shall they be blessed? Yes: Come, ye blessed of my Father, Matt 25:34. Shall they be perfectly blessed? Yes: for in thy presence is fulness of joy, Ps 16:11. Shall there be any sin in heaven? No: for they are as the angels of God in heaven, Matt 22:30. Shall there be any sorrow there? No: for God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes, Rev 21:4. Shall there be any dying there? No: there shall be no more death, Rev 21:4.
38.7. Is heaven a place of rest? Yes: there remaineth a rest for the people of God, Heb 4:9. Is it light? Yes: it is the inheritance of the saints in light, Col 1:12. Is it honour? Yes: it is a crown of glory that fades not away, 1 Pet 5:4. Is it wealth? Yes: it is an inheritance incorruptible, 1 Pet 1:4. Is it joy? Yes: Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord, Matt 25:21.
38.8. Shall we in heaven see God? Yes: when he shall appear we shall be like him,
for we shall see him as he is, 1 John 3:2. Shall we see him clearly? Yes: now we see through a glass darkly, but then face to face, 1 Cor 13:12. Shall we enjoy him? Yes: God himself shall be with them, and be their God, Rev 21.
Shall we be satisfied in the vision and fruition of God? Yes: I shall be satisfied when I awake with thy likeness, Ps 17:15. Shall this be everlasting? Yes: So shall we ever be with the Lord, 1 Thess 4:17.
38.9. Is this happiness purchased? Yes: it is the purchased possession, Eph 1:14. Is it promised? Yes: it is eternal life which God, that cannot lie, promised, Titus 1:2. Is it sure to all good Christians? Yes: even the poor in the world, if rich in faith, are heirs of the kingdom, James 2:5. Should we not be solicitous that it may be sure with us? Yes: What shall I do that I may inherit eternal life? Luke 18:18. Should we not then have it much in our eye? Yes: for we look not at the things that are seen, but the things that are not seen, 2 Cor 4:18. And should we not be comforted and encouraged with the prospect of it? Yes: for the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed, Rom 8:18.
Q. 39. What is the duty which God requires of man?
A. The duty which God requires of man is obedience to his revealed will.
39.1. Does God require duty of men? Yes: Now, O Israel, what doth the Lord thy God require of thee, Deut 10:12. Of every man? Yes: He that hath ears to hear, let him hear, Matt 13:9. Has he authority to require duty? Yes: If I be a master, where is my fear, Mal 1:6. Is it fit he should rule us? Yes: for we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture, Ps 100:3. Is it fit we should obey him? Yes: for the borrower is servant to the lender, and the fool is servant to the wise in heart, Prov 22:7; Prov 11:29. Ought we therefore to inquire what our duty is? Yes: teach me, O Lord, the way of thy statutes, Ps 119:33.
39.2. Has God made known his will concerning our duty? Yes: He showeth his word unto Jacob, his statutes and his judgments unto Israel, Ps 147:19. Are we to obey it? Yes: Thou shalt obey the voice of the Lord thy God, and do his commandments, Deut 27:10. Is that obedience the condition of our acceptance? Yes: Obey my voice, and I will be your God, Jer 7:23. Is obedience to God reasonable? Yes: it is our reasonable service, Rom 12:1. Is it easy? Yes: for his commandments are not grievous, 1 John 5:3. And will it be acceptable? Yes: for to obey is better than sacrifice, 1 Sam 15:22.
39.3. Must our obedience to God be sincere? Yes: hear the Lord, and serve him in sincerity, and in truth, Josh 24:14. Must it be universal? Yes: Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments, Ps 119:6. Must it be with delight? Yes: I delight in the law of God after the inward man, Rom 7:22. Must it be constant? Yes: Be thou in the fear of the Lord all the day long, Prov 23:17. Must God's commands take place of men's? Yes: We ought to obey God rather than men, Acts 5:29 and Acts 4:19.
39.4. Should we therefore labour to know the will of God? Yes: Understand what the will of the Lord is, Eph 5:17. Are we to study his secret will? No: for secret things belong not to us. But his revealed will? Yes: for things revealed belong to us, and to our children, that we may do all the words of this law, Deut 29:29. Is obedience to God's revealed will the whole duty of man? Yes: let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man, Eccles 12:13.
Q. 40. What did God at first reveal to man for the rule of his obedience?
A. The rule which God at first revealed to man for his obedience, was the moral law.
40.1. Was the moral law revealed to man in innocency? Yes: for God created man in his own image, Gen 1:27. Is it written in the heart of man? Yes: They show the work of the law written in their heart, Rom 2:15. Is there then a law of nature? Yes: Doth not even nature itself teach you? 1 Cor 11:14. Is that
a law of God? Yes: for he openeth the ears of men, and sealeth their instruction, Job 33:16. Does natural conscience enforce that law? Yes: for the Gentiles which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, Rom 2:14. Did the Gentiles sin by the breach of that law? Yes: what they know naturally, in these things they corrupt themselves, Jude 10. And will they be punished for the breach of it? Yes: they that have sinned without law, shall perish without law, Rom 2:12.
40.2. Has God given us the moral law more fully? Yes: I have written unto them the great things of my law, Hos 8:12. Are we under that law as a covenant? No: for a man is not justified by the works of the law, Gal 2:16. Are we under it as a rule? Yes: we are under the law to Christ, 1 Cor 9:21.
40.3. Is the law of God very extensive? Yes: Thy commandment is exceeding broad, Ps 119:96. And very excellent? Yes: the law is holy, and the commandment is holy, and just, and good, Rom 7:12. Is it admirable? Yes: Thy testimonies are wonderful, Ps 119:129. Is any thing unjust in it? No: I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right, Ps 119:128. Is it beyond any other law? Yes: what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgments so righteous, Deut 4:8.
40.4. Does the law of God bind the inward man? Yes: for the law is spiritual, Rom 7:14. Does it forbid heart sins? Yes: Wash thy heart from wickedness, Jer 4:14. Does it require heart service? Yes: My son, give me thy heart, Prov 23:26. Does the law show us our way? Yes: it is a light to our feet, Ps 119:105. Does it discover sin to us? Yes: by the law is the knowledge of sin, Rom 3:20. Does it warn us concerning sin and duty? Yes: by them is thy servant warned, Ps 19:11. Does it show us the need of Christ? Yes: the law was our schoolmaster, to bring us to Christ, Gal 3:24. And does Christ do that for us which the law could not? Yes: Christ is the end of the law for righteousness, Rom 10:4.
40.5. Ought we to love the law of God? Yes: I love thy commandments above gold, Ps 119:127. And to consult it upon all occasions? Yes: Thy testimonies are my delight, and my counsellors, Ps 119:24. And to confirm it? Yes: We must walk in the law of the Lord, Ps 119:1.