The Life and Death of Vavasor Powell, Treatise

The Life and Death of Vavasor Powell · Treatise

p. 20A CONFESSION OF FAITH. Drawn up by Mr. VAVASOUR POWELL, Concerning the Holy Scriptures.

THE Holy Scriptures, containing the Old and New Teſtament, or the writings o… the Prophets, Evangeliſts, and Apoſtles, (commonly called the Bible) are the Written word of God; which (beſides the plain Teſtimony of Scripture, in many places thus witneſſing of it ſelf) doth moſt fully and convincingly appear, by conſidering that what in Matthew is called the command, Mat. 15.6. That in Mark is ſtiled, The word of God, Mark 7.13. and the like may be obſerved, in comparing Deut. 30.11, 14. with Rom. 10.8. where the Greek word foreign which the Apoſtle uſeth, and is tranſlated the Word, is never taken for Chriſt, but very often for the Command on Threatning, or Promiſe of God; in which ſenſe it is called the Word of God.

2. Not only the outward Letter, but the true p. 21ſenſe and meaning of Scripture is to be accounted Scripture; which appears from 1 Cor. 14, 34. Epb. 5.14. Heb. 12.21. Jam. 4.5. Where ſome things are ſaid to be written, which in expreſs and plain words are not written, but by good and clear evidence collected thence.

3. The Scriptures were written, as primarily for Gods glory, ſo alſo that men might be enlightned, converted, comforted and have Hope and Eternal life by Believing, 2 Tim. 3.14, 15, 16. Neither do they concern, or were written for the uſe of former Ages and Perſons onelyonly; but belong to all Ages and Perſons, even to the end of the world, Revelat. 2.3.

4. The Scripture contains Milk for Babes, and Meat for them that are ſtrong, 1 Cor. 3.2. Heb. 5.13, 14. And though there be ſome dark places, hard to be undetſtood, 2 Pet, 3.16. Yet what is neceſſary to ſalvation is plain, and may be underſtood by the ſimpleſt and unlearnedeſt of the true Diſciples of Chriſt who are taught by the Spirit of God, Deut. 29.29. Prov. 6, 23. & 8.8, 9. & 28.5. Mat. 13.10. 1 Cor. 2.15. 1 Joh. 2.20, 27. whereas thoſe that otherwiſe may be very learned, yet have not this ſpirit, they underſtand not the Scriptures; but erre and wreſt them to their own and others Deſtruction, Iſa. 29.11. John 7.48, 52. 1 Cor. 2.8, 14. Mat, 22.29. 2 Pet. 3.16.

5. This word, or Scripture, is the abſolute, certain and infallible Rule of Faith, and Life or Obedience; by which all Spirits, Doctrines, Men, and works to be tryed; and no other writings whatſoever, (though written by the moſt knowing and holieſt of men) are to be eſteemed of equall authority, infallibility, and Divine Majeſty with theſe, Luke 16.31. 1 Iohn 4.1. Iſa. 8.20. And the Holy Scripture, next to the Spirit p. 22of God who gave it forth, 2 Pet. l. 19.20, 21. is ſhe beſt interpreter of it ſelf; All Preaching is to be out of, and according to it, and nothing to be impoſed upon or binding of the Conſciences of any, but what is contained therein or agreeable thereunto, 1 Cor. 2.13. Jer. 23.28. Mat. 28.19. Act. 18.28. & 28.23. Neither is there any thing to be added to or taken from the Scripture upon pain of everlaſting damnation, — Prov. 30.5, 6. Gal. 3.15. Revel. 22.18, 19.

The Principal Doctrines which are declared, and I have received from the Scriptures — are Concerning God.

There is but one, true, living God, Deut. 6.4. John 17.3. 1 Theſ. 1.9. &c. of whom, to whom, and through whom are all things, Rom. 11.36. 1 Cor. 8.6. Eph. 4.6. The only Potentate, 1 Tim. 6.15. To whom be Honour and Peace everlaſting. Amen.

2. This God is a Spirit Eternal, Immortal, Inviſible, moſt abundant in goodneſs, mercy and truth, to all that love and fear him, John 4.24. 1 Tim. 1.17. Exod. 34.6. Neh. 9.6. and a rewarder to them that diligently ſeek him, Heb. 11.6. But moſt juſt, dreadful and terrible to thoſe that hate him, and a conſuming fire to ſuch as go on in their wickedneſs. Mat. 1.15. Exod. 20.5. Heb. 12.29. Pſal. 68.21.

3. This One God is diſtinguiſhed into the Father, the Word (or Son) and the Holy Spirit, Mat. 3.16, 17, & 28.19. 2 Cor. 13.14. Which are not three Gods, but one God, 1 John 5.7. 1 Cor. 12.4, 5, 6. The Father begetting, Pſal. 2.7., Heb. 1.5. The Son begotten, and brought up with the Father from everlaſting, Prov. 8.22, 23, 24, 30. Micha 5.2. John 1.1. & 17.24. and the holy Spirit p. 23proceeding from both, John 14.26. & 15.26. Gal. 4.6.

Concerning the Lord Ieſus Chriſt the Son of God.

The Word, or the Son of God the Lord Jeſus Chriſt, is Jehovah, Gen. 13.7, 16. & 18.1, 2. & 22.11, 14. Exod. 19.14. with Heb. 12.27. Iſa. 6.1. with Iohn 12.41. Iſa. 45.23. with Rom. 14.10, 11. The True and Mighty, yea Almighty God, 1 Ioh. 5, 20. Iſa. 9.6. Tit. 2.13. Iohn 1.1, 2, 3. Equal and One with God, Iohn 5.18. Phil. 2.6 Iohn 10.30: & 17.22. He knoweth and diſcerneth the Thoughts and Hearts of all men, Mat. 9.3, 4. & 12.25. John 2.25. Heb. 4.12. Which evidently (with many other undeniable Arguments) prove him to be very God, of the ſame Subſtance and Being with the Father; for none but God can know the Heart, 1 King. 8.39. Jer. 17.10.

Concerning the Holy Spirit.

As the Lord Chriſt the Son, ſo likewiſe the holy Spirit is God, Acts 5.3, 4. 1 Cor. 6.19, 20. 2 Cor. 3.17. Acts 28.25. with Iſa. 6.8.11, 12. In the 8th, verſe of which Chapter, the word Ʋs (noting Father, Son, and Spirit, as alſo Gen. 1.26.) is called Jehovah, v. 12. ſhewing that the Son and Spirit are the Lord Jehovah, which ſignifies, as the Greek renders it, Ex. 3. 'O… — One that hath his being of himſelf— or as is more fully rendred, Rev. 1.4, 8. Who is, was, and is to come.

p. 24Concerning Gods Decrees.

God to whom all his Works and People were known and foreſeen from everlaſting, Acts 15.18. and who worketh all things according to the Counſel of his Will, Eph. 1.11, did Determine and Ordain all things that ſhould come to paſs in time, Acts 2.23. & 4.28. & 17.26. according to his own good pleaſure and purpoſe, Eph. 1.5, 9.

Concerning Election

God of his own meer love, before the foundation of the world, did predeſtinate and Elect in Jeſus Chriſt a certain number (known only to himſelf) as well of Angels, as of Mankind, to be to the praiſe of his Grace, and to obtain Everlaſting Salvation through Jeſus Chriſt, Rom. 11.5. Eph. 1.4. 1 Pet. 1.2. 2 Tim. 2.19. 1 Tim. 5.21. Eph. 1.6. 1 Theſ. 5.9. To whom God alſo in Chriſt hath given his grace, and promiſed everlaſting life before the world began, 2 Tim. 1.9. Tit. 1.2, And all theſe that are ſo choſen, are written in the Lambs Book of Life, ſhall certainly be ſaved, and cannot finally be deceived or fall away, Rev. 13.8. & 20.15. Phil. 4.3. Luke 10.20. Rom. 8.29, 30, 33, 38, 39. Mat. 24.24. Rom. 11.7. John 6.37, &c.

2. Such of Mankind as were Predeſtinated and Elected before time, were Predeſtinated and Elected unto to the Adoption of Children, that thorough (not for, nor without) Real Sanctification, Sprinkling of the Blood of Jeſus, and Belief of the Truth, they might be ſaved, Eph. 1.4, 5. Rom. 8.29, 30. 2 Theſ. 2.13. 1 Pet. 1.2.

p. 25Concerning Reprobation.

All thoſe that were not elected to Salvation, as well Angels as Men, were by God (for the glory of his Sovereign Power and Juſtice) ordained of old to Condemnation, or to be dealt with according to Gods Juſtice for, and according to, their ſins, 2 Pet. 2.3, 4. Jude v. 4.6. Rom. 9.22. Prov. 16.4. Job 21.30. Jer. 6.30.

Concerning Creation.

That God, the Father, Son, and Spirit, did make the World, and all the things therein, Viſible and inviſible, for himſelf according to his pleaſure, and that very good: and Man (or Adam) in particular Perfect, and after his own Image, Gen. 1 Eccleſ. 7.29, &c.

Concerning the Fall of Man.

Some of the Angels (now called Devils) ſinned, and kept not their firſt Eſtate; 2 Pet. 2.4. Jude verſe. 6. John 8.44. And Adam (comprehending alſo Eve) ſinned, and all mankind in him; whereby all are become ſinners, and under the Judgement of God, and by that one ſin ſubject to Death, Bodily, Spiritual, and Eternal: and all, as well the Elect as others, are born in ſin, and are by Nature the Children of Wrath, under the Law and Curſe; out of which condition, no man can redeem himſelf, or his Brother, Gen. 3. Rom. 5. Pſalm 51.5. Job. 25.4. Epheſ. 2.2. Gal. 3.10. Pſal. 49.7.

p. 26Concerning the promiſe of Salvation by Chriſt.

Immediately upon the Fall of Adam, God made a Promiſe of his Son, the Seed of the Woman, Gen. 3.15. And afterwards often before the Law, made and renewed a Covenant with Abraham, and the Fathers, (called the Goſpel, Gal: 3.8.) concerning him, how all Nations (that is, all Believers) as well Gentiles as Jews, ſhould be bleſſed; that is, juſtified and ſaved through and by him, Gen. 12. & 17. & 22. Rom. 4. Gal. 3. And therefore the Law that was given after, was neither intended, nor able to diſannull the Promiſe (or that Covenant) nor to give Life and Salvation to any, Gal. 3. Rom. 3. & 4.

Concerning the Lord Chriſt, and thoſe that are Redeemed by him.

1. The Son of God did often appear, both in the likeneſs of an Angel, and of a man, before and under the Law, Gen. 16. & 22. Exod. 3. Ioſh. 5. Iude. 2.1. & 6.11, 14. & 13.6.22. He was alſo clearly repreſented by many Types and Figures; by Men, ſc. Adam, Abel, Noah, Abraham, Iſaac, Joſeph, David, Solomon, &c. The Firſt-born, the Firſt-fruits, Sacrifices, and by many other things, Col. 2.17. Rom. 5.14. Heb. 8.1. & 9.11, 12.

2. All the Prophets did clearly propheſie of him: and ſome of them in particular, that he ſhould proceed from David, out of the Tribe of Judah, be born in Bethlehem, of a Virgin; yea the very time when he ſhould be born was alſo foretold; and that he ſhould be a Prophet, Prieſt, and King; a Judge and Saviour to his people; that he ſhould Die, Riſe up again, Aſcend up into Heaven, ſit upon Gods Right Hand, make p. 27Interceſſion, give Gifts unto men, and come again to judge the world; the fulfilling of which, the Hiſtory of the New Teſtament doth plainly and fully ſhew; ſo that there is a ſweet and exact Harmony and Conſent between that and the Old Teſtament herein, Luke 24.25, 26, 27. & 45, 46, 47. Acts 3.18, 21, & 10.43. & 13.39, &c.

3. In the fulneſs of Time appointed and promiſed by the Father. God out of his own free and great love ſent this his only begotten Son into the world, Gal. 4.4. Eph. 1.10. John 3.16. Rom. 8.32. And the Lord Jeſus Chriſt out of the like love willingly came into the world, took upon him the Nature of Man (or the ſeed of Abraham) and the Form of a Servant, being made like unto his Brethren, and in all points Tempted (or Tryed) as we are, yet without ſin; yet being made ſin, and a curſe for his people, he dyed a ſhamefull and a curſed death, bearing as well the wrath of God upon his ſoul. as painful Puniſhment from men upon his body. Eph. 5.2. Phil. 2.7. Hebrews 2.14, 17. 2 Cor. 5.21. Col. 3.13. Matthew 26. & 27, &c.

4. The Lord Jeſus Chriſt, by dying and offering up himſelf as a Sacrifice to God the Father, through the eternal Spirit, hath perfectly ſatisfied for the ſins of all that were ſaved before his coming in the fleſh, or that ſhall be ſaved hereafter; having alſo reconciled them to God his Father, and procured everlaſting redemption for them, Rom. 5.9. Col. 1.21, 22. Heb. 9.12, 14, &c.

5. All thoſe for whom Chriſt dyed, for them he roſe again, appeared in Heaven, and continually makes Interceſſion for; which he doth not do for all, but for thoſe that God the Father choſe in him, and gave unto him to be his Body, his Church, his Children, Friends and Flock, John 10. & 15. & 17, Heb. 2. Eph. 1. p. 2814. &c. And when mention is made of his dying for the world. 1 Tim. 2.5. John 6.51. 1 John 2.2. &c. It is to be underſtood, as when Abraham is ſaid to be Heir of the world, Rom. 4.13. that is, of all Believers in every nation throughout the world, John 11.51, 52. John 17.9, 19.

6. There is no other Mediator between God and Man, but only the Lord Chriſt, nor no other Foundation can be laid beſides him, neither is there Salvation in, or through any other, but in and through him alone; neither can any be accepted, juſtified, or ſaved (either in whole, or in part) by the Law, or by their own Righteouſneſs and Works, 1 Tim. 2.5. 1 Cor. 3.10, 11. Acts 4.11, 12. Rom. 3.4, & 5. Phil, 3.8, 9. Gal. 2.16. & 3. &c.

Concerning Justification and Juſtifying Faith.

1. All the Elect of God were gathered into Chriſt, and their ſins laid upon him, and he by his own Perfect and Perſonal Obedience, without them, made full ſatisfaction unto God for them and their ſins, and they were accepted and virtually juſtified in him as their Head and Repreſenter, before they did actually believe; as they were ſinners in the firſt Adam, before they actually committed ſins themſelves; as upon the payment of the Debt by a Surety, the Debtor is as really and truly diſcharged, as if he had paid it with his own hand; and Chriſt their Surety being juſtified at his Reſurrection (as the Apoſtle ſpeaks, 1 Tim. 3.16) muſt be juſtified alſo from that Debt which was theirs (for he had none of his own, Dan. 9.26. 1 Pet. 2.22, 24.) and ſo conſequently they muſt be juſtified in him. Thus the Apoſtle plainly affirms — God was in Chriſt (i. e. at the time of his Death; for p. 29with reference to that doth the Apoſtle there ſpeak) reconciling the world, (i. e. that World, as was mentioned before, whereof Abraham was heir; viz. the Elect, both Jews and Gentiles, Rom. 11.12.15.) not imputing to them their Treſpaſſes; 2 Cor. 5.19. ſo the ſame Apoſtle in another place, ſaith Who ſhall lay any thing to the charge of Gods Elect? (meaning hereby all the Elect, as well ſuch as are to believe hereafter, as thoſe who do believe already) it is God who juſtifieth, who is he that condemneth? it is Chriſt that dyed — Rom. 8.33, 34. And Chriſt prayed on Earth, as well for thoſe that were to believe, as for thoſe that were already Actually Believers — Iohn 17.20. And all Elect Children that dye in their Infancy, muſt be ſo Juſtified from Original ſin, for they cannot actually believe.

2. Notwithſtanding that Virtual juſtification, which the Elect have in their Head Chriſt, as they are conſidered members of his Body, and Part of the Univerſal Church; yet the Scripture ſhews that there muſt be, after they are called by the preaching of the Goſpel, a perſonal and (as I may call it) an actual Juſtification of every one that is to be ſaved, Rom. 8.30. and that by Faith only, without Works, before God, Rom. 3.23. — 25. Rom. 4.1, — 5. Yet that Faith which juſtifies, cannot be alone, but is accompanied with good Works, which juſtifies Believers before Men, and manifeſts their Faith to be a True and living Faith, Iames 2.17, 18. as the Fruits of Trees do ſhew the nature of them, but are no cauſes of their Root, Life, or Growth.

Juſtification is wholly of Gods Grace, through the Redemption, Righteouſneſs, and Blood of Jeſus Chriſt, Rom. 3.24, 25. whereby thoſe who truly believe in him have all their ſins forgiven, which will never be imputed, nor remembred againſt p. 30them any more — Romans 3.22, 26. Hebr. 10.14.17.

True Faith alſo, by which the ſoul looks on Chriſt, takes hold on him, receives him, becomes one with him, and whereby Chriſt dwells in the Hearts of Believers, is the gift of God, Iohn 6.44, 65. Eph. 2.8. & 3.17.

Concerning the Spirit of Adoption and Regeneration.

1. All thoſe that truly believe, God gives unto them Power (or rather as the word foreign ſignifies, Right or Priviledge) to become his children, Iohn 1.12. and they receive the Spirit of Adoption, by which they are led, and enabled to come with confidence and boldneſs unto God, and to call him Father, through Ieſus Chriſt, Rom. 8.14.15. Gal. 4.5, 6. The ſpirit it ſelf alſo dwells and abides in them, as the chiefeſt evidence of their being the children of God, — Iohn 14.16, 17. Rom. 8.16. 1 John 4.13.

2. Regeneration, Sanctification, and Repentance, (which are the ſame in effect) is a renewing of the Heart, and a ſubduing and cleanſing of the Power and Filth of ſin, with a quickning of the ſoul to live like Chriſt; theſe are abſolutely neceſſary to ſalvation, John. 3.3, 5. Rom. 6, &c. Yet theſe alſo, as well as Faith, are the gifts and works of God, which he giveth through and for the ſake of his Son, and works by his Spirit in thoſe whom he intends to ſave, Ezek. 36.26, 27, 28. Acts 11.18, &c.

3. No man (much leſs all men) hath by nature, or before his converſion, either the Spiritual light, or true Faith, or Chriſt, or his Spirit in them, or a will or love to that which is ſpiritually good, or power to come to Chriſt, or to be ſubject to his Law and Will; p. 31but by nature and before converſion, the beſt are blind, unbelieving, without Chriſt, and without the Spirit, unwilling, wilful, weak and wicked, John 3.5, 6. Rom. 5.6. & 8.7. Eph. 2.1, 2, &c. Yet ſinning againſt the Light and Law of Nature, and not worſhipping God according to what is revealed of him, by the works of Creation, they are left inexcuſable, Rom. 1.20, 21.

Concerning Redemption from the Curſe of the Law.

All true Believers are really and actually redeemed from the Curſe and power (or Dominion) of the Law, and are under Grace, or the Bleſſings, Promiſes, and Privileges of the Covenant of Grace, both Temporal and Eternal, — Rom. 6.14. & 7, 4, 6. Gal, 3.13. On the contrary, all Unbelievers and wicked perſons are, and remain under the Law and Covenant of works, Gal. 5.4.

Concerning the two Covenants.

From the beginning of the world there have been two Covenants in being, viz. The Covenant of Grace, and the Covenant of works, called the Law and the Goſpel; and all and every perſon in the world have been and are under one of them; the firſt requiring the Obedience of works, the other the Obedience of Faith; and theſe are the conditions of the two Covenants, Rom. 10.4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 11. Heb. 8.7, 8. &c. & 10.15, 16, &c. 22.

p. 32Concerning Perſeverance in Grace.

Thoſe that do truly believe, and are once in and under the New Covenant; and in the true grace of God, as the Apoſtle ſpeaks, Rom. 5.2. cannot abſolutely fall and utterly periſh, for they are paſſed from death to life, John 5.24. they are in Chriſt and God the Fathers hand, John 10.28, 29. they have the Spirit abiding in them unto eternal life, 1 John 3.24. they ſit together in heav…ly places in Chriſt, Eph. 2.5, 6. and he makes interceſſion for them, John. 17.20. and the Decree, Oath, and Promiſes of God are ſure to all the ſeed, Rom. 4.16. that they ſhall not depart from God, Jer. 32.40. 1 Iohn 3.9. and that he will never leave nor forſake them, Heb. 13-5, 6. and that he or every one that believeth, ſhall be ſaved, Mark 16.16. and ſhall not come into condemnation, for there is no condemnation to them that are in Chriſt Jeſus, Rom. 8.1.

Concerning aſſurance of Salvation.

i. Believers are to be exhorted to make their calling and election ſure, 2 Pet. 1.10. and this they may certainly attain unto, for God hath promiſed it, Chriſt hath prayed for it, and many of the Saints have attained unto it, 1 John. 2.3, 5. & 3.14. &c.

2. Though there are many ſigns and evidences of the truth of grace, laid down in the Scripture; and ſuch as Believers may find in themſelves; as, Love to God and to his people; reſpect to all Gods Commands; and hatred to, ſorrow for, and power againſt all in-bred corruption, &c. Yet the chiefeſt and moſt undoubted evidence is the ſpirit it ſelf; 1 Iohn 3.24. & 4.13. and the Witneſs and Sealing of it, Rom. 8.15. Eph. 1.13. which p. 33Believers have moſt commonly after they believe, and not at their firſt believing, Gal. 3.14. and there may be a true Faith mingled with much Doubting, Mat. 14.31. and many of the children of light may walk in darkneſs, and be ignorant of their ſtate, Iſa. 50.10. Yet ſuch bruiſed Reeds God will not break, nor quench ſuch ſmoaking Flax, (i. e. ſuch weak and Doubting Chriſtians, or their Faith) till he bring forth Judgment into victory, or help them to overcome, Mat. 12.20, 21.

3. It is poſſible alſo, that ſuch believers as have attained unto a full Aſſurance, may afterwards (either through the hiding of Gods countenance for Tryal of them; or by falling into ſome great ſin, or by ſome ſore and violent temptation, or through their Remiſsneſs in Religious Duties, or the like) have their Aſſurance darkned, ſhaken, and weakned; and thereby their Souls may be much troubled and diſcomforted, Pſal. 30.7. Cant, 2.1, 2. & 5.2, 3, &c. yet in their darkeſt and moſt doubting condition, they cleave unto the Lord, remember his former dealings, acknowledge theſe doubts to be their Infirmities; and they find and feel ſome workings of the Spirit and Grace within them, and ſtill continue in Prayer and other Ordinances, waiting upon the Lord till he return unto them, revive them, reſtore the joy of his Salvation, and ſettle them in their old Eſtates. as he hath promiſed. For this read Pſal. 22. & 51. & 77. throughout, Lam. 3. Iſa. 8.17. & 50.10. &c.

Concerning Growth and Perſeverance in Grace.

1. Thoſe that have true Grace, whether little or much, they ſhould labour to grow therein, and to add one Grace to another, going from ſtrength to ſtrength, p. 32duplicate page p. 33duplicate page p. 34perfecting holineſs in the fear of God, and ſtill preſſing after the things that are before, endeavouring to be holy, Merciful, and Perfect, as God is, and to walk as Chriſt walked, 2 Pet. 1.8. & 3.18. Phil. 3.11. — 14.2 Cor. 7.1. 1 John 2.6. &c.

2. Though there is to be a preſſing after perfection, as alſo an attaining unto it in ſome ſenſe, as Perfection of Juſtification, and of the Truth of Sanctification; and likewiſe comparatively ſome attain to more Grace than others, who are called foreign, or Perfect, by the Apoſtle, 1 Cor. 2.6. Phil. 3.15. Heb. 5.14. yet the beſt of Gods people, whileſt they are on earth, have ſin in them working in their Members, and they offend in many things; knowing alſo, and doing but in part (as the Apoſtles themſelves acknowledged Paul, Romans. 7. James, Jam. 3.2. Iohn, 1 John 1.) and they that ſay they have no ſin, but are perfect (or without ſin) they will be found perverſe (as Iob ſaith, c. 9.) and they deceive themſelves, and the Truth is not in them, 1 Iohn 1.8, 10.

3. As there is a growing in Grace, ſo there is a perſevering, and continuing, and holding on and out, in the Will, Way, and profeſſion of Chriſt unto the end, without turning to the right hand, or to the left; and without back-ſliding, or halting between Opinions, or being formal and luke-warm in Religion; But ſtriving againſt ſin, and ſeeking to overcome through many ſufferings, and to run our ſpiritual Race, till we finiſh our courſe: for to ſuch doth Chriſt promiſe the Crown of Life, and in his grace and ſtrength alone we muſt overcome; and therefore muſt always depend upon, and humbly implore his help, who is the Finiſher, as well as the Author of our Faith, that we may be able to withſtand all evils, and to ſtand compleat in the will of God, being not high minded, but fearing; nor doubtful-minded, but believing, Matthew 24.13. p. 35Revel. 2.10. & 3.11, 15, 16. Heb. 12.1, 4. Phil. 4.13. Colloſ. 4.12. Rom. 11.20. Luke 12.29, 32.

Concerning Good Works.

1. They that do believe, and are Gods workmanſhip created thereunto, are to be careful to maintain good Works, which tend to the praiſe and glory of God, and the good and profit of men; and are alſo (as was intimated before) evidences of a true and lively faith in God, and of our love both to God and Men, Mat. 5.16. Eph. 2.10. Tit. 3.8, 14. Iam. 2.17, 18, 22. Iohn 14.21. 1 Iohn 3.…7. Gal. 5.6.

2. Thoſe works only are to be accounted good works, which are commanded by God, and agreeable to his Word; and not ſuch as are deviſed and eſteemed by men only to be ſo: and to offer unto God any thing in his ſervice which he requires not, is abominable to him, and Unprofitable and Sinful to them that do it, 1 Kin. 11.7. Ier. 32.35. Mic. 6.6, 7, 8. Mat. 15, 9. Col. 2.20.— 24. Tit. 1.14.

Concerning Baptiſme.

1. Outward Baptiſm, or Water-Baptiſm, is a ſolemn ſignificant dipping into, or waſhing with water the Body in (or into) the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghoſt only, Mat. 28.19. It ſignifies the Death, Burial, and Reſ…r ection of Chriſt, alſo the ſpiritual cleanſing and waſhing of Juſtification, and Regeneration (or Sanctification) together with the Baptiſm, or powri…g forth of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, Rom. 6.3, 4, 5. Col. 2.12. Heb, 10.22.

2. Though Baptiſm be not abſolutely neceſſary to ſalvation, yet being commanded by Chriſt, it is the p. 36duty of all profeſſing and viſible Believers, and penitent perſons: Men and Women, to be Baptized once, and that upon the firſt Believing and Converſion, and before they enter into a particular viſible Church, or partake of the Lords Supper: Acts 2.41, 42. Yet it is not Baptiſm, but an Intereſt in Chriſt, that gives any a Right to either: Neither is it the proper work of Baptiſm to conferr or work grace, but to ſeal, confirm and encreaſe it, 1 Pet. 3.21. much leſs are all thoſe that are Baptized true believers and ſaved, John 3, 3, 5. Acts 8.13, 23,

3. But in this of baptiſm, as in many other caſes, difference in perſwaſion and practiſe may well conſiſt with Brotherly love and Chriſtian communion, ſee Phil, 3.15. Rom. 14, &c.

Concerning Churches and Church-Aſſemblies.

1. It is a Goſpel-Ordinance for Saints to gather themſelves together into Chriſtian ſocieties, or particular Churches, that they may the better perform ſuch duties as they owe unto the Lord, and to one another: and it is the duty of all believers, if poſſibly and conveniently they can, to joyn themſelves unto ſome ſuch Church, and being joyned, to continue members thereof, unleſs ſome neceſſary and good reaſon occaſion the contrary; and then to depart with conſent of the Church of which they are members, Cant. 1.7.8. Acts 2.47 & 9.26, 27, 28 &c.

2. The particular viſible Churches under the Goſpel did not conſiſt of whole Nations, Countries or Cities; nor of the generality and Multitudes of either, but of ſuch Companies (many or few in them) that did receive and profeſs the Doctrine of the Goſpel, were converted and called to be Saints, ſeparated from the p. 37world, both its ſins and ſervices; and united and given up to the Lord, and to one another, to live according to the will of God in all things, Acts 5.12, 13, 14. & 17.4. & 19.8, 9. 1 Cor. 1.2, &c.

3. Such particular Churches had, and ſtill have diſtinct power, each within it ſelf, of admitting and ejecting members, of chooſing their own Officers, and of orde…ing all other matters relating to the Church: and none of them, nor their Officers were charged with the errors and evils of others, unleſs they were among themſelves guilty of the ſame; neither have any of them, or their Officers any power over any other Congregation or Members; yet as thoſe particular Churches are parts of the Univerſal Church or body of Chriſt, which is his fulneſs, ſo they are all to be helpful to one another, and to walk by one and the ſame Rule, Acts 6 5. & 14 23. 1 Cor. 5.12. Rev. 2. & 3. Phil. 3:15, 16 &c.

Concerning Church-Officers.

As Chriſt hath given extraordinary and ordinary Officers, as Apoſtles, Prophets, Evangeliſts, Paſtors and Teachers, for the perfecting of the Saints, for the work of the Miniſtry, and for the edifying of his body (or Church) in general; and this without any limitation of Time, Eph. 4.11, 12. 1 Cor. 12.28, 29 ſo, for the feeding, teaching, ruling and miniſtring to the poor and ſick of the Church, the Lord hath appointed Elders (or Biſhops which in Scripture language are all one, Asts 20.17, 28. Phil. 1.1. Tit. 1.5, 6, 7. and Deacons (and Deaconeſſes) or Widows, Rom. 16.1. 1 Tim. 5.9, 10. with other Helps, who are to be choſen by the Churches themſelves, and ordained as formerly they were, either by Apoſtles, or ſome appointed by them, p. 38as Evangeliſts, or by ſome Teachers in thoſe particular Churches, 1 Tim. 4.14. 2 Tim, 2.2. Tit. 1.5. 1 Tim. 5.21, 22, &c.

Concerning the Lords Supper.

The Lord Chriſt alſo inſtituted and ordained for his Church and Diſciples onelyonly, that eſpecial Ordinance called his Supper, or the Communion of his Body and Blood, to put them in remembrance of his Death, till he came again; and to confirm that ſpiritual Union and Communion they have with him, and as an ordinance to convey more Grace unto their ſouls: And this, together with Baptiſm are, and may be accounted (though not ſo called in Scripture) Goſpel-ſigns and ſeals of the Covenant of Grace; as Circumciſion and the Paſſeover were before unto the Jews, Mat. 26.26, 27, 28, 29. 1 Cor. 10.16. & 11.23, 24, 25, 26. Rom. 4.11. Col, 2.11, 12.

2. The command and example of Chriſt and his Apoſtles, are to be obſerved both in the giving and receiving of this ordinance: After the Bread and Wine are Bleſſed (or ſet apart, and a Bleſſing ſought on them) The Miniſter is to take both of the Bread and Wine himſelf, and to give of both kinds to the Diſciples or Members of the Church, ſitting or leaning, Mat. 26.20, 26. But to give it privately to perſons upon their ſick beds, or to keep back the Wine from the People, or under pretence of humility to give it unto the Congregation kneeling, are contrary to the Inſtitution of Chriſt, ſee Acts 20.7. 1 Cor. 11.20, 23.

3 As the true Churches and Diſciples of Chriſt ſhould often partake of this ordinance, ſo thoſe that are without Chriſt, his Covenant, and Church; who are ignorant, unbelieving, and ungodly, have no right thereto at all: and Chriſt forbids to give holy things to p. 39ſuch; and they that eat and drink the ſame unworthily do both profane and pollute the Name and Ordinance of God, and eat and drink damnation to themſelves, not diſcerning the Lords Body, Acts 2.42. & 20.7. 1 Cor. 11.25, 27, 29, Mat. 7.6.

Concerning Preaching and Prophecying.

Preaching of the Goſpel, or Evangelizing, which is to be to all Nations, and to every creature, is to be performed by ſuch as are gifted, called, and ſent, either immediately by Chriſt (as the Apoſtles, and ſeventy Diſciples were) or by his Church, Acts 13, 1, 2, 3. or, in caſe of Perſecution, by ſuch as are ſcattered Members, to whom God may open a door for the preaching of his word, to ſuch as want the ſame, Acts 8.1, 4. & 11.19 20, 21.

2. Prophecying is another Goſpel-Ordinance; which is either a fore-telling of ſome future things by divine Revelation, which is an extraordinary and peculiar gift of God, yet promiſed, John 16.13. and given to ſeveral in Goſpel-days; Acts 11.27. & 21.9, 10. 1 Cor. 14.26. Eph. 4.11. or elſe it is a ſpeaking unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort: or a teaching of believers to obſerve all things that Chriſt hath commanded: which is a diſtinct thing from Preaching, though of the ſame Nature, and doth more properly and peculiarly belong to the Church, and thoſe that are within, as the other doth to the world, and thoſe that are without, 1 Cor. 14.22. Mat. 28.19, 20. compared with Mark 16.15.

p. 40Concerning Prayer.

Prayer is a ſpecial part of Gods worſhip, being a pouring out of the ſoul in confeſſions, ſupplications, and thankſgivings to God through Chriſt, by the help of his ſpirit, Eph. 6.18. Jude v. 20. 1 Tim. 2.1, 8. &c.

2. Though that moſt excellent and comprehenſive perfect Prayer, that Chriſt taught his Apoſtles, … Directory and Rule to Teach Believers to pray accordingly; and likewiſe that very Prayer may be uſed Verbatim: Yet Chriſt did not impoſe it upon them; nor tye them thereto, neither did Chriſt or his Apostles ever ordain or impoſe any other form: much leſs then ſhould any other Perſons uſurp this authority over the Church and people of God; and therefore all ſuch as make, enjoyn, or obſerve ſuch humane Forms, follow the Traditions of Men, and not the Word of God, ſee 1 Cor. 11.1, 23. 2 Cor, 1.24. Mark 7.6, 7, 8.

Though the Prayers of Unbelievers be abominable to the Lord, becauſe of their ſins, and their being out of Chriſt; yet it's their duty to pray, and it is lawful for believers to pray where Unbelievers are preſent: we find our Saviour himſelf and many of his Saints, uſing divers geſtures in prayer, as kneeling, lying on the face, ſtanding; all very lawfull and acceptable, if the heart be filled with true faith, love, ſincerity, humility, and zeal to God.

p. 41Concerning ſinging of Pſalms, Impoſition of Hands, and other Goſpel ordinances, not yet repeated.

1. Singing of Pſalms (particularly Scripture-Pſalms) Hymns, and Spiritual ſongs, is a continued Goſpel-ordi…ance, and duty; and to be performed by all, but eſpe…ially in the Churches, Mat. 26.30. Eph. 5.18, 19. Col. ….16. &c.

2. Laying on of Hands, is one of the Principles of …he Doctrine of Chriſt, and a Goſpel-ordinance, pra…tiſed in the primitive times, (and not yet abrogated, …s appears by any Scripture) being uſed upon thoſe …hat were ſent out of the Churches to preach the Goſpel… Acts 13.3. or upon believers after their Baptiſme, in order to their receiving the Holy Ghoſt or the gifts thereof, Acts 8.17. & 9.17. & 19.6. or elſe for the healing of the ſick, Acts 28.8, &c.

3. Viſiting of the ſick, and for the elders to anoint them in the name of the Lord, is a Goſpel Ordinance and not repealed, Jam. 5.14, 15.

Concerning Excommunication.

Another Ordinance continued in the Time and Churches of the New Teſtament, is a power given by Chriſt to deal with ſuch members as walk diſorderly, 2 Theſ. 3.6. that refuſe to hear the Church, Mat. 18.17. commit ſome ſcandalous ſin, 1 Cor. 5. or deny and deſtroy the Faith or Fundamentals of Religion. as the Reſurrection, &c. 2 Tim. 2.16.27, 18. & 1 Tim. 2.20.

2. The Ordinance is to be ſolemnly performed in the name of Chriſt, by the whole Congregation (yet p. 42miniſterially by the Officers thereof) and according to the nature of the offence, whether by Admonition without Ejection, 1 Theſ. 5.14. or Ejection and caſting out, till repentance manifeſts it ſelf in the excommunicated Perſon, and then he is to be reſtored, 1 Cor. 5. with 2 Cor. 2.6, 7, 8. or elſe a… utter and abſolute excommunication, and rejectin… of the Perſon, till the coming of Chriſt, 1 Corin… 16.22.

Concerning Magiſtrates and Rulers.

1. Magiſtracy is an Ordinance of God, and Ruler or Magiſtrates (whether ſupream or ſubordinate) an… Gods Miniſters, Reigning by, under, and for him, entruſted with the ſword of Juſtice, for the encouragement and praiſe of ſuch as do well, but a terror to evi… works, or a revenger, and executor of wrath upon thoſe that do evil, Rom. 13.2, 14. 1 Pet. 2.14. 1 Tim. 2.2. Prov. 8.16.17. 2 Chron. 19.6.

2. The moſt High God, who is King of Kings, and Lord of Lords, who ruleth in the Kingdom of Men, and giveth it to whomſoever he will, he exalteth and pulleth down, altereth and removeth Kings and other Rulers at his pleaſure, Pſal. 75.6, 7. Dan. 4.25. 2 Chron. 11.4. 2 King. 9.3, 6, 7. ſometimes giving bad Rulers, and at other times taking away ſuch as are good, in a way of Judgment, for the ſin of a people, 1 Samuel. 8.16.19. Hoſea 13.11. 2 Chronnic. 34.28.

3. Though the worſt Rulers do not Reign without the pre-ſcience and permiſſion of God, yet ſuch Governours as rule contrary to the revealed will of God, and to the true end of Government. do rule without Gods approbation, and are accounted by him as no… Rulers, Hoſea 11.4. Ezek. 34.5.10.21. Jer. 5.1. p. 43And ſome of them are ſaid in Scripture to have their power with, and to exerciſe it for the Beaſt, and therefore are called the horns of the Dragon, and of the Beaſt, (Daniel 7.20.24. Revel. 13.1. Chap. 17.…3.16.)

4. As it is unlawful for Rulers to command any thing that God hath forbidden, and to compell men to obey the ſame, or to forbid any thing that God commands; ſo it is lawful for the ſervants of God to diſobey ſuch commands, Dan. 3:18. chap. 6.10, 11. Acts 4.19, 20. chap. 5.29.

Concerning Antichriſt.

Though there were many Antichriſts in the Apoſtles time, 1 John 2.18. yet there was one in a more ſpecial manner to come after thoſe days, who is called the Antichriſt, 1 Iohn 2.22. the man of ſin, 2 Theſ. 2.3. the Beaſt, the falſe Prophet, and the Deſtroyer, Rev. 13. c. 9.11.

2. This Antichriſt is one that ſits in the Temple of God, aſſuming and exerciſing power above thoſe that are called Gods (above Magiſtrates) 2 Theſ. 2. who beareth the woman or the Harlot, the City Rome which was built upon ſeaven hills, Rev. 17.3.9.18. who, under pretence of being for Chriſt, doth indeed fight againſt him, and deſtroy his true Worſhip, Rev. 13.7.11. who deceive the world by his miracles and lying wonders Rev, 13.13, 14. 2 Theſ. 2.9. whoſe reign was to begin at the fall of the Roman Empire, 2 Theſ. 1.6, 7. where together with him True Kings were to ariſe out of that ſtate, and is to give their power to him. Rev. 17.12, 13. All which ſince it is exactly, faithfully and litterally agree to the Pope of Rome, we may ſay concerning him, Is this the Antichriſt that is to come or may we look for another.

p. 44Concerning the converſion and calling of the Jewes.

Though the Partition Wall between Jewes and Gentiles was broken down by the Death of Chriſt, Eph. 2.14.15. and now all true Believers both Jewes and Gentiles are brought into our Fold and ſpecial Fellowſhip, John 10.16. chap. 11.51, 52. Eph, 2.16, 17, 18. Yet is the generality a body of that Relation, the Jews, for their unbelief, hardneſs of heart, rejecting of Chriſt, and diſobeying the Goſpel, were rejected and ſcattered; ſo for the ſake of their Fathers Abraham, Iſaac, Jacob, David, and for the fulfilling of the promiſes made to them. The Jews ſhall yet before the end of the world, be generally converted and reconciled to God (Rom. 11.25, 26. to the 31.

2. Their converſion will be both a ſtrange and a ſuddain thing, and therefore is often called and compared unto the Reſurrection from the dead, and to a Nation born in a day, Ezek. 37. Iſa. 66.8, 9.

3. This glorious and great work of their converſion will be wrought in an extraordinary way, as their deliverance out of Egypt was, Mic. 7.15. Iſ. 11.16. and ſeems to be by the appearing of the Son of Man, or of the ſign of the Son of Man, in the clouds of Heaven, Zceh. 12.10. with Rev. 1.7. Mat. 24.30, 31.

4. When the Jews are thus called many others will lay hold upon them and joyn with them, becauſe of the miracles and the appearance of God among them, Zach. 8.21, 22, 23.

p. 455. They ſhall return out of all lands where they are now ſcattered into their own Countrey, as they did out of Egypt and Babylon, Iſa. 11. chap. 2.7.12, 13. they ſhall re-build the City Jeruſalem, Jer. 30.18. verſe 31, 38, 39, 40. and ſhall dwell there and their poſterities therein, and in the Land of Judah, Zach. 2.12. chap. 8.7, 8. chap. 12.6. and they ſhall partake in an eminent manner of the ſpirit, and of his graces, Ezekiel 39.24. Zach. 12.10. and be abundantly bleſſed with all co-eternal bleſſings. The firſt and chiefeſt power upon earth will be exerciſed by and among them. To the aſtoniſhment and deſtruction of their enemies, Micah 4.8. chap. 7.16. Acts 7.1.6.

A Short Appendix to this Confeſſion of Faith, or Signs of a True Believer.

1. HE is one that hath had clear convictions of ſin eſpecially his maſter ſin, and unbelief alſo of the want and worth of Chriſt, and of puniſhment for ſin, as the due deſert of ſin, John 16.8.

2. He is unbottomed and broaken off from himſelf, he hath no confidence in himſelf (his birth education, parts, performances) and beſt works are impure in his own ſight, Phil 3. & 3. Iſay 64 & 6.

3. He is hardly brought to believe, he hardly believes that he doth believe, and hardly caſts away his confidence when he doth once truly believe.

4. He prayeth to God moſt againſt his deareſt and p. 28maſter ſin, and praiſeth God moſt when he hath po… er againſt it.

5. He never repents for any ſin forſaken, or goo… he hath done, or Affliction he hath ſuffered to Chriſt.

6. In reading of Scripture he obſerves what help on his holineſs, and teacheth ſelf-denial, as well as wh… increaſeth knowledge.

7. He cares not what he hath, whether he goeth, what he ſuffers with Chriſt, and withou… Sin.

8, He is one that reſolves to follow Chriſt through every condition, yet much ſuſpects and fears he ſhal… not be able to hold out.

9. He ſeeks and prizes holyneſs, to ſerve God here, as much or more then happineſs hereafter.

10. Above all care, he bends himſelf to keep from his Maſter Sin, 2 Sam 23.24.

11. He neglects not his duty though he knows ther's great danger in doing it, Dan. 6.10.

12. He is one that is careful to lay in, and to get true grace in his heart as well as in his profeſſion, like the wiſe Scribe, Matthew 13. and wiſe virgins. Mat. 25.

13. He cleaves to the Lord and follows him in the worſt of times, when others forſake him, not crying Hoſannah to day, and Crucifie him to morrow.

14. He takes patiently and thankfully the harſheſt words and the hardeſt dealings from God, 1 Sam. 3. & 18. 2 Kings 20.9.19. Job 1.14.

15. He is much affected with, and afflicted for the ſufferings of the godly, and ſins of the wicked as David, Jerom, Lot, Paul.

16. He is one that when recovered out of his back-ſliding, remembers his former good condition, p. 47with praiſes more to God, and hatred more to ſin, Hoſ. ….7, 14, 2, 3.

17. He ſeeks and eſteems ſincerity more then any garniſhing gifts, and prizeth plain and poor Saints that are honeſt and upright, more then thoſe that hath parts and wealth, if leſs ſincere.

18. He devoteth himſelf more to Gods fear, and deſireth grace for grace ſake, Neh. 1.11.

19. His chief delight is amongſt the Saints, eſpecially thoſe that excell in vertue.

20. He is one that upon the leaſt apprehenſion of Gods withdrawing from him, that ſeeks God the more earneſtly.

21. He is one that upon every new mercy received is with new thankfulneſs delighted.

22. He hath ſuch pity for periſhing people, that he cannot but weep at the ſenſe of their ruine, Luke 19.41.

23. He is one that proſperity doth not lift up, nor adverſity caſt down.

24. Every company is burthenſome to him that is not deſigning Gods glory.

25. The longer he is acquainted with Chriſt, the greater is his affection to Chriſt.

26. He is one that knows the voyce of Chriſt, and will hear his voyce only, John 10.4, 5. 1 Iohn 4.6.

27. He is one that lays the ſins of Profeſſors ſo much to heart, that it makes him walk ſadly.

28. He is one that prays at his firſt converſion, Acts 9.11. God hath no Still-born children.

29. He is one that upon ſelf ſuſpition doth greatly deſire to be ſearched, and doth earneſtly ſearch himſelf that his work may be of God approved, Pſal. 77.6. Pſal. 139.1.

30. Under deep diſtreſs or languiſhing, Gods promiſes p. 48are then moſt pretious to him.

31. His faith helps on his holyneſs, and his holineſs holds up his faith:

32. Whereever he goes he carries a conſtant jealouſie with him over his heart, proving its affectedneſs to God and goodneſs.

33. He hath a ſoft, circumciſed new heart, and is a new creature, Ezekiel 36.26. 2 Corinthian 5.17.

34. The peace of Chriſts houſe is the chief joy of his heart.

35. He is more afraid of the hell in ſin than the hell after ſin.

36. He doth never reſolve to goe on in any known ſin.

37. He is one that had rather dwell in a Cottage with the humble, then in a pallace with the Ungodly.

38. He reſpects all, and rejects none of Gods commandments.

39. He often asks his heart, what am I? what a doing? whether a going?

As an Appendix to his Confeſſion of Faith you have here 12. brief Arguments concerning Beleivers Baptiſm, which were bles'd to the ſatisfaction of a Doubting friend (upon that ſubject) to whom he ſent them.

1. BEcauſe God commands, Acts 2.38. and 10.48. and 22.16.

2. Becauſe of the promiſes made to this Ordidance, and to them that ſubmit thereto, Matt. 16.16. Act. 2.38.

3. Becauſe thereby they imitate Chriſt and his Apoſtles, Matt. 3.13. Luk. 3.21.23. Act. 9.18.

4. Becauſe it is one of the Principles of Religion, Heb. 6.1, 2.

5. Becauſe it is part of righteouſneſs, and practiſing it is part of fulfilling righteouſneſs, Mat. 3.15.

6. Becauſe of the ſignificancy of it, ſignifies.

1. Jeſus Chriſts death, burial and reſurrection, and our juſtification thereby, Rom. 6.3.4. Mar. 1.5. Act. 22.16.

2. Our putting on of Chriſt Gal. 3.27.

3. Our Sanctification is mortification and vivication, Rom. 6.2.5. Col. 2.12.

4. The Baptiſm of the ſpirit, or the gifts of the Spirit, Act. 1.5. Tit. 3.5 6.

7. Becauſe it is a Seal of the Covenant of Grace. coming in the room of circumciſion, Col. 2.11, compare with Rom. 4.11. This ſuch as are for Infants Baptiſm acknowledge.

8. Becauſe it was and ſtill ſhould be a badge of Chriſtianity, and a diſcriminating character of ſaints, and beleivers, from the world and unbeleivers, Act. 10.47. 1 Cor. 15.29.

9. Becauſe it is a concomitant of faith and faith, and it ought not to be ſeparated, Eph. 4.5. Act. 8.12.

10. Becauſe not to be baptized is a rejecting of the Counſel of God, Luke 7.30.

11. Becauſe it is one of the uniting Bands that joyns the body together, and one of the Churches breaſts that nouriſhes her Children, 1 Cor. 12.13. Col. 2.19. Cant. 4.5. & 8, 8.

12. Becauſe it is praevious and antecedaneous to Church-communion and to the orderly partaking of the Lords-Supper, Acts 2.41, 42.9.18, 26.27, 28,

To which might be added the general opinion of both antient, and modern Teachers, and Churches as appears in their Confeſſions of Faith, and other writings.

Neither is there any prohibition of reiterating the Ordinance (eſpecially if there be any deficiency, in the firſt reception of it, and that eſſential too in Infant baptiſme, conſider Mat. 3. with 2.14. & 19.3, 5.