DOCTRINE, CREED AND CONFESSION OF FAITH CHRISTIAN CHURCH BIBLICAL

NATURE OF RELIGION

The Bible tells us that man was created in the image of God and that even when this fell into sin image of the High God was not completely erased or man or ceased to be the bearer of this image.

Although the sinful nature of man to react against it, the seed of religion is implanted in every man and missionaries testify that religion expressed in one form or another, is in all nations and tribes Earth. What many denounce as a curse or the "opium of the people" it is one of the greatest blessings that mankind has experienced.

 Religion not only affects the depths of human life but also controls your thoughts, feelings and desires.

What thing is for religion? Only through the study of the Word of God we can understand the nature of true religion.

The word "religion" comes not from the biblical original Greek and Hebrew but Latin. In our translation of the Bible we are found four times, Acts 26: 5, James 1: 26-27.

The Old Testament defines religion as "the fear of the Lord". This fear is not a feeling of terror, but a reverent respect for God. It is a fear that accompany love and trust. This is the response of the Old Testament believer to the revelation of the Law.

In the New Testament it is rather the response to the Gospel to the law, and is presented in the form of faith and piety.

The scriptures teach us that religion is a relationship of man to God in which man realizes the absolute majesty and infinite power of God, on par with your own smallness and insignificance and its complete impotence .

We can thus define religion as well: A relationship with God voluntary and conscious, which is expressed in an overflowing adoration of gratitude and loving service. The form of this religious worship and service to God, is not the product of the arbitrary will of man, but has been determined by God himself.

MEMORY TO LEARN ABOUT THE NATURE OF RELIGION:

1. Deut. 10: 12-13. " And now, Israel, what doth the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love and serve the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and can all your soul; To keep the commandments of Jehovah and his statutes which I command thee to thy good? "

2. Sal. 111: 10. "The beginning of wisdom is the fear of the Lord. Good understanding have when they that work; His praise endures forever. "

3. Ec. 12:13. "Fear God and keep his commandments; because this is the whole duty of man. "

4. John 6:29. "This is the work of God, that you believe in he has sent."

5. Acts 16:31. "And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved, and thy house."

THE SOURCE OF RELIGION

There are certain erroneous views about the source of religion in man.

Some speak of religion as if it were a knowledge that resides in intelligence. Others believe that it is a feeling of closeness to God and located in the area psychic feeling, while others put their emphasis on the moral activity of man and the will speak.

All these opinions are biased and contrary to Scripture, who teach us that religion has to do with the heart. In biblical psychology we found that the heart is the central organ of the soul. It is the heart of where the wellspring of life, thoughts, feelings and desires, Proverbs 4:23. Religion includes all the faculties of man, intellectual, emotional and moral. This is the only opinion that fits the nature of religion.

MEMORY TO LEARN ABOUT THE SOURCE OF RELIGION:

1. Sal. 51:10, 17. "Create in me, O God, a clean heart and renew a right spirit within me. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; Contrite and humbled heart desapreciarás are not you, O God. "

2. Prov. 4:23. "Above all else Keep your heart because it is the wellspring of life."

3. Matthew 5: 8. "Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God."

THE ORIGIN OF RELIGION.

During the last fifty years it has carefully studied the question of the origin of religion. He tried to give natural explanations of it, but without success. Some spoke of it as the invention of cunning and deceitful priests who tried to make it and in primitive times, a source of income, but today this explanation has lost all its value.

Others claimed that religion began with the worship of inanimate objects (fetishes) or with the worship of the spirits of the ancestors. However this explanation did not come to solve the 'problem of how it came to this worship of inanimate objects or living. There were those who believed that religion originated with the worship of nature, ie, its wonders and powers or the practice of magic.

The essential defect of all these theories is that they do not tell us how man came to be a religious being and all start with the concept of an already religious man.

The Bible gives us the true and only story about the origin of religion. First he tells us about the existence of God, the only worthy object of worship. Then God says and says, whom the man would never discover their natural abilities, first revealed in nature and in a special way in his divine Word.

This God, the Bible says, requires worship and service of man and also defines the kind of worship and service that pleases him. Finally, the Bible teaches that God created man in his image and likeness, and thereby enabled him to understand and respond to his revelation and at the same time engendered in him a natural desire to seek fellowship with God, and glorify Him.

MEMORY TO LEARN ABOUT THE ORIGIN OF RELIGION:

1. Genesis 1:27. "And God created man in his image, in the image of God created it ."

2. Deut. 4:13. "And he declared to you his covenant, which he commanded you to 'perform, the ten words" (or commandments).

3. Ezekiel 36:26. "And I give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove from your body the heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. »

REVELATION ITSELF.

The study of religion leads us to the study of the origin of revelation. If God had not revealed, religion would be impossible. If God had not released the man would have had no knowledge of God, and by itself, he would never have come to discover God. In this study we distinguish the revelation of God in nature, and his revelation in Scripture.

Atheists and agnostics do not believe in revelation. The pantheistic talk about it sometimes, even when they have no place for her in his philosophical system. Deists admit that God is revealed in nature but deny the necessity, reality and even the possibility of a special revelation as it is given in Scripture. We believe, however, in general disclosure and other special. 

General revelation

The general disclosure differs from its special revelation only as regards the time. This revelation is given to us in the form of verbal communication, but in fact, you were and laws of nature, in the constitution and operation of the human mind and the facts of experience and history. The Bible speaks of it in so many passages as Ps. 19: 1-2; Ro. 1: 19-20; 2:14:15.

FAILURE OF GENERAL REVELATION

While Pelagians, Rationalists and Deists believe this revelation as sufficient for our present needs, the Roman Catholic and Protestant churches agree that it is not enough.

The stain of sin that fell on the creation obscured this revelation. Nevertheless, the image of the Creator was not completely erased the man, but became hazy and indistinct. Currently we not give us certain knowledge of God and spiritual things, and therefore can not give us a sure foundation upon which we can build for our eternal future.

The failure of this natural revelation is demonstrated in the confusion among those seeking to establish their religion on a natural basis. If such disclosure is not yet an adequate basis for religion in general, the less for the true religion.

In fact, even the pagan nations appeal to some supposed natural revelation.

Finally, this revelation completely fails in regard to meeting the needs of sinners. Even though it gives us some knowledge of goodness, wisdom and power of God does not give us any knowledge of Christ as the only way of salvation.

THE VALUE OF GENERAL REVELATION

The foregoing does not mean that general revelation is of no value. This revelation explains the true elements that are still in pagan religions. Because of this revelation, the nations feel they are the offspring of God, Acts 17:28, and seek God, if perhaps they might grope for him and find him, Acts 17:27, contemplate nature in its eternal power and divinity, ro. 1: 19-20, and do, by nature the things of the law, Rom. 2: 14.

The fact that the pagans living in the darkness of sin and ignorance, and corrupted the truth of God, does not prevent them that somehow participate in the illumination of His Word, John 1: 9 and in the general work his Spirit, Gn. 6: 3.

At the same time, the general revelation of God establishes a precedent for special revelation. This would not be fully understood without it. Science and history illuminate the pages of the Bible.

MEMORY TEXTS TO LEARN ABOUT THE GENERAL REVELATION

1. Sal. 8: 1. "O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth"

2. Sal. 19: 1-2. "The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament sheweth his handywork. The one day day utters speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. "

3. Rom. 1: 20. "For the invisible things of him, his eternal power and divine nature , have been clearly seen since the creation of the world, being understood by the things that are made."

4. Rom. 2: 14-15. "For the Gentiles who do not have law do by nature what the law, these, having not thelaw, are a law unto themselves.

Showing the work written in their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and law accusing or else excusing their thoughts with each other. "

SPECIAL REVELATION

In addition to the revelation of God in nature we have His special revelation locked in the Scriptures. The Bible book of special revelation of God is. This is a revelation in which the words and deeds complement each other; the words interpret the facts and they credited the words.

NEED FOR SPECIAL REVELATION

The entrance of sin into the world necessitated this special revelation. The vision of God's hand, which until then had been revealed in nature, was obscured and corrupted. The man was spiritually blind, subject to error and disbelief.

Even now his blindness and perversion you from correctly interpreting the remaining vestiges of the original revelation, and is totally unable to understand any subsequent divine revelation. It was therefore necessary that God re-interpret the truths of nature, proveyera a new revelation of His redemption and illuminate the human mind and redeem the power of error.

SPECIAL REVELATION

1. Number. 12: 6-8. "And he said , Hear now my words: If hast prophet of the Lord will appear to him in avision, in a dream I speak with him. Not so my servant Moses, who is faithful in all my house. Word of mouth will speak to him. "

2. Heb. eleven. "God spoke many times and in many ways formerly to the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days has spoken to us by his Son."

3. 2nd Pe. 1: 21. "For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit."

SPECIAL FORMS OF REVELATION

God gave His special revelation to man in different ways:

1. Theophanies or visible manifestations of God. God revealed His presence in the form of fire and cloud, Ex.3: 2; 33: 9; Ps . 78: 14; 99: 7; in tempestuous winds, Job 38: 1; Ps . 18: 10-16 and in a still small voice, 1 Kings 19: 12. All these were manifestations of his presence, which were to reveal something of his glory.Among the Old Testament appearances, are very prominent the Angel of the Lord, the second person of the Trinity, Genesis 16: 13 and 31:11; Acts. 23: 20-23; Mal 3: 1. The most sublime point of the revelation of God to men was the incarnation of Jesus Christ. In it, the Word of God became flesh and dwelt among us.John 1:14.

2. Direct communications Sometimes God spoke directly to men as Moses and the people of Israel, Deut. 5: 4 and sometimes by means of the prophets through the internal operation of the Holy Spirit, 1 Peter 1: 11. In other cases revealed by means of dreams and visions and also by the Urim and Thummim, no. 12: 6, Isaiah 27:21 6. in the New Testament we find Jesus Christ as the Divine Master sent to reveal the will of his Father and his Spirit the apostles became organs of subsequent revelations, John 14; 26; .. 1 Corinthians 2: 12-13;1 Thess. 2:13.

3. Miracles; The miracles of the Bible should never be considered as mere wonders to fill men with amazement but as an essential part of God's revelation. They are manifestations of a special divine power and presence of God in a particular way. In many cases are symbols of spiritual truths, of the coming Kingdom of God and the divine power for redemption. The greatest miracle was the coming of the Son of God in human form. It is in Christ that the whole creation is restored and restored to its original beauty. 1 Tim. : 16; Rev. 21: 5.

THE CHARACTER OF THE SPECIAL REVELATION

This special revelation of God speaks of redemption. It teaches us God's plan for the redemption of sinners and the world, and how this plan is carried out. In a special way renews man, brightens your mind and inclined to do good, so full of holy aspirations and prepares for the heavenly home.

This redemption is presented to us as a fact that not only enriches our knowledge, but transforms the lives of sinners and saints ago. Such a revelation is progressive. The great truths of redemption first appear very dark, but gradually illuminate until the New Testament appear in all its beauty and fullness. 

1 SCRIPTURE

(1)

A. The Holy Scriptures are the only sufficient, certain and infallible rule of all knowledge, faith and obedience saviors .: 2 Tim. 3: 15-17; Is 8:20.; Lk. 16:29, 31; Eph. 2:20.

B. Although the light of nature and the works of creation and providence so manifest kindness, wisdom and power of God that leave men without excuse: Rom. 1: 19-21, 32; Ro. 2: 12a, 14, 15;Psalm 19: 1-3.

C. However, they are not enough to give the knowledge of God and his will which is necessary for salvation: Ps 19: 1-3 with vv. 7-11; Ro. 1: 19-21; 2: 12a, 14,15 with 1: 16.17 and 3:21.

D. Therefore, it pleased the Lord, at different times and in different ways, to reveal himself and declare his will to his church: I 1: 1,2a.

E. And then, to better preserve and spread the truth and to a more secure establishment and comfort of the church against the corruption of the flesh , and the malice of Satan and the world, he liked to write down this revelation in its entirety, which makes the Holy Scriptures very necessary. Prov .22: 19-21; Lk. 1: 1-4; 2 Peter 1: 12-15; 3: 1; Dt . 17: 18ff .; 31: 9ff . , 19ff .; 1 Corinthians 15: 1; 2 Thes. 2: 1, 2.15; 3:17; Ro. 1: 8-15; Gal. 4: 20; 6: 11; 1 Tim. 3:14. Ap . 1: 9, 19; 2: 1, etc .; Ro. 15: 4; 2 Peter 1: 19-21.

F. Having ceased and previous ways by which God revealed his will to his people: I 1: 1,2a; Acts. 1:21, 22; 1 Cor 9: 1; 15: 7, 8; Eph. 2:20

(2)

Under the name of Holy Scripture or Word of God written, they are included all the books of the Old and New Testaments, which are:

OLD TESTAMENT

Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 Samuel, 2 Samuel, 1 Kings, 2 Kings, 1 Chronicles, 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song Solomon, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea

Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi

NEW TESTAMENT

Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts, of Romans Apostles, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James, 1st Peter, 2 Peter, 1 John, 2 John, 3 John, Jude, Revelation.

They were given by inspiration of God to be the rule of faith and life: 2nd Ti. 3: 16 1st Ti. 5: 17,18; 2nd Peter 3: 16.

(3)

A. The books commonly called Apocrypha, not being of divine inspiration, not part of the canon or rule of Scripture and, therefore, have no authority to the church of God, nor should they beaccepted or used in the same way except that other human writings: Lc. 24: 27.44; Ro. 3: 2.

(4)

A. The authority of Scripture, why be believed, does not depend on the testimony of any man or church: Lc. 16: 27-31; Gal. 1: 8.9; Eph. 2:20.

B. But wholly upon God (who is truth itself), the author of it; therefore, it must be received because itis the Word of God: 2 Tim. 3:15; Ro. 1: 2; 3: 2; Acts. 2:16; 4:25; Mt. 13:35; Ro. 9:17; Gal. 3: 8; Ro. 15: 4; 1 Cor 10:11; Mt. 22:32; Lk. 16:17; Mt 22: 41ss; 10:35 June.; Gal. 3:16; Acts. 1:16; 2: 24ff; 13:34, 35; June 19: 34-36 . ; 19:24; Lk. 22:37; Mt. 26:54; 13:18 June.; 2 Tim. 3:16; 2 Peter 1: 19-21;Matthew 5:17, 18; 4: 1-11.

(5)

A. The testimony of God's church can be moved and induced to have a high and reverent esteem for Scripture: 2 Ti. 3:14, 15.

B. And the celestial nature of the content, the efficacy of the doctrine, the majesty of the style, the harmony of all parties, proposed to reach across a whole (which is to give all glory to God), full disclosure that give the only way of salvation for man, and many other incomparable excellencies ,and the entire perfections thereof, are arguments which give abundant evidence of being the Word of God: .Jer. 23:28, 29; Lk. 16: 27-31; 6:63 June.; 1 Peter 1: 23-25; I have 4:12, 13; Dt . 31: 11-13;20:31 June.; Gal. 1: 8, 9; Mark 16:15, 16.

C. However, our full persuasion and assurance of the infallible truth and divine authority comes from the inward work of the Holy Spirit, who testifies in our hearts through the Word and with it: Mt. 16:17; 1 Cor 2: 14ff .; June 3. 3; 1 Cor 2: 4,5; 1 Thes. 1: 5.6; June 1 . 2: 20.21, with v. 27.

(6)

A. The whole counsel of God concerning all things necessary for his own glory, man's salvation, faith and life, is expressly set down or necessarily contained in the Holy Scriptures; to which nothing at any time, it must be added, whether by new revelation of the Spirit or traditions of men: 2 Ti. 3: 15-17; Deut . 4: 2; Acts. 20:20, 27; Psalm 19: 7; 119: 6, 9, 104.128.

B. However, we acknowledge the inward illumination of the Spirit of God is necessary for a saving understanding of the things revealed in the Word: Jun . 6:45; 1 Corinthians 2: 9-14.

C. And there are some touching to the worship of God and the government of the Church, common to human actions and societies, to be determined according to the light of nature and Christian prudence, according to the general rules of circumstances the Word, which must always be kept: 1 Cor 14: 26,40

(7)

A. Not all things in Scripture are equally clear in themselves. 2 Peter 3:16.

B. Neither are equally clear to all: 2 Ti. 3: 15-17.

C. However, the things that are necessary to know, believe and keep for salvation, are proposed and forth so clearly in one or another place of Scripture that not only scholars but those who are not, can acquire a sufficient understanding such things by the proper use of ordinary means. 2 Tim. 3: 14-17; Psalm 19: 7-8; 119: 105; 2 Peter 1:19; Pr . 6: 22,23; Dt . 30: 11-14.

(8)

A. The Old Testament in Hebrew (which was the language of God's people in ancient times) Ro. 3: 2, 3.

B. And the New Testament in Greek (which at the time was written was the language most commonly known among the nations), being inspired by God immediately and kept pure throughout all time by his special care and providence, they are, therefore, authentic: Mt. 5:18.

C. So that, in all religious controversy, the church must appeal to them as the determining authority: Is 8:20;. Acts. 15:15; 2 Tim. 3:16, 17; June 10. 34-36.

C. But because these original languages ​​are not known for all the people of God, who is entitled to the Scriptures and interest in them, and is commanded to read and search them : Dt . 17: 18-20; Pr 2: 1-5;. 8:34; Jun. 5:39, 46.

D. In the fear of God, have to be translated into the common language of every nation to which are carried: 1 Corinthians 14: 6, 9, 11, 12, 24, 28.

E. For the Word of God dwelling richly in all may worship Him in an acceptable manner and that, through patience and comfort of the Scriptures have hope: Col. 3:16; Ro. 15: 4.

(9)

A. The infallible rule of interpretation of Scripture constitute the Scriptures themselves; and therefore, when a question about the true and full sense of any scripture (which is not manifold, but one) arises, it should be sought in other passages express themselves more clearly. Is 8:20;June 10: 34-36 . ; Acts. 15: 15,16.

(10)

A. The supreme judge, by which must decide all religious controversies, and which should be examined all decrees of councils, opinions of ancient writers, doctrines of men and private spirits, and whose sentence we obey, can not be none other than the Holy Scriptures delivered by the Spirit. To these Scriptures so delivered, our faith is reduced in short: Mt. 22:29, 31.32; Eph. 2:20;Acts. 28: 23-25.

2. GOD AND THE HOLY TRINITY

(1)

A. The Lord our God is a true God, and live: Dt . 6: 4; Jer. 10:10; 1 Corinthians 8: 4, 6; 1 Thes. 1: 9.

B. whose livelihood is in himself and is himself infinite in being and perfection. 2. Is 48:12

3. Whose essence can not be understood by anyone but himself: Ex 3:14;. Job 11: 7, 8; 26:14; Ps 145: 3; Ro. 11:33, 34.

C. It is pure, invisible spirit, without body, parts, or passions, who alone has immortality and dwells in unapproachable light: Jun . 4:24; 1 Tim. 1:17; Dt 4:15 . 16; Lk. 24:39; Acts. 14:11, 15; Stg. 5:17.

D. It is immutable, immense, eternal, inscrutable, almighty, infinite in every way, most holy, mostwise, most free, absolute: Mal . 3: 6; Stg. 1:17; 1 Kings 8:27; Jer.23: 23, 24; Psalm 90: 2; 1 Tim. 1:17;Gn. 17: 1; Ap . 4: 8; Isa . 6: 3; Ro. 16:27; Ps 115: 3; Ex. 3:14.

E. What does all things after the counsel of his immutable and most righteous will for his own glory: Eph. 1:11; Is 46:10.; Pr . 16: 4; Ro. 11:36.

F. is loving, kind, merciful, longsuffering, abundant in goodness and truth, forgiving iniquity, transgression and sin: Ex . 34: 6,7; 1 June 4: 8 . .

G. rewarder of those who diligently seek Him, and above all, most just and terrible in his judgments, hating all sin , and that will by no means clear the guilty: I 11: 6; Neh. 9: 32,33; Ps 5: 5,6; Naha 1: 2.3; Ex . 34: 7.

(2)

A. With God in himself and for himself all life, glory, goodness and bliss, is all - sufficient in itself and for itself and not in need of any of the creatures he has made, nor deriving any glory from them, but only manifesting his own glory in, by, unto , and upon them: Jul 5:26;. Acts. 7: 2; Ps 148: 13;119: 68; 1 Tim. 6:15; Job 22: 2, 3; Acts. 17:24 25.

B. He is the only source of all being, of whom, by whom and for whom are all things, taking over all creatures most sovereign dominion to do by them, for them and about them all that pleases him Ap . 4:11; 1 Tim. 6:15; Ro. 11: 34-36; Dn. 4:25 34 And 35.

C. all things are naked and open to his eyes; his knowledge is infinite, infallible , and independent of the creature, so that for him there is no contingent or uncertain thing I've 4:13; Ro. 11:33, 34; Ps 147: 5; Acts. 15:18; Ez. 11: 5.

D. It is most holy in all his counsels, in all his works and in his commandments: Ps 145: 17; Ro. 7:12.

E. He is owed ​​by angels and men, all worship, any service or obedience as creatures owe the Creator, and anything extra that he he pleased sue them. Rev 5: 12- 14.

(3)

A. In this divine and infinite Being there are three keeps, the Father, the Word or Son and the Holy Spirit: Matthew 3:16, 17; 28:19; 2 Cor 13:14.

B. In a substance, power and eternity, each having the whole divine essence, but the essence undivided: Ex 3:14;. John 14: 11; 1 Corinthians 8: 6.

C. The Father is of none, neither by generation nor procession; the Son is eternally begotten of the Father and the Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father and the Son: they are infinite, without beginning and, therefore, are one God, who is not to be divided in nature and being, but distinguished by several peculiar relative properties and personal relations; the doctrine of the Trinity is the foundation of all our communion with God and our dependence on him consoling: Pr . 8: 22-31; June 1: 1-3 . , 14.18; 3:16; 10:36; 15:26; 16:28; I 1: 2; June 1 4:14.; Gal. 4: 4-6.

3. THE DECREE OF GOD

(1)

A. God from all eternity, by the most wise and holy counsel of his own will, has declared itself free and unalterably: Pr . 19: 21; Is . 14: 24-27; 46:10, 11; Ps 115: 3; 135: 6; Ro. 9:19.

B. All things, everything that happens: Dn. 4:34, 35; Ro. 8:28; 11:36; Eph. 1:11.

C. However, so that is why God is neither the author of sin and fellowship with one in the same: Gn.18:25; Stg. 1:13; 1 June 1: 5 . .

D. No violence is done to the will of the creature, neither liberty or contingency of second causes are removed, but rather established: Gn. 50:20; 2 Samuel 24: 1; Is . 10: 5-7; Mt. 17:12; 19:11 June.;Acts. 2:23; 4:27 28.

E. In his wisdom which manifests itself in having all things, and power and faithfulness in carrying out its decrees: Nm. 23:19; Eph. 1: 3-5.

(2)

A. Although God knows everything that could or may happen in all conditions which may involve: 1 S. 23:11, 12; Matthew 11:21, 23; Acts. 15:18.

B. However nothing has decreed that foresaw as future or as what had happened in these conditions: Is 40:13, 14;. Ro. 9: 11-18; 11:34; 1 Cor 2:16.

(3)

A. By the decree of God, for the manifestation of His glory, some men and angels are predestined, or foreordained to eternal life through Jesus Christ, to the praise of the glory of his grace , 1 Tim. 5:21;Mt. 25:34; Eph. 1: 5, 6.

B. Others are left to act in their sin to their just condemnation, to the praise of the glory of his justice on June 12. 37-40; Ro. 9: 6-24; 1 Peter 2: 8-10; Jud. Four.

(4)

A. These angels and men thus predestinated and foreordained are particularly and unchangeably designed, and their number is so certain and definite that it can not increase or decrease: Mt. 22: 1-14; 13:18 June.; Ro. 11: 5, 6; 1 Cor 7: 20-22; 2 Tim. 2:19.

(5)

A. Humans who are predestined to life, God (before the foundation of the world, according to his eternal and immutable purpose and the secret counsel and good pleasure of his will) has chosen in Christ to everlasting glory, merely by his free grace and Love: Ro. 8:30; Eph. 1: 4 to 6.9; 2 Tim. 1: 9.

B. without any other thing in the creature as a condition or cause moving him to it: Ro. 9: 11-16; 11: 5.6.

(6)

A. As God has appointed the elect to glory, in the same way, by the eternal and most free purpose of his will, he has pre-ordained all the means for this: 1 Peter 1: 2; 2 Thes. 2:13; Eph. 1: 4; 2:10.

B. Therefore, those who are chosen, having fallen in Adam, are redeemed by Christ: 1 Thes. 5: 9, 10;Tit. 2:14.

C. effectually called to faith in Christ by his Spirit working in due time, they are justified, adopted, sanctified: Ro. 8:30; Eph. fifteen; 2 Thes. 2:13.

C. kept by his power through faith unto salvation: 1 Peter 1: 5.

D. nobody else is redeemed by Christ, or effectually called, justified, adopted, sanctified , and saved, but only the chosen ones: Jul . 6: 64,65; 8:47; 10:26; 17: 9; Ro. 8:28; 1 Jun. 2:19.

(7)

A. The doctrine of deep mystery of predestination be handled with special prudence and care. Dt 29:29; Ro. 9:20; 11:33.

B: For men, when dealing with the will of God revealed in His Word and to obey it , they can, by the certainty of their effectual calling, be assured of their eternal election: 1 Thes. 1: 4, 5; 2 Peter 1:10.

C. Thus, this doctrine afford matter of praise, reverence and admiration of God: Eph. 1: 6; Ro. 11:33.

D. And humility: Ro. 11: 5, 6.20; Col 3:12.

E. And diligence: 2 Peter 1:10.

F. and abundant consolation to all that sincerely obey the Gospel: Lk. 10:20.

4. CREATION

(1)

A. In the beginning it pleased God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit: I 1: 2; June 1. 2, 3; Gn. 1: 2; Job 26:13; 33: 4.

B. For the manifestation of the glory of His power, wisdom and goodness Eternals: Ro. 1:20; Jer.10:12; Ps 104: 24; 33: 5, 6; Pr 3:19.; Acts. 14:15, 16.

C. Create or making the world and all things in it, whether visible or invisible: Gn. eleven; June 1. 2;Col 1:16.

D. In the span of six days Gn. 2: 1-3; Ex . 20: 8-11.

E. And all good: Gn. 1:31; Ec 7:29.; Ro. 5:12.

(2)

A. After God had made ​​all other creatures, he created man, male and female, with rational and immortal souls, making them fit for life with God for which they were created: Gn. 1:27; 2: 7; Stg.2:26; Mt. 10:28; Eq . 12: 7.

B: Being made ​​in the image of God, in knowledge, righteousness and holiness of truth: Gn. 1: 26,27; 5: 1-3; 9: 6; Ec 7:29.; 1 Corinthians 11: 7; Stg. 3: 9; Col. 3:10; Eph. 4:24.

C. Having the law of God written in their hearts, and power to fulfill it, and yet, with the possibility of transgressing, they are having been left to the liberty of their own will, which was mutable: Ro.1:32; 2: 12a, 14-15; Gn. 3: 6; Ec 7:29.; Ro. 5:12.

(3)

A. Besides the law written in their hearts, received a command not to eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil; and, while they kept, they were happy in their communion with God and had dominion over the creatures: Gn. 1: 26.28; 2:17.

5 DIVINE PROVIDENCE

(1)

A. God, the Creator of all good: Gn. 1:31; 2:18; Psalm 119: 68.

B. In His infinite power and wisdom: Ps 145: 11; Pr 3:19.; Psalm 66: 7.

C. holds, direct, dispose , and govern all creatures: I 1: 3; Is 46:10, . 11; Dn. 4:34, 35; Ps 135: 6; Acts.17: 25-28; Job 38-41.

D. And everything from the largest to the smallest: Mt. 10: 29-31.

E. For his most wise and holy providence: Pr . 15: 3; Ps 104: 24; 145: 17.

F. In order for which they were created: Col. 1:16, 17; Acts. 17: 24-28.

F. According to his infallible foreknowledge, and the free and immutable counsel of his own will: Ps 33: 10,11; Eph. 1:11.

G: To the praise of the glory of his wisdom, power, justice, infinite goodness and mercy: Is 63:14;.Eph. 3:10; Ro. 9:17; Gn.45: 7; Psalm 145: 7

(2)

A. Although in relation to the foreknowledge and decree of God, the first cause, all things happen immutably and infallibly, so that nothing happens to anyone by chance or without his providence: Acts. 2:23; Pr. 16:33.

B. However, by the same providence, arranges them so that occur depending on the nature of second causes, either necessarily, freely , or contingently: Gn. 8:22; Jer. 31:35; Ex 21:13.; Dt . 19: 5; Is . 10: 6, 7; Lk. 13; 3, 5; Acts. 27:31; Matthew 5:20, 21; Phil. 1:19; Pr 20:18.; Lk. 14: 25ss.Pr. 21:31; 1 Kings 22: 28,34; Rt . 2: 3.

(3)

A. God in his ordinary providence makes use of means: Acts. 27:22, 31.44; Is . 55: 10,11; You. 2: 21,22.

B. However, you have the freedom to act without them: Os. 1: 7; Lk. 1: 34,35.

C. above them: Ro. 4: 19-21.

D. And against them, as he pleases: Ex . 3: 2,3; 2 Kings 6: 6; Dn. 3:27.

(4)

A. The almighty power, unsearchable wisdom , and infinite goodness of God is manifested in His providence to such an extent that its determinant council extends even to the first fall and all other sinful actions both of angels and men: ro. 11: 32-34; 2 Samuel 24: 1; 1 Cr . 21: 1; 1 Kings 22: 22,23;2 Samuel 16:10; Acts. 2:23; 4: 27,28.

B. (And that not by a bare permission), which the most wise and powerfully limits, and also directs and governs in many ways to his most holy purposes: Acts. 14:16; 2 Kings 19:28; Gn. 50:20; Is . 10: 6, 7, 12

C. however, so that the sinfulness of the actions of these proceeds only from the creatures, and not God, who , being most holy and righteous, is not, nor can be, the author of sin nor approve: Stg.:13 , 14, 17; June 1 2:16.; Psalm 50:21.

(5)

A. The most wise, most just and merciful God often leave for a season his own children to manifold temptations and the corruptions of their own hearts, to chastise them for their former sins , or to reveal the hidden strength of corruption and deceitfulness of their hearts, to be humiliated; and to lead to a dependence on it more intimate and constant support for it; and to make them more watchful against all future occasions of sin, and for other just and holy ends: 2 Cr 32:25, 26, 31,. 2 Samuel 24: 1; Lk. 22:34, 35; Mark 14: 66-72; June 21: 15-17 . .

B. Therefore, everything that happens to any of his elect is by his appointment, for his glory and for the good of them: Ro. 8:28.

(6)

A. As for those wicked and ungodly whom God, as fair, blind and harden because of his previous sin judge men: Ro. 1: 24-26, 28; 11: 7, 8.

B. Not only denied his grace which could have illuminated their understanding and acted in their hearts. Deuteronomy 29: 4.

C. but sometimes also withdraweth the gifts which were: Mt. 13:12; 25:29.

D. and leaves them exposed to things that their corruption makes occasion of sin: Dt . 2:30; 2 Kings 8:12, 13.

E. and, in turn, delivers them to their own lusts, the temptations of the world and the power of Satan: Ps 81:11, 12; 2 Thes. 2: 10-12.

F. so happens that harden under the same means God uses to soften others: Ex . 7: 3; 8:15, 32; 2 Corinthians 2:15, 16; Isa . 6: 9, 10; 8:14; 1 Peter 2: 7; Acts. 28:26, 27; Jun. 12:39, 40.

(7)

A. Just as God's providence generally reaches all creatures, and also more especially cares for his church and all things for the sake of it: Pr . 2: 7, 8; Am . 9: 8, 9; 1 Tim. 4:10; Ro. 8:28; Eph. 1:11, 22;3:10, 11, 21; Is . 43: 3-5, 14.

6. THE FALL OF MAN, SIN AND PENALTIES

(1)

A. Although God created righteous and perfect man, and gave him a righteous law, which had been for life if he had saved, and threatened with death his transgression, man honored for long: Ec. 7:29; Ro. 5: 12a, 14, 15; Gn. 2:17; 4: 25-5: 3.

B. Using Satan the subtlety of the serpent to subdue Eve, then by her seducing Adam, who without any coercion, deliberately transgressed the law under which they were created and the mandate that had been given them, eating the forbidden fruit: Gn. 3: 1-7; 2 Corinthians 11: 3; 1 Tim. 2:14.

C. Which allow pleased God, according to his wise and holy counsel, having ordained for the purpose it was for his own glory: Rom. 11: 32-34; 2 Samuel 24: 1; 1 Cr . 21: 1; 1 Kings 22: 22,23; 2 Samuel 16:10; Acts. 2:23; 4: 27,28.

(2)

A. For this sin, our first parents fell from their original righteousness and righteousness and communion with God, and we in them, so death came to all Gn. 3: 22-24; Ro. 5: 12ff. 1 Cor. 15: 20-22; Psalm 51: 4,5; 58: 3; Eph. 2: 1-3; Gn. 8:21; Pr. 22:15.

B. Coming be all dead men in sin, and wholly defiled in all the faculties and parts of soul and body: Gn. 2:17; Eph. twenty-one; Tit. 1:15; Gn. 6: 5; Jer. 17: 9; Ro. 3: 10-18; 1:21; Eph. 4: 17-19; 5:40 June.; Ro. 8: 7.

(3)

A. They being the root of the human race, and being by God 's design instead of all mankind, the guilt of sin was imputed and transmitted corrupt nature to all posterity descended from them by ordinary generation, being now conceived in sin, and by nature children of wrath, the servants of sin, subject to death and all other - spiritual, temporal and eternal - misery, unless the Lord Jesus set them free: Ro. 5: 12ff. 1 Corinthians 15: 20-22; Psalm 51: 4,5; 58: 3; Eph. 2: 1-3; Gn. 8:21; Pr 22:15.; Job 14: 4; 15:14.

(4)

A. From this original corruption, whereby we are utterly indisposed, disabled , and opposite to all good , and wholly inclined to all evil: Matthew 7: 17,18; 12: 33-35; Lk. 6: 43-45; June 3. 3.5; 6: 37,39,40,44,45,65; Ro. 3: 10-12; 5: 6; 7:18; 8: 7.8; 1 Cor 2:14.

B. They come itself all transgressions: Matthew 7: 17-20; 12: 33-35; 15: 18-20.

(5)

A. The corruption of nature remains in this life where they are regenerated: June 1 . 1: 8-10; 1 Kings 8:46; Psalm 130: 3; 143: 2; Pr . 20: 9; Ec 7:20.; Ro. 7: 14-25; Stg. 3: 2.

B. and although that is pardoned and mortified through Christ, herself and her first impulses are truly and properly sin: Psalm 51: 4,5; Pr 22:15.; Eph. 2. 3; Ro. 7: 5, 7, 8, 17, 18,25; 8: 3-13; Gal. 5: 17-24; Pr 15:26.; 21: 4; Gn. 8:21; Matthew 5: 27,28.

7. THE COVENANT

(1)

A. The distance between God and the creature is so great that even though rational creatures owe obedience unto him as their Creator, they could never have attained the reward of life unless by some voluntary condescension on God 's part, that he he has been pleased to express in the form of covenant: Job 35: 7,8; 113: 5.6; Isa . 40: 13-16; Lk. 17: 5-10; Acts. 17: 24,25.

(2)

A. In addition, having the man brought the curse of the law by his fall, it pleased the Lord to make a covenant of grace: Gn. 3:15; Psalm 110: 4 (with He 7: 18-22; 10: 12-18); Eph. 2:12 (Ro 4: 13-17 and Gal . 3: 18-22 . ); I have 9:15.

B. In which freely offers to sinners life and salvation by Jesus Christ, requiring faith in him so they can be salvos2: Jun . 3:16; Ro. 10: 6.9; Gal. 3:11.

C. And promising to give his Holy Spirit to those who are ordained to eternal life, to give them willing and able to believe: Ez. 36: 26,27; June 6. 44.45.

(3)

A. This covenant is revealed in the gospel; first, Adam in the promise of salvation through the seed of the woman, and then through additional steps to complete their full revelation in the New Testament: Genesis. 3:15; Ro. 16: 25-27; Eph. 3: 5; Tit. 1: 2; I 1: 1.2.

B. And that is grounded in federal and eternal transaction that was between the Father and the Son about the redemption of the elect: Psalm 110: 4; Eph. 1: 3-11; 2 Tim. 1: 9.

C. And it is only through the grace of this covenant as all descendants of the fallen Adam who are saved obtain life and blessed immortality, man being now utterly incapable of being accepted by God under those conditions in which it was Adam in his state of innocence: Jun 8:56;. Ro. 4: 1-25;Gal. 3: 18-22; I have 11: 6, 13, 39,40.

8. CHRIST THE MEDIATOR

(1)

A. pleased God: Is . 42: 1; Jun. 3:16.

B. In His eternal purpose: 1 Peter 1:19.

C. Choose and ordain the Lord Jesus, His only begotten Son, according to the covenant made ​​between them: Psalm 110: 4; I have 7:21, 22.

D. To be the mediator between God and man; prophet, priest and king; head and Savior of the church, the heir of all things and judge of the world: 1 Tim. 2: 5; Acts. 3:22; I 5: 5, 6; Psalm 2: 6; Lk. 1:33;Eph. 1:22, 23; 5:23; I 1: 2; Acts. 17:31.

E. Who gave, from all eternity, a people to be his seed and to his time redeemed, called, justified, sanctified , and glorified: Ro. 8:30; June 17. 6; Isa. 53:10; Ps 22:30; 1 Tim. 2: 6; Isa . 55: 4, 5; 1 Cor 1:30.

(2)

A. The Son of God, the second person in the Holy Trinity, being very and eternal God, the brightness of the glory of the Father, consubstantial with him and like him, who made ​​the world, and who upholds and governs all things he has done: Jul 8:58;. Jl. 2:32 with Rom. 10:13; Psalm 102: 25 with He 1:10; 1 Peter 2: 3 with Psalm 34: 8; Is . 8: 12,13 with 3:15; June 1: 1 . ; 5:18; 20:28; Ro. 9: 5; Tit.2:13; I 1: 8.9; Phil. 2: 5,6; 2 Peter 1: 1; 1 Jun. 5:20.

B. Gal: When the fullness of time came. 4: 4.

C. He took upon himself the nature of man, with all the essential properties: I 10: 5; Mark 14: 8; Mt. 26: 12,26; Lk. 7: 44-46; 13:23 June.; Mt. 9: 10-13; 11:19; Lk. 22:44; I 2:10; 5: 8; 1 Peter 3:18; 4: 1;June 19. 32-35; Mt. 26: 36-44; Stg. 2:26; June 19:30.; Lk. 23:46; Mt. 26:39; 9:36; Mr. 3: 5; 10:14;11:35 June.; Lk. 19: 41-44; 10:21; Matthew 4: 1-11; I 4:15 with James. 1:13; Lk. 5:16; 6:12; 9: 18.28; 2: 40.52; I have 5: 8, 9.

D. And with its attendant weaknesses: Matthew 4: 2; Mr. 11:12; Mt. 21:18; June 4. 7; 19:28; 4: 6; Mt. 8:24; Ro. 8: 3; I have 5: 8; 2: 10.18; Gal. 4: 4.

E. Though sinless: Is 53: 9;. Lk. 1:35; 8:46 June.; 14:30; Ro. 8: 3; 2 Cor 5:21; I 4:15; 7:26; 9:14; 1 Peter 1:19; 2:22; 1 June 3: 5 . .

F. As conceived by the Holy Spirit in the womb of the Virgin Mary, coming upon it the Holy Spirit and cover the Almighty with his shadow; and so it was made ​​of a woman from the tribe of Judah, of the seed of Abraham and David according to the Scriptures: Rom. 1: 3.4; 9: 5.

G. So, two whole, perfect and distinct natures were inseparably joined together in one person, without conversion, composition , or confusion. This person is truly God: Tit. 2:13; I 1: 8.9; Phil. 2: 5,6; 2 Peter 1: 1; 1 Jun. 5:20.

H. And truly man. Acts. 2:22; 13:38; 17:31; 1 Cor 15:21; 1 Tim. 2: 5.

I. Although one Christ, the only mediator between God and man: Rom. 1: 3.4; Gal. 4: 4,5; Phil. 2: 5-11.

(3)

A. The Lord Jesus, in his thus united to the divine, in the person of the Son, was sanctified and anointed with the Holy Spirit without measure, taking itself all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, in whom it pleased human nature to father that all fullness, so that being holy, innocent and undefiled, and full of grace and truth, was fully capable to execute the office of mediator and guarantor: Psalm 45: 7; Col. 1:19; 2. 3; I 7:26; 1:14 June.; Acts. 10:38; I have 7:22.

B. Which she did not take for himself, but was called to it by his father, who also placed in his hands all power and judgment, and ordered him to fulfill: I 5: 5; June 5th. 22.27; Mt. 28:18; Acts. 2:36.

(4)

A. The Lord Jesus very willingly assumed this office: Psalm 40: 7-8 with Hebrews 10: 5-10; 10:18 June.; Phil. 2: 8.

B. and to discharge, born under the law, Gal. 4: 4.

C. The perfectly fulfilled and suffered the punishment due us, which we should have taken and suffered: Mt. 3:15; 5:17.

D. Being made ​​sin and a curse for us: Matthew 26: 37,38; Lk. 22:44; Mt. 27:46.

E. Enduring the most terrible afflictions in his soul and the most painful sufferings in his body: Mt. 26-27.

F: He was crucified and died, and remained in the state of the dead, but without seeing corruption: Phil. 2: 8; Acts. 13:37.

G. On the third day he rose from the dead with the same body in which he suffered: Jun . 20:25, 27.

H. With which he also ascended into heaven: Acts. 1: 9-11.

I. And there sitteth at the right hand of the Father interceding: Ro. 8:34; I have 9:24.

J. and return to judge men and angels at the end of the world: Acts. 10:42 Ro. 14: 9, 10; Acts. 1:11; Mt. 13: 40-42; 2 Peter 2: 4; Jud. 6.

(5)

A. The Lord Jesus, by His perfect obedience and sacrifice of himself, Rom. 5:19; Eph. 5: 2.

B. They offered God once through the eternal Spirit: I 9:14, 16; 10:10, 14.

C. It has fully satisfied the justice of God: Rom. 3:25, 26; I 2:17; 1 June 2: 2;. 4:10.

C. has earned reconciliation: 2 Corinthians 5:18, 19; Col. 1: 20-23.

D. and purchased an everlasting inheritance in the kingdom of heaven: I 9:15; P . 5: 9, 10.

E. for all those whom the Father has given him June 17. 2.

(6)

A. Even though the price of redemption was not actually paid by Christ till after his incarnation, yet the virtue, efficacy , and benefits thereof were communicated to the elect in all ages from the beginning of the world: Gal . 4: 4, 5; Ro. 4: 1-9.

B. In the promises, types and sacrifices and through them, in which was revealed and identified as the seed that would bruise the head of the serpent , Gn. 3:15; 1 Peter 1:10, 11.

C. And the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. Rev. 13: 8.

D. Being the same yesterday, today and forever: I 13: 8.

(7)

A. Christ, in the work of mediation, acts according to both natures, by each nature through what is proper to it; although, because of the unity of the person, which is proper to one nature issometimes in Scripture attributed to the person denominated by the other nature: Jun . 3:13; Acts.20:28.

(8)

A. To all those for whom Christ has obtained eternal redemption, certainly and effectually apply and communicate the same: John 6: 37,39; 10: 15,16; 17: 9.

B. Making intercession for them: 1 June 2: 1,2;. Ro. 8:34.

C. uniting them to himself by his Spirit: Rom. 8: 1.2.

D. revealing in the Word and through it the mystery of salvation: Jul . 15: 13,15; 17: 6; Eph. 1: 7-9.

E. persuading them to believe and obey: June 1 5:20..

F. governing their hearts by His Word and Spirit. 14:16 June.; I have 12: 2; Ro. 8: 9.14; 2 Cor 4:13; Ro.15: 18,19; Jun. 17:17.

G. And overcoming all their enemies by his almighty power and wisdom: Ps 110: 1; 1 Cor 15: 25,26;Col 2:15.

H. So and in ways that best match his wonderful and unsearchable dispensation: Eph. 1: 9-11.

I. And all for the free and absolute grace, without any condition foreseen in them to granjearla: June 1 . 3: 8; Eph. 1: 8.

(9)

A. This office of mediator between God and man is proper only to Christ, who is the Prophet, Priest and King of the church of God; and can not, whole or in part, be transferred from him to any other: 1 Tim. 2: 5.

(10)

A. This number and order of trades are necessary; So our ignorance, we need his prophetic office: Jul . 1:18.

B. And our separation from God and the imperfection of the best of our services, we need his priestly office to reconcile us to God and accepted introduce to him: Col. 1:21; Gal. 5:17; I 10: 19-21.

C. And our unwillingness and inability to complete return to God and to redeem ourselves and protect us from our spiritual adversaries, we need his kingly office to convince, subdue, draw us , sustain, deliver and preserve us for his heavenly kingdom: May . 16: 8; Psalm 110: 3; Lk. 1: 74.75.

9. FREE WILL

(1)

A. God has endowed man's will a natural freedom and power to act by choice, that is not forced or determined to do good or bad by any necessity of nature: Mt. 17:12; Stg. 1:14; Dt. 30:19.

(2)

A. The man, in his state of innocence, had freedom and power to will and to do what was good and pleasing to God. Ec 7:29.

B. but it was unstable and could fall from that state: Gn. 3: 6

(3)

A. Man, by his fall into a state of sin, has completely lost all ability of will to any spiritual good accompanying salvation; therefore, as a natural man who is entirely opposite to that good , and dead in sin, can by its own forces not convert himself or to prepare for it: Ro. 6: 16,20; June 8. 31-34; Eph. twenty-one; 2 Cor 3:14; 4: 3.4; June 3. 3; Ro. 7:18; 8: 7; 1 Cor 2:14; Mt. 7: 17,18; 12: 33-37;Lk. 6: 43-45; 6:44 June.; Jer. 13:23; June 3. 3, 5; 5:40; 6: 37, 39, 40,44, 45, 65; Acts. 7:51; Ro. 3: 10-12; Stg. 1:18; Ro. 9: 16-18; June 1. 12.13; Acts. 11:18; Phil. 1:29; Eph. 2: 8.9.

(4)

A. When God converts a sinner and move to a state of grace, frees him from his natural bondage tosin and by his grace alone, enables him freely to will and do what is spiritually good: Col. 1:13 ;8:36 June.; Phil. 2:13.

B. However, because of the corruption that still does not want, neither perfect nor just, what is good, but also wants what is wrong: Ro. 7: 14-25; Gal. 5:17.

(5)

A. This will of man is made ​​perfectly and immutably free to want only good, only in the state of glory: Eph. 4:13; I 12:23.

10. THE CALLING EFFICIENT

(1)

A. Those whom God: Rom. 8:28, 29.

B. has predestined to life: Ro. 8:29, 30; 9: 22-24; 1 Cor 1: 26-28; 2 Thes. 2:13, 14; 2 Tim. 1: 9.

C. It has a well in its appointed time and acceptable: Jul . 3: 8; Eph. 1:11.

D. Call effectively: Mt. 22:14; 1 Cor 1:23, 24; Ro. 1: 6; 8:28; Jud. 1; Psalm 29; 5:25 June.; Ro. 4:17.

E. By His Word: 2 Thes. 2:14; 1 Peter 1: 23-25; Stg. 1: 17-25; June 1 5: 1-5;. Ro. 1:16, 17; 10:14; I have 4:12.

F: And Ghost: June 3. 3, 5, 6, 8; 2 Corinthians 3: 3, 6.

G. taking them out of the state of sin and death that are by nature and taking them to grace and salvation by Jesus Christ: Rom. 8: 2; 1 Corinthians 1: 9; Eph. 2: 1-6; 2 Tim. 1: 9, 10.

H. Illuminating of spiritual and saving way their minds, to understand the things of God: Acts. 26:18;1 Cor 2:10, 12; Eph. 1:17, 18.

I. By taking away the heart of stone and giving them a heart of flesh: Ez. 36:26.

J. Renewing their wills and, by his omnipotent power, leading them to want to do good, and effectively bringing them to Jesus Christ: Dt . 30: 6; Ez. 36:27; June 6. 44.45; Eph. 1:19; Phil. 2:13.

K. But so come to him freely, having received by the grace of God's willingness to do: Ps 110: 3; 6:37 June.; Ro. 6: 16-18.

(2)

A. This effectual call comes exclusively from free and special grace of God, not of anything foreseen in man, nor by power or instrumentality in the creature: 2 Ti. 1: 9; Tit. 3. 4. 5; Eph. 2: 4, 5, 8, 9; Ro.9:11.

B. Being altogether passive therein , being dead in trespasses and sins, until it is quickened and renewed by the Holy Spirit; 1 Cor 2:14; Ro. 8: 7; Eph. 2: 5.

C. is thus able to respond to this call and to receive the grace and transmits it offers, and this by no less power than that raised Christ from the dead Eph. 1: 19,20; 6:37 June.; Ez. 36:27; Jun. 5:25.

(3)

A. The children chosen * who die in infancy are regenerated and saved by Christ through the Spirit, who works when, where and how you want: Jun . 3: 8. And so are all the chosen people who are incapable of being outwardly called by the ministry of the Word.

(4)

A. Others, who are not chosen, although they are called by the ministry of the Word and have some common operations of the Spirit: Mt. 22:14; Matthew 13:20, 21; I have 6: 4, 5; Mt. 7:22.

B. Because they are not effectively brought by the Father, do not want nor can truly come to Christ and, therefore, can not be saved: Jul 6:44, 45, 64-66;. 8:24.

C. Much less can be saved who do not receive the Christian religion, no matter how diligent they are in shaping their lives in the light of the nature and the law of the religion they profess: Acts. 4:12;4:22 June.; 17: 3.

11. THE JUSTIFICATION

(1)

A. Those whom God effectually calls, also justifies free. Ro. 3:24; 8:30 pm.

B. No infusing justice and righteousness but forgiving their sins, and considering and accepting their persons as righteous: Rom. 4: 5-8; Eph. 1: 7.

C. not for anything in them or done by them, but only for Christ 's sake: 1 Corinthians 1:30, 31; Ro. 5: 17-19.

D. No imputing faith itself, or the act of believing, or any other evangelical obedience as justice; but imputing Christ's active obedience to the whole law and his passive obedience in his death for the complete and only justice from them by faith, which they have not themselves; it is the gift of God: Phil. 3: 9; Eph. 2: 7, 8; 2 Cor 5: 19-21; Tit. 3: 5, 7; Ro. 3: 22-28; Jer. 23: 6; Acts. 13:38, 39.

(2)

A. The faith that receives Christ and trust him and his justice is the only instrument of justification: Ro. 1:17; 3: 27-31; Phil. 3: 9; Gal. 3: 5.

B. however, is not alone in the person justified, but is always accompanied by all other saving virtues, and not a dead faith , but works by love: Gal. 5: 6; Stg. 2:17, 22.26.

(3)

A. Christ, by his obedience and death, fully discharge the debt of all those that are justified; and by the sacrifice of himself in the blood of his cross, suffering in place of them the punishment they deserved, proper, real and completely to God's justice in favor of them met: Ro. 5: 8-10, 19; 1 Tim.2: 5, 6; I 10:10, 14; Is . 53: 4-6, 10-12.

B. However, since Christ was given by the Father for them: Ro. 8:32.

C. And his obedience and satisfaction accepted in lieu of them: 2 Corinthians 5:21; Mt. 3:17; Eph. 5: 2.

D. And both freely, not for anything in them, their justification is only of free grace: Rom. 3:24; Eph. 1: 7.

E. To ensure that both the precise justice as the rich grace of God will be glorified in the justification of sinners: Rom. 3:26; Eph. 2: 7.

(4)

A. From all eternity, God decreed to justify all the elect: 1 Peter 1: 2, 19,20; Gal. 3: 8; Ro. 8:30 pm.

B. And in the fullness of time, Christ died for their sins, and rose again for their justification: Ro. 4:25;Gal. 4: 4; 1 Tim. 2: 6.

C. However, they are not personally justified until, in due time Christ is actually applied to them by the Holy Spirit: Col. 1: 21,22; Tit. 3: 4-7; Gal. 2:16; Eph. 2: 1-3.

(5)

A. God continues to forgive the sins of those who are justified: Mt. 6:12; 1 June 1: 7-2:. 2; June 13. 3-11.

B. And although they can never fall from the state of justification. Lk. 22:32; 10:28 June.; I 10:14.

C. However , they may, by their sins, fall into God's fatherly displeasure; and in that condition, often they do not receive the restoration of the light of his countenance, until they humble themselves, confess their sins, beg pardon , and renew their faith and repentance: Psalm 32: 5; 51: 7-12; Mt. 26:75; Lk. 1:20.

(6)

A. The justification of believers under the Old Testament was, in all these respects, one and the same as the justification of believers under the New Testament: Gal. 3: 9; Ro. 4: 22-24. Chosen: not appear in some editions of Confession, but in the original.

12. ADOPTION

(1)

A. To all those who are justified: Gal. 3: 24-26.

B. God deigned: 1 June 3: 1-3 . .

C. in his only Son Jesus Christ and love this: Eph. fifteen; Gá.4: 4.5; Ro. 8: 17.29.

D. Make them participate in the grace of adoption, which are included in the number of the children of God and enjoy their liberties and privileges, have their names written on them: Ro. 8:17; 1:12 June.; 2 Cor 6:18; Ap. 3:12.

E. receive the Spirit of adoption, have access to the throne of grace with confidence, trained to cry, "Abba, Father: Rom. 8:15; Eph. 3:12; Ro. 5: 2; Gal. 4: 6; Eph. 2:18.

F. receive compassion, protection, provision and correction as a parent, are never discarded, but are sealed unto the day of redemption: Psalm 103: 13; Pr 14:26.; Matthew 6:30, 32; 1 Peter 5: 7; I have 12: 6; Is 54: 8, 9;. Lm. 3:31; Eph. 4:30 pm.

G. And inherit the promises as heirs of eternal salvation: Rom. 8:17; I 1:14; 9:15.

13. Sanctification

(1)

A. Those who are in Christ, are effectually called and regenerated, having a new heart and a new spirit created in them by virtue of the death and resurrection of Christ: June 3. 3-8; June 1 2:29.; 3: 9,10; Ro. 1: 7; 2 Cor 1: 1; Eph. eleven; Phil. eleven; Col. 3:12; Acts. 20:32; 26:18; Ro. 15:16; 1 Cor 1: 2; 6:11; Ro. 6: 1-11.

B. Even more sanctified of a real and personal way: 1 Thes. 5:23; Ro. 6:19, 22.

3. By the same virtue: 1 Co. 6:11; Acts. 20:32; Phil. 3:10; Ro. 6: 5, 6.

C. By His Word and Spirit dwelling in them: Jul 17:17;. Eph. 5:26; 3: 16-19; Ro. 8:13.

D: The domain of the whole body of sin is destroyed, and the several lusts thereof are weakening and mortifying more and more, and go quickening and strengthening more and more in all the saving virtues, for the practice of all true holiness: ro. 6:14; Gal. 5:24; Ro. 8:13; Col. 1:11; Eph. 3: 16-19; 2 Cor 7: 1; Ro. 6:13; Eph. 4: 22-25; Gal. 5:17.

E. No one will see the Lord: I 12:14.

(2)

A. This sanctification is carried out in the whole man, but is incomplete in this life; there are still some remnants of corruption in every part: 1 Thes. 5:23; June 1 . 1: 8.10; Ro. 7: 18.23; Phil. 3:12.

B. Where a continual and irreconcilable war arises: 1 Corinthians 9: 24-27; 1 Tim. 1:18; 6:12; 2 Tim.4: 7.

C. The flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: Gal. 5:17; 1 Peter 2:11.

(3)

A. In that war, although the remaining corruption prevails much for some time: Ro. 7:23.

B. The part regenerated triumphs through the continued provision of forces by the sanctifying Spirit of Christ: Rom. 6:14; June 1 5: 4;. Eph. 4: 15,16.

C. And so the saints grow in grace, perfecting holiness in the fear of God, pursuing a heavenly life, in evangelical obedience to all the commands which Christ as Head and King, has prescribed in his Word: 2 P. 3:18; 2 Cor 7: 1; 3:18; Mt. 28:20.

14. SAVING FAITH

(1)

A. The grace of faith, whereby the elect are to believe capacity for the salvation of their souls, is the work of the Spirit of Christ in their hearts, and is ordinarily wrought by the ministry of the Word: Jun . 6: 37, 44; Acts. 11:21, 24; 13:48; 14:27; 15: 9; 2 Cor 4:13; Eph. 2: 8; Phil. 1:29; 2 Thes. 2:13; 1 Peter 1: 2.

B. Whereby, and the administration of baptism and the Lord's Supper, prayer and other means appointed by God, that faith increased and strengthened: Ro. 10: 14.17; Lk. 17: 5; Acts. 20:32; Ro.4:11; 1 Peter 2: 2.

(2)

A. By this faith, a Christian believes to be reliable all revealed in the Word for the authority of God himself, and it perceives excellence superior to all other writings and all things in the world, it shows the glory God in his attributes, the excellence of Christ in his nature and offices, and the power and fullness of the Holy Spirit in his works and operations; and thus, the Christian receives ability to trust your soul to the truth and believed. Acts. 24:14; 1 Thes. 2:13; Psalm 19: 7-10; 119: 72.

B. And also acts differently depending on whether the content of each particular passage: yielding obedience to the commands. 15:14 June.; Ro. 16:26.

C. Shuddering to threats: Is . 66: 2.

D. And embracing the promises of God for this life and the next. 1 Tim. 4: 8; I 11:13.

E. But the main actions of saving faith have to do directly with Christ: accept, receive and rest in him alone for justification, sanctification , and eternal life, under the covenant of grace: Jun . 1:12; Acts.15:11; 16:31; Gal. 2:20.

(3)

A. This faith, albeit in a different level and may be weak or strong: Mt. 6:30; 8:10, 26; 14:31; 16: 8; Mt. 17.20; I have 5:13, 14; Ro. 4:19 20.

B. It is, however, still at its lowest level, different in kind and nature (as is all other saving grace) from the faith and common grace of those believers who are only for a time: Stg. 2:14; 2 Peter 1: 1;June 1 5: 4..

C. And as a result, though often attacked and weakened, it is , however, victorious: Lc. 22:31, 32; Eph.6:16; 1 June 5. 4

D. growing in many until complete safety: Psalm 119: 114; I have 6:11, 12; 10:22, 23.

E. Through Christ, who is both the author and finisher of our faith: Hebrews 12: 2.

15. REPENTANCE AND SALVATION FOR LIFE

(1)

A. Those of the elect who become when full grown, having lived for some time in the natural state: Tit. 3: 2-5.

B. And having served in the same to various passions and pleasures, God, to call them effectively, give them repentance unto life 2 Cr . 33: 10-20; Acts. 9: 1-19; 16: 29,30.

(2)

A . While there is no one who does good and does not sin: Psalm 130: 3; 143: 2; Pr.20: 9; Ec. 7:20.

B. and the best men, through the power and deception of corruption dwelling in them, along with the predominance of temptation, may fall into great sins and provocations: 2 Samuel 11: 1-27; Lk. 22: 54-62.

C. God in the covenant of grace, mercifully provided that believers who sin and fall thus be renewed through repentance unto salvation: Jer. 32:40; Lk. 22: 31.32; 1 June 1: 9 . .

(3)

A. This repentance for salvation is an evangelical grace: Acts. 5:31; 11:18; 2 Tim. 2:25.

B. Whereby a person whom the Spirit made ​​aware of the many evils of his sin: Psalm 51: 1-6; 130: 1-3; Lk. 15: 17-20; Acts. 2:37 38.

C. Through faith in Christ: Psalm 130: 4; Mt. 27: 3-5; Mark 1:15.

D. It humiliates by him with a sorrow according to God, he loathes and abhors himself, prays for forgiveness and forces from the grace: Ez. 16: 60-63; 36:31, 32; Zc. 12:10; Mt. 21:19; Acts. 15:19;20:21; 26:20; 2 Corinthians 7:10, 11; 1 Thes. 1: 9.

E. For the purpose and commitment by providing the Spirit, to walk before God to please Him in all: Pr . 28: 13; Ez. 36:25; 18: 30.31; Psalm 119: 59, 104.128; Matthew 3: 8; Lk. 3: 8; Acts. 26:20; 1 Thes. 1: 9.

(4)

A. Since repentance must continue throughout our lives, because of the body of death and inclinations: Ez. 16:60; Matthew 5: 4; 1 June 1: 9 . .

B. It is therefore the duty of every man to repent specifically of the specific sins who knows: Lc. 19: 8;1 Tim. 1: 13,15.

(5)

A. Such is the provision God has done through Christ in the covenant of grace for the preservation of believers to salvation, although there is no sin so small but it deserves damnation: Psalm 130: 3;143: 2; Ro. 6:23.

B. There is, however, so great sin which causes condemnation to those who repent, which requires the constant preaching of repentance: Isa . 1: 16-18; 55: 7; Acts. 2: 36-38.

16. GOOD WORKS

(1)

A . Good works are only those that God has commanded in His Holy Word: Mi 6: 8; Ro. 12: 2; I 13:21;Col. 2: 3; 2 Tim. 3: 16,17.

B. And not, without the authority of this, men have invented by a blind fervor or the pretext that they have good intentions: Matt . 15: 9 Is 29:13; 1 Peter 1:18; Ro. 10: 2; June 16:. 2; 1 Samuel 15: 21-23;1 Cor 7:23; Gal. 5: 1; Col 2: 8.16 to 23.

(2)

A. These good works, done in obedience to God's commandments, are the fruits and evidences of a true and living faith: Jas. 2:18, 22; Gal. 5: 6; 1 Tim. fifteen.

B. And by them believers express their gratitude: Psalm 116: 12-14; 1 Peter 2: 9, 12; Lk. 7: 36-50 with Matthew 26: 1-11.

C. Strengthen security: June 1 . 2: 3, 5; 3:18, 19; 2 Peter 1: 5-11.

D. edify their brethren. 2 Corinthians 9: 2; Mt. 5:16.

E. adorn the profession of the Gospel: Matthew 5:16; Tit. 2: 5, 9-12; 1 Tim. 6: 1; 1 Peter 2:12.

F. Tapan mouth of the adversaries: 1 Peter 2:12, 15; Tit. 2: 5; 1 Tim. 6: 1.

G . And glorify God, whose workmanship they are, created in Christ Jesus for this: Eph. 2:10; Phil.1:11; 1 Tim. 6: 1; 1 Peter 2:12; Mt. 5:16.

H. To that having their fruit unto holiness, have the end eternal life: Rom. 6:22; Mt. 7:13, 14.21 to 23.

(3)

A. The ability of believers to do good works is not themselves in any way, but wholly from the Spirit of Christ. And so they can have this capability, in addition to the virtues they have received, theyneed a real influence of the same Holy Spirit to work in them to will and to do of his good pleasure: Ez. 36: 26,27; June 15:. 4-6; 2 Corinthians 3: 5; Phil. 2: 12,13; Eph. 2:10.

B. However, they should not become careless for it, as if they were not bound by any duty other than a special motion of the Spirit, but must be diligent in stirring up the grace of God in them: Ro. 8:14;June 3. 8; Phil. 2: 12,13; 2 Peter 1:10; I 6:12; 2 Tim. 1: 6; Jud. 20.21.

(4)

A. Those who achieve the highest possible obedience in this life are so far reaching supererogate, and do more of what God requires, they lack much of what of duty are required to do: Kings 8:46 ; 6:36 2 Kr.; Psalm 130: 3; 143: 2; Pr . 20: 9; Ec 7:20.; Ro. 3: 9,23; 7:14 ff .; Gal. 5:17; June 1 . 1: 6-10; Lk.17:10.

(5)

A. We can not, even by our best works, merit pardon of sin or eternal life in God's hand, because of the great disproportion between our work and the glory that is to come. Ro. 8:18.

B. And by the infinite distance between us and God, who can not benefit from these works, nor satisfy the debt of our former sins; even when we have done all we can, but we have not done our duty ,and are unprofitable servants. Job 22: 3; 35: 7; Lk. 17:10; Ro. 4: 3; 11: 3.

C. And both are good as coming from the Spirit: Gal. 5:22, 23.

D. And as they are made ​​by us, they are impure and are mixed with so much weakness and imperfection that they can not endure the severity of God's punishment: 1st R. 8:46; 6:36 2 Kr.;Psalm 130: 3; 143: 2; Pr . 20: 9; Ec 7:20.; Ro. 3: 9,23; 7: 14.GA. 5:17; June 1 . 1: 6-10.

(6)

A. However, believers being accepted through Christ, their good works also are accepted in him. Ex 28:38; Eph. 1: 6.7; 1 Peter 2: 5.

B. Not as if they were in this life wholly blameless and irreproachable in the eyes of God life: 1 Kings 8:46; 6:36 2 Kr.; Psalm 130: 3; 143: 2; Pr . 20: 9; Ec 7:20.; Ro. 3: 9,23; 7; 14ff .; Gal. 5:17; June 1 . 1: 6-10.

C. but that he, looking upon them in his Son, is pleased to accept and reward that which is sincere ,although it is accompanied by many weaknesses and imperfections: I 6:10; Mt. 25: 21,23.

(7)

A. Works done by unregenerate men, although in themselves be things which God commands, and of good use both to themselves and others: 1 Kings 21: 27-29; 2 Kings 10: 30,31; Ro. 2:14; Phil. 1: 15-18.

B. However, not come from a heart purified by faith: Gn. 4: 5 with Hebrews 11: 4-6; 1 Tim. fifteen; Ro.14:23; Gal. 5: 6.

C. And not be done in a right manner according to the Word: 1 Corinthians 13: 3; Is. 1:12.

D. nor to a right end (glory of God): Matthew 6: 2, 5, 6; 1 Cor 10:31.

E. are therefore sinful, and can not please God or make someone worthy to receive grace from God: Rom. 9:16; Tit. 1:15; 3: 5.

F. And despite this, the neglect of good works is more sinful and displeasing to God: 1 Kings 21: 27-29; 2 Kings 10: 30,31; Psalm 14: 4; 36: 3.

17. PERSEVERANCE OF SAINTS

(1)

A. Those whom God has accepted in the Beloved, and effectually called and sanctified by His Spirit, and who has given the precious faith of his elect can not fall from grace in whole or definitely, but certainly persevere it to the end and be saved for eternity, since the gifts and calling of God are irrevocable, so he continues engendering and nurturing in them faith, repentance, love, joy, hope and all the virtues of the Spirit for immortality: Jul . 10: 28,29; Phil. 1: 6; 2 Tim. 2:19; 2 P.1: 5-10; 1 Jun. 2:19.

B. And even arise and flogged them many storms and floods can never wrest the foundation and rock which by faith are clinging; even though, through unbelief and the temptations of Satan, the perceptible vision of light and love of God can ensombrecérseles and oscurecérseles for a while: Ps 89: 31-32; 1 Cor 11:32; 2 Tim. 4: 7.

C. He, however, remains the same, and they will be saved, no doubt, by the power of God for salvation, where they shall enjoy their purchased possession, being them carved into the palms of his hands and names written in the book of life from all eternity: Psalm 102: 27; Mal . 3: 6; Eph.1:14; 1 Peter 1: 5; Revelation 13: 8 . .

(2)

A. This perseverance of the saints depends not upon their own free will, but one of the immutability of the decree of election: Phil. 2: 12,13; Ro. 9:16; June 6. 37.44.

B. It flows free and unchangeable love of God the Father, on the basis of the effectiveness of the merits and intercession of Jesus Christ and union with him: Matthew 24:22, 24:31; Ro. 8:30; 9: 11.16; 11: 2.29; Eph. 1: 5-11.

C. The oath of God: Eph. 1: 4; Ro. 5: 9, 10; 8: 31-34; 2 Cor 5:14; Ro. 8: 35-38; 1 Corinthians 1: 8, 9;14:19 June.; 10:28 29.

D. From the dwelling place of his Spirit, of the seed of God in the saints: Heb 6: 16-20.

E. And the nature of the covenant of grace: June 1 2:19, 20, 27,. 3: 9; 5: 4, 18; Eph. 1:13; 4:30; 2 Cor 1:22; 5: 5; Eph. 1:14.

F. Jer: From all which the certainty and infallibility of perseverance also arise. 31:33, 34; 32:40; I 10: 11-18; 13: 20,21.

(3)

A. And though the saints (through the temptation of Satan and the world, the prevalence of corruption remaining in them and neglect the means for preservation) may fall into serious sins and for some time remain in them: 26 Mt. : 70, 72, 74.

B. (As incur God's displeasure and grieve his Holy Spirit: Psalm 38: 1-8; Isaiah 64: 5-9; Eph 4:30; 1 Thessalonians 5:14....

C. They damage their virtues and consolations: Psalm 51: 10-12.

D. They hardens the heart and conscience hurts them: Psalm 32: 3, 4; 73:21, 22.

E. They hurt and scandalize others: 2 S. 12:14; 1 Corinthians 8: 9-13; Ro. 14: 13-18; 1 Tim. 6: 1, 2; Tit.2: 5.

F. and temporal judgments are trucked): 2 S. 12: 14ff. Gn. 19: 30-38; 1 Corinthians 11: 27-32.

G. renew their repentance and be preserved until the end through faith in Christ Jesus Lk. 22:32, 61.62; 1 Cor 11:32; June 1 . 3: 9; 5:18.

18. THE SAFETY OF GRACE AND SALVATION

(1)

A. Although believers who are so for a while and others unregenerate vainly deceive themselves with false hopes and carnal presumptions that they have God's favor and are in a state of salvation (but hope they perish ): Jer. 17: 9; Matthew 7: 21-23; Lk. 18: 10-14; 8:41 June.; Eph. 5: 6,7; Gal. 6: 3,7-9.

B. Those who truly believe in the Lord Jesus and love him in sincerity, endeavoring to walk in all sincerity before him in this life can be absolutely certain of being in the state of grace, and may rejoice in the hope of glory of God; and such hope never embarrass them, Ro. 5: 2.5; 8:16; June 1 2: 3;. 3:14, 18, ​​19,24; 5:13; 2 Peter 1:10.

(2)

A. This certainly is not a mere conjectural and probable conviction, based on a fallible hope, but an infallible assurance of faith: Rom. 5: 2.5; I have 6:11, 19,20; 1 June 3: 2,14;. 4:16; 5:13, 19,20.

B. Based on the blood and righteousness of Christ revealed in the Gospel: I 6:17 18; 7:22; 10:14 19.

C. And also in the internal evidence of those graces of the Spirit to which this makes them promises: Matthew 3: 7-10; Mark 1:15; 2 Peter 1: 4-11; June 1 2: 3;. 3:14, 18, ​​19, 24; 5:13.

D. And in the testimony of the Spirit of adoption witnessing with our spirit that we are children of God: Rom. 8: 15,16; 1 Cor 2:12; Gal. 4: 6,7.

E. And, as a result of his, keeps the humble and holy heart: 1 June 3: 1-3 . .

(3)

A. This infallible assurance does not belong to the essence of faith to the point that a true believer can not wait long , and conflict with many difficulties before he be part of such security: Acts. 16: 30-34; 1 Jun. 5:13.

B. However, being empowered by the Spirit to know the things that are freely given by God, you can reach: Ro. 8: 15,16; 1 Cor 2:12; Gal. 4: 4-6 with 3: 2; June 1 4:13.; Eph. 3: 17-19; I have 6: 11.12; 2 Peter 1: 5-11.

C. Without an extraordinary revelation, by the proper use of the media; and therefore it is the duty of everyone to be diligent to make your calling and election; so that his heart was enlarged in peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, in love and thankfulness to God, and in strength and cheerfulness in the duties of obedience, which are the proper fruits of this assurance: so is of safety distance is to lead men to debauchery: 2 Peter 1:10; Psalm 119: 32; Ro. 15:13; Neh. 8:10; 1 June 4: 19,16;. Ro. 6: 1, 2,11-13; 14:17; Tit. 2: 11-14; Eph. 5:18.

(4)

A. The safety of the salvation of the true believers can be shaken, diminished and interrupted in various ways by negligence in preserving: I 6:11, 12; 2 Peter 1: 5-11. 

B. By falling into some special sin which wounds the conscience and grieves the Spirit: Psalm 51: 8, 12, 14; Eph. 4:30 pm.

C. by some sudden or strong temptation: Ps 30: 7; 31:22; 77: 7, 8; 116: 11.

D. By withdraw the light from his face, allowing even those who fear him to walk in darkness and have no light: Isa . 50:10.

E. However, never fall short of the seed of God and life of faith, that love of Christ and the brethren, that sincerity of heart and conscience of duty, by which, through the operation of the Spirit, this security can be relived over time; and which, in the meantime, true believers are preserved from falling into utter hopelessness: June 1 . 3: 9; Lk. 22:32; Ro. 8:15, 16; Gal. Four. Five; Psalm 42: 5, 11.

19. THE LAW OF GOD

(1)

A. God gave Adam a law of universal obedience written in his heart , Gn. 1:27; Ec 7:29.; Ro. 2: 12a, 14,15.

B. And a particular precept of not eating the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil: Gn. 2: 16, 17.

C. Therefore he forced him and all his posterity to complete, accurate , and perpetual obedience;promised life upon the fulfillment of his law, and threatened with death by his offense; and also he gave him power and ability to keep: Gn. 2: 16,17; Ro. 10: 5; Gal. 3: 10,12.

(2)

A. The same law that was first written in the heart of man continued to be a perfect rule of righteousness after the Fall: For the Fourth Commandment, Gn. 2. 3; Ex . 16; Gn. 7: 4; 8: 10.12; for the Fifth Commandment, Gn. 37:10; for the Sixth Commandment, Gn. 4: 3-15; for the Seventh Commandment, Gn. 12:17; for the Eighth Commandment, Gn. 31:30; 44: 8; for the Ninth Commandment, Gn. 27:12; for the Tenth Commandment, Gn. 6: 2; 13: 10.11.

B. And it was given by God on Mount Sinai: Ro. 2: 12a, 14,15.

C. In ten commandments, and written in two tables; the first four commandments containing our duty to God, and the other six, our duty towards men: Ex . 32: 15,16; 34: 4.28; Dt . 10: 4.

(3)

A. Besides this law, commonly called moral law, it pleased God to give the people of Israel ceremonial laws containing several typical ordinances; partly of worship, prefiguring Christ, his virtues, actions, sufferings , and benefits: I have 10: 1; Col. 2:16, 17.

B. and partly proposing various instructions of moral duties: 1 Cor 5: 7; 2 Cor 6:17; Jud. 2. 3.

C. All those ceremonial laws, having been prescribed only until the time of his reform, when they were abrogated and taken away by Jesus Christ, the true Messiah and only legislator who was invested with power by the Father for this purpose: Col. 2: 14, 16,17; Eph. 2: 14-16.

(4)

A. God also gave the Israelites various civil laws, which ended when he finished that town as a state, not being now mandatory for anyone under that institution: .lc. 21: 20-24; Acts. 6:13, 14; I 9:18 19cons 8: 7, 13; 9:10; 10: 1.

B. Being only its principles of equity used today: 1 Cor 5: 1; 9: 8-10

(5)

A. The moral law requires forever to all, as well justified as others, to the obedience: Mt. 19: 16-22;Ro. 2: 14-15; 3: 19-20; 6:14; 7: 6; 8: 3; 1 Tim. 1: 8-11; Ro. 13: 8-10; 1 Cor 7:19 with Gal. 5: 6; 6:15;Eph. 4: 25-6: 4; Stg. 2: 11-12.

B. And this not only in regard to its content, but also regarding the authority of God, the Creator, who gave it : Stg. 2: 10-11.

C. Neither Christ in the gospel, in no way cancels this obligation but strengthens considerably: Matthew 5: 17-19; Ro. 3:31; 1 Cor 9:21; Stg. 2: 8.

(6)

A. Although true believers are not under the law as a covenant of works , to be thereby justified or condemned: Acts. 13:39; Ro. 6:14; 8: 1; 10: 4; Gal. 2:16; 4: 4, 5.

B: But it is useful for them and for others, as a rule of life that informs them of the will of God and their duties, directs them and forced to walk in conformity with it: Ro. 7:12, 22, 25; Psalm 119: 4-6;1 Cor 7:19.

C. We also reveals the sinful pollution of their natures, hearts and lives; so that, when examined in the light of it, they can reach a deeper conviction of sin, humiliation for, and hatred against him;along with a clearer view of the need of Christ, and the perfection of his obedience: Rom. 3:20; 7: 7, 9, 14, 24; 8: 3; Stg. 1: 23-25.

D. also is the moral law to the regenerate to restrain their corruptions, in that it forbids sin; and threats serve to show what even their sins deserve, and what afflictions can wait for them in this life, even if they are free from the curse and the sheer extent of the law: Stg. 2:11; Psalm 119: 101, 104.128.

E. also promises manifest regenerated obedience that God approves and what blessings they may expect compliance with it are: Eph. 6: 2, 3; Ps 37:11; Matthew 5: 6; Psalm 19:11.

F. While not as if they are due by law as a covenant of works: Lc. 17:10.

G. So if someone does good and refrains from evil because the law commanded prohibited one and the other, not because it shows that is under the law and not under grace: See book Proverbs;Matthew 3: 7; Lk. 13: 3.5; Acts. 2:40; I 11:26; 1 Peter 3: 8-13.

(7)

A. The uses of the aforementioned law are not contrary to the grace of the gospel, but do sweetly comply with it; For the Spirit of Christ subduing and enabling the will of man to do freely and cheerfully which requires the will of God revealed in the law, Gal. 3:21; Jer. 31:33; Ez. 36:27; Ro. 8: 4; Tit. 2:14.

20. THE GOSPEL AND SCOPE OF HIS GRACE

(1)

A. Having been transgressed the covenant of works by sin and having been useless to give life back, it pleased God give the promise of Christ, the seed of the woman, as the means of calling the elect, and begetting in them faith and repentance. In this promise, the gospel in its substance was revealed, and therefore is effective to bring sinners to conversion and salvation: Gen. 3:15 with Eph 2: 12; Gal. 4: 4; I 11:13; Lk. 2: 25.38; 23:51; Ro. 4: 13-16; Gal. 3: 15-22.

(2)

A. This promise of Christ, and salvation by him, is revealed only by the Word of God: Acts. 4:12; Ro.10: 13-15.

B. Neither the works of creation or providence, with the light of nature, reveal Christ or grace that is through him, not generally or evening: Psalm 19; Ro. 1: 18-23.

C. Equal nor men who do not have a revelation of him by the promise of the gospel can get a saving faith or repentance: Ro. 2: 12a; Mt. 28: 18-20; Lk. 24: 46.47 Ac. 17: 29,30; Ro. 3: 9-20.

(3)

A. The revelation of the gospel to sinners, made ​​in different times and different places, with the addition of promises and precepts for the obedience it requires nations and people to whom it is granted only by the sovereign will and pleasure God: Matthew 11:20.

B. No appropriating under a promise not obtained by good use of the natural abilities of men, or under common light received apart from him, which no one ever did or can do: Ro. 3: 10-12; 8: 7.8.Therefore, in all ages, the preaching of the gospel has been granted to persons and nations, their extension or restriction, with great variety, according to the counsel of the will of God.

(4)

A. Although the Gospel is the only outward means of revealing Christ and saving grace, and is, as such, completely sufficient for this purpose: Ro. 1: 16,17.

B. For men who are dead in trespasses may be born again, be quickened or regenerated, it is also necessary, in every soul, an effective and unsurpassed work of the Holy Spirit, in order to produce in them a new spiritual life ; without it, no other medium can make your conversion to God: Jun .6:44; 1 Cor 1: 22-24; 2:14; 2 Corinthians 4: 4, 6.

21. THE CHRISTIAN FREEDOM AND FREEDOM OF CONSCIENCE

(1)

A. The freedom that Christ has purchased for believers under the gospel consists in their freedom from the guilt of sin, the condemning wrath of God and the severity and curse of the law: Jun . 3:36;Ro. 8:33; Gal. 3:13.

B. and being delivered from this present evil world from slavery to Satan , and dominion of sin: Gal.1: 4; Eph. 2: 1-3; Col. 1:13; Acts. 26:18; Ro. 6: 14-18; 8: 3.

C. From the evil of afflictions, fear and sting of death, victory over the grave and eternal damnation: Ro. 8:28; 1 Corinthians 15: 54-57; 1 Thes. 1:10; I have 2:14, 15.

D. And also to their free access to God, and pay obedience to him, not by a servile fear, but by a filial love and a willing mind. Eph. 2:18; 3:12; Ro. 8:15; 1 Jun. 4:18.

E. All this was also substantially applicable to believers under the law: Jun . 8:32; Psalm 19: 7-9; 119: 14, 24, 45, 47,48, 72.97; Ro. 4: 11.05; Gal. 3: 9; I 11:27 33.34.

F. But under the New Testament the liberty of Christians widens much more because they are free from the yoke of the ceremonial law was holding the Jewish church, and now have more confidence to approach the throne of grace, and have a communication more complete with free Spirit of God who ordinarily were believers under the law: Jun . 1:17; I 1: 1,2a; 7:19, 22; 8: 6; 9:23;11:40; Gal. 2: 11ss.4: 1-3; Col. 2:16, 17; I 10: 19-21; Jun. 7:38, 39.

(2)

A. God alone is Lord of the conscience: Stg. 4:12; Ro. 14: 4; Gal. 5: 1.

B. And made ​​free from the doctrines and commandments of men which are in any way contrary to His Word or not contained therein: Acts. 4:19; 5:29; 1 Cor 7:23; Matthew 15: 9.

C. So believe such doctrines , or obey such commands out of conscience , it is to betray true liberty of conscience: Col. 2:20, 22, 23; Gal. 1:10; 2: 3-5; 5: 1.

D. And require an implicit faith , and an absolute and blind obedience is to destroy liberty of conscience and reason: Ro. 10:17; 14:23; Acts. 17:11; 4:22 June.; 1 Corinthians 3: 5; 2 Cor 1:24.

(3)

A. Those who under the guise of Christian liberty , do practice any sin , or cherish any lust, as well pervert the main purpose of the grace of the gospel to their own destruction: Rom. 6: 1.2.

B. Consequently, completely destroy the purpose of Christian liberty, which is that, being delivered from the hands of our enemies, we may serve the Lord without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our lives: Lk. 1: 74.75; Ro. 14: 9; Gal. 5:13; 2 Peter 2: 18.21.

22. RELIGIOUS WORSHIP AND THE SABBATH

(1)

A. The light of nature shows that there is a God who has lordship and sovereignty over all; It is right, good and does good to all; and, therefore, to be feared, loved, praised, called, believed and served with all your soul, with all your heart and with all your strength: Jer. 10: 7; Mr. 12:33.

B. But the acceptable way of worshiping the true God was instituted by himself, and is in such alimited way by his own revealed will that you should not worship God according to the imaginations and devices of men , or the suggestions of Satan, or under any visible representation or in any other way not prescribed in the Holy Scriptures: Genesis. 4: 1-5; Ex . 20: 4-6; Matthew 15: 3, 8-9; 2 Kings 16: 10-18; Lv. 10: 1-3; Dt . 17: 3; 4: 2; 12: 29-32; Jos. 1: 7; 23: 6-8; Mt. 15:13; Col. 2: 20-23; 2 Tim. 3: 15-17.

(2)

A. Religious worship is given to God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and to him alone: ​​Matthew 4: 9, 10; 5:23 June.; 2 Cor 13:14.

B. No angels or saints, or any other creature: Ro. 1:25; Col. 2:18; Ap. 19:10.

C. And since the Fall, not without a mediator; nor in the mediation of any other but Christ alone: ​​June 14: 6;. Eph. 2:18; Col. 3:17; 1 Tim. 2: 5.

(3)

A. Being prayer, thanksgiving, one part of natural worship, is by God required of all men: Psalm 95: 1-7; 100: 1-5.

B. But for it to be accepted, it must be done in the name of the Son: Jun . 14:13, 14.

C. With the help of the Spirit. Ro. 8:26.

D: According to his will: June 1 5:14..

E. With understanding, reverence, humility, fervency, faith, love and perseverance. Psalm 47: 7; Ec 5: 1, 2,. I 12:28; Gn. 18:27; Stg. 5:16; 1: 6, 7; Mark 11:24; Matthew 6:12, 14, 15; Col. 4: 2; Eph. 6:18.

F. And when you pray with others, should be done in a known language: 1 Corinthians 14: 13-19, 27,28.

(4)

A. Prayer should be for things lawful, and for all kinds of living persons, or who will live later. June 1 5:14; 1 Tim. 2: 1,2; Jun. 17.20.

B. But not for the dead or those who may know who committed the sin unto death: 2 Samuel 12: 21-23; Lk. 16: 25,26; Rev 14:13.; 1 Jun. 5:16.

(5)

A. Reading the Scriptures: Acts. 15:21; 1 Tim. 4:13; Rev 1: 3 . .

B. The preaching and hearing of the Word of God: 2 Tim. 4: 2; Lk. 8:18.

C. Instruction and warning each other through psalms, hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your heart to the Lord, Col. 3:16; Eph. 5:19.

D. As also bautismo4 administration and the Lord's Supper: 28:19, 20.

E. They are part of religious worship of God to be performed in obedience to Him, with understanding, faith, reverence and godly fear; moreover, solemn humiliation: 1 Cor 11:26.

F. With fasting, and thanksgiving on special occasions, are to be used in a holy and godly. Est 4:16;2:12 Jl.; Mt. 9:15; Acts. 13: 2, 3; 1 Corinthians 7: 5, 7. Ex 15: 1-19;. Psalm 107.

(6)

A. Now, under the gospel, neither prayer nor any other part of religious worship are limited to a place, nor are more acceptable by any place in which they occur, or to the address that target: Jun .4:21 .

B. But God is to be worshiped everywhere in spirit and in truth. Mal 1:11; 1 Tim. 2: 8; June 4. 23.24.

C. Whether each family in particular: Dt . 6: 6,7; Job 1: 5; 1 Peter 3: 7.

D. daily: Mt. 6:11.

E. As each secretly alone: ​​Matthew 6: 6.

F. As a most solemn manner in public meetings: Psalm 84: 1, 2, 10; Mt. 18:20; 1 Cor 3:16; 14:25; Eph.2:21, 22.

G. Which are not carelessly or willfully or negligently abandoned when God by His Word or providence calls us to them: Acts. 2:42; I 10:25.

(7)

A. As it is the law of nature that in general a proportion of time, by God 's design, is dedicated to the worship of God and His Word, by a positive, moral , and perpetual commandment binding all men in all ages, particularly God has appointed a day in seven as the Sabbath, to be kept holy to him: Gen. 2. 3; Ex . 20: 8-11; Mark 2:27, 28; Ap. 1:10.

B. Who from the beginning of the world to the resurrection of Christ was the last day of the week and since the resurrection of Christ was changed into the first day of the week, which is called the Lord 's Day and should be continued to the end the world as the Christian Sabbath, being abolished the observance of the last day of the week: Jul . 20: 1; Acts. twenty-one; 20: 7; 1 Corinthians 16: 1; Rev. 1:10.; Col. 2:16, 17.

(8)

A. The Sabbath is kept holy to the Lord when men, after due preparation of his heart and having foreordained all their daily affairs, not only observe a holy rest all day in their own work, words and thoughts: Ex 20: 8-11;. Neh. 13: 15-22; Is 58:13, 14.; Ap. 1:10.

B. About their secular occupations and diversions, but also devote all the time to the public and private practice of worship of God, and the duties which are by necessity and mercy: Matthew 12: 1-13; Mark 2:27, 28.

23. LAWFUL OATHS AND VOWS

(1)

A. A lawful oath is part of religious worship in which the person swearing in truth, righteousness and judgment, solemnly calls God to witness what he swears, and judge him according to the truth or falsity of what he swears: Dt 10:20;. Ex . 20: 7; Lv. 19:12; 2 Kr 6:22, 23.; 2 Cor 1:23.

(2)

A. Men should only swear by the name of God, and in doing so have to use it with all holy fear and reverence. Therefore, swear vainly or rashly by that glorious and fearful name, or just swear by anything else, it is sinful and must reprobated: Dt . 6:13; 28:58; Ex . 20: 7; Jer. 5: 7.

B. However, in matters of weight and importance, for confirmation of truth and to put an end completely to a contest, the Word of God justifies the oath, so when a legitimate authority requires a lawful oath in such cases, the oath should be: I 6: 13-16; Gn. 24: 3; 47: 30.31; 50:25; 1 Kings 17: 1;Neh. 13:25; 5:12; Esd. 10: 5; Nm. 5: 19.21; 1 Kings 8:31; Ex 22:11.; Is 45:23.; 65:16; Mt. 26: 62-64;Ro. 1: 9; 2 Cor 1: 23; Acts. 18:18.

(3)

A. Anyone who takes an oath warranted by the Word of God should seriously consider the seriousness of such a solemn act, and not say the same nothing but what you know is true, because reckless, false and vain oaths is caused the Lord and because of this the earth groans: Ex . 20: 7; Lv.19:12; Nm. 30: 2; Jer. 4: 2; 23:10.

(4)

A. An oath must be done with common words whose meaning is clear, without equivocation or mental reservation: Psalm 24: 4; Jer. 4: 2.

(5)

A. One vote (which must not be made ​​to any creature, but to God). Nm. 30: 2,3; Ps 76:11; Jer. 44: 25,26.

B. It must be done and fulfilled all pious care and fidelity Nm. 30: 2; Psalm 61: 8; 66:13, 14; Eq . 5: 4-6; Is. 19:21.

C. But the papists monastic vows of perpetual celibacy, poverty and obedience intended to ecclesiastical rules, so far from being degrees of higher perfection that are really superstitious and sinful snares in which no Christian should become entangled: 1 Co. 6:18 with 7: 2, 9; 1 Tim. 4: 3;Eph. 4:28; 1 Cor 7:23; Mt. 19:11, 12.

24. CIVIL AUTHORITIES

(1)

A. God, the supreme Lord and King of the world, has instituted civil authorities to submit to him and govern the people: Psalm 82: 1; Lk. 12:48; Ro. 13: 1-6; 1 Peter 2: 13.14.

B. To the glory of God and the public good: Gn. 6: 11-13 with 9: 5,6; Psalm 58: 1,2; 72:14; 82: 1-4; Pr 21:15.; 24: 11.12; 29: 14.26; 31: 5; Ez. 7:23; 45: 9; Dn. 4:27; Mt. 22:21; Ro. 13: 3.4; 1 Tim. 2: 2; 1 Peter 2:14.

C. And to this end, has provided them with the power of the sword, for the defense and encouragement of those who do good, and for the punishment of evildoers: Gn. 9: 6; Pr 16:14.;19:12; 20: 2; 21:15; 28:17; Acts. 25:11; Ro. 13: 4; 1 Peter 2:14.

(2)

A. It is lawful for Christians to accept positions within the civil authority when they are called to fill them : Ex . 22: 8, 9, 28,29; Daniel; Nehemiah; Pr 14:35.; 16: 10.12; 20: 26.28; 25: 2; 28: 15,16; 29: 4.14; 31: 4,5; Ro. 13: 2, 4.6.

B. in the performance of such charges must especially maintain justice and peace, as good laws of each kingdom and state; and so, now for this purpose, under the New Testament, they can lawfully war on just and necessary occasions: Lc. 3:14; Ro. 13: 4.

(3)

A. Having been instituted by God civilian authorities with the aforementioned purposes, they should be held subject: Pr . 16: 14,15; 19:12; 20: 2; 24:21, 22; 25:15; 28: 2; Ro. 13: 1-7; Tit. 3: 1; 1 Peter 2: 13.14.

B. in the Lord in all things lawful: Dn. 1: 8; 3: 4-6,16-18; 6: 5 to 10.22; Mt. 22:21; Acts. 4: 19,20; 5:29.

C. to send, not only because of wrath but also for conscience; and we should offer supplications and prayers for kings and all who are in authority, that under his government live a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty: Jer. 29: 7; 1 Tim. 2: 1-4.

25. MARRIAGE

(1)

A. The marriage must be between a man and a woman; It is not lawful for any man to have more than one wife, nor for any woman to have more than one husband: Gn. 2:24 with Mt. 19: 5,6; 1 Tim. 3: 2;Tit. 1: 6.

(2)

A. Marriage was instituted for the mutual help of husband and wife: Gen. 2:18; Pr 2:17.; Mal. 2:14.

B. To multiply the human race through a legitimate descendants: Gen. 1:28; Psalm 127: 3-5; 128: 3.4.

C. And to avoid impurity: 1 Cor 7: 2.9.

(3)

A. lawfully can marry all kinds of people able to give their consent in his right mind: 1 Co. 7:39; 2 Cor 6:14; I have 13: 4; 1 Tim. 4: 3.

B. However, it is the duty of Christians to marry in the Lord. And therefore, those who profess the true faith should not marry unbelievers or idolaters; neither should such as are godly be unequally yoked, by marrying those who live an evil life or hold damnable heresies: 1 Co. 7:39; 2 Cor 6:14.

(4)

A. Marriage ought not to be within the degrees of consanguinity or affinity forbidden in the Word, nor can such incestuous marriages ever be legalized by any human law, or consent of the parties, so that these people can live together as husband and wife: Lv. 18: 6-18; Am . 2: 7; Mr. 6:18; 1 Cor 5: 1.

26. THE CHURCH

(1)

A. The Christian or universal church: Mt. 16:18; 1 Cor 12:28; Eph. 1:22; 4: 11-15; 5: 23-25, 27, 29, 32;Col. 1:18, 24; I 12:23.

B. That (with respect to the internal work of the Spirit and truth of grace) may be called invisible, consists of the whole number of the elect that have been, are or will be gathered into one under Christ, her head; and is the spouse, the body, the fullness of him who fills all in all: Eph. 1:22; 4: 11-15; 5: 23-25, 27, 29,32; Col. 1:18, 24; Rev. 21: 9-14 . .

(2)

A. All around the world who profess the faith of the gospel and obedience to God by Christ according to it, not destroying their own profession by fundamental errors or impious behavior, they are and may be called visible saints: 1 Cor 1: 2 ; Ro. 1: 7, 8; Acts. 11:26; Mt. 16:18; 28: 15-20; 1 Cor 5: 1-9.

B. And such must be composed all local congregations: Mt. 18: 15-20; Acts. 2: 37-42; 4: 4; Ro. 1: 7; 1 Cor 5: 1-9.

(3)

A. The purest churches under heaven are subject to mixture and error: 1 Co. 1:11; 5: 1; 6: 6; 11: 17-19; June 3 . 9,10; Ap. 2 and 3.

B. And some have degenerated so much that have come Aser no churches of Christ , but synagogues of Satan: Revelation 2: 5 to 1:20;. 1 Tim. 3: 14.15; Rev. 18: 2 . .

C. However, Christ has always had and will always have a kingdom in this world, until the end thereof, composed of those who believe in him and profess his name: Matthew 16:18; 24:14;28:20; Mark 4: 30-32; Ps 72: 16-18; 102: 28; Is . 9: 6,7; Rev. 12:17.; 20: 7-9.

(4)

A. The Head of the Church is the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the Father 's plan , all the power required for call establishment, the order or church government is supreme and sovereign invested: Col. 1 : 18; Eph. 4: 11-16; 1: 20-23; 5: 23-32; 1 Cor 12:27, 28; June 17:. 1-3; Mt. 28: 18-20; Acts. 5:31; June 10: 14-16 . .

B. No Pope of Rome can be the head of it in any sense, but he is that Antichrist, that man of sin and son of perdition, who exalts himself in the church against Christ and all that is called God, whom the Lord shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: 2 Thes. 2: 2-9.

(5)

A. In the exercise of this power which has been entrusted, the Lord Jesus, through the ministry of His Word and by His Spirit, calls itself the world to those who have been given by his Father: Jun . 10 : 16, 23; 12:32; 17: 2; Acts. 5:31 32.

B. That they may walk before him in all the ways of obedience that he prescribes in His Word: Matthew 28:20.

C. A so - called, orders them to walk together in concrete congregations, or churches, for their mutual edification and the due observance of public worship, he requires of them in the world: Mt. 18: 15-20; Acts. 14: 21-23; Tit. fifteen; 1 Tim. 1: 3; 3: 14-16; 5: 17-22.

(6)

A. Members of these churches are saints The calling, and manifest in a visible form and evidence (for his profession of faith and conduct) their obedience to the call of Christ: Matthew 28: 18-20; Acts.14: 22,23; Ro. 1: 7; 1 Cor 1: 2 with vv. 13-17; 1 Thes. 1: 1 with vv. 2-10; Acts. 2: 37-42; 4: 4; 5: 13.14.

B. And voluntarily agree to walk together, according to the plan of Christ, giving themselves to theLord and each other, by the will of God, professing Subject to the provisions of the gospel: Acts. 2: 41,42; 5: 13.14; 2 Cor 9:13.

(7)

A. To each of these churches thus gathered, the Lord, according to his declared in His Word will, has given all the power and authority necessary to carry out any order in worship and discipline sense that he has instituted for they keep; together with commands and rules for the proper and correct exercise and implementation of that power: Mt. 18: 17-20; 1 Cor 5: 4, 5,13; 2 Corinthians 2: 6-8.

(8)

A. A local, gathered and completely organized according to the will of Christ church is composed of officers and members; and the officers appointed by Christ to be chosen and set apart by the church (so called and gathered), for the peculiar administration of ordinances and the exercise of power or duty, which he entrusted to them or calling them , to continue until the end of the world, are bishops or elders, and deacons: Phil. eleven; 1 Tim. 3: 1-13; Acts. 20:17, 28; Tit. 1: 5-7; 1 Peter 5: 2.

(9)

A. The way appointed by Christ for the calling of any person who has been called and gifted by the Holy Spirit: Eph. 4:11; 1 Tim. 3: 1-13.

B. For the office of bishop or elder in a church, is to be chosen for it by the common vote of the church itself: Acts. 6: 1-7; 14:23 with Matthew 18: 17-20; 1 Corinthians 5: 1-13.

C. And solemnly section through fasting and prayer with the laying on of hands of the elders of the church, if there are some previously made ​​it: 1 Tim. 4:14; 5:22.

D. And to the office of deacon, to be chosen by the same vote and set apart by prayer and the same laying on of hands: Acts. 6: 1-7.

(10)

A. As the work of pastors constantly to attend the service of Christ in their churches, in the ministry of the Word and prayer, and watch for your souls, as those who must give account to him: Acts. 6: 4; 1 Tim. 3: 2; 5:17; I 13:17.

B. It is the responsibility of the churches to which they minister not only give all due respect, but also share with them all their good things according to their possibilities: 1 Tim. 5:17, 18; 1 Cor 9:14;Gal. 6: 6, 7.

C: So they have adequate provision, without having to become entangled in secular activities: 2 Ti. 2: 4.

D. And can also practice hospitality towards others: 1 Tim. 3: 2.

E. This requires the law of nature and express mandate of our Lord Jesus, who has commanded that those who preach the gospel should live by the gospel: 1 Corinthians 9: 6-14; 1 Tim. 5:18.

(eleven)

A. Although it is the responsibility of the bishops or pastors of the churches, according to his office, constantly dedicated to the preaching of the Word, the work of preaching the Word is not so peculiarly confined to them but that others also gifted and qualified by the Holy Spirit for it and approved and called by the church, they can and should perform it : Acts. 8: 5; 11: 19-21; 1 Peter 4: 10.11.

(12)

A. All believers are bound to join local churches when and where they have opportunity. Also, all those who are admitted to the privileges of a church are also subject to the discipline and government of the same, according to the norm of Christ: 1 Thes. 5:14; 2 Thes. 3: 6, 14.15; 1 Cor 5: 9-13; I 13:17.

(13)

A. No church member, for any offense received, having fulfilled the duty required of him to the person who has offended you, should disturb the order of the church, missing meetings or church or refrain from participation in any ordinances for such an offense of any other member, but must wait in Christ while continue the actions of the church: Mt. 18: 15-17; Eph. 4: 2,3; Col. 3: 12-15; 1 June 2: 7-11, 18.19;. Eph. 4: 2,3; Mt. 28:20.

(14)

A. Since each church, and all members are obliged to pray continually for the good and prosperity of all the churches of Christ in all places and at all times help each within the limits of their areas and vocations, in the exercise of their gifts and virtues. June 13:. 34,35; 17: 11,21-23; Eph. 4: 11-16;6:18; Ps 122: 6; Ro. 16: 1-3; June 3 June 2 8-10 with 5-11..; Ro. 15:26; 2 Cor 8: 1-4,16-24; 9: 12-15;Col. 2: 1 to 1: 3, 4.7 and 4: 7,12.

B. So the churches, when they are established by the providence of God so that they may enjoy the opportunity and benefit from it: Gal. 1: 2.22; Col. 4:16; Ap . 1: 4; Ro. 16: 1,2; 3 Jun. 8-10.

C. should have fellowship with one another, for peace, love and growth in mutual edification: 1 June 4: 1-3 2 and 3 John;. Ro. 16: 1-3; 2 Corinthians 9: 12-15; Jos. 22.

(fifteen)

A. In cases of difficulties or differences in doctrine or church government, in which churches in general or one church are concerned about their peace, union and building; or one or more members of a church are damaged by disciplinary procedures that do not match the truth and order, is according to the will of Christ that many churches have fellowship with one another, they meet through their representatives to consider and his advice on the issues in dispute, to inform all the churches involved: Gal. 2: 2; Pr . 3: 5-7; 12:15; 13:10.

B. However, the representatives meeting were not allowed any ecclesiastical power delivery itself or jurisdiction over them to exercise discipline on any of them or their member churches, or to impose its decisions on them or their officers: 1 Cor.7 : 25, 36, 40; 2 Cor 1:24; June 1 . 4: 1.

27. COMMUNION OF SAINTS

(1)

A. All saints that are united to Jesus Christ: Eph. 1: 4; June 17:. 2, 6; 2 Cor 5:21; Ro. 6: 8; 8:17; 8: 2; 1 Cor 6:17; 2 Peter 1: 4.

B. His head, by his Spirit and through faith: Eph. 3:16, 17; Gal. 2:20; 2 Corinthians 3:17, 18.

C. (but certainly not come to be a person with him): 1 Corinthians 8: 6; Col. 1:18, 19; 1 Tim. 6:15, 16;Is . 42: 8; Psalm 45: 7; I 1: 8, 9.

D. participate in their virtues, sufferings, death, resurrection and glory: June 1 . 1: 3; 1:16 June.; 15: 1-6; Eph. 2: 4-6; Ro. 4:25; 6: 1-6; Phil. 3:10; Col. 3: 3,4.

E. And, being united to one another in love, they involved another of his gifts and virtues: Jul 13:34, 35;. 14:15; Eph. 4:15; 1 Peter 4:10; Ro. 14: 7, 8; 1 Cor 3: 21-23; 12: 7 : 25-27.

F. Y are obliged to comply with such duties, public and private, in an orderly manner, leading to their mutual good, both inside and outside man: Rom. 1:12; 12: 10-13; 1 Thes. 5: 11,14; 1 Peter 3: 8; 1 June 3: 17,18;. Gal. 6:10.

(2)

A. The Saints by profession are bound to maintain each other holy fellowship and communion in the worship of God and the fulfillment of other spiritual services as tend to their mutual edification: I 10:24, 25; 3:12, 13.

B. and to help each other in outward things according to their abilities and needs: Acts. 11:29, 30; 2 Cor 8, 9; Gal. 2; Ro. fifteen.

C. According to the standard of the gospel, though this communion must be exercised especially in relationships where they are located, whether in families or in churches: 1 Tim. 5: 8, 16; Eph. 6: 4;1 Cor 12:27.

D. should be extended, as God gives opportunity, the whole family of faith, that is, to all who everywhere call upon the name of the Lord Jesus: Acts. 11:29, 30; 2 Cor 8, 9; Gal. 2; 6:10; Ro.fifteen.

E. However, their mutual communion as saints does not take away or infringe the right or property which every man has on his property and possessions: Acts. 5: 4; Eph. 4:28; Ex. 20:15.

28. BAPTISM AND THE LORD'S SUPPER

(1)

A. Baptism and the Lord's Supper are ordinances that have been positive and sovereignly instituted by the Lord Jesus, the only legislator: 28:19, 20; 1 Cor 11:24, 25.

B. to continue in the church until the end of the world: Matthew 28: 18-20; Ro. 6: 3, 4; 1 Corinthians 1: 13-17; Gal. 3:27; Eph. Four. Five; Col. 2:12; 1 Peter 3:21; 1 Cor 11:26; Lk. 22: 14-20.

(2)

A. These holy institutions must be administered only by those who are qualified and called to it, according to the commission of Christ: Matthew 24: 45-51; Lk. 12: 41-44; 1 Cor 4: 1; Tit. 1: 5-7.

29. BAPTISM

(1)

A. Baptism is an ordinance of the New Testament , instituted by Jesus Christ, to be to the person baptized a sign of his fellowship with him in his death and resurrection, of being grafted on it: Ro.6: 3-5; Col. 2:12; Gal. 3:27.

B. From the remission of sins: Mark 1: 4; Acts. 22:16.

C. And his dedication to God through Jesus Christ to live and walk in newness of life: Ro. 6: 4.

(2)

A. Those who actually profess repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ and obedience to him are right to receive this ordinance only: Matthew 3: 1-12; Mark 1: 4-6; Lk. 3: 3-6;Mt. 28: 19,20; Mark 16: 15,16; June 4. 1.2; 1 Corinthians 1: 13-17; Acts. 2: 37-41; 8: 12,13,36-38;9:18; 10: 47.48; 11:16; 15: 9; 16: 14,15,31-34; 18: 8; 19: 3-5; 22:16; Ro. 6: 3.4; Gal. 3:27; Col. 2:12;1 Peter 3:21; Jer. 31: 31-34; Phil. 3: 3; June 1. 12.13; Mt. 21:43.

(3)

A. The outer member to be used in this ordinance is water, which must be baptized: Mt. 3:11; Acts. 8: 36.38; 22:16.

B. The person in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit: Matthew 28: 18-20.

C. The immersion of the person in the water is necessary for the proper administration of this ordinance: 2 Kings 5:14; Ps 69: 2; Is . 21: 4; Mark 1: 5,8-9; 3:23 June.; Acts. 8:38; Ro. 6: 4; Col. 2:12;Mark 7: 3,4; 10: 38,39; Lk. 12:50; 1 Corinthians 10: 1-2; Mt. 3:11; Acts. 1: 5.8; 2: 1 to 4.17.

30. THE LORD'S SUPPER

(1)

A. The Lord's Supper was instituted by Jesus the same night that he was delivered: 1 Corinthians 11: 23-26; Mt. 26: 20-26; Mark 14: 17-22; Lk. 22: 19-23.

B. To be observed in their churches: Acts. 2:41, 42; 20: 7; 1 Corinthians 11: 17-22, 33.

C. Hasta el fin del mundo: Mr. 14:24, 25; Lk. 22: 17-22; 1 Corinthians 11: 24-26.

D. For the perpetual remembrance and the manifestation of the sacrifice of himself in his death: 1 Cor 11: 24-26; Matthew 26:27, 28; Lk. 22:19, 20.

E. To confirm the faith of believers in all the benefits of it: Ro. 4:11.

F. For their spiritual nourishment and growth in him: Jun 6:29, 35.47 to 58..

G To a greater commitment to all obligations owed ​​to him. 1 Cor 11:25.

H. And to be a bond and pledge of their communion with him and among them another: 1 Cor 10: 16,17.

(2)

A. In this ordinance Christ is not offered to his Father, nor any real sacrifice for the remission of sin or living or dead is made ​​at all; but it is only a memorial of that one offering of himself and by himself on the cross, once for ever: Jun . 19:30; I 9: 25-28; 10: 10-14; Lk. 22:19; 1 Cor 11:24, 25.

B. And a spiritual offering of all possible praise to God for the same: Matthew 26:26, 27, 30.

C. So the papal sacrifice of the mass, as they call it , is most abominable, injurious to the sacrifice of Christ himself, the only propitiation for all the sins of the elect: Hebrews 13: 10-16.

(3)

A. The Lord Jesus, in this ordinance, has appointed his ministers to pray and bless the elements of bread and wine, and that apart from a common use for sacred use; to take and break the bread, and take the cup and (participating also themselves) to give both participants: Co. 11: 23-26; Mt. 26: 26-28; Mark 14: 24,25; Lk. 22: 19-22.

(4)

A. Denying the cup to church members: Mt. 26:27; Mr. 14:23; 1 Corinthians 11: 25-28.

B. Worshipping the elements, raise them or take them from one place to another to worship and save them for any pretended religious use: Ex . 20: 4, 5.

C. It is contrary to the nature of this ordinance as Christ instituted. Matthew 15: 9.

(5)

A. External elements of this ordinance, duly separated for use ordained by Christ, have such relation to the Crucified in a true sense, but figuratively, they are sometimes called by the name of the things they represent, namely : the body and blood of Christ: 1 Cor 11:27; Matthew 26: 26-28.

B. However, in substance and nature, they still remain truly and only bread and wine, as they were before: 1 Corinthians 11: 26-28; Mt. 26:29.

(6)

A. The doctrine which maintains a change of substance of bread and wine into the substance of the body and blood of Christ (commonly called transubstantiation) by consecration of a priest, or in some other way, is repugnant not only to Scriptures. Mt. 26: 26-29; Lk. 24: 36-43, 50, 51; 1:14 June.; 20: 26-29; Acts. 1: 9-11; 3:21; 1 Corinthians 11: 24-26; Lk. 12: 1; Rev. 1:20.; Gn. 17:10, 11; Ez.37:11; Gn. 41:26, 27.

B. But also to common sense and reason; overthrows the nature of the ordinance; and it has been and is the cause of many superstitions and also of crass idolatry.

(7)

A. Those who receive this ordinance worthily: 1 Corinthians 11:28.

B. participating externally visible elements, also inwardly by faith, a real and true, though not carnal or bodily, but spiritually feeding of Christ crucified and receive all the benefits of his death. Jun 6:29 , 35, 47-58.

C: The body and blood of Christ are then neither carnal nor body but spiritually present in this ordinance for the faith of believers, as well as the elements themselves they are for your body senses: 1 Cor 10:16.

(8)

A. All ignorant and ungodly, not being unfit to enjoy communion with Christ are, therefore, unworthy of the Lord's table and, while they remain as such, can not, without sinning greatly against him, partake of these holy mysteries or admitted to them: Matthew 7: 6; Eph. 4: 17-24; 5: 3-9; Ex . 20: 7,16; 1 Cor 5: 9-13; 2 June 10.; Acts. 2: 41,42; 20: 7; 1 Corinthians 11: 17-22, 33-34.

B. also receive them unworthily whoever is guilty of the body and blood of the Lord, for eats and drinks judgment to himself: 1 Cor 11: 20-22,27-34.

31. THE STATE OF MAN AFTER DEATH AND RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD

(1)

A. The bodies of men turn to dust after death and corruption are: Gn. 2:17; 3:19; Acts. 13:36; Ro. 5: 12-21; 1 Cor 15:22.

B. But their souls (which neither die nor sleep) having an immortal subsistence, immediately return to God who gave them : Gn. 2: 7; Stg. 2:26; Mt. 10:28; Eq . 12: 7.

C. The souls of the righteous, being then perfected in holiness, are received in Paradise where they are with Christ, and behold the face of God in light and glory, waiting for the full redemption of their bodies: Psalm 23: 6; 1 Kings 8: 27-49; Is 63:15.; 66: 1; Lk. 23:43; Acts. 1: 9-11; 3:21; 2 Cor 5: 6-8; 12: 2-4; Eph. 4:10; Phil. 1: 21-23; I 1: 3; 4: 14.15; 6:20; 8: 1; 9:24; 12:23; Ap . 6: 9-11; 14:13;20: 4-6.

D. The souls of the wicked are cast into hell, where they remain in torment and utter darkness, reserved for judgment of the great day Lc. 16: 22-26; Acts. 1:25; 1 Peter 3:19; 2 Peter 2: 9.

Outside these two places for souls separated from their bodies, the Scriptures do not support any other.

(2)

A. The Saints who are alive on the last day not sleep, but will be transformed: 1 Corinthians 15: 50-53; 2 Cor 5: 1-4; 1 Thes. 4:17.

B. And all the dead will be resurrected: Dn. 12: 2; June 5:28, 29.; Acts. 24:15.

C. With their own bodies, and not others: Job 19:26, 27; June 5:28, 29.; 1 Corinthians 15: 35-38, 42-44.

D. although with different qualities: 1 Corinthians 15: 42-44,52-54.

E. And they will come together again to their souls forever: Dn. 12: 2; Mt. 25:46.

(3)

A. The bodies of the unjust, through the power of Christ, will be raised to dishonor: Dn. 12: 2; Jun. 5:28, 29.

B. The bodies of the just, by his Spirit: Rom. 8: 1, 11; 1 Cor 15:45; Gal. 6: 8.

C. To honor: 1 Cor 15: 42-49.

D. And will then be like the glorious body of Christ facts: Ro. 8: 17,29,30; 1 Corinthians 15: 20-23,48,49; Phil 3:21.; Col. 1:18; 3. 4; June 1 3: 2;. Rev. 1: 5 . .

32. THE FINAL JUDGMENT

(1)

A. God has appointed a day in which he will judge the world in righteousness by Jesus Christ, to whom all power and judgment has been given by the Father: Acts. 17:31; Jun. 5:22, 27.

B. On that day not only the apostate angels shall be judged 1 Corinthians 6: 3; Jud. 6.

C. but also all the people who have lived on the earth appear before the tribunal of Christ: Mt. 16:27;25: 31-46; Acts. 17:30, 31; Ro. 2: 6-16; 2 Thes. 1: 5-10; 2 Peter 3: 1-13; Ap . 20: 11-15.

D. to account for their thoughts, words and actions, and to receive according to what they have done while in the body, whether good or bad: 2 Cor 5:10; 1 Cor 4: 5; Mt. 12:36.

(2)

A. God's purpose in establishing this day is the manifestation of the glory of his mercy in the eternal salvation of the elect, and his justice in the eternal damnation of the reprobate, who are wicked and disobedient: Ro. 9: 22, 23.

B. for then the righteous will enter into eternal life and receive the fullness of joy and glory with eternal rewards in the presence of the Lord; but the wicked, who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of Jesus Christ, they shall be cast into eternal torment and punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his power: Mt. 18: 8; 25: 41.46; 2 Thes. 1: 9; I have 6: 2; Jud. 6; Rev. 14:10, 11;. Lc. 3:17; Mark 9: 43.48; Mt. 3:12; 5:26; 13: 41,42;24:51; 25:30.

(3)

A. As Christ wants us to be totally convinced that there will be a Day of Judgment, both to deter all men from sin: 2 Corinthians 5:10, 11.

B. to be of greater consolation of the godly in their adversity: 2nd Ts. 1: 5-7.

C. and also wants men do not know when will that day, for relinquishing all carnal security and are always looking for they know not what time shall the Lord: Mark 13: 35-37; Lk. 12: 35-40.

D. and are always ready to say: Come, Lord Jesus; come quickly, Amen: Ap . 22: 20

 "This little volume is not presented as an authoritative rule or a code of faith, but as an aid in cases of controversy, a confirmation in faith and a means of building on justice. In it the youngest of our church members will have a summary of divine teachings set, and through biblical evidence, be prepared to give a reason for the hope that is in them.

Do not be ashamed of your faith; remember that it is the ancient gospel of martyrs, confessors, reformers and saints. Above all, it is God's truth, against which the gates of hell can not prevail. Make your life decorate your faith, let your example adorn your beliefs. Above all, she lives in Christ Jesus, and remains in him, not believing any teaching that has not been clearly approved by him and is itself the Holy Spirit. Cling to the Word of God is explained here for you Hadon Charles Spurgeon (1834-1892) London Baptist Confession of Faith of 1689 - Spanish.