A catechism and plain instruction for Children, which prepare themselves to communicate in the holy Supper, yielding therein openly a reason of their faith, according to the order of the french Church at London. Written in French by Monsieur fountain, Minister of the same church there, and lately translated into English by T.W.  Psalm. 19. verse 12. 
The lawe of the lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, and giveth wisdom unto the simplo.  1. Peter. 3. verse 15. 
Be always prepared, with gentleness and reverence to answer every one, that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you.  
AT LONDON Printed by henry Middleton, for Thomas Man.   

To the right worshipful, and his very dear friend in Christ, M. Thomas Saunders Maior of the city of Couentrie, and all the worshipful Aldermen his brethren, and the rest of the Magistrates, Ministers, and whole commonalty of the same city, T.W. wisheth all blessings both bodily and spiritual, from God the father, in his dear son CHRIST our alone saviour.  
IT is( right worshipful and dearly beloved) a very lamentable and pitiful thing to consider( especially to those which are lively touched with the spiritual wants of their brethren) howe much blindness and ignorance prevaileth in these our dayes, wherein the lord hath given such great light of his truth, both by preaching and writing, as( if all circumstances may be rightly weighed) I suppose verily in no age more. But it is far more miserable, to behold( if wee could with Christian pity and love see it, either in ourselves or others) the horrible heaps of transgressions, and the world of wickedness, that generally, as a huge swelling sea overfloweth all, notwithstanding that great plenty and brightness which wee haue of the glorious gospel of truth. What it will please the lord by this hereafter to work, either in mercy or iudgement towards us, as I cannot certainly pronounce, so this I dare boldly affirm, that as he would not vouchsafe us, any greater blessing in this life, then to make the clear sunshine of his holy word burst forth into our dark and ignorant souls, for our reformation and amendment, if with trembling heartes and reverent mindes, we could receive the same to our eternal comfort: so on the other side, we can hardly in the dayes of our pilgrimage haue a more evident spectacle of his most just wrath against us for our sins, then so evident manifestation of that lively truth, which he most graciously offereth, as the effectual instrument of our reconciliation to his majesty in his son Christes obedience, if wee shall most vngratiously continue( as heretofore wee haue done) in treading it under our feet, to our everlasting condemnation in our own iniquity, unless it please him, even as it were by violence to pull us out of that most miserable destruction wherein we are deeply plunged. Most true certainly, and comfortable is it, that the Prophet Isay saith: 
Isay. 55.10, 11  that as the rain cometh down and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thether but watereth the earth, and maketh it to bring forth and bud that it may give seed to the sour, and bread unto him that eateth: so shall the word be that cometh out of Gods mouth: it shall not return void but it shall accomplish that which he will,& it shall prosper in the things whereunto he sendeth it. But with all, fearful and terrible is that which S. Paul speaketh, that The ministery of the word is to some, the savour of death unto death: 
2. Cor. 2.16.  and that saying also in the Epistle to the hebrews, that That ground which drinketh in the rain, 
Heb. 6.7, 8.  that cometh often vpon it, and beareth nothing but thorns and briars, is reproved,& is near unto cursing:& the end therof is to be burned. These several effects of the word, in several& sundry persons, proceed not from the word itself( for that is always the word of life) but from the malice and rebellion of our own heartes, who haue such abundance of venom and poison in us, that look whatsoever good thing wee receive, we do as spiders turn it to the increase of our own corrupted nature. These things when we hear, and consent to the truth of them indeed, ought we not, though we be but slenderly touched with godliness, both to reverence God in his judgements, and also condemn ourselves in our own naughtiness, and labour( if we haue any love of our own salvation) to come out of this dyrtie dungeon, wherein is nothing save the mire and day of all transgression? Yes verily. But alas howe small is the number of those, that travel in that behalf? Nay rather howe many are there, that never labour the removing of those stumbling blocks, which lye in their own ways? Yea which is fearful to think, but much more horrible to express, what great swarms are there, that rather then they would not be letted, will let and hinder themselves in the course of godliness: 
Luke. 16.8.  What shall we say? Shall the children of this world still be wiser in their generation, then the children of light? Will we never learn, to bee as careful for the things that concern the hope of a better life, as they are painful and laborious for the vain and transitory things of this world? Shall neither Gods commandements, nor his promises, nor his punishments cause us to be more diligent and watchful, then either we haue been, or yet are? If there fall a bnfice or prebend, a farm or lease, or any such like, what running and riding is there to attain the same? Horse and man to travell day and night is nothing, no, no cost or pains will be spared to atchicue it, and yet many times men are prevented, for some one or other cometh now and then between thē and home: the lord even by this crossing of us in temporal things, teaching us not onely howe vain and uncertain they themselves are, but in what great regard and estimation wee ought to haue those things, that endure and abide for ever. And yet for all this, how little account is made of them that concern eternal life, who seeth not? The Lord in great plenty offereth them unto us, and bringeth them home as it were unto our doors, and yet we will none of them: 
Isay. 55.1. &c.  he biddeth us take them of free cost, and yet we refuse the same: Yea and though we may haue such assurance of them and profit by them, not onely for this life, but also for the life to come, as none can take them from us, yet do we either suffer ourselves easily to bee overrun in that race, or else offer a manifest& manifold contempt of these graces, alleging either our pleasures or our profits, as they did that were called to the marriage of the kings son. 
Matth. 22.5, 6.  certainly that may at this time be verified in us, which was long a go written, in the first chapter of the holy gospel of Iesus christ, according to Saint John: 
John. 1.5.  That light shineth in the darkness, and the darkness comprehendeth it not: 
Rom. 1.20.  not that our ignorance can excuse us, for we haue so much light and clearness within us,( notwithstanding our original sin) as doth make us utterly without excuse: but that it doth sufficiently bewray the blindness, malice and corruption of our own heartes, who do turn the light that is in us into darkness( and then how great is that darkness of ours? 
Mat. 6.23. ) and do contemptuously cast from us the salvation of our GOD. Now if it shal be easier in the day of iudgement, 
Matth. 11.20.  for them of Tyrus, Sydon, Sodom,& Gomorrah thē for thē of Chorazin& Capernaum: in what a miserable case are we? who besides, that wee haue the doctrine of the old and new Testament confirmed by the miracles of christ, his prophets and Apostles, haue Iesus Christ liuelie described in our sight, and amongst us crucified. 
Galat. 3.1. Heb. 2.1, 3.  Wherefore we ought diligently to give heed, to the things which we haue heard, least at any time we run out, 
He. 10.28.29.  and to beware that wee neglect not so great salvation offered: for if he that despiseth Moses lawe, death without mercy under two or three witnesses: 
Heb. 10.28, 29  of howe much sorer punishment suppose ye, shall he be worthy, which treadeth under foot the son of God, and counteth the blood of the testament, wherewith he was sanctified, as an vnholie thing, and doth despite the spirit of grace? For the avoiding of which mischiefs and evils,& for the performance of contrary good things, it were necessary that every good man that calleth vpon the name of Christ should not onely strive in his own person to depart from iniquity, 
2. Tim. 2.19.  but also according to his calling, should haue an eye over other for their good:& should carefully labour the building up both of himself and others, as in knowledge, that by that means, the note of ignorance and blindness justly laid upon us, might bee removed& taken away: so in obedience& practise, that carelessness, carnality,& atheism, professed, though not in words perhaps, yet in deeds& conversation, might be turned into a holy care& conscience to walk before God& men, as becometh his sainctes,& therewith the mouths of slanderous Papists stopped, who fear not to affirm( though vntruely indeed) that we neither preach, profess, or practise good works. wherefore amongst others, it behoveth all you( right worshipful and dear friends) according to the several places, wherein God hath set you, carefully to endeavour the promoting of Gods glory, both in yourselves, and others: and so much the rather you should strive unto this, by how much you haue a name of life and light, how justly or unjustly I will not now dispute: this onely I say, 
revel 3.1.  that as I do even from the bottom of my heart beseech the Lord on your behalfs to assist you with grace, 
Reue. 2.5. & strength answerable to the report that goeth of you, least otherwise your candlestick be justly removed, and the light given you, for hypocrisy, contempt, or disobedience taken from you, and bestowed vpon others, that in good time ye will bring forth the fruits therof: so, in the bowels of Christ I pray you all, one and other, from the highest to the lowest, 
Mat. 21.43.  to bee vigilant and watchful therein, that when the great lord and master of the house shall appear, he may find you, 
Matth 24.45.46, 47. &c.  not smiting your fellow servants, or else eating and drinking with the drunken, and so cut you of, and give you your portion with hypocrites, where shall be continual weeping, wailing, and gnashing of teeth, but faithfully and wisely occupied, 
Matth. 25.21.  that so you may enter into your masters ioy, and be made rulers over all his goods. You Magistrates therefore, and men of public charge, set up, and keep continually in repair amongst you, these two strong pillars, piety towards God, and iustice or righteousness towards men, for both in the flourishing state of your city, and in the distress of the same( which God remove if he see it so good) they will stand you in more steede, and be better for you, then brazen walls( if you could possibly haue them) or the mightiest bulwarks or ramparts in the world whatsoever. And as in respect of your own particular persons, and public callings, you must always hate covetousness, 
Exod. 18.21.  and private gain, endeavouring continually to be good commonwealths men, faithfully executing your duty under God and her majesty, rather than excessively rich and wealthy: so you ought especially to haue an eye to your youth, which is( as it were) the fry of your city, and take heed that they avoyde above all other wickedness, idleness, which is the bed, wherein the devill and our flesh do not onely beget, but also bring forth innumerable multitudes of corrupt children, as Atheistrie or godlesnesse, disobedience, and contempt of Magistrates, Ministers, Parents, and Maisters, drunkenness, gluttony, whoredom, thievery, beggary, and such like. You Ministers, feed the flock of God, which dependeth vpon you, 
1. Pet. 1.2.  caring for it not by constraint, but willingly, not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind: and think it not sufficient to preach now and then, as once in a quarter, once in a month, or so: but as the Apostle saith, in season and out of season, 
2. Tim 4.2.  and labour not only publicly, 
Act. 5.42.  but go privately from house to house, that so you may see the growth and increase of your travels, and chiefly give yourselves to Cathechizing, 
Gal 6. ●. Heb. 6.2.  which as it is a very ancient and profitable order in the church of God, so lieth it vpon you as a principal point of your charge by Gods word, and the good laws of this land, knowing that the neglect of it among other wants( as of Christian discipline, earnest prayer, holy fasting, and such like) hath been as I take it, one great cause of all backwardness& ignorance in our people. I prescribe no form, nor any one order of catechizing for that belongeth not to me any manner of way, you haue many in print and all by public authority allowed, as the catechism of our own Church, master Caluins, and now this, the very abridgement thereof. This only I desire, and crave at your hands that you would continually use this so profitable an exercise for the people, and so dutiful in respect of yourselves, that you may give up your accounts with ioy, 
Heb. 13.17. 1. Pet. 5.4.  and not with grief, so that when that chief shepherd shall appear, you may in a good conscience say, as paul the Apostle of the Gentiles saith, 
2. Tim. 4.7.  I haue fought a good fight, and haue finished my course, I haue kept the faith, and so receive an incorruptible crown of Glory. 
Ephes. 6.4.  You Parentes provoke not your children to wrath, but bring them up in instruction, and information of the Lord, the duty that God, both by the light of his word and nature hath laid vpon you, requireth this at your hands, so that you can not neglect it, without a double transgression. And in the education and government of your infants and children, beware of these two extremes, that is, that you turn not your fatherly authority either into overmuch rigour, or cruelty on the one side, or into everich familiarity on the other side, both of them bringing with thē, unless they be avoyded, innumerable inconveniences, as dissoluteness of life, wantonness, contempt, unnaturalness, hard hartednesse, and many such like mischiefs, condemned both by God and nature. 
Coloss. 4.1. Ephes. 6.9.  And you Masters, do continually unto your seruants that which is just and equal, putting away wrath and threatenings, knowing that this is the ready way to haue your children loving, and your seruants obedient, and both of them dutiful towards you, even to walk in care and conscience of performance of your charges towards God, who is the same to you, that you are to your sons and seruants. look therefore what time you haue from your ordinary vocations, as you haue the sabbath dayes ordained by God himself, and over many idle holidays, besides a number of very corrupt seasons and sports, as shrovetide, Hocktuesday, Maygames, Corpus Christi plays, midsummer watches, and such like, which you take to yourselves, without any warrant from Gods word, or ground of good laws, having no better foundation, but wicked and canckred custom, devised no doubt in the time of popery and blindness, to keep the hearts and heads of the people occupied from looking into the most vile and gross abominations of that superstitious and devilish sect: look I say, what time soever you haue, from your lawful callings, employ all that( yea and somewhat also from your ordinary offices, rather than you would be ignorant) in learning yourselves, and in teaching your families the ways, ordinances, and laws of the eternal: and in stead of spending the time in dicing, carding, tavern and Alehouse haunting, forbidden by all laws both of God and men, labour to profit yourselves, and to build up those that appertain unto you in sound knowledge, steadfast faith, and blessed obedience, calling every morning and evening at the least, before you take any thing in hand, or go to your sleep, your whole family, and join together in hearty prayer and humble thanksgiving, committing to memory the points and principles of Christian Religion, set forth either in this, or some other such short catechism, striving also every day more and more, to join to knowledge, sanctification, and holiness of life, 
Heb. 12.14.  without the which no man shall see God. For the furtherance of you in which exercises, I haue not only written these few lines in the way of exhortation, but also faithfully translated this little book, containing the sum of christianity, of which thus much I haue to say, that as even at the first fight of it, I was very much provoked to translate it into our own tongue, so before I had fully red it over, the lord moved me, even for your good, I persuade myself, and the testifying of my love towards you, to dedicate whatsoever travail I took in that respect unto you all, which if you shall receive thankfully for me, and use it well, to the increase of sound iudgement in you, and the strengthening of your vnfeyned faith, 
Galat. 5.6.  which worketh by love, I haue that which I greatly wish and pray for. To conclude( for I fear I haue ben somewhat long) I hope I shal not need much to stand upon this, to show what reasons induced me, to take pains at this time, in this point, and to offer the same to you, for besides that in nature and friendship I am straightly tied to many of you, I do also in the right of a towneborn child( as it were) confess myself much bound to you all, in the Lord and for the lord, to do for you, as for myself, whatsoever lieth in me, as a sure seal and testimony whereof, I would haue this little labour of mine to be taken, till it please God to give strength and power to perform some greater work. And yet I must say, that if either the Author thereof, or the work itself, or the manner of delivery of it, may add commendation to it( as I see no reason why they should not, the man being for his notable learning, great godliness, and good behaviour, very rare and excellent, the work also itself propounding christianity so soundly, sufficiently,& shortly, as in all respects, for mine own small reading, I remember not any that goeth beyond it) that then, as it can not want any just praise, so it may stand in steede of a greater gift: for parties that give and receive, ought mutually to consider this, not how much is tendered or taken, but with what mind, and also how good, profitable, and necessary the thing offered is, and so according to the quality, and not according to the quantity, to value and esteem the same: which I do not only pray you all to do, both in respect of my pains and good will towards you, but also to join in earnest and continual prayers to the Lord with me, for yourselves, that both this,& all other means, both outward and inward, which he shall use, for your regeneration and new birth, may be so profitable to yourselves, and blessed in the hands of them that endeavour the same, that you may be sanctified throughout, and that your whole spirit, and soul, and body, 
1. Tess. 5. 2●.  may be kept blameless unto the coming of our lord Iesus Christ, to whom with the Father, and the holy spirit, three persons and one eternal God, be all honour, power, glory, majesty, and dominion for ever& ever,  
Your Worships, and all yours in Christ to do what he can. T.W. the Lords most unworthy seruant. At London, the xxiiij. of this february. 1579.   

To the faithful people of diuers nations, gathered together, and making profession of the Gospel, in the French Church at London: grace, and peace, through our lord Iesus christ.  
THe kingdom of heaven( as saith our Lord Iesus Christ) is like unto a pearl of great price, which when one hath found, he doubteth not to sel al that he hath, to buy the same. And in deed, if the heavenly doctrine be the soul of the Church, let men take away the knowledge of the Gospel, and then it shal be nothing else, but a dead corps or carrion of the world. If it be the incorruptible seed of life, let it haue no word, and then the Church will remain a field altogether barren. Let men once put out this light, and we shal abide in the midst of deadly darkenesses. To be short, if we suffer this sceptre and throne of our God to fall down, the prince of lying will not fail to set up his tyranny in steede thereof. And yet notwithstanding, O how great is the vanity of the world? O howe detestable is mens unthankfulness? God hath now of late set before us this same excellent pearl, yea so that we might buy it without silver but it is for the most part trodden under the feet of hogs and swine. God hath as it were newly breathed this vital spirit into his church, but ignorance doth already lift up itself, to take it by the throat. He hath sent abroad his sowers with abundance of seed, but it is for the most part choked up by the cares of this world. The pure and clear light of truth, 
mat. 13.22.  hath been again kindled and lighted in our presence, but the darkness will not comprehend and conceive the same: 
John. 1.5.  and this same honourable government of the great king, hath been established and set up amongst us, but wee conspire together, and set open a breach unto the enemy, to invade again by little and little the possession therof. And seeing we wonder at this, 
Ioel 2.28. Act. 2.17.  that God having spread abroad his spirit vpon all flesh, even so far as that wee haue seen sons and daughters, young folkes and old, learned and unlearned prophecy, and that we now see the sun turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, should it not teach us care and conscience? Wee read with horror and fear( and that vpon good occasion) of the ignorance, vnthankefulnesse, malice, and obstinate rebellion of the people of the Iewes, and withall we justify the Lord in those judgements, which he hath exercised and executed vpon them. But do we not fear, as the wicked servants do, that we shall be judged by our own mouth and saying? 
Luke. 19.22.  For these things( said S. Paul) are written for our instruction and learning: 
1. Cor. 10.11. Heb. 12.25.  and if those escaped not, which despised him that spake on the earth, we shal be much more punished, if we despise him that speaketh from heaven. And in deed we haue not need onely to fear pestilences, famines, warres, ruins, and desolations, by which it seemeth that God will utterly consume our generation, and offspring, as he did them of the Israelites in the wilderness, but also other plagues, yet much more severe& sharp, which God keepeth shut up in the treasures of his iudgment,& by which he threateneth to punish the contempt of his word. Verily, the prophet Isay reproving the people of his time saith, that they were, as wicked and disorderous children, which profit no whit at all in going to school, 
Isay. 28.10.  although the master give them commandement vpon commandment, and one rule vpon an other. And therfore he declareth unto them, that God will speak unto them, in a stammering tongue, and in a strange language, whereof they shall understand nothing, no no more then if Gods word were unto them a sealed book, 
Isay. 29.11.  or then if they had not eyes to be able to read it. What more? S. Paul addeth that God will give satan the strength of illusion& error, 
2. Thes. 2.11.  to the end that they which would not receive the truth, might obey lying, which is the most fearful vengeance of God, that we can imagine or think off: which also notwithstanding we see swiftly already to set up itself, yea to be exercised and executed in diuers quarters. What then? 
We must be diligent in the hearing, reading, and meditating of Gods word Care of posterity is necessary.  What remaineth for us to do, but this, that we stir up that our first heat, and be attentive in the hearing, reading, and meditating of gods word, that so we may communicate and leave this goodly treasure, as a perpetual inheritance, to our posterity: of which if we haue any care at all, it is in this respect, that we ought chiefy to show it. For God hath appointed us to be faithful keepers of his graces, to the end we may communicate them, as it were from hand to hand, to those that shall come after vs. Thus saith the lord: Shall I hid from Abraham the thing that I do? 
Gene. 18.17.  For I know, that he will command his house, and his children after him to walk in the ways of the Lord. And if fathers in the old time were commanded to cause their children diligently to understand the deliverances of the people out of Egypt& Babylon: 
Exod. 12.26. Psal. 78.5, 6. &c.  how much more ought we to labour, both that the grace of Iesus Christ might not in our time be darkened, and also that our race and stock might after us enjoy so excellent a benefit? And to this end is it, that besides sundry holy exercises practised amongst us, we haue drawn back again into use, and that with some profit( unless I be deceived) that which was observed in the old Church: to wit, 
catechizing old and profitable.  that the children which are nourished and brought up, in the midst of Gods people, should, before they be received to the supper, present themselves to the pastor, in the holy assembly, to the end they might yield a reason of their faith, and so be commended to God by public prayers, and confirmed in the profession of godliness. This is then the duty of fathers and mothers, diligently to travel, 
Parents duty  as well in their own persons, as by the labour and help of schoolmasters, that their children may be instructed and taught. And to the Children, 
Childrens duty.  who are the heires of the promises, and of the covenant, it appertaineth carefully to get and keep this knowledge of salvation, as an assured foundation of their whole life, and all the works they shal do. Wherein, 
A faithful& careful pastor.  to the end I might more and more help you, I haue drawn this form of instruction, applying it in such sort to the use of children, that the Fathers and Masters of households, instructing their little ones therein, may also themselves profit by the same, if it were no other ways but in refreshing their memories, with things which they haue learned before. I haue in the same also quoated the places of scripture, which is the onely rule, both of that which we ought to beleeue, and also of that which we ought to do: to the end that children may in good time learn to beleeue with the heart, that which they shall confess with the mouth,& that they may be according to the doctrine of Saint Peter, prepared to yield to all men a reason of their faith, by the word of God. 
1. Pet. 3.15.  Now I beseech this great God and Father, to enrich us more and more with the treasure of his knowledge, which we may hold closed up and kept fast within the chest of a good conscience, to the end that he which hath revealed the son of perdition, 
2. Thess. 2.8.  may wholly abolish him by the coming of his son, and tread down Satan under our feet, 
Rom. 16.20.  to the glory of his own name. So be it.  
Your humble brother and seruant in the ministery of the Gospel. R. Le Macon.   

¶ A catechism for the Children that prepare themselves to communicate in the holy Supper, yielding therein openly a reason of their faith, according to the order of the French Church at London.  The Minister. 
SEeing we are here assembled& come together, in the name of God, specially for your cause: tell me( ye children) wherefore do ye present yourselves here at this time,& what is it, that ye demand or ask of the Church?  child. 
We require to be allowed and received for the children and household seruants of the Church: and as such to be admitted to the partaking of the Supper of our Lord Iesus Christ.  Minister. 
But by what title or right, do you name yourselves the children of God, seeing that by nature, 
Ephe. 2.3.  we are al the children of wrath?  child. 

By what title we are the children of God. Gene. 22.18. Act. 2.39. 1. Cor. 7.14. 1. Peter. 1.23.  Because that being through Gods mercy, born in the midst of his church, the promises concerning the covenant of salvation appertain unto us, which also haue ben sealed up in us by baptism. moreover he hath sanctified& regenerated us through his word, which is the incorruptible seed of life.  Minister. 
What is it, that this word teacheth us?  child. 

The true knowledge of God. John. 17.3.  To know one onely true God, and him whom he hath sent, Iesus christ.  Minister. 
Wherein standeth this knowledge?  child. 

God the creator and Redeemer.  That we should know him first, the Creator of all the world: and then also a Redeemer, in the person of his son our Lord Iesus Christ.  Minister. 
Rehearse then the sum of thy belief.  child. 
I beleeue in God the Father almighty, &c.  Minister. 
Seeing there is but onely one God, 
Deut. 6.4. Ephe. 4.6.  what moveth thee to rehearse the father, the son, and the holy spirit, which are three?  child. 
Because in that one onely divine essence or being, 
Rom. 11.36. Prou. 8.22.  we haue to consider the Father, as the original and beginning, or the first cause of all things: next afterwards his son, who is his eternal wisdom: And lastly the holy spirit, 
Psal. 104.30.  who is his virtue and power, which is spread abroad over all creatures,& yet notwithstanding continueth always in him.  Minister. 
How will you prove these things?  child. 
This is most certain that there is but one God, 
Ephe. 4.6.  in whose name only we are baptized: and yet notwithstanding baptism is ministered unto us in the name of the father, 
mat. 28.19.  and of the son, and of the holy spirit. moreover at the baptism of Iesus Christ, the Father is heard speaking from heaven: he is called the well-beloved son: 
mat. 3.16.  and the holy ghost appeared in the form of a dove.  Minister. 

Creation. Gene. 1.  Wherefore addest thou, that he is the maker of heaven and Earth?  child. 
Because, that he hath manifested himself unto us by his works, 
Rom. 1.20.  we ought in deed to seek him in the same: for our understanding is not able to comprehend his essence or being. But the world is as it were a glass unto us, 
Heb. 11.3. Psal. 19.1, 2. &c.  wherein we may behold him, so far forth as is expedient and profitable for us to know him.  Minister. 
And wherefore callest thou God, only creator or maker, 
providence.  seeing that to maintain and preserve continually the creatures in their estate, is a matter of greater importance, then to haue once created them?  child. 
Because that hereby there is not only meant, that he once created his works, 
Gene. 1.1.  and then no more cared for them, but in as much, 
job. 5.10. Haggai. 1.11 Exod. 9.18. job. 37. throughout.  as he is the Creator of heaven and earth, it is he alone, who by his goodness, strength, and wisdom, governeth and guideth the whole course of nature: he sendeth rain and drought, hail, tempest, and faire weather, fruitefulnesse and barennesse, 
2. King. 2.21.  health and sickness. To be short, he hath all things at commandement to serve himself therwith, and to use them, as he himself shal think good.  Minister. 
Can you confirm this doctrine by the word of God?  child. 
Amongst other infinite places, the blessings, which God promiseth to them that fear him, and the woes which he pronounceth against the contemners of his lawe, sufficiently declare, 
Leuit. 26.3. &c. Deut. 27.15. &c. Deut. 28.1, &c  that both the one and the other, are governed and ordered by his providence. Beside it is said, 
mat. 10.29.30.  That there falleth not a bide or a hair to the ground, without the will of our heavenly father.  Minister. 
What profit cometh to us, by this doctrine?  child. 
Very much doubtless: For seeing God alone hath created the world, 
Isay. 45.11.12.20.21. Psal. 37.3. Psal. 32 10. Psal. 50.15. Deut. 6.13. mat. 4.10.  and now governeth al things by his providence, thereupon we gather, that we ought to put our trust in him alone, to call vpon him alone, in all our necessities, and to serve him onely, in all fear and reverence.  Minister. 
Concerning Diuelles and wicked men, are they also as much subject unto him?  child. 

mat. 8.31. Psal. 78.49. 2. Chr. 36.22 Isa. 44.28.45.1.  Yea, for albeit he do not govern them by his holy spirit, yet he doth in such sort restrain them, that they are not able to stir, saving so far, as he suffereth them. And indeed through his wisdom he useth them, to execute his will, although that be against their intent and purpose.  Minister. 
Declare this unto me by some example?  child. 
The divell could not do any thing against job, but by leave from God: 
job. 1.7.12. &c. Act. 2.23.4 28.  and Iudas, herod, Pilate, and the Iewes executed the counsel& decree of God, touching our salvation and redemption.  Minister. 
But to what end serveth it us, to know this?  child. 
very much: for it were a miserable matter, if the divels and wicked men were able, to do somewhat against Gods will, and in deed we could never haue quietness in our consciences, because we should be always in their danger. 
In that satan is restrained, Gods power is expressed,& our safety provided for.  But when we know that God reineth them hard, and keepeth them in, in such sort that they are able to do nothing, but by his leave, in that we haue an occasion to stay ourselves, and to rejoice, seeing that God promiseth to be our protector, and to defend vs.  Minister. 

God a Redeemer.  Is it sufficient, that we know God to be the Creator and governor of the world?  child. 
No, and for this cause we said in the second place, that it was necessary also for us, to know him to be the redeemer.  Minister. 
What importeth this word Redeemer?  child. 
It chiefly meaneth, that we are miserable, 
Our misery& bondage. job 8.34. Ephe. 2.2.3, & captives under the bondage of sin, and of the devil, and therfore subject to the wrath and curse of God.  Minister. 
And what is this captivity or bondage?  child. 
Our understanding is so blind, that( as S. Paul saith) 〈◇〉 can not comprehend or perceive the things that are of God: 
1. Cor. 2.14.  and our affections so depraved and corrupted, that it is nothing else but enmity against God, because it is not subject to the lawe of GOD, 
Rom. 8 7.  neither in deed can be.  Minister. 
But are al men generally wrapped up in so great condemnation and misery?  child. 
Yea, as S. Paul witnesseth, who concludeth this matter in these words: 
Rom. 3.9. Gala. 3.22. Heb. 4.15,  We haue before proved, that all, both Iewes and Gentiles, are under sin: notwithstanding wee must always except Iesus Christ onely.  Minister. 
And from whence may this so great corruption come?  child. 
God first created Adam to his own image and likeness, 
Gene. 1.27. Ephe. 4.24. Gene. 3.6. &c.  which specially consisteth in true righteousness and holinesse: but being revolted from God,( who is the fountain of all goodness) there could nothing follow upon it, but sin and wretchedness. So by this man, sin entered into the world, 
Rom. 5.12.  and death by the means of sin.  Minister. 
Is this corruption communicated to the whole nature and offspring of man, 
original sin.  by imitation only, or else by natural propagation, increase and generation?  child. 
david answereth this question, when he saith: 
Psal. 51.5.  behold I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin hath my mother conceived me. 
job. 14.4. John. 3.6.  And in deed, as cruel wolves do naturally beget and bring forth a cruel seed: so man corrupted, begetteth corrupted children.  Minister. 
In deed this wretchedness and spiritual bondage, doth plainly enough appear, and that by the death and afflictions, whereunto we are subject: but how may we know, that God will be unto us a Father and a Redeemer? 
Redemption.   child. 

Gen. 3.15.  By that promise which he hath made, concerning the mediator, even from the beginning, which also he hath renewed from age to age, 
Gene. 1 2 3.  and at the last accomplished, when the fullness of time was come, by sending his son into the world, 
Galat. 4.4. John. 3.16.  to the end that whosoever believeth in him should haue eternal life: and this is the cause, why we confess that we also beleeue in Iesus christ.  Minister. 
What must we hold and beleeue touching his person? 
Christes person.   child. 
That he is very man like unto us in all things, excepting sin, according as Saint paul saith to the romans: 
Heb. 4.15.  That he was made of the seed of david according to the flesh: 
Rom. 1.3.  and to the Galatians: That he was made of a woman, 
Galat. 4.4.  and made under the lawe.  Minister. 
And is that sufficient?  child. 
No: For he is called God over all, 
Rom. 9.5. 1. joh. 5.20.  blessed for ever: and Saint John saith, That he is very God, and eternal life.  Minister. 
What? Are there then two Christes, the one very God, and the other very man?  child. 
even as there is no more but one God, 
1. Cor. 8.6. 1. Tim. 2.5.  so there is no more but one Mediator Iesus christ: in whom the two natures be in such sort united, that he is no more but one onely and the same person: 
Similitude.  even as the soul and the body, be in such sort united in one person, that it is no more but one onely and single man.  Minister: 
But was it needful, that the Mediator should be very God and very man?  child. 

Gene. 22.18.  Yea, and that according to the ordinance& decree of God, that so he might declare and set out his perfect iustice,& his perfect mercy.  Minister. 
How so?  child. 

Gods iustice. Psal. 5.4.  God is such a perfect iustice, that he doth infinitely hate sin, and therefore needs must he power out all his wrath, upon all mankind so corrupted.  Minister. 

Gods mercy.  Wherein is his perfect mercy shewed?  child. 

job. 3.16. Rom. 8.33.  In this, that He hath so much loved the world, that he hath not spared his onely begotten son, but hath delivered him to death for us, to the end that whosoever shal beleeue in him, should not perish, but haue life everlasting. christ is then true man, to the end he might suffer death for vs. But he is also very God, 
Heb. 2.14.  that he might destroy him that had the power of death.  Minister. 
Why sayest thou that he was conceived by the holy Ghost?  child; 
All that is born of flesh is flesh: 
joh. 3.6.  that is to say, corrupted. If then this conception had been ordinary and common, Christ should haue been corrupted,& should himself haue stood in need of a saviour, as well as others. But the working of the holy spirit came between in that behalf, 
mat. 1.18. Luke. 1.35. John. 1.16.  to preserve our Lord from all corruption,& to fulfil him with all holiness.  Minister. 
What meaneth this name Iesus? 
Iesus.   Child. 
The angel answereth this, saying, 
mat. 1.21.  Thou shalt call his name Iesus, for he shall save his people from their sins: it is as much then to say as saviour. And under this word is generally declared his office, which more largely and particularly is expressed, under the name Christ.  Minister. 

Christ.  What meaneth this title or word Christ?  child. 
It signifieth annoynted, and sheweth that the truth of all the old annoyntings is in Iesus Christ.  Minister. 

Christes offices.  How so?  child. 

1. Sam. 16.13. 1. Kin. 19.16. Psal. 133.2.  In old time, kings, Prophetes, and Priests were consecrated into their charges and offices, by outward annoyntment. But Iesus was consecrated, by the annoyntment of the spirit of GOD, which was in all fullness given him, 
Isay. 61.1. Luke. 4.18.  that he might be our King, Prophet, and Priest.  Minister. 

Christs kingdom.  Is Iesus Christ then a King?  Child. 
Yea, to reign in the Church, as it is said in the psalm, 
Psal. 2.6. Luke. 1.32.33.  being set upon the throne of david his father, there to reign for ever. But we must continually remember, 
John. 18.36.  that his kingdom is not of this world.  Minister. 
What manner of kingdom is it then?  Child. 
It is a spiritual kingdom: in as much as that by his word and holy spirit, 
Luke. 17.20.  he withdraweth us from the tyranny of the divell, that he may bring us into the obedience of God, and may make us partakers of righteousness and eternal life. 
Colos. 1.13.   Minister. 
How is he our Prophet? 
Christes prophecy.   child. 
In as much as he was appoynted so to be, by the voice of the Father saying: 
mat. 17.5.  This is my well-beloved son in whom I am well pleased, hear him. God then having at sundry times, and in diuers manners, 
Heb. 1.1.  spoken in old time by his prophets, hath at the last spoken unto us by his son: 
John. 15.15.  by whom he hath declared unto us all his will, and hath put an end to all prophesies and revelations.  Minister. 

Christs priest hood.  And what is his priesthood?  child. 

Heb. 9.14.  It is an office, to present himself before God, to the end he may purchase grace and favour for us: which he hath in dead done: when he offereth himself for a sacrifice to reconcile us to God. 
2. Cor. 5.21.   Minister. 
Is there no other sacrifice, by the means whereof, we may be acceptable before God?  child. 
No as witnesseth the Apostle to the Hebrewes, 
Heb. 10.14.  who affirmeth that by one onely offering, he hath for ever made them perfect, that are sanctified.  Minister. 

Against the mass.  What sayest thou then touching the popish mass, which many men beleeue to be a sacrifice for the forgiveness of the sins, of the living and the dead?  child. 

Psal. 110.4. Heb. cap. 9.& 10.  Seeing that christ is our eternal priest, according to the order of Melchizedech, and he himself also is our onely sacrifice: the mass must needs be a certain sacrilege,& an utter renouncing and forsaking of the death& passion of Iesus christ.  Minister. 
now then to be short, 
The death of Christ.  what hath Iesus Christ done in the world, that he might fulfil his own office,& purchase salvation for us?  child. 
he abased himself, and became obedient unto the death, 
Phil. 2.7, 8.  even the death of the cross: that is to say, he willingly submitted himself, to yield obedience unto God, and to bear all his wrath, and the curse which we had deserved.  Minister. 
And what profit haue wee by the death and suffering of our lord Iesus christ?  child. 
First by his death he hath reconciled us to God his father, 
The fruits of Christs death. Colo. 1.20. Colo. 2.14. Rom. 5.9. & put out the obligation or band of eternal death wherein we are: moreover his blood is the continual washing and purging of our sins and offences. Lastly, if we be the true members of christ, our old man, 
Rom. 6.4.  by the power of his death is crucified, and the body of sin abolished, to the end, 
Rom. 6.22.  that our lusts may no more rule in vs.  Minister. 

Christs resurrection& the fruits therof.  How many ways doth this resurrection profit us?  child. 

Rom. 4.25.  The first fruit we haue by it is, that righteousness is fully purchased for us thereby. 
1. Cor. 15.  The second is, that it is a certain pledge unto us, that we shal once rise up to glorious immortality. The third is, 
Rom. 6.4. Colo. 3.1.  that if we be truly partakers of it, we shall rise up, even in this present life to newness of life, to serve God, and to live holily according to his good pleasure and will.  Minister. 
What followeth?  child. 
That being ascended into heaven, he sitteth at the right hand of the father.  Minister. 

Christs ascension, and the fruits therof.  What doth this his Ascention profit us?  child. 
We haue a double profit thereby. 
joh. 14.2.  For in as much as Iesus christ is entred into heaven in our name, even as he came down from thence for our sake, he giveth us thereby entrance into it, and hath assured us, that the gate thereof is now made open unto us, which before was shut against us for our sins. 
Rom. 8.34.  Secondly he appeareth there, before the face of the father, that he may be our intercessor and advocate.  Minister. 
But what meaneth that sitting at the right hand of the father? 
Gods right hand.   child. 
It is a similitude taken from earthly Princes, who cause such to sit at their right side, as they ordain and appoint lieutenants to govern in their name. By which similitude, we mean nothing else, but that which Iesus Christ himself saith: all power is given unto me, 
mat. 11.27. mat. 28.18.  both in heaven and in earth.  Minister. 
Hitherto then we haue seen, that God declareth himself to be not only a Creator, but also a saviour and Redeemer, in the person of his Christ. 
All shall not be saved.  But doth it follow here vpon, that all men shal be saved?  child. 
No: for the saviour of the world shall say in the last day, 
mat. 25.41.  Depart ye cursed into everlasting fire, prepared for the divell and his Angels.  Minister. 
To whom then is it, that the benefit of Christ appertaineth?  child. 
To those to whom he giveth that true knowledge thereof, of which we haue spoken before.  Minister. 

The Church.  To whom doth he give that?  child. 

2. Thes. 2.4. Ephe. 4.4. 2. Cor. 11.2. Eph. 5.25.26.  To the Church, which for this cause is called the Temple of God, the body, and the spouse of Christ, which he hath washed and sanctified by his blood, that he might make it clean unto himself, without spot or wrinkle.  Minister. 
What callest thou the Church?  child. 
It is the company of faithful people, 
1. Pet. 1.2. 1. Pet. 2.9.  which God hath elected and chosen from all eternity, of his only grace and mercy, to haue life everlasting, in his son our Lord Iesus Christ.  Minister. 
wherefore are they called faithful ones?  child. 
Because that those whom God hath elected and predestinated, 
Faith. Ro. 8.29.30. 2. Pet. 1.1. Eph. 3.17.  he calleth in their time, bestowing vpon them the gift of faith, by which they lay hold of Iesus Christ, and all his treasures.  Minister. 
Must every one particularly, be partaker of this gift of faith, if he will obtain salvation?  child. 
Yea indeed, 
Rom. 1.17. Aba. 2.4. acts. 15.9.  for the just shall live by his faith: and God purgeth and cleanseth the heartes through faith: On the other side, without faith, it is impossible to please God: and again, 
Heb. 11.6. John. 3.18.  he that believeth not in the son of God, is condemned already: And therefore every one of us particularly do confess and say, I beleeue, and not, we beleeue.  Minister. 
And what is faith?  child. 

What faith is  It is a certain knowledge, and steadfast assurance, touching the good will of God towards us, even as in his gospel he promiseth to be our Father and saviour, in and through Iesus christ our Lord.  Minister. 
What graces are they, that God communicateth unto us, by the means of faith?  Child. 

The fruits of faith.  First Iesus Christ himself: next all his riches and treasures: and in this respect the Church is called, the communion or fellowship of saints.  Minister. 

Partaking with christ.  Howe is Iesus Christ communicated unto us?  child. 

Phil. 2.7. Colo. 1.18. 2. Cor. 11.2. John. 15.1, 2. &c.  It is not only because that he hath taken a nature common with us, but also because he is united and joined with us, as the head with the body, the husband with his wife, the branches that are graffed with the roote: 
Rom. 6.5. 1. Cor. 12.12.  and this is the cause, wherefore the Church itself, is called by the name of Christ.  Minister. 
Yea, but how can this uniting or joining together be made, seeing that Iesus Christ is now in heaven, and we are here below vpon earth?  child. 
As it is not necessary, 
An apt similitude.  that the branches should touch the roote, or the members the head, to draw and fetch from them substance and nourishment: so by a more strong reason, can Gods spirit, well join together these things, which are removed and sundered one from an other, in respect of large distance of places.  Minister. 
Tell me now, what gifts are communicated unto us in Iesus christ?  child 
Seeing that God hath given us his son, how should he not with him give unto us all things? 
Rom. 8.32.  Notwithstanding we are first justified in him: and next we are regenerated or sanctified.  Minister. 

justification.  What is this justification of ours?  child. 

Rom. 4.6, 7. Ephe. 1.6.  It is a gift of God, by which he forgiveth us our sins, and accounteth us as acceptable in his sight, for his well-beloved sons sake.  Minister. 
Howe can this be brought to pass, seeing that God is perfectly just, and we are miserable sinners?  child. 

2. Cor. 5.21. Rom. 5.19.  In as much, as he imputeth to us Iesus Christ his sacrifice, for the satisfaction of our sins, and his obedience, in steede of righteousness performed on our partes.  Minister. 
Howe is it then that we are justified through faith? 
Rom. 3.24.25   child. 
To speak fitly, Iesus Christ alone in deed, 
1. Cor. 1.30.  is our onely righteousness. But because that faith is as the hand and instrument, by which we take hold of Christ, withall his riches and treasures: in that respect, is it said to justify vs.  Minister. 
What then do not our good works justify us? 
Good works   child. 
Saint Paul concludeth this question to the romans, saying, 
Rom. 3.9.10. &c.  We haue already proved, that all, both Iewes and Gentiles are under sin: as it is written: 
Psal. 14.1, 3. &c.  there is none righteous, no not one. There is none that understandeth, ther is none that seeketh God. They haue all gone out of the way: they haue been made altogether unprofitable, there is none that doth good, no not one, &c.  Minister. 
But the children of God are in Iesus Christ created, 
Ephe. 2.10.  that they should walk in good works.  child. 
It is true: but they that are most forward, are very far off from perfection: and therfore God hath taught us also to say with david: 
1. Cor. 13.9. &c.  Enter not into iudgement against thy seruant, 
Psal. 143.2.  for in thy sight shall none that liveth be found just: and to ask, forgive us our trespasses. 
mat. 6.12.   Minister. 
But shall not this doctrine make us careless of good works?  child. 

1. joh. 3.5.  Be it far from us: for Christ is come to destroy sin: and therefore those whom God hath justified, he hath also sanctified: And this is the second benefit we receive from Iesus christ, whereof we haue spoken.  Minister. 

Sanctification  What is that our sanctification or regeneration?  child. 

Eph. 3.17.  It is an effect or work of Iesus Christ dwelling in us, by which the corruption of our nature and sin being abolished, we are changed and renewed to a new life. 
2. Cor. 5.17.   Minister. 
Why so?  child. 

Rom. 5.18.  Because that Adam, being estranged and strayed far away from God, we all are dead in him: wherefore we must needs recover a new life in Iesus Christ who is our second Adam, 
1. Cor. 15.45. Colo. 3.10.  and that so the image of God, may again be established in vs.  Minister. 
which be the fruits or effects of this sanctification? 
Good works are fruits of sanctification.   child. 
The good works, by which God is served and honoured?  Minister. 
Howe then must we serve God by good works?  child. 
According to his own commandements, 
commandements mat. 15.9.  and not according to the commandements of men.  Minister: 
Where are they taught us?  child. 
In all the books of the holy scripture, but specially we haue a sum or a bridgement thereof in the ten words or commandments, in the xx. 
Exo. 20.1, 2. &c.  Chapter of Exodus.  Minister. 
How are these ten commandements divided?  child. 
In two Tables, 
Exo. 34.1. &c. Deu. 10.1. &c.  the first whereof containeth four commandments, and the second six, and so in the whole there are ten.  Minister. 
What is the sum of the first table?  child. 

mat. 22.37.  Thou shalt love the lord thy God with all thine heart, with all thy soul, with al thy strength, with all thy mind.  Minister. 
And what is the sum of the second?  child. 

mat. 22.39.  Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.  Minister. 
Is there nothing contained in these commandments, but that which is in plain terms declared in the same?  child. 

Rules for the expounding of the law.  Wee haue three rules to consider and mark.  Minister. 
Which be they.  child. 
1 The first, that under one kind is comprehended all of that sort.  Minister. 
give me a familiar and plain example thereof.  child. 
In the eight commandement, God doth not onely forbid theft, but all means what so ever, whereby we injury our neighbour, in his goods or substance.  Minister. 
Tell the second rule.  child. 
God is a spiritual lawgiver, and therfore that which is evil to do before men, is evil to think in his presence.  Minister. 
give an example thereof?  child. 
He that hath a will and desire, to rob his neighbour, or to steal from him, although he perform or execute not the same, is guilty of theft before God.  Minister. 
Which is the third rule?  child. 
3 That it is not enough to avoid evil, but also that wee must do good, 
Psal. 37.27.  which is contrary to evil: also wee must give unto every one that which appertaineth unto them, 
Rom. 13.7.  and aid our neighbours with our goods, as wee would be glad to haue it done to ourselves.  Minister. 

The first commandement.  Rehearse the first commandment?  child. 

Mark. 12.29. Exod. 20.2. Deut. 5.6.  hear Israel, I am the Lord thy God which haue brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. Thou shalt haue no other Gods before me.  Minister. 
What is the end of this commandement?  child. 

Deut. 6.4. mat. 4.10.  hear O Israel, the Lord our God, he alone is God,  
And again, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him onely shalt thou serve.  Minister. 

The second.  Rehearse the second.  child. 

Exo. 20.4.5.6 Deu. 5.8.9.10.  Thou shalt make thee no graven Image, neither any likeness of things that are in heaven above, neither that are in the earth beneath, nor that are in the waters under the Earth. Thou shalt not bow down to them, neither serve them, for I am the lord thy God, a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers vpon the children, vpon the third generation,& vpon the fourth of them that hate me: and showing mercy unto thousands to them that love me, and keep my commandements.  Minister. 
Tell me shortly what it meaneth.  child. 
God is a spirit, 
John. 4.24.  and therefore he will be served in spirit and truth. 
mat. 15.9. 1. Cor. 10.14. 1. joh. 5.21.  They honour me in vain, teaching for doctrine the commandements of men. Flee from idolatry. little children keep yourselves from Idols.  Minister. 
Let us come to the third. 
The third.   child. 
Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain: 
Exo. 20.7. Deut. 5.11.  for the lord will not hold him guiltless, that taketh his name in vain.  Minister. 
What meaneth this commandement?  child. 
That we should speak of God, and his works, in all reverence, and so as he alone might be glorified:  

Leuit. 24, 15, 16  The man that shall curse his God, shall bear his sin, and he that blasphemeth the name of the Lord, shal be put to death: all the congregation shall ston him: whether he be born in the land, or whether he be a stranger, when he shall blaspheme the name of the lord, he shall die.  

Isay. 65.16.  He that shall bless himself, shal bless himself in the Lord: and he that shal swear in the earth, shal swear by the true God.  

Iere. 5.7.  Thy children haue forsaken me, and swear by them, which are no gods.  

Leuit. 19.12.  Ye shall not swear by my name falsely: neither shalt thou defile the name of thy God, I am thy Lord. And touching superfluous and vain oaths it is said: 
mat. 5.3 4. Iam. 5.12.  Thou shalt not swear at all, neither by the heaven, nor by the earth, &c.  
Concerning reverent usage of Gods name, 
Psal. 50.15.  it is said: Call vpon me in the day of trouble, and I will help thee, and then thou shalt glorify me.  

mat. 10.32.  whosoever shal confess me before men, him will I confess also, before my father which is in heaven.  
whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, 
Luke. 9.26.  of him shall the son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his glory.  Minister. 
Let us go further.  child. 
The fourth commandement is, 
The fourth Exod. 20.8.9. &c. Deut. 5.12.13. &c.  Remember the sabbath day to keep it holy, six dayes shalt thou labour and do all thy works, but the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God, in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy man seruant, nor thy maid, nor thy beast, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates, for in six dayes the lord made the heaven, and the Earth, the Sea, and all that in them is, and restend the seventh day, therfore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.  Minister. 
What is the end of this Commandement?  child. 
To the end we might avoid all corruptions, and be maintained in all fear and reverence of God, he hath established this order in the Church, that one day particularly in the week, should be dedicated to him, in the which we should exercise ourselves in the hearing and meditatipn of Gods word, and his works.  

acts. 15.21.  Moses of old time had in every city them that preached him, seeing he is red in the synagogues every sabbath day.  

Isay. 58.13.  If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy will on my holy day, and call the sabbath a delight, to sanctify it as glorious unto the Lord, and that thou glorify him, not doing thine own ways, nor seeking thine own will, nor using thine own words, then shalt thou rejoice, and delight in the lord, &c.  Minister. 

The fifth.  Let us come now to the second table, and to the fifth Commandement.  child. 

Exo. 20.12. Deu. 5.16.  Honour thy Father and thy Mother, that thy dayes may be prolonged upon the land, which the Lord thy God giveth thee.  Minister. 
What doth it summarily contain?  child. 
under the words Father and Mother, he comprehendeth al superiors, to whom he will haue us to yield all honour and obedience.  
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, 
Ephe. 6.1.  for that is right. Honour thy Father& thy Mother( which is the first Commandement with promise) that it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest live long on earth.  
He that nurseth his Father or his mother shal die the death. 
Exod. 21.17. Leuit. 20.9.   
If any man haue a son, 
Deut. 21.18. &c.  that is stubborn and rebellious, which will not harken unto the voice of his father, nor the voice of his mother:& they haue chastened him,& he would not obey them: then shall his father and his mother take him, and shall bring him unto the Elders of the city, and shall say: This our son is stubborn and disobedient, and he will not obey our admonition: he is a riotour, a glutton, and a drunkard. Then all the Elders of the city shall ston him with stones, and he shall die, and so shalt thou take away evil from among you, to the end that all Israel may hear it and fear.  

Prou. 30.17.  The eye that mocketh his Father, and despiseth the instruction of his mother, let the ravens of the flock pluck it out, and the young eagles eat it.  

Rom. 13.1.2. &c.  Let every soul be subject to the higher powers: for there is no power but of God,& the powers that be, are ordained of GOD. whosoever therfore resisteth power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist it, shall receive to themselves condemnation.  

1. Tim. 5.17.  The Elders that rule well are worthy of double honour, specially they which labour in the word and doctrine.  

Heb. 13.17.  Obey them that are your guiders,& submit yourselves to them, for they watch for your souls, as they that must give accounts thereof, to the end that that which they do, they may do joyfully, and not with grief, for that shal be unprofitable for you.  Minister. 

The sixte.  What followeth?  child. 
The sixth commandement, wherein it is said, 
Exod. 20.13. Deut. 5.17.  Thou shalt not kill.  Minister. 
What is the end of this commandement?  child. 
That our neighbours life should be dearly esteemed of us, and therefore we must not onely not do it hurt, but also preserve the same with al the power we haue.  
Who so sheddeth mans blood, 
Gene. 9.6.  by man shal his blood be  shed again, for God hath made man in his own image.  
whosoever is angry with his brother unadvisedly, or without cause, 
mat. 5.22.  shall be culpable of iudgement:& whosoever saith unto his brother, Raca, shalbe worthy to be punished by the council, and whosoever shall say unto him, fool, shal be worthy to be punished with hell fire.  
Ye haue heard that this hath been said, 
mat. 5.43.44  Thou shalt love thy neighbour,& hate thine enemy: but I say unto you love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which hurt and persecute you.  
He that hateth his brother, is a mansleyer. 
1. joh. 3.15.   Minister. 
Rehearse the seventh commandment. 
The seventh.   child. 

〈◇〉. 20.14. Deut. 5.18.  Thou shalt not committe adultery.  Minister. 
What doth this commandment comprehend?  child. 
God is holy and pure, forbidding al filthiness and intemperancy of the flesh, and will haue our life ruled in all chastity and pureness.  

Leuit. 11.44.192. Deut. 23.17.  There shal be no whore of the daughters of Israel, neither shall there be a whore keeper of the sons of Israel.  

Heb. 13.4.  Marriage is honourable among all, and the bed undefiled, but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.  

Prou. 6.26. &c.  For the whorish woman, a man is brought to a morsel of bread: and a woman will hunt for the precious life of a man.  
Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burnt? Or can a man go vpon burning coals, and his feet not be burnt? So he that goeth into his neighbours wife, shall not be innocent, whosoever toucheth her.  

1. Cor. 6 9.  See 1. Cor. 6. ver. 13, 14, 15. &c. Whoremongers and adulterers shall not inherit the kingdom of God.  
This is the will of God, 
1. Thes. 4.3. &c.  even your sanctification,& that ye should abstain from fornication: that every one of you should know, howe to possess his vessel in holiness and honour:& not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God: for God hath not called us to vncleannes, but to holinesse.  
Be not drunken with wine, 
Ephe. 5.18.  wherein is excess, but be filled with the holy spirit.  
Wine is a mocker, 
Prou. 20.1.  and strong drink is raging,& whosoever delighteth therein is not wise.  
keep not company with the wine bibbers, 
Prou. 23 20.  nor with the devourers of flesh, for the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty, and he that sleepeth over much shal be clothed with rags.  
To whom are woes? to whom is sorrow? 
Prou. 23.29.  to whom is strife? to whom is murmuring? to whom are wounds without cause? and to whom is the reddnes of the eyes? even to them that tarry long at the wine, and to them that go and seek mixed wine.  Minister. 
Say now the eight commandement? 
The eight.   child. 
Thou shalt not steal. 
Exod. 20.15. Deut. 5.19.   
What meaneth this commandement?  child. 

Rom. 12.3. &c. 1. Cor. 12.11.  Because God distributeth riches and substance, to whom pleaseth him,& according as seemeth good unto himself, we ought not to injury any man in his goods or substance, after what sort soever it be, but we ought to yield to every man, 
Rom. 13.7.  that which appertaineth unto him.  

Leuit. 19.13.  Thou shalt not do thy neighbour wrong, neither rob him.  
The workemans hire shal not abide with thee until the morning.  

Leuit. 19.11.  Ye shall not steal, neither deal falsely, nor deny that which ye owe.  

Prou. 29.24.  He that is partner with a thief, hateth his own soul.  

Prou. 20.17.  The bread of deceit is sweet to a man, but afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel.  

Prou. 20.21.  An heritage hastily gotten at the beginning, shall not be blessed in the end therof.  

Prou. 12.27.  The disceitful man roasteth not that he took in hunting, but that that the diligent man hath, is precious.  

Prou. 28.8.  He that increaseth his riches by vserie and interest, gathereth them for him that will give alms thereof to the poor.  
godliness with contentedness is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, 
1. Tim. 6. ●. 7. &c.  and certain it is, that we can carry nothing out. Therefore when we haue food and raiment let us therwith be contented. For they that will be rich fall into tentation& snares,& into many foolish& noisome lusts, which drown men in perdition and destruction. For the desire of money is the roote of all evil, which while some lusted after, they erred from the faith. &c.  
Make you friends, 
Luke. 16.9.  with the riches of iniquity, that when ye shall want, they may receive you into everlasting habitations.  
I was an hungered, and ye gave me meate. 
mat. 25.35.  I was thirsty, &c.  Minister. 
go on further. 
The ninth.   child. 
Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. 
Exod. 20.16. Deut. 5.20.   Minister. 
What is the end of this commandment?  child. 

Rom. 3.4.  God, who is truth itself, detesteth& forbiddeth us all forswearings, lies, slanders and backebitings, by which the honour, estimation, and good name of our neighbour, is any manner of way, whatsoever it be, wounded, or impaired.  

Exod. 23.1.  Thou shalt not receive a false tale, neither shalt thou put thy hand with the wicked to be a false witness.  

Leuit. 19.16.  Thou shalt not walk about as a backbiter amongst the people: Thou shalt not stand up against the blood of thy neighbour.  

Deut. 19.16. &c.  When a false witness shal rise up against any man, to testify an evil thing against him, then both the men which strive together, shal appear before the Lord in the presence of the priestes and iudges. And the iudges shall make diligent inquisition: and if it be known, that that false witness, hath testified falsely against his brother, thou shalt do unto him, even as he had thought to do to his brother, and so thou shalt take away evil forth of the midst of thee.  

Prou. 26.21.  As the coal maketh burning coals, and as wood serveth to make a fire: so the contentious man is apt to kindle strife.  
The devil is a liar, and a father of lies. 
John. 8.44. Ephe. 4.25.   
Cast off lying and speak every man the truth with his neighbour.  Minister. 
There remaineth yet the tenth and last commandement. 
The tenth.   child 
Thou shalt not covet thy neighbours house, 
Exod. 20.17. Deut. 5.21.  neither shalt thou covet thy neighbours wife, nor his manseruant, nor his maid, nor his ox, nor his ass, neither any thing that is thy neighbours.  Minister. 
To what end is this commandement given?  child. 
God would haue our whole soul filled with the affection of love: and therfore he condemneth all desires, lusts,& couetings, that tend to the hurt of our neighbour, although there be not a full consent given thereto.  
Who is he that knoweth his faults? 
Psal. 19 12.   
Cleanse me from secret sins.  
I had not known, what lust is, 
Rom. 7.7.  except the lawe had said: thou shalt not lust.  
They that are Christs, 
Galat. 5.24.  haue crucified the flesh, with their affections and lusts.  Minister. 

The use of the lawe.  What is the use of the lawe?  child. 

Rom. 4.15. Rom. 7.7.  To the wicked, it serveth for a very great condemnation, because it manifesteth& layeth open sin, and by reason of the corruption of their nature, doth continually more and more increase it.  Minister. 
And what doth it to the godly?  child. 
After that it hath humbled them, by the knowledge and sight of their sins, it leadeth them, 
Galat. 3.24.  as it were a schoolmaster unto Iesus Christ: and afterwards being regenerated by the holy spirit, it serveth them for a rule and guide, to walk in the obedience of God. 
Isay. 30.21.   Minister. 
How so?  child. 
This is not onely, because he maketh us to understand the same, 
2. Cor. 3.3. Heb. 8.10.  but also because he doth imprint, and ingraue or writ the same in our harts by his spirit.  Minister. 
We are not able then of ourselves, to yield obedience thereto?  child. 
No in deed, 
2. Cor. 3.5. Phi. 2.13.  considering the corruption of our nature, whereof we haue spoken.  Minister. 
What must we then do?  child. 
invocation of Gods name or prayer, 
invocation of Gods name. Rom. 10.13.14  is one of the principal effects of faith, by means whereof it pleaseth God, to bestow upon us his goodness, to the end that we should yield him praise and thankes therfore. 
Psal. 50.15.   Minister. 
And what is prayer?  child. 
It is a familiar speech, or talking with God, 
What prayer is.  in which with earnest affection we demand of him( in all humbleness and reverence, and yet notwithstanding with boldness and trust) that which is profitable, 
Rom. 5.2.  for the advancement of his glory, and our salvation.  Minister. 
May we pray to God, in a language that we understand not?  child. 

1. Cor. 14.14. &c.  Such prayers are nothing else, but mere mockeries of God, for how shall we ask with zeal and boldness, the thing we understand not?  Minister. 
Is it not lawful to call vpon any other besides God?  child. 

Psal. 50.15.  invocation or prayer is one of the principal partes of Gods honour and service: and we know, that he will not give his glory to an other. 
Isay. 42.8.   Minister. 
But seeing that of ourselves, we are unworthy to present ourselves, before God, howe may we be assured that we shall be heard?  child. 

John. 16.23. &c. 1. John. 2.1.  In the name of our Lord Iesus christ, who is our advocate and intercessor before God.  Minister. 
Haue we no other intercessor between God and us, but Iesus christ?  child. 
No, as witnesseth Saint John. 
1. John. 2.1.2. 1. Tim. 2.5.  If any man sin( saith he) we haue an advocate with the father, Iesus christ the just, and he is the reconciliation for our sins.  Minister. 
Which is the rule, rightly to pray unto God?  child. 
Iesus Christ himself hath taught us to say, O our Father which art in heaven, &c. 
mat. 6.9. &c.   Minister. 
What is that which is contained in this prayer?  child. 
The preface is comprehended in these words, O our father which art in heaven, and teacheth us that reverence& boldness, whereof we haue spoken before, whereunto also tendeth the conclusion, which is set at the end.  Minister. 
And what say you concerning the rest?  child. 
It containeth six petitions: of which the three former, do simply respect Gods glory: the other three, that which is expedient for us, as well for the body as the soul.  Minister. 
Declare that more fully.  child. 
We pray, that God in all his works may be acknowledged, 
1. Tim. 1.17. Psal. 103.8.  so excellent as he is, that is, perfectly wise, just and merciful, that we may be vnfeignedly subject to the obedience of his will, and that his kingdom may come to the full& perfect accomplishment thereof, all things that gainestand the same, being abolished.  Minister. 
And what pray wee for in the other parte?  child. 
That he, giuing us all things necessary for this present life, would also pardon us of our sins, and sanctify us by his spirit, that we might withstand and overcome all temptations.  Minister. 
In praying after this sort, haue we assurance that God will hear us?  child. 
Yea, for Iesus Christ saith: Verily, 
John. 13.23.  verily, I say unto you: All the things that ye shall ask the father in my name, he will give them you.  Minister. 
Then we haue no need of any other advocates to God for us?  child. 
Gods commandment his, 
mat. 7.7. Act. 1.24. 1. Tim. 2.5. 1. joh. 2.1.2.  promise that we shall be heard, the example of all Gods saints, and the office of Iesus Christ, give us no other direction or order: as also he alone is just and righteous, and the onely ransom or price of our sin.  Minister. 
But doth not God without our prayers, know that which we haue need of?  child. 
Yes, 
Isay. 55.1.2. &c.  and very oftentimes he giveth us his graces, before that ever we did think vpon them: but it is for our profit and good, that he requireth this exercise of prayers.  Minister. 
How so?  Child. 
Because we are thereby kept in the reverence and awe of God, when wee confess that all blessing and cursing proceedeth from his hand: besides we better know his love towards us, when he giveth that to our prayers, which proceedeth from his onely goodness. Lastly we are thereby provoked, not to be unthankful towards him, loving him with all our heart, and yielding confession of the same unto him.  Minister. 
What is this confession or acknowledgement?  child. 

Thankes giuing.  That we should yield him thankes and praise, for all the goodness that we receive at his hand.  Minister. 
Doth this sacrifice of praise belong unto him alone?  child. 
Yea, even as well as invocation or prayer: according to that which is said: call vpon me in the day of trouble, 
Psal. 50.15.  so will I deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.  Minister. 
But by what means, are our praises and thankesgiuinges acceptable in his sight?  child. 
When by Iesus christ wee offer unto him, the sacrifice of praise, 
Heb. 13.15.  which is the fruits of the lips, confessing his name.  Minister. 
We haue seen already howe God declareth himself unto us, 
The sum of all aforesaid.  to be a creator and redeemer: we haue shewed also what faith is, by the means whereof we take hold of Christ, and in him our justification and regeneration: 
By what means Iesus Christ with the riches is communicated unto vs. 1. Pet. 1.2.  and lastly we haue declared that these gifts are bestowed vpon us, through Gods pure and onely liberality. Let us now speak of the means by which God bringeth us to the possession of his graces.  Child. 
Saint Peter answereth that, when he saith, 
The holy spirit.  That we are the elected and beloved of God the father, unto sanctification of the spirit, through the obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Iesus Christ. It is then the holy spirit that maketh us partakers of Iesus Christ, and all his graces.  Minister. 
But doth not God use outward means to give us faith, and to keep us in his fear?  child. 

Two distinct ministries.  He hath ordained two sorts or kindes of ministries.  Minister. 
Which are they?  child. 

Rom. 13.1. &c. Rom. 12.6. &c.  The one is politic, appertaining to the common wealth:& the other is ecclesiastical, belonging to the Church.  Minister. 

The magistrate.  Doth the office of magistrates tend to that end?  child; 

1. Tim. 2.2.  S. Paul saith, that We ought to pray for them, that under them we may lead a peaceable, and a quiet life, in all godliness and honesty.  Minister. 

The ecclesiastical ministery.  And what say you concerning the ecclesiastical ministery?  child. 

〈◇〉 2.  It is appointed onely to teach us, and to provoke us forward to goodness, 
2. Tim. 4.2. mat. 28.19. 1. Cor. 11.24. &c.  both by the reading and preaching of the word, and also by the use of the Sacramentes.  Minister. 
What callest thou the word of God? 
Gods word.   child. 
The holy scripture, which containeth the old and new Testament.  Minister. 
Who is the author of that doctrine?  child. 
God himself, 
2. Tim. 3.16.  but he hath revealed the same unto us, and caused it to be written in certain books, by his servants, 
2. Pet. 1.21.  the prophets and Apostles, as the instruments of his spirit, and his authentical witnesses, and of sufficient authority and credite.  Minister. 
What is then our duty in this behalf?  child. 
To read it, and hear it, 
Ichos. 1.8. Psal. 1.2. Luke. 2.51.  with reverence and prayers, and diligently to meditate on it, to imprint it also in our understanding, and to lay it up in our harts.  Minister. 
Is this word sufficient enough to teach us,& to strengthen us in the faith?  Child. 
In as much as it is the infallible truth of God, it containeth in itself all perfection: And by reason of our weakness God hath further added other aids, to wit, the sacraments.  Minister. 
And what is a sacrament?  child. 
It is a testimony that God himself hath ordained, 
Sacraments& what they are.  which by a visible sign, representeth unto us the invisible grace of God,& sealeth in our heartes the promises of God:& by which we also testify our piety towards him, and our charity towards our neighbours.  Minister. 
What must we now consider or behold in the sacramentes?  Child. 

Three things to be regarded in the sacramentes onely.  Three things principally: the outward and visible sign: the thing thereby signified: and the proportion or agreement, which is between the one& the other.  Minister. 
Howe many sacraments are there in the Christian Church?  child. 
Two: to wit, baptism, 
Two sacramentes.  and the holy Supper.  Minister. 
Which is the sign in baptism? 
baptism.   child. 
The water. 
Act. 8.36.   Minister. 
And which is the thing signified?  child. 
The blood of Iesus Christ, 
mat. 26.28.  shed for our sins.  Minister. 
What proportion or agreement is there between the water of baptism, and the blood of Iesus Christ?  child. 
As water hath a propriety to wash and to drown, so by the blood and death of Christ, 
1. John. 1.7. Rom. 6.6.  our sins are blotted out and purged, and our old man crucified, and as it were drowned, that we might walk in newness of life.  Minister. 

The supper.  And which be the outward signs in the Supper?  child. 
The bread and Wine.  Minister. 
What is it, that the Bread and the wine represent unto us?  child. 
The body& the blood of Iesus Christ.  Minister. 
How so?  child. 
As bread and wine haue a property, to nourish and maintain us in this present life: 
John. 6.53.54.  so by the partaking of the body& blood of Christ, our souls are nourished in the hope of everlasting life.  Minister. 
Then we are not partakers onely of the bread and wine.  child. 

mat. 26.26.28.  No: for Iesus Christ hath said: This is my body: this is my blood.  Minister. 
Is not that then, which is given us, any more bread and wine?  child. 
It is bread and wine naturally: but yet the body and the blood of Christ sacramentally.  Minister. 
How can that be?  child. 
The bread and the wine keep always their first nature: but in as much as they are signs and seals, they haue the name of the thing, which they signify& seal.  Minister. 
Are Christes body and blood, enclosed in the bread and wine?  Child. 
No: for he is ascended into heaven, 
Act. 3.21.  where he must be, until the time of the restoring of all things.  Minister. 
Yea, 
mat. 28.20.  but he hath said that he will be with us, even unto the end of the world.  child. 
That is true, according to his divine nature and power, and the presence of his holy spirit, but not other ways.  Minister. 
How can we go up even unto heaven, where Iesus Christ is?  child. 
We go up into heaven by faith, and he cometh down to us by his spirit, which can easily join together things that be sundered.  Minister: 

Examination before the supper.  How must we prepare ourselves, that we may rightly communicate the Supper?  child. 

1. Cor. 11.28.  We must examine ourselves.  Minister. 
Wherein consisteth this examination or trial?  child. 
In this, that we examine ourselves, whether we haue true faith& right repentance. 
2. Cor. 13.5.   Minister. 
What is the right use of the Supper?  child. 

1. Cor. 11.26.  That we should meditate, and show forth, and that with praises, the lords death: that in full assurance, we should seek for in him, life and salvation: and that withdrawing ourselves, 
1. Cor. 10.14.21. 1. Cor. 6.14. &c.  from all vnbeleeuers, idolaters and profane persons, we should exercise and spend our whole life, in true godliness and love, with our neighbours.  Minister. 
Ought the use of the Supper, to be continual& perpetual in the Church?  child. 
Yea: 
1. Cor. 11.25.26.  for having need to profit in this spiritual life, God hath given us these aids and helps, to bring us forward therein, until such time as he hath gathered us together, into his heavenly kingdom.  Minister. 
To him therefore, with the son and the holy spirit, be all honour and glory for ever and ever. So be it.  
FINIS.   

To the Reader.  
BEcause christianity doth specially consist in practise, and many excuse their faults under the colour of ignorance, it hath been thought meet& convenient, to add to the former instruction( which shooteth at this mark, to give us the knowledge of salvation) this advertisement following, for the rule of conscience: to the end that children may understand, and others approaching to the Supper, may remember that, which they themselves promise,& which God requireth of them, by that same holy action: to wit, that christ may live in us, and we in him, to the glory of his name. So be it.   

¶ AN ADVERtisement, which we are accustomend to give, the Saturday, going before the Supper, at the prayers, to the end, that every one may prepare himself as he ought to the worthy communicating and partaking thereof.  
BEcause the holy Supper is a spiritual banquet, which our lord Iesus christ hath instituted, for those that are Gods children,& regenerated by his holy spirit, it behoveth us( that we may examine ourselves according to S. Pauls counsel) diligently to consider, both our faults past, 
1. Cor. 11.28. Examination of ourselves.  that so we may haue recourse to Gods mercy,& also what is the duty of Christians, that we may answer that holy vocation, whereunto we are called, walking honestly, and with edification and profit, in the midst of Gods Church.  
To this end, we, according to our charge and duty, admonish, and that in Gods name, all faithful people, to behave themselves, as is meet and seemly, for the true children of God,& the both in the public assemblies,& also in their domestical& particular conversation.  
First then concerning public assemblies, for as much as the church is the house of God, wherein all things ought to be governed comely and in good order, 
public assemblies. 1. Tim. 3.15. 1. Cor. 14.40 Ephe. 2.19.  it behoveth us as children and household servants of the same Church, to submit ourselves to the ministery and discipline established therein, for common edification and profit.  

Hearing of the word. Heb. 1.8.  And because that chiefly the preaching of the Gospel is requisite, as being the sceptre of Gods kingdom, let us take good heed, that we be diligent hearers of the word, not only vpon the sabbath dayes( which should be bestowed in all holy exercises of godliness, and not in idleness and lewse life) but also on other dayes appointed in the week, to receive instruction in, and to profit in godliness and Christian religion: to the end that we may be always ready to yield a reason of our faith, 
1. Pet. 3.15.  and to direct them, which stray out of the lords ways.  
And because the Pastors do but plant and water, 
Prayers. 1. Cor. 3.6.  but it is Gods onely that giveth the increase, it behoveth us diligently to be present at, and with al our heart to be partakers of the public prayers, that are made in the church: to the end, that with our understanding we may conceive his word, and that it may fructify in our harts, as being the incorruptible seed of life.  
And as extraordinary afflictions, 
1. Pete. 1.23. Prayers extraordinary. 1. Pet. 5.6.  do in deed require, that we being humbled under the mighty hand of God, should haue recourse unto him extraordinarily, by prayers and supplications, both for ourselves, and for others: so let us be diligent at those prayers, which are appointed,& made amongst us, for the afflictions& miseries of the Church,& for the peace& tranquillity of this kingdom.  
Now to the word and to the prayers of the church, 
baptism.  there are annexed the sacraments: and first baptism, by which God hath given unto us this testimony, that our Children are consecrated unto him, 
mat. 19.14. 1. Cor. 7.14.  from their young and tender yeares. Wherefore it appertaineth to parentes, with all their affection and hart to offer them to him: and it belongeth to the whole Church, to commend them unto him in their prayers.  
But specially it is needful, to take such sureties& witnesses as are of the fellowship of the Church, living well, understanding also that which they promise, and having a will to perform the same: to the end that the children may be nourished, brought up, and instructed in the fear of the Lord, being provoked also thereunto, by the names that shall be given them. For this cause, let not parents present or offer their children to baptism, without they haue spoken to their Elders, and taken a little bill or note of remembrance at their hand: as well that thereby we may haue knowledge of the parents and witnesses, as to keep a register thereof.  

The Supper.  And as concerning the holy Supper, to the end that we may not come unworthily to it, we must remember the corrections, the God in former time laid on the Corinthians, 
1. Cor. 11.30.  for the profanation& abuse therof:& therfore let us not come to it, but with reverence& true repentance, renouncing al idolatries, superstitions& wickednesses whatsoever: meditating vpon the death and passion of Iesus christ, and yielding him thankes for that incomparable benefit, by which he communicateth himself unto us, with all his riches and treasures: and that so much the rather, 
1. Cor. 11.27  because that He that eateth this bread, and drinketh this cup unworthily, is guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. moreover, in our meetings, let us remember to practise Christian charity towards the poor. 
Philip. 4.18. Heb. 13.16. Iam. 2.16. 1. John. 3.17.  For alms are in deed true sacrifices, acceptable to God, and a good testimony of our godliness and love towards him.  
Marriage 
Marriage.  also, which is Gods holy ordinance, ought to be practised and performed in the Church, with all honesty& reverence, as a matter of very great importance& weight: 
Exod. 20.12 Gene. 34.4.  wherefore children ought in this behalf to yield such duty and obedience to their Fathers& Mothers, that they take vpon them nothing at all in this respect without their parentes aduise and counsel. And moreover, to the end, that promises may not be made secretly and closely, 
privy contracts condemned.  and without invocation or prayer of God, every one is admonished to call his Elder or some other, having charge in the church that they may receive,& that with prayers the aforesaid promises. And also the none be secretly or closely married, neither out of the Church wherein they communicate, except they advertise the consistory,& take witness of the publishing of the bands of marriage. 
2. Cor. 6.14.  That none unadvisedly tie himself in unequal marriages, whereupon ensue sundry evil inconveniences in households: much less that any of the faithful defile holy marriage, by unlawful lyinges together, and through hast and headlongnesse, cause the honour of holy marriage to decay.  

honesty to be observed in the Churches. Luke 4.20.  That none stand gazing, so long as the Church assemblies endure, either without or within, to talk, or to walk vnreuerently, but that every one be attentive, to the holy exercises of godliness, which being once ended, let every one withdraw himself to his own house, without staying abroad without the Church, as diverse do, and that with offence and hindrance, even of those of this country, which go and come to and fro about their business.  
And because that in respect wee are weak, 
The discipline of the Church.  and subject to go out of the right way, we haue need both of public, and particular or private admonitions, let every one quietly and willingly submit himself to all advertisements and reproofs, that shal be made, according to the word of God, as necessary and wholesome medicines, to draw us back from our former faults,& to cause us to yield obedience unto God: not sticking at this( if we haue by our wicked life, given some public offence to the Church) to make the very Angels, 
Luke. 15.7. & faithful people rejoice at our conversion and conversation, and that so far forth as shall be needful) by our public and open repentance.  
Now as order and honesty ought to be observed in the Church, 
Order in families.  so we should be careful well to rule& govern our households, which ought to be as it were little Churches. 
1. Cor. 14. ●● Gene. 18. 1● 1. Cor. 16. ●●  Wherefore the husband first, and afterwards the wife, ought to procure, that God may be worshipped in their households, without whose blessing, it is impossible for them to prosper. And therefore every one is bound to establish an order in his house, that prayers may be said morning and evening, 
Psal. 119.164.  before and after meate, and at other houres and times, as necessity shal require, and occasion be offered, to maintain also and use often reading of Gods word, 
Ephe. 5.19.  and singing of psalms: and to cause their children and servants to be instructed in the fear of God, as well particularly by their schoolmasters, as openly& generally at the catechisings, according to the order of the Church: to the end that we suffer not our posterity, to be deprived of the singular benefit of the knowledge of God, which he hath communicated and bestowed vpon vs. 
Psal. 78.4, 6.   

husbands. Ephe. 5.25.  moreover, You husbands love your wives, as Iesus Christ loved his Church, and make yourselves, good examples of life unto your households. 
wives. Eph. 5.22. &c.  Also, you wives be subject unto your husbands, as unto your head, keeping yourselves in modesty,& flying al vain babbling and backbytinges. Ye fathers& mothers haue care over your children, 
Parentes. Eph. 6.4.  to nourish and bring them up in the fear of the Lord. 
Children. Eph. 6.1. &c. Masters. Ephe. 6.9.  Ye children obey your Fathers& Mothers in all honour and reverence. Ye Masters yield that which is right and equal unto your servants, knowing also that ye haue a Master in heaven. 
servants. Colo. 3.22.23.  And ye seruants obey your Masters and Mistresses in the lord, in all things: And whatsoever ye do, do it hearty, as serving the lord, and not men.  
Let every man travel in the vocation whereunto he is called, that not only he may be able to maintain his family, but also to use charity towards the poor, and to uphold the ministery and state of the Church, as we are bound thereto: 
idleness must be avoided. 2. Thess. 3.11.12. 1. Tim. 5.8. 1. Cor. 16.2. Good example.  whereunto men must so much the more earnestly take heed, by how much idleness is one chief cause amongst others, of an infinite number of evils.  
Our housholds being well ruled, we must also haue a good eye to our common conversation abroad: to the end that our light may shine before men, 
Mat. 5.16.  that they may glorify our heavenly father. In which respects we must take heed, 
Psal. 37.27.  first to fly from and abhor evil, and next to do good, according to the advertisement and counsel of the Scripture. 
Rom. 12.9.   

We must learn to fly from evil company.  There is commonly, as there hath always in deed been, certain disorderous, lewse, and corrupt people, that can not be brought to the doing of their duty, neither by the admonitions, nor by the corrections& censures of the church. And diuers there are, who( as though the cords of our flesh were not strong enough to draw us to evil) seek nothing more, then to join themselves in familiarity& company, with profane men and mockers, which is the very cause of the corruption and lewsenes of many. When then we shall see men walk disorderously, and namely such, as for their disorderous life, are cut off from the Church, we ought not to haue any familiarity with them, except it be, to draw and win them from evil. For it is our duty, as david saith, not to walk in the counsel of the wicked, 
Psal. 1.1.  nor to stand in the way of sinners, nor to sit in the seat of the scorners, but to withdraw ourselves from evil, that we might cleave to the lord. And as concerning those that are called brethren, we must not wink at them neither, but following the order that Iesus Christ hath set us, 
Mat. 28.15. &c  admonish them, as brethren, between them and us: and if they amend not, to take two or three witnesses: and if that do no good, to advertise the church thereof, to the end that we be not partakers of evil, or faulty for their fall, or guilty of their transgression.  
Neither is it sufficient, 
Christian life.  that we withdraw ourselves from wicked companies, and yet in the mean while we ourselves be wicked and corrupt. For, that grace of God that bringeth salvation unto al men, hath appeared, to the end, 
Titus. 2.11.  that renouncing all ungodliness, and wicked lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and religiously in this present world.  
The study of godliness, 
The study of Gods word.  and the desire to profit in Gods word, are in such sort waxed cold in diuers, that it seemeth that men would put out the light of the Gospel, which God hath kindled again in our time: and in many mens judgements and persuasions, the preaching of the word, and communicating in the holy supper, are nothing but cold and unprofitable ceremonies, as the sacrifices and sacraments were, in the old time to the Iewes. 
psalm. 50. Isay. 2.  But for as much as they are helps, to set us forward in the knowledge of God, and marks by which we make profession of our christianity: it behoveth us, by an honest and Christian life to be answerable to that holy vocation, to which we are called.  

We must fly whoredom.  adultery and whoredom, is a very detestable and vile thing, but chiefly among Christians, who are the Temples of the living God, 
1. Cor. 6.15. & members of Christ. wherefore we must fly from, detest, and abhor, not onely such filthiness, but also all foul and villainous words, that both with heart and mouth we may be sanctified in the Lord.  

Against quarrels and contentions.  The holy supper is in such sort ordained, to testify the union and coniunction, that we haue with christ, that withall, it is also a sacrament of our love and unity one with an other.  
And therefore, next to impiety and ungodliness, there is nothing that is more contrary to the lawful use of the holy Supper, then quarrels, hatreds and malice, which notwithstanding are moved and stirred up amongst many, for a matter of nothing,& being once moved, can not be pacified or reconciled. But we ought to remember, that The peacemakers are blessed: 
mat. 5.9. Ephe. 4.26. 1. John. 3.15. mat. 5.23.24.  that the sun should not go down vpon our wrath: that he that hateth his brother is a murderer: And that God hath rejected the sacrifice of our prayers, and al the service that we do unto him, if we be not first reconciled unto our brethren. And if there arise any controversy, wherein brethren can not agree amongst themselves, that they advertise the Elders thereof, to the end, that either they may be made to agree, or else persuaded quietly to submit themselves, to the arbitrement or award of good men.  
drunkenness also is an other brutish 'vice, and a fault unseemly, 
drunkenness  not onely for Christians, but also for men: as by which they lose the use of reason, whereupon also ensue blasphemies, quarrels, fightings iestings, loss of goods, contentions in households, and destruction of poor children, besides very great offence. And albeit that we see daily infinite examples therof, yet many can not for al that, be turned from haunting of taverns. Now if it be intolerable in men, much more unworthy and unseemly a thing is it in women, who should strive to all modesty, 
Titus. 2.5.  and to haue care of their households, and not to trot up and down from tavern to tavern, or from Alehouse to Alehouse, which are nothing else for the most parte, but shops of all dissoluteness and wantonness. Wherefore we do in the name of God exhort all the faithful, to imprint in their remembrance, this sentence of Saint Paul. Be ye not unwise, 
Eph. 5.17.18.19.  but understand what the will of the lord is: And be not drunken with wine, wherein is excess, but be filled with the spirit, speaking unto yourselves in psalms, and hymns, and spiritual songs, singing,& making melody to the Lord in your heartes.  

Conclusion. 1. John. 3.5.8.  To conclude and be short, seeing that Christ is come into the world to destroy sin:& that the supper is a testimony, the Iesus Christ liveth in us,& we in him: let us fly from all blasphemies, idleness, filthinesses, thefts, deceits, backbitings covetousness, and such other like things, for which things sake the wrath of God cometh upon the children of unbelief, 
Col. 3.6. Rom. 13.14. 1. Cor. 10.31.  but being clothed with Iesus christ, let us do all that we do, to the glory of his name, yielding always thanks to our God and Father, through our Lord Iesus Christ: to whom with the Father and the holy spirit, be all honour and glory for ever and ever. So be it.  
FINIS.