1LBCF First London Baptist Confession of Faith (1644)

The Lord our God is but one God (Isa 46:9; Jhn 10:30; Deu 6:4), whose subsistence is in Himself (Act 17:24-25; Jhn 4:24); whose essence cannot be comprehended by any but Himself (1Co 2:11; Mat 11:27); who only has immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto (1Ti 6:16); who is in Himself most holy (Rev 15:4; Isa 6:1-3; Isa 43:15); every way infinite in greatness (1Ki 8:27), wisdom (1Co 1:20-25; Rom 11:33-34; Isa 40:13-14), power (Job 42:2; Jer 10:12; Rev 1:8), love (1Jn 4:7-10; Hos 2:21-22); merciful and gracious (Exo 34:6-7; Psa 103:8-9), long-suffering (2Pe 3:9), and abundant in goodness and truth (Jhn 1:17-18); who gives being, moving and preservation to all creatures (Psa 104:27-30; Act 17:28).

In this divine and infinite being there is the Father (1Co 1:3), the Son (Jhn 1:1, 14; 2Pe 1:1; Jhn 1:18), and the Holy Spirit (Jhn 15:26; Luk 1:35; Rom 8:10-11); each having the whole divine essence (1Co 8:6; 1Co 12:11; Mat 28:19), but distinguished by several peculiar relative properties (Mat 3:16-17; 2Co 13:13), yet the essence undivided, all infinite without any beginning, therefore but one God who is not to be divided in nature and being (Mat 28:19; Eph 2:18).

God has decreed in Himself (Isa 46:10; Eph 1:11; Rom 11:33-34), before the world was (Eph 1:4; Rev 13:8; Act 2:23; Rev 17:8), concerning all things, to work, dispose, and bring them about according to the counsel of His own will (Pro 19:21; Eph 1:11), to His glory (Eph 1:5-6, 12; Rom 11:36; Ezk 36:22-23); yet without being the author of sin, or having fellowship with any therein (Jas 1:12-17), in which appears His wisdom in disposing all things (Rom 11:33), unchangeableness (Jas 1:17), power (Rev 1:8; Rev 4:8, 11), and faithfulness in accomplishing His decree (Rom 11:29-32; Psa 145:11-13; Heb 6:17); and God has, before the foundation of the world, foreordained some men to eternal life, through Jesus Christ, to the praise and glory of His grace (Eph 1:4-5, 11; Rom 8:29-30; Jhn 17:9); leaving the rest to act in their sin to their just condemnation, to the praise of His justice (Jhn 12:37-40; Rom 9:14-23; 1Pe 2:8).

In the beginning God made all things very good (Gen 1:1, 31; Psa 33:6-9; Neh 9:6; Col 1:16); created man after His own image (Gen 1:26-28; Jas 3:9; Psa 8:4-7), filled with all meet perfection of nature, and free from all sin (Gen 2:25); but long he abode not in this honour (Ecc 7:29); Satan using the subtlety of the serpent to seduce first Eve, then by her seducing Adam (Gen 3:1-7; 2Co 11:3; 1Ti 2:14); who without any compulsion, in eating the forbidden fruit (Gen 2:16-17), transgressed the command of God, and fell (Gen 3:23-24); whereby death came upon all his posterity (Rom 5:12-14, 18, 19; 1Co 15:21, 22), who now are conceived in sin (Psa 51:7), and by nature the children of wrath (Eph 2:3), the servants of sin (Jhn 8:34; Rom 6:17, 19, 20-21), the subjects of death and other miseries in this world, and for ever (Rom 6:23; Gen 3:17-19); unless the Lord Jesus Christ set them free (Col 1:13-14; 1Th 1:10; Rom 6:23).

God in His infinite power and wisdom does dispose all things to the end for which they were created (Psa 104:20-24, 30; Isa 46:9-11; Rev 4:8, 11; Pro 16:4); that neither good nor evil befalls any by chance (Pro 16:33; Dan 4:29) or without His providence (Isa 45:7; Amo 3:6; Act 4:27-28); and that whatsoever befalls the elect, is by His appointment (Eph 1:11); for His glory (Rom 11:33-36; Rev 4:11; Eph 1:6, 12, 14) and their good (Rom 8:28-29; Gen 50:20).

All the elect (Eph 1:4-5; Rom 8:30; 2Th 2:13), being loved of God with an everlasting love (Jer 31:3; 1Th 1:4), are redeemed (1Co 1:29-30; Jhn 6:37), quickened (Eph 2:5; Ezk 36:26; Ezk 37:5, 14; 1Pe 1:23), and saved (1Pe 1:4-5; Jhn 10:28-29), not by themselves (Jhn 1:12-13; Rom 9:15-16; Jhn 6:44, 65) nor their own works (Eph 2:8-9), lest any man should boast (Rom 3:27); but only and wholly by God (Jhn 15:16), of His own free grace (Act 13:48; Eph 2:8) and mercy (1Pe 1:3); through Jesus Christ, who is made unto us by God wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption, and all in all, that he that rejoices might rejoice in the Lord (1Co 1:30-31).

And this is life eternal, that we might know Him the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom He has sent (Jhn 17:3; Jhn 6:40; 1Jn 5:11-13). And on the contrary, the Lord will render vengeance in flaming fire (Mat 13:49-50; Rev 20:10, 14-15), to them that know not God, and obey not the gospel of Jesus Christ (2Th 1:8-9; Heb 10:26-31; Jhn 3:36).

The rule of this knowledge, faith, and obedience concerning the worship of God, in which is contained the whole duty of man, is not men’s laws or traditions (Mat 15:1-9; 1Ti 1:3-7; Col 2:8, 16-23), but only the word of God (1Th 2:13; 2Pe 1:19-21; 1Co 2:13) contained in the canonical Holy Scriptures (2Ti 3:15-17; Isa 8:20); in which is plainly recorded whatsoever is needful for us to know, believe, and practice (Jhn 5:39; Psa 19:8; 2Pe 1:19-21); which are the only rule of holiness and obedience for all saints, at all times, in all places to be observed (Rev 22:18-19).

The Lord (Act 2:34-36) Jesus (Mat 1:21) Christ (Mat 16:16), of whom Moses (Num 24:17; Luk 24:25-27; Gen 49:10) and the Prophets wrote (Isa 52:13-15; Isa 53:1-12; Psa 110:1-4; Rom 1:2), the Apostles preached (Act 1:21-22; Col 1:25-29), He is the Son of God (1Jn 5:20; Mrk 1:11; Jhn 5:19-26), the brightness of His glory, etc. (Heb 1:1-4; Col 1:15-20; Isa 9:5-6) by whom He made the world (Jhn 1:1-3; 1Co 8:6); who upholds (Col 1:15-17) and governs (Heb 1:2-3) all things that He has made; who also when the fullness of time was come, was made of a woman (Gal 4:4), of the tribe of Judah (Heb 7:14; Rev 5:5; Gen 49:9-10), of the seed of Abraham and David (Mat 1:1); to wit, of the virgin Mary, the Holy Spirit coming down upon her, the power of the most High overshadowing her (Mat 1:20-23; Luk 1:26-35); and He was also tempted as we are (Heb 2:14-18; Luk 4:1-13; Luk 22:39-46), yet without sin (2Co 5:21; 1Jn 3:5; 1Pe 2:22).

Jesus Christ is made the mediator of the new (Heb 8:8-9; Jer 31:31) and everlasting (Heb 13:20; Ezk 37:26) covenant of grace between God and man (1Ti 2:5; Heb 8:6); ever to be perfectly and fully the prophet (Act 3:22; Deu 18:18; Heb 1:1-4), priest (Heb 7:20-28), and king (Luk 1:32-33; Rev 19:11-16; Eph 1:20-22) of the church of God for evermore (Col 1:18; Isa 9:5-6).

Unto this office He was appointed by God from everlasting (1Pe 1:20; Jhn 17:24); and in respect of His manhood, from the womb called (Mat 1:21-23; Luk 1:31-37; Luk 2:10-14), separated (Mrk 1:10-11), and anointed (Luk 4:17-21) most fully and abundantly with all gifts necessary (Col 1:19; Col 2:3, 9-10; Jhn 1:14), God having without measure poured out His Spirit upon Him (Jhn 3:34; Isa 11:2-5).

Concerning His mediatorship, the Scripture holds forth Christ’s call to His office; for none takes this honour upon Him, but He that is called of God as was Aaron (Heb 5:4-6); it being an action of God; whereby a special promise being made, He ordains His Son to this office (1Pe 1:20; Jhn 3:16); which promise is, that Christ should be made a sacrifice for sin (Isa 53:4-6; Rom 3:25; 1Pe 1:19-20), that He should see His seed and prolong His days, and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in His hand (Isa 53:10-11; Heb 2:13; Jhn 17:6); all of mere free and absolute grace towards God’s elect (Eph 1:3-11; Eph 2:8-10; Rom 9:11, 14-18; Jhn 10:26-28), and without any condition foreseen in them to procure it (Rom 9:11-13; 1Co 1:26-31; Rom 3:20, 24).

This office to be mediator, that is, to be prophet (Act 3:22-23; Deu 18:15, 18), priest (Heb 7:20-28), and king (Luk 1:32-33) of the Church of God, is so proper to Christ (Col 1:18; Eph 1:22), that neither in whole, or any part thereof, it cannot be transferred from Him to any other (Act 4:12; Jhn 14:6; 1Ti 2:5).

This office to which Christ is called is threefold: a prophet (Act 3:22-23), priest (Heb 7:20-28), and king (Luk 1:32-33). This number and order of offices is necessary, for in respect of our ignorance, we stand in need of His prophetical office (Mat 7:29; Jhn 1:18); in respect of our great alienation from God, we need His priestly office to reconcile us (Col 1:21-22; 1Jn 2:2); and in respect of our averseness and utter inability to return to God, we need His kingly office to convince (Jhn 6:63, 67-68), subdue (Act 26:12-18; Eph 2:1-5), draw (Jhn 6:44-45), uphold (Eph 6:10; Mat 28:18-20) and preserve us to His heavenly kingdom (Jhn 10:27-29; Luk 12:32; 1Pe 1:4-5, 8-9).

Concerning the prophecy of Christ, it is that whereby He has revealed the will of God, whatsoever is needful for His servants to know (Jhn 12:49-50; Jhn 17:3-4, 8; Luk 24:19, 25-27, 32) and obey (Jhn 13:15-17; Luk 10:38-42); and therefore He is called not only a prophet (Luk 4:18-21) and teacher (Mat 7:29), and the apostle of our profession (Heb 3:1), and the messenger of the covenant (Mal 3:1), but also the very wisdom of God (1Co 1:24), in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Col 2:3), who forever continues revealing the same truth of the gospel to His people (Jhn 16:13-15).

That He might be a prophet every way complete, it was necessary He should be God (Jhn 1:1, 9; Jhn 8:58; Heb 1:8), and also that He should be man (Jhn 1:4-18; Heb 2:14, 16), For unless He had been God, He could never have perfectly understood the will of God (1Jn 5:20; Jhn 1:18); and unless He had been man, He could not suitably have unfolded it in His own person to men (1Jn 1:2; 1Ti 3:16).

Concerning His priesthood, Christ having sanctified (Jhn 17:19) Himself has appeared once to put away sin (Heb 9:25-28) by that one offering of Himself a sacrifice for sin (Eph 5:2; 1Pe 2:24; Heb 9:11-12); by which He has fully finished (Jhn 19:28-30; Jhn 17:4; Heb 7:25) and suffered all things (2Co 5:21; Gal 3:1; Mrk 15:34; Mat 27:27-31, 37-44) God required for the salvation of His elect (Rev 5:9; Heb 2:17; Mrk 10:45; Rom 5:19); and removed all rites and shadows etc. (Col 2:16-23; Heb 8:1-13; Rom 10:4; Rom 3:21) and is now entered within the veil into the holy of holies, which is the presence of God (Heb 9:24; Heb 4:14, 16; Rom 8:34).

This priesthood was not legal or temporary (Heb 7:15-22, 28), but according to the order of Melchizedek (Psa 110:4; Gen 14:18; Heb 7:1-10), and is stable and perfect, not for a time, but forever (Heb 7:24-28), which is suitable to Jesus Christ, as to Him that ever lives (Heb 7:24). He makes His people a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifice (1Pe 2:5; Rev 1:6) acceptable to God through Him (Rom 12:1; Rom 15:16). Neither does the Father accept (Jhn 4:24), nor Christ offer (Jhn 17:9) to the Father, any other worship or worshippers.

Concerning His kingly office, Christ being risen from the dead (1Co 15:4; Act 2:30-36; Act 5:30-31), and ascended into heaven (1Pe 3:22; Luk 24:51), and having all power in heaven and earth (Mat 28:18-19; Col 1:15-19); He does spiritually govern His church (Col 1:18; Eph 1:22-23; Eph 5:23) and does exercise His power over all (Rom 14:9; Rev 5:13; Col 1:16-17), angels and men, good and bad (Eph 1:20-22; 1Co 15:25; Luk 4:36), to the preservation (1Pe 1:4-5; Php 1:6; Jhn 10:27-29; Jhn 6:39) and salvation (Eph 1:3-11; Rev 5:9; Rom 8:29) of the elect, and to the overruling and destruction of His enemies (Col 2:14-15; 1Co 15:24-25; Rev 19:11-16; Act 2:34-35). By this kingly power He applies the benefits, virtue, and fruits of His prophecy and priesthood to His elect (Act 2:47; Act 5:31), subduing their sins (Rom 5:15; 1Jn 1:9; Mat 9:6-7), preserving and strengthening them in all their conflicts against Satan, the world, and the flesh (Jhn 17:6, 9-12, 15, 20, 24; 1Pe 1:3-5; Rom 8:28, 31-39), keeping their hearts in faith and filial fear by His Spirit (Ezk 36:26-32; Jhn 14:16-17; Rom 8:13-17). By this His mighty power He rules the vessels of wrath, using, limiting and restraining them (Job 2:6; Mrk 5:1-14; Rom 9:17-18, 22-23), as it seems good to His infinite wisdom (Rom 11:33; 1Co 1:24; Col 2:3).

This His kingly power shall be more fully manifested when He shall come in glory (Mat 24:30-31; Mat 25:31-32; Rev 19:11-16) to reign among His saints (2Th 1:9-10); when He shall put down all rule and authority under His feet (1Co 15:24-25, 28; Act 17:30-31; Act 2:34-35); that the glory of the Father may be perfectly manifested in His Son (1Co 15:28; Jhn 5:21-28; Rev 21:22-23), and the glory of the Father and the Son in all His members (Rom 8:11, 29; 1Co 15:42-49; Rev 21:9-11).

Jesus Christ by His death (Rom 5:6-9; Mrk 10:45; 1Co 15:3) did purchase salvation (1Th 5:9; Jhn 10:14-16; 1Pe 1:18-19; Rom 3:25) for the elect (2Ti 1:9; Heb 9:15; Jhn 10:26-28) that God gave unto Him (Jhn 6:37-39, 44, 65): These only have interest in Him (1Jn 5:12; Jhn 10:26-28; Eph 1:13-14; Rev 13:8), and fellowship with Him (Eph 1:22-23; Jhn 17:6-7, 20-24; Eph 2:17-19), for whom He makes intercession to His Father in their behalf (Heb 7:25-26; Rom 8:34; Jhn 17:9), and to them alone does God by His Spirit apply this redemption (Eph 1:9, 13-14; Jhn 3:3-13; 1Pe 1:2; 2Th 2:13); as also the free gift of eternal life (Rom 6:23; 1Jn 5:11-13; Jhn 3:14-16, 36) is given to them, and none else (Eph 5:25; Mat 1:21; Jhn 5:21; Rom 8:29).

Faith is the gift of God (Eph 2:4-5, 8-9; Act 11:18), wrought in the hearts of the elect (2Th 2:13; Act 13:48; Eph 1:3-6) by the Spirit of God (1Co 2:9-16; Ezk 36:26-27; Rom 8:15-17); by which faith they come to know and believe (1Th 2:13; Rom 10:14-17) the truth of the Scriptures (Jhn 17:17; Jhn 16:13; Eph 1:13), and the excellency of them above all other writings, and all things in the world (Psa 119:72; Psa 19:8-11; 2Ti 3:15-17), as they hold forth the glory of God in His attributes (Psa 111; Psa 24; Job 38:1-41; Job 39:1-30; Job 40:1-14), the excellency of Christ in His nature and offices (Jhn 5:39; Jhn 3:14-16; Jhn 6:40; Heb 5:4-6), and of the power and fulness of the Spirit in His workings and operations (Jhn 6:63; Gal 5:22-23; Rom 5:5); and so are enabled to cast their souls upon His truth thus believed (Ezk 36:26-27; Jhn 6:67-69).

All those that have this precious faith wrought in them by the Spirit can never finally nor totally fall away (Jhn 10:27-29; Rom 8:31-39; Jhn 6:35-40), seeing the gifts of God are without repentance (Rom 11:29; 1Jn 5:13; Jhn 17:2); so that He still begets and nourishes (Jhn 6:35; Jhn 4:13-14) in them faith (1Pe 1:5; Psa 42:5, 11; Gal 2:20), repentance (Rom 2:4; 2Co 7:9-10; Php 2:12-13), love (Php 1:9; 1Th 3:12; 2Th 1:3), joy (Psa 51:14; Php 1:25), hope (Rom 5:1-5), and all the graces of the Spirit (Jhn 3:6) unto immortality (Jhn 6:37-40; Jhn 11:25-26); and though many storms and floods arise, and beat against them, yet they shall never be able to take them off that foundation and rock, which by faith they are fastened upon (Rom 8:31-39; 2Ti 2:19); not withstanding, through unbelief (Psa 77:8-9; Jhn 20:24-29), and the temptations of Satan (Jas 1:2-4; Job 2:9; Mat 26:69-75; 2Co 12:7), the sensible sight of this light and love be clouded and overwhelmed for a time (Jas 3:2; Gal 2:11-13); yet God is still the same (Jas 1:17; Heb 13:8; Rom 11:29), and they shall be sure to be kept by the power of God unto salvation (Rom 5:9-10; Heb 4:14-16); where they shall enjoy their purchased possession (Rom 5:2-3, 11; Luk 10:20; Rev 7:9-10); they being engraven upon the palms of His hands (Isa 49:13-16; Rev 14:1), and their names having been written in the book of life from all eternity (Rev 13:8; Luk 10:20; Php 4:3; Eph 1:4).

Faith is ordinarily begotten by the preaching of the gospel, or word of Christ (Rom 10:14-17; 1Pe 1:23-25); without respect to any power or agency in the creature (Jhn 1:11-13; Mat 19:25-26; Eph 2:8); but it being wholly passive (Jhn 3:3-5; Ezk 36:26; Rom 9:10-18), and dead in trespasses and sins (Eph 2:1, 4-5; Col 2:13; Jhn 8:34); does believe and is converted (1Co 1:26-31) by no less power than that which raised Christ from the dead (Eph 1:18-20; Col 2:12; Php 3:10). This gospel, which is to be preached to all men as the ground of faith (1Co 15:1-3; Gal 1:11-12; 1Ti 1:15), is, that Jesus is the Christ (Mat 16:15-17; Luk 2:11), the son of the ever blessed God (Jhn 20:31; Jhn 11:27; Jhn 1:18), filled with the perfection of all heavenly and spiritual excellencies (Eph 1:9-10, 21-22; Col 1:20-21, 27; Col 2:9-10); and that salvation is only and alone to be had through the believing in His name (Act 4:12; Jhn 14:6).

The preaching of the gospel to the conversion of sinners is absolutely free, no way requiring as absolutely necessary any qualifications, preparations, or terrors of the law, or preceding ministry of the law (Act 13:48; Rom 10:4; Rom 3:26; Jhn 7:37-39); but only and alone the naked soul (Act 16:13-15; Jhn 6:44-45; 2Co 4:3-6), a sinner (1Ti 1:15; Psa 51:7) and ungodly (Rom 4:5), to receive Christ (Jhn 1:12; Rom 10:13) crucified, dead and buried, and risen again; who is made a prince and a saviour (Act 5:31; Mat 2:6) for such sinners as through the gospel shall be brought to believe on Him (Act 5:30-31; Act 2:36-38; Jhn 6:63-69; Eph 1:13).

The same power that converts to faith in Christ carries on the soul through all duties (2Co 12:9), temptations (2Ti 4:18; Jas 1:2-4), conflicts (Exo 14:14; 1Pe 4:12-14), sufferings (2Co 12:7-10; 2Ti 1:12); and whatsoever a believer is, he is by grace (1Co 15:10; Heb 13:9; Eph 2:4-5, 8-9; 2Ti 1:9); and is carried on in all obedience (Rom 1:5; Rom 16:26; Jhn 15:5) and temptations (Rom 5:1-5) by the same.

All believers are by Christ united to God (Jhn 17:20-23; Eph 2:17-19; Heb 2:11); by which union God is one with them, and they are one with Him (1Jn 4:15-16; Gal 2:19-20); and all believers are the sons of God (Rom 8:14-21; 1Jn 3:1-2; Jhn 1:12-13), and joint heirs with Christ (Rom 8:14-17; Eph 3:6), to whom belong all the promises of this life, and that which is to come (2Co 1:20; Gal 3:26-29).

Those who have union with Christ are justified from all their sins (1Jn 1:7; 2Co 5:19, 21; Rom 3:24), past, present, and to come (Heb 10:10-18; Rev 5:9-10; Mat 26:28; 1Jn 2:1-2), by the blood of Christ, which justification is a gracious and full acquittance (Heb 10:16-18; Rom 4:3, 22-24; 1Jn 1:9; Psa 32:1-2) of a guilty sinner (1Ti 1:15-16; Mat 9:13; Luk 19:10) from all sin (2Co 5:18-21; Col 1:19-20), by God, through the satisfaction (Mrk 10:45; 1Pe 1:18-19; Col 2:14; Gal 4:4-5) that Christ has made by His death (Heb 9:26; Rom 3:25; Eph 5:2), and this applied through faith (Jhn 3:14-16; Eph 2:4-5, 8-9; 2Th 2:13).

All believers are holy (1Pe 1:15-16; Lev 19:2; 1Pe 2:9) and sanctified (1Co 1:2; 1Co 6:11; Jhn 17:19) people. Sanctification is a spiritual fruit of the new covenant (Rom 6:22; Heb 9:14-15; Heb 8:10), and an effect of the love of God manifested in the soul (Rom 5:5; 1Jn 4:10, 16-19; 1Jn 3:1-3), whereby the believer presses after a heavenly and evangelical obedience (Rom 1:5; Rom 16:26; Tit 2:11-12) to all the commands (2Co 5:14; 2Co 7:1; Gal 2:19-20), which Christ as head and king in His new covenant has prescribed to them (1Jn 4:16; Mat 28:18-20; Jhn 15:9-17).

All believers, through the knowledge of that justification of life given by the Father and brought forth by the blood of Christ, have as their great privilege of that new covenant: peace with God (Rom 5:1; Isa 53:5; Eph 2:14-18), reconciliation (1Jn 4:10; 2Co 5:17-21; Eph 2:16), whereby they that were afar off are made nigh by that blood (Col 1:19-23; Eph 2:11-18), and have peace passing all understanding (Php 4:7); yea, joy in God (Act 13:48, 52; Luk 10:20; Rom 5:2-3, 10-11) through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have received the atonement.

All believers in the time of this life are in a continual warfare and combat against sin (Rom 6:12-18), self (Jas 1:12-14; Gal 5:24), the world (Col 3:2; Jhn 15:18; 1Jn 2:15, 17), and the devil (1Pe 5:8-9; Eph 6:10-12; 2Co 12:7); and are liable to all manner of afflictions (Act 14:22; Rom 5:3), tribulations (2Co 4:17; Rom 8:23-24) and persecutions (2Ti 3:12; Jhn 15:18), being predestinated and appointed thereunto (Rom 8:17, 29, 35-36; 1Th 3:3-4; Act 14:22), and whatsoever the saints possess or enjoy of God spiritually, is by faith (2Co 5:7; Rom 8:23-25; Heb 11:1, 13, 39).

The only strength by which the saints are enabled to encounter with all oppositions and trials is only by Jesus Christ (Jhn 15:5; 2Co 12:7-10), who is the captain of their salvation, being made perfect through sufferings; who has engaged His faithfulness and strength to assist them in all their afflictions, and to uphold them in all their temptations, and to preserve them by His power to His everlasting kingdom (2Ti 1:12; 1Pe 1:4-5; Jhn 10:27-29).

Jesus Christ has here on earth a spiritual kingdom (Mat 16:18; 1Co 1:2), which is His church, whom he has purchased (Act 20:28; Jhn 10:11, 26-28) and redeemed to Himself as a peculiar inheritance (1Pe 2:9; Tit 2:14; Eph 1:3-5); which church as it is visible to us is a company of visible saints (Act 9:31; 1Co 16:19; Rom 16:3-5), called (Col 1:13-14; Gal 1:4) and separated from the world (1Pe 2:9-10; 2Co 6:16-18; Rev 18:4) by the word and Spirit of God (Isa 55:11; Jhn 10:27; Act 2:38), to the visible profession of the faith of the gospel (Rom 10:10; Act 2:37-41; Heb 10:23), being baptized into that faith (Rom 6:3-6; Act 8:35-38; 1Pe 3:21; Act 16:30-34), and joined to the Lord (Mat 28:20; 1Jn 1:3; Eph 1:22-23), and to each other by mutual agreement in the practical enjoyment of the ordinances commanded by Christ their head and king (Act 2:41-47; Col 2:19).

To this church He has made his promises (Mat 16:18-19; Mat 28:18-20), gives the signs of His covenant (1Co 11:23-24; Mat 26:26-29; Mat 28:19-20) and presence (Jhn 14:18; Mat 18:20), acceptation (Jhn 1:12-13; 1Jn 3:1; Gal 3:26), love (Eph 2:4-5; Rom 5:6-10), blessing (Gal 3:14; Eph 1:3) and protection (2Ti 4:18; Jhn 10:27-29); here are the fountains and springs of His heavenly grace continually flowing forth to refresh and strengthen them (Jhn 4:6, 15; Psa 23:1-3), thither ought all men to come, of all estates (1Co 1:26-31; Eph 2:19-22), that acknowledge Him to be their prophet, priest and king (Rom 10:9-11; Luk 12:8; 1Jn 4:2), to be enrolled amongst His household servants (Eph 4:1-13; Rom 12:6-8; 1Co 12:12-13, 28), to be under His heavenly conduct and government (Col 1:12-13; Eph 2:6), to lead their lives in his walled sheepfold (Jhn 10:1, 7-16) and watered garden (1Co 3:6-9; Col 2:6-7), to have communion here with the saints (1Co 11:33; Act 5:13-14; Jhn 17:20-21), that they may be assured that they are made meet to be partakers of their inheritance in the kingdom of God (Act 20:32; Eph 3:6; Tit 3:7).

And all His servants are called thither (Act 2:41, 47; Heb 10:25), to present their bodies and souls (Rom 12:1; Rom 6:13; 1Co 6:19-20; 1Pe 2:5), and to bring their gifts God has given them (1Pe 4:10; Rom 12:6-8; Gal 5:13), so being come, they are here by himself to be bestowed in their several order, peculiar place, due use (Rom 12:4-8; 1Pe 4:10; Mrk 10:43), being fitly compact and knit together, according to the effectual working of every part (1Co 12:4-11; Eph 4:7), to the edification of itself in love (Eph 4:16; Col 2:19). And they are to supply each others wants, inward and outward (2Co 8:12-15; 1Jn 3:14-18; Act 2:44-45; Act 4:34-35); and although each person has a propriety in his own estate (Act 5:4), yet they are to supply each others wants, according as their necessities shall require, that the name of Jesus Christ may not be blasphemed through the necessity of any in the church (2Co 9:6-15; Tit 3:14; Rom 12:13).

Being thus joined, every church has power given them from Christ, for their wellbeing (Act 6:3, 5-6; Php 1:1; Tit 1:5; Act 14:23; 1Th 5:12; Act 15:22; 1Co 12:5), to choose to themselves meet persons for elders and deacons, being qualified according to the word (1Ti 3:1-13; Tit 1:6-9); for the execution of power, or duty (1Pe 5:1-3; Rom 12:7-8; 1Co 4:2; Mrk 9:35), which Christ entrusts them with, or calls them to; to be continued to the end of the world (1Pe 5:4; Tit 1:9).

The ministers lawfully called (Heb 5:4; 1Ti 4:14; Act 13:3), as aforesaid, ought to continue in their calling and place according to God’s ordinance (1Ti 3:1-10; Tit 1:5-9; 1Pe 5:1-4), and carefully to feed the flock of God committed to them (Heb 13:17; Act 20:28; 1Pe 5:2-3), not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind (1Ti 3:3; Tit 1:7; Act 20:33-35; 1Pe 5:1-3).

The due maintenance of pastors should be upheld freely by the church (1Ti 5:17-18; Gal 6:6), that according to Christ’s ordinance they that preach the gospel should live of the gospel by the law of Christ (1Co 9:6-7, 11, 14; Luk 10:7).

Baptism is an ordinance of the New Testament, given by Christ (Mat 28:18-20), to be dispensed upon persons professing faith, or that are made disciples (Act 2:37-42; Act 8:12-13; Act 16:14-15); who upon profession of faith, and desiring of it, ought to be baptized (1Pe 3:21; Act 16:30-34). The way and manner of the dispensing of this ordinance the Scripture holds out to be dipping or plunging the whole body under water (Act 8:38; Mat 3:16); it being a sign (Gal 3:27; Rom 6:3-6; Col 2:12), must answer the things signified, which are the washing of the whole soul in the blood of Christ (Rev 1:5; 1Jn 1:7; Heb 9:14) and that interest the saints have in the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ (Rom 6:3-10; Col 2:12); and as certainly as the body is buried under water, and risen again, so certainly shall the bodies of the saints be raised by the power of Christ, in the day of the resurrection (1Co 6:14; 1Th 4:14; 2Co 4:14; Jhn 11:21-27), to reign with Christ (Rom 5:17; Rev 5:10).

The Supper of the Lord Jesus was instituted by him the same night wherein he was betrayed (Luk 22:1-22; 1Co 11:23-25; Mrk 14:22-24), to be observed in his church unto the end of the world (1Co 11:17-22; 1Co 10:16-17; Mrk 14:25; 1Co 11:26); for the perpetual remembrance and shewing forth the sacrifice of himself in his death (Luk 22:19-20; 1Co 11:26); confirmation of the faith of believers in all the benefits thereof (Luk 22:19-20; 1Co 11:23-26); their spiritual nourishment and growth in him (Jhn 6:35, 40, 47-48, 50-56); and to be a bond and pledge of their communion with him (1Co 10:16; Jhn 6:56) and with each other (1Co 10:17; 1Co 11:33). In this ordinance Christ is not offered up to his father, nor any real sacrifice made at all for remission of sin of the quick or dead; but only a memorial (1Co 11:24-25; Luk 22:19) of that one offering up of himself by himself upon the cross, once for all (1Pe 3:18; Rom 6:10; Heb 10:10-14, 18); and a spiritual oblation of all possible praise unto God for the same (Mat 26:26, 30; 1Co 10:31).

The persons designed by Christ to dispense these ordinances, the Scriptures hold forth to be preaching disciples (Mat 28:19-20; Jhn 4:2; Act 20:7), it being nowhere tied to a particular church-officer, or person extraordinarily sent, the commission to administer baptism and to guide the action of the church in the use of the Lord’s Supper is being given to them under no other consideration, but as proven disciples (Act 8:12; 1Pe 2:4-9).

Christ has likewise given power to His Church to receive in (2Jn 1:9-11; Rom 16:1-2; 2Co 2:6-8), and cast out (Mat 18:15-20; Rom 16:17; 1Co 5:11-13; 2Th 3:6, 14-15), any member that deserves it; and this power is given to every particular congregation, and not to one particular person, either member or officer, but in relation to the whole body (1Co 5:4-5, 11-13; Mat 18:17; 2Co 2:6), in reference to their faith (Gal 1:8; 2Jn 1:9-10; Rev 2:14-16) and fellowship (1Co 5:1-2, 11; Rev 2:2).

And every particular member of each church, how excellent, great, or learned soever, is subject to this censure and judgment (1Jn 4:1; Rev 2:2; Gal 2:11-16; 2Co 13:1-10); and the church ought not without great care (Mat 18:15-20; 1Ti 5:19-21) and tenderness (Gal 6:1; 2Th 3:14-15), and due advice (Act 15:1-3; Mat 18:15-20), but by the rule of faith (Tit 1:9; 2Ti 1:13; Act 20:26-32), to proceed against her members.

Christ for the keeping of this church in holy and orderly communion places some special men over the church (Tit 1:5-9; 1Ti 3:1-7; Act 14:23; Mat 24:45-46), who by their office are to govern, oversee, visit, watch (Act 20:27-28; 1Pe 5:1-3; Rom 12:7-8; Heb 13:17); so likewise for the better keeping thereof in all places by the members, He has given authority, and laid duty upon all, to watch over one another (Heb 10:24; Heb 12:15; Col 3:16; 1Th 5:14).

Also such in the church to whom God has given gifts to interpret the Scriptures, may and ought to preach (1Jn 4:1; 1Pe 4:10-11; 1Co 12:7-11) in accordance with the faith (Rom 12:6; Tit 1:9; 2Ti 3:14-17; Gal 1:8), and so to teach publicly the word of God (Col 1:28-29; Act 2:14), for the edification, exhortation, and comfort of the church (1Co 12:7; 1Co 14:1-4; Eph 4:11-12).

Thus being rightly gathered, and continuing in the obedience of the gospel of Christ, none are to separate for faults and corruptions (Heb 10:24-25; Rom 15:1-2, 7; Eph 4:1-6; 1Jn 4:20-21), until they have in due order, and tenderness, sought redress thereof (Act 15:1-2; Rev 2:19-25); for as long as the church consists of men subject to failings, there will be difference in the true constituted church (1Jn 1:8-10; 1Jn 2:1-2; 1Pe 4:8).

Although the particular congregations be distinct and several bodies, every one as a compact and knit city within itself (Rom 12:4-8; 1Co 12:4-6, 18-20; 1Co 1:2); yet they are all to walk by the same rule of truth (1Co 4:17; 1Ti 3:15; Mat 7:24-27; 1Co 14:36-38); so also they by all means convenient are to have the counsel and help one of another (2Co 8:13-15; Rom 15:25-27; Eph 4:11-16; Act 15:22-34), if necessity require it, as members of one body, in the common faith, under Christ their head (Col 1:18; Eph 1:22-23; Eph 4:15; 1Co 16:19-24).

A civil magistracy is an ordinance of God (Dan 4:29; Rom 13:1), set up by Him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well (1Pe 2:14); and in all lawful things commanded by them, subjection ought to be given by us in the Lord (1Pe 2:13; Rom 13:1; Tit 3:1; Mat 22:21); not only for wrath, but for conscience sake (Rom 13:5); and we are to make supplications and prayers for kings and all that are in authority, that under them we may live a quiet and peaceable life, in all godliness and honesty (1Ti 2:1-3; Jer 29:7).

But in case we find not the magistrate to favour us herein; yet we dare not suspend our practice, because we believe we ought to go in obedience to Christ (Act 4:18-20; Act 5:17-21, 28-33), in professing the faith which was once delivered to the saints, which faith is declared in the Holy Scriptures (2Ti 3:16-17; 2Pe 1:20-21) and affirmed in this our confession, and that we are to witness to the truth of the Old and New Testament unto the death, if necessity require (Dan 3:16-18; Act 7:52-60; Rom 12:1), in the midst of all trials and afflictions, as His saints of old have done (1Th 3:3-4; Php 1:28-29; 2Ti 3:10-13); not accounting our goods, lands, wives, children, fathers, mothers, brethren, sisters; yea, and our own lives dear unto us, so we may finish our course with joy (Act 20:24; Mat 10:37-39); remembering always that we ought to obey God rather than men (Act 4:19; Act 5:28-29); who will when we have finished our course, and kept the faith, give us the crown of righteousness (2Ti 4:6-8; Rev 2:26-28; Rev 3:5, 11-12, 21; Mat 19:29-30); to whom we must give an account of all our actions, and no man being able to discharge us of the same (Rom 14:10-12; 2Co 5:10).

It is lawful for a Christian to be a magistrate or civil officer (Rom 16:23; Act 10:1-2); and also it is lawful to take an oath, so it be in truth, and in judgment, and in righteousness, for confirmation of truth, and ending of all strife (Rom 9:1; Gal 1:20; 2Co 1:23; 2Co 11:31); and by rash and vain oaths the Lord is provoked and this land mourns (Mat 5:33-37; Mat 12:36; Jas 5:12; Lev 19:12).

We are to give unto all men whatsoever is their due (Rom 13:7-8; Mrk 12:29-31), as their place, age, estate, requires (Mat 22:21; 1Pe 2:17; Eph 5:21-33; Eph 6:1-9); and that we defraud no man of anything (1Pe 4:15; Eph 4:28; 1Ti 6:9-11), but to do unto all men, as we would they should do unto us (Mat 7:12; Gal 5:14; Rom 13:8-10).

There shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust (Act 24:15; Dan 12:2; Jhn 5:28-29), and everyone shall give an account of himself to God (Rom 14:10-12; Mat 16:27; Mat 25:31-46), that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he has done, whether it be good or bad (Rev 22:11-15; Mat 24:13; Rom 8:1; Jhn 5:28-29).