Answer:

Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.

Scripture References:

1 Corinthians 10:31
Psalm 73:24-26
John 17:22, 24

Questions:

1. What is the meaning of the word “end” in this question?

The word means an aim, a purpose, an intention. It will be noted that the word “end” is qualified by the word “chief”. Thus it is noted that man will have other purposes in this life, but his primary purpose should be to glorify God. This is in keeping with the purpose for which man was made. It is when we are alienated from God that we have the wrong end or purpose in view.

2. What does the word “glorify” mean in this question?

Calvin tells us that the “glory of God is when we know what He is.” In its Scriptural sense, it is struggling to set forth a divine thing. We glorify Him when we do not seek our own glory but seek Him first in all things.

3. How can we glorify God?

Augustine said, “Thou hast created us for Thyself, O God, and our heart is restless until it finds repose in Thee.” We glorify God by believing in Him, by confessing Him before men, by praising Him, by defending His truth, by showing the fruits of the Spirit in our lives, by worshipping Him.

4. What rule should we remember in regard to glorifying God?

We should remember that every Christian is called of God to a life of service. We glorify God by using the abilities He has given us for Him, though we should remember that our service should be from the heart and not simply as a duty.

5. Why is the word “glorify” placed before “enjoy” in the answer?

It is placed first because you must glorify Him before you can enjoy Him. If enjoyment was placed first, you would be in danger of supposing that God exists for man instead of men for God. If a person would stress the enjoying of God over the glorifying of God there would be danger of simply an emotional type of religion. The Scripture says, “you will fill me with joy in your presence ....” (Ps. 16:11). But joy from God comes from being in a right relationship with God, the relationship being set within the confines of Scripture.

6. What is a good Scripture to memorize to remind us of the lesson found in Question No. 1?

“As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God ...” (Ps. 42:1, 2a)

This reminds us of the correct relationship for the Christian, looking unto Him. It is there we find our ability to glorify Him and the resulting joy.

Answer:

The word of God, which is contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, is the only rule to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him.

Scripture References:

2 Timothy 3:16
Isaiah 8:20
1 John 1:3
Luke 16:29, 31

Questions:

1. What is the meaning of the word “rule” in this question?

When this word is used in a religious sense it means a direction or a command. It naturally implies the idea of straightness by which a man may attain the best possible end.

2. Why is it necessary to have such a rule?

It is necessary as man needs an objective standard by which he may pattern his life. The Word of God, as his rule, must be the supreme authority in the life of the man. It should be noted that if man has placed something else above the Word of God, whether it is conscience or tradition or the church, he will tend to use that authority to interpret the Word of God in many facets of his life.

3. What do we mean when we say the Scriptures are the Word of God?

We mean that they are the Word of God in written form. We place no limitations on that statement. We mean that the Bible is the Word of God and the words in the Bible are the very words of God. We mean that the Bible is trustworthy because God inspired it and inspiration includes the very words of Scripture.

4. Some say that the Bible “contains” the Word of God. Is this true?

If they mean by it that the word of God forms the contents of the Bible it is true. But if they mean that the word of God forms only a part of the contents of the Bible and the rest makes up the words of men, they are not speaking the truth. Or if they mean by it that the Bible only becomes the Word of God when the Holy Spirit makes some portions of it applicable to the hearer, they are not speaking the truth. This would make man the judge of the Word of God. When our Shorter Catechism speaks of “the word of God” it means what the Westminster Standards have historically meant, that is, the Bible, is the Word of God as to both its contents and its form, so that there is nothing in it that God did not want to be in it, and reversely, it contains all that the Lord wanted to be contained therein.

5. Since this Word of God is to be our only rule, how can we know that it is the Word of God?

We know it by our simple acceptance of God’s statement that it is the word of God and that it is perfect. The Holy Spirit shows us Christ as our Saviour and brings the conviction to our hearts that it is the Word of God and we accept it by faith. Our Confession teaches us that our full assurance of the fact that the Bible is infallible and has the authority of God is the work of the Holy Spirit in our hearts.

Answer:

The Scriptures principally teach, what man is to believe concerning God, and what duty God requires of man.

Scripture References:

Micah 6:8
John 20:31
John 3:16
2 Timothy 1:3

Questions:

1. Why does our Catechism place such importance on the Scriptures?

There could be no Catechism without the Scripture, for the foundation of the Catechism itself is in the acceptance of the full truthfulness of the Bible as the Word of God. It is within the Word of God we find our way to eternal life. “And how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” (2 Tim. 3:15)

2. What is meant by the word “principally” in this question?

It means that though all things revealed in the Scriptures are equally true, yet everything in it is not equally necessary to salvation.

3. What are the two important teachings of the Word of God?

The two important teachings are what we believe and what we should do.

4. What is belief according to the Scriptures?

It includes three parts: (1) To be persuaded of the truth. (2) To credit the truth of a person. (3) To trust, to have confidence in a person. We must have faith (belief) in the words of God and in the God who speaks them. This is a personal trust in the living God through the living Christ.

5. Why is belief placed before duty?

This is the order of Scripture. The Christian is saved by grace through faith and is created unto good works. The foundation of the faith, “I am the Lord your God” is presented in the Law before God presents His people with the Commandments. What we believe is important in order that we might do what is well-pleasing in the sight of God. Alexander Whyte says, “An orthodox faith and an obedient life is the whole duty of man.”

6. Could there be any significance in the fact that both the Larger and Shorter Catechisms have this same question?

Yes. True happiness for man comes only when he recognizes three important teachings of the Bible: First, that he is a lost sinner. Second, that Jesus Christ is his Redeemer from sin. Third, that he is to live a holy life based upon the revealed will of God, the Scriptures.

Answer:

God is a Spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable, in his being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness and truth.

Scripture References:

John 4:24
Malachi 3:6
Psalm 147:5
Revelation 19:6
Isaiah 57:15
Deuteronomy 32:4
Romans 2:4
Psalm 117:2

Questions:

1. Why is this question so fundamental for the soul of man?

It is essential for Hebrews 11:6 states, “anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists.” If man can accept the first words of Scripture, “In the beginning, God...” he is on the right road, for this is a truth upon which all other truths depend.

2. How can we accept and know this basic truth?

Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, reveals God to us and it is only through Christ that we come to God. The Bible says, “No-one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father’s side, has made him known.” (John 1:18). “Jesus answered, I am the way and the truth and the life. No-one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)

3. In the light of the answer to Question Number Four, with what attitude should we approach God?

We should approach Him as the Almighty, Sovereign God. In the front of a particular church, in plain sight of the congregation there was a sign: “Know Whom Before You Stand!” We should always approach Him in our thoughts, words and deeds with the recognition that He is all that the answer to this question proclaims Him to be.

4. What is meant by the statement, “God is a Spirit?”

The meaning is that He is invisible, without body or bodily parts, not like a man or any other creature. (From Minutes of Session of Westminster Assembly).

5. In theology what term do we use in regard to the adjectives used to describe God?

We call these the attributes of God and separate them into His incommunicable and communicable attributes.

6. Why do we separate them in this way?

We separate them in this way because His incommunicable attributes are not found in any way in his creatures. These are His infinity, eternity and unchangeableness. His communicable attributes (being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness and truth), are found in some degree in man. Obviously, in man, these attributes are faint, limited and imperfect as compared with God.

Answer:

There is but one only, the living and true God.

Scripture References:

Deuteronomy 6:4
Jeremiah 10:10

Questions:

1. What proofs can we offer that there is only one true and living God?

We can offer proof from Scripture as it says, “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.” (Deut. 6:4) We can offer proof from reason since there can be only one first cause and ultimate end of all things. Scripture is logical when it states as the first verse: “In the beginning, God...” Many have called this one of the most important verses of the Bible.

2. Why not begin our study of God with the Trinity?

We begin with God since this is the method the Scripture uses. The Bible presents first the truth of the one true and living God and then proceeds to unfold the mystery of the Trinity.

3. What does it mean when it says “one only” in this Question?

The teaching here does not deny the fact of the Trinity or the deity of Christ or the Holy Spirit. It rather points out that absolutely none other person or being shares the attributes of the “one only” true God. He cannot be compared to anything else in the entire universe, all of which He alone created and governs.

4. What may we learn from this truth?

We may learn to recognise Him as Almighty and Sovereign. Our attention is thereby called to the fact that there is only One Supreme Being, Maker, Designer and Lawgiver of the world and that He is the only One.

5. What do we call the doctrine of one God?

This teaching is called “Monotheism” in opposition to Polytheism“, the teaching that there are many gods. The pagan world is Polytheistic. In contrast to this, Paul says, ” we know than an idol is nothing at all in the world and that there is no God but one." (1 Cor. 8:4b)

6. What is the meaning of the word “living” in this Question?

The word “living” emphasises that He alone has life in Himself and is therefore the Fountain of life to all His creatures. Dr. William Childs Robinson points out that “He calls Himself the LIVING God. Our Lord Jesus speaks of God as the LIVING Father, Peter confesses the Saviour as the Son of the LIVING God, Paul calls the Church the Church of the LIVING God and believers the children of the LIVING God.” He further states that “He has life in and of Himself and He gives life to everything else.”

Answer:

There are three persons in the Godhead: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; and these three are one God, the same in substance, equal in power and glory.

Scripture References:

2 Corinthians 13:14
Matthew 28:19
Matthew 3:16, 17
John 17:5, 24

Questions:

1. Why has this doctrine given rise to opposition during the history of the Church?

The devil recognises that since the Trinity is a mystery which human reason cannot explain, and since it is the primary object of our faith and worship, it is fertile ground for use as a stumbling block.

2. How important is this doctrine to our faith?

It is essential and vital. Without this doctrine we would not know of the love of the Father, the merit of the Son and the sanctifying influence of the Holy Spirit in the purchase and application of redemption.

3. What is meant by the word “Godhead” in this question?

It means the divine nature that is possessed by all three persons.

4. What denomination denies the doctrine of the Trinity?

The Unitarians deny this doctrine. They teach that there is only one person in the Godhead, the Father, and deny the true deity of Christ and the Holy Spirit.

5. How can one prove that there are three persons in the Godhead?

This can be proved by many teachings in Scripture. It can be proved from the baptismal formula; from the baptism of Christ; from the blessing given by Paul in 2 Cor. 13:14; from John’s salutation to the seven churches; from the different tasks attributed to the three persons.

6. Could you give an example of these different tasks?

Yes, 1 Peter 1:2 gives an example of their different tasks in the work of redemption. It speaks of the Father’s foreknowledge, the Son’s death for His people, and the Spirit’s task of sanctification.

7. How is it that all three could be one God?

The doctrine teaches that “God is One in one sense, and Three in a different sense. He is One is substance and Three in persons.” (J.G.Vos). The Scriptures assert that the Son and the Holy Ghost are God and are equal with the Father. True, this mystery is difficult to understand. But we now believe it by means of the Word of God and can look forward to enjoy the perfect knowledge of it in heaven.

8. How can we best state the doctrine in simple terms?

One of the best statements is: “There is but one God, the Father and the Son and the Spirit is each God, and the Father and the Son and the Spirit is each a distinct Person ...” (Dr. L. Boettner).

Answer:

The decrees of God are his eternal purpose, according to the counsel of his will, whereby, for his own glory, he hath foreordained whatsoever comes to pass.

Scripture References:

Ephesians 1:4, 11
Romans 9:23
Acts 4:27, 28
Psalm 33:11

Questions:

1. What is the nature of God’s decrees?

God’s decrees are unchangeable; they cannot be changed, therefore they are certain to be fulfilled. His decrees are eternal, being settled by God in eternity.

2. Are there more than one decree?

No, there is only one single decree. However, this decree includes many particulars and therefore we speak of it in the plural.

3. When one uses the word “decree” is it not usually synonymous with an arbitrariness?

When man uses the word such may be true but not when God uses it. God’s decrees should not be classed in this way since they were framed by Him according to the counsel of his will. You must look behind the decree and see there the love of an infinite, personal God, whose all comprehensive plan is also all wise.

4. What is the purpose of God’s decrees?

The purpose is His own glory first and through this, the good of the elect.

5. Who are the special objects of God’s decrees and what is His decree towards them?

Angels and men are the special objects and His decree toward them is predestination.

6. What is meant by predestination?

Predestination is the plan or purpose of God respecting His moral creatures. It is divided into election and reprobation.

7. What is the definition of election and reprobation?

Election is God’s eternal purpose to save some of the human race in and by Jesus Christ. Reprobation is God’s eternal purpose to pass some men by with the operation of His special grace and to punish them for their sin.

8. If reprobation be true, how can God be just?

God would be just in condemning all to eternal punishment since all have sinned. He is in charge; He is the potter and our attitude should be one of thankfulness if we are of the elect by His grace. Man has no claim on God and God does not owe man eternal salvation or anything else.

Answer:

God executeth his decrees in the works of creation and providence.

Scripture References:

Revelation 4:11
Ephesians 1:11
Isaiah 46:10
Mark 13:31

Questions:

1. To what can we compare the decrees of God to enable us to better understand them?

“We compare the decrees of God to the plans an architect draws for a great building. If most of us saw the blue-prints for this building we could not imagine what the building would look like... But when the building was all complete then we would see what was in the architect’s mind and what was the meaning of his blue-prints. So we cannot read God’s mind except by what He has said and done and by what He is doing.” (The Christian Faith According to the Shorter Catechism, by Dr. Wm. Childs Robinson, Pgs. 12-13).

2. What is the meaning of God executing His decrees?

The meaning is God bringing His will to pass, doing what He purposed from all eternity.

3. Is it possible for the decrees of God to fail?

It is not possible. No man can stay the hand of God or question what He is doing. (Daniel 4:35)

4. Where does redemption fit in the division of His decrees?

Redemption comes to pass in His providence as His majestic gift to some men through Jesus Christ.

5. What is the difference between His works of creation and providence?

Creation is His work of making all things out of nothing by the word of his power. Providence is His work of constant support and control of the universe and all that is in it.

6. What can be learned from the execution of God’s decrees?

Two verses are suggested to teach us great lessons: (1) Revelation 4:11 - the fact that He created all things for His own glory and therefore we should attribute to Him the glory, honour and power. (2) Hebrews 1:3 - the fact that He is upholding all things by His power and therefore our complete sense of security is in Him.

Answer:

The work of creation is God’s making all things of nothing, by the word of his power, in the space of six days, and all very good.

Scripture References:

Hebrews 11:3
Revelation 4:11
Genesis 1:1-31
Psalm 33:6
John 1:3

Questions:

1. Why is it important to study the doctrine of creation?

The work of creation is the basis of all revelation. It has been well said that if a person can accept “In the beginning God...” it will be possible for him to accept the rest of the Bible by faith.

2. How can we know that the first verse of the Bible is true?

“By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command...” (Heb. 11:3). We start with the Biblical point of view that God is sovereign and creation is a basic doctrine.

3. Why did God create the world?

He created it for His own pleasure, for His glory. It was a free act of God and He did not need the world, but rather He existed in complete self-sufficiency prior to its creation.

4. From what did God make the world?

God created the world out of nothing. Bavinck states in “Our Reasonable Faith”: “The expression ‘out of nothing’ can be taken in a useable sense and can perform excellent service over against all kinds of heresy. For it denies that the world was made out of some stuff or matter or energy which co-existed eternally alongside of God. According to Scripture, God is not solely He who formed the world but also He who created it.” (Pgs. 166-167)

5. How can we know there was no pre-existing material?

The Bible does not mention any pre-existing matter, and it also states that God created everything that has ever been. (Neh. 9:6, Col. 1:16)

6. How long did it take God to create the world?

The Bible states it took God six days.

7. What is the order of God’s creation?

The order of God’s creation is: First Day, Light; Second Day, Firmament; Third Day, Dry Land, Grass; Fourth Day, Sun and Moon; Fifth Day, Fish and Fowl; Sixth Day, Land Animals and Man. God created the world and all creatures in six days and rested on the Sabbath day to hallow it for Himself and His children.

Answer:

God created man male and female, after his own image, in knowledge, righteousness, and holiness, with dominion over the creatures.

Scripture References:

Genesis 1:27
Colossians 3:10
Ephesians 4:24
Genesis 1:28

Questions:

1. What is the difference between the creation of other creatures and the creation of man?

God simply commanded the other creatures into existence; but when man was created the Trinity decided that man should be made in the image of God.

2. Why is this difference important?

It is important as man is God’s only self-conscious creature that He has created. God made man in his mental and moral image. Dr. Albertus Pieters says, “It involves self-conscious reasoning power, the capacity for self-determination, and moral sense. In other words, to be a being that can say, ‘I am, I ought, I will,’ - this it is to be made in the image of God.”

3. Why did God create man?

Man was created by God that man should serve his Creator. God does not exist for man’s sake but man exists for God’s sake, to serve and to glorify Him forever.

4. What kind of knowledge, righteousness and holiness did man have at his creation?

Man’s knowledge was a perfect knowledge of God, of his duty and of many other things for which we probably strive today. Man’s righteousness was an inherent righteousness which enabled God to declare him as “very good.” Man’s holiness was the hidden root of his righteousness that was shining forth in his heart.

5. What sort of dominion did man have over the creatures?

God made man head of the world. He was given the right to reign over the creatures and name them. He was to rule them for God’s glory and his own good.

6. Is the theory of Theistic evolution consistent with the teaching of Scipture?

No. Theistic Evolution (Evolution as God’s method of Creation) is not consistent with the Scripture.

The position of the Bible could be outlined in this way:

1. The Bible says God created out of nothing and this creation included every thing which has or will or can exist. It all owes its being and substance as well as its form to God. Though this is bewildering to man, it is absolutely necessary if we are to hold to the Christian faith.

2. The Bible says that God is eternal, not that matter is eternal as would be necessary for any theory of evolution.

3. The Bible says man came into existence by a special creative act of a free, self-determined will.

Answer:

God’s works of providence are, his most holy, wise, and powerful preserving and governing all his creatures, and all their actions.

Scripture References:

Psalm 145:17
Psalm 104:24
Hebrews 1:3
Psalm 103:19
Matthew 10:29, 30

Questions:

1. What is the meaning of the word “providence?”

The meaning of the word providence is that of care, the ability to forsee what is coming and to make provision for it.

2. What are the parts of God’s providence?

The parts of God’s providence are: 1. His preservation of things (Psalm 36:6). 2. His government of things (Psalm 67:4).

3. How do creation and providence differ?

Dr. Charles Hodge states, “Creation, preservation, and government are in fact different, and to identify them leads not only to confusion but to error. Creation and preservation differ - first, as the former is the calling into existence of what did not exist, and the latter is continuing, or causing to continue, what already has a beginning; and secondly, in creation there is and can be no co-operation, but in preservation there is a concursus (harmonious co-operation) of the first, with second causes. In the Bible, therefore, the two things are never confounded. God created all things, and by Him all things consist.” (Systematic Theology, Vol. 1, Pg. 578).

4. To what does God’s providence extend?

1. All His creatures, especially His children. 2. The actions of His creatures.

5. Does His providence extend to all the actions of His creatures?

Yes, it extends to all actions. To hold otherwise would be to say that the creatures would be independent in their actions and then God would not be the first cause of all things.

6. If providence includes all actions of men, does this mean the sinful actions as well as the good actions?

Yes, even the sinful actions of men are controlled by God’s providence but this does not make Him responsible for their actions. God permits men to sin (Acts 14:16). God limits and restrains men in their sins (Psalm 76:10). God directs and disposes men’s sins to good ends, beyond their own intentions (Isaiah 10:5-7).

7. What is the purpose of God’s providence?

The purpose of God’s providence is the manifesting of God’s own glory.

Answer:

When God had created man, he entered into a covenant of life with him, upon condition of perfect obedience; forbidding him to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, upon pain of death.

Scripture References:

Compare Genesis 2:16, 17 with Romans 5:12-14; Romans 10:5; Luke 10:25-28, and with the covenants made with Noah and Abraham. Genesis 2:17

Questions:

1. What is a covenant?

A covenant is a bond in blood, sovereignly administered. When God enters into a covenantal relationship with men, he sovereignly institutes a life-and-death bond. A covenant is a bond in blood, or a bond of life and death, sovereignly administered.

2. Why was it called the Covenant of Life?

It was called the Covenant of Life because it was a plan by which the human race could achieve eternal life by works, that is, by perfect obedience to the will of God.

3. Who were the parties in the Covenant of Life?

The parties were God, who established the covenant, and Adam, the head and representative of the entire human race.

4. Why did God forbid Adam and Eve to eat of the fruit of the tree?

He forbade them because this was a test of obedience to the will of God. The fruit was good in itself but to partake of it was contrary to God’s commandment.

5. What was the promise and penalty attached to the Covenant of Life?

The promise was life everlasting and the penalty temporal, spiritual and eternal death.

6. What may we learn from this doctrine of the Covenant of Life?

We are taught that eternal death came by the breaking of the Covenant of Life by the first Adam and that eternal life comes only by fulfilling the same covenant by the second Adam (Romans 5:19). Adam was our representative in the Covenant of Life; Jesus Christ is our representative in the Covenant of Grace.

Answer:

Our first parents, being left to the freedom of their own will, fell from the estate wherein they were created, by sinning against God.

Scripture References:

Genesis 3:6-8, 13
Ecclesiastes 7:29
2 Corinthians 11:3
Psalm 5:4

Questions:

1. What was the “estate” in which man was created?

The estate was innocence, the state in which God had placed man and in which he had pure fellowship with God.

2. What is meant by the freedom of the will?

The freedom of the will was a liberty to choose or refuse of its own accord, without any constraint or force from anyone.

3. Were our first parents able to follow the way of perfect obedience unto God?

Yes, they had perfect knowledge and were holy in their hearts for God had made them in this way.

4. How was it then possible for man to sin?

It was possible because at creation man had a freedom both to good and evil. His natural disposition was to good but because he was a mutable (subject to change) creature he, through temptation, submitted himself to evil.

5. What is man’s state today in regard to freedom of will?

A distinction must be made as to the type of man. Unregenerate man “by his fall into a state of sin, hath wholly lost all ability of will to any spiritual good accompanying salvation” so that he can neither “convert himself, nor prepare himself thereunto.” (Con. Of Faith, IX, 3). Regenerated man, by God’s grace, has the freedom to do that which is spiritually good, but he does not do it perfectly for he is sometimes inclined toward evil. (Romans 7:15, 19, 21).

6. Who was responsible for the first sin?

Man was responsible for he freely yielded to the temptation of the devil. When our first parents wilfully chose to obey the word of Satan rather than the word of God, they were guilty of sinning against God. Man had been put on trial, the trial of simple obedience, but man failed the test.

It should be recognised that God is not the cause of sin. This can be proven from the testimony of Scripture, (Genesis 1:31. Psalm 5:4). This can also be proven by the facts taught by Scripture that God is perfectly good and holy and that God punished all sin severely. The fall of Adam is the efficient cause of original sin both in himself and in his posterity.

Answer:

Sin is any want of conformity unto, or transgression of, the law of God.

Scripture References:

1 John 3:4
James 4:17
Romans 3:23
Romans 2:15

Questions:

1. What is the Law of God and where is it to be found?

The Law of God is the commandments God has given for man’s rule of obedience. The Law of God is found written in the Word of God though there was a copy of it on the heart of man in his innocence before the fall. The Word teaches that some part of it is still written on the hearts of men, but to a great extent the knowledge of this Law has become marred or obliterated.

2. How does man show want of conformity unto the Law of God?

By not doing all the things written in the Book of the Law (Galatians 3:10).

3. What sins are included in lack of conformity unto the Law of God?

The sins included are (1) Original sin and that natural enmity in the heart against the Law of God. (2) All sins of omission and commission.

4. How can one prove that transgression of the law is sin?

The Bible teaches this in 1 John 3:4 “Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness.”

5. Are all the laws mentioned in the Old Testament to be kept today?

No, not all the laws of the Old Testament are to be kept. The ceremonial law is no longer binding since Christ came in the flesh, and many of the judicial laws - as they had reference to the state of the Jewish nation - are laid aside. But the moral law is binding on all mankind (Psalm 119:160).

6. Could you answer the question “What is sin?” in simple language?

Dr. William Childs Robinson states: “Sin is stepping across one of God’s commandments.” It is not simply a wrong done to one’s fellow man, but it includes both guilt and pollution. Sin involves not only outward acts, but the thoughts, affections and intents of the heart as well.

Answer:

The sin whereby our first parents fell from the estate wherein they were created, was their eating the forbidden fruit.

Scripture References:

Genesis 3:6
2 Corinthians 11:3
Psalm 49:12

Questions:

1. Why did God forbid our first parents to eat this fruit?

He forbade them because He was making a test of their obedience. It was not that the fruit had in itself any evil. It was God’s method of seeing whether or not they recognised His Lordship over them.

2. Were our first parents guilty of sin before they tasted of the fruit?

Yes, they were guilty of listening to the devil. But when they tasted of the fruit they completed the act of sin.

3. Where was the first sin committed?

The first sin was committed in Paradise where God had placed man and created woman.

4. Was Adam deceived in this first sin?

The Bible tells us that he was not deceived. Probably his love for Eve motivated him to join her in this transgression. But he suffered the consequence of this sin just the same and betrayed the whole human race whose representative he was.

5. What was involved in the eating of the forbidden fruit?

There were many sins involved in this act of disobedience. By eating they rebelled against their Sovereign God. By eating they were guilty of treason as they were in league with the devil. By eating they were gratifying ambition, to be as God. By eating they were guilty of unbelief because God had said it was wrong. By eating they were bringing death upon themselves and all their posterity.

6. If one word had to be used in describing this first sin, what word would be best?

Probably the word ‘pride’ would come closer to describing it than any other word. Calvin states, “Augustine is more correct, who says that pride was the beginning of all evils, and that by pride the human race was ruined... ”

Answer:

The covenant being made with Adam, not only for himself, but for his posterity, all mankind, descending from him by ordinary generation, sinned in him, and fell with him in his first transgression.

Scripture References:

Acts 17:26
Genesis 2:17
Romans 5:12
1 Corinthians 15:21

Questions:

1. How many persons do we read of in Scripture that represent the human race?

We read of two who represent the human race. The first Adam and the second, Jesus Christ. (1 Cor. 15:45)

2. What reason is given in Scripture that the posterity of Adam fell with Adam?

The reason is found in the covenant of life, in which life was promised upon condition of obedience, and was made with Adam. This was made not only for Adam but for his posterity.

3. Since the covenant was a covenant of life, does this mean that Adam could merit eternal life?

No, it does not mean that Adam could merit eternal life. It was still God’s grace that would give eternal life, but a grace that would reward obedience.

4. Was it fair that Adam should represent his posterity?

Yes, it was fair since he was to be the common parent of all mankind, was created perfectly holy, with full power to fulfil the condition of the covenant.

5. How could all mankind be in Adam when he first sinned?

All mankind was in Adam in two ways: 1. Virtually, as a natural root, and, 2. Representatively, as a covenant head.

6. What is meant by saying “all mankind, descending from him by ordinary generation, sinned in him?”

The phrase “ordinary generation” is used to exclude Christ who descended as to his human body from Adam, but not by ordinary generation since he was conceived in the womb of a virgin by the power of the Almighty God overshadowing her.

7. I have always heard, “In Adam’s fall we sinned all.” Is this a good commentary on this question?

This is an excellent commentary. It should be understood by it that we are sinners first of all because Adam, our representative, sinned for us. Our corrupted nature is the result of our inheritance in Adam.

Answer:

The fall brought mankind into an estate of sin and misery.

Scripture References:

Romans 5:12
Galatians 3:10
Psalm 40:2
Romans 6:23

Questions:

1. What do we call the estate of mankind before the fall?

The estate of mankind before the fall is called the estate of innocency, the estate of original righteousness.

2. Why is man’s state, by the fall, called an estate of sin?

Because man is now under the guilt of sin, which has dominion over him.

3. Why is man’s state, by the fall, called an estate of misery?

Because, according to the penalty of the law, death and the curse involve him in all manner of misery.

4. Why is sin mentioned before misery in describing the estate into which mankind fell?

Because sin came first, and misery followed afterwards as the result of sin. Sin is the cause of misery; misery is the effect of sin.

5. How did man come into this state of sin and misery?

Man came into this by the abuse of his free will, by disobedience. The scripture tells us that mankind destroyed himself. (Hosea 13:9).

6. What happened to man in the Garden because of his sin?

Man’s heart was changed and man’s abode changed. The heart became evil and man was forced to leave the place of perfection (the Garden) and was cast into the world where evil was.

7. How does the Scripture describe man’s state of sin and misery?

Scripture describes it by “darkness”, “condemnation and wrath”, and by “death”.

8. What popular false religion of this day denies the teaching of sin and misery?

The religion of Christian Science denies the reality of sin and misery.

9. Can man help himself out of this state of sin and misery?

No. Man is totally unable to help himself out of this state. His very nature is “enmity against God” and he can not save himself from this state.

Answer:

The sinfulness of that estate wherein man fell, consists in the guilt of Adam’s first sin, the want of original righteousness, and the corruption of his whole nature, which is commonly called original sin; together with all actual transgressions which proceed from it.

Scripture References:

Romans 5:12, 19
1 Corinthians 15:22
Romans 5:6
Ephesians 2:1-3
James 1:14, 15

Questions:

1. What is original sin?

A better way of expressing this would be “inherited sin”. This sin is the guilt and pollution connected with our origin, in and through the first Adam.

2. Is there not another type of sin besides original sin?

Yes, there is actual sin. This is any breach of God’s law, whether it be by omission or commission, whether it be by thought, word or deed.

3. How are all men guilty because of Adam’s first sin?

All men are guilty of Adam’s first sin by imputation, (Rom. 5:19). This is so because Adam represented his posterity, as we learned in Question 16. As the righteousness of Christ, the second Adam, is imputed to all believers, so the sin of the first Adam is imputed to all the natural seed.

4. What is meant by the “guilt of Adam’s first sin”?

It means the debt, the punishment to which we are exposed because of that first sin, committed by our head and representative, Adam.

5. What is the teaching involved in “the want of original righteousness”?

The teaching here is that two things are involved: (a) The lack of true spiritual understanding in the mind (1 Corinthians 2:14). (b) The lack of the power and inclination toward good (Romans 7:18).

6. What is included in the statement “the corruption of his whole nature”?

Included in this statement is the universal depravity present in every part of man since the fall. Calvin states, “Therefore all of us, who have descended from impure seed, are born infected with the contagion of sin. In fact, before we saw the light of this life we were soiled and spotted in God’s sight.” (Institutes, II, 1,5).

Answer:

All mankind, by their fall, lost communion with God, are under his wrath and curse, and so made liable to all miseries in this life, to death itself, and to the pains of hell forever.

Scripture References:

Genesis 3:8,24
Ephesians 2:3
Romans 5:14
Romans 6:23

Questions:

1. Of what does man’s misery in the fall consist?

It consists of three things: (a) What man has lost. (b) What man is brought under. (c) What man is liable to.

2. What was the communion with God lost by man because of the fall?

This communion was the presence and favour of God, together with the sweet fellowship and enjoyment of God in the garden of Eden.

3. Does this loss of communion with God extend to this day as far as man is concerned?

Yes, it extends to today. Mankind comes into the world today alienated from God. Mankind lives today alienated from God unless he comes to know God through faith in Jesus Christ.

4. What is man brought under by the fall?

Man is brought under God’s wrath and curse by the fall and this is a great misery. The favour of God is better for man than life itself. Man is wretched and miserable without fellowship with God.

5. Are the miseries in this life external or internal as a result of the fall?

The miseries are both external and internal. Such things as calamities, sickness, losses of homes, jobs, families are all external miseries that could result from the fall. The internal miseries that result from the fall are such things as living under the domination of Satan, the spiritual blindness of mind and hardness of heart, vile affections, perplexities and distresses of the mind.

6. What is the punishment which man is liable to by the fall?

The punishment is death itself at the end of his life. This punishment could be simply physical if a man was born again by the Spirit of God. This punishment could be eternal - an eternity in hell - if man is not born again.

Answer:

God having, out of his mere good pleasure, from all eternity, elected some to everlasting life, did enter into a covenant of grace, to deliver them out of the estate of sin and misery, and to bring them into the estate of salvation by a Redeemer.

Scripture References:

Ephesians 1:4-7
Titus 3:4-7
Titus 1:2
Galatians 3:21
Romans 3:20-22

Questions:

1. Whom does God bring into a state of salvation?

God brings all his elect people into an estate of salvation to which he has chosen them.

2. Who are the elect people of God?

The elect people of God are those whom He has chosen to eternal life, chosen from all eternity out of His good pleasure.

3. What do we mean when we use the term “out of His good pleasure?”

We mean that even though man is lost and fallen, deserving nothing from God, it was God’s good pleasure to make provision for some men in what is called the covenant of grace.

4. How does God bring His elect into an estate of salvation?

God brings His elect to salvation by a Redeemer, (Acts 4:12).

5. What is the covenant of grace?

It is a covenant of eternal life and salvation to sinners, to be given them in a way of free grace and mercy. It is an arrangement between God and His elect.

6. Are there conditions to the covenant of grace?

Yes, there is a condition. The condition is faith, by which the elect have an active interest in Jesus Christ, (John 3:16, Acts 16:31).

7. What is the promise inferred in the covenant of Grace?

The promise is that God will cause His Holy Spirit to dwell in the elect and to work in them, creating the faith and virtue that He desires. In other words, what God requires, He gives. (J.B. Green)

Answer:

The only Redeemer of God’s elect is the Lord Jesus Christ, who, being the eternal Son of God, became man, and so was, and continueth to be, God and man, in two distinct natures, and one person forever.

Scripture References:

1 Timothy 2:5
John 1:1, 14
John 10:30
Philippians 2:6
Galatians 4:4
Philippians 2:5-11

Questions:

1. Why is the Redeemer of God’s elect called the Lord Jesus Christ?

He is called the Lord because of His sovereignty and dominion (Acts 10:36). He is called Jesus because He is the Saviour of His people (Matthew 1:21). He is called Christ because He is anointed by the Father with the Holy Ghost which was given to Him without measure (Acts 10:38). He is fully qualified by God.

2. How does the Lord Jesus Christ redeem the elect of God?

He purchases them by His blood and rescues them by His conquest by spoiling principalities and powers. (1 Peter 1:18,19. Colossians 2:15)

3. What did the Lord Jesus Christ become in order to redeem God’s elect?

He became man but did not cease to be God. He became Immanuel, God with us.

4. Why was it necessary that He become man?

It was necessary in order that He might be capable of suffering death for man and that He might become their High Priest that could reconcile them to God (Hebrews 8:16, 17).

5. How could Christ be both God and man?

Christ is God and man by a personal union. Both His natures are distinct, the divine nature is not subject to change and the human nature is not omnipotent.

6. Could some compact statements be given regarding the constitution of the Redeemer’s person?

J.B. Green has probably put it in the most concise way: “1. The reality of the two natures. 2. The integrity of the new natures. 3. The distinctness of the two natures after the union. 4. The oneness of the personality.”

Answer:

Christ, the Son of God, became man, by taking to himself a true body and a reasonable soul, being conceived by the power of the Holy Ghost, in the womb of the Virgin Mary, and born of her, yet without sin.

Scripture References:

John 1:14
Luke 1:31, 35, 41, 42
Hebrews 2:14
Matthew 26:38
Galatians 4:4
Hebrews 4:15
Hebrews 7:26

Questions:

1. Was Christ’s birth a voluntary act of Christ?

Yes, it was a voluntary act. He took upon himself the human nature so that he might be fitted to be our Redeemer.

2. Did he assume the nature of a real man?

Yes, he assumed the nature of a real man. He had the two essential parts of a man, possessing a real body of flesh and blood and bones and that of possessing a soul.

3. How can we prove that he had a real body?

The Bible tells us that he is called “Man”. He was subject to hunger, weariness and thirst like other men. He was also crucified, dead and buried and rose again in his body. Luke 24:39 teaches that his was a body, not just mere spirit.

4. How can we prove that he had a soul, a reasonable soul?

The Bible tells us that he had such and that his divine nature did not take the place of, or supply the place of, a soul. Matthew 26:38 teaches that his “soul was overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death.”

5. Was the birth of Christ like the birth of other men?

No, his birth came about by the miraculous power of the Holy Ghost in the womb of the Virgin Mary.

6. Why was Christ born of a virgin?

Christ was born of a virgin in order that he might be conceived and born without sin, that he might be free of the original sin which was passed on to all Adam’s posterity by natural generation.

7. Is it really important that we believe Christ was born of a virgin?

Yes, this is very important. Dr. Benjamin B. Warfield answers these important questions regarding the virgin birth when he says, “It is only in its relation to the New Testament doctrine of redemption that the necessity of the virgin birth of Jesus comes to its full manifestation. For in this Christianity the redemption that is provided is distinctly redemption from sin; and that He might redeem men from sin it certainly was imperative that the Redeemer Himself should not be involved in sin.” Could it be stated in a clearer fashion that the redemptive work of Christ depends upon His virgin birth?

Answer:

Christ, as our Redeemer, executeth the offices of a prophet, of a priest, and of a king, both in his estate of humiliation and exaltation.

Scripture References:

Acts 3:22
Luke 4:18-21
Hebrews 5:5-6
Hebrews 4:14-15
Revelation 19:16
Isaiah 9:6-7
Psalm 2:6

Questions:

1. What do we mean by the term “office”?

The word “office” comes from the Latin “officium” and means any special duty or trust or charge laid upon or taken up by one person to perform for another. It is interesting to note that the term is never used to indicate what a person does for himself but is always implying what a man does for another. It is a term that is not used in Scripture, but is a Theological term used in our Standards.

2. What does it mean to “execute” an office?

To execute an office is to do or perform all that belongs to the office.

3. Was Jesus Christ ordained or appointed to these offices?

Yes, Christ was ordained to these offices from all eternity.

(1 Peter 1:20)

4. Why was it necessary for Christ to take upon Himself these three offices?

It was necessary for our salvation. Our salvation was revealed by Him as a Prophet; purchased by Him as a Priest; and applied by Him as a King. A wonderful way of putting this was the way used by the Rev. John R Mackay of the Free Church of Scotland as quoted by Dr. William Childs Robinson: “When I looked into my own heart I could see nothing but darkness, guilt and pride. But then I remembered that Christ is a Prophet who can dispel my darkness. Christ is a Priest who can remove my guilt. Christ is a King who can humble my pride.”

5. Is there anyone else in Scripture that had all three of these offices?

No, no one in Scripture had all three but Christ, not even those who were typical of Him in the Old Testament.

6. In what ways does Christ execute these offices?

He executes these offices in His state of humiliation here on earth and continues to do so in His state of exaltation now in heaven.

Answer:

Christ executeth the office of a prophet, in revealing to us, by his word and Spirit, the will of God for our salvation.

Scripture References:

John 1:1-4
John 15:15
John 20:31
2 Peter 1:21
John 14:26

Questions:

1. Is Christ called a “prophet” in Scripture and if so, why?

He is called a prophet in Acts 3:22. He is called a prophet because He has made a full revelation of the whole counsel of God.

2. How does Christ reveal to us the will of God?

He reveals God’s will to us in two ways: outwardly, by His Word and inwardly, by His Spirit.

3. What is the word of Christ?

The word of Christ is the whole Bible, the Scripture, containing the Old and New Testaments.

4. How can it be that the whole Scripture is the word of Christ since His words constitute only a small portion of it?

The whole Bible is called the word of Christ because those who wrote it wrote the word they had from the Spirit of Christ (1 Peter 1:10-11).

5. Is it possible to be saved simply by means of the Word of God without the Spirit?

No, it is not possible to be saved simply through the Word apart from the Spirit. The teaching concerning this is found in 1 Corinthians 2:14.

6. Is it possible to be saved by the Spirit apart from the Word?

There is a difference here from the previous question in that the Word cannot save you apart from the Spirit and the Spirit will not save you apart from the Word. The Bible teaches that the whole will of God necessary to our salvation is revealed in His Word.

7. How does the Spirit of Christ make us wise unto salvation?

The Spirit of Christ makes us wise unto salvation by opening up our understandings, for the entrance of His word gives us light so that the soul is enabled to see the way of salvation and the way offered.

Answer:

Christ executeth the office of a priest, in his once offering up of himself a sacrifice to satisfy divine justice, and reconcile us to God, and in making continual intercession for us.

Scripture References:

Hebrews 9:14, 28
Romans 3:25
Romans 10:4
Hebrews 2:17
Hebrews 7:25

Questions:

1. What did Christ do for us as the first part of his office as a priest?

The first part of Christ’s priestly office was the offering up a sacrifice to God for us. The sacrifice was Himself, the shedding of blood unto death.

2. What is a sacrifice?

A sacrifice is a holy offering rendered to God by a priest of God’s appointment.

3. Did Christ offer a sacrifice of Himself more than once?

No, he offered Himself a sacrifice only one time, and this was sufficient for the sins of His people. (Hebrews 9:38)

4. Why did Christ offer Himself as a sacrifice for us?

Christ offered Himself as a sacrifice for us that he might satisfy God’s justice for us and that he might reconcile us to God.

5. When the word “us” is used in the above question, of whom is it speaking?

It is speaking of the elect, not of all mankind. (John 10:15)

6. How did Christ’s sacrifice satisfy God’s justice?

It is so for this sacrifice was accepted by God and was worthy of acceptance.

7. What does Christ do for us as the second part of his office as a priest?

The second part of Christ’s priestly office is his making intercession for us. (Isaiah 43:12)

8. Where is the intercession made and what does He do for us in this intercession?

The intercession is made at the right hand of God. By it He prays to and pleads to God for us; because of it our sins are pardoned, our prayers are answered and we are actually reconciled. It should be remembered that He is the only intercessor in heaven for us.

Answer:

Christ executeth the office of a king, in subduing us to himself, in ruling and defending us, and in restraining and conquering all his and our enemies.

Scripture References:

Psalm 110:3
Isaiah 33:22
1 Corinthians 15:25
Acts 12:17
Acts 18:9, 10

Questions:

1. Does the Bible teach that Jesus Christ is a King?

Yes, the Bible teaches it in Psalm 2:6 and again in John 18:36.

2. When was Jesus Christ made a King?

He was made a King even from the very beginning. He was proclaimed as a King at His birth and again at His death.

3. How does Christ exercise His Kingship?

He exercises it in two ways: (1) Over His elect people (John 1:49). (2) Over His enemies and the enemies of His elect people (Psalm 110:2).

4. How does Christ exercise His Kingship over His elect people?

He exercises it by subduing them to Himself. He does this through the power of the Spirit in the Word so that He makes them willing to embrace the Saviour. He finds them as stubborn and disobedient and rebellious but He calls them unto Himself.

5. How does Christ exercise His Kingship by ruling His elect people?

He exercises it by ruling inwardly by His Spirit, by working in them the disposition of obedience unto Him.

6. What change does this make as to the people’s relationship with the Word?

The change is that though they are still in the world they are not really of the world but are members of Christ’s invisible kingdom. This also means that the world will hate them.

7. How does Christ exercise His Kingship over His enemies and the enemies of His elect people?

He exercises His Kingship by defending His people; by restraining and conquering all His and their enemies (by setting bounds and limits on them); by conquering them.

Answer:

Christ’s humiliation consisted in his being born, and that in a low condition, made under the law, undergoing the miseries of this life, the wrath of God, and the cursed death of the cross, in being buried and continuing under the power of death for a time.

Scripture References:

Luke 2:7
Philippians 2:6-8
Galatians4:4
Isaiah 53:6
Matthew 27:46
Galatians 3:13
1 Corinthians 15:3, 4

Questions:

1. In what things did Christ humble himself?

Christ humbled himself in His birth, in His life and in His death.

2. How did Christ humble Himself in His birth?

Christ humbled himself in His birth in that he was born of a virgin in a manger, becoming man who was the eternal Son of God.

3. How did Christ humble Himself in His life?

Christ humbled himself in His life by subjecting Himself to the law; because he entered into conflict with the devil; because He endured the slander of men who were wicked; because He endured the infirmities of the flesh even those endured by all men.

4. How did Christ humble Himself in His death?

Christ humbled himself in His death by submitting himself to the cursed death of the cross (Galatians 3:13) and undergoing the agony described in the Scripture as happening to Him.

5. What does Christ’s humiliation mean to us as Christians?

Christ’s humiliation assured us of our redemption, through the merits of His sufferings. (Ephesians 1:7)

6. Was the soul or body of Christ separated from Him during His death?

No, his soul or body could not be separated from him since he was divine and the Scripture teaches us that he is “the same yesterday, and today, and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8)

Answer:

Christ’s exaltation consisteth in his rising again from the dead on the third day, in ascending up into heaven, in sitting at the right hand of God the Father, and in coming to judge the world at the last day.

Scripture References:

1 Corinthians 15:3, 4
Acts 1:9
Ephesians 1:19, 20
Acts 1:11
Acts 17:31

Questions:

1. How many parts are there to Christ’s exaltation?

There are four parts to his exaltation. The first part is his resurrection from the dead; the second, his ascension into heaven; the third, his sitting down at the right hand of the father; the fourth, his coming to judge the world.

2. Is it possible to prove that he rose from the dead?

It can be proven by the many witnesses who saw him and talked with him after his resurrection. Another proof is that if it were not so our faith would be in vain as is taught in 1 Corinthians 15:17.

3. Who was responsible for this miracle of rising from the dead?

Christ did this by his own power and Spirit as is taught by such verses as John 10:17, 18; Romans 1:4

4. What does the resurrection of Christ teach us?

It teaches us to walk in newness of life. Romans 6:4

5. Why did Christ ascend into heaven?

He ascended into heaven that he might be returned to the glory he had before the world was formed (John 17:5). By his ascension he also took over, as Head of the church, the destination of all believers.

6. What does Christ do at the right hand of God?

Christ makes intercession for all believers at this place and is also preparing a place for them.

7. When and how will Christ come to judge the world?

He will come to judge the world at the last day. He will judge the world in righteousness, giving to everyone what is deserved. (2 Corinthians 5:10)

Answer:

We are made partakers of the redemption purchased by Christ, by the effectual application of it to us by his Holy Spirit.

Scripture References:

John 1:12,13
John 3:5, 6
Titus 3:5, 6

Questions:

1. What do we mean by the word “redemption” in this particular question?

The word redemption in this question could be labelled as the complete doctrine of salvation that is revealed in the Scripture. The “broad” use of the word is in use here. Warfield states, “He died as a ransom certainly; but the salvation purchased by this ransom-price works itself out steadily in its successive stages unto the very end.” (Biblical Foundations, p.244).

2. How was this redemption purchased?

This redemption was purchased by the precious blood of Christ.

(1 Peter 1:19)

3. Is it not possible in some way for the believer to make of himself a partaker?

No, it is impossible for the believer to make of himself a partaker of redemption. The Bible teaches that we are totally unable to save ourselves, much less to deserve it.

4. By whom is our redemption applied?

Our redemption is applied by the Holy Spirit. It is his effectual working on us that brings it to pass.

5. How does this question help to make complete the doctrine of the Trinity?

It helps to make the doctrine of the Trinity complete by showing the work of the Holy Spirit in the work of redemption. We have seen how the Father ordains, the Son purchases and now the Spirit applies. Spurgeon had a favourite saying for the end of many of his sermons:

"We have heard the preacher,
Truth by him has been made known;
But we need a greater Teacher
From the everlasting Throne.
Application is the work of God alone."

Answer:

The Spirit applieth to us the redemption purchased by Christ, by working faith in us, and thereby uniting us to Christ in our effectual calling.

Scripture References:

Ephesians 2:8
John 15:5
1 Corinthians 6:17
1 Corinthians 1:9
1 Peter 5:10

Questions:

1. How does the Spirit apply this redemption to us?

This redemption is laid upon the soul by the Spirit. It unites us to Jesus Christ, it “joins” us to Him, makes us “one” with Him. It is an act of God.

2. How is it possible that we can be united to Christ when he is in heaven and we are here on earth?

It is possible because the person of Christ is everywhere. Matthew 28:20

3. In the union between Christ and the Christian is it a mutual union?

It is a mutual union but it begins first on the side of Christ. The Bible teaches that “I will put my Spirit within you.”

4. What happens when this application takes place in the soul?

When the application takes place in the soul the soul believes, it passes from the dead state to the state of being alive.

5. Is it possible for this union to be dissolved?

No, it is impossible for this union to be dissolved because it contains within it the perseverance of God.

6. Is this faith that takes place of ourselves or of God?

It can be said that faith is our act but it is God’s gift and the work of His Spirit. A good verse in this regard is Colossians 2:12 “you are raised with him through your faith in the power of God.”

7. To what does the Scripture compare this union?

The Scripture compares this union to the union between husband and wife; head and members; root and branches; foundation and superstructure.

Answer:

Effectual calling is the work of God’s Spirit, whereby, convincing us of our sin and misery, enlightening our minds in the knowledge of Christ, and renewing our wills, he doth persuade and enable us to embrace Jesus Christ, freely offered to us in the Gospel.

Scripture References:

2 Timothy 1:8, 9
Ephesians 1:18-20
Acts 2:37
Acts 26:18
Ezekiel 11:19
John 6:44, 45
Philippians 2:13
Ephesians 2:15

Questions:

1. In what two ways could “calling” be understood?

Calling has been recognized in Reformed Theology as both “external” and “internal” call. The first is the call of the word whereby all sinners are freely invited to Christ, that they may have life and salvation in Him. However, this call is insufficient in itself to enable them to come to Him. The second is the internal call of the Spirit that accompanies the proclamation of the word whereby the sinner is not only invited to Christ but is inwardly enabled to embrace Him as He is freely offered in the Gospel.

2. What is involved in the Spirit’s work in our hearts to convince us of our sin and misery?

The Spirit gives us a clear insight of the guilt of our sins and a recognition of the wrath of God and the miseries of hell. This wounds our conscience and causes us to ask, “What must I do to be saved?”

3. How does the Spirit accomplish this task?

The Spirit accomplishes this task by the law - “through the law we become conscious of sin” (Romans 3:20)

4. How does the Spirit enlighten our minds?

The Spirit does this by pointing us to Christ for in Him, that is in the knowledge of His person, righteousness, power, etc., we are renewed in our wills and are enabled to turn to Christ as Saviour and Lord.

5. Are we able to renew our own wills?

No, our wills are renewed only when the Spirit puts new inclinations in them and causes us, (makes us willing), to embrace Jesus Christ by faith. (Ephesians 1:19,20)

Answer:

They that are effectually called do in this life partake of justification, adoption, and sanctification, and the several benefits which in this life do either accompany or flow from them.

Scripture References:

Romans 8:30
Ephesians 1:5
1 Corinthians 1:30

Questions:

1. What should we note about these benefits?

We should note that these benefits are absolutely tied up with effectual calling. It should be further noted by us that “calling”, in the Bible sense of the word, cannot fail or remain ineffectual. Effectual calling has the power to produce the intended effect, that of enabling us to embrace Christ Jesus. It also has the same power to grant us certain benefits.

2. What are these benefits granted to us as those effectually called?

These benefits are justification, adoption and sanctification.

3. What connection is there between effectual calling and justification?

The sinner has communion in the righteousness of God.

4. What connection is there between adoption and effectual calling?

The sinner has a spiritual Father, God, through his relationship to Jesus Christ.

5. What connection is there between effectual calling and sanctification?

The sinner has a relationship to Christ regarding their ability to live as Christians should live. He is the Christian’s strength.

6. What should be the attitude of the Christian towards these benefits?

Regarding these benefits the Christian should:

a) Give all diligence to make his calling and election sure (2 Peter 1:10).

b) Be thankful that he is justified, adopted and is in the process of sanctification and show his thankfulness by praising the Lord and by serving Him.

c) Be looking forward to the day when, by His grace, He will be glorified knowing that such is the hope of those who have been predestined, called, and justified.

Answer:

Justification is an act of God’s free grace, wherein he pardoneth all our sins, and accepteth us as righteous in his sight, only for the righteousness of Christ imputed to us, and received by faith alone.

Scripture References:

Ephesians 1:7
2 Corinthians 5:19, 21
Romans 4:5
Romans 3:22, 24, 25
Romans 5:17-19
Romans 5:1
Acts 10:43
Galatians 2:16

Questions:

1. What does the word “justify” mean in the New Testament?

The word means “to deem to be right” in the New Testament. It signifies two things: (1) to show to be right or righteous; (2) to declare to be righteous.

2. Who is the author of our justification?

God is the author of our justification. In this question we have the first of a series in which the words “an act of God’s free grace” is used. We are justified freely through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. The grace of God is the deepest ground and final cause of our justification.

3. What are the two parts to justification?

The two parts are: (1) the pardoning of our sins; (2) the accepting us as righteous in his sight.

4. What two great truths are present in these two parts?

The first great truth is that the pardoning of our sins is a continued act. (See Calvin on John 1:29). All our sins are forgiven. The second truth is that we are not only pardoned but our Lord does not abhor us but accepts us as righteous.

5. How is it possible that he accepts us as righteous?

It is possible for him to accept us as righteous because his righteousness is made ours by imputation. (Romans 4:6).

6. What is imputation and how does it apply to us?

Imputation is God’s act of reckoning righteousness or guilt to a person’s credit or debit. It is as if we had obeyed the law and had satisfied justice.

7. How are we justified?

We are justified purely by faith without any kind of work being involved.

Answer:

Adoption is an act of God’s free grace, whereby we are received into the number, and have a right to all the privileges, of the sons of God.

Scripture References:

1 John 3:1
John 1:12
Romans 8:17
Colossians 3:10

Questions:

1. What is the difference between adoption in the sight of men and in the sight of God?

Adoption, according to man, is simply a taking into the family a child because of some qualification on the part of the child or because of some need of the adopting parent. God adopts those who are strangers, the children of wrath, those in whom there is nothing commendable and gives them all the rights and privileges as children of God.

2. What is involved in this new relationship?

A.A. Hodge states, “Adoption presents the new creature in his new relations - his new relations entered upon with a congenial heart, and his new life developing in a congenial home, and surrounded with those relations which foster its growth and crown it with blessedness.” (Confession of Faith, pg.192)

3. Are all children of men adopted by God?

No, only those who believe on Christ. (John 1:12)

4. Who specifically does the act of adopting?

The act of adoption belongs to God the Father. “How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” (1 John 3:1)

5. What are the privileges to which the adopted children of God are entitled?

The list could be endless. Primarily the privileges are:

(1) Protection from evils of all kinds (Psalm 121:7)

(2) The bearing of his likeness (Colossians 3:10).

(3) The access to God the Father (1 John 5:14,15).

(4) The provision of the needs of the believer (Psalm 34:10).

(5) A surety of entrance into the kingdom of heaven (Rom 8:17)

Answer:

Sanctification is the work of God’s free grace, whereby we are renewed in the whole man after the image of God, and are enabled more and more to die unto sin, and live unto righteousness.

Scripture References:

2 Thessalonians 2:13
Ephesians 4:23, 24
Romans 6:4, 6, 14
Romans 8:4

Questions:

1. How does sanctification differ from justification?

Justification is complete at once; sanctification is a process carried on by degrees to perfection in glory. Justification alters a man’s position or standing before God; sanctification is a real change as it changes a man’s heart and life. Justification is an act of God without us; sanctification is the work of God, renewing us within as we use the means of grace.

2. What does the word “sanctify” mean in Scripture?

The word is used in two ways in Scripture. (1) To set apart from a common to a sacred use (John 10:36). (2) To render morally pure or holy (1 Corinthians 6:11).

3. Where does sanctification do its work in the believer?

Sanctification does its work in the heart of the believer, in the new man. God does a work of renovation in us after his image in knowledge, righteousness and holiness.

4. When we speak of the “new man” what do we mean?

We mean the new nature personified as the believer’s regenerate self, a nature “created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” (Ephesians 4:24).

5. What are the two parts to sanctification?

The two parts are: (1) Mortification - in which we are enabled to die more and more unto sin (Romans 6:11). (2) Vivification - in which our natures are quickened by the power of grace so that we live unto righteousness (Romans 6:13).

6. Of what use is sanctification in the believer?

Sanctification is the evidence of our justification and faith and it is necessary if we are to live to the glory of God. It is a necessary aspect of our preparation to meet God, for without holiness no man shall see God.

Answer:

The benefits which in this life do accompany or flow from justification, adoption, and sanctification, are: assurance of God’s love, peace of conscience, joy in the Holy Ghost, increase of grace, and perseverance therein to the end.

Scripture References:

Romans 5:1, 2, 5
Romans 14:17
Colossians 1:10, 11
Proverbs 4:18
Jeremiah 32:40
1 John 2:19, 27
Revelation 14:12
1 Peter 1:5

Questions:

1. What do we mean by “assurance of God’s love?”

We mean the persuasion that we are the children of God and the heirs of eternal life (Romans 5:5).

2. Do all believers experience this persuasion?

According to the Westminster Standards, a man may have faith sufficient for his salvation, and yet “may not have enough of faith or of its fruits to enable him to attain to assurance.” (Whyte). Although the possession of assurance is not essential to one’s salvation, it is essential to one’s spiritual well-being; and the Bible clearly teaches that the believer ought to seek such assurance.

(2 Peter 1:10; Hebrews 6:11).

3. What do we mean by “peace of conscience?”

We mean the inward quietness that is a result of being justified by faith. Since we have an assurance of our reconciliation to God, our lot is determined by his love, and peace is our heritage (Rom. 5:1).

4. What do we mean by “joy in the Holy Ghost?”

Joy of salvation and the sense of God’s favour imparted by the Holy Spirit who indwells believers as his temple. (1 Peter 1:8; Romans 14:17; Galatians 5:22).

5. What do we mean by “increase in grace?”

We mean the “growth in holiness and progress in piety” (James Harper). This is the work of the Holy Spirit and is manifested in an increase in faith, love, submission, patience, meekness, etc. (Galatians 5:22, 23).

6. What do we mean by “perseverance therein to the end?”

We mean the perseverance of God (not the saints) to keep the believer to the end. We mean that the believer cannot totally or finally fall from grace. This is due to God’s promises, God’s faithfulness, the Holy Spirit’s indwelling and the believer’s union with Christ (1 Peter 1:5).

Answer:

The souls of believers are at their death made perfect in holiness, and do immediately pass into glory; and their bodies, being still united to Christ, do rest in their graves till the resurrection.

Scripture References:

Luke 23:43
Luke 16:23
Philippians 1:23
2 Corinthians 5:6-8
1 Thessalonians4:14
Romans 8:23

Questions:

1. When believers die what benefits are received?

The believer receives a benefit in regard to his soul and in regard to his body.

2. What benefit is received of the believer in regard to his soul?

Hebrews 12:23 teaches that the soul is made perfect in holiness and immediately passes into glory.

3. How is the believer benefited with respect to his body?

The body of the believer in the grave will still be united to Christ in a mystical union (1 Cor. 6:15). At the resurrection the body of the believer will be united with his soul.

4. What is this “resurrection” spoken of in the prior question?

This resurrection is the last and general resurrection of all the dead in the last day (1 Thess. 4:16).

5. What is the lot of the souls and bodies of the unbelievers?

The bodies of the unbelievers are shut up in the prison of the grave (Daniel 12:2) and their souls suffer the anguish and torment of hell.

6. Will the believer be raised with the same body at the last day?

Yes, the dead in Christ shall be raised with the same body (Job 19:26). There will be a difference in quality, not in substance and essence. (Philippians 3:20-21).

7. How can a believer be assured of these blessings when death is nigh?

A believer can be assured of them because the promises of God are sure and true, promises made even before the world began (2 Tim. 1:9). There need be no doubt on the part of the believer for “What the Bible says, God says, and that ends the matter!”

Answer:

At the resurrection, believers, being raised up in glory, shall be openly acknowledged and acquitted in the day of judgment, and made perfectly blessed in the full enjoying of God to all eternity.

Scripture References:

1 Corinthians 15:43, 44
Matthew 25:33, 34
Matthew 10:32
Psalm 16:1
1 Thessalonians 4:14
1 Corinthians 2:9

Questions:

1. What are the three benefits of the believers as contained in this question?

(1) The believers shall be raised up in glory. (2) The believers shall be acknowledged and acquitted at the day of judgement. (3) The believers shall be made perfectly blessed in the full enjoyment of God to all eternity.

2. What is the glory referred to in this question and what will be the result of it?

The glory referred to in this question is the glory of the resurrection, when the body will be restored and no longer subject to death and dissolution and will “be transformed to be like Christ’s glorious body.” (Phil. 3:21).

3. What is the meaning of the believers being acknowledged and acquitted?

The believers will hear the Saviour’s “Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.” (Matthew 25:34). Their faith shall be vindicated; they shall be publicly acknowledged as the redeemed children of God, (1 Corinthians 4:5), and the declaration will be made that all their sins are pardoned.

4. What is the third blessing that will come to the believers?

The third is the greatest blessing of them all, the full enjoyment of God. The believers will ever be with the Lord and will receive the inheritance prepared for them. There the believers will behold their Saviour and Lord, Jesus Christ, and will finally be able to trace the ways in which the Lord has led and saved them. (1 Peter 1:6).

5. What will be the lot of the unbelievers at the resurrection?

Their bodies shall be released from the grave and they shall see Christ as their final judge. They shall stand before His judgment Throne and shall have their sins read out of the books and will be eternally cast into hell. (2 Thess. 1:7, 8 and Revelation 20:11, 12).