Effectual Calling and Salvation

Q57. What benefits hath Christ procured by his mediation?

Christ, by his mediation, hath procured redemption, with all other benefits of the covenant of grace.

Proof texts

• Heb. 9:12 — [12] he entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption.
• 2 Cor. 1:20 — [20] For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Heb. 9:12 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 2 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q30 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WSC Q31 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

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Q58. How do we come to be made partakers of the benefits which Christ hath procured?

We are made partakers of the benefits which Christ hath procured, by the application of them unto us, which is the work especially of God the Holy Ghost.

Proof texts

• John 1:11-12 — [11] He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. [12] But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,
• Titus 3:5-6 — [5] he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, [6] whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited John 1:11-12 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 2 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q30 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WSC Q31 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q30 · WSC Q31 · WSC Q32 · WCF 9.1 · HC Q53 · BC 6.1 · BC 6.2 · BC 6.3 · CD 3.1 · 1689 9.1 · 1689 9.2 · 1689 9.3 · 1689 9.4 · 1689 9.5 · 1689 10.1 · 1689 10.2 · 1689 10.3 · 1689 10.4

Q59. Who are made partakers of redemption through Christ?

Redemption is certainly applied, and effectually communicated, to all those for whom Christ hath purchased it; who are in time by the Holy Ghost enabled to believe in Christ according to the gospel.

Proof texts

• Eph. 1:13-14 — [13] In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, [14] who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.
• John 6:37,39 — [37] All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out. [39] And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day.
• John 10:15-16 — [15] just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. [16] And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd.
• Eph. 2:8 — [8] For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God,
• 2 Cor. 4:13 — [13] Since we have the same spirit of faith according to what has been written, “I believed, and so I spoke,” we also believe, and so we also speak,

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Eph. 1:13-14 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 5 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q31 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WSC Q32 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q31 · WSC Q32 · WCF 9.1 · HC Q53 · BC 6.1 · BC 6.2 · BC 6.3 · CD 3.1 · 1689 9.1 · 1689 9.2 · 1689 9.3 · 1689 9.4 · 1689 9.5 · 1689 10.1 · 1689 10.2 · 1689 10.3 · 1689 10.4

Q60. Can they who have never heard the gospel, and so know not Jesus Christ, nor believe in him, be saved by their living according to the light of nature?

They who, having never heard the gospel, know not Jesus Christ, and believe not in him, cannot be saved, be they never so diligent to frame their lives according to the light of nature, or the laws of that religion which they profess; neither is there salvation in any other, but in Christ alone, who is the Savior only of his body the church.

Proof texts

• Rom. 10:14 — [14] How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching?
• 2 Thess. 1:8-9 — [8] in flaming fire, inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. [9] They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might,
• Eph. 2:12 — [12] remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world.
• John 1:10-12 — [10] He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. [11] He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. [12] But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,
• John 8:24 — [24] I told you that you would die in your sins, for unless you believe that I am he you will die in your sins.”
• Mark 16:16 — [16] Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.
• 1 Cor. 1:20-24 — [20] Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? [21] For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe. [22] For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, [23] but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, [24] but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.
• John 4:22 — [22] You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews.
• Rom. 9:31-32 — [31] but that Israel who pursued a law that would lead to righteousness did not succeed in reaching that law. [32] Why? Because they did not pursue it by faith, but as if it were based on works. They have stumbled over the stumbling stone,
• Phil. 3:4-9 — [4] though I myself have reason for confidence in the flesh also. If anyone else thinks he has reason for confidence in the flesh, I have more: [5] circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; [6] as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless. [7] But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. [8] Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ [9] and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith —
• Acts 4:12 — [12] And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
• Eph. 5:23 — [23] For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Rom. 10:14 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 12 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q29 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WSC Q30 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q29 · WSC Q30 · WSC Q31 · WSC Q32 · WCF 9.1 · HC Q53 · BC 6.1 · BC 6.2 · BC 6.3 · CD 3.1 · 1689 9.1 · 1689 9.2 · 1689 9.3 · 1689 9.4 · 1689 9.5 · 1689 10.1 · 1689 10.2 · 1689 10.3 · 1689 10.4

Q61. Are all they saved who hear the gospel, and live in the church?

All that hear the gospel, and live in the visible church, are not saved; but they only who are true members of the church invisible.

Proof texts

• John 12:38-40 — [38] so that the word spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: “Lord, who has believed what he heard from us, and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?” [39] Therefore they could not believe. For again Isaiah said, [40] “He has blinded their eyes and hardened their heart, lest they see with their eyes, and understand with their heart, and turn, and I would heal them.”
• Rom. 9:6 — [6] But it is not as though the word of God has failed. For not all who are descended from Israel belong to Israel,
• Rom. 11:7 — [7] What then? Israel failed to obtain what it was seeking. The elect obtained it, but the rest were hardened,
• Matt. 7:21 — [21] “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.
• Matt. 22:14 — [14] For many are called, but few are chosen.”

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited John 12:38-40 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 5 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q29 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WSC Q30 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q29 · WSC Q30 · WSC Q31 · WSC Q32 · WCF 9.1 · HC Q53 · BC 6.1 · BC 6.2 · BC 6.3 · CD 3.1 · 1689 9.1 · 1689 9.2 · 1689 9.3 · 1689 9.4 · 1689 9.5 · 1689 10.1 · 1689 10.2 · 1689 10.3 · 1689 10.4

Q62. What is the visible church?

The visible church is a society made up of all such as in all ages and places of the world do profess the true religion, and of their children.

Proof texts

• 1 Cor. 1:2 — [2] To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours:
• 1 Cor. 12:13 — [13] For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body — Jews or Greeks, slaves or free — and all were made to drink of one Spirit.
• Rom. 15:9-12 — [9] and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written, “Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles, and sing to your name.” [10] And again it is said, “Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people.” [11] And again, “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and let all the peoples extol him.” [12] And again Isaiah says, “The root of Jesse will come, even he who arises to rule the Gentiles; in him will the Gentiles hope.”
• Rev. 7:9 — [9] After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands,
• Ps. 2:8 — [8] Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage, and the ends of the earth your possession.
• Ps. 22:27-31 — [27] All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to the LORD, and all the families of the nations shall worship before you. [28] For kingship belongs to the LORD, and he rules over the nations. [29] All the prosperous of the earth eat and worship; before him shall bow all who go down to the dust, even the one who could not keep himself alive. [30] Posterity shall serve him; it shall be told of the Lord to the coming generation; [31] they shall come and proclaim his righteousness to a people yet unborn, that he has done it.
• Ps. 45:17 — [17] I will cause your name to be remembered in all generations; therefore nations will praise you forever and ever.
• Matt. 28:19-20 — [19] Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
• Isa. 59:21 — [21] “And as for me, this is my covenant with them,” says the LORD: “My Spirit that is upon you, and my words that I have put in your mouth, shall not depart out of your mouth, or out of the mouth of your offspring, or out of the mouth of your children's offspring,” says the LORD, “from this time forth and forevermore.”
• 1 Cor. 7:14 — [14] For the unbelieving husband is made holy because of his wife, and the unbelieving wife is made holy because of her husband. Otherwise your children would be unclean, but as it is, they are holy.
• Acts 2:39 — [39] For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.”
• Rom. 11:16 — [16] If the dough offered as firstfruits is holy, so is the whole lump, and if the root is holy, so are the branches.
• Gen. 17:7 — [7] And I will establish my covenant between me and you and your offspring after you throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your offspring after you.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited 1 Cor. 1:2 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 13 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q29 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WSC Q30 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q29 · WSC Q30 · WSC Q31 · WSC Q32 · WCF 9.1 · HC Q53 · BC 6.1 · BC 6.2 · BC 6.3 · CD 3.1 · 1689 9.1 · 1689 9.2 · 1689 9.3 · 1689 9.4 · 1689 9.5 · 1689 10.1 · 1689 10.2 · 1689 10.3 · 1689 10.4

Q63. What are the special privileges of the visible church?

The visible church hath the privilege of being under God's special care and government; of being protected and preserved in all ages, not withstanding the opposition of all enemies; and of enjoying the communion of saints, the ordinary means of salvation, and offers of grace by Christ to all the members of it in the ministry of the gospel, testifying, that whosoever believes in him shall be saved, and excluding none that will come unto him.

Proof texts

• Isa. 4:5-6 — [5] Then the LORD will create over the whole site of Mount Zion and over her assemblies a cloud by day, and smoke and the shining of a flaming fire by night; for over all the glory there will be a canopy. [6] There will be a booth for shade by day from the heat, and for a refuge and a shelter from the storm and rain.
• 1 Tim. 4:10 — [10] For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.
• Ps. 115:1-2,9 — [1] Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to your name give glory, for the sake of your steadfast love and your faithfulness! [2] Why should the nations say, “Where is their God?” [9] O Israel, trust in the LORD! He is their help and their shield.
• Isa. 31:4-5 — [4] For thus the LORD said to me, “As a lion or a young lion growls over his prey, and when a band of shepherds is called out against him he is not terrified by their shouting or daunted at their noise, so the LORD of hosts will come down to fight on Mount Zion and on its hill. [5] Like birds hovering, so the LORD of hosts will protect Jerusalem; he will protect and deliver it; he will spare and rescue it.”
• Zech. 12:2-4,8-9 — [2] “Behold, I am about to make Jerusalem a cup of staggering to all the surrounding peoples. The siege of Jerusalem will also be against Judah. [3] On that day I will make Jerusalem a heavy stone for all the peoples. All who lift it will surely hurt themselves. And all the nations of the earth will gather against it. [4] On that day, declares the LORD, I will strike every horse with panic, and its rider with madness. But for the sake of the house of Judah I will keep my eyes open, when I strike every horse of the peoples with blindness. [8] On that day the LORD will protect the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that the feeblest among them on that day shall be like David, and the house of David shall be like God, like the angel of the LORD, going before them. [9] And on that day I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem.
• Acts 2:39,42 — [39] For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” [42] And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.
• Ps. 147:19-20 — [19] He declares his word to Jacob, his statutes and rules to Israel. [20] He has not dealt thus with any other nation; they do not know his rules. Praise the LORD!
• Rom. 9:4 — [4] They are Israelites, and to them belong the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the worship, and the promises.
• Eph. 4:11-12 — [11] And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, [12] to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ,
• Mark 16:15-16 — [15] And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. [16] Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.
• John 6:37 — [37] All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Isa. 4:5-6 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 11 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q29 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WSC Q30 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q29 · WSC Q30 · WSC Q31 · WSC Q32 · WCF 9.1 · HC Q53 · BC 6.1 · BC 6.2 · BC 6.3 · CD 3.1 · 1689 9.1 · 1689 9.2 · 1689 9.3 · 1689 9.4 · 1689 9.5 · 1689 10.1 · 1689 10.2 · 1689 10.3 · 1689 10.4

Q64. What is the invisible church?

The invisible church is the whole number of the elect, that have been, are, or shall be gathered into one under Christ the head.

Proof texts

• Eph. 1:20,22-23 — [20] that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, [22] And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, [23] which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.
• John 10:16 — [16] And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd.
• John 11:52 — [52] and not for the nation only, but also to gather into one the children of God who are scattered abroad.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Eph. 1:20,22-23 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 3 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q29 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WSC Q30 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q29 · WSC Q30 · WSC Q31 · WSC Q32 · WCF 9.1 · HC Q53 · BC 6.1 · BC 6.2 · BC 6.3 · CD 3.1 · 1689 9.1 · 1689 9.2 · 1689 9.3 · 1689 9.4 · 1689 9.5 · 1689 10.1 · 1689 10.2 · 1689 10.3 · 1689 10.4

Q65. What special benefits do the members of the invisible church enjoy by Christ?

The members of the invisible church by Christ enjoy union and communion with him in grace and glory.

Proof texts

• John 17:21,24 — [21] that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. [24] Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world.
• Eph. 2:5-6 — [5] even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ — by grace you have been saved — [6] and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus,

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited John 17:21,24 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 2 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q29 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WSC Q30 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q29 · WSC Q30 · WSC Q31 · WCF 9.1 · HC Q53 · BC 6.1 · BC 6.2 · BC 6.3 · CD 3.1 · 1689 9.1 · 1689 9.2 · 1689 9.3 · 1689 9.4 · 1689 9.5 · 1689 10.1 · 1689 10.2 · 1689 10.3 · 1689 10.4

Q66. What is that union which the elect have with Christ?

The union which the elect have with Christ is the work of God's grace, whereby they are spiritually and mystically, yet really and inseparably, joined to Christ as their head and husband; which is done in their effectual calling.

Proof texts

• Eph. 1:22 — [22] And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church,
• Eph. 2:6-8 — [6] and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, [7] so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. [8] For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God,
• 1 Cor. 6:17 — [17] But he who is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him.
• John 10:28 — [28] I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.
• Eph. 5:23,30 — [23] For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. [30] because we are members of his body.
• 1 Pet. 5:10 — [10] And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.
• 1 Cor. 1:9 — [9] God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Eph. 1:22 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 7 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q29 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WSC Q30 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q29 · WSC Q30 · WSC Q31 · WSC Q32 · WCF 9.1 · HC Q53 · BC 6.1 · BC 6.2 · BC 6.3 · CD 3.1 · 1689 9.1 · 1689 9.2 · 1689 9.3 · 1689 9.4 · 1689 9.5 · 1689 10.1 · 1689 10.2 · 1689 10.3 · 1689 10.4

Q67. What is effectual calling?

Effectual calling is the work of God's almighty power and grace, whereby (out of his free and special love to his elect, and from nothing in them moving him thereunto ) he doth, in his accepted time, invite and draw them to Jesus Christ, by his word and Spirit; savingly enlightening their minds, renewing and powerfully determining their wills, so as they (although in themselves dead in sin) are hereby made willing and able freely to answer his call, and to accept and embrace the grace offered and conveyed therein.

Proof texts

• John 5:25 — [25] “Truly, truly, I say to you, an hour is coming, and is now here, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live.
• Eph. 1:18-20 — [18] having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, [19] and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might [20] that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places,
• 2 Tim. 1:8-9 — [8] Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, [9] who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began,
• Titus 3:4-5 — [4] But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, [5] he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit,
• Eph. 2:4-5,7-9 — [4] But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, [5] even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ — by grace you have been saved — [7] so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. [8] For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, [9] not a result of works, so that no one may boast.
• Rom. 9:11 — [11] though they were not yet born and had done nothing either good or bad — in order that God's purpose of election might continue, not because of works but because of him who calls —
• 2 Cor. 5:20 — [20] Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
• 2 Cor. 6:1-2 — [1] Working together with him, then, we appeal to you not to receive the grace of God in vain. [2] For he says, “In a favorable time I listened to you, and in a day of salvation I have helped you.” Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.
• John 6:44 — [44] No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day.
• 2 Thess. 2:13-14 — [13] But we ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you as the firstfruits to be saved, through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth. [14] To this he called you through our gospel, so that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.
• Acts 26:18 — [18] to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’
• 1 Cor. 2:10,12 — [10] these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God. [12] Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God.
• Ezek. 11:19 — [19] And I will give them one heart, and a new spirit I will put within them. I will remove the heart of stone from their flesh and give them a heart of flesh,
• Ezek. 36:26-27 — [26] And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. [27] And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules.
• John 6:45 — [45] It is written in the Prophets, ‘And they will all be taught by God.’ Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to me —
• Eph. 2:5 — [5] even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ — by grace you have been saved —
• Phil. 2:13 — [13] for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.
• Deut. 30:6 — [6] And the LORD your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your offspring, so that you will love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, that you may live.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited John 5:25 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 18 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q29 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WSC Q30 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q29 · WSC Q30 · WSC Q32 · WCF 9.1 · HC Q53 · BC 6.1 · BC 6.2 · BC 6.3 · CD 3.1 · 1689 9.1 · 1689 9.2 · 1689 9.3 · 1689 9.4 · 1689 9.5 · 1689 10.1 · 1689 10.2 · 1689 10.3 · 1689 10.4

Q68. Are the elect only effectually called?

All the elect, and they only, are effectually called; although others may be, and often are, outwardly called by the ministry of the word, and have some common operations of the Spirit; who, for their wilful neglect and contempt of the grace offered to them, being justly left in their unbelief, do never truly come to Jesus Christ.

Proof texts

• Acts 13:48 — [48] And when the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord, and as many as were appointed to eternal life believed.
• Matt. 22:14 — [14] For many are called, but few are chosen.”
• Matt. 7:22 — [22] On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’
• Matt. 13:20-21 — [20] As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy, [21] yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away.
• Heb. 6:4-6 — [4] For it is impossible, in the case of those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit, [5] and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come, [6] and then have fallen away, to restore them again to repentance, since they are crucifying once again the Son of God to their own harm and holding him up to contempt.
• John 6:64-65 — [64] But there are some of you who do not believe.” (For Jesus knew from the beginning who those were who did not believe, and who it was who would betray him.) [65] And he said, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father.”
• John 12:38-40 — [38] so that the word spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: “Lord, who has believed what he heard from us, and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?” [39] Therefore they could not believe. For again Isaiah said, [40] “He has blinded their eyes and hardened their heart, lest they see with their eyes, and understand with their heart, and turn, and I would heal them.”
• Acts 18:25-27 — [25] He had been instructed in the way of the Lord. And being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things concerning Jesus, though he knew only the baptism of John. [26] He began to speak boldly in the synagogue, but when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately. [27] And when he wished to cross to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples to welcome him. When he arrived, he greatly helped those who through grace had believed,
• Ps. 81:11-12 — [11] “But my people did not listen to my voice; Israel would not submit to me. [12] So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts, to follow their own counsels.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Acts 13:48 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 9 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q29 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WSC Q30 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q29 · WSC Q30 · WSC Q32 · WCF 9.1 · HC Q53 · BC 6.1 · BC 6.2 · BC 6.3 · CD 3.1 · 1689 9.1 · 1689 9.2 · 1689 9.3 · 1689 9.4 · 1689 9.5 · 1689 10.1 · 1689 10.2 · 1689 10.3 · 1689 10.4

Q69. What is the communion in grace which the members of the invisible church have with Christ?

The communion in grace which the members of the invisible church have with Christ, is their partaking of the virtue of his mediation, in their justification, adoption, sanctification, and whatever else, in this life, manifests their union with him.

Proof texts

• Rom. 8:30 — [30] And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified.
• Eph. 1:5 — [5] he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will,
• 1 Cor. 1:30 — [30] And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption,

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Rom. 8:30 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 3 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q29 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WSC Q30 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q29 · WSC Q30 · WSC Q31 · WCF 9.1 · HC Q53 · BC 6.1 · BC 6.2 · BC 6.3 · CD 3.1 · 1689 9.1 · 1689 9.2 · 1689 9.3 · 1689 9.4 · 1689 9.5 · 1689 10.1 · 1689 10.2 · 1689 10.3 · 1689 10.4

Q70. What is justification?

Justification is an act of God's free grace unto sinners, in which he pardoneth all their sins, accepteth and accounteth their persons righteous in his sight; not for any thing wrought in them, or done by them, but only for the perfect obedience and full satisfaction of Christ, by God imputed to them, and received by faith alone.

Proof texts

• Rom. 3:22,24-25 — [22] the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: [24] and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, [25] whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins.
• Rom. 4:5 — [5] And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness,
• 2 Cor. 5:19,21 — [19] that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. [21] For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
• Rom. 3:22-25,27-28 — [22] the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: [23] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, [24] and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, [25] whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. [27] Then what becomes of our boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? By a law of works? No, but by the law of faith. [28] For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law.
• Titus 3:5,7 — [5] he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, [7] so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
• Eph. 1:7 — [7] In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace,
• Rom. 4:6-8 — [6] just as David also speaks of the blessing of the one to whom God counts righteousness apart from works: [7] “Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven, and whose sins are covered; [8] blessed is the man against whom the Lord will not count his sin.”
• Rom. 5:17-19 — [17] For if, because of one man's trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ. [18] Therefore, as one trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one act of righteousness leads to justification and life for all men. [19] For as by the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man's obedience the many will be made righteous.
• Acts 10:43 — [43] To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”
• Gal. 2:16 — [16] yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.
• Phil. 3:9 — [9] and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith —

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Rom. 3:22,24-25 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 11 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. HC Q59 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. BC 6.1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

HC Q59 · BC 6.1 · BC 6.2 · BC 6.3

Q71. How is justification an act of God's free grace?

Although Christ, by his obedience and death, did make a proper, real, and full satisfaction to God's justice in the behalf of them that are justified; yet inasmuch as God accepteth the satisfaction from a surety, which he might have demanded of them, and did provide this surety, his own only Son, imputing his righteousness to them, and requiring nothing of them for their justification but faith, which also is his gift, their justification is to them of free grace.

Proof texts

• Rom. 5:8-10,19 — [8] but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. [9] Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. [10] For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. [19] For as by the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man's obedience the many will be made righteous.
• 2 Tim. 2:5-6 — [5] An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. [6] It is the hard-working farmer who ought to have the first share of the crops.
• Heb. 7:22 — [22] This makes Jesus the guarantor of a better covenant.
• Heb. 10:10 — [10] And by that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
• Matt. 20:28 — [28] even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
• Dan. 9:24,26 — [24] “Seventy weeks are decreed about your people and your holy city, to finish the transgression, to put an end to sin, and to atone for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal both vision and prophet, and to anoint a most holy place. [26] And after the sixty-two weeks, an anointed one shall be cut off and shall have nothing. And the people of the prince who is to come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary. Its end shall come with a flood, and to the end there shall be war. Desolations are decreed.
• Isa. 53:4-6,10-12 — [4] Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. [5] But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed. [6] All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned — every one — to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all. [10] Yet it was the will of the LORD to crush him; he has put him to grief; when his soul makes an offering for guilt, he shall see his offspring; he shall prolong his days; the will of the LORD shall prosper in his hand. [11] Out of the anguish of his soul he shall see and be satisfied; by his knowledge shall the righteous one, my servant, make many to be accounted righteous, and he shall bear their iniquities. [12] Therefore I will divide him a portion with the many, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong, because he poured out his soul to death and was numbered with the transgressors; yet he bore the sin of many, and makes intercession for the transgressors.
• Rom. 8:32 — [32] He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?
• 1 Pet. 1:18-19 — [18] knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, [19] but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot.
• 2 Cor. 5:21 — [21] For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
• Rom. 3:24-25 — [24] and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, [25] whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins.
• Eph. 2:8 — [8] For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God,
• Eph. 1:7 — [7] In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace,

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Rom. 5:8-10,19 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 13 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. HC Q59 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. BC 6.1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

HC Q59 · BC 6.1 · BC 6.2 · BC 6.3

Q72. What is justifying faith?

Justifying faith is a saving grace, wrought in the heart of a sinner by the Spirit and word of God, whereby he, being convinced of his sin and misery, and of the disability in himself and all other creatures to recover him out of his lost condition, not only assenteth to the truth of the promise of the gospel, but receiveth and resteth upon Christ and his righteousness, therein held forth, for pardon of sin, and for the accepting and accounting of his person righteous in the sight of God for salvation.

Proof texts

• Heb. 10:39 — [39] But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who have faith and preserve their souls.
• 2 Cor. 4:13 — [13] Since we have the same spirit of faith according to what has been written, “I believed, and so I spoke,” we also believe, and so we also speak,
• Eph. 1:17-19 — [17] that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, [18] having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, [19] and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might
• Rom. 10:14,17 — [14] How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? [17] So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.
• Acts 2:37 — [37] Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”
• Acts 4:12 — [12] And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
• Acts 16:30 — [30] Then he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”
• John 16:8-9 — [8] And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: [9] concerning sin, because they do not believe in me;
• Rom. 5:6 — [6] For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.
• Eph. 2:1 — [1] And you were dead in the trespasses and sins
• Eph. 1:13 — [13] In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit,
• John 1:12 — [12] But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,
• Acts 10:43 — [43] To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”
• Acts 16:31 — [31] And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.”
• Phil. 3:9 — [9] and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith —
• Acts 15:11 — [11] But we believe that we will be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, just as they will.”

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Heb. 10:39 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 16 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. HC Q59 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. BC 6.1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

HC Q59 · BC 6.1 · BC 6.2 · BC 6.3

Q73. How doth faith justify a sinner in the sight of God?

Faith justifies a sinner in the sight of God, not because of those other graces which do always accompany it, or of good works that are the fruits of it, nor as if the grace of faith, or any act thereof, were imputed to him for his justification; but only as it is an instrument by which he receiveth and applies Christ and his righteousness.

Proof texts

• Gal. 3:11 — [11] Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law, for “The righteous shall live by faith.”
• Rom. 3:28 — [28] For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law.
• Rom. 4:5 — [5] And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness,
• Rom. 10:10 — [10] For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.
• John 1:12 — [12] But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,
• Phil. 3:9 — [9] and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith —
• Gal. 2:16 — [16] yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Gal. 3:11 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 7 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. HC Q59 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. BC 6.1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

HC Q59 · BC 6.1 · BC 6.2 · BC 6.3

Q74. What is adoption?

Adoption is an act of the free grace of God, in and for his only Son Jesus Christ, whereby all those that are justified are received into the number of his children, have his name put upon them, the Spirit of his Son given to them, are under his fatherly care and dispensations, admitted to all the liberties and privileges of the sons of God, made heirs of all the promises, and fellow heirs with Christ in glory.

Proof texts

• 1 John 3:1 — [1] See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him.
• Eph. 1:5 — [5] he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will,
• Gal. 4:4-5 — [4] But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, [5] to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.
• John 1:12 — [12] But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,
• 2 Cor. 4:18 — [18] as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.
• Rev. 3:12 — [12] The one who conquers, I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God. Never shall he go out of it, and I will write on him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down from my God out of heaven, and my own new name.
• Gal. 4:6 — [6] And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!”
• Ps. 103:13 — [13] As a father shows compassion to his children, so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear him.
• Prov. 14:26 — [26] In the fear of the LORD one has strong confidence, and his children will have a refuge.
• Matt. 6:32 — [32] For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.
• Heb. 6:12 — [12] so that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
• Rom. 8:17 — [17] and if children, then heirs — heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited 1 John 3:1 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 12 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?

Q75. What is sanctification?

Sanctification is a work of God's grace, whereby they whom God hath, before the foundation of the world, chosen to be holy, are in time, through the powerful operation of his Spirit applying the death and resurrection of Christ unto them, renewed in their whole man after the image of God; having the seeds of repentance unto life, and all other saving graces, put into their hearts, and those graces so stirred up, increased, and strengthened, as that they more and more die unto sin, and rise unto newness of life.

Proof texts

• Eph. 1:4 — [4] even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love
• 1 Cor. 6:11 — [11] And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.
• 2 Thess. 2:13 — [13] But we ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you as the firstfruits to be saved, through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth.
• Rom. 6:4-6 — [4] We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. [5] For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. [6] We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin.
• Eph. 4:23-24 — [23] and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, [24] and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.
• Acts 11:18 — [18] When they heard these things they fell silent. And they glorified God, saying, “Then to the Gentiles also God has granted repentance that leads to life.”
• 1 John 3:9 — [9] No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God's seed abides in him; and he cannot keep on sinning, because he has been born of God.
• Jude 1:20 — [20] But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit,
• Heb. 6:11-12 — [11] And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end, [12] so that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
• Eph. 3:16-19 — [16] that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, [17] so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith — that you, being rooted and grounded in love, [18] may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, [19] and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
• Col. 1:10-11 — [10] so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; [11] being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy;
• Rom. 6:4 — [4] We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.
• Rom. 6:14 — [14] For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace.
• Gal. 5:24 — [24] And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Eph. 1:4 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 14 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q36 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. HC Q86 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q36 · HC Q86 · BC 6.3 · BC 6.4 · BC 6.5

Q76. What is repentance unto life?

Repentance unto life is a saving grace, wrought in the heart of a sinner by the Spirit and word of God, whereby, out of the sight and sense, not only of the danger, but also of the filthiness and odiousness of his sins, and upon the apprehension of God's mercy in Christ to such as are penitent, he so grieves for and hates his sins, as that he turns from them all to God, purposing and endeavoring constantly to walk with him in all the ways of new obedience.

Proof texts

• 2 Tim. 2:25 — [25] correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth,
• Zech. 12:10 — [10] “And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and pleas for mercy, so that, when they look on me, on him whom they have pierced, they shall mourn for him, as one mourns for an only child, and weep bitterly over him, as one weeps over a firstborn.
• Acts 11:18,20-21 — [18] When they heard these things they fell silent. And they glorified God, saying, “Then to the Gentiles also God has granted repentance that leads to life.” [20] But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who on coming to Antioch spoke to the Hellenists also, preaching the Lord Jesus. [21] And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord.
• Ezek. 18:28,30,32 — [28] Because he considered and turned away from all the transgressions that he had committed, he shall surely live; he shall not die. [30] “Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, declares the Lord GOD. Repent and turn from all your transgressions, lest iniquity be your ruin. [32] For I have no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Lord GOD; so turn, and live.”
• Luke 15:17-18 — [17] “But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father's hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! [18] I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you.
• Hos. 2:6-7 — [6] Therefore I will hedge up her way with thorns, and I will build a wall against her, so that she cannot find her paths. [7] She shall pursue her lovers but not overtake them, and she shall seek them but shall not find them. Then she shall say, ‘I will go and return to my first husband, for it was better for me then than now.’
• Ezek. 36:31 — [31] Then you will remember your evil ways, and your deeds that were not good, and you will loathe yourselves for your iniquities and your abominations.
• Isa. 30:22 — [22] Then you will defile your carved idols overlaid with silver and your gold-plated metal images. You will scatter them as unclean things. You will say to them, “Be gone!”
• Joel 2:12-13 — [12] “Yet even now,” declares the LORD, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; [13] and rend your hearts and not your garments.” Return to the LORD your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents over disaster.
• Jer. 31:18-19 — [18] I have heard Ephraim grieving, ‘You have disciplined me, and I was disciplined, like an untrained calf; bring me back that I may be restored, for you are the LORD my God. [19] For after I had turned away, I relented, and after I was instructed, I struck my thigh; I was ashamed, and I was confounded, because I bore the disgrace of my youth.’
• 2 Cor. 7:11 — [11] For see what earnestness this godly grief has produced in you, but also what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what longing, what zeal, what punishment! At every point you have proved yourselves innocent in the matter.
• Acts 26:18 — [18] to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’
• Ezek. 14:6 — [6] “Therefore say to the house of Israel, Thus says the Lord GOD: Repent and turn away from your idols, and turn away your faces from all your abominations.
• 1 Kings 8:47-48 — [47] yet if they turn their heart in the land to which they have been carried captive, and repent and plead with you in the land of their captors, saying, ‘We have sinned and have acted perversely and wickedly,’ [48] if they repent with all their heart and with all their soul in the land of their enemies, who carried them captive, and pray to you toward their land, which you gave to their fathers, the city that you have chosen, and the house that I have built for your name,
• Ps. 119:6,59,128 — [6] Then I shall not be put to shame, having my eyes fixed on all your commandments. [59] When I think on my ways, I turn my feet to your testimonies; [128] Therefore I consider all your precepts to be right; I hate every false way.
• Luke 1:6 — [6] And they were both righteous before God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and statutes of the Lord.
• 2 Kings 23:25 — [25] Before him there was no king like him, who turned to the LORD with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his might, according to all the Law of Moses, nor did any like him arise after him.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited 2 Tim. 2:25 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 17 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q36 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. HC Q86 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q36 · HC Q86 · BC 6.3 · BC 6.4 · BC 6.5

Q77. Wherein do justification and sanctification differ?

Although sanctification be inseparably joined with justification, yet they differ, in that God in justification imputeth the righteousness of Christ; in sanctification his Spirit infuseth grace, and enableth to the exercise thereof; in the former, sin is pardoned; in the other, it is subdued: the one doth equally free all believers from the revenging wrath of God, and that perfectly in this life, that they never fall into condemnation; the other is neither equal in all, nor in this life perfect in any, but growing up to perfection.

Proof texts

• 1 Cor. 1:30 — [30] And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption,
• 1 Cor. 6:11 — [11] And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.
• Rom. 4:6,8 — [6] just as David also speaks of the blessing of the one to whom God counts righteousness apart from works: [8] blessed is the man against whom the Lord will not count his sin.”
• Ezek. 36:27 — [27] And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules.
• Rom. 3:24-25 — [24] and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, [25] whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins.
• Rom. 6:6,14 — [6] We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. [14] For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace.
• Rom. 8:33-34 — [33] Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. [34] Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died — more than that, who was raised — who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.
• 1 John 2:12-14 — [12] I am writing to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven for his name's sake. [13] I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I write to you, children, because you know the Father. [14] I write to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.
• Heb. 5:12-14 — [12] For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, [13] for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. [14] But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil.
• 1 John 1:8,10 — [8] If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. [10] If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
• 2 Cor. 7:1 — [1] Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God.
• Phil. 3:12-14 — [12] Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. [13] Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, [14] I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited 1 Cor. 1:30 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 12 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q36 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. HC Q86 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q36 · HC Q86 · BC 6.3 · BC 6.4 · BC 6.5

Q78. Whence ariseth the imperfection of sanctification in believers?

The imperfection of sanctification in believers ariseth from the remnants of sin abiding in every part of them, and the perpetual lustings of the flesh against the spirit; whereby they are often foiled with temptations, and fall into many sins, are hindered in all their spiritual services, and their best works are imperfect and defiled in the sight of God.

Proof texts

• Rom. 7:18,23 — [18] For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. [23] but I see in my members another law waging war against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members.
• Mark 14:66-72 — [66] And as Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant girls of the high priest came, [67] and seeing Peter warming himself, she looked at him and said, “You also were with the Nazarene, Jesus.” [68] But he denied it, saying, “I neither know nor understand what you mean.” And he went out into the gateway and the rooster crowed. [69] And the servant girl saw him and began again to say to the bystanders, “This man is one of them.” [70] But again he denied it. And after a little while the bystanders again said to Peter, “Certainly you are one of them, for you are a Galilean.” [71] But he began to invoke a curse on himself and to swear, “I do not know this man of whom you speak.” [72] And immediately the rooster crowed a second time. And Peter remembered how Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” And he broke down and wept.
• Gal. 2:11-12 — [11] But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned. [12] For before certain men came from James, he was eating with the Gentiles; but when they came he drew back and separated himself, fearing the circumcision party.
• Heb. 12:1 — [1] Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,
• Isa. 64:6 — [6] We have all become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment. We all fade like a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, take us away.
• Ex. 28:38 — [38] It shall be on Aaron's forehead, and Aaron shall bear any guilt from the holy things that the people of Israel consecrate as their holy gifts. It shall regularly be on his forehead, that they may be accepted before the LORD.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Rom. 7:18,23 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 6 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q36 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. HC Q86 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q36 · HC Q86 · BC 6.3 · BC 6.4 · BC 6.5

Q79. May not true believers, by reason of their imperfections, and the many temptations and sins they are overtaken with, fall away from the state of grace ?

True believers, by reason of the unchangeable love of God, and his decree and covenant to give them perseverance, their inseparable union with Christ, his continual intercession for them, and the Spirit and seed of God abiding in them, can neither totally nor finally fall away from the state of grace, but are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.

Proof texts

• Jer. 31:3 — [3] the LORD appeared to him from far away. I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you.
• 2 Tim. 2:19-21 — [19] But God's firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity.” [20] Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for honorable use, some for dishonorable. [21] Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work.
• 2 Sam. 23:5 — [5] “For does not my house stand so with God? For he has made with me an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things and secure. For will he not cause to prosper all my help and my desire?
• 1 Cor. 1:8-9 — [8] who will sustain you to the end, guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. [9] God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
• Heb. 7:25 — [25] Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.
• Luke 22:32 — [32] but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.”
• 1 John 2:27 — [27] But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie — just as it has taught you, abide in him.
• 1 John 3:9 — [9] No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God's seed abides in him; and he cannot keep on sinning, because he has been born of God.
• Jer. 32:40 — [40] I will make with them an everlasting covenant, that I will not turn away from doing good to them. And I will put the fear of me in their hearts, that they may not turn from me.
• John 10:28 — [28] I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.
• 1 Pet. 1:5 — [5] who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Jer. 31:3 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 11 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. CD 4.1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. The Assembly divided over this: The Perseverance of the Saints. Can the truly regenerate finally fall from grace? What turns on the answer?

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CD 4.1

Q80. Can true believers be infallibly assured that they are in the estate of grace, and that they shall persevere therein unto salvation?

Such as truly believe in Christ, and endeavor to walk in all good conscience before him, may, without extraordinary revelation, by faith grounded upon the truth of God's promises, and by the Spirit enabling them to discern in themselves those graces to which the promises of life are made, and bearing witness with their spirits that they are the children of God, be infallibly assured that they are in the estate of grace, and shall persevere therein unto salvation.

Proof texts

• 1 John 2:3 — [3] And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments.
• 1 Cor. 2:12 — [12] Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God.
• 1 John 3:14,18-19,21,24 — [14] We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brothers. Whoever does not love abides in death. [18] Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth. [19] By this we shall know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him; [21] Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence before God; [24] Whoever keeps his commandments abides in God, and God in him. And by this we know that he abides in us, by the Spirit whom he has given us.
• 1 John 4:13,16 — [13] By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. [16] So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.
• Heb. 6:11-12 — [11] And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end, [12] so that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
• Rom. 8:16 — [16] The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,
• 1 John 5:13 — [13] I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited 1 John 2:3 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 7 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. CD 4.1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. The Assembly divided over this: Assurance: Of the Essence of Saving Faith?. Does every true believer have full assurance, or is assurance a separate gift? What turns on the answer?

Read alongside

CD 4.1

Q81. Are all true believers at all times assured of their present being in the estate of grace, and that they shall be saved?

Assurance of grace and salvation not being of the essence of faith, true believers may wait long before they obtain it; and, after the enjoyment thereof, may have it weakened and intermitted, through manifold distempers, sins, temptations, and desertions; yet are they never left without such a presence and support of the Spirit of God as keeps them from sinking into utter despair.

Proof texts

• Eph. 1:13 — [13] In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit,
• Isa. 50:10 — [10] Who among you fears the LORD and obeys the voice of his servant? Let him who walks in darkness and has no light trust in the name of the LORD and rely on his God.
• Ps. 88 — [1] O LORD, God of my salvation, I cry out day and night before you. [2] Let my prayer come before you; incline your ear to my cry! [3] For my soul is full of troubles, and my life draws near to Sheol. [4] I am counted among those who go down to the pit; I am a man who has no strength, [5] like one set loose among the dead, like the slain that lie in the grave, like those whom you remember no more, for they are cut off from your hand. [6] You have put me in the depths of the pit, in the regions dark and deep. [7] Your wrath lies heavy upon me, and you overwhelm me with all your waves. <i>Selah</i> [8] You have caused my companions to shun me; you have made me a horror to them. I am shut in so that I cannot escape; [9] my eye grows dim through sorrow. Every day I call upon you, O LORD; I spread out my hands to you. [10] Do you work wonders for the dead? Do the departed rise up to praise you? <i>Selah</i> [11] Is your steadfast love declared in the grave, or your faithfulness in Abaddon? [12] Are your wonders known in the darkness, or your righteousness in the land of forgetfulness? [13] But I, O LORD, cry to you; in the morning my prayer comes before you. [14] O LORD, why do you cast my soul away? Why do you hide your face from me? [15] Afflicted and close to death from my youth up, I suffer your terrors; I am helpless. [16] Your wrath has swept over me; your dreadful assaults destroy me. [17] They surround me like a flood all day long; they close in on me together. [18] You have caused my beloved and my friend to shun me; my companions have become darkness.
• Ps. 22:1 — [1] My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning?
• Ps. 31:22 — [22] I had said in my alarm, “I am cut off from your sight.” But you heard the voice of my pleas for mercy when I cried to you for help.
• Ps. 51:8,12 — [8] Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones that you have broken rejoice. [12] Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.
• Ps. 77:1-12 — [1] I cry aloud to God, aloud to God, and he will hear me. [2] In the day of my trouble I seek the Lord; in the night my hand is stretched out without wearying; my soul refuses to be comforted. [3] When I remember God, I moan; when I meditate, my spirit faints. <i>Selah</i> [4] You hold my eyelids open; I am so troubled that I cannot speak. [5] I consider the days of old, the years long ago. [6] I said, “Let me remember my song in the night; let me meditate in my heart.” Then my spirit made a diligent search: [7] “Will the Lord spurn forever, and never again be favorable? [8] Has his steadfast love forever ceased? Are his promises at an end for all time? [9] Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has he in anger shut up his compassion?” <i>Selah</i> [10] Then I said, “I will appeal to this, to the years of the right hand of the Most High.” [11] I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. [12] I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds.
• Song 5:2-3,6 — [2] I slept, but my heart was awake. A sound! My beloved is knocking. “Open to me, my sister, my love, my dove, my perfect one, for my head is wet with dew, my locks with the drops of the night.” [3] I had put off my garment; how could I put it on? I had bathed my feet; how could I soil them? [6] I opened to my beloved, but my beloved had turned and gone. My soul failed me when he spoke. I sought him, but found him not; I called him, but he gave no answer.
• 1 John 3:9 — [9] No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God's seed abides in him; and he cannot keep on sinning, because he has been born of God.
• Job 13:15 — [15] Though he slay me, I will hope in him; yet I will argue my ways to his face.
• Ps. 73:15,23 — [15] If I had said, “I will speak thus,” I would have betrayed the generation of your children. [23] Nevertheless, I am continually with you; you hold my right hand.
• Isa. 54:7-10 — [7] For a brief moment I deserted you, but with great compassion I will gather you. [8] In overflowing anger for a moment I hid my face from you, but with everlasting love I will have compassion on you,” says the LORD, your Redeemer. [9] “This is like the days of Noah to me: as I swore that the waters of Noah should no more go over the earth, so I have sworn that I will not be angry with you, and will not rebuke you. [10] For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed,” says the LORD, who has compassion on you.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Eph. 1:13 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 12 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. CD 4.1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. The Assembly divided over this: Assurance: Of the Essence of Saving Faith?. Does every true believer have full assurance, or is assurance a separate gift? What turns on the answer?

Read alongside

CD 4.1

Q82. What is the communion in glory which the members of the invisible church have with Christ?

The communion in glory which the members of the invisible church have with Christ, is in this life, immediately after death, and at last perfected at the resurrection and day of judgment.

Proof texts

• 2 Cor. 3:18 — [18] And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.
• Luke 23:43 — [43] And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
• 1 Thess. 4:17 — [17] Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited 2 Cor. 3:18 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 3 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q37 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WSC Q38 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q37 · WSC Q38 · BC 9.1 · BC 9.2

Q83. What is the communion in glory with Christ which the members of the invisible church enjoy in this life?

The members of the invisible church have communicated to them in this life the firstfruits of glory with Christ, as they are members of him their head, and so in him are interested in that glory which he is fully possessed of; and, as an earnest thereof, enjoy the sense of God's love, peace of conscience, joy in the Holy Ghost, and hope of glory; as, on the contrary, sense of God's revenging wrath, horror of conscience, and a fearful expectation of judgment, are to the wicked the beginning of their torments which they shall endure after death.

Proof texts

• Eph. 2:5 — [5] even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ — by grace you have been saved —
• Rom. 5:5 — [5] and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.
• 2 Cor. 1:22 — [22] and who has also put his seal on us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.
• Rom. 5:1-2 — [1] Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. [2] Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
• Rom. 14:17 — [17] For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
• Gen. 4:13 — [13] Cain said to the LORD, “My punishment is greater than I can bear.
• Matt. 27:4 — [4] saying, “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood.” They said, “What is that to us? See to it yourself.”
• Heb. 10:27 — [27] but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries.
• Rom. 2:9 — [9] There will be tribulation and distress for every human being who does evil, the Jew first and also the Greek,
• Mark 9:44

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Eph. 2:5 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 10 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q37 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WSC Q38 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q37 · WSC Q38 · WCF 32.1 · BC 9.1 · BC 9.2 · 1689 31.1

Q84. Shall all men die?

Death being threatened as the wages of sin, it is appointed unto all men once to die; for that all have sinned.

Proof texts

• Rom. 6:23 — [23] For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
• Heb. 9:27 — [27] And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment,
• Rom. 5:12 — [12] Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned —

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Rom. 6:23 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 3 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q38 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. BC 9.1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q38 · BC 9.1 · BC 9.2 · 1689 31.1

Q85. Death, being the wages of sin, why are not the righteous delivered from death, seeing all their sins are forgiven in Christ?

The righteous shall be delivered from death itself at the last day, and even in death are delivered from the sting and curse of it; so that, although they die, yet it is out of God's love, to free them perfectly from sin and misery, and to make them capable of further communion with Christ in glory, which they then enter upon.

Proof texts

• 1 Cor. 15:26,55-57 — [26] The last enemy to be destroyed is death. [55] “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” [56] The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. [57] But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
• Heb. 2:15 — [15] and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery.
• Isa. 57:1-2 — [1] The righteous man perishes, and no one lays it to heart; devout men are taken away, while no one understands. For the righteous man is taken away from calamity; [2] he enters into peace; they rest in their beds who walk in their uprightness.
• 2 Kings 22:20 — [20] Therefore, behold, I will gather you to your fathers, and you shall be gathered to your grave in peace, and your eyes shall not see all the disaster that I will bring upon this place.’” And they brought back word to the king.
• Rev. 14:13 — [13] And I heard a voice from heaven saying, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Blessed indeed,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them!”
• Eph. 5:27 — [27] so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish.
• Luke 23:43 — [43] And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
• Phil. 1:23 — [23] I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited 1 Cor. 15:26,55-57 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 8 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q38 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. BC 9.1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q38 · BC 9.1 · BC 9.2 · 1689 31.1

Q86. What is the communion in glory with Christ, which the members of the invisible church enjoy immediately after death ?

The communion in glory with Christ, which the members of the invisible church enjoy immediately after death, is, in that their souls are then made perfect in holiness, and received into the highest heavens, where they behold the face of God in light and glory, waiting for the full redemption of their bodies, which even in death continue united to Christ, and rest in their graves as in their beds, till at the last day they be again united to their souls. Whereas the souls of the wicked are at their death cast into hell, where they remain in torments and utter darkness, and their bodies kept in their graves, as in their prisons, till the resurrection and judgment of the great day.

Proof texts

• Heb. 12:23 — [23] and to the assembly of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, and to God, the judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous made perfect,
• 2 Cor. 5:1,6,8 — [1] For we know that if the tent that is our earthly home is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. [6] So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, [8] Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord.
• Phil. 1:23 — [23] I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better.
• Acts 3:21 — [21] whom heaven must receive until the time for restoring all the things about which God spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets long ago.
• Eph. 4:10 — [10] He who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.)
• 1 John 3:2 — [2] Beloved, we are God's children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.
• 1 Cor. 13:12 — [12] For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.
• Rom. 8:23 — [23] And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.
• Ps. 16:9 — [9] Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure.
• 1 Thess. 4:14 — [14] For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.
• Isa. 57:2 — [2] he enters into peace; they rest in their beds who walk in their uprightness.
• Job 19:26-27 — [26] And after my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God, [27] whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold, and not another. My heart faints within me!
• Luke 16:23-24 — [23] and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side. [24] And he called out, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am in anguish in this flame.’
• Acts 1:25 — [25] to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place.”
• Jude 1:6-7 — [6] And the angels who did not stay within their own position of authority, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains under gloomy darkness until the judgment of the great day — [7] just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities, which likewise indulged in sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire, serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Heb. 12:23 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 15 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q38 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. BC 9.1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q38 · BC 9.1 · BC 9.2 · 1689 31.1

Q87. What are we to believe concerning the resurrection?

We are to believe, that at the last day there shall be a general resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust: when they that are then found alive shall in a moment be changed; and the selfsame bodies of the dead which were laid in the grave, being then again united to their souls forever, shall be raised up by the power of Christ. The bodies of the just, by the Spirit of Christ, and by virtue of his resurrection as their head, shall be raised in power, spiritual, incorruptible, and made like to his glorious body; and the bodies of the wicked shall be raised up in dishonor by him, as an offended judge.

Proof texts

• Acts 24:15 — [15] having a hope in God, which these men themselves accept, that there will be a resurrection of both the just and the unjust.
• 1 Cor. 15:51-53 — [51] Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, [52] in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. [53] For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality.
• 1 Thess. 4:15-17 — [15] For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. [16] For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. [17] Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.
• John 5:28-29 — [28] Do not marvel at this, for an hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice [29] and come out, those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment.
• 1 Cor. 15:21-23,42-44 — [21] For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead. [22] For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. [23] But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ. [42] So is it with the resurrection of the dead. What is sown is perishable; what is raised is imperishable. [43] It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness; it is raised in power. [44] It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body.
• Phil. 3:21 — [21] who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.
• John 5:27-29 — [27] And he has given him authority to execute judgment, because he is the Son of Man. [28] Do not marvel at this, for an hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice [29] and come out, those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment.
• Matt. 25:33 — [33] And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Acts 24:15 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 8 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q37 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WCF 32.1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

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WSC Q37 · WCF 32.1 · BC 9.1 · BC 9.2 · 1689 31.1

Q88. What shall immediately follow after the resurrection?

Immediately after the resurrection shall follow the general and final judgment of angels and men; the day and hour whereof no man knows, that all may watch and pray, and be ever ready for the coming of the Lord.

Proof texts

• 2 Pet. 2:4 — [4] For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but cast them into hell and committed them to chains of gloomy darkness to be kept until the judgment;
• Jude 1:6-7,14-15 — [6] And the angels who did not stay within their own position of authority, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains under gloomy darkness until the judgment of the great day — [7] just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities, which likewise indulged in sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire, serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire. [14] It was also about these that Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied, saying, “Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of his holy ones, [15] to execute judgment on all and to convict all the ungodly of all their deeds of ungodliness that they have committed in such an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things that ungodly sinners have spoken against him.”
• Matt. 25:46 — [46] And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”
• Matt. 24:36,42,44 — [36] “But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only. [42] Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. [44] Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.
• Luke 21:35-36 — [35] For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth. [36] But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited 2 Pet. 2:4 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 5 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q37 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WCF 32.1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q37 · WCF 32.1 · BC 9.1 · BC 9.2 · 1689 31.1

Q89. What shall be done to the wicked at the day of judgment?

At the day of judgment, the wicked shall be set on Christ's left hand, and, upon clear evidence, and full conviction of their own consciences, shall have the fearful but just sentence of condemnation pronounced against them; and thereupon shall be cast out from the favorable presence of God, and the glorious fellowship with Christ, his saints, and all his holy angels, into hell, to be punished with unspeakable torments, both of body and soul, with the devil and his angels forever.

Proof texts

• Matt. 25:33 — [33] And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left.
• Rom. 2:15-16 — [15] They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, while their conscience also bears witness, and their conflicting thoughts accuse or even excuse them [16] on that day when, according to my gospel, God judges the secrets of men by Christ Jesus.
• Matt. 25:41-43 — [41] “Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. [42] For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, [43] I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’
• Luke 16:26 — [26] And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and none may cross from there to us.’
• 2 Thess. 1:8-9 — [8] in flaming fire, inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. [9] They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might,

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Matt. 25:33 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 5 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q37 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WCF 32.1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q37 · WCF 32.1 · BC 9.1 · BC 9.2 · 1689 31.1

Q90. What shall be done to the righteous at the day of judgment?

At the day of judgment, the righteous, being caught up to Christ in the clouds, shall be set on his right hand, and there openly acknowledged and acquitted, shall join with him in the judging of reprobate angels and men, and shall be received into heaven, where they shall be fully and forever freed from all sin and misery; filled with inconceivable joys, made perfectly holy and happy both in body and soul, in the company of innumerable saints and holy angels, but especially in the immediate vision and fruition of God the Father, of our Lord Jesus Christ, and of the Holy Spirit, to all eternity. And this is the perfect and full communion, which the members of the invisible church shall enjoy with Christ in glory, at the resurrection and day of judgment.

Proof texts

• 1 Thess. 4:17 — [17] Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.
• Matt. 10:32 — [32] So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven,
• Matt. 25:33 — [33] And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left.
• 1 Cor. 6:2-3 — [2] Or do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if the world is to be judged by you, are you incompetent to try trivial cases? [3] Do you not know that we are to judge angels? How much more, then, matters pertaining to this life!
• Matt. 25:34,46 — [34] Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. [46] And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”
• Eph. 5:27 — [27] so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish.
• Rev. 14:13 — [13] And I heard a voice from heaven saying, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Blessed indeed,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them!”
• Ps. 16:11 — [11] You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
• Heb. 12:22-23 — [22] But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to innumerable angels in festal gathering, [23] and to the assembly of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, and to God, the judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous made perfect,
• 1 John 3:2 — [2] Beloved, we are God's children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.
• 1 Cor. 13:12 — [12] For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.
• 1 Thess. 4:17-18 — [17] Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. [18] Therefore encourage one another with these words.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited 1 Thess. 4:17 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 12 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q37 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WCF 32.1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q37 · WCF 32.1 · BC 9.1 · BC 9.2 · 1689 31.1