A collection of certaine learned discourses, written by that famous man of memory Zachary Ursine; doctor and professor of divinitie in the noble and flourishing schools of Neustad. For explication of divers difficult points, laide downe by that author in his catechisme. Lately put in print in Latin by the last labour of D. David Parry: and now newlie translated into English, by I.H. for the benefit and behoofe of our Christian country-man

AN ORATION OF D. ZACHARY VRSINE, exhorting to the study of Christianity: pro∣nounced by him in the ELIZABETH Schoole when he began his Lectures vpon PHI∣LIP MELANCTHON his groundes of Divinitie intituled Eramen Theologicum. {inverted ⁂}

SInce by advise of your re∣gents and overseers in stu∣dy, I haue beene wished to deliuer vnto you some short summe of Christia∣nity, I must acknowledge my weakenesse farre vna∣ble to support a burden of such waight. For this is a doctrine ever past vnderstanding not only of the most wise and sharpe-sighted of this worlde (vn∣lesse instructed by the voice of the Church and power of the holy Spirit) but for a great part vn∣knowen even to the Angels themselues, vntill it pleased the sonne of God to reveale it out of the deepe wisedome of his eternal father, which if all

the wits and tongues of men and angels shoulde straine themselues to vnfold and grace with curi∣osity of stile and depth of invention, they coulde never be able to speake any thing correspondent to the dignity and deserte of so diuine a subiect. Being therefore to my selfe guilty of mine owne defects, I had rather leaue this labour to some o∣ther, who might more worthily attempt, & more happily perfourme it then my selfe: but conside∣ring againe the place and person I sustaine, I haue thought it my duty to do you al service in furthe∣ring your salvation, & to shew obedience to God inviting me to these religious labours, and promi∣sing (which is the chiefest thing) his gracious assi∣stance, which who so enioieth neede not despaire of any thing, for it pleaseth God to shew his migh∣ty power in weake and abiect instruments, accor∣ding to that of the Psalmist, Out of the mouth of babes & sucklings hast thou ordeined strength, because of thine enemies, that thou mightest still the enemy and the avenger. Psal. 8. 3. The worde which he vseth signifieth a childe which beginneth to speake & vnderstand. But it is a thing vsual to attribute the name of children, not vnto those only which are so in years, but vnto those also which are such in vn∣derstanding or doing ought besides. They also which are infants in years, are sufficient witnesses of Gods goodnesse and providence. The mani∣fest tokens of Gods presence in miraculous propa∣gation, preservation, & sustaining of mankind do sufficiently refell and ••efute Di••••••s and Ath••sts of

al sortes, both such as deny at all that there is any God, and such as doe not acknowledge him to be such a God as he professeth himselfe to bee. But Christ in 21. of Mat. 16. v. draweth this place to a confession, in which sence it agreeth to vs al, euen as many as thincke or speake ought of God. For we are infantes in vnderstanding & vtter∣ance of all heauenly things. Wee learne in this life some smale rudiments of them, as truly and religiously saith the Emperour Gratian in his con∣fession to Ambrose: Wee speake of God so much, not as we ought, but as we can. Yea even the Prophets and Apostles confesse as much of them selues. As 1 Cor. 13. 9. Wee know imperfectly & we prophecie imperfectly. But when that which is perfect shall come, then that which is vnperfect shall be abolished. And in the ••2 ver. Now we see through a glasse darkely, But then shall wee see face to face.

But though both those rudiments which wee learne be feawe, & the word of preachinge bee plained to our capacitie, wherein God himselfe speaketh to vs as vnto infants, & suffereth vs to speake like infantes of himselfe, yet will God so exact of vs in this life skill in this doctrine of him∣selfe, that otherwise he giueth vs no hope of an other life, & these rudiments (how simple so euer) do so farre exceede all humaine wisedome, that betwixt the one and the other is no compa∣rison. For these principles or groundes are a wise∣dome vnknowne to reason, necessary & sufficiēt to everlasting saluation. Let vs, therefore not on∣ly

acknowledge our infancie, but also shew our selues willing to be reckned in the number of sucklings & infants. For as the childe groweth not that is not sustained with the mothers milke or o∣ther conuenient norishment: so neither must we refuse the milke of Gods worde, whereby we are norished and susteined vnto eternall life, least we be put besides all hope of our perfection. This is that spirituall infancy,* 1.1 pleasing God as Christ witnesseth when he rebuketh the Pharises which were offended at the children singing in the tēple Hosanna to the sonne of Dauid. These are those in∣fantes, in whose wordes it pleaseth him to bee powerfull, by whose mouth, as the psalme ad∣deth, he perfiteth his strength, or (as they translate it who consider the originall) he stablisheth his kingdome. But he speaketh of that strength or king∣dome which is seene in this life:* 1.2 which is for the son of God to appoint & vphould his ministrie, to gather his dispersed church, to quicken the faithfull beleeuers by the preaching of the Gos∣pell, to sanctifie them by the holy spirite vnto eternall life, to protect his church in this life a∣gainst the kingdome of Satan, after this life to raise vp the faithfull vnto life eternall, that in thē his Deitie may raigne openly, not by ministry.

What the foundation of this kingdome is Saint Paule teacheth, 1. Cor. 3. 11. saying, Other foundati∣on can no man lay then that which is said, which is Iesus Christ. The foundation is Christ, first in his per∣son, for that he beareth, keepeth and comprehen∣deth

all the members and parts of this kingdome, vnited and ingraffed in him, as doth the founda∣tion al other partes of the building, or as doth the vine all the branches: •• then to the doctrine of him∣selfe, that is of his person and office. For as good lawes are the strength and sinewes of kingdomes politique; so this kingdome is composed, confir∣med and ordered by this doctrine deliuered of Christ. And as the house cannot stande without the foundation, so except we know who Christ is, and what he hath perfourmed for our sakes, al re∣ligion besides is but vaine, forged, none at all.

This foundation is laid by the mouth of sucke∣lings and b••bes which beleeue, and being ••••red vp by the holy Ghost doe learne & embrace the doctrine which they hea••e & so grow into Christ, in whom they be ingraffed.

In this weighty worke God vouchsafeth to vse our infancy for an instrument, to the advancemēt of his glory (whilest the weightines of the worke, and weakenesse of the instrumentes doe plainely shew, that all this is done not by our strength; but by the power and might of the almighty God:) and also to abate the pride of his enemies, whilest their might and power is surpassed by our weak∣nesse, and our shew of wisedome doth in the ende shew that nothing is more foolish then their wis∣dome, as it is said; your strength shall be in silence and hope. For the son of God destroieth the workes of the Devill, deliuering those that beleeue from his tyranny, pardoning and putting away their sins,

beginning in them righteousnesse & life eternal, defending his church, accusing & discovering the malice of his enemies, repressing & punishing thē both now, and in the finall delivery of his church from all evils. And all this (manger the gates of hell) he doth partly bring to passe and partly te∣stifie by the vnworthy & simple mouthes of mē; as it is said 2. Cor. 10. v. 4 The weapons of our wa••far•• are not carnal, but mighty through God to cast dovvne boldes, casting downe the imaginations, and eve••e high thing that is exalted against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ, And having ready the vengance against all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.

As therefore the basenesse of the vessell doth not preiudice the preciousenesse of the merchan∣dize therin conteined: so neither must you dis∣daine the meanesse and infancy of him that deli∣vereth this doctrine vnto you, as derogatinge ought from the weight of those reasons, which shall be alleadged to perswade you to the seriouse studie of Christian religion.* 1.3 But purposing forth∣with to recite some of them, I find my selfe so plunged in the depth therof, that I can hardely resolue where to beginne. Yet because I must of necessitie handle some of them, let that be the first which should be the rule of all our actions & studies,* 1.4 namely the will of GOD reuealed in his word. For we now conferre togeather which are fellow-citizens of the church. Knowing for certaine that the bookes of the Prophets and

Apostles are sure interpreters of Gods will and purpose. In them are preceptes everie where de∣livered and repeated, commaunding without exception to search & know the doctrine there∣in conteined. This is that precept of the sabaoth deliuered in the ten commaundements, this is that whereof our sauiour saide in the 10 of Luc. 42. v. that one thing was necessarie. This is that wis∣dome whose knowledg he saith is eternall life: this Dauid commēdeth, as in many other places, so in the first psalme, where he layeth downe as it were a breife therof. But this our heauenly fa∣ther, mercifull to mankinde, & carefull for our saluation thought not sufficient; he added there∣fore a peculiar charge of proposing a sūme of this doctrine vnto all, especially the younger sorte, & this▪ is that which wee terme Catechizinge. As Deuter. 4. 9. Thou shalt (saith he) teach thy sonnes. And Deuter. 6. & 11. Lay vp these wordes in your heartes & in your mindes, and hange them for a signe in your handes, & place your eies thereon. Teach thy children to meditate in them, when thou sittest in thine house, & wa••kest in the waie, & when thou liest downe, & when thou rizest vp. Thou shalt wright them vpon the postes and dores of thine house, that thy daies and thy childrens daies may be multiplied in the land. Here we see parents & those which are ••nsteed of pa∣rents are commaunded to teach, & prouide that there be teaching: the yonger sort to learne; both sorts daily to inculcate, repeate, & meditate vpō this doctrine. Now whereas he will that this doc∣trine

should be deliuered to our children, & al∣waies placed before our eies, it is plaine that he requireth breuitie and perspicuitie, that is a cate∣chisme or shorte summe of Christianitie, with an exposition neyther tediouse nor difficult. So Paule 2. Tim. 1. v. 13. Keepe the trew paterne of whol∣some words, which thou hast heard of me in faith and loue, which is in Christ Iesus. Heere together with the definition of our Catechisme, we haue the ex∣ercise and practize therof commaunded.

This trew paterne wherof the Apostle speaketh doth signifie trew sentences of each parte of this doctrine.* 1.5 breifly and orderly comprized, & as it were presented to our view: with a forme of teach¦ing and speaking that is proper, plaine, and suta∣ble to the wrightinges of the Prophets & Apo∣stles. Wherupon he nameth them wholsome wordes deliuered by himselfe in faith,* 1.6 or concerninge faith and loue which is in Christ, that is in the acknowledging of Christ: as euerie where he reduceth all pietie & religion to faith and charitie. The Catchisme ther∣fore is a sūme of the doctrine of faith and loue in Christ, deliuered by the Prophets and apostles. Or A summe of Christianitie, breifely, orderly, and plainely comprized. For we must not deuise a doctrine of our owne, but of necessitie referre our selues (as it is said E∣sai the 8. v. 20.) to the lawe and to the testimonie. But hereunto also must be added an exposition, to vnfolde truely the partes and method, and to interpret plainly the wordes and phrase.

This reason alone might be sufficient to stirre

vp mē not prophāely minded,* 1.7 to the study of this heavenly doctrine.* 1.8 For to such the wil and com∣mandement of GOD is sufficient though there were no other reason besides. But since it hath pleased our merciful God to yeeld vnto our weak∣nes some reasons why he hath giuen vs this com∣mandement, it behoueth vs to consider of them with all reuerence. Now God teacheth vs that we must therefore learne this doctrine, because by knowledge thereof, & no other meanes, he pur∣poseth to convert & saue all those, who through age are able to vnderstand, and amongst thē such as shal be heires of eternall life. It is a confident & strange saying of Saint Paule Rom. 1. 16. The gos∣pell is the power of God vnto salvation to every one that beleeveth. And 1. Cor. 1. 18. For the preaching of the crosse is to them that perish foolishnesse: but to vs which are saved it is the power of God. And in the same chapter the 21. v. It pleased God by the foolishnesse of preaching to saue them that beleeue.

But this opinion as it is delivered & confirmed by many & weighty testimonies of the holy Spi∣rit:* 1.9 so it is very forcibly impugned by the Devill. For the Father of lyes seeing that this paradox of the foolish preaching of the crosse did not a little possesse the mindes of men, tooke occasion to in∣cite brainsicke heads to say that this our teaching was in no wise a meane to convert soules, but that God without meanes did imparte and communi∣cate himselfe to vs, and that we did but make an idoll of our own words, and here they power out

wonderful words, seeming in shew very glorious. But harken (I pray you) and consider vpon what grounds they stand. God (say they) needeth not at all this voice of ours, either ministry, reading, or meditation, to convert men: therefore he vseth no such meane, neither is the learning therof ne∣cessary to salvatiō. Now therfore (I speake to you which are children) is there any amongst you of so shallow and childish conceite which will not skorne him that shal reason in this sort? God by his omnipotency can easily bring to passe, that a man without bookes, or teachers, or study may become learned (as the Apostles & others in the primitiue church did speake with tongues which they neuer learned) he can make the earth fruit∣full without labour of the husband-man, hee can susteine mans nature without meate, as hee did Moses and Christ forty daies: and therefore it is a labour vnnecessary, (not a meanes to compasse what we wish and expect) either for schollers to busie themselues about bookes and study, and to go to their instructors & schooles, or for husband men to manure their grounde, or for any of vs to spend our life in susteining our life. Doe you see vpon what rockes of blindnesse and distraction the Divell doth driue these vnhappy men, who hauing neuer learned the grounds of godlines or good artes, nor loving the labour & toile of lear∣ning, would notwithstāding seeme what they are not, desiring to extol thēselues against the know∣ledge of God, not doubting to subiect the eternal

wisdom to their vile censures? for they shew them selues as wel witles, as shameles, in alleaging exā∣ples either of such as by miracle were cōuerted, as Paule, or endewed with giftes extaordinarie, as the Apostles in the Pētecost: or of many hearing the Gospell & not beleeuing, or lastly in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 such places of scripture as pre••ch vnto vs the power and office of the holy Ghost. We know (God be thanked) & confesse, the God can without helpe eyther of teachers or learners cō∣verte whom he will, and that the end and vse of miracles is this, to shew that the order of nature (wherin he is powerfull) was by him before crea∣ted, and is still by him most freely preserued. We know further, that the conuertinge of soules is the gifte of God aboue, so that looke how much greater and more miraculouse a worke it is to re∣store man being lost vnto salvation, then to cre∣ate him of nothing, so much more impudency & madnesse is it rather to attribute our redemption then our creation to the force & efficacie of mans wordes. This also we know, that it pleased God by foolish preaching to saue those that beleeue, why it hath so pleased him, although he need not make vs accoumpt, yet is he content to yeeld vs some reasons ever of this his purpose, though he propose not the like reasons to the godly and vn∣godly.* 1.10 To the vngodly he yeeldeth this reasō, be∣cause his iustice in cōdemning their malice, which resist the word reueald, should be more manifest in sight of the whole church, their consciences al∣so

bearing witnesse. But we may also consider o∣ther causes, which make for our instruction and comforte. Wheras the voice of the ministrie and all our conceipt of God is vailed with darkenesse, wherin we now behould God, and know his plea∣sure, hence he admonisheth vs of the greatenesse of our fal, whereby it is come to passe that now we enioy not the presence of God, dealing with vs as it were a far of & by interpreters, stirring vs vp to aspire vnto that heavenly schoole wherein God will be seene of vs face to face, and shal be al in al. Besides God in this life will haue the searching, meditation, and confession of this doctrine tou∣ching himselfe and his will, not to bee concealed in the mindes of men, but to bee openly sounded and celebrated, and therefore on his authority he hath bound vs to a necessity of knowing it, pro∣mising thereby to restore vs to salvation. Further∣more, being willing to haue vs fellow-labourers in the most excellent of his divine workes, wherein could he better shew his loue to vs miserable cre∣atures, except in giving his only begotten sonne a ransome for our sinnes? wee therefore affirme, the reading, hearing, and knowing of this do∣ctrine, to be a necessary instrument of our salva∣tion; not in respect of GOD, but in regarde of our selues: not because GOD coulde not otherwise haue converted vs (as the builder cannot builde an house without his tooles) but because he would not otherwise doe it. True faith is indeede the gift and worke of none but GOD

onely, yet so that it is wrought in vs by the holy Ghost through the hearing of Gods word. Pauls planteth, Apollos watereth, but God giueth en∣crease. And when Paule tearmeth the gospel prea∣ched by him the power of God vnto saluation to as ma∣ny as beleeue; & Ephes. 4. v. 11. He gaue some to bee Apostles and Prophets, and some Evangelists & some pastors and teachers, for the gathering togeather of the sainctes, for the worke of the ministerie, for the edifica∣tion of the bodie of Christ; can any more gloriouse worde be spoken concerning the office of tea∣ching? let not vs therfore presume to be wiser thē God, let not vs forsake thinges ordinarie to fol∣low thinges extraordinarie, neyther let vs so much esteeme the pride and reprobate coniuma∣cie of such as contemne the voice of the Gospell, that we lesse regard and reuerence the force and fruit of Gods ordinance in his instrumēts of mer∣cie; as neither the sloth and peruerse peeuishnes of some schollars, being baries to profit and all good proceedings, can perswade others, that in∣struction and study are things vnnecessary to the attaining and encrease of learning and vertue: but let vs rather with al submission and thankefulnes embrace this sweetest comforte, whereby we are assured that our labours please God, and are not vndertakē by vs in vaine: according to those say∣ings Eccles. 11. 1. Cast thy ••read vpon the waters, for after long time thou shalt finde it againe. 1. Cor. 15. 58. Your labour is not in vaine in the Lorde. Mat. 18. 20. Wheresoeuer two or three are gathered togither in my

••ame, I am in the middest of thē. Were not these pro∣mises wel knowne vnto vs, and certaine in them∣selues, in this so great fury of Satan and misery of mankinde, our best teachers and most careful fur∣therers of the publique salvation were in conditiō most vnhappy, & could not maintaine this place without great difficulty. I truly for mine own part knowing my selfe to be of no reckoning, feele my selfe so surprised with sorrowe, that for griefe I should nether be able to abide this place, nor giue passage to my speech, did not I certainely know, that evē in this cōpany there ar some, whose harts receiue and approue true & wholsome doctrine, & are by the holy Spirite inflamed with desire of acknowledging and worshipping God aright, & are living temples of God, such as shall hereafter glorifie him with the Angels in heauen. Neither do I so speake this as if I did expect that all men should haue like knowledge of this doctrine, and equal giftes of the holy Ghost without difference (for Saint Paule willeth vs in the 12. to the Ro∣maines to bee wise according to that measure of faith which God hath given to every man) but it is necessary that al which look to be saved should hold the same foundatiō, that is, they must know and beleeue what Christ is, and what he hath per∣fourmed for every of vs, as it is said by Iohn the 17. cap. & 3. v. This is life everlasting, to know that thou art the only true god, & whō thou hast sent Iesus Christ. Ioh. 3. 36. He that beleeveth in the senne hath eternall life. By these and other such like sentences we vn∣derstande,

that it is a true saying, which Dionysi•••• (falsly sirnamed Areop••gita, but indeed supposed to be of Corinth) doth attribute to the Apostle S. B••rtolme, The gospell is short and long. The shortnes thereof is manifest, excelling therein the lawe of Moses, and this ought and may be rooted in eve∣ry of our harts and minds, which is the reason why a briefe of the gospell is so often deliuered & re∣peated by the Prophets and Apostles. But the wisedome of the gospell will far more hardly bee sounded and searched through all eternity then that of the law. But knowing for certainty that we must in this mortality begin our eternal life (for we shal be cloathed vpon our cloathing if we be not found naked) the nature of true conversion is, ne∣ver to suffer those which are conuerted vnto God to rest in their race, but kindleth in them a perpetuall desire of of proceeding. Therefore is that commaundement giuen in the 2 of Peter 3. 18. Increase in grace & knowledg of our Lord & saui∣our Iesus Christ. & Ephes. 2. 19. Now therefore yee are no more strangers, but Citizens with the saintes, & of the houshould of God. And ar built vpon the founda∣tion of the Apostles & Prophets, Iesus Christ himselfe being the chiefe corner stone; in whome all the building coupled togeather groweth vnto an holy temple in the Lord. And Marc. 9. 24. He prayeth, Lord I be∣leeue, but helpe thou mine vnbeleife. And Luc. 17▪ 5. his disciples pray, Lorde encrease our faith. The godly are saide and commaunded to goe for∣warde, & do also pray themselues that they may

goe forwarde. They are not therfore of that sort of men which haue no desire to go forward. Yet must not such be discouraged, who finding in themselues lesse light & vigor do with true greife of hart acknowledge and bewaile their weaknes and curruption. For thus saith the eternall father of his son Esay. 42. 3. A bruized reede shall he not breake. & the smoking flax shall he not quench. And the son of his father M. 18▪ 14. It is not my fathers wil that any one of these litle ones should perish. & himselfe of hīself, Ioh. 6. 37. Al that the father giveth me shal come to me, and him that cōmeth to me I cast not away. Wheresoever is vnfeigned godlines, that cōmeth from God, and is by him furthered, and there vn∣to are linked by the indissoluble bande of Gods truth all the blessings of the gospell which are e∣ternal and without repentaunce. For did not the certainety of our faith and salvation depend vpō the free mercy of God alone, whereby he recea∣veth into favour all such as beleeue, and not vpō degrees of our renuing & amēdment, our cōfort (God knows) were built but on a weake founda∣tion.* 1.11 Hēce may be gathered three trials of a Chri∣stian man, first the embracing of this foundation, secōdly a desire of going forward (which two in∣clude every of vs vnder the vniversall promise of eternal salvatiō) thirdly this comfort, that for dif∣ference or inequ••lity of giftes & degrees we shall not be c••st of and suffered to perish, which com∣fort must be opposed to the griefe conce••ved ••p∣on our owne vnworthinesse. These 〈…〉〈…〉

can neuer be separated hath Saint Pauls compri∣sed in 1. Corinth. 3. ca. 11. v. saying, Other founda∣tion can no man lay then that which is laid, that is Iesus Christ. And if any man build on this foundation gold, sil∣ver, pretious stones, timber, hay or stubble, Every mans worke shal be made manifest; but he shal be safe himselfe, neverthelesse yet as it were by the fire. By this there∣fore, which hath hitherto beene spokē, it is mani∣fest, that Gods commaundement, and each mans particular salvation exhorteth and bindeth al mē, and amongst them the younger sort (which are a great part and seminary of the church) to learne aslone as their yeares will permit, this foundation of Christian doctrine: which most grauely and se∣verely admonisheth all such of this parte of their duty, who take vpon them the charge of instru∣cting youth.

For both teachers & learners are all debtors of diligent & serious care of preseruing pietie & religion;* 1.12 debters, not vnto our selues only, but to as many as are oures and belong any way vnto vs, yea and to all succeeding posteritie. For wee see by daily experience how easily in small processe of time manifolde defacings & corrup∣tions and at length finall & vtter abolishment o∣vertaketh that religion and doctrine, the summe whereof is not breifely and perspicuously set downe, knowne in publique, daily repeated, & beaten as it were into mens vnderstandings. Nei∣ther are we ignorant of the common prouerbe how the caske or barrell reteineth still the sauour and

smell which it first receiued be it good, or ill. Whereas then for the most parte the evill we learne taketh such deepe roote in vs, and cleaueth so fast vnto vs; and youth not being daily instructed and trai∣ned vp vnto pietie threatneth a barbarous con∣tempte of God, and profaning of religion to en∣sue in time to come; againe wheras scarcely by the greatest endeuour, and continuall care of go∣uernours we are wonne to any good, no man of discretion and iudgement but will grant that it is wisedome & our duty to attēpt betimes so weigh∣ty and difficult a matter.

The institution therefore of Catechisme is not only necessary for preseruing pure & sincere do∣ctrin with vs & our posterity after vs,* 1.13 but in regard of youth to whō (as hath already bin proved) it is to be imparted, because it is framed fit for their ca¦pacity. For if it be wel said of other arts wherin this age is to be informed, In al thy precepts vse such bre∣vity, that intelligēt wits may sone cōceiue, & faithfullie preserue them in memory: how much more is short¦nes and plainenesse to be affected and practised in this heavenly wisedome so strange vnto mans vnderstāding? especially whereas the testimonies of holy Scripture ratifie and confirme our experi∣ence herein,* 1.14 saying; Every one that vseth milke is in∣experte in the worde of righteousnes: hee is a babe. But strong meate belongeth to them that are of age. There∣fore both the Apostle Paule thus intimateth and signifieth vnto vs his maner of teaching,* 1.15 I gaue you milke to drinke, and not meate; for yee were not yet able

to beare it,* 1.16 neither yet now are yee able. For yee are yet carnall: and since the first preaching of the gospel in the church some notable argument or subiect of doctrine short and pithy, plaine and easie hath beene extant and derived vnto posterity. Inso∣much as certaine compendious summes delive∣red by Gods owne mouth seeme to bee of equall growth, and continuance with mankinde both of the law, as; If thou continue righteous, thou shalt be ac∣cepted: and also of the Gospell as, The seede of the woman shall breake the head of the serpent. So not long after the promise and the covenant was re∣peated vnto Abraham. Finally in processe of time certaine briefe Articles were published a∣broad in the Apostles writings, the forme and manner of confession of Christ and Christian Re∣ligion beeing proportionably applyed to that which GOD had revealed in every age. Fur∣ther that this our custome of teaching, which we call Catechisme, was practised both in the Primi∣tiue Church, and in the Apostles dayes, Paule witnesseth Romaines 2. verse 18. where hee tear∣meth the Iewes, instructed in the lawe from then childehoode and Galat. 6. 6. where he saith, let him that is taughte in the vvoorde make him that hath taught him, partaker of all his goods. Luke also in his 1. Chapter. verse 4. That thou mightest acknow∣ledge the certainetie of those thinges vvhereof thou hast beene instructed. For as much then as these testi∣monies are such as deserue to be preferred before all others, whereas the Authors of them imme∣diately

followed the Apostles times, I therefore instāce in no one example, supposing it to be ge∣nerally knowne out of the commō histories. I ra∣ther adde this, that if the primitiue Chruch being yet in her infancy, did with so great cōtancy ob∣serue and retaine this custome & forme of instru∣ction established, as we see, not by the counsel & advice of man, but the deepe wisedome and pro∣vidēce of God; how much more ought we in this doating age of the world, in which the church is ready to giue vp the ghost, & the light therof be∣ing extinguished, loathsome darkenes more and more ready to overshadow the whole world; how much more ought we,* 1.17 I say, adde vnto the small measure of our diligence in maintaining & advā∣cing the doctrine of the church, rather thē detract any the smallest portiō thereof. For this is that age of which it is spoken Mat. 24. v. 23. Then if any shal say vnto you;* 1.18 Lo here is Christ, or there, beleeue it not. For there shall arise false Christs, and false Prophets, and shall shew great signes and wonders, so that, if it were pos∣sible, they should deceiue the very elect. And Paule at large discourseth, 1. Tim. 4 & 2. Tim. 3. & Peter also in his 2. Ep. 23. c. of the iniquity & danger of these last troublesome time; by the illusiōs of the Divel wrought by the hands of those false prophets his supposts & proctors. Now these predictiōs of the miseries which are to befall these later daies are written & revealed vnto vs not only for our cōlo∣latiō & cōfirmatiō in the truth & faith of Christ: but to be a spur vnto vs that we cōtinue 〈…〉〈…〉,

and careful to provide such weapon & furniture as is requisite to the beating downe and razing to the ground the bulwarkes of all errours. For thus beginneth Christ this dolefull prophecy, Take heed that ••o man deceiue you.* 1.19 Let vs therfore thinke it necessary not only for them to whom is, or here after may be committed the charge of preaching & teaching in the Church, but for every particu∣lar man also which desireth to be saued, to haue a true concerte and opinion of every point of Chri∣stian Religion grounded and deepe rooted in his heart; to be fenced and fortified as strongly, as by all meanes he may, against sectes and heresies: & that they who haue received commission of go∣verning and teaching in the Church ought with great paine and travell either themselues teach & instruct, or take care that they who are commit∣ted to their cure and charge be taught and instru∣cted in al these; vnlesse they had rather as vnfaith full and carelesse stewards and dispensers of the word giue an account of the destruction of their flocke. Wherin the entire good affection of your parentes is worthy high commendation, in that they haue taken especiall order for your daily in∣struction in the principles of religion not at home only in their private houses, and Churches; but a∣broad also in publike and free schooles. For they well perceiue what ignorance then ensued, and how wide a gate was then set open vnto the Di∣vell to intrappe all men in these groundes of do∣ctrine, when first the custome of the primitiue

church in teaching, & requiring againe the points of Catechisme at the handes of the Catechumeni began to be slacked, and in the end finally de∣caied, and in place therof the vaine and childish spectacle of Popish confirmation succeeded: They well foresee, that as great mischaunces, or greater then these are like to betide vs, vnlesse God in mercy looke on vs, and in time visite vs. Then which danger as nothing can fal out more dread∣full and lamentable to the godly; so the godly and religious can inuent no greater ioy and com∣fort vnto themselues, then to be able assuredly to promise vnto themselues, that their children & childrens children shall long time after their de∣cease enioy that blessed light of the truth which shineth among vs. Wherfore if we be not vtterly bereft of all humane affections, and waxe not cruell against those who loue vs rather then thē∣selues; let vs endeuour by all meanes not to fru∣strate through our retchlesnes this their good hope conceiued,* 1.20 and annihilate their earnest har∣ty desires: but let vs togither with them present our selues thankfull vnto God, who purposing to gather vnto himselfe out of this scōbe of the world an everlasting church, by causing the Sun of this Gospell to retire backe and shine in our hea••tes, hath so chased awaie the cloudes and darkenes of the kingdome of Antichrist, that no man, vnles wilfully shutting his eies and stopping his eares he resist Gods truth disclosed vnto him, cannot but perceiue, and cleerly see the diuell

vnmasked of those visardes of deceipt & errour, wherin he vaūted himselfe, & blinded the world. Which if we shall performe, Christ the sonne of God shal cōtinue vnto vs al his benefits in former times, and heape daily new blessinges on vs ac∣cording to his promise; To him which Hath, that is, to him which hath a desire of proceeding, i•• shall be giuen: But if we doe otherwise, the paines which are threatned in the cōtrary doome shal overtake vs, From him which hath not shalbee taken away even that he hath. The Scriptures themselues and the histories of all times cry and thunder out in our eares Gods iealousie in not being able to endure the contempt of his Gospell revealed, Esay com∣plaineth,* 1.21 They haue cast of the law of the Lord of hosts, and contēned the word of the Holy One of Israel There∣fore is the wrath of the Lord kindled against his people, and he hath stretched out his hand vpon them,* 1.22 and hath smitten them. And Amos threatneth: Beholde the dates come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a fam••••s in the land, not a famine of bread nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the word of the Lord. And they shal wan∣der from sea to sea, and from the North even vnto the East shall they runne to and fro to seeke the worde of the Lord, and shall not finde it. Behold we see the Israe∣litish nation, which God had enriched with so ho∣norable titles and priviledges, and made famous and glorious over all the kingdomes of the earth for the many strange eventes, and wonderful mi∣racles shewed amongst them; behould wee set this 〈◊〉〈◊〉 natiō now grown base & cōtemp∣tible

troden vnder foot of the very out casts of the earth, and in the very mid-day and noone-light of their prophecies so besti••lly and blockis••ly blind that the consideratiō of this their example is able to moue and stir vp evil men, I say not vn∣to laughter or indignation, but rather to st••••ke in∣to their harts a dreadfull horror of the like iudge∣ment. Nowe that the contempt and neglect of sound doctrine touching God and our salvation is the cause of so great mischiefes & miseries wee haue for testimony the voice of the prophets and of Christ himselfe,* 1.23 Ioh. 3. 43. I am come in my Fa∣thers name, and yee receiue me not, if another shall come in his owne name,* 1.24 him will yee receiue. I omit the re∣hearsall of other examples; that one of the late most flowrishing and happy kingdome of Eng∣land I will touch in a word, not only because the example is exceedinge lamentable, but be∣cause also there is none so very a childe in all this Auditory in vvhose time it chaunced not. For of late yeares that kingdome and Coun∣trey of Englande beeing endowed and beauti∣fied with the profession of the Gospel in the hap∣py Reigne of King Edwarde the VI. the Chur∣ches and schooles of learning being nobly ••oun∣ded, honorably enriched, & religiously ordered; the king himselfe, though but 16. yeares of age, yet so farre aboue the hope of his yeares indued with such singular piety, ••dmirable learning, and all Princely vertues that in all that glorious king∣dome nothinge might seeme more glorious then

the king and governour himselfe, that kingdome of late yeares was inferiour in perfect happinesse to no nation of the earth. But ••o on the suddaine through the vntimely decease of that most noble Edward a Prince of so great hope, the Popish ty∣rannicall dominion reentered this kingdome, and tooke ful possession thereof, wasting and spoiling with imprisonments, banishments, fire and sword the most famous churches of that Realme, taking some of the best renowned for learning and inte∣grity of life without all respect either of age, sexe, or dignity▪ and torturing them with fiery flames; and other punishments of like barbarous cruelty: and scattering and dispersing others towardes all partes and corners of the earth: It is now the fifth yeere since this scourge & these calamities haue leine heauy on this land and oppressed the same, I rather acknowledge and bewaile our owne of∣fences, then take on me to censure the defaulte•• of others. Howbeit the report of English exiles is yet 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in mine eares, wherin they much com∣plained of and bewailed the ingratitude, security & loathing of the Gospell, which had overtun their whole countrie. And do we then seeme to regard our good estate we enioy more thē they? I would we did. When Pilate had mingled the bloud of the Galileans which he slewe with the sacrifices,* 1.25 Vnles yee repent, saith Christ, yee shall all perish▪ The tumultes and downe falles of Empires and kingdomes wherwith the church is shaken are open conuersant before our eies, and threatē

and menace vs some bitter scourge. The Tur∣kish cut throtes gape on vs ready to d••v••ur vs striuing by mai••e force to take Christ from amōg vs and by ••n••rusion to seate their profane Maho∣me•••• st••ede of Christ in our churches; of whome reporte goeth that they daily withdrawing Chri∣tian youth vnto their b••asphemou•• filthy, Paga∣nism••, and sheading and su••king the b••oud of our a••••es and kinsfolke, threaten and attempt farther irruptions and inuasions on our bo••ders. That ex∣ecrable sincke the Courte of Rome curseth and banneth vs, crying out Away with vs that wee may be rooted out from of the earth; heresies d••ily bud and blossome both, within and with∣out the Church, and the erroures and corruptions of truth crept into the Church are beyond all number. And verily nowe is that time when vn∣les the Lord reserue a ••eede vnto vs nought re∣maineth but that we should become as Sodom and Gomorrah. O then let vs not be so iron har∣ted, let vs not be so bitter enemies of our owne soules, that we regard not these Gods merciful vi∣sitations, and threatnings of more sharper iudge∣ments to ensue. O let vs seeke the Lord while he may be found: let every one take ca••e of his owne salvation, and beare in minde whatsoeuer thinges concerne the same, so that if the frame of nature should on a suddaine be dissolved we may be rea∣dy cheerefully to meet the Lord in the aire▪ this comming in glory.

These things which I haue hitherto spoken cō∣cerne

all in generall,* 1.26 but more particularly vs that professe the studies of learning. For it is the common consent of all that ever either founded, or governed schooles, or euer were conversant in them, or would that others should frequent them, that they who are here brought vp shoulde be∣come not only more learned but better mānered also then other men. Which trueth being so evi∣dent, they describe a schoole to be A company ap∣pointed by GOD, of such as teach and learne scien∣ces meete & necessarie for mankinde both touching God and other good things, that the knowledge of God amōgst men be not cleane abolished, that the Church be continu∣ed and preserued, that manie may be made heares of life eternal, that discipline be maintained, and that men may enioie other honest commodities issuing out of the artes.

We therefore shoote wide and misse much of the m••••ke we ai••e at, vnlesse we holde it for cer∣taine and true, that our earnest and diligent ende∣vour in these schooles and nu••ce••es of Christ, & Christianity must bee employed not so much for this ende that we may be the more fraught vvith humane and divine learning, but rather that be∣ing beautified and adorned with all laudable be∣haviour towards men and holinesse to the Lord, may be found acceptable in the sight of God and men. And it is a truth apparāt in the Church, that all the exhortations vnto civill vertues without the doctrine of piety is nought else but an estray∣ing and swar••ing from God, true godlinesse, per∣fect iustice, and assured salvation. For the holy

Ghost hath pronounced this sentence; that what∣soever we doe not with intent thereby to glorifie GOD, whatsoever vvee doe not in the name of CHRIST, whatsoever is not of faith, it is all, even altog••ther sinne. VVherefore vvere the doctrine of the Church secluded from our schooles, we should not only not be able to teach or learne any thing that belongeth to true and entire vertue, such as GOD requireth of vs; But that small portion and remainder we haue should make vs of evill men worse and more impious, and that indeed not by the increase thereof so much, as by the decrease and defect of those spirituall and super∣naturall qualities, without which nothing is ho∣ly, nothing wholsome vnto vs. And heere al∣though the consent of men wise and iudicious may satisfie vs, yet let GODS preceptes pre∣vaile more with vs,* 1.27 which commaunde vs re∣search the Scriptures,* 1.28 to giue attendance to reading, to divide the worde aright &c. Nowe whereas no man can without schoole learning and exercise either himselfe perceiue and discerne aright, or expound and impart vnto others in any good or∣der and perspicuity, who is so purblinde that hee seeth not the neere affinity wherwith the study of Religion & piety is linked with schoole▪ learning? Let vs therefore esteeme that to bee the exercise of greatest weight & momēt in scholes, which is a worke of greatest importāce in the world, & with out long & cōtinual schole-exercise cānot be per∣formed by vs, I mean the vnderstāding & expoū∣ding

of the writings of the Prophets & Apostles. And whereas we haue opportunity offered vs of sear∣ching out & sitting the truth of doctrine in grea∣ter measure then other Countries and people; of a truth if wee faile to vse the same wee giue the vvorld occasion to suspect our cold zeale in Reli∣gion, & our punishments for this our negligence and ignorance shall be the greater For God hath giuen vnto scholers especially the charge and care of preserving and advauncing this his trueth not for our owne sakes only, but for the good of others also. For other men with good reason ex∣pect instruction in the Scriptures, and the inter∣pretation of the word at their mouthes, who for their learning are able to vnderstande diverse tongues, and search the course of doctrine.

Whereas then ••eligion and Christianity is to be taught in schooles, that children may wel con∣ceiue▪ it Catechisme is especially necessary. For neither can this age learne any thing except it be taught 〈◊〉〈◊〉 briefe▪ neither cā either the teachers, or the learners handle aright and in good order the parts of any science, whereof both of them haue not digested in minde some rude summe. Both these are the cause why so often in Scriptures we read short briefes of Religion repeated; as Repent, and beleeue the Gospell. He which beleeueth, and is bap∣tised shalbe saued. Fight a good fight, keepe the faith, and a good conscience &c.* 1.29 And wheras it is said Col. 3▪ 16. Let the word of God dwel in you plenteously, & in all wis∣dome, the Apostles meaning is, that wee must vse

explications & interpretations such as are sutable with the sentences and doctrine of the Prophets & Apostles.* 1.30 Neither is Catechisme any other thē a summary declaration of such sentences of Scrip∣ture. Now whereas this litle examen we intende to propose vnto you is such, and the Author thereof hath faithfully and with great dexterity compri∣sed the chiefe grounds of Christianity in proper & plaine tearmes; & it seemeth that it would bee very beneficial that in other churches ther should the like forme of Catechisme be extant, prepare your selues to the speedy learning thereof, & sup∣pose that these our simple writings are the swad∣ling clouts wherein Christ as it were swathed will be found of vs. You see how many vrgent causes they are which they commend vnto you, which they earnestly exhort you to embrace, which I beseech you to carry in minde & memory as they haue bin set downe vnto you: The cōmandement of God, your own salvation, your duty which you owe to po∣sterity, the good example of a reformed church, your ma∣ner of life, your age or years▪ your friends desires, & hopes the imminent dangerous times, the rewardes & punish∣ments we are to looke for at Gods hands. But as our ad∣monitions & exhortations are necessary, so with∣out the secret motiō & working of the holy spirit we know they litle availe. Let vs therefore turne our selues & looke towards God, & giue him har∣ty thanks for this his inestimable benefite, that it was his good pleasure to bring vs into the worlde in this sun-shine of the gospel, & let vs begge and craue to be taught & governed by him.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Mat. 21.
• * 1.2

  The king∣dome of Christ.
• * 1.3

  Catechi∣sing is ne∣cessary.
• * 1.4

  1 For Gods commaun∣dement.
• * 1.5

  True pat∣terne of wholesome wordes.
• * 1.6

  What a ca∣techisme is.
• * 1.7

  2. Our sal∣vation.
• * 1.8

  God con∣verteth & saveth such as are of age & vn∣derstāding by know∣ledge of this doc¦trine as the chiefe in∣strument of his word
• * 1.9

  Of the effi∣cacy and power of the holie spirit by the mini∣stry; a∣gainst the Swencke-feldians.
• * 1.10

  Causes why the mi∣nistry was ordeined.
• * 1.11

  Three tri∣als of a Christian man.
• * 1.12

  The preser∣uation and propagatiō of pure & sincere re∣ligion to prosterity.
• * 1.13

  4 The ca∣pacity of youth, and ••uder sort.
• * 1.14

  Heb. 5. 13. 14.
• * 1.15

  1. Cor. 3. 2. 3.
• * 1.16

  The conti∣nuall cu∣stome of the church.
• * 1.17

  6. The he∣resies and dangers of the last times.
• * 1.18

  Mat. 24. 23.
• * 1.19

  Mat. 24. 4.
• * 1.20

  7 The re∣ward of the embra∣cing of the Gospel, and the punish∣ment of the con∣tempt therof.
• * 1.21

  Es. 5. 24. 26.
• * 1.22

  Amos. 8. 11. 12.
• * 1.23

  Ioh. 5. 43.
• * 1.24

  The perse∣cution in England in Q. Maries daies.
• * 1.25

  Luc. 13. 3.
• * 1.26

  8 Church-doctrine especi••••••y ough••t to be known vn∣to scholers.
• * 1.27

  Ioh. 5. ••••.
• * 1.28

  1. Tim. 4. ••3.
• * 1.29

  Col. 3. 16.
• * 1.30

  Philip Me∣lancthons examen.