§. 10. Of principles concerning Faith.
THe reason why Christians were at first instructed in principles concerning God, was, that they might believe on him. Therefore this principle is thus set down, Faith towards God.
The Greek preposition translated, a 1.1 towards, properly signifieth, TO, and it is oft used in the same sence, that the preposition is which we translate, b 1.2 ON, Ioh. 1. 12. So is the preposition here used in this Text, oft translated by our English, as Act. 9. 42. and 22. 19. Rom. 4. 5. 24.
Thus do most interpreters here translate it, Faith on God. The faith then here meant, is a justifying faith: about which they who are Catechised might be instru∣cted in these, and such like principles.
God is to be believed on.
Faith in God is the meanes to free us out of our naturall, miserable condition.
They might also be further instructed in the nature of Faith, and in the distinct kindes thereof: and how a justifying Faith differeth from other kinds of Faith: and what are the grounds of Faith, and what the fruits thereof: how it is wrought, and how it worketh; what are the signes, and evidences thereof; and concerning the benefits thereof, how thereby we have a right to the things of this world, yea and a right to all that Christ did, and endured, to purchase mans salvation: and thereupon a right to salvation it self.
Of Faith, see more in the whole Armour of God, Treat. 2. Part. 6. on Eph. 6. 16. §. 1. &c.