IV. Causes, why the Lord would haue the external signes added to the word of the gospell, and why they are called vi∣sible words.

We beleeue also and freely confesse, that these visible signes, by Gods institution, were added and ought to bee added to the word, for a more full and firme confirmation of the word, in our mindes: sith it is euen vnto such an ende, that euery where among all nations they vse to put their seales to writings and to testaments. Which is also the cause why Augu∣stine calleth the outward signes & the things obiect to our sences, visible wordes: because in∣deed they were instituted to this ende, and added to the word, that they might doe that which the worde doeth: that is, that the same which the worde signifieth to our eares, the signes may represent to our eyes & other sen∣ces: and so might confirme the word and pro∣mises of God: and as by the word faith is stir∣red vp in our mindes, so also by the outward signes, as it were sealed with seales it might be more throughly confirmed and increased: and lastly, that, as the worde, so also the holie signes be instruments of the holy ghost, by which wee are brought vnto that communion with Christ, and do conioyne therein. And we haue no doubt, but all this was instituted of God for our infirmitie and ignorance, and for the weakenes of our faith: that the same might Page  104be helped not onely by the word, but also by the vi•ible signes; by which faith properly we take hold on Iesus Christ, and grow together in him.