4. In what the Morall Law differeth from the Gospel.

THe declaration of this Question is many waies necessary, as by the difference of the Law and Gospel may appeare. The doubt ariseth especially from the definition of the Law, where it is said, that the Law promiseth rewards to such as performe perfect obedience; and it promiseth them freely, because no obedience can be meritorious in the sight of God. In like maner also the Gospel promiseth ever∣lasting life freely: so that the Law and Gospel seeme not to differ. How beit there is a great diversity in them. The Law differeth from the Gospel: [ 1] *In the manner Page  524of their manifestation. The Law is known by nature: the Gospel was after mans fall manifested from above. [ 2] *In their matter or doctrine. The Law propoundeth Gods meere justice; the Gospel propoundeth it joyntly with mercy. Again, the Law teacheth what we ought to be that we may be saved, and what to performe; the Gospel teacheth how we may be such as the Law requireth, namely, in Christ. [ 3] *In their promises. The Law promiseth eternall life and all good things, with a conditi∣on of our own proper and perfect righteousnesse and obedience, remaining in us; the Gos∣pel promiseth the same with a condition of faith and beliefe in Christ, whereby wee imbrace anothers obedience, performed for us, to wit, the obedience of Christ. Now with this condition of faith, is joyned by an indissoluble knot and bond, the conditi∣on of new obedience. [ 4] *In effects. The Law causeth wrath, and is the ministration of death: The Gospel is the ministration of life, and of the spirit.