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CATECHISM

ON THE

GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

OF

SThe J^rtistgterian (EUurcfi-

" Show them the form of the house, and the fashion thereof and
l-e goings-out thereof, and the comingsin thereof, and all the
Jorms thereof, and all the ordinances thereof, and all the forms
thereof, and all the laws thereof; and write it in their sight, that
they may keep the whole form thereof, and all the ordinances
thereof and do them." — Ezekiel xliii. 11.

"oTFSiSS?

REVISED FOR THE PRESBYTERIAN BOyRm*OF PUBLICATION.

^^ffeicALiSiS

PHILAnELPHIA:
PRESBYTERIAN BOARD OF PUBLICATION.

Entered according to the Act of Congress, in the yeai

1849, by

A. W. MITCHELL, M. D.,

in the Office of the Clerk of the District Court for the
Eastern District of Pennsylvania.

stereotyped by

S. DOUGLAS WYETH,

No. 7 Pear St., Philadelphia.

-t^A—'

PREFACE.

The Compilers of this Catechism do not publish
it in an unkind spirit towards Christians of other
denominations, nor with the view of provoking
controversy, but for the following reasons : —

1. .In these days of conflicting opinions they
deem it a matter of essential importance to the
Presbyterian Church, that her members, and espe-
cially the rising generation, be thoroughly in-
structed in their peculiar and distinguishing prin-
ciples.

2. They regard as unscriptural, and therefore
erroneous^ the opinions which many are disposed
to advocate, — that no particular form of Church
government and discipline is of Divine institution,
and that Churches may adopt whatever form seems
to them most expedient.

3. They believe that the glory of Christ, the

111

IV PREFACE.

extension of his kingdom, and the salvation of
souls, are infinitely connected with the faithful
administration of his ordinances and laws, accord-
ing to the form of government which he has in-
«;tituted in his word.

4. And that^ they are persuaded, is the Presby-
terian form.

A CATECHISM, &a

CHAPTER I.

GOVERNMENT OF THE CHURCH.

Question 1. What is meant by the Church
of Christ ?

Answer. Either the whole body of his re-
deemed people, or the whole body of profess-
ing Christians on earth, and their children.

Christ also loved the Church, and gave himself
for it, that he might present it to himself a glori-
ous Church. Eph. v. 25, 27.

For the promise is unto you, and to your chil-
dren. And the Lord added to the Church daily
such as should be saved. Acts ii. 39, 47.

Q. 2. How is the Chnrch, in this general
sense, usually distinguished ?

A. Into the invisible and the visible Church :
the former, comprising the whole body of
God's saints in heaven and on earth :

The general assembly of the' first-born, whose
names are written in heaven. Heb. xii. 23.

and the latter, the whole body of those who
make an open profession of the truth as it is
in Jesus.

1* 5

6 GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

To the angel of the Church which is in Perga-
mos, write — thou holdest fast my name, and hast
not denied my faith — but thou hast there them that
hold the doctrine of Balaam — which thing I hate.
Rev. ii. 12—15.

Q. 3. Is the Greek word {ecclesia) trans-
lated Church in the Scriptures, confined to
these two meanings ?

A. No. It is used in various senses. It
signifies, —

(1.) Any general assembly, or congrega-
tion of people.

For the assembly {ecclesia) was confused. Acts
xix. 32.

(2.) An assembled council, either of civil
judges,

* It shall be determined in a lawful assembly, (ec-
clesia.) Acts xix. 39.

or of ecclesiastical rulers.

Tell it unto the Church, &c. (ecclesia.) Matt,
xviii. 17.

The Church consists of rulers and ruled,
Heb. xiii. 17. And according to the order
of all well-regulated societies, complaints are
laid before the rulers. It was so in the syna-
gogues of the Jewish Church ; and, therefore,
as spoken by our Lord, and understood by
his disciples, the word Church in this verse
will mean the rulers.

(3.) Any particular congregation of Chris-
tians.

And the Church which is in his house. Col. iv. 15.

OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 7

(4.) Several congregations or churches con-
sidered as one body under the same general
judicature.

Unto the church of God which is at Corinth,
1 Cor. i. 2 ; compared with xiv. 34, Let your wo-
men keep silence in the churches. Also, The
Church which was at Jerusalem, Acts viii. 1, com-
pared with xxi. 20, How many thousands, (or, as
in the original,) myriads. A myriad is ten thou-
sand. Many myriads must have made many con-
gregations in Jerusalem, — all called the Church,
under the jurisdiction of the apostles and elders,
Acts XV. 6, and xvi. 4.

Q. 4. Is it a matter of indifference to what
Church we belong ?

A. No. It is our duty to join and adhere
to that Church which is most agreeable to the
Holy Scriptures in its doctrines, constitutions,
forms, and discipline.

Try the spirits whether they are of God. I
John iv. 1.

Prove all things ; hold fast that which is good.
1 Thess. V. 21.

Q. 5. Has the Christian Church, as a visi-
ble society, a form of government peculiar
to itself?

A. Yes. It is a kingdom having laws en-
joined by Christ, and its members consist of
the rulers and the ruled.

My kingdom is not of this world, &c. John
xviii. 36.

Obey them that have the rule over you, and
submit yourselves, for they watch for your souls.
Heb. xiii. 17.

O GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

Q. 6. Where do we find the ordinances
and laws by which it is governed ?
A. In the word of God alone.

To the law and to the testimony ; if they speak
not according to this word, it is because there is no
light in them. Isa. viii. 20.

If any man shall add to these things, God shall
add unto him the plagues that are written in this
book. Rev. xxii. 18.

Q. 7. What is the form of Church govern-
ment which is founded on and most agreea-
ble to the word of God ?

A. That which is called the Presbyterian
form. It is so called from the word Pres-
byter, signifying Elder, which is the usual
scriptural name for the rulers of the Church.

Q. 8. What are the general and leading
principles of this form of Church govern-
ment ?

A. The supreme Headship of the Lord
Jesus Christ ; the official equality of its Min-
isters ; the distinct office of Ruling Elder ;
with the ministerial authority, and judicial
subordination of Church courts.
> Q. 9. What is meant by the supreme Head-
ship of Christ ?

A. That He, and He alone, is the King
and Head of the Church, and that no other
person or persons have any authority to de-
cree rites and ceremonies, or institute offices
in the Church.

Yet have I set my King upon my holy hill of
Zion. Psa. ii. 6.

OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 9

Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but
being ensamples to the flock. 1 Pet. v. 3.

Even as Christ is the head of the Church.
Eph. V. 23.

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever
I have commanded you. Matt, xxviii. 20.

Q. 10. How many kinds of office-bearers
did Christ appoint in his Church ?

A. Two kinds — extraordinary and ordi-
nary officers.

And he gave some apostles, and some prophets,
and some evangelists, and some pastors and teach-
ers. Eph. iv. 11.

Q. 11. What were the extraordinary ?

A. Persons endowed with supernatural
gifts, and extraordinary authority ; as apos-
tles, evangelists, prophets.

Q. 12. For what purpose were they ap-
pointed ?

A. To make known the will of Christ, set-
tle the constitution of the Church agreeably
thereto, and commit the administration of it
to ordinary and permanent officers.

For this cause I left thee in Crete, that thou
shouldest set in order the thin2;s that are wantincr.
Tit. i. 5.

And the things that thou hast heard of me among
many witnesses, the same commit thou to faith-
ful men, who shall be able to teach others also. 2
Tim. ii. 2.

Q. 13. Had they any successors as extra-
ordinary officers ?

A. No. We do not read of any having

10 GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

been appointed or ordained to succeed them
in their higher office as apostles, evangehsts,
or prophets.

And when ihey had ordained them elckrs in
every church. Acts xiv. 23.

Q. 14. What are the ordinary Church-offi-
cers appointed by Christ ?

A. Presbyters or elders, (called also bishops
or overseers,) and deacons.

And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called
the elders of the Church. Acts xx. 17.

To all the saints in Christ Jesus at Philippi, with
the bishops and deacons. Philip, i. 1.

Q. 15. What is meant by the pastors of the
Church ?

A. The presbyters or elders, who teach as
well as rule.

Q. 16. Are any of these possessed of supe-
rior rank and authority in the Church above
the others ?

A. No. They are all of the same order
and of equal authority.

Q. 17. Are not bishops an order of minis-
ters distinct from and superior to presbyters
or elders ?

A. They are not. Bishop is only another
name for the presbyter or elder.

Q. IS. How does this appear ?

A. (1.) Bishops are not called in any part
of the New Testament by any peculiar title
to distinguish them from presbyters — none
are constituted prelates, or lords over God's
heritage ; but on the contrary, bishop or

OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 11

Overseer, and presbyter or elder, are applied
to the same persons. Thus in Acts xx. 17,
those are called " elders," who are afterwards
in the 28th verse 'called " overseers," that is
bishops ; as the Greek word episcojjoi de-
notes.

(2.) No where in Scripture are there im-
posed on bishops duties or powers distinct
from those of presbyters ; no where are their
qualifications stated to be different. Thus
the apostle reminds Titus,

For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou
shouldest ordain elders in every city. Tit. i. 5.

In the next verse he specifies their qualifi-
cations as elders ; and in the 7th verse, in
enumerating these qualifications, he says, a
bishop must be bla7neless, &c.

(3.) While the two titles are thus applied
to the very same persons — presbyter referring
to the rank, bishop to the duties of both —
these persons are equal in all respects ; the
only material difference that is discoverable
being, that a higher degree of honour is to
be conceded to those among them, who teach
as well as rule.

Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy
of double honour, especially they who labour in
the word and doctrine. 1 Tim. v. 17. See also
1 Cor. xii. 28. -

(4.) All pastors derive their office and au-
thority from Christ, by the same commission,
and in the same words.

And he said unto them, go ye into all the world,

12 GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

and preach the gospel to every creature. Mark
xvi. 15.

(5.) Since, then, all those who are called
presbyters, are also called bishops; and those
who are addressed as bishops, are also ad-
dressed as presbyters ; since the same rank,
powers, qualifications, and duties, are con-
nected with both of these designations, it is
manifest that they are not separate classes or
orders, but one and the same. Therefore the
presbyter is the only scriptural bishop.

Q. 1 9. What sort of officers were Timothy
and Titus ?

A. They were extraordinary and itinerant
officers.

Do the work of an evangelist. Titus (is de-
parted) unto Dalmatia. 2 Tim. iv. 5, 10.

Titus, he is my partner and fellow-helper con-
cerning you. 2 Cor. viii. 23.

I desired Titus, and with him I sent a brother.
2 Cor. xii. 18.

Q. 20. Does the word angel, as used in
reference to the seven churches of Asia, in
Revelations, designate an officer superior to
the presbyter ?

A. The word signifies merely a messenger,
and may be applied to the teaching elder, or
it may be taken to designate the moderator
of the presbytery as the organ of communi-
cation ; or it may signify the pastors of the
churches in a collective capacity.

Some of YOU, that ye, &c. ; among you. Rev.
ii. 8, 10, 13,

OP THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 13

Q. 21. What is required in a man, to war-
rant iiis being ordained to the ministry ?

A. He should be renewed by the Holy
Ghost ; persuaded in his own mind that he
is called to the work of the ministry ; resolved
to endure hardship as a soldier of Christ ;
sound in the faith ; blameless and holy in the
habits of his life ; possess such measure of
knowledge, human and divine, as may quahfy
him to answer the gainsayer; and such gifts
of utterance as may enable him to edify the
church.

Hold fast the form of sound words which thou
hast heard of me in faith and love. 2 Tim. ii. 13.

And the things that thou hast heard of me, the
same commit Ihou to faithful men, who shall be
able to teach others also. 2 Tim. ii. 2.

For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward
of God, sober, just, holy. Tit. i. 7.

Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto
the kingdom of heaven, is like unto a man that is
an householder, which bringeth out of his treasure
things new and old. Matt. xiii. 52.

Q. 22. Who has authority to ordain to
offices in the Church ?

A. A presbytery or plurality of elders.

With the laying on of the hands of the presby-
tery. 1 Tim. iv. 14.

Whom they set before the apostles, and when
they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.
Acts vi. 6.

Q. 23. Is there any other permanent office
in the Church but that of teaching ?

2

14 GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

A. There is also the office of ruling.

Salute all them that have the rule over you.
Heb. xiii. 24.

Q. 24. To whom does it belong to exercise
this office ?

A. To the presbyters or elders.

And the apostles and elders came together for to
consider the matter. Acts xv. 6.

They deUvered them the decrees for to keep
which were ordained of the apostles and elders.
\cts xvi. 4.

The elders that rule well. 1 Tim. v. 17.

Q. 25. How many classes of Elders are
there ?

A. Two — the Teaching Elder, and the
Ruling Elder.

Let the Elders that rule well be counted worthy
of double honour, especially they who labour in
the word and doctrine. 1 Tim. v. 17.

Teachers, helps, governments. 1 Cor. xii. 28.

Q. 26. Are these to be regarded as distinct
orders of office-bearers, possessing different
degrees of authority ?

A. No. They are to be regarded as occu-
pying different departments of the same gene-
ral office, and of equal authority, as rulers^
of the Church.

Q. 27. Why are they thus distinguished ?

A. Because the one class is ordained not
only to rule, but also to teach, and the other
to rule, as their distinctive duty.

Q. 28. What is the general duty of the
Ruling Elders ?

OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 15

A. To act along with the Pastor, as ^ helps
and governments/ in overseeing the Church,
in exercising discipline and rule, and visiting
the families and sick members for exhortation
and prayer.

The Elders which are among you I exhort, who
am also an Elder — Feed the flock of God which
is among you, taking the oversight thereof. 1 Pet.
V. 1,2. ,

Is any sick among you ? Let him call for the
Elders of the Church, and let them pray over him.
James v. 14.

Q. 29. Is it a part of the Deacon's office to
teach or rule in the Church ?

A. No. Deacons are not spoken of any
where in Scripture, in connexion with these
duties.

Q. 30. For what duty were they appointed ?

A. To manage the temporal affairs of the
Church, and especially to attend to the wants
of the poor, in order that the apostles or
teachers might give themselves continually to
the ministry of the word, Acts vi. 1 — 4.

Q. 31. Did not Phihp, who was a Deacon,
teach and baptize ?

A. Philip became an Evangelist, and as
such, had authority to teach and baptize.

And we entered into the house of Philip the
Evangelist. Acts xxi. 8.

Q. 32. Have the members of Churches the
^ht of choosir
office-bearers ?

right of choosing their own Pastors and other

16 GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

A. Yes. Churches have this privilege in
common with all other free Societies.

And the saying pleased the whole multitude, and
they chose Stephen. Acts vi. 6.

Who was also chosen of the Churches to travel
with us with this grace, &c. 2 Cor. viii. 19.

Q. 33. How should Christians discharge
this duty ?

A. In a spirit of meekness, humility, peace,
and prayer, with a supreme regard to the
glory of Christ, and the spiritual interests of
the Church, without partiality, or respect of
persons.

Let nothing be done through strife or vain-
glory ; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem
other better than themselves. Phil. ii. 3.

Whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God,
1 Cor. X. 31.

CHAPTER n.

THE SUCCESSION OP MINISTERS, AND THE
NOTION OF APOSTOLICAL SUCCESS:^ON.

Question 1. Had the apostles of our Lord
Jesus Christ any successors in their office ?

Answer. They had : not however as apos-
tles, for none could be an apostle except such
as had seen the Lord, — but as ministers, in
preaching the word and administering the

OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 17

Sacraments, and taking the oversight. 2 Tim.
iii. 2. Acts xiv. 23.

Q. 2. As distinct from Deacons, what are
these spiritual office-bearers called ?

A. They are sometimes called Bishops,
that is, overseers of the flock — sometimes
Presbyters, which means elders. They are
elders by station, and overseers by its duties,
but they are of one order — not two. Acts
XX. 17—28. Tit. i. 5—7.

Q. 3. How were they ordained or set apart
to their office ?

A. By the laying on of the hands of the
Presbytery. 1 Tim. iv. 14. Acts xiii. 1.

Q. 4. What is the practice of those
Churches which unscripturally assert that
bishops and presbyters are two separate
orders ?

A. Their practice is to set apart one class
of men by what they call consecration, and
another by simple ordination.

Q. 5. Is there any rule or example in the
New Testament for these two separate modes
of setting apart ministers to their office ?

A. There is none.

Q. 6. Is it not of importance that there
should be a regular succession of scripturally
appointed ministers ?

A. Yes ; as a matter of order, it is seemly
in the Church of Christ, but not essential to
the salvation of souls.

Q. 7. Why is it not essential ?

A. Because a broken succession can never
frustrate the efficacy of the word of God, and

2*

18 GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

an unbroken succession can never sanctify
" the doctrines of devils."

Q. 8. Who are they that rest all efficacy
and salvation on what they call Apostolical
Succession — that is, a derivation of their min-
isterial office through prelate-bishops from
the hands of the apostles ?

A. The Popish Church, and a large party
in the prelatic Churches of England, of Ire-
land, and in Scotland and America.

Q. 9. Seeing these impute so much to it,
can they prove from history that such a
thing as unbroken succession exists among
them?

A. Their assumption requires this at their
hand ; but though they affect to do this, yet
they cannot. Their pretended catalogues
are spurious or defective : for, 1st, There is
no good evidence that the apostle Peter, from
whom they pretend to derive their succes-
sion, was bishop of Rome, or that he ever
visited that city ; 2d, There is no good evi-
dence as to who v/ere the chief pastors of the
church there for the first two or three gene-
rations; and, 3d, There is the clearest evi-
dence which history can afford, that, in sub-
sequent times, the succession was broken
in numerous instances, and in innumerable
ways. That it is " unbroken " is a popish
fable.

Q. 10. Is not such a claim still farther in-
vahdated on protcstant grounds ?

A. Most certainly it is; for if, as Protest-
ants maintain, the Popish Church has become

OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 19

an apostate church, its office-bearers have
plainly lost their Master's commission, and
they cannot impart it to others : or if they
can impart it, we must also admit that they
can recall it. Now, all Protestant bishops
have been repeatedly excommunicated and
deposed by the Romish Church ; how then
can they claim succession from it ? There-
fore, if Protestant clergy teach their people
that all legitimate authority, necessarily and
exclusively accompanies such "succession,"
the people are, on this principle, clearly bound
to leave them, and return to the authority of
Rome, which these clergy, on the one hand,
foolishly acknowledge, and, on the other
hand, inconsistently disobey.

Q. 11. Is this notion of unbroken succes-
sion objected to by us, because we are unable
to advance any similar claim ?

A. No : but because we regard it as idle and
unscriptural. The apostle, when ground-
less pretensions were to be met, could say,
^'Whereinsoever any is hold {I speak fool-
ishly) I am hold also. Are they Hebrews ?
So am I. Are they Israelites ? So am I.
Are they the seed of Abraham ? So am /.
After the same manner, we are allowed to
say, if any protestant communions may
claim such a succession, the Presbyterian
Church may.

Q. 12. How so?

A. Seeing that at the Reformation, her
ministers were ordained by Popish Bishops,
and seeing that all her ministers are them-

20 GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

selves his/iopSy as before shewn ; the likeli-
liood that their succession would be after-
wards broken, is less than it is in a church
where only one minister, say in Jive hundred,
is acknowledged to be a bishop, with power
o( transmitting it. In times of confusion it
might be lost among Prelate-Bishops, and
yet preserved among Presbyter or Parochial
Bishops.

Q. 13. But are we to rest or to glory in
this?

A. No, certainly : we are to look for proofs
that our ministers are sent of God, in other
things than in this, which is at best unprofit-
able and vain.

Q. 14. What evils arise from the assertion,
by Protestant clergy, that " unbroken succes-
sion'' is necessary to salvation, and from their
assumption of the claim?

A. Great evils are apt to arise. It goes to
unchurch themselves; because when what
they assume and pronounce to be necessary
to constitute a church, is historically dis-
proved, they by consequence pronounce them-
selves excluded from the ministry, and their
people from salvation. It tends to exalt the
authority of man above that of God j tradi-
tion above scripture ; points that are inditler-
ent above truths that are essential. It fosters
pride among the clergy, and exasperates dif-
ferences among Protestants. It strengthens
Popery, because it concedes one of its most
arrogant demands; and it strengthens infi-
delity, because, when ministers of the gospel

OF THE PRESBYTERIAy CHURCH. 21

maintain dogmas, which, on being slightly
sifted, are fourjd to ha so foolish and fictitious
as this, they impair their own credit in pro-
claiming to men facts and doctrines which
are founded in truth and necessary to sal-
vation.

CHAPTER III.

THE CONSTITUTION AND JURISDICTION OF
CHURCH COURTS.

Question 1. What is the nature and ex-
tent of that authority which Christ has given
to the rulers of the Church?

Answer. It is merely ministerial and sub-
ordinate.

Not for that we have dominion over your faith,
but are helpers of your joy. 2 Cor. i. 24.

Q. 2. What is meant by ministerial au-
' thority ?

A. It is authority, as ministers or servants
of Christ, to proclaim, apply, and execute his
laws for promoting the order and spiritual
edification of the Church.

Q. 3. What is meant by subordinate au-
thority ?

A. It is the subjection of the inferior to the
superior Courts of the Lord's house — as of

22 GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

Session to I^l'esbytery, and of Presbytery to
Synod, and of all to Christ.

Q, 4. How is this rule or authority exer-
cised ?

A. By the Presbyters or Elders assembled
in Session, Presbytery, Synod, or General
Assembly.

And the Apostles and Elders came together for
to consider of this matter. Acts xv. 6.

Q. 5. What is a Church Session ?

A. It is the minister (who teaches and
rules) along with the Ruling Elders of any
particular congregation met together as a
Church Court. The Minister acts as Mode-
rator or President ; and the Court thus formed
may be called a Congregational Presbytery.
This court, with the superior judicatures, is
founded on the model of the more ancient
synagogue courts, for purposes of govern-
ment and discipline.

Thou shall provide out of all the people able
men, and place such over them to be rulers. Exo-
dus xviii. 21.

If thy brother trespass against thee, and if he
neglect to hear thee, tell it to the church. Matt,
xviii. 15 — 17. See also 1 Cor. v. 4, 13.

Q. 6. Who are subject to the authority of
Session ?

A. All the members of the church of which
it has the oversight.

Q. 7. What is the duty of each church or
congregation towards the Session .'*

A. To respect and uphold that authority

OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 23

which is given it by Christ ; to render a cheer-
ful obedience to its decisions in the Lord ;
and cordially co-operate in the plans of use-
fulness which it recommends.

And we beseech you, brethren, to know them
which labour among you, and are over you in the
Lord, and admonish you. And esteem them very
highly in love, for their work's sake. And be at
peace among yourselves. 1 Thess. v. 12, 13,

Q. 8. Of what does a Presbytery consist ?

A. Of the Ministers of a convenient dis-
trict, with a Ruling Elder from each congre-
gation.

Q. 9. What is the extent of its jurisdic-
tion ?

A. It extends to its own members, and to
the several sessions and congregations be-
longing to it. It is a Court of Appeal from
Sessions, and has the general oversight of the
congregations under its care. An appeal lies
from its decision to the Synod.

Q. 10. Of what does a Synod consist?

A. It consists of the Ministers of three or
more Presbyteries with a Ruling Elder to re-
present each Session. In some branches of
the Presbyterian church the Synod is the su-
preme court of jurisdiction ; but in other,
more numerous and extended churches, such
as those of Scotland, of Ireland, and of the
United States, there is also a General Assem-
bly, composed of a specific number of Minis-
ters and Ruling Elders, appointed by the
Presbyteries.

Q. 11. Does the New Testament furnish

24 GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

any model of Presbyterian government by
such Church Courts ?

A. It does, in the xv. chapter of Acts.

Q. 12. How does the xv. chapter of Acts
establish that form of church government ?

A. The facts therein recorded for our ex-
ample, furnish its outhne or general principles.
In the church at Antioch, a question was dis-
puted, affecting the faith and practice of all
the churches of Christ. Ver. 1, 2 : It was
referred for settlement, to an assembly to be
convened at Jerusalem. Ver. 2 : The as-
sembly consisted of the rulers of the church,
but was open to the people. Ver. 6, 12 : It
acted in a deliberative capacity. Ver. 7, 12,
13: It decided, not by direct inspiration, but
by discussion and consideration, under the
ordinary guidance of the Holy Ghost. Ver.
7, 22, 28 : One member of the assembly pro-
posed a resolution, which was unanimously
adopted as its decision on the question. Ver.
19, 22 : The decree thus enacted, was autho-
ritative, and extended to all the churches.
Ver. 28 ; and xvi. 4 : These principles are
applied in government, with all the necessary
and expedient details, to particular congrega-
tions, by the Session ; to the churches of a
convenient district, by the Presbytery; and
10 the whole Church, by Synod, or General
Assembly.

Let all things be done decently, and in order.
1 Cor. xiv. 40.

OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 25

CHAPTER IV.

DISCIPLINE OF THE CHURCH.

Question 1. What is the Scriptural cha-
racter of a Christian church ?

Answer. It is a society of persons sepa-
rated from the rest of mankind to the ser-
vice of God.

They are not of the world. John xvii. 16.

Q. 2. By what means is this character to
be preserved ?

A. By the faithful exercise of a Scriptural
discipline.

Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may
be a new lump. 1 Cor. v. 7. (See context.)

Q. 3. What should be the conduct of a
Church Court in exercising discipline ?
A. It should be, 1st, Orderly.

Let all things be done decently, and in order.
1 Cor. xiv. 40.

2d. Meek.

Restore such an one m the spirit of meekness.
Gal. vi. 1.

3d. Solemn,

If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles
of God. 1 Pet. iv. 11.

4th. Impartial.

26 GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

Doing nothing by partiality. 1 Tim. v. 21.

Q. 4. When is a person to be regarded as
making a credible profession of faith in
Christ, and to be admitted to the Commu-
nion ?

A. Tiiat man is to be viewed as making a
credible profession of religion, who manifests
an acquaintance with the leading doctrines
of the gospel, who declares himself a believer
in these doctrines, who professes that, so far as
he can judge, his heart has been renewed by
the Spirit of God, and who maintains a con-
duct and conversation becoming the Gospel.

With the heart man believeth unto righteous-
ness ; and with the mouth confession is made unto
salvation. Rom. x. 10.

And he took them the same hour of the night,
and washed their stripes ; and was baptized. Acts
xvi. 33.

Bring forth, therefore, fruits worthy of repent-
ance. Luke iii. 8.

Q. 5. But did not the apostles receive per-
sons into the Church by baptism, without
waiting for any evidence of the credibility
of their profession ?

A. All who then joined the Church, did so
at the risk of liberty, property, and life ; and
this of itself was a most satisfactory evidence
of their sincerity in malting such profession.

Q. 6. Do the members of the Church, after
their admission, continue subject to the au-
thority of the Rulers ?

A. Yes. Such authority on the one part,

OP THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 27

and obedience on the other, are most plainly
sanctioned by the law of Christ.

Do not ye judge them that are within 1 But
them that are without, God judgeth. 1 Cor. v.
12, 13.

Obey them that have the rule over you. Heb.
xiii. 17.

Q. 7. For what offences are members liable
to trial, and Church censure ?

A. It would be wrong to subject a member
to Church censure, or even trial, for every
misdemeanour ; but they are to be subjected,
for, —

(1.) Errors in doctrine.

A man that is an heretic, after the first and
second admonition, reject. Tit. iii. 10.

(2.) Immorality in practice.

Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of
darkness, but rather reprove them. Eph. v. 11.
See also, Rev. ii. 20.

(3.) Despising the authority, or or-
der, OR ordinances of the church.

Now we command you, brethren, in the name
[of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw your-
selves from every brother that walketh disorderly,
and not after the tradition which he received of us.
2 Thess. iii. 6.

(4.) Neglecting the public, domestic,

OR SECRET duties OF RELIGION.

Not forsakinij the assembling of ourselves to-
gether, as the manner of some is. Heb. x. 25.
Pour out thy fury upon the heathen that know

28 GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

thee not, and upon the families that call

NOT ON THY NAME. Jer. X. 25.

(5.) Slothful idleness.

If any provide not for his own, and especially
for those of his own house, he hath denied the
faith, and is worse than an infidel. 1 Tim. v. 8.

(Finally.) The violation of any clear
Scripture precept or ecclesiastical or-
dinance.

The law is not made for a righteous man, but
for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly
and for sinners, for unholy and profane, &c., &c.
1 Tim. i. 9.

Q. 8. Does not Scripture attach a solemn
importance to the censures of the Church ?

A. Yes. For the sentence, when pro-
nounced according to Christ's law, is ratified
in heaven ; and if the individual be wholly
"cut off" from the Church, he is dehvered
up to Satan, the god of this world, as a sub-
ject of his visible kingdom.

Verily, I say unto you, whatsoever ye shall
bind on earth, shall be bound in heaven ; and
whatsoever ye shall loose on earth, shall be loosed
in heaven. Matt, xviii. 18.

To deliver such an one unto Satan. 1 Cor. v. 5.

Of whom is Hymeneus and Alexander, whom
I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn
not to blaspheme. 1 Tim. i. 20.

Q. 9. What is the duty of those who have
been judged worthy of censure ?

A. To humble themselves under it, — to

OP THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 29

submit to it, to repent and do their first
works.

Behold this self same thing, that ye sorrowed
after a godly sort, what careftilness it wrought in
you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what
indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement
desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge. 2 Cor.
vii. 11.

Submit yourselves. Heb. xiii. 17.

Remember, therefore, from whence thou art
fallen, and repent, and do the first works. Rev.
ii. 5.

Q. 10. Is it lawful ever to restoVe to the
communion of the Church one who has been
suspended, or cut off?

A. Yes, it is. Whenever sufficient evi-
dence has been afforded of repentance and
reformation, he may be restored.

Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye
which are spiritual restore such an one, in the
spirit of meekness. Gal. vi. 1. ,

Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted
unto them. John xx. 23.

Q. 11. Are any censures to be made
public ?

A. Yes, such as are occasioned by offences
which from their magnitude and publicity,
are calculated to bring scandal on the Church.

Sufficient to such a man is this punishment,
which was inflicted of many. 2 Cor. ii. 6.

Them that sin rebuke before all, that others
also may fear. 1 Tim. v. 20,

Q. 12. Does any sentence of the Church

3*

30 GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

exclude an individual from hearing the gospel
preached ?

A. No. It is to be preached to the most
guilty, (See 1 Cor. xiv. 25 ;) and it is espe-
cially the duty of such to attend on the min-
istration of the Word.

Q. 13. Is injury done to the people of God,
by the neglect of discipline in the Church ?

A. Yes. When the Church is not kept pure,
godly persons will be deterred from joining it.

But now I have written unto you, not to keep
company, if any man that is called a brother be
a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolator, or a
railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner, with such
an one, no, not to eat. 1 Cor. v. 11.

I would not that ye should have fellowship with
devils. 1 Cor. x. 20.

And those in the Church who are, or may
become, pious, will be obliged to separate
from it.

Comfe out of her, my people, that ye be not par-
takers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her
plagues. Rev. xviii. 4.

Q. 14. Is injury done to the sinner by such

neglect ?

A. Yes. By it he will be confirmed in his
carelessness, self-deception, and sin.

They have seduced my people, saying. Peace;
and there was no peace. With lies ye have made
the heart of the righteous sad, whom I have not
made sad ; and strengthen the hands of the
wicked, that he should not return from his wicked
way, by promising him life. Ezek, xiii. 10, 22.

OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 31

Q. 15. May not a church so far apostatize
by the neglect of discipHne, as to cease to be
a church of Christ, and become a synagogue
of Satan ?

A. Yes. This has sometimes happened.

I know the blasphemy of them which say they
are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of
Satan. Rev. ii. 9.

Them of the synagogue of Satan, which say
they are Jews. Rev. iii. 9.

Because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold
nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Rev.
iii. 16.

Q. 16. What benefits may arise to the
offender from the exercise of discipline }

A. By this he sees sin to be evil and
shameful.

If any man obey not our word by this epistle,
note that man, and have no company with him,
that he may be ashamed. 2 Thess. iii. 14.

And if he receive the censure in a proper
spirit, it has a powerful tendency to humble,
reclaim, and edify him.

Now I rejoice not that ye were made sorry, but
that ye sorrowed to repentance, for godly sorrow
worketh repentance to salvation, not to be re-
pented of. 2 Cor. vii. 9, 10.

Q. 17. What benefits arise to the Church
from the faithful exercise of discipline ?

A. (1.) Hereby sinners are discouraged
from hypocritically joining the Church, and
the leaven which might infect the whole
lump is purged out.

32 GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

Purge out, therefore, the old leaven, that ye
may be a new lump. 1 Cor. v. 7.

(2.) The number of her true converts is
increased.

As they went through the cities, they delivered
them the decrees for to keep, that were ordained
of the Apostles and Elders, which were at Jeru-
salem ; and so were the Churches established in
the faith, and increased in number daily. Acts
xvi. 4, 5.

And great fear came upon all the Church, and
upon as many as heard these things. And of the
rest, durst no man join himself to them ; but the
people magnified them. And believers were the
MORE ADDED to the Lord, multitudes both of
men and women. Acts y. 11, 13, 14.

(3.) Her holiness is manifested.

Take these things hence; make not my Father's
house a house of merchandise. John ii. 16.

(4.) The honour of her Head is vindicated.

The heathen shall know that I am the Lord,
saith the Lord God, when I shall be sanctified in
you before their eyes. Ezek. xxxvi. 23.

(5.) And God's gracious presence and bles-
sing secured.

Come out from among them, and be ye separate,
saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing ;
and I will receive you, and be a Father unto you,
and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the
Lord Almighty. 2 Cor. vi. 17, 18.

Q. 18. But may not the offender, by the
exercise of discipline, be led to forsake the

OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 33

a

preaching of the Gospel, and thus become
more hardened ?

A. As discipline is an ordinance of God,
we must expect the neglect rather than the
exercise^ of it to harden the sinner ; but if, in
his pride and obstinacy, he disregard the ad-
vantages which flow from it, when received
in a right spirit, the rulers of the Church are
not to be deterred from their duty, any more
than the minister of the Gospel from preach-
ing, because many are hardened by it, and
have their guilt and danger increased.

To the one we are the savour of death unto
death ; and to the other the savour of life unto life.
2 Cor. ii. 15.

These be they who separate themselves, sensual,
having not the Spirit. Jude 19.

Q. 19. Are the rulers of the Church deeply
responsible for the right exercise of disci-
pline ?

A. They who hold office by appointment
from Christ, whose faithfulness will be folio w-
edlDy so many and great blessings, whose neg-
ligence must be the source of such deep and
lasting injuries to the Church, dishonour to
Christ, and evil to sinners — should feel them-
selves under a most solemn responsibility, in
this matter, and must expect to be called to
a most strict account, at the day of judgment,
for the part which they act, in relation to it.

And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye
shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not
away. 1 Pet. v. 4.

Obey them that have the rule over you, and sub-

34 GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

mit yourselves ; for they watch for your souls, as
they tliot must give account; that they may do it
with joy and not with grief. Heb. xiii. 17.

CHAPTER V.

THE VOLUNTARY AND LEGAL MAINTENANCE
OF PUBLIC ORDINANCES.

Question 1. Is it the duty of Christians to
contribute of their substance to the mainten-
ance of rehgious ordinances ?

Answer. It is both their duty and their
privilege.

Take ye from among you an offering unto the
Lord ; whosoever is of a willing heart, let him
bring it, an offering of the Lord ; gold, and silver,
and brass. Exod. xxxv. 5.

Let him that is taught in the word communicate
unto him that teacheth in all good things. Gal.
vi. 6. See also 1 Cor. ix. 3 — 15.

Q. 2. In what spirit is such contribution to
be made ?

A. It is to be made freely, bountifully,
thankfully, and devoutly.

He shall offer of his own voluntary will. Lev.
i. 3.

He which soweth sparingly shall reap also spar-
ingly ; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap
also bountifully. 2 Cor. ix. 6, 7.

I will offer to thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving.

OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 35

and will call upon the name of the Lord. Psa.
cxvi. 17.

Q. 3. In circumstances and places where
the ordinances and ministry of the pure gos-
pel are already sufficiently provided for, are
Christians, for this reason, to withhold their
contributions ?

A. No : they ought, in such case, to mul-
tiply them in behalf of the heathen and others
who have not obtained the same advantage :
and thus the gospel of Jesus Christ will be
extended, till all nations shall serve him.

Q. 4. Ought rulers and nations, as such, to
protect the people in the free and full exer-
cise of their religious privileges ?

A. Yes: because rulers derive their au-
thority from God, and therefore they are
bound to use it for his glory : Prov. viii. 15.
Nations, also, receive from him national bles-
sings, and therefore they are bound to render
imto him national service : Jer. xviii. 7, 10.

Q. 5. Have you any other reasons to ad-
duce ?

A. Yes. Because the Lord Jesus Christ
is, as Mediator, King of kings, and therefore
these, officially as well as personally, are re-
quired to bow to his sceptre, and to maintain
his cause. Rev. xix. 16. Psa. ii.

2. Because the end of civil government is,
not only to repress what is evil, but to cherish
what is good : Rom. xiii. 4.

3d. Because wherever the religion of Christ,
especially in its pure Presbyterian form, has

36 GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

been so maintained, there society has been
more orderly, virtuous, and enlightened, than
otherwise.

Q. 6. Is it proper or expedient for a gov-
ernment to endow and support any particu-
lar form of religion ?

A. No. Experience has demonstrated that
such establishments are oppressive to con-
science, partial, liable to great abuse, injuri-
ous to the spirituality of the Church, by
making it a mere appendage to the state.

CHAPTER VI.

OBJECTION TO OTHER CHURCHES.

Question 1. Is not the Presbyterian Church
properly denominated Protestant ?

Answer. It is. Because, in common with
other Reformed Churches, it professes to ad-
here to the solemn protest which was taken
by the Reformers of the sixteenth century,
against the errors and corruptions of the
Church of Rome.

Q. 2. What are some of those errors in
that Church, against which the Reformed
Churches protest ?

A. They protest, among many other things,
against the doctrine of the Pope's supremacy.
Matt, xxiii. 8, 11. Eph. ii. 19, 20. They

OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CKURCII. 37

protest against the doctrine of the infaUibilify
of the Church. Acts xvii. 11. 2 Cor. i. 24.
Against the doctrine of transubstantiation,
and the sacrifice of the mass. Acts iii. 20,

21. Heb. ix. 24 — 28. x. 12—14. Against
the doctrine that the good worlds of the saints
are meritorious in the sight of God. Isa.
Ixiv. 6. Eph. ii. 8, 9. Rom. xi. 6. Against
the doctrine of purgatory, and that prayers
ought to be offered for the dead. Luke xvi.

22, 23. xxiii. 43. 2 Cor. v. 8. 1 John i. 7.
Rev. xiv. 13. Against the doctrine that
saints, images, and reUcs, ought to be wor-
shipped. Exod. XX. 4, 5. Rev. xix. 10. xxii.
S, 9. Against the doctrine, that the Scrip-
tures ought not to be read by the laity.
Deut. vi. 6, 7. Matt. xxii. 29. John v. 39.
Against the doctrine, that cehbacy, and absti-
nence from certain kinds of meat, are con-
nected with exalted piety, and superior sanc-
tity of character. Lev. xxi. 10, 13. 1 Cor.
vh. 2. 1 Tim. iv. 3. iii. 2. 1 Cor. viii. 8.
The Presbyterian Reformed Churches bear
their testimony against these and many other
errors of the Church of Rome, as being anti-
Christian, and destructive to the souls of men.

Q. 3. In what hght do Presbyterians view
Protestant Established Churches, such as
those of England and Ireland?

A. They regard them as Churches of
Christ ; but, at the same time, so unscriptural
in their constitution and administration, as to
oblige them to maintain a separate com-
munion.

3S GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

Q. 4. What is there in the constitution and
administration of these Churches, to which
Presbyterians object ?

A. 1. They object to the power and au-
thority, in spiritual matters, which these
churches declare to be vested in the supreme
magistrate, whether male or female : " That
the king hath full power and authority to
hear and determine all manner of causes
ecclesiastical, and reform and correct all vice,
sins, errors, heresies, whatsoever."

2. They object to these Churches, that, ac-
cording to their constitution, the Parliament
of the nation, consisting of Episcopalians,
Presbyterians, Independents, Quakers, Pap-
ists, and Infidels, have the power of deter-
mining how many prelates, and pastors, they
shall have.

3. They object, that in consequence of this
control and authority which these Churches
concede to the civil government in religious
things, they are rendered incapable of re-
forming, purifying, or extending themselves,
or correcting any errors or abuses in their
system.

4. Holding, as Presbyterians do, that Christ
has ordained in his word, all the institutions
which his infinite wisdom judged necessary
for the edification of his spiritual body, and
has taught the best possible manner in which
they are to be administered and observed,
they object to the power claimed by these
Churches to decree rites and ceremonies in
the worship of God, and to alter the mode

OF THE PRESEYTEKIAN CHURCH. 39

in which he has appointed his own institu-
tions to be observed. Prov. xxx. 6. Rev.
xxii. IS.

Q. 5. What objections have Presbyterians
to the Episcopal Church in general ?

A. They cannot assent to such ceremonies
as the following, which this Church has de-
creed, and which have no warrant in Scrip-
ture : — The numerous festivals appointed and
observed by this Church, — sponsors in bap-
tism,— the practice of sponsors making vows
in the name of the child, and of taking on
them obligations which cannot in the nature
of things be fulfilled, and which parents alone
can fulfil, — using the sign of the cross in bap-
tism,— confirmation by a prelate, — bowing at
the name Jesus, — kneeling at the Lord's
Supper, — the private administration of the
Lord's Supper, — consecration of churches,
burying grounds, and the sacramental ele-
ments,— the superstitious use made of the
bread and wine remaining after the com-
munion,— and the absolution of the sick.
Matt. XV. 9.

Q. 6. As some of these ceremonies appear
unimportant in themselves, why is the ob-
servance of them a ground of serious ob-
jection ?

A. Because such observance encourages
superstition and will-worship ; is opposed to
the sufliiciency of the Scriptures, as the only
rule of faith and practice ; and upholds the
unscriptural and pernicious principle, that
men may innocently and profitably add to

40 GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

the institutions of Christ, and the terms of
communion in his Church. Col. ii. 20,23.

Q. 7. Have Presbyterians any further ob-
jections to the Episcopal Church ?

A. Yes. They cannot approve of ' The
Book of Common Prayer,' considering that
the use of it tends to prevent the exercise of
spiritual gifts, and induce formality and dead-
ness in devotion ; and that, in its general
form and construction, it is imperfect and er-
roneous, containing useless repetitions, — un-
suitable petitions, — lessons from the Apo-
crypha,— a confused and irregular arrange-
ment of the prayers, — and bears so general a
resemblance to the mass-book, from which
many of its prayers are taken.

They object to the exercise of Church gov-
ernment, and the power of ordination being
vested exclusively in prelates. 1 Tim. iv. 14.

They cannot admit the doctrine, distinctly
taught in the Prayer Book, that by water-
baptism an infant is ' regenerated,' ' made a
member of Christ,' and ' the child of God.'
Jas. i. IS; 1 Pet. i. 23.

They lament the extreme laxity of these
churches, in reference to discipline.

Q. 8. In what light do Presbyterians view
those Churches called Independent, or Con-
gregational?

A. They regard all of them who profess
what are termed the doctrines of grace, as
being also churches of Christ ; but object to
their peculiar constitution, — the principle of
which is, that particular congregations are

OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 41

Churches independent of each other, and not
subordinate to superior courts, and that all
the members of the Church have authority
to exercise government, and to vote in every
case of disciphne on which the Church is
called to decide.

Q. 9. Why do they object to this system
of Church government ?

A. (1.) It is inconsistent with the oneness of
the Church, as founded on the oneness of her
Divine Head, — her faith, — her baptism, and
the whole system of her laws and ordinances,
and with the description given of her in Scrip-
ture, by allusion to the human body, 1 Cor.
xii. 12, 26, 27 ; to a kingdom, John xviii. 36 ;
and to an army under one commander, Rev.
XX. 9.

(2.) It is opposed to the constitution of the
primitive Church. (See chapter I, question
3, section 4.)

(3.) It confounds the distinction plainly ex-
pressed in Scripture, between the rulers of
the Church, and those who are ruled. Heb.
xiii. 17, 24.

(4.) Because of the disadvantages to which
it is liable.

Firsts From the undue control which
people have it in their power to exercise over
their pastor. Should he, by faithfully preach-
ing some truth dishked by them, or by re-
proving some sin to which they were ad-
dicted, give any offence, or should the people

at any time take a fancy for another preacher,

4 *

42 GOVERNMENT AND DISCIPLINE

he is liable at once to be expelled from his
oifice.

Second, From the want of any court of
review to which an individual might appeal,
in case of being aggrieved in judgment,
through prejudice or party feeling, or impro-
per influence in the congregation of which
he is pastor or member, Acts xv. 2.

Thwd, From the inability of separate con-
gregations to accomphsh one of the most im-
portant purposes for which the Church has
been established on earth, — that is, to extend
the kingdom of Christ. Independents, when
making eff'orts to propagate the gospel, are
obhged to act, not in the character of a
Church, but as members of promiscuous so-
cieties.

CONCLUSION.

Q. 10. What then are the general conside-
rations which should attach Presbyterians
with zealous affection to their own church ?

A. Its Scripture character, its freedom from
those many and weighty objections which lie
against other systems, and the religious pri-
vileges and advantages which its members
enjoy.

Q. 11. What are these privileges and ad-
vantages?

A. Having the right of choosing their
own pastors and rulers, — freedom from des-
potic power on the one liand, and anarchy

OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 43

on the other, in the government of their
Church — the means and opportunities of
bringing before the rulers of the church, for
mvestigation and judgment, unfaithfuhiess in
Ministers and Elders, offences of Church
members, and errors in doctrine, — the privi-
lege and power of appeal from one Church
Court to another, when their rights as citizens
of Zion are injured or assailed ; and such an
ecclesiastical constitution and arrangement of
their church, that it contains within itself the
capacity of reforming abuses and errors, and
has the best machinery for extending the
boundaries of the Redeemer's kingdom, and
perfecting the body of Christ.

Q. 12. How should Presbyterians employ
and improve these privileges ?

A. They should use them thankfully and
faithfully for their own edification, — the
bringing other churches to conformity to the
laws of Christ's house, and for prosecuting
Missionary labours in their own land, and
throughout the world, until all the ends of
the earth shall see the salvation of God.

THE END.

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