A61661:102
The doctrine of instituted churches explained and proved from the word of God
The doctrine of instituted churches explained and proved from the word of God by Solomon Stoddard ...
London: printed for Ralph Smith, 1700
Modern spelling is a reading aid: the words are the author’s, only the spelling is modernized. Original shows the page as printed, with the transcription marks.
Men are required to be ready to give an Answer to every one that asketh them a reason of the hope that is in them; but here by the reason of the hope that is in them, we are not to understand their experiences of the Grace of God, but the grounds of their Faith, the reason why they did believe the Christian Doctrine? This is evident, because he is speaking of Persecution, v. 14. and because he directs them to give their Answer with meekness and fear.
Quest. Here it may be enquired, whether such Persons as have a good Conversation and a Competent Knowledge, may come to the Lords Supper, with a good Conscience, in case they know themselves to be in a Natural Condition?
Answ. They may and ought to come, tho they know themselves to be in a Natural Condition; this Ordinance is instituted for all the Adult Members of the Church who are not scandalous, and therefore must be attended by them; as no Man may neglect Prayer, or hearing the Word, because he cannot do it in Faith, so he may not neglect the Lords Supper.
The Lords Supper is Instituted to be a means of Regeneration, it is not appointed for the Converting of Men to the Christian Religion, for only such as are Converted may partake of it; but it is not only for the strengthening of Saints, but a means also to work saving Regeneration.