Reformed Confessions & Catechisms

Angels

17 passages across 8 documents address Angels. The full text of each is below.

About this doctrine

I. The Nature, Essence, and Creation of Angels

"That there are intelligent creatures higher than man, has been a general belief. It is so consonant with the analogy of nature as to be in the highest degree probable, apart from any direct revelation on the subject." "As this is in itself probable, it is clearly revealed in the Bible to be true." "As to the nature of angels, they are described, (1.) As pure spirits, i.e., immaterial and incorporeal beings." "As such, therefore, they are invisible, incorruptible, and immortal. Their relation to space is described as an illocalitas..." [Charles Hodge - Systematic Theology]

"The name angel, under which we usually comprehend the whole class of the higher, spiritual beings, is in Scripture not a nomen naturae but a nomen officii. The Hebr. mal’ak simply means messenger, envoy..." "...the creation of the angels is clearly expressed in Col. 1:16, and is implied in the creation of all things, Gen. 1:1, Ps. 33:6, Joh. 1:3, Rom. 11:36, Ef. 3:9, Hebr. 1:2." [Herman Bavinck - Reformed Dogmatics]

"Angels being the ministers appointed to execute the commands of God, must, of course, be admitted to be his creatures (Ps. 103:20-21)..." [John Calvin - Institutes]

"Angels and the souls of men are created spirits, and depend in their being upon God; but God is an uncreated spirit, and dependeth in his being upon none." "Angels are called the sons of God; but they are sons of God by creation." [Thomas Vincent - The Shorter Catechism]

"The Angels and Adam before the fall are Sons of God by the grace of creation; because God created them that he might have them for sons, and that they on the other hand might acknowledge and praise him as their gracious Father." [Zacharias Ursinus - Commentary on the Heidelberg]

II. The Distinction Between Angels and Men

"However much agreement there may be between human being and angel, there is no less great difference. There are indeed all kinds of traits of the image of God in the angels, but the human being alone is the image of God." "...the angel is spirit and as spirit complete; the human being, on the other hand, is soul and body together; the soul without the body is incomplete." "...the angels as purely spiritual beings are also not mutually bound by bonds of blood." "The angels are witnesses, human beings are objects of God’s most glorious deeds, of the works of His grace." "Even if the angel may be the more powerful spirit, the human being is nevertheless the richer spirit." [Herman Bavinck - Reformed Dogmatics]

"God has made his children, by adoption, nearer to himself than the angels. The angels are the friends of Christ: believers are his members—and this honor have all the saints." [Thomas Watson - The Lord's Prayer]

"Adoption... whereby we differ... (2.) From the angels, who are God's sons by creation." [Thomas Vincent - The Shorter Catechism]

"Christ is the Son, not by the grace of adoption as is true of men, nor by that of creation as is true of Angels, but by nature." [Zacharias Ursinus - Commentary on the Heidelberg]

III. Intellectual, Moral, and Powerful Attributes

"As spirits they are possessed of intelligence, will, and power... in their intellectual faculties and in the extent of their knowledge they are far superior to man. Their power also is very great, and extends over mind and matter."

"However great their power may be, it is nevertheless subject to all the limitations which belong to creatures. Angels, therefore, cannot create, they cannot change substances, they cannot alter the laws of nature, they cannot perform miracles, they cannot act without means, and they cannot search the heart; for all these are, in Scripture, declared to be prerogatives peculiar to God." [Charles Hodge - Systematic Theology]

"Angels are also called gods, in view of the dignity and excellency of their nature, power and wisdom, in which they greatly excel other creatures..." "That knowledge of God is perfect which the blessed angels and saints have in the heavenly world, by which they have a most clear perception of God, or at least as much as is necessary for the conformity of rational creatures with God." "The good angels are inclined only to that which is good, because they are good; just as the bad angels, on the other hand, are inclined only to that which is evil, because they are evil." "...yet subject to change." [Zacharias Ursinus - Commentary on the Heidelberg]

IV. Hierarchy, Classes, and Orders of the Heavenly Host

"These holy angels are evidently not all of the same rank. This appears from the terms by which they are designated; terms which imply diversity of order and authority." [Charles Hodge - Systematic Theology]

"Wherefore, if we would be duly wise, we must renounce those vain babblings of idle men, concerning the nature, ranks, and number of angels, without any authority from the Word of God." "They are called hosts (Luke 2:13), because they surround their Prince as his court, - adorn and display his majesty, - like soldiers, have their eyes always turned to their leader's standard, and are so ready and prompt to execute his orders, that the moment he gives the nod, they prepare for, or rather are actually at work." [John Calvin - Institutes]

"Scripture then also clearly teaches that among the angels there is all manner of distinction, of rank and station, of dignity and service, of office and honour, even of class and kind." "The class of the cherubim is mentioned first in Scripture. They appear in Gen. 3:24 as guardians of the garden." "In tabernacle and temple they are depicted above the ark with faces turned toward the mercy seat, and with wings that cover the mercy seat... and between which the Lord dwells..." "Seraphim are the nobles, cherubim are the strong ones among the angels."

"Finally, with Daniel there still occur two angels with proper names, namely Gabriel... and Michael... who both, in deviation from many earlier and later interpreters... are to be regarded as created angels and may not be identified with the Son of God." [Herman Bavinck - Reformed Dogmatics]

V. The Ordinary and Extraordinary Ministry of Angels

"The Scriptures teach that the holy angels are employed, (1.) In the worship of God. (2.) In executing the will of God. (3.) And especially in ministering to the heirs of salvation." [Charles Hodge - Systematic Theology]

"But the point on which the Scriptures specially insist is that which tends most to our comfort, and to the confirmation of our faith, namely, that angels are the ministers and dispensers of the divine bounty towards us." "Accordingly, we are told how they watch for our safety, how they undertake our defence, direct our path, and take heed that no evil befall us." [John Calvin - Institutes]

"He appoints his holy angels to be a lifeguard about his children." "The angels are a numerous guard... a strong guard... a swift guard... a watchful guard..." [Thomas Watson - The Lord's Prayer]

"Whether or not each believer has a single angel assigned to him for his defence, I dare not positively affirm." "This, indeed, I hold for certain, that each of us is cared for, not by one angel merely, but that all with one consent watch for our safety." "Those, again, who limit the care which God takes of each of us to a single angel, do great injury to themselves and to all the members of the Church, as if there were no value in those promises of auxiliary troops..." [John Calvin - Institutes]

"The angels not only execute the will of God in the natural world, but they also act on the minds of men. They have access to our minds and can influence them for good in accordance with the laws of our nature and in the use of appropriate means." [Charles Hodge - Systematic Theology]

"The extraordinary service of the angels thus consists in this, that they accompany the history of salvation at its turning points. They do not themselves bring that salvation to pass, but they nevertheless take part in the history of that salvation." [Herman Bavinck - Reformed Dogmatics]

"In the kingdom of heaven we shall enjoy the society of 'an innumerable company of angels.'""...the society with angels will make the delight of heaven the greater..." [Thomas Watson - The Lord's Prayer]

VI. The Sin of Veneration and the Prohibition of Angel Worship

"At the same time they must not come between us and God. We are not to look to them nor to invoke their aid." [Charles Hodge - Systematic Theology]

"...the veneration of angels is not only without precept and without example in Scripture... it is also positively forbidden in it, Deut. 6:13, 10:20, Mt. 4:10, Col. 2:18, 19, Op. 19:10, 22:9. Religious honor may according to Scripture be rendered only to God and belongs to no creature." [Herman Bavinck - Reformed Dogmatics]

"It is idolatry to direct our prayers unto any creature, God being the alone object of this and all other religious worship; therefore we ought not to direct our prayers unto angels (who have refused worship), much less unto any saints." [Thomas Vincent - The Shorter Catechism]

"There is but one Mediator and Intercessor in heaven for us, namely, the Lord Jesus Christ, and it is an affront to him to make use of any angels or saints as our intercessors." [Thomas Vincent - The Shorter Catechism]

"...seeing there is but one God, we must not worship or adore any one beside him; neither must we look any where else than to this one God for all good things; and be thankful to him alone for what we have received." [Zacharias Ursinus - Commentary on the Heidelberg]

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Question 124

Q. What does the third petition mean?

A. "Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven" means: Help us and all people to renounce our own wills and without any back talk to obey your will, for it alone is good. Help everyone carry out his office and calling, as willingly and faithfully as the angels in heaven.

Scripture proofs
  • Matt. 7:21; 16:24–26; Luke 22:42; Rom. 12:1–2; Titus 2:11–12.

    Matt. 7:21 Not everyone who [is] saying to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter into the kingdom of the heavens, but the one doing the will of My Father who [is] in the heavens.

    16:24–26 24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone wants to come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. 25 For whoever may want to save his life will lose it, but whoever may lose his life on account of Me will find it. 26 For what will it profit a man if he should gain the whole world, but lose his soul? Or what will a man give [as] an exchange for his soul?

    Luke 22:42 saying, “Father, if You are willing, take away this cup from Me. Yet not My will, but Yours, be done.”

    Rom. 12:1–2 1 Therefore I exhort you⁺, brothers, through the compassions of God, to present your⁺ bodies [as] a living sacrifice, holy to God, well-pleasing, which is your⁺ reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of the mind, for you⁺ to discern what [is] the good and well-pleasing and perfect will of God.

    Titus 2:11–12 11 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, 12 instructing us that having denied ungodliness and worldly passions, we should live sound-mindedly and righteously and godlily in the present age,

  • 1 Cor. 7:17–24; Eph. 6:5–9.

    1 Cor. 7:17–24 17 Nevertheless, as the Lord apportioned to each, as God has called each, thus let him walk. And thus I direct in all the churches. 18 Was anyone called having been circumcised? Let him not become uncircumcised. Has anyone been called in uncircumcision? Let him not be circumcised. 19 Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing, but keeping of the commandments of God. 20 Each in the calling in which he has been called—in this let him remain. 21 Were you called [while] a slave? Let it not be a care to you; but if also you have power to become free, rather use [it]. 22 For the one having been called in the Lord [while] a slave is the Lord’s freedman; likewise the one having been called [while] free is a slave of Christ. 23 You⁺ were bought with a price; do not become slaves of men. 24 Each in that in which he was called, brothers—in this let him remain with God.

    Eph. 6:5–9 5 Slaves, obey the masters according to the flesh with fear and trembling, in sincerity of your⁺ heart, as to Christ, 6 not with eye-service as men-pleasers, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from the soul, 7 serving with good will, as to the Lord and not to men, 8 knowing that each one, whatever good he might have done, this he will receive from the Lord, whether slave or free. 9 And masters, do the same things toward them, giving up threatening, knowing that also their Master and yours⁺ is in the heavens, and there is no partiality with Him.

  • Ps. 103:20–21.

    Ps. 103:20–21 20 Bless YHWH, His angels, mighty of strength, doing His word, to listen to the voice of His word. 21 Bless YHWH, all His hosts, His ministering ones doing His pleasure.

Parallel passages (6+)Westminster Larger Catechism · Question 1273 shared proof texts · shared topicWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 16: Of Good Works3 shared proof textsWestminster Larger Catechism · Question 973 shared proof textsWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 19: Of the Law of God3 shared proof textsWestminster Shorter Catechism · Question 1032 shared proof texts · 3 shared topicsWestminster Larger Catechism · Question 1922 shared proof texts · 3 shared topics

Article 12: The Creation of All Things

We believe that the Father created heaven and earth and all other creatures from nothing, when it seemed good to him, by his Word—that is to say, by his Son. He has given all creatures their being, form, and appearance, and their various functions for serving their Creator. Even now he also sustains and governs them all, according to his eternal providence, and by his infinite power, that they may serve man, in order that man may serve God.

He has also created the angels good, that they might be his messengers and serve his elect. Some of them have fallen from the excellence in which God created them into eternal perdition; and the others have persisted and remained in their original state, by the grace of God. The devils and evil spirits are so corrupt that they are enemies of God and of everything good. They lie in wait for the church and every member of it like thieves, with all their power, to destroy and spoil everything by their deceptions. So then, by their own wickedness they are condemned to everlasting damnation, daily awaiting their torments. For that reason we detest the error of the Sadducees, who deny that there are spirits and angels, and also the error of the Manicheans, who say that the devils originated by themselves, being evil by nature, without having been corrupted.

Parallel passages (2)Westminster Larger Catechism · Question 193 shared topicsSecond Helvetic Confession · Chapter 8: Of Man's Fall, Sin, and the Cause of Sin3 shared topics

Article 37: The Last Judgment

Finally, we believe, according to God's Word, that when the time appointed by the Lord is come (which is unknown to all creatures) and the number of the elect is complete, our Lord Jesus Christ will come from heaven, bodily and visibly, as he ascended, with great glory and majesty, to declare himself the judge of the living and the dead. He will burn this old world, in fire and flame, in order to cleanse it.

Then all human creatures will appear in person before that great judge—men, women, and children, who have lived from the beginning until the end of the world. They will be summoned there by the voice of the archangel and by the sound of the divine trumpet.

For all those who died before that time will be raised from the earth, their spirits being joined and united with their own bodies in which they lived. And as for those who are still alive, they will not die like the others but will be changed "in the twinkling of an eye" from "corruptible to incorruptible." Then "the books" (that is, the consciences) will be opened, and the dead will be judged according to the things they did in the world, whether good or evil.

Indeed, all people will give account of all the idle words they have spoken, which the world regards as only playing games. And then the secrets and hypocrisies of men will be publicly uncovered in the sight of all.

Therefore, with good reason the thought of this judgment is horrible and dreadful to wicked and evil people.

But it is very pleasant and a great comfort to the righteous and elect, since their total redemption will then be accomplished. They will then receive the fruits of their labor and of the trouble they have suffered; their innocence will be openly recognized by all; and they will see the terrible vengeance that God will bring on the evil ones who tyrannized, oppressed, and tormented them in this world.

The evil ones will be convicted by the witness of their own consciences, and shall be made immortal—but only to be tormented in the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels.

In contrast, the faithful and elect will be crowned with glory and honor. The Son of God will "confess their names" before God his Father and the holy and elect angels; all tears will be "wiped from their eyes"; and their cause—at present condemned as heretical and evil by many judges and civil officers—will be acknowledged as the "cause of the Son of God." And as a gracious reward the Lord will make them possess a glory such as the heart of man could never imagine.

So we look forward to that great day with longing in order to enjoy fully the promises of God in Christ Jesus, our Lord.

Scripture proofs
  • 1 Thess. 4:16.

    1 Thess. 4:16 because the Lord Himself with a loud command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God will descend from heaven, and the dead in Christ will rise first.

  • 1 Cor. 15:51–53.

    1 Cor. 15:51–53 51 Behold, I speak to you⁺ a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed— 52 in an instant, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. 53 For it is necessary for this, the corruptible to put on incorruptibility, and this, the mortal to put on immortality.

  • Rev. 20:12.

    Rev. 20:12 And I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the one of life. And the dead were judged out of the things written in the books, according to their works.

  • Matt. 12:36.

    Matt. 12:36 And I say to you⁺ that every careless word that men will speak, they will give an account concerning it in the day of judgment.

  • Matt. 25:14.

    Matt. 25:14 For [it is] like a man going on a journey [who] called his own servants and delivered his possessions to them.

  • Matt. 10:32.

    Matt. 10:32 Therefore everyone who will confess in Me before men, I will also confess in him before My Father who [is] in the heavens.

  • Rev. 7:17.

    Rev. 7:17 because the Lamb in the middle of the throne will shepherd them, ‘and He will lead them to fountains living of waters,’ and ‘God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.’”

Parallel passages (6+)Westminster Larger Catechism · Question 874 shared proof textsSecond Helvetic Confession · Chapter 11: Of Jesus Christ, Being True God and Man, and the Only Savior of the World2 shared proof texts · 3 shared topicsWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 32: Of the State of Men After Death, and of the Resurrection of the Dead2 shared proof texts · 2 shared topicsLondon Baptist Confession (1689) · Chapter 31: Of the State of Man After Death, and of the Resurrection of the Dead2 shared proof texts · 2 shared topicsWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 25: Of the Church2 shared proof textsWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 33: Of the Last Judgment1 shared proof text · 3 shared topics

Chapter 3: Of God's Eternal Decree

1. God, from all eternity, did, by the most wise and holy counsel of his own will, freely, and unchangeably ordain whatsoever comes to pass: yet so, as thereby neither is God the author of sin, nor is violence offered to the will of the creatures; nor is the liberty or contingency of second causes taken away, but rather established.

2. Although God knows whatsoever may or can come to pass upon all supposed conditions, yet hath he not decreed anything because he foresaw it as future, or as that which would come to pass upon such conditions.

3. By the decree of God, for the manifestation of his glory, some men and angels are predestinated unto everlasting life; and others foreordained to everlasting death.

4. These angels and men, thus predestinated, and foreordained, are particularly and unchangeably designed, and their number so certain and definite, that it cannot be either increased or diminished.

5. Those of mankind that are predestinated unto life, God, before the foundation of the world was laid, according to his eternal and immutable purpose, and the secret counsel and good pleasure of his will, hath chosen, in Christ, unto everlasting glory, out of his mere free grace and love, without any foresight of faith, or good works, or perseverance in either of them, or any other thing in the creature, as conditions, or causes moving him thereunto; and all to the praise of his glorious grace.

6. As God hath appointed the elect unto glory, so hath he, by the eternal and most free purpose of his will, foreordained all the means thereunto. Wherefore, they who are elected, being fallen in Adam, are redeemed by Christ, are effectually called unto faith in Christ by his Spirit working in due season, are justified, adopted, sanctified, and kept by his power, through faith, unto salvation. Neither are any other redeemed by Christ, effectually called, justified, adopted, sanctified, and saved, but the elect only.

7. The rest of mankind God was pleased, according to the unsearchable counsel of his own will, whereby he extendeth or withholdeth mercy, as he pleaseth, for the glory of his sovereign power over his creatures, to pass by; and to ordain them to dishonor and wrath for their sin, to the praise of his glorious justice.

8. The doctrine of this high mystery of predestination is to be handled with special prudence and care, that men, attending the will of God revealed in his Word, and yielding obedience thereunto, may, from the certainty of their effectual vocation, be assured of their eternal election. So shall this doctrine afford matter of praise, reverence, and admiration of God; and of humility, diligence, and abundant consolation to all that sincerely obey the gospel.

Scripture proofs
  • Ps. 33:11; Eph. 1:11; Heb. 6:17.

    Ps. 33:11 The counsel of YHWH stands forever, the plans of His heart from generation and [to] generation.

    Eph. 1:11 in Him, in whom also we obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of the One working all things according to the counsel of His will

    Heb. 6:17 in which God, willing to show more abundantly the unchangeableness of His purpose to the heirs of the promise, guaranteed [it] by an oath,

  • Ps. 5:4; James 1:13–14; 1 John 1:5. (See Hab. 1:13.)

    Ps. 5:4 For You [are] not a God delighting in wickedness; evil shall not sojourn with You.

    James 1:13–14 13 Let no one being tempted say, “I am being tempted from God.” For God is unable to be tempted by evils, and He Himself tempts no one. 14 But each one is tempted, being dragged away and being enticed by [his] own desire.

    1 John 1:5 And this is the message that we have heard from Him and we announce to you⁺, that God is light, and in Him is no darkness—none.

    Hab. 1:13 Purer of eyes than to behold evil, and You are not able to look on wickedness. Why do You look on those acting treacherously, [and] remain quiet when the wicked is devouring one more righteous than he?

  • Acts 2:23; Matt. 17:12; Acts 4:27–28; John 19:11; Prov. 16:33.

    Acts 2:23 Him delivered up by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, you⁺ put to death, having crucified by lawless hands—

    Matt. 17:12 But I say to you⁺ that Elijah did already come, and they did not know him, but they did to him whatever they wanted. Thus also the Son of Man is about to suffer under them.”

    Acts 4:27–28 27 For in truth, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, were gathered together in this city against Your holy servant Jesus, whom You anointed, 28 to do whatever Your hand and Your purpose predetermined to happen.

    John 19:11 Jesus answered him, “You would have no authority over Me if it were not given to you from above. Because of this, the one having delivered Me up to you has greater sin.”

    Prov. 16:33 Into the lap the lot is cast, and all its judgment [is] from YHWH.

  • 1 Sam. 23:11–12; Matt. 11:21, 23.

    1 Sam. 23:11–12 11 Will the men of Keilah shut me up into his hand? Will Saul come down, as Your servant has heard? O YHWH, God of Israel, declare, please, to Your servant.” And YHWH said, “He will come down.” 12 And David said, “Will the men of Keilah shut up me and my men into the hand of Saul?” And YHWH said, “They will shut [you] up.”

    Matt. 11:21, 23 21 “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles having happened in you⁺ had happened in Tyre and Sidon, long ago in sackcloth and ashes they would have repented. 23 And you, Capernaum, to heaven will you be lifted up? To Hades you will be brought down! For if the miracles having happened in you had happened in Sodom, it would have remained until [this] day.

  • Rom. 9:11, 13, 16, 18.

    Rom. 9:11, 13, 16, 18 11 for they not yet having been born nor having done anything good or evil, so that the purpose of God according to election might stand— 13 As it has been written: “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.” 16 So then, [it is] not of the one willing, nor of the one running, but of God having mercy. 18 So then, He has mercy on whom He wants, and He hardens whom He wants.

  • 1 Tim. 5:21; Jude 6; Matt. 25:31, 41.

    1 Tim. 5:21 I earnestly testify before God and Christ Jesus and the chosen angels that you should keep these things without prejudice, doing nothing according to partiality.

    Matt. 25:31, 41 31 And when the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, then He will sit upon the throne of His glory. 41 Then also He will say to those on [His] left, ‘Depart from Me, the cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.

    Jude 6 on BibleHub ↗

  • Eph. 1:5–6; Rom. 9:22–23; Prov. 16:4.

    Eph. 1:5–6 5 having predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, 6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He graciously gave us in the Beloved One,

    Rom. 9:22–23 22 And [what] if God, desiring to display the wrath and to make known His power, bore with much patience vessels of wrath, having been fitted for destruction, 23 so that He might also make known the riches of His glory upon vessels of mercy, which He prepared beforehand for glory,

    Prov. 16:4 YHWH has made everything for its own end—even the wicked for the day of evil.

  • John 13:18; 2 Tim. 2:19. (See John 10:14–16, 27–28; 17:2, 6, 9–12.)

    John 13:18 I speak not about all of you⁺—I know whom I chose—but so that the Scripture may be fulfilled: ‘The one eating My bread lifted up his heel against Me.’

    2 Tim. 2:19 Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God has stood, having this seal: “The Lord knows those being His,” and, “Let everyone naming the name of the Lord depart from unrighteousness.”

    John 10:14–16, 27–28 14 I am the good shepherd, and I know My own, and My own know Me— 15 just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father—and I lay down My life for the sheep. 16 And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. It is necessary for Me to bring those also, and they will hear My voice, and there will be one flock [and] one shepherd. 27 My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. 28 And I give them eternal life, and never shall they perish to the age, and no one will snatch them out of My hand.

    17:2, 6, 9–12 2 as You gave to Him authority over all flesh, so that all whom You have given to Him, He may give to them eternal life. 6 I revealed Your name to the men whom You gave to Me out of the world. They were Yours, and to Me You gave them, and they have kept Your word. 9 I ask concerning them. I do not ask concerning the world, but concerning those whom You have given to Me, for they are Yours. 10 And all things of Mine are Yours, and Yours Mine, and I have been glorified in them. 11 And I am no longer in the world, and they are themselves in the world, and I am coming to You. Holy Father, keep them in Your name, which You have given to Me, so that they may be one as We [are]. 12 When I was with them, I was keeping them in Your name, which You have given to Me. And I guarded [them], and none of them perished except the son of destruction, so that the Scripture might be fulfilled.

  • Eph. 1:4, 9, 11; Rom. 8:28–30; 2 Tim. 1:9; 1 Thess. 5:9.

    Eph. 1:4, 9, 11 4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world for us to be holy and blameless before Him, in love 9 having made known to us the mystery of His will according to His good pleasure, which He purposed in Him 11 in Him, in whom also we obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of the One working all things according to the counsel of His will

    Rom. 8:28–30 28 And we know that God works together all things for good to those loving God, to those being called according to purpose, 29 because whom He foreknew, He also predestined [to be] conformed to the image of His Son, for Him to be firstborn among many brothers. 30 And whom He predestined, these also He called; and whom He called, these also He justified; and whom He justified, these also He glorified.

    2 Tim. 1:9 the One having saved us and having called [us] with a holy calling, not according to our works but according to His own purpose and grace, having been given to us in Christ Jesus before times eternal,

    1 Thess. 5:9 because God did not set us for wrath, but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ,

  • Rom. 9:11, 13, 15–16; Eph. 2:8–9. (See Eph. 1:5, 9, 11.)

    Rom. 9:11, 13, 15–16 11 for they not yet having been born nor having done anything good or evil, so that the purpose of God according to election might stand— 13 As it has been written: “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.” 15 For He says to Moses: “I will have mercy on whom I may have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I may have compassion.” 16 So then, [it is] not of the one willing, nor of the one running, but of God having mercy.

    Eph. 2:8–9 8 For by grace you⁺ are saved through faith, and this not of yourselves; [it is] the gift of God, 9 not by works, so that no one may boast.

    Eph. 1:5, 9, 11 5 having predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, 9 having made known to us the mystery of His will according to His good pleasure, which He purposed in Him 11 in Him, in whom also we obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of the One working all things according to the counsel of His will

  • Eph. 1:6, 12.

    Eph. 1:6, 12 6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He graciously gave us in the Beloved One, 12 for us to be to the praise of His glory, the ones having first hoped in Christ,

  • 1 Peter 1:2; Eph. 2:10; 2 Thess. 2:13.

    1 Peter 1:2 according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit for obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: May grace and peace be multiplied to you⁺.

    Eph. 2:10 For we are His workmanship, having been created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

    2 Thess. 2:13 But we ought to give thanks to God always concerning you⁺, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you⁺ from the beginning unto salvation in the sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth,

  • 1 Thess. 5:9–10; Titus 2:14.

    1 Thess. 5:9–10 9 because God did not set us for wrath, but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 the One having died for us, so that whether we may watch or we may sleep, we may live together with Him.

    Titus 2:14 who gave Himself for us that He might redeem us from all lawlessness and might purify to Himself a people specially His, zealous for good works.

  • Rom. 8:30. (See Eph. 1:5; 2 Thess. 2:13.)

    Rom. 8:30 And whom He predestined, these also He called; and whom He called, these also He justified; and whom He justified, these also He glorified.

    Eph. 1:5 having predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will,

    2 Thess. 2:13 But we ought to give thanks to God always concerning you⁺, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you⁺ from the beginning unto salvation in the sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth,

  • 1 Peter 1:5.

    1 Peter 1:5 who [are] being guarded in the power of God through faith for the salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

  • John 10:14–15, 26; John 6:64–65; Rom. 8:28–39. (See John 8:47; 17:9; 1 John 2:19.)

    John 10:14–15, 26 14 I am the good shepherd, and I know My own, and My own know Me— 15 just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father—and I lay down My life for the sheep. 26 But you⁺ do not believe, because you⁺ are not of My sheep.

    John 6:64–65 64 But there are some of you⁺ who do not believe.” For Jesus had known from the beginning who are those not believing and who it is who will betray Him. 65 And He was saying, “Because of this, I have said to you⁺ that no one is able to come to Me unless it shall have been given to him from the Father.”

    Rom. 8:28–39 28 And we know that God works together all things for good to those loving God, to those being called according to purpose, 29 because whom He foreknew, He also predestined [to be] conformed to the image of His Son, for Him to be firstborn among many brothers. 30 And whom He predestined, these also He called; and whom He called, these also He justified; and whom He justified, these also He glorified. 31 What then will we say to these things? If God [is] for us, who [can be] against us— 32 He who indeed did not spare [His] own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how will He not also with Him graciously give us all things? 33 Who will bring an accusation against the chosen ones of God? God [is] the One justifying. 34 Who [is] the one condemning? Christ Jesus the One having died, now rather having been raised, [is] He who is also at the right hand of God, and who is interceding for us. 35 Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it has been written: “For Your sake we face death all the day; we were reckoned as sheep of slaughter.” 37 But in all these things we are more than conquerors through the One having loved us. 38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities, nor things present nor things about to be, nor powers, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God that [is] in Christ Jesus our Lord.

    John 8:47 The one being of God hears the words of God; because of this you⁺ do not hear, because you⁺ are not of God.”

    17:9 I ask concerning them. I do not ask concerning the world, but concerning those whom You have given to Me, for they are Yours.

    1 John 2:19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have remained with us. But [it is] so that it might be made manifest that they are not all of us.

  • Matt. 11:25–26; Rom. 9:17–18, 21–22; Jude 4; 1 Peter 2:8; 2 Tim. 2:19–20.

    Matt. 11:25–26 25 In that time, answering, Jesus said, “I acknowledge You, Father, Lord of the heaven and of the earth, because You hid these things from the wise and intelligent, and You revealed them to little children. 26 Yes, Father, because of this it was good pleasure before You.

    Rom. 9:17–18, 21–22 17 For the Scripture says to Pharaoh: “For this very thing I raised you up, so that I might display My power in you, and that My name should be declared in all the earth.” 18 So then, He has mercy on whom He wants, and He hardens whom He wants. 21 Or does the potter not have authority over the clay to make out of the same lump the one vessel indeed for honor, but the one for dishonor? 22 And [what] if God, desiring to display the wrath and to make known His power, bore with much patience vessels of wrath, having been fitted for destruction,

    1 Peter 2:8 and, “A stone of stumbling and a rock of offense.” [They] stumble at the word, being disobedient, to which also they were appointed.

    2 Tim. 2:19–20 19 Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God has stood, having this seal: “The Lord knows those being His,” and, “Let everyone naming the name of the Lord depart from unrighteousness.” 20 Now in a great house there are not only golden and silver vessels, but also wooden and earthen; and some indeed for honor, but some for dishonor.

    Jude 4 on BibleHub ↗

  • Rom. 9:20; Rom. 11:33; Deut. 29:29.

    Rom. 9:20 But rather, O man, who are you answering against God? [Will] the thing formed say to the One having formed [it], “Why did you make me thus?”

    Rom. 11:33 O, the depth of riches, both of wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and untraceable His ways!

    Deut. 29:29 The things hidden are of YHWH our God, and the things revealed [are] to us and to our sons even to forever, that [we] may do all the words of this law.

  • 2 Peter 1:10; 1 Thess. 1:4–5.

    2 Peter 1:10 Therefore, brothers, be diligent, rather, to make your⁺ calling and election sure. For [in] doing these things, never at any time shall you⁺ stumble.

    1 Thess. 1:4–5 4 knowing, brothers beloved by God, your⁺ election, 5 because our gospel came to you⁺ not in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with much full assurance, just as you⁺ know what we were among you⁺ on account of you⁺.

  • Eph. 1:6. (See Rom. 11:33.)

    Eph. 1:6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He graciously gave us in the Beloved One,

    Rom. 11:33 O, the depth of riches, both of wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and untraceable His ways!

  • Rom. 11:5–6, 20; Rom. 8:33; Luke 10:20. (See 2 Peter 1:10.)

    Rom. 11:5–6, 20 5 So then also in the present time, there has been a remnant according to the election of grace, 6 and if by grace, no longer out of works; otherwise grace no longer is grace. 20 Rightly so: They were broken off by unbelief, but you have stood by faith. Do not be high-minded, but be afraid.

    Rom. 8:33 Who will bring an accusation against the chosen ones of God? God [is] the One justifying.

    Luke 10:20 But do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you⁺; but rejoice that your⁺ names have been written in the heavens.”

    2 Peter 1:10 Therefore, brothers, be diligent, rather, to make your⁺ calling and election sure. For [in] doing these things, never at any time shall you⁺ stumble.

Parallel passages (6+)London Baptist Confession (1689) · Chapter 3: Of God's Eternal Decree38 shared proof texts · 16 shared topicsCanons of Dort · First Head: Rejection of the Errors14 shared proof texts · 12 shared topicsWestminster Larger Catechism · Question 1315 shared proof texts · 7 shared topicsHeidelberg Catechism · Question 5415 shared proof texts · 5 shared topicsWestminster Larger Catechism · Question 1211 shared proof texts · 4 shared topicsHeidelberg Catechism · Question 2611 shared proof texts · 2 shared topics

Question 103

Q. What do we pray for in the third petition?

A. In the third petition, which is, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven, we pray that God, by his grace, would make us able and willing to know, obey, and submit to his will in all things, as the angels do in heaven.

Scripture proofs
  • Ps. 19:14; Ps. 119; 1 Thess. 5:23; Heb. 13:20–21.

    Ps. 19:14 The words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart, let them be for favor before Your face, O YHWH, my Rock and my Redeemer.

    1 Thess. 5:23 Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you⁺ completely, and may your⁺ entire spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

    Heb. 13:20–21 20 Now [may] the God of peace, the One having brought up out from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep, our Lord Jesus, by the blood of the eternal covenant, 21 equip you⁺ in everything good in order to do His will, doing in us that which [is] well pleasing before Him, through Jesus Christ, to whom [be] the glory to the ages of the ages. Amen.

    Psalm 119 on BibleHub ↗

  • Ps. 103:20–21; Heb. 1:14.

    Ps. 103:20–21 20 Bless YHWH, His angels, mighty of strength, doing His word, to listen to the voice of His word. 21 Bless YHWH, all His hosts, His ministering ones doing His pleasure.

    Heb. 1:14 Are they not all ministering spirits being sent forth for service for the sake of those being about to inherit salvation?

Parallel passages (6+)Westminster Larger Catechism · Question 1926 shared proof texts · 3 shared topicsWestminster Larger Catechism · Question 1953 shared proof texts · 2 shared topicsHeidelberg Catechism · Question 1242 shared proof texts · 3 shared topicsWestminster Larger Catechism · Question 162 shared proof texts · shared topicWestminster Larger Catechism · Question 192 shared proof texts · shared topicWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 16: Of Good Works2 shared proof texts

Question 12

Q. What are the decrees of God?

A. God's decrees are the wise, free, and holy acts of the counsel of his will, whereby, from all eternity, he hath, for his own glory, unchangeably foreordained whatsoever comes to pass in time, especially concerning angels and men.

Scripture proofs
  • Isa. 45:6–7; Eph. 1:11; Rom. 11:33; Rom. 9:14–15, 18.

    Isa. 45:6–7 6 so that they may know, from the rising of the sun and from the west, that there is none besides Me. I [am] YHWH, and there is no other— 7 forming the light and creating darkness, making peace and creating calamity—I [am] YHWH, the One doing all these [things]!

    Eph. 1:11 in Him, in whom also we obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of the One working all things according to the counsel of His will

    Rom. 11:33 O, the depth of riches, both of wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and untraceable His ways!

    Rom. 9:14–15, 18 14 What then will we say? [Is there] injustice with God? Never may it be! 15 For He says to Moses: “I will have mercy on whom I may have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I may have compassion.” 18 So then, He has mercy on whom He wants, and He hardens whom He wants.

  • Ps. 33:11; Isa. 14:24; Acts 2:23; Acts 4:27–28; Rom. 9:22–23; Eph. 1:4, 11.

    Ps. 33:11 The counsel of YHWH stands forever, the plans of His heart from generation and [to] generation.

    Isa. 14:24 YHWH of Hosts has sworn, saying, “Surely as I have purposed, so it will be, and as I have counseled, [so] it will stand:

    Acts 2:23 Him delivered up by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, you⁺ put to death, having crucified by lawless hands—

    Acts 4:27–28 27 For in truth, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, were gathered together in this city against Your holy servant Jesus, whom You anointed, 28 to do whatever Your hand and Your purpose predetermined to happen.

    Rom. 9:22–23 22 And [what] if God, desiring to display the wrath and to make known His power, bore with much patience vessels of wrath, having been fitted for destruction, 23 so that He might also make known the riches of His glory upon vessels of mercy, which He prepared beforehand for glory,

    Eph. 1:4, 11 4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world for us to be holy and blameless before Him, in love 11 in Him, in whom also we obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of the One working all things according to the counsel of His will

Parallel passages (6+)Westminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 3: Of God's Eternal Decree11 shared proof texts · 4 shared topicsLondon Baptist Confession (1689) · Chapter 3: Of God's Eternal Decree9 shared proof texts · 4 shared topicsWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 5: Of Providence8 shared proof texts · 2 shared topicsWestminster Shorter Catechism · Question 74 shared proof texts · 3 shared topicsWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 2: Of God, and of the Holy Trinity4 shared proof texts · 2 shared topicsLondon Baptist Confession (1689) · Chapter 5: Of Divine Providence3 shared proof texts · 3 shared topics

Question 13

Q. What hath God especially decreed concerning angels and men?

A. God, by an eternal and immutable decree, out of his mere love, for the praise of his glorious grace, to be manifested in due time, hath elected some angels to glory; and in Christ hath chosen some men to eternal life, and the means thereof: and also, according to his sovereign power, and the unsearchable counsel of his own will, (whereby he extendeth or withholdeth favor as he pleaseth,) hath passed by and foreordained the rest to dishonor and wrath, to be for their sin inflicted, to the praise of the glory of his justice.

Scripture proofs
  • 1 Tim. 5:21.

    1 Tim. 5:21 I earnestly testify before God and Christ Jesus and the chosen angels that you should keep these things without prejudice, doing nothing according to partiality.

  • Eph. 1:4–6; Eph. 2:10; 2 Thess. 2:13–14; 1 Peter 1:2.

    Eph. 1:4–6 4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world for us to be holy and blameless before Him, in love 5 having predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, 6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He graciously gave us in the Beloved One,

    Eph. 2:10 For we are His workmanship, having been created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

    2 Thess. 2:13–14 13 But we ought to give thanks to God always concerning you⁺, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you⁺ from the beginning unto salvation in the sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth, 14 to which also He called you⁺ through our gospel to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

    1 Peter 1:2 according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit for obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: May grace and peace be multiplied to you⁺.

  • Rom. 9:17–18, 21–22; Matt. 11:25–26; 2 Tim. 2:20; Jude 4; 1 Peter 2:8.

    Rom. 9:17–18, 21–22 17 For the Scripture says to Pharaoh: “For this very thing I raised you up, so that I might display My power in you, and that My name should be declared in all the earth.” 18 So then, He has mercy on whom He wants, and He hardens whom He wants. 21 Or does the potter not have authority over the clay to make out of the same lump the one vessel indeed for honor, but the one for dishonor? 22 And [what] if God, desiring to display the wrath and to make known His power, bore with much patience vessels of wrath, having been fitted for destruction,

    Matt. 11:25–26 25 In that time, answering, Jesus said, “I acknowledge You, Father, Lord of the heaven and of the earth, because You hid these things from the wise and intelligent, and You revealed them to little children. 26 Yes, Father, because of this it was good pleasure before You.

    2 Tim. 2:20 Now in a great house there are not only golden and silver vessels, but also wooden and earthen; and some indeed for honor, but some for dishonor.

    1 Peter 2:8 and, “A stone of stumbling and a rock of offense.” [They] stumble at the word, being disobedient, to which also they were appointed.

    Jude 4 on BibleHub ↗

Parallel passages (6+)Westminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 3: Of God's Eternal Decree15 shared proof texts · 7 shared topicsLondon Baptist Confession (1689) · Chapter 3: Of God's Eternal Decree8 shared proof texts · 6 shared topicsCanons of Dort · First Head: Rejection of the Errors4 shared proof texts · 7 shared topicsWestminster Shorter Catechism · Question 204 shared proof texts · 4 shared topicsWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 10: Of Effectual Calling4 shared proof texts · 3 shared topicsCanons of Dort · First Head, Article 7: Election3 shared proof texts · 5 shared topics

Question 16

Q. How did God create angels?

A. God created all the angels spirits, immortal, holy, excelling in knowledge, mighty in power, to execute his commandments, and to praise his name, yet subject to change.

Scripture proofs
  • Col. 1:16.

    Col. 1:16 because in Him were created all things in the heavens and on the earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or lordships or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through Him and for Him.

  • Ps. 104:4.

    Ps. 104:4 making the winds His messengers, His servants flaming fire.

  • Matt. 22:30; Luke 20:36.

    Matt. 22:30 For in the resurrection, they neither marry nor are they given in marriage, but they are like angels in heaven.

    Luke 20:36 For neither are they able to die anymore, for they are like angels, and they are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection.

  • Matt. 25:31.

    Matt. 25:31 And when the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, then He will sit upon the throne of His glory.

  • 2 Sam. 14:17; Matt. 24:36.

    2 Sam. 14:17 And Your maidservant said, ‘Now the word of my lord the king will be comforting, for like the angel of God, so [is] my lord the king in discerning good and evil. And may YHWH your God be with you.’”

    Matt. 24:36 But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of the heavens, nor the Son, except the Father only.

  • 2 Thess. 1:7.

    2 Thess. 1:7 and to you⁺ being oppressed, relief with us at the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven with the angels of His power

  • Ps. 91:11–12; Ps. 103:20–21.

    Ps. 91:11–12 11 For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. 12 Upon the hands they shall lift you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.

    Ps. 103:20–21 20 Bless YHWH, His angels, mighty of strength, doing His word, to listen to the voice of His word. 21 Bless YHWH, all His hosts, His ministering ones doing His pleasure.

  • 2 Peter 2:4.

    2 Peter 2:4 For if God did not spare the angels having sinned, but having cast [them] down to Tartarus in chains of gloomy darkness, He delivered [them], being kept for judgment;

Parallel passages (6+)Westminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 33: Of the Last Judgment4 shared proof textsHeidelberg Catechism · Question 1242 shared proof texts · shared topicWestminster Shorter Catechism · Question 1032 shared proof texts · shared topicHeidelberg Catechism · Question 522 shared proof textsSecond Helvetic Confession · Chapter 7: Of the Creation of All Things: Of Angels, the Devil, and Man1 shared proof text · 2 shared topicsBelgic Confession · Article 10: The Deity of Christ1 shared proof text · shared topic

Question 19

Q. What is God's providence towards the angels?

A. God by his providence permitted some of the angels, willfully and irrecoverably, to fall into sin and damnation, limiting and ordering that, and all their sins, to his own glory; and established the rest in holiness and happiness; employing them all, at his pleasure, in the administrations of his power, mercy, and justice.

Scripture proofs
  • Jude 6. (See 2 Peter 2:4; Heb. 2:16; John 8:44.)

    2 Peter 2:4 For if God did not spare the angels having sinned, but having cast [them] down to Tartarus in chains of gloomy darkness, He delivered [them], being kept for judgment;

    Heb. 2:16 For surely [it is] not the angels He lays hold of, but He lays hold of the seed of Abraham.

    John 8:44 You⁺ are of [your] father the devil, and you⁺ want to do the desires of your⁺ father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and he has not stood in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he may speak falsehood, he speaks from [his] own, because he is a liar and the father of it.

    Jude 6 on BibleHub ↗

  • Job 1:12; Matt. 8:31; Luke 10:17.

    Job 1:12 And YHWH said to Satan, “Behold, all that [is] unto him [is] in your hand; only against him do not stretch out your hand.” And Satan went out from the face of YHWH.

    Matt. 8:31 And the demons were imploring Him, saying, “If You cast us out, send us away into the herd of pigs.”

    Luke 10:17 And the seventy-two returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.”

  • 1 Tim. 5:21; Mark 8:38; Heb. 12:22.

    1 Tim. 5:21 I earnestly testify before God and Christ Jesus and the chosen angels that you should keep these things without prejudice, doing nothing according to partiality.

    Mark 8:38 For whoever may be ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man also will be ashamed of him when He shall come in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.”

    Heb. 12:22 But you⁺ have come to Mount Zion, and to the city of the living God, to the heavenly Jerusalem, and to myriads of angels,

  • Ps. 103:20; Ps. 104:4.

    Ps. 103:20 Bless YHWH, His angels, mighty of strength, doing His word, to listen to the voice of His word.

    Ps. 104:4 making the winds His messengers, His servants flaming fire.

  • Heb. 1:14. (See 2 Kings 19:35.)

    Heb. 1:14 Are they not all ministering spirits being sent forth for service for the sake of those being about to inherit salvation?

    2 Kings 19:35 And it came to pass on that night that the angel of YHWH went out, and he struck in the camp of Assyria a hundred eighty-five thousand; and they rose early in the morning, and behold, all [were] dead corpses!

Parallel passages (6+)Second Helvetic Confession · Chapter 7: Of the Creation of All Things: Of Angels, the Devil, and Man3 shared proof texts · shared topicWestminster Shorter Catechism · Question 1032 shared proof texts · shared topicWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 8: Of Christ the Mediator2 shared proof textsWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 33: Of the Last Judgment1 shared proof text · 2 shared topicsSecond Helvetic Confession · Chapter 8: Of Man's Fall, Sin, and the Cause of Sin1 shared proof text · 2 shared topicsWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 3: Of God's Eternal Decree1 shared proof text · 2 shared topics

Question 56

Q. How is Christ to be exalted in his coming again to judge the world?

A. Christ is to be exalted in his coming again to judge the world, in that he, who was unjustly judged and condemned by wicked men, shall come again at the last day in great power, and in the full manifestation of his own glory, and of his Father's, with all his holy angels, with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God, to judge the world in righteousness.

Scripture proofs
  • Acts 3:14–15.

    Acts 3:14–15 14 But you⁺ denied the Holy and Righteous One and requested a man, a murderer, to be granted to you⁺. 15 And you⁺ killed the Author of life, whom God raised out from the dead, of which we are witnesses.

  • Matt. 24:30; 2 Thess. 1:9–10.

    Matt. 24:30 And then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn. And they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory.

    2 Thess. 1:9–10 9 who will pay the penalty of eternal destruction away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power, 10 when He shall come to be glorified in His saints and to be marveled at among all those having believed—because our testimony to you⁺ was believed—in that day.

  • Luke 9:26; Matt. 25:31.

    Luke 9:26 For whoever may be ashamed of Me and My words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when He shall come in His glory and [that] of the Father and of the holy angels.

    Matt. 25:31 And when the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, then He will sit upon the throne of His glory.

  • 1 Thess. 4:16.

    1 Thess. 4:16 because the Lord Himself with a loud command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God will descend from heaven, and the dead in Christ will rise first.

  • Acts 17:31; 2 Thess. 1:6–8.

    Acts 17:31 because He set a day in which He is about to judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He appointed, having provided a guarantee to all, having raised Him out from the dead.”

    2 Thess. 1:6–8 6 For indeed [it is] righteous with God to repay those oppressing you⁺ with tribulation, 7 and to you⁺ being oppressed, relief with us at the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven with the angels of His power 8 in a fire of flame, giving vengeance on those not knowing God and on those not obeying the gospel of our Lord Jesus,

Parallel passages (6+)Westminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 33: Of the Last Judgment7 shared proof texts · shared topicHeidelberg Catechism · Question 526 shared proof texts · shared topicLondon Baptist Confession (1689) · Chapter 32: Of the Last Judgment6 shared proof texts · shared topicBelgic Confession · Article 37: The Last Judgment1 shared proof text · 2 shared topicsWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 3: Of God's Eternal Decree1 shared proof text · shared topicWestminster Shorter Catechism · Question 281 shared proof text · shared topic

Question 88

Q. What shall immediately follow after the resurrection?

A. Immediately after the resurrection shall follow the general and final judgment of angels and men; the day and hour whereof no man knoweth, that all may watch and pray, and be ever ready for the coming of the Lord.

Scripture proofs
  • Eccl. 12:14; 2 Peter 2:4, 6–7, 14–15; Matt. 25:46; 2 Cor. 5:10; Rom. 14:10, 12.

    Eccl. 12:14 For God will bring every work into judgment, with every hidden thing, whether good or evil.

    2 Peter 2:4, 6–7, 14–15 4 For if God did not spare the angels having sinned, but having cast [them] down to Tartarus in chains of gloomy darkness, He delivered [them], being kept for judgment; 6 and He condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to destruction, having reduced [them] to ashes, having set an example of what is coming on the ungodly; 7 and He delivered righteous Lot, being distressed by the conduct in sensuality of the lawless 14 having eyes full of adultery, and unceasing from sin; enticing unstable souls; having a heart having been trained in covetousness—children of a curse! 15 Having forsaken the straight way, they went astray, having followed after the way of Balaam [son] of Beor, who loved the wage of unrighteousness.

    Matt. 25:46 And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

    2 Cor. 5:10 For it is necessary for us all to appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each may receive back the things [done] through the body according to what he did, whether good or evil.

    Rom. 14:10, 12 10 But why do you judge your brother? Or why also do you despise your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. 12 So then, each of us will give account concerning himself to God.

  • Matt. 24:36, 42, 44; Mark 13:35–37.

    Matt. 24:36, 42, 44 36 But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of the heavens, nor the Son, except the Father only. 42 Therefore watch, because you⁺ do not know on what day your⁺ Lord comes. 44 Because of this also, you⁺ be ready, because in the hour that you⁺ do not think, the Son of Man comes.

    Mark 13:35–37 35 Therefore watch, for you⁺ do not know when the master of the house comes—either at evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or morning— 36 lest, having come suddenly, he should find you⁺ sleeping. 37 And what I say to you⁺, I say to all: Watch!”

Parallel passages (6+)Westminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 33: Of the Last Judgment12 shared proof texts · shared topicLondon Baptist Confession (1689) · Chapter 32: Of the Last Judgment8 shared proof texts · shared topicWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 8: Of Christ the Mediator2 shared proof textsWestminster Shorter Catechism · Question 381 shared proof text · 2 shared topicsHeidelberg Catechism · Question 521 shared proof text · shared topicHeidelberg Catechism · Question 111 shared proof text

Question 89

Q. What shall be done to the wicked at the day of judgment?

A. At the day of judgment, the wicked shall be set on Christ's left hand, and, upon clear evidence, and full conviction of their own consciences, shall have the fearful but just sentence of condemnation pronounced against them; and thereupon shall be cast out from the favorable presence of God, and the glorious fellowship with Christ, his saints, and all his holy angels, into hell, to be punished with unspeakable torments, both of body and soul, with the devil and his angels forever.

Scripture proofs
  • Matt. 25:33.

    Matt. 25:33 And indeed, He will set the sheep on His right hand and the goats on [His] left.

  • Rom. 2:15–16.

    Rom. 2:15–16 15 who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also testifying, and the thoughts between one another accusing or also defending [them] 16 on the day when God judges the secrets of men according to my gospel through Christ Jesus.

  • Matt. 25:41–43.

    Matt. 25:41–43 41 Then also He will say to those on [His] left, ‘Depart from Me, the cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I hungered, and you⁺ did not give to Me to eat; and I thirsted, and you⁺ did not give Me to drink; 43 I was a stranger, and you⁺ did not take Me in; naked, and you⁺ did not clothe Me; ailing and in prison, and you⁺ did not visit Me.’

  • Luke 16:26; 2 Thess. 1:8–9.

    Luke 16:26 And besides all these things, a great chasm has been fixed between us and you⁺, so that those desiring to go over from here to you⁺ are not able, nor may they cross over from there to us.’

    2 Thess. 1:8–9 8 in a fire of flame, giving vengeance on those not knowing God and on those not obeying the gospel of our Lord Jesus, 9 who will pay the penalty of eternal destruction away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power,

Parallel passages (6+)Westminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 33: Of the Last Judgment7 shared proof texts · 2 shared topicsHeidelberg Catechism · Question 526 shared proof texts · 2 shared topicsWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 6: Of the Fall of Man, of Sin, and of the Punishment Thereof3 shared proof textsHeidelberg Catechism · Question 113 shared proof textsWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 16: Of Good Works3 shared proof textsLondon Baptist Confession (1689) · Chapter 16: Of Good Works3 shared proof texts

Question 105

Q. What are the sins forbidden in the first commandment?

A. The sins forbidden in the first commandment are, atheism, in denying or not having a God; idolatry, in having or worshiping more gods than one, or any with or instead of the true God; the not having and avouching him for God, and our God; the omission or neglect of anything due to him, required in this commandment; ignorance, forgetfulness, misapprehensions, false opinions, unworthy and wicked thoughts of him; bold and curious searching into his secrets; all profaneness, hatred of God; self-love, self-seeking, and all other inordinate and immoderate setting of our mind, will, or affections upon other things, and taking them off from him in whole or in part; vain credulity, unbelief, heresy, misbelief, distrust, despair, incorrigibleness, and insensibleness under judgments, hardness of heart, pride, presumption, carnal security, tempting of God; using unlawful means, and trusting in lawful means; carnal delights and joys; corrupt, blind, and indiscreet zeal; lukewarmness, and deadness in the things of God; estranging ourselves, and apostatizing from God; praying, or giving any religious worship, to saints, angels, or any other creatures; all compacts and consulting with the devil, and hearkening to his suggestions; making men the lords of our faith and conscience; slighting and despising God and his commands; resisting and grieving of his Spirit, discontent and impatience at his dispensations, charging him foolishly for the evils he inflicts on us; and ascribing the praise of any good we either are, have, or can do, to fortune, idols, ourselves, or any other creature.

Scripture proofs
  • Ps. 14:1; Eph. 2:12.

    Ps. 14:1 For the one directing. Of David. The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt; they have done abominable deeds; there is no one doing good.

    Eph. 2:12 that at that time you⁺ were apart from Christ, having been alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, not having hope and without God in the world.

  • Jer. 2:27–28; 1 Thess. 1:9.

    Jer. 2:27–28 27 saying to a tree, ‘You [are] my father,’ and to a stone, ‘You gave me birth.’ For they have turned the nape to Me, and not the faces; but in the time of their trouble they will say, ‘Arise, and save us.’ 28 “And where [are] your gods that you made for yourselves? Let them stand up, if they can save you in the time of your trouble! For [as] the number of your cities, are your gods, O Judah.

    1 Thess. 1:9 For they themselves report concerning us what kind of entrance we had to you⁺, and how you⁺ turned to God from idols, to serve the living and true God,

  • Ps. 81:10–11. (See Rom. 1:21.)

    Ps. 81:10–11 10 I [am] YHWH your God, who brought you out from the land of Egypt; open wide your mouth, and I will fill it. 11 My people would not listen to My voice, and Israel has not consented to Me.

    Rom. 1:21 For having known God, not as God did they glorify [Him], or give thanks, but they became futile in their thoughts and their foolish heart was darkened.

  • Isa. 43:22–24.

    Isa. 43:22–24 22 And not Me you have called, O Jacob, for you have grown weary of Me, O Israel. 23 You have not brought to Me sheep as your burnt offerings, and with your sacrifices you have not honored Me; I have not made you serve with grain offerings, and I have not wearied you with incense. 24 You have not bought Me sweet cane with silver, and [with] the fat of your sacrifices you have not satisfied Me; but you have made Me serve with your sins [and] have wearied Me with your iniquities.

  • Jer. 4:22; Hos. 4:1, 6.

    Jer. 4:22 “For My people [are] foolish—they have not known Me! They [are] foolish children, and they have no understanding! They [are] wise to do evil, and to do good they do not know.

    Hos. 4:1, 6 1 Hear the word of YHWH, O sons of Israel, for a case [is] unto YHWH against those dwelling in the land: “For there is no truth, and there is no loving devotion, and there is no knowledge of God in the land. 6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge, because you have rejected knowledge, and I will reject you from being priest unto Me; and you have forgotten the law of your God; I will forget your children also.

  • Jer. 2:32.

    Jer. 2:32 Can a virgin forget her jewelry, [or] a bride her sashes? And My people have forgotten Me for days without number.

  • Acts 17:23, 29.

    Acts 17:23, 29 23 For passing through and examining your⁺ objects of worship, I even found an altar on which had been inscribed: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. Therefore whom you⁺ worship without knowing, this I proclaim to you⁺. 29 Therefore, being offspring of God, we ought not to consider the Divine Being to be like gold or silver or stone, a graven thing of man’s craft and imagination.

  • Isa. 40:18.

    Isa. 40:18 And to whom would you⁺ liken God? And what likeness will you⁺ arrange for Him?

  • Ps. 50:21.

    Ps. 50:21 These [things] you have done, and I kept silent; you thought I was just like you. I will rebuke you and set in array before your eyes.

  • Deut. 29:29.

    Deut. 29:29 The things hidden are of YHWH our God, and the things revealed [are] to us and to our sons even to forever, that [we] may do all the words of this law.

  • Titus 1:16; Heb. 12:16.

    Titus 1:16 They profess to know God, but in works they deny [Him], being abominable and disobedient and unfit for any good work.

    Heb. 12:16 lest [there be] any sexually immoral person or profane person, as Esau, who for one meal sold his birthright.

  • Rom. 1:30.

    Rom. 1:30 slanderers, hateful to God, insolent, arrogant, boasters; inventors of evil, disobedient to parents;

  • 2 Tim. 3:2.

    2 Tim. 3:2 For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boasters, proud, verbally abusive, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy,

  • Phil. 2:21.

    Phil. 2:21 For those all seek the things of themselves, not the things of Jesus Christ.

  • 1 John 2:15–16; Col. 3:2, 5. (See 1 Sam. 2:29.)

    1 John 2:15–16 15 Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone should love the world, the love of the Father is not in him, 16 because all that [is] in the world, the desire of the flesh and the desire of the eyes and the vaunting of life, is not from the Father but is from the world.

    Col. 3:2, 5 2 Mind the things above, not the things on the earth. 5 Put to death, therefore, the members that [are] upon the earth: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry,

    1 Sam. 2:29 Why do you⁺ kick at My sacrifice and at My offering, which I have commanded [in My] dwelling place, and honor your sons more than Me, to make yourselves fat with the best of all the offerings of Israel My people?’

  • 1 John 4:1.

    1 John 4:1 Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.

  • Heb. 3:12.

    Heb. 3:12 See to it, brothers, lest ever there will be in any of you⁺ an evil heart of unbelief in the falling away from the living God.

  • Gal. 5:20; Titus 3:10.

    Gal. 5:20 idolatry, sorcery, hostilities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of rage, rivalries, dissensions, factions,

    Titus 3:10 Reject a divisive man after one and a second admonition,

  • Acts 26:9.

    Acts 26:9 Therefore I indeed in myself thought [it] to be necessary to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth,

  • Ps. 78:22.

    Ps. 78:22 because they did not have faith in God, and they did not trust in His salvation.

  • Gen. 4:13.

    Gen. 4:13 And Cain said to YHWH, “Greater [is] my punishment than I can bear!

  • Jer. 5:3.

    Jer. 5:3 O YHWH, [are] not Your eyes on the truth? You have struck them, and they have not grieved; You have finished them off; they have refused to receive discipline. They have made their faces harder than rock; they have refused to turn back.

  • Isa. 42:25.

    Isa. 42:25 And He poured out on him the heat of His nose and the fierceness of battle; and it has set him on fire all around, and he did not know [it], and it burned him, and he did not set [it] upon [his] heart.

  • Rom. 2:5.

    Rom. 2:5 But according to your hardness and unrepentant heart, you are storing up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God,

  • Jer. 13:15.

    Jer. 13:15 Listen and give ear! Do not be proud, for YHWH has spoken.

  • Ps. 19:13.

    Ps. 19:13 Also, hold back Your servant from proud [things]; may they not rule over me. Then I shall be complete, and cleansed of great transgression.

  • Zeph. 1:12.

    Zeph. 1:12 And it will come to pass, at that time [that] I will search Jerusalem with lamps, and I will visit punishment upon the men settled in their dregs, those saying in their heart, ‘YHWH does no good, and He will not bring evil.’

  • Matt. 4:7.

    Matt. 4:7 Jesus said to him, “Again it has been written: ‘You shall not test the Lord your God.’”

  • Rom. 3:8.

    Rom. 3:8 And [is it] not, as we are slandered and as some affirm us to say, “Let us do evil so that the good may come”? Their judgment is just.

  • Jer. 17:5.

    Jer. 17:5 Thus says YHWH: “Cursed is the man who trusts in mankind and makes flesh his arm and turns away his heart from YHWH.

  • 2 Tim. 3:4.

    2 Tim. 3:4 betrayers, reckless, having been puffed up, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God,

  • Gal. 4:17; Rom. 10:2. (See John 16:2; Luke 9:54–55.)

    Gal. 4:17 They are zealous for you⁺, not nobly, but they want to exclude you⁺ [from us], so that you⁺ may be zealous for them.

    Rom. 10:2 For I testify about them that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.

    John 16:2 They will put you⁺ out of the synagogues; but an hour is coming that everyone having killed you⁺ will think he is offering a service to God.

    Luke 9:54–55 54 And having seen [it], the disciples James and John said, “Lord, do You want [that] we should call fire to come down from heaven and to consume them?” 55 But having turned, He rebuked them,

  • Rev. 3:16.

    Rev. 3:16 So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I am about to vomit you out of My mouth.

  • Rev. 3:1.

    Rev. 3:1 “And to the angel of the church in Sardis write: These things says the One having the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars. I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, and yet you are dead.

  • Ezek. 14:5; Isa. 1:4–5.

    Ezek. 14:5 so as to capture the house of Israel by their heart, [in] that they are estranged from Me by all their idols.’

    Isa. 1:4–5 4 Alas, O sinning nation, a people heavy with iniquity, a seed doing evil, sons bringing corruption! They have forsaken YHWH, they have despised the Holy One of Israel, they have become estranged backward. 5 For what should you⁺ be struck still? Should you⁺ continue in rebellion? The whole head is sick, and the whole heart [is] faint.

  • Hos. 4:12; Acts 10:25–26; Rev. 19:10; Matt. 4:10; Col. 2:18; Rom. 1:25.

    Hos. 4:12 My people consult with a piece of wood, and their staff declares [it] to them; for the spirit of prostitution has led them astray, and they have prostituted themselves from under their God.

    Acts 10:25–26 25 And as Peter was entering, Cornelius, having met him, having fallen at [his] feet, worshiped [him]. 26 But Peter lifted him up, saying, “Rise up, I myself am also a man.”

    Rev. 19:10 And I fell before his feet to worship him. And he says to me, “See, no! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers, those having the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”

    Matt. 4:10 Then Jesus says to him, “Go away, Satan! For it has been written: ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve.’”

    Col. 2:18 Let no one disqualify you⁺, delighting in humility and worship of the angels, going into what he has seen, vainly being puffed up by the mind of his flesh,

    Rom. 1:25 who changed the truth of God into falsehood, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the One having created, who is blessed to the ages! Amen.

  • Lev. 20:6. (See 1 Sam. 28:7, 11; 1 Chron. 10:13–14.)

    Lev. 20:6 And the person who turns to the mediums and to the spiritists to prostitute himself with them, I will set My face against that person and cut him off from among his people.

    1 Sam. 28:7, 11 7 And Saul said to his servants, “Find me a woman who is a medium, that I may go to her and inquire of her.” And his servants said to him, “Behold, a woman of a mistress a familiar spirit [is] at Endor.” 11 And the woman said, “Whom shall I bring up for you?” And he said, “Bring up Samuel for me.”

    1 Chron. 10:13–14 13 And Saul died for his unfaithfulness that he trespassed against YHWH, against the word of YHWH, because he did not keep [it], and also because he consulted a medium to inquire. 14 [He] inquired not of YHWH. And He killed him and turned over the kingdom to David son of Jesse.

  • Acts 5:3.

    Acts 5:3 But Peter said, “Ananias, why did Satan fill your heart [for] you to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back from the proceeds of the land?

  • 2 Cor. 1:24. (See Matt. 23:9.)

    2 Cor. 1:24 Not that we lord it over your⁺ faith, but we are fellow workers with you⁺ of joy; for in the faith you⁺ stand firm.

    Matt. 23:9 And you⁺ shall call no one your⁺ father on the earth, for One is your⁺ Father who [is] in heaven.

  • Deut. 32:15; Prov. 13:13. (See 2 Sam. 12:9.)

    Deut. 32:15 And Jeshurun grew fat and kicked—you grew fat, you grew thick, you gorged—and he forsook God [who] made him and scorned the Rock of his salvation.

    Prov. 13:13 The one despising the word is destroyed for it, and the one fearing the command, he will be rewarded.

    2 Sam. 12:9 Why have you despised the commandment of YHWH to do evil in His sight? You have struck Uriah the Hittite with the sword, and his wife you have taken [to be] your wife, and him have killed with the sword of the sons of Ammon.

  • Acts 7:51; Eph. 4:30.

    Acts 7:51 You⁺ stiff-necked and uncircumcised in hearts and ears! You⁺ always resist the Holy Spirit! As [did] your⁺ fathers, also you⁺ [do].

    Eph. 4:30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, in whom you⁺ were sealed for the day of redemption.

  • Job 1:22; Ps. 73:2–3 (see vv. 13–15, 22).

    Job 1:22 In all this Job did not sin, and he did not ascribe foolishness to God.

    Ps. 73:2–3 2 And [as for] me, at a little stretching out of my feet, my steps had nearly poured out. 3 For I was envious of those boasting [when] I saw the prosperity of the wicked.

  • 1 Sam. 6:7–9; Luke 12:19.

    1 Sam. 6:7–9 7 And now, take and make one new cart, and two suckling cows on which a yoke has not gone up, and hitch the cows to the cart, and return their calves from them to the house. 8 And take the ark of YHWH, and set it on the cart. And the articles of gold that you⁺ are returning to Him [as] a guilt offering, put in the chest by its side, and send it away that it may go. 9 And watch: If it goes up the way of its own border toward Beth-shemesh, He has done to us this great disaster. But if not, then we will know that [it is] not His hand [that] struck us; it happened to us by chance.”

    Luke 12:19 And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have many good things laid up for many years; take your rest, eat, drink, be merry.”’

  • Dan. 5:23.

    Dan. 5:23 and against the Lord of heaven you have lifted yourself up. And the vessels of His house they have brought before you, and you, and your nobles, your wives, and your concubines, have been drinking wine from them. And to the gods of silver and gold, bronze and iron, wood and stone, which do not see, and do not hear, and do not have knowledge, you have given praise. And to the God in whose hand [is] your breath, and all your ways [are] to Him, you have not shown honor!

  • Deut. 8:17. (See Dan. 4:30.)

    Deut. 8:17 and you say in your heart, “My power and the might of my hand have gained me this wealth.”

    Dan. 4:30 The king answered and said, “Is not this the great Babylon, which I myself have built as a house for the kingdom by the might of my power and for the honor of my majesty?”

  • Hab. 1:16.

    Hab. 1:16 Upon thus he sacrifices to his net, and burns incense to his dragnet, because by them his portion [is] rich and his food fat.

Parallel passages (6+)Westminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 21: Of Religious Worship and the Sabbath Day7 shared proof texts · shared topicWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 5: Of Providence6 shared proof texts · shared topicWestminster Shorter Catechism · Question 475 shared proof texts · 2 shared topicsWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 16: Of Good Works5 shared proof texts · shared topicLondon Baptist Confession (1689) · Chapter 5: Of Divine Providence4 shared proof texts · shared topicWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 1: Of the Holy Scripture4 shared proof texts · shared topic

Question 192

Q. What do we pray for in the third petition?

A. In the third petition, (which is, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven,) acknowledging, that by nature we and all men are not only utterly unable and unwilling to know and do the will of God, but prone to rebel against his Word, to repine and murmur against his providence, and wholly inclined to do the will of the flesh, and of the devil: we pray, that God would by his Spirit take away from ourselves and others all blindness, weakness, indisposedness, and perverseness of heart; and by his grace make us able and willing to know, do, and submit to his will in all things, with the like humility, cheerfulness, faithfulness, diligence, zeal, sincerity, and constancy, as the angels do in heaven.

Scripture proofs
  • Matt. 6:10. (Cf. Luke 11:2.)

    Matt. 6:10 Your kingdom come. Your will be done, as in heaven, also upon earth.

    Luke 11:2 And He said to them, “When you⁺ pray, say: ‘Father, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come.

  • Rom. 7:18; Job 21:14; 1 Cor. 2:14.

    Rom. 7:18 For I know that there does not dwell in me—that is, in my flesh—good. For to want is present with me, but not to carry out the good.

    Job 21:14 And they said to God, ‘Turn away from us! For we do not delight to know Your ways.

    1 Cor. 2:14 But the natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he is not able to know [them], because they are spiritually discerned.

  • Rom. 8:7.

    Rom. 8:7 because the mind of the flesh [is] hostility toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for [it is] not even able.

  • Ex. 17:7; Num. 14:2.

    Ex. 17:7 And he called the name of the place Massah and Meribah, because of the contention of the sons of Israel, and because of their testing of YHWH, saying, “Is YHWH among us, or not?”

    Num. 14:2 And all the sons of Israel complained against Moses and Aaron, and the whole congregation said to them, “If only we had died in the land of Egypt, or if only we had died in this wilderness!

  • Eph. 2:2.

    Eph. 2:2 in which once you⁺ walked according to the age of this world, according to the ruler of the authority of the air, the spirit now working in the sons of disobedience,

  • Eph. 1:17–18.

    Eph. 1:17–18 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you⁺ a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, 18 the eyes your⁺ of heart being enlightened for you⁺ to know what is the hope of His calling, what [are] the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,

  • Eph. 3:16.

    Eph. 3:16 that He might give to you⁺ according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man,

  • Matt. 26:40–41.

    Matt. 26:40–41 40 And He comes to the disciples and finds them sleeping. And He says to Peter, “So, were you⁺ not able to watch with Me one hour? 41 Watch and pray so that you⁺ might not enter into temptation. the spirit indeed [is] willing, but the flesh weak.”

  • Jer. 31:18–19.

    Jer. 31:18–19 18 I have surely heard Ephraim bemoaning himself: ‘You disciplined me, and I was disciplined as an untrained heifer; turn me back and I will return, for You [are] YHWH my God. 19 For after my turning back, I repented; and after I was instructed, I struck myself on the thigh; I was ashamed and also humiliated, because I bore the disgrace of my youth.’

  • Ps. 19:14; Acts 21:14. (See Ps. 119; 1 Thess. 5:23; Heb. 13:20–21.)

    Ps. 19:14 The words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart, let them be for favor before Your face, O YHWH, my Rock and my Redeemer.

    Acts 21:14 And he not being persuaded, we were silent, having said, “The will of the Lord be done.”

    1 Thess. 5:23 Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you⁺ completely, and may your⁺ entire spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

    Heb. 13:20–21 20 Now [may] the God of peace, the One having brought up out from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep, our Lord Jesus, by the blood of the eternal covenant, 21 equip you⁺ in everything good in order to do His will, doing in us that which [is] well pleasing before Him, through Jesus Christ, to whom [be] the glory to the ages of the ages. Amen.

    Psalm 119 on BibleHub ↗

  • Mic. 6:8.

    Mic. 6:8 He has shown to you, O man, what [is] good. And what does YHWH seek from you, but to do justice and to love kindness, and to be humble to walk with your God?

  • Ps. 100:2; Job 1:21; 2 Sam. 15:25–26.

    Ps. 100:2 Serve YHWH with gladness! Come before His face with a shout of joy!

    Job 1:21 and he said, “Naked I came forth from the womb of my mother, and naked I shall return there. YHWH gave, and YHWH has taken away. Let the name of YHWH be blessed.”

    2 Sam. 15:25–26 25 And the king said to Zadok, “Carry back the ark of God into the city. If I find favor in the eyes of YHWH, He will bring me back and show me it and His dwelling place. 26 But if thus He says, ‘I have not delighted in you,’ behold, [it is] I. Let Him do to me as [is] good in His eyes.”

  • Isa. 38:3.

    Isa. 38:3 and he said, “I pray you, O YHWH, remember please how I have walked before Your face in truth and with a complete heart, and I have done [what is] good in your eyes.” And Hezekiah wept [with] great weeping.

  • Ps. 119:4–5.

    Ps. 119:4–5 4 You have commanded Your precepts, to be kept diligently. 5 Oh, that my ways were set firm to keep Your statutes!

  • Ps. 69:9; John 2:17; Rom. 12:11.

    Ps. 69:9 For zeal for Your house has consumed me, and the insults of those insulting You have fallen on me.

    John 2:17 His disciples remembered that it is written: “The zeal of Your house will consume Me.”

    Rom. 12:11 not slothful in diligence, being fervent in spirit, serving the Lord,

  • Josh. 24:14; Ps. 119:80; 1 Cor. 5:8. (See 2 Cor. 1:12.)

    Josh. 24:14 And now, fear YHWH and serve Him in sincerity and in truth. And put away the gods that your⁺ fathers served on the other side of the River and in Egypt, and Serve YHWH!

    Ps. 119:80 May my heart be perfect in Your statutes, so that I may not be ashamed.

    1 Cor. 5:8 so that we may keep the feast, not with old leaven, not with leaven of malice and wickedness, but with unleavened [bread] of sincerity and of truth.

    2 Cor. 1:12 For our boasting is this: The testimony of our conscience, that in the simplicity and sincerity of God, and not in fleshly wisdom but in the grace of God, we conducted ourselves in the world and more abundantly toward you⁺.

  • Ps. 119:112.

    Ps. 119:112 I have inclined my heart to perform Your statutes forever, [to] the end!

  • Isa. 6:2–3; Ps. 103:20–21; Matt. 18:10.

    Isa. 6:2–3 2 Seraphim stood above Him, [with] six wings for each—six wings—with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. 3 And this one cried to this one and said: “Holy, holy, holy [is] YHWH of Hosts; the fullness of all the earth [is] His glory!”

    Ps. 103:20–21 20 Bless YHWH, His angels, mighty of strength, doing His word, to listen to the voice of His word. 21 Bless YHWH, all His hosts, His ministering ones doing His pleasure.

    Matt. 18:10 See that you⁺ do not despise one of these little ones. For I say to you⁺ that their angels in the heavens always see the face of My Father who [is] in the heavens.

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Chapter X: Resurrection

We undoubtedly believe that in as much as it was impossible that the sorrows of death should retain in bondage the author of life (Acts 2–3), that our Lord Jesus, crucified, died, and buried (Rom. 6), who descended into hell, did rise again for our justification, and destroying him who was author of death brought life again unto us that were subject to death and to the bondage of the same. We know that His resurrection was confirmed by the testimony of His very enemies (Matt. 28), by the resurrection of the dead whose sepulchers did open and they did arise and appeared to many within the city of Jerusalem (Matt. 27). It was also confirmed by the testimony of angels and by the senses and judgments of His apostles and of others (John 20–21), who had conversation and did eat and drink with Him after His resurrection.

Scripture proofs
Parallel passages (6+)Westminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 3: Of God's Eternal Decree3 shared topicsLondon Baptist Confession (1689) · Chapter 3: Of God's Eternal Decree3 shared topicsHeidelberg Catechism · Question 233 shared topicsWestminster Larger Catechism · Question 523 shared topicsSecond Helvetic Confession · Chapter 11: Of Jesus Christ, Being True God and Man, and the Only Savior of the World3 shared topicsEcumenical Creeds · Apostles' Creed3 shared topics

Chapter 7: Of the Creation of All Things: Of Angels, the Devil, and Man

This good and almighty God created all things, both visible and invisible, by His eternal Word, and preserves the same also by His eternal Spirit: as David witnesses, saying, "By the word of the Lord were the heavens made, and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth" (Ps. 33:6). And as the Scripture says: "All things that the Lord created were very good" (Gen. 1:31) and made for the use and profit of man. Now we say that all those things proceed from one beginning: and, therefore, we detest the Manichees and Marcionites, who did wickedly imagine two substances and natures, the one of good, the other of evil; and also two beginnings, and two gods, one contrary to the other, a good and an evil.

Among all the creatures, the angels and men are most excellent. Touching angels, the Holy Scripture says, "Who maketh His angels spirits, and His ministers a flame of fire" (Ps. 104:4). Also, "Are they not ministering spirits sent forth to minister for their sakes, which shall be the heirs of salvation?" (Heb. 1:14). And the Lord Jesus Himself testifies of the devil, saying, "He hath been a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own; for he is a liar, and the father thereof" (John 8:44). We teach, therefore, that some angels persisted in obedience and were appointed unto the faithful service of God and men; and that others fell of their own accord and ran headlong into destruction, and so became enemies to all good, and to all the faithful.

Now, touching man, the Spirit says that in the beginning he was "created good according to the image and likeness of God" (Gen. 1:27); that God placed him in Paradise, and made all things subject unto him; which David most nobly sets forth in the eighth Psalm. Moreover God gave unto him a wife and blessed them. We say also that man consists of two, and those divers substances in one person; of a soul immortal (as that which being separated from his body, neither sleeps nor dies) and a body mortal, which notwithstanding at the last judgment shall be raised again from the dead, that from henceforth the whole man may continue for ever, in life or in death.

We condemn all those who mock, or by subtle disputations call into doubt, the immortality of the soul, or say that the soul sleeps, or that it is a part of God. In short, we condemn all opinions of all men whatsoever, who think otherwise of the creation of angels, devils, and men than is delivered unto us by the Scriptures in the apostolic church of Christ.

Scripture proofs
  • Ps. 33:6

    Ps. 33:6 By the word of YHWH the heavens were made, and by the breath of His mouth all their host.

  • Gen. 1:31

    Gen. 1:31 And God saw everything that He had made, and behold, [it was] very good! And there was evening and there was morning—the sixth day.

  • Ps. 104:4

    Ps. 104:4 making the winds His messengers, His servants flaming fire.

  • Heb. 1:14

    Heb. 1:14 Are they not all ministering spirits being sent forth for service for the sake of those being about to inherit salvation?

  • John 8:44

    John 8:44 You⁺ are of [your] father the devil, and you⁺ want to do the desires of your⁺ father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and he has not stood in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he may speak falsehood, he speaks from [his] own, because he is a liar and the father of it.

  • Gen. 1:27

    Gen. 1:27 And God created the man in His image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.

Parallel passages (6+)Westminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 4: Of Creation3 shared proof texts · shared topicWestminster Larger Catechism · Question 193 shared proof texts · shared topicWestminster Shorter Catechism · Question 92 shared proof texts · shared topicHeidelberg Catechism · Question 62 shared proof texts · shared topicHeidelberg Catechism · Question 92 shared proof texts · shared topicLondon Baptist Confession (1689) · Chapter 4: Of Creation2 shared proof texts · shared topic

Chapter 3: Of God's Eternal Decree

1. God hath decreed in himself from all eternity, by the most wise and holy counsel of his own will, freely and unchangeably, all things whatsoever comes to pass; yet so as thereby is God neither the author of sin, nor hath fellowship with any therein; nor is violence offered to the will of the creature, nor yet is the liberty, or contingency of second causes taken away, but rather established; in which appears his wisdom in disposing all things, and power and faithfulness in accomplishing his decree.

2. Although God knoweth whatsoever may, or can come to pass upon all supposed conditions; yet hath he not decreed anything, because he foresaw it as future, or as that which would come to pass upon such conditions.

3. By the decree of God, for the manifestation of his glory, some men and angels are predestinated, or foreordained to eternal life, through Jesus Christ, to the praise of his glorious grace; others being left to act in their sin to their just condemnation, to the praise of his glorious justice.

4. These angels and men thus predestinated, and foreordained, are particularly, and unchangeably designed, and their number so certain, and definite, that it cannot be either increased, or diminished.

5. Those of mankind that are predestinated to life, God, before the foundation of the world was laid, according to his eternal and immutable purpose, and the secret counsel and good pleasure of his will, hath chosen in Christ unto everlasting glory, out of his mere free grace and love; without any other thing in the creature as a condition or cause moving him thereunto.

6. As God hath appointed the elect unto glory, so he hath, by the eternal and most free purpose of his will, foreordained all the means thereunto, wherefore they who are elected, being fallen in Adam, are redeemed by Christ, are effectually called unto faith in Christ, by his Spirit working in due season, are justified, adopted, sanctified, and kept by his power through faith unto salvation; neither are any other redeemed by Christ, or effectually called, justified, adopted, sanctified, and saved, but the elect only.

7. The doctrine of this high mystery of predestination, is to be handled with special prudence and care; that men attending the will of God revealed in his Word, and yielding obedience thereunto, may from the certainty of their effectual vocation, be assured of their eternal election; so shall this doctrine afford matter of praise, reverence, and admiration of God, and of humility, diligence, and abundant consolation, to all that sincerely obey the gospel.

Scripture proofs
  • Isa. 46:10; Eph. 1:11; Heb. 6:17; Rom. 9:15, 18.

    Isa. 46:10 declaring from the beginning the end, and from of old that which has not been done, saying, ‘My counsel will stand, and I will do all My delight;’

    Eph. 1:11 in Him, in whom also we obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of the One working all things according to the counsel of His will

    Heb. 6:17 in which God, willing to show more abundantly the unchangeableness of His purpose to the heirs of the promise, guaranteed [it] by an oath,

    Rom. 9:15, 18 15 For He says to Moses: “I will have mercy on whom I may have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I may have compassion.” 18 So then, He has mercy on whom He wants, and He hardens whom He wants.

  • James 1:13; 1 John 1:5.

    James 1:13 Let no one being tempted say, “I am being tempted from God.” For God is unable to be tempted by evils, and He Himself tempts no one.

    1 John 1:5 And this is the message that we have heard from Him and we announce to you⁺, that God is light, and in Him is no darkness—none.

  • Acts 4:27–28; John 19:11.

    Acts 4:27–28 27 For in truth, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, were gathered together in this city against Your holy servant Jesus, whom You anointed, 28 to do whatever Your hand and Your purpose predetermined to happen.

    John 19:11 Jesus answered him, “You would have no authority over Me if it were not given to you from above. Because of this, the one having delivered Me up to you has greater sin.”

  • Num. 23:19; Eph. 1:3–5.

    Num. 23:19 God [is] not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and He will not do? Or has He spoken, and He will not fulfill?

    Eph. 1:3–5 3 Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the One having blessed us with every spiritual blessing in Christ in the heavenly realms, 4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world for us to be holy and blameless before Him, in love 5 having predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will,

  • Acts 15:18.

    Acts 15:18 known from the age.’

  • Rom. 9:11, 13, 16, 18.

    Rom. 9:11, 13, 16, 18 11 for they not yet having been born nor having done anything good or evil, so that the purpose of God according to election might stand— 13 As it has been written: “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.” 16 So then, [it is] not of the one willing, nor of the one running, but of God having mercy. 18 So then, He has mercy on whom He wants, and He hardens whom He wants.

  • 1 Tim. 5:21; Matt. 25:34.

    1 Tim. 5:21 I earnestly testify before God and Christ Jesus and the chosen angels that you should keep these things without prejudice, doing nothing according to partiality.

    Matt. 25:34 Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, the blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you⁺ from the foundation of the world.

  • Eph. 1:5–6.

    Eph. 1:5–6 5 having predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, 6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He graciously gave us in the Beloved One,

  • Rom. 9:22–23; Jude 4.

    Rom. 9:22–23 22 And [what] if God, desiring to display the wrath and to make known His power, bore with much patience vessels of wrath, having been fitted for destruction, 23 so that He might also make known the riches of His glory upon vessels of mercy, which He prepared beforehand for glory,

    Jude 4 on BibleHub ↗

  • 2 Tim. 2:19; John 13:18.

    2 Tim. 2:19 Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God has stood, having this seal: “The Lord knows those being His,” and, “Let everyone naming the name of the Lord depart from unrighteousness.”

    John 13:18 I speak not about all of you⁺—I know whom I chose—but so that the Scripture may be fulfilled: ‘The one eating My bread lifted up his heel against Me.’

  • Eph. 1:4, 9, 11; Rom. 8:30; 2 Tim. 1:9; 1 Thess. 5:9.

    Eph. 1:4, 9, 11 4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world for us to be holy and blameless before Him, in love 9 having made known to us the mystery of His will according to His good pleasure, which He purposed in Him 11 in Him, in whom also we obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of the One working all things according to the counsel of His will

    Rom. 8:30 And whom He predestined, these also He called; and whom He called, these also He justified; and whom He justified, these also He glorified.

    2 Tim. 1:9 the One having saved us and having called [us] with a holy calling, not according to our works but according to His own purpose and grace, having been given to us in Christ Jesus before times eternal,

    1 Thess. 5:9 because God did not set us for wrath, but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ,

  • Rom. 9:13, 16; Eph. 2:5, 12.

    Rom. 9:13, 16 13 As it has been written: “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.” 16 So then, [it is] not of the one willing, nor of the one running, but of God having mercy.

    Eph. 2:5, 12 5 even us being dead in trespasses, made [us] alive with Christ—by grace you⁺ are saved— 12 that at that time you⁺ were apart from Christ, having been alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, not having hope and without God in the world.

  • 1 Peter 1:2; 2 Thess. 2:13.

    1 Peter 1:2 according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit for obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: May grace and peace be multiplied to you⁺.

    2 Thess. 2:13 But we ought to give thanks to God always concerning you⁺, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you⁺ from the beginning unto salvation in the sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth,

  • 1 Thess. 5:9–10.

    1 Thess. 5:9–10 9 because God did not set us for wrath, but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 the One having died for us, so that whether we may watch or we may sleep, we may live together with Him.

  • Rom. 8:30; 2 Thess. 2:13.

    Rom. 8:30 And whom He predestined, these also He called; and whom He called, these also He justified; and whom He justified, these also He glorified.

    2 Thess. 2:13 But we ought to give thanks to God always concerning you⁺, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you⁺ from the beginning unto salvation in the sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth,

  • 1 Peter 1:5.

    1 Peter 1:5 who [are] being guarded in the power of God through faith for the salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

  • John 10:26; John 17:9; John 6:64.

    John 10:26 But you⁺ do not believe, because you⁺ are not of My sheep.

    John 17:9 I ask concerning them. I do not ask concerning the world, but concerning those whom You have given to Me, for they are Yours.

    John 6:64 But there are some of you⁺ who do not believe.” For Jesus had known from the beginning who are those not believing and who it is who will betray Him.

  • 1 Thess. 1:4–5; 2 Peter 1:10.

    1 Thess. 1:4–5 4 knowing, brothers beloved by God, your⁺ election, 5 because our gospel came to you⁺ not in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with much full assurance, just as you⁺ know what we were among you⁺ on account of you⁺.

    2 Peter 1:10 Therefore, brothers, be diligent, rather, to make your⁺ calling and election sure. For [in] doing these things, never at any time shall you⁺ stumble.

  • Eph. 1:6; Rom. 11:33.

    Eph. 1:6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He graciously gave us in the Beloved One,

    Rom. 11:33 O, the depth of riches, both of wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and untraceable His ways!

  • Rom. 11:5–6.

    Rom. 11:5–6 5 So then also in the present time, there has been a remnant according to the election of grace, 6 and if by grace, no longer out of works; otherwise grace no longer is grace.

  • Luke 10:20.

    Luke 10:20 But do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you⁺; but rejoice that your⁺ names have been written in the heavens.”

Parallel passages (6+)Westminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 3: Of God's Eternal Decree38 shared proof texts · 16 shared topicsWestminster Confession of Faith · Chapter 10: Of Effectual Calling10 shared proof texts · 6 shared topicsCanons of Dort · First Head: Rejection of the Errors8 shared proof texts · 11 shared topicsWestminster Larger Catechism · Question 129 shared proof texts · 4 shared topicsWestminster Larger Catechism · Question 138 shared proof texts · 6 shared topicsHeidelberg Catechism · Question 548 shared proof texts · 5 shared topics