IV. Of the Word of God

Q296. Now the proposed method of instruction requires of us, to treat of the fourth part, of the honour due to God.

We said that it consisted in this, that we acknowledge God to be the author of all good, and that we confess his goodness, justice, wisdom, and power, with praise and thanksgiving; that the fulness and glory of all blessings may abide in him.

Q297. What rule has he prescribed for this duty?

Those praises of him, which are published in the scriptures, should be received as a rule for us.

Q298. Does not the Lord's prayer contain something which applies to this duty?

Yes, when we pray that his name may be sanctified, we desire that his glory may be manifested in all his works; that his mercy may appear in pardoning sinners, or his justice in punishing them; and his faithfulness in fulfilling his promises to his people; finally, that whatever of his works we behold, it may excite us to glorify him. This is truly to ascribe to him the praise of all blessings.

Q299. What shall we conclude from those things, about which we have already treated?

That which the truth itself teaches; and the same which I proposed at first; that this is eternal life, to know the only true God, the Father, and Jesus Christ, whom he hath sent. To know him, I say, that we may render to him due honour and worship; not only as he is our Lord, but also our Father and Saviour; and in our turn that we are his sons and servants; and therefore that we devote our life to the celebration of his glory.

Q300. In what way shall we arrive at so great a good?

For this end God has left us his holy word. For his spiritual doctrine is as the door by which we enter his celestial kingdom.

Q301. Where must we seek this word?

In the holy scriptures, in which it is contained.

Q302. How must the word be used, that we may receive fruit from it?

We must embrace it with a firm persuasion of heart, as the very truth delivered to us from heaven: we must yield ourselves teachable, and submit our understandings and wills, in obedience to it: we must love it from the heart, that being engraven on our souls, it may take deep root and produce its fruits in our lives: and when we are conformed to this rule, it will become our salvation, as it is appointed.

Q303. Are all these things put in our power?

Not one of them indeed. But it is of God alone, by the grace of his Holy Spirit, to effect in us all that I have mentioned.

Q304. But must we not give diligence, and strive with all earnestness, by reading, hearing, and meditating, that we may profit therein?

Yes, truly; and each one should not only daily exercise himself in private reading; but also at the same time, with special attention, frequently hear sermons in public meetings, where the doctrine of salvation is explained.

Q305. You say then that it is not sufficient for any one to read by himself at home; but that all must assemble together, to hear the same doctrine.

It is a duty to assemble together, when the opportunity is given.

Q306. Can you prove this to me?

The will of God alone ought to satisfy us, abundantly, for proof. He commended this order to his Church, not that two or three only should observe it; but that all should unitedly be subject to it. Besides, he declares this to be the only method for the edification and preservation of his Church. This therefore should be to us a holy and inviolable rule, that it is not lawful for any one to assume to himself, to be wise above his master.

Q307. Is it then necessary that there should be pastors in the Churches?

Yes; and it is our duty to hear them, and to receive from their mouths, with fear and reverence, the doctrines of Christ which they publish. Those then who contemn them, or withdraw from hearing them, despise Christ, and make a division in the society of believers.

Q308. Is it enough for a man, to have been once instructed by his pastor; or ought this course to be pursued through life.

It is useless to begin, unless you persevere. For it becomes us to be the disciples of Christ even unto the end, or rather without end. And he hath committed this office to the ministers of the Church, that they should teach us in his name and stead.