Chapter 12 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith, titled "Of Adoption," addresses the profound and transformative doctrine of adoption in the Christian faith. Adoption is the gracious act of God by which believers are taken into His family and granted all the privileges and responsibilities of being His children. This chapter explores the nature, benefits, and implications of adoption, highlighting its significance in the life of the believer. Let us delve into the key lessons of this chapter, examining the theological depth and practical implications for our faith and life. The Nature of Adoption The confession begins by defining adoption: “All those that are justified, God vouchsafed, in and for the sake of His only Son Jesus Christ, to make partakers of the grace of adoption; by which they are taken into the number, and enjoy the liberties and privileges of the children of God, have His name put upon them, receive the Spirit of adoption, have access to the throne of grace with boldness, are enabled to cry, Abba, Father, are pitied, protected, provided for, and chastened by Him as by a Father; yet never cast off, but sealed to the day of redemption, and inherit the promises as heirs of everlasting salvation.” 1. **Gracious Act of God**: Adoption is a gracious act of God. It is not something earned or deserved by believers but granted by God's loving initiative. This act is done for the sake of His only Son, Jesus Christ, highlighting the centrality of Christ in the process of adoption. 2. **Partakers of Grace**: Those who are justified are made partakers of the grace of adoption. Justification and adoption are closely linked; adoption flows from the believer's justified status, signifying a change in relationship with God. 3. **Divine Family Membership**: Believers are taken into the number of God's children, indicating a new familial relationship with God. This new status comes with significant privileges and responsibilities, as believers are now members of God's household. The Privileges of Adoption The confession enumerates the various privileges that come with adoption: 1. **Liberties and Privileges of God's Children**: Believers enjoy the liberties and privileges of the children of God. These include spiritual freedom, the right to call God their Father, and access to the benefits that come from being part of God's family. 2. **Bearing God's Name**: Believers have God's name put upon them, signifying their new identity and belonging. This new identity carries with it the honor and responsibilities associated with bearing God's name. 3. **Receiving the Spirit of Adoption**: The Spirit of adoption is given to believers, empowering them to live as God's children. The Holy Spirit confirms their status, leads them in the Christian life, and assures them of their place in God's family. 4. **Bold Access to God**: Believers have access to the throne of grace with boldness. This access is a remarkable privilege, allowing them to approach God confidently in prayer and communion, knowing that they are His beloved children. 5. **Intimate Relationship with God**: Believers are enabled to cry, “Abba, Father,” expressing an intimate and personal relationship with God. This term of endearment reflects the deep and affectionate bond between God and His children. The Benefits of Adoption The confession further elaborates on the benefits that come with adoption: 1. **Divine Compassion**: Believers are pitied by God as a loving Father pities His children. This compassion assures them of God's tender care and concern in times of need and distress. 2. **Protection**: As a Father, God protects His children. This protection encompasses both spiritual and physical aspects, ensuring that believers are kept safe from ultimate harm. 3. **Provision**: God provides for His children, meeting their needs according to His riches in glory. This provision includes not only material needs but also spiritual sustenance and guidance. 4. **Loving Discipline**: Believers are chastened by God as a Father disciplines His children. This discipline is an expression of God's love and concern for their growth in holiness and character. 5. **Security and Assurance**: Believers are never cast off by God. They are sealed to the day of redemption, providing them with security and assurance of their salvation. This sealing by the Holy Spirit guarantees their ultimate redemption and inheritance. 6. **Inheritance of Promises**: Believers inherit the promises of God as heirs of everlasting salvation. This inheritance includes all the spiritual blessings in Christ and the hope of eternal life. The Practical Implications of Adoption The doctrine of adoption has profound practical implications for believers: 1. **Assurance and Identity**: Understanding adoption provides believers with assurance of their identity in Christ. They can live confidently, knowing they are beloved children of God with all the associated privileges and responsibilities. 2. **Intimacy with God**: Adoption fosters a deep sense of intimacy with God. Believers are encouraged to cultivate a close and personal relationship with their heavenly Father, enjoying the freedom to approach Him with all their concerns and joys. 3. **Responsibility and Obedience**: Being God's children comes with responsibilities. Believers are called to live in a manner that honors their Father, reflecting His character in their actions and attitudes. This includes obeying His commands and living out the values of His kingdom. 4. **Community and Fellowship**: Adoption into God's family brings believers into a new community. They are now brothers and sisters in Christ, called to love, support, and encourage one another. This communal aspect of adoption emphasizes the importance of church life and fellowship. 5. **Hope and Encouragement**: The promises of adoption provide hope and encouragement. Believers can face life's challenges with the assurance that they are heirs of God's promises and that their future is secure in Him. 6. **Evangelistic Zeal**: Understanding the privileges of adoption motivates believers to share the gospel with others. They desire others to experience the same grace and joy of being part of God's family, fueling their evangelistic efforts. Conclusion Chapter 12 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith presents a rich and profound doctrine of adoption. It emphasizes the gracious initiative of God, the privileges and benefits of being His children, and the practical implications for believers' lives. These truths provide a foundation for understanding the believer's new identity in Christ, fostering assurance, intimacy with God, and a sense of responsibility and community. As we embrace these truths, let us be strengthened in our faith, filled with gratitude for God's grace, and motivated to live lives that reflect our status as His beloved children. May we rest in the assurance of our adoption, cultivate a close relationship with our heavenly Father, and share the good news of adoption with a world in need of the gospel.
Chapter 11 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith, titled "Of Justification," deals with one of the most crucial doctrines in Christian theology. Justification is the act by which God declares a sinner righteous on the basis of faith in Jesus Christ. This chapter explores the nature, means, and implications of justification, emphasizing its foundational role in the salvation of believers. Let us delve into the key lessons of this chapter, examining the theological depth and practical implications for our faith and life. The Nature of Justification The confession begins by defining justification: “Those whom God effectually calleth, He also freely justifieth, not by infusing righteousness into them, but by pardoning their sins, and by accounting and accepting their persons as righteous; not for anything wrought in them, or done by them, but for Christ's sake alone; not by imputing faith itself, the act of believing, or any other evangelical obedience to them, as their righteousness; but by imputing Christ's active obedience unto the whole law, and passive obedience in His death for their whole and sole righteousness, they receiving and resting on Him and His righteousness by faith; which faith they have not of themselves, it is the gift of God.” 1. **Divine Initiative**: Justification is an act of God, who effectually calls and freely justifies those He has chosen. It is not a result of human effort but a divine declaration. 2. **Pardon and Acceptance**: Justification involves both the pardon of sins and the accounting and accepting of the sinner as righteous. This dual aspect highlights the comprehensive nature of justification—it deals with the problem of sin and grants a positive righteousness. 3. **Christ's Righteousness**: The righteousness accounted to believers is not their own but Christ's. It includes His active obedience (His perfect adherence to God's law) and His passive obedience (His suffering and death). This imputed righteousness is the sole basis for justification. 4. **Faith as a Gift**: Faith is the means by which believers receive and rest on Christ's righteousness. However, this faith is not from themselves; it is a gift from God. This underscores the grace and sovereignty of God in the salvation process. The Ground of Justification The confession emphasizes that justification is grounded solely in Christ's righteousness: “Christ, by His obedience and death, did fully discharge the debt of all those that are thus justified, and did by the sacrifice of Himself, in the blood of His cross, undergoing in their stead the penalty due unto them, make a proper, real, and full satisfaction to God's justice in their behalf; yet, inasmuch as He was given by the Father for them, and His obedience and satisfaction accepted in their stead, and both freely, not for anything in them, their justification is only of free grace, that both the exact justice and rich grace of God might be glorified in the justification of sinners.” 1. **Complete Satisfaction**: Christ's obedience and death fully discharge the debt of sin for those justified. His sacrifice satisfies God's justice completely, ensuring that there is no remaining penalty for sin. 2. **Vicarious Substitution**: Christ's work is a proper, real, and full satisfaction for sin, meaning He truly stood in the place of sinners and bore their punishment. This substitutionary aspect is central to the doctrine of justification. 3. **Divine Initiative and Acceptance**: Christ was given by the Father, and His work was accepted in place of the sinner. This divine initiative and acceptance highlight the Trinitarian cooperation in the work of salvation. 4. **Free Grace**: Justification is entirely of free grace. It is not based on anything within the sinner but solely on God's gracious provision in Christ. This magnifies both God's justice and His rich grace in the justification of sinners. The Means of Justification The confession further explains the means by which justification is received: “God did, from all eternity, decree to justify all the elect, and Christ did, in the fullness of time, die for their sins, and rise again for their justification; nevertheless, they are not justified personally, until the Holy Spirit doth in due time actually apply Christ unto them.” 1. **Eternal Decree**: God's decree to justify the elect was made from all eternity. This emphasizes the eternal plan of God in salvation, predating any human response. 2. **Historical Fulfillment**: Christ's death and resurrection occurred in time and are the historical basis for justification. His resurrection, in particular, is linked to the believer's justification, demonstrating the acceptance of His sacrifice by the Father. 3. **Application by the Spirit**: Despite the eternal decree and historical fulfillment, justification is not applied to individuals until the Holy Spirit works in due time. The Spirit's role is crucial in applying the benefits of Christ's work to believers personally. The Assurance of Justification The confession addresses the assurance that accompanies justification: “God doth continue to forgive the sins of those that are justified, and although they can never fall from the state of justification, yet they may, by their sins, fall under God's fatherly displeasure; and in that condition, they have not usually the light of His countenance restored unto them, until they humble themselves, confess their sins, beg pardon, and renew their faith and repentance.” 1. **Ongoing Forgiveness**: Justification includes the ongoing forgiveness of sins. Even after being justified, believers continue to need and receive God's forgiveness. 2. **Perseverance in Justification**: Believers can never fall from the state of justification. This provides immense assurance, affirming the security of the believer's standing before God. 3. **Fatherly Displeasure**: Sin can bring a believer under God's fatherly displeasure, impacting their sense of communion with Him. This does not affect their justified state but their experience of God's favor. 4. **Restoration through Repentance**: The light of God's countenance is usually restored through humility, confession, and renewed faith and repentance. This process underscores the ongoing need for believers to live in repentance and faith. The Scope of Justification The confession clarifies the comprehensive scope of justification: “The justification of believers under the Old Testament was, in all these respects, one and the same with the justification of believers under the New Testament.” 1. **Unity of Justification**: Justification is the same for believers in both the Old and New Testaments. This highlights the continuity of God's saving work throughout redemptive history. 2. **Consistent Basis**: The basis of justification has always been Christ's righteousness, even for those who lived before His earthly ministry. Their faith looked forward to the promised Messiah, just as New Testament believers look back to Christ's finished work. Practical Implications of Justification The doctrine of justification has profound practical implications for believers: 1. **Assurance and Peace**: Understanding justification provides assurance of salvation and peace with God. Believers can rest in the knowledge that their standing before God is secure, not based on their performance but on Christ's perfect righteousness. 2. **Gratitude and Worship**: Justification by grace through faith leads to deep gratitude and worship. Recognizing that salvation is a gift from God, believers are moved to worship Him for His mercy and grace. 3. **Humility and Dependence**: Justification fosters humility, as it acknowledges that salvation is not earned but received by faith. This humility leads to a greater dependence on God for daily living and spiritual growth. 4. **Motivation for Holiness**: While justification is by faith alone, it produces a desire for holiness. The assurance of being declared righteous motivates believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling, reflecting the transformative power of the gospel. 5. **Evangelistic Zeal**: The doctrine of justification fuels evangelistic zeal. Knowing that justification is available through faith in Christ alone, believers are compelled to share the gospel with others, inviting them to receive the same gift of grace. 6. **Unity in Christ**: Justification brings unity among believers, regardless of background or ethnicity. All who are justified by faith in Christ are part of the same family of God, fostering a spirit of unity and love within the church. Conclusion Chapter 11 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith presents a rich and comprehensive doctrine of justification. It emphasizes the divine initiative, the complete work of Christ, the role of faith, and the assurance and implications of being justified by grace. These truths provide a foundation for understanding the gospel, living in the assurance of salvation, and pursuing a life that glorifies God. As we embrace these truths, let us be strengthened in our faith, filled with gratitude for God's grace, and motivated to live lives that reflect His righteousness. May we rest in the assurance of our justification, worship God for His mercy, and share the good news of justification by faith with a world in need of the gospel. Chapter 10 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith, titled "Of Effectual Calling," addresses the doctrine of how God's sovereign grace effectively brings sinners to salvation. This chapter explains the nature of effectual calling, its divine origin, its impact on the individual, and the assurance it provides to believers. Understanding effectual calling is crucial for comprehending the work of the Holy Spirit in the process of salvation and the assurance of God's sovereign grace. Let us explore the key lessons of this chapter, delving into the theological richness and practical implications for our faith and life. The Nature of Effectual Calling The confession begins by defining the nature of effectual calling: “Those whom God hath predestinated unto life, He is pleased in His appointed and accepted time, effectually to call, by His Word and Spirit, out of that state of sin and death in which they are by nature, to grace and salvation by Jesus Christ.” 1. **Predestination and Calling**: Effectual calling is rooted in God's eternal predestination. Those whom God has predestined to eternal life are, in His appointed time, effectually called to salvation. This emphasizes the sovereign initiative of God in the salvation process. 2. **Divine Timing**: The calling happens in God's appointed and accepted time, underscoring His sovereignty and perfect timing in bringing individuals to faith. It is not based on human decision but on God's predetermined plan. 3. **Means of Calling**: The effectual call is accomplished through the Word and Spirit. The Word of God, proclaimed through the gospel, and the Holy Spirit work together to bring individuals out of their natural state of sin and death into the state of grace and salvation by Jesus Christ. 4. **Transformation**: This call brings individuals out of their state of sin and death, transforming them to a state of grace and salvation. It is a radical change, moving from spiritual death to spiritual life. The Power of Effectual Calling The confession continues by describing the power and effectiveness of this calling: “Enlightening their minds spiritually and savingly to understand the things of God; taking away their heart of stone, and giving unto them a heart of flesh; renewing their wills, and by His almighty power determining them to that which is good, and effectually drawing them to Jesus Christ; yet so as they come most freely, being made willing by His grace.” 1. **Spiritual Enlightenment**: Effectual calling involves the enlightenment of the mind. The Holy Spirit illuminates the understanding, enabling individuals to comprehend the spiritual and saving truths of God. This is more than intellectual understanding; it is a deep, spiritual perception. 2. **Heart Transformation**: God takes away the heart of stone and gives a heart of flesh. This metaphor signifies a fundamental change in the individual's inner being, from hardness and resistance to sensitivity and responsiveness to God's will. 3. **Will Renewal**: The renewal of the will is a key aspect of effectual calling. By His almighty power, God renews the will, directing it towards what is good. This divine work ensures that the individual is inclined to choose and pursue righteousness. 4. **Irresistible Drawing**: God's effectual calling irresistibly draws individuals to Jesus Christ. This does not mean that they are forced against their will but that their will is transformed and they come most freely, being made willing by His grace. The Universality and Particularity of Effectual Calling The confession addresses the scope of effectual calling, emphasizing its particularity: “This effectual call is of God’s free and special grace alone, not from anything at all foreseen in man, nor from any power or agency in the creature, being wholly passive therein, being dead in sins and trespasses, until being quickened and renewed by the Holy Spirit; he is thereby enabled to answer this call, and to embrace the grace offered and conveyed in it.” 1. **Free and Special Grace**: Effectual calling is entirely by God's free and special grace. It is not based on any foreseen merit, action, or decision in the individual. God's grace is the sole cause of this calling. 2. **Human Passivity**: In effectual calling, the individual is wholly passive. Humans, in their natural state, are dead in sins and trespasses and incapable of responding to God on their own. The initiative and power come entirely from God. 3. **Quickening and Renewal**: The Holy Spirit quickens and renews the individual, enabling them to respond to the call. This quickening is the act of making alive those who were spiritually dead, granting them the ability to embrace the grace offered in the gospel. Assurance and Effectual Calling The confession provides assurance to believers regarding their effectual calling: “Elect infants dying in infancy are regenerated and saved by Christ through the Spirit; who worketh when, and where, and how He pleaseth; so also are all other elect persons, who are incapable of being outwardly called by the ministry of the Word.” 1. **Infant Salvation**: The confession acknowledges the salvation of elect infants who die in infancy. They are regenerated and saved by Christ through the Spirit, who works according to His sovereign will. This provides comfort and assurance regarding the fate of infants who pass away. 2. **Incapacitated Individuals**: Similarly, all elect persons who are incapable of being outwardly called by the ministry of the Word, such as those with severe mental disabilities, are also saved by Christ through the Spirit. God's grace is not limited by human means and can reach those who are unable to respond outwardly to the gospel message. The Necessity of the Gospel and Ministry The confession affirms the necessity of the gospel proclamation and the ministry of the Word in effectual calling: “Others, not elected, although they may be called by the ministry of the Word, and may have some common operations of the Spirit, yet not being effectually drawn by the Father, they neither will nor can truly come to Christ, and therefore cannot be saved: much less can men that receive not the Christian religion be saved; be they never so diligent to frame their lives according to the light of nature, and the law of that religion they do profess.” 1. **Common Operations of the Spirit**: Not all who hear the gospel and experience the common operations of the Spirit are effectually called. Some may respond outwardly or have a superficial experience, but without the effectual drawing of the Father, they do not truly come to Christ and are not saved. 2. **Necessity of True Conversion**: True conversion requires effectual calling. Mere exposure to the gospel or outward conformity to religious practices is insufficient for salvation. Only those effectually called by the Father come to Christ and are saved. 3. **Exclusivity of Christ for Salvation**: The confession underscores the exclusivity of salvation through Christ. Those who do not receive the Christian faith, regardless of their moral diligence or adherence to other religions, cannot be saved. Salvation is through Christ alone, by grace through faith. Practical Implications of Effectual Calling The doctrine of effectual calling has significant practical implications for believers: 1. **Assurance of Salvation**: Understanding effectual calling provides assurance of salvation. Believers can be confident that their faith is the result of God's sovereign and effectual work, guaranteeing their perseverance and ultimate salvation. 2. **Gratitude for Grace**: Recognizing that salvation is entirely by God's grace fosters deep gratitude. Believers are moved to worship and thanksgiving for God's sovereign initiative and unmerited favor in calling them to salvation. 3. **Humility and Dependence**: The doctrine of effectual calling humbles believers, acknowledging that their salvation is not due to their own efforts or merits but solely to God's grace. This humility leads to a deeper dependence on God for ongoing spiritual growth and sanctification. 4. **Evangelistic Zeal**: Understanding that God uses the proclamation of the gospel as the means of effectual calling motivates believers to evangelism. They are assured that God will use their witness to draw His elect to Himself, providing confidence and urgency in sharing the gospel. 5. **Comfort in Sovereignty**: The doctrine of effectual calling offers comfort in God's sovereignty. Believers can trust that God is in control of the salvation process, working all things according to His perfect will and timing. 6. **Inclusivity of Grace**: The acknowledgment that God's grace can reach even those who are incapable of outwardly responding to the gospel, such as infants and the mentally incapacitated, highlights the inclusivity and boundlessness of God's saving grace. Conclusion Chapter 10 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith presents a comprehensive and profound doctrine of effectual calling. It emphasizes God's sovereign grace in predestination, the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, and the assurance of salvation for those effectually called. These truths provide a foundation for understanding the nature of salvation, the role of human will, and the assurance of God's sovereign grace. As we embrace these truths, let us be strengthened in our faith, filled with gratitude for God's grace, and motivated to live lives that reflect His calling. May we persevere in our witness to the gospel, trust in God's sovereign work, and rest in the assurance of His effectual calling. Chapter 9 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith, titled "Of Free Will," delves into the complex and often debated topic of human free will. This chapter provides a nuanced understanding of free will in relation to God's sovereignty, human nature, and the plan of redemption. It addresses the state of human will before and after the Fall, in conversion, and in the glorified state. Let us explore the key lessons of this chapter, examining the theological depth and practical implications for our understanding of human will and responsibility. The State of Innocency The confession begins by describing the state of free will in humanity before the Fall: "God hath endued the will of man with that natural liberty and power of acting upon choice, that it is neither forced, nor by any necessity of nature determined to do good or evil." 1. **Natural Liberty**: In the state of innocence, humans were endowed with natural liberty. This means that Adam and Eve had the capacity to choose freely without being coerced or predetermined by any external force. 2. **Power of Choice**: The will of man had the power of acting upon choice. Adam and Eve could choose between good and evil, righteousness and sin, and their choices were genuinely free. 3. **No Necessity of Nature**: Their will was not bound by any necessity of nature to do good or evil. They had the ability to obey God's commands and live in righteousness, but they also had the potential to disobey and fall into sin. The State of Fall The confession then addresses the state of human will after the Fall: "Man, in his state of innocency, had freedom and power to will and to do that which was good and well-pleasing to God; but yet was mutable, so that he might fall from it." 1. **Freedom and Power**: In the state of innocence, Adam and Eve had the freedom and power to will and do what was pleasing to God. They were capable of living in perfect obedience and righteousness. 2. **Mutability**: Despite their initial righteousness, Adam and Eve were mutable, meaning they had the potential to change and fall from their state of innocence. This mutability led to the Fall when they chose to disobey God. 3. **Consequences of the Fall**: The Fall resulted in a fundamental change in human nature. Sin entered the world, and the will of man became enslaved to sin, unable to choose good apart from God's grace. The State of Nature The confession describes the state of human will after the Fall and before conversion: "Man, by his fall into a state of sin, hath wholly lost all ability of will to any spiritual good accompanying salvation; so as a natural man, being altogether averse from that good, and dead in sin, is not able, by his own strength, to convert himself, or to prepare himself thereunto." 1. **Total Inability**: After the Fall, humans lost the ability to will any spiritual good accompanying salvation. This is often referred to as total depravity or total inability. The will is corrupted by sin, and apart from God's grace, humans cannot choose to follow God or do what is spiritually good. 2. **Averse to Good**: In their natural state, humans are averse to spiritual good. They are dead in sin and inclined towards evil, unable to seek God or respond to His grace on their own. 3. **Inability to Convert**: The natural man cannot convert himself or prepare himself for conversion by his own strength. Salvation is entirely dependent on the work of God in regenerating the heart and will. The State of Grace The confession then explains the state of human will in the context of conversion and regeneration: "When God converts a sinner, and translates him into the state of grace, He freeth him from his natural bondage under sin, and by His grace alone enables him freely to will and to do that which is spiritually good; yet so as that by reason of his remaining corruptions, he doth not perfectly, nor only, will that which is good, but doth also will that which is evil." 1. **Divine Liberation**: In conversion, God liberates the sinner from the natural bondage of sin. This liberation is a work of God's grace, freeing the will from its enslavement to sin. 2. **Enablement by Grace**: By grace alone, God enables the regenerate person to will and do what is spiritually good. This empowerment is not from human effort but from the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. 3. **Ongoing Corruption**: Despite the new ability to will good, believers still contend with remaining corruptions. The will is not yet perfected and continues to struggle with sin. Believers will both good and evil, reflecting the ongoing battle between the flesh and the Spirit. The State of Glory Finally, the confession describes the state of human will in the glorified state: "This will of man is made perfectly and immutably free to good alone in the state of glory only." 1. **Perfect Freedom**: In the state of glory, the will of man is made perfectly free. Believers will no longer struggle with sin or corruption, and their will is wholly aligned with God's will. 2. **Immutability**: In glory, the will is immutable, meaning it cannot change or fall into sin. This state of perfect holiness and righteousness is the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive work. 3. **Eternal Good**: The glorified will is free to do good alone, reflecting the complete restoration and renewal of human nature. Believers will live in perfect harmony with God, fully expressing their redeemed will. Practical Implications of Free Will The doctrine of free will as articulated in the 1689 Baptist Confession has profound practical implications for our faith and life: 1. **Humility and Dependence**: Recognizing our natural inability to choose spiritual good apart from God's grace cultivates humility and dependence on God. We acknowledge our need for His transformative work in our lives. 2. **Gratitude for Grace**: Understanding the liberating work of God's grace in freeing our will from bondage to sin leads to deep gratitude. We praise God for His mercy and the gift of salvation through Christ. 3. **Perseverance in Faith**: The ongoing struggle with sin in the state of grace reminds us of the need for perseverance. We rely on the Holy Spirit to continually renew our will and strengthen our resolve to follow Christ. 4. **Hope of Glory**: The promise of a perfected will in the state of glory provides hope and encouragement. We look forward to the day when we will be fully free from sin and able to will only what is good, living in eternal communion with God. 5. **Evangelism and Discipleship**: The doctrine of free will informs our approach to evangelism and discipleship. We recognize that conversion is a work of God’s grace, prompting us to pray fervently for the lost and to trust in God's sovereign work in drawing people to Himself. 6. **Moral Responsibility**: While recognizing our natural inability apart from grace, we also affirm human moral responsibility. Each person is accountable for their actions and choices, which underscores the need for repentance and faith in Christ. Conclusion Chapter 9 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith presents a nuanced and comprehensive doctrine of free will. It addresses the different states of human will—from innocence to fall, grace, and glory—highlighting the profound impact of sin and the transformative power of God's grace. These truths provide a foundation for understanding human responsibility, the necessity of divine intervention in salvation, and the hope of ultimate restoration in glory. As we embrace these truths, let us be strengthened in our faith, humbled by our dependence on God, and motivated to live lives that reflect His grace and truth. May we persevere in the battle against sin, rejoice in the liberating work of Christ, and eagerly await the day when our wills will be perfectly free to do good alone in His eternal kingdom. Chapter 8 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith, titled "Of Christ the Mediator," provides a profound and detailed exposition of the person and work of Jesus Christ. This chapter is foundational for understanding Christian theology and soteriology, as it articulates the essential role of Christ as the mediator between God and humanity. Through His incarnation, life, death, resurrection, and ascension, Christ accomplishes the redemption of His people. Let us delve into the key lessons of this chapter, exploring the rich theological truths and their practical implications for our faith and life. The Appointment of Christ as Mediator The confession begins by affirming the eternal purpose of God in appointing Christ as the mediator: “It pleased God, in His eternal purpose, to choose and ordain the Lord Jesus, His only begotten Son, according to the covenant made between them both, to be the Mediator between God and man; the Prophet, Priest, and King; Head and Savior of His Church, the Heir of all things, and Judge of the world; unto whom He did from all eternity give a people to be His seed, and to be by Him in time redeemed, called, justified, sanctified, and glorified.” 1. **Eternal Purpose**: The appointment of Christ as mediator is rooted in God's eternal purpose. Before the foundation of the world, God chose and ordained Jesus to fulfill this role, highlighting the divine plan and foreknowledge in the work of redemption. 2. **Covenant of Redemption**: The covenant made between the Father and the Son, often referred to as the covenant of redemption, establishes the framework for Christ's mediatorial work. This covenant is the basis for the redemption of God's elect. 3. **Roles of Christ**: Christ fulfills multiple roles as mediator: - **Prophet**: He reveals God's will and truth to humanity. - **Priest**: He offers Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin and intercedes on behalf of His people. - **King**: He reigns with authority over His church and the world. 4. **Head and Savior**: Christ is the head and Savior of the church. As the head, He governs and nourishes His body, the church. As the Savior, He rescues His people from sin and death. 5. **Heir and Judge**: Christ is the heir of all things and the judge of the world. He inherits all creation and will execute final judgment, establishing justice and righteousness. 6. **Given People**: From all eternity, God gave a people to Christ to be His seed. These people are redeemed, called, justified, sanctified, and glorified by Him in time, underscoring the completeness of Christ's redemptive work. The Incarnation of Christ The confession then addresses the incarnation of Christ: “The Son of God, the second person in the Holy Trinity, being very and eternal God, the brightness of the Father’s glory, of one substance and equal with Him who made the world, who upholdeth and governeth all things He hath made, did, when the fullness of time was come, take upon Him man’s nature, with all the essential properties and common infirmities thereof, yet without sin; being conceived by the Holy Spirit in the womb of the Virgin Mary, the Holy Spirit coming down upon her: and the power of the Most High overshadowing her; and so was made of a woman, of the tribe of Judah, of the seed of Abraham and David according to the Scriptures; so that two whole, perfect, and distinct natures were inseparably joined together in one person, without conversion, composition, or confusion; which person is very God and very man, yet one Christ, the only Mediator between God and man.” 1. **Divine Nature**: Christ, the Son of God, is the second person of the Holy Trinity, very and eternal God. He shares the same divine essence with the Father, reflecting His glory and possessing all divine attributes. 2. **Human Nature**: In the fullness of time, Christ took upon Himself human nature. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit in the womb of the Virgin Mary, fully entering into human existence with all its essential properties and common infirmities, yet without sin. 3. **Two Natures in One Person**: Christ possesses two distinct natures—divine and human—united in one person. This union is without conversion, composition, or confusion, maintaining the full integrity of both natures. 4. **Scriptural Fulfillment**: The incarnation of Christ fulfills the promises and prophecies of the Old Testament, being born of the tribe of Judah, the seed of Abraham, and the lineage of David. 5. **Mediator**: As both God and man, Christ uniquely qualifies to be the mediator between God and humanity. His dual nature allows Him to bridge the gap caused by sin, representing both God to man and man to God. The Redemptive Work of Christ The confession elaborates on the redemptive work of Christ: “The Lord Jesus, in His human nature thus united to the divine, in the person of the Son, was sanctified and anointed with the Holy Spirit above measure; having in Him all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, in whom it pleased the Father that all fullness should dwell; to the end that being holy, harmless, undefiled, and full of grace and truth, He might be thoroughly furnished to execute the office of a Mediator and Surety; which office He took not unto Himself, but was thereunto called by His Father; who also put all power and judgment in His hand, and gave Him commandment to execute the same.” 1. **Sanctified and Anointed**: In His human nature, Christ was sanctified and anointed with the Holy Spirit beyond measure. This anointing equipped Him with all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, enabling Him to fulfill His mediatorial role. 2. **Fullness of God**: The fullness of God dwelled in Christ, pleasing the Father. This fullness includes all divine attributes, making Christ the perfect and complete revelation of God. 3. **Holy and Undefiled**: Christ's human nature was holy, harmless, undefiled, and full of grace and truth. His sinlessness qualifies Him to be the perfect mediator and sacrificial lamb. 4. **Divine Appointment**: Christ did not assume His mediatorial office on His own but was appointed and called by the Father. The Father endowed Him with all power and judgment, commissioning Him to execute the office of mediator and surety. The Accomplishment of Redemption The confession further explains how Christ accomplished redemption: “This office the Lord Jesus did most willingly undertake; which that He might discharge, He was made under the law, and did perfectly fulfill it, and underwent the punishment due to us, which we should have borne and suffered, being made sin and a curse for us; enduring most grievous sorrows in His soul, and most painful sufferings in His body; was crucified, and died, and remained in the state of the dead, yet saw no corruption: on the third day He arose from the dead with the same body in which He suffered; with which He also ascended into heaven, and there sitteth at the right hand of His Father, making intercession; and shall return to judge men and angels at the end of the world.” 1. **Willing Undertaking**: Christ willingly undertook His mediatorial office, displaying His love and obedience to the Father and His compassion for humanity. 2. **Subjection to the Law**: To fulfill His office, Christ was made under the law, perfectly fulfilling its demands. His obedience to the law was necessary for Him to be a righteous substitute for sinners. 3. **Substitutionary Atonement**: Christ bore the punishment due to us, being made sin and a curse for us. His suffering and death on the cross were in our place, satisfying the justice of God and securing our redemption. 4. **Resurrection and Ascension**: On the third day, Christ rose from the dead with the same body in which He suffered. His resurrection demonstrates His victory over sin and death. He then ascended into heaven, where He sits at the right hand of the Father, interceding for His people. 5. **Return and Judgment**: Christ will return at the end of the world to judge men and angels. His second coming will consummate His redemptive work and establish His eternal kingdom. The Benefits of Christ's Mediation The confession outlines the benefits of Christ's mediation for believers: “The Lord Jesus, by His perfect obedience and sacrifice of Himself, which He through the eternal Spirit once offered up unto God, hath fully satisfied the justice of God, procured reconciliation, and purchased an everlasting inheritance in the kingdom of heaven, for all those whom the Father hath given unto Him.” 1. **Satisfaction of Justice**: Christ's perfect obedience and self-sacrifice fully satisfied the justice of God. His atoning work meets the demands of God's holiness and righteousness. 2. **Reconciliation**: Through His mediation, Christ procures reconciliation between God and humanity. By bearing our sins and their penalty, He restores our relationship with God. 3. **Everlasting Inheritance**: Christ's work secures an everlasting inheritance in the kingdom of heaven for all those given to Him by the Father. This inheritance includes eternal life, communion with God, and the blessings of His kingdom. 4. **Grace and Assurance**: Believers receive the benefits of Christ's mediation by grace through faith. This provides assurance of salvation, as our standing before God is based on the finished work of Christ, not our efforts. Practical Implications of Christ's Mediation The doctrine of Christ's mediation has profound practical implications for our faith and life: 1. **Worship and Adoration**: Understanding the person and work of Christ leads us to worship and adore Him. His mediatorial work is the foundation of our praise and thanksgiving. 2. **Faith and Trust**: Our faith and trust are grounded in Christ's finished work. We rely on Him as our mediator, confident in His ability to save and intercede for us. 3. **Holiness and Obedience**: The example of Christ's perfect obedience motivates us to pursue holiness and obey God's commands. His life and sacrifice call us to live in a manner worthy of the gospel. 4. **Mission and Witness**: The redemptive work of Christ compels us to proclaim the gospel. We are called to share the good news of Christ's mediation with others, inviting them to trust in Him for salvation. 5. **Hope and Perseverance**: The promise of Christ's return and the assurance of our inheritance in His kingdom provide hope and perseverance in the Christian life. We look forward to His coming with eager expectation, enduring trials and suffering with confidence in His ultimate victory. Conclusion Chapter 8 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith presents a rich and comprehensive doctrine of Christ the mediator. It highlights the eternal purpose of God in appointing Christ, the incarnation, the accomplishment of redemption, and the benefits of His mediatorial work. These truths provide a foundation for our faith, worship, and witness as believers. As we embrace these truths, let us be strengthened in our faith, encouraged in our walk with Christ, and motivated in our mission to proclaim the gospel. May we live with the assurance of Christ's finished work, the confidence of our salvation in Him, and the hope of His return and eternal reign. Chapter 7 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith, titled "Of God's Covenant," offers a profound exploration of God's covenantal relationship with humanity. This doctrine is central to understanding God's redemptive work throughout history and His promises to His people. The covenantal framework provides the structure for understanding the unfolding of God's plan of salvation, emphasizing His faithfulness, grace, and the assurance of His promises. Let's delve into the key lessons of this chapter, examining the theological depth and practical implications for our lives and churches today. The Necessity of God's Covenant The confession begins by asserting the necessity of God's covenant: “The distance between God and the creature is so great, that although reasonable creatures do owe obedience unto Him as their Creator, yet they could never have attained the reward of life but by some voluntary condescension on God's part, which He hath been pleased to express by way of covenant.” 1. **Creator-Creature Distinction**: The distance between God and humanity is vast. God is infinitely holy, transcendent, and sovereign, while humans are finite, fallen, and dependent creatures. This Creator-creature distinction underscores the impossibility of humans attaining eternal life through their efforts. 2. **Owed Obedience**: As creatures made in the image of God, humans owe Him obedience and worship. However, due to the fall, our obedience is marred by sin, rendering us incapable of fulfilling God's righteous requirements on our own. 3. **Voluntary Condescension**: God, in His grace, voluntarily condescends to enter into a covenant with humanity. This condescension is an expression of His love and mercy, providing a way for us to enter into a relationship with Him. 4. **Covenantal Framework**: The covenant serves as the framework through which God interacts with humanity. It is a binding agreement initiated by God, establishing the terms of His relationship with His people and the promises of life and blessing. The Covenant of Works The confession then discusses the initial covenant made with Adam: “The first covenant made with man was a covenant of works, wherein life was promised to Adam, and in him to his posterity, upon condition of perfect and personal obedience.” 1. **Covenant of Works**: The first covenant, known as the covenant of works, was made with Adam as the representative of humanity. Under this covenant, life and blessing were promised to Adam and his descendants on the condition of perfect and personal obedience. 2. **Representative Head**: Adam stood as the federal head or representative of all humanity. His obedience or disobedience would have consequences not only for himself but for all his descendants. 3. **Condition of Obedience**: The condition of the covenant of works was perfect obedience to God's commands. This highlights the holiness and justice of God, who requires perfect righteousness. 4. **Failure and Consequence**: Adam's failure to keep the covenant resulted in sin, death, and separation from God for himself and all his descendants. This underscores the seriousness of sin and the impossibility of attaining righteousness through human effort. The Covenant of Grace In response to humanity's failure under the covenant of works, God established the covenant of grace: “Man, by his fall, having made himself incapable of life by that covenant, the Lord was pleased to make a second, commonly called the covenant of grace; wherein He freely offereth unto sinners life and salvation by Jesus Christ; requiring of them faith in Him, that they may be saved, and promising to give unto all those that are ordained unto eternal life His Holy Spirit, to make them willing and able to believe.” 1. **Incapability of Life**: After the fall, humanity became incapable of attaining life through the covenant of works. Sin rendered us unable to achieve the perfect obedience required by God. 2. **Covenant of Grace**: In His mercy, God established the covenant of grace, offering life and salvation to sinners through Jesus Christ. This covenant is based on grace, not human merit, and is a testament to God's love and mercy. 3. **Requirement of Faith**: The condition of the covenant of grace is faith in Jesus Christ. Unlike the covenant of works, which required perfect obedience, the covenant of grace requires trust in the finished work of Christ for salvation. 4. **Promise of the Holy Spirit**: God promises to give the Holy Spirit to those ordained to eternal life. The Holy Spirit works in the hearts of believers, making them willing and able to believe in Christ, ensuring their perseverance in faith. The Administration of the Covenant of Grace The confession elaborates on the administration of the covenant of grace throughout history: “This covenant is revealed in the gospel; first of all to Adam in the promise of salvation by the seed of the woman, and afterwards by farther steps, until the full discovery thereof was completed in the New Testament; and it is founded in that eternal covenant transaction that was between the Father and the Son about the redemption of the elect; and it is alone by the grace of this covenant that all the posterity of fallen Adam that ever were saved did obtain life and blessed immortality, man being now utterly incapable of acceptance with God upon those terms on which Adam stood in his state of innocency.” 1. **Progressive Revelation**: The covenant of grace was progressively revealed throughout redemptive history. It began with the promise of salvation given to Adam and unfolded through various covenants with Noah, Abraham, Moses, and David, reaching its full revelation in the New Testament through Jesus Christ. 2. **Eternal Covenant**: The covenant of grace is rooted in an eternal covenant transaction between the Father and the Son. This eternal covenant, often referred to as the covenant of redemption, was a divine agreement within the Trinity to redeem the elect through the work of Christ. 3. **Salvation Through Grace**: All who are saved, from Adam to the end of time, obtain life and blessed immortality through the grace of the covenant of grace. Salvation has always been by grace through faith, not by works, and is entirely dependent on God's initiative and provision. 4. **Incapability of Acceptance by Works**: Humanity, after the fall, is utterly incapable of being accepted by God on the basis of works. The covenant of grace highlights the necessity of God's intervention and the provision of a mediator, Jesus Christ, for our salvation. The Mediator of the Covenant Central to the covenant of grace is the role of Jesus Christ as the mediator: “This covenant is revealed in the gospel; first of all to Adam in the promise of salvation by the seed of the woman, and afterwards by farther steps, until the full discovery thereof was completed in the New Testament; and it is founded in that eternal covenant transaction that was between the Father and the Son about the redemption of the elect; and it is alone by the grace of this covenant that all the posterity of fallen Adam that ever were saved did obtain life and blessed immortality, man being now utterly incapable of acceptance with God upon those terms on which Adam stood in his state of innocency.” 1. **Promised Seed**: The first revelation of the covenant of grace was given to Adam in the promise of the seed of the woman (Genesis 3:15). This promise pointed to Christ, who would ultimately defeat Satan and redeem humanity. 2. **Full Revelation in Christ**: The full revelation of the covenant of grace was completed in the New Testament with the coming of Jesus Christ. He is the promised seed, the fulfillment of all Old Testament types and shadows, and the mediator of the new covenant. 3. **Mediator's Role**: As the mediator, Jesus fulfills the terms of the covenant on behalf of His people. He perfectly obeyed the law, suffered the penalty for sin, and secured eternal life for all who trust in Him. 4. **Assurance of Salvation**: The work of Christ as mediator provides assurance of salvation for believers. Because the covenant is based on His finished work, not our efforts, we can have confidence in our standing before God. Practical Implications of the Covenant The doctrine of the covenant has profound practical implications for our faith and life: 1. **Assurance and Security**: Understanding the covenant of grace provides assurance and security in our salvation. We rest in the finished work of Christ, knowing that our salvation is secure in Him. 2. **Covenantal Community**: The church is a covenantal community, united by faith in Christ. This shapes our identity, relationships, and mission as we live out our calling as God's people. 3. **Faith and Obedience**: While salvation is by grace through faith, the covenant also calls us to live in obedience to God's commands. Our obedience is a response to His grace, empowered by the Holy Spirit. 4. **Sacraments as Signs and Seals**: The sacraments of baptism and the Lord's Supper are signs and seals of the covenant of grace. They serve as visible reminders of God's promises and our participation in the new covenant through faith in Christ. 5. **Hope and Perseverance**: The covenant of grace provides hope and perseverance in the Christian life. We look forward to the fulfillment of God's promises, confident that He will bring His redemptive purposes to completion. Conclusion Chapter 7 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith presents a rich and comprehensive doctrine of God's covenant. It highlights the necessity of God's condescension in establishing a covenantal relationship with humanity, the failure of the covenant of works, and the gracious provision of the covenant of grace through Jesus Christ. These truths provide a foundation for understanding the unfolding of God's redemptive plan and offer assurance, security, and hope for believers. As we embrace these truths, let us be strengthened in our faith, encouraged in our walk with Christ, and motivated in our mission as a covenantal community. May we live with the assurance of God's promises, the confidence of our salvation in Christ, and the hope of eternal life in His presence. Amen, Amen, Amen. In our contemporary culture, the concept of sin is often misunderstood or dismissed altogether. Chapter 6 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith, titled "Of the Fall of Man, of Sin, and of the Punishment Thereof," provides a crucial understanding of human nature, the origin of sin, and the dire consequences that follow. This chapter offers profound insights into the human condition and lays the foundation for understanding the need for salvation through Jesus Christ. Let us delve into the key lessons of this chapter, drawing out the deep theological truths it presents and their vital implications for our lives and our churches today. The Creation and Original State of Man The confession begins by affirming the creation and original state of man: “God created man upright and perfect; gave him a righteous law, which had been unto life had he kept it, and threatened death upon the breach thereof; yet he did not long abide in this honor.” 1. **Upright and Perfect Creation**: Man was created upright and perfect. This emphasizes the goodness of God's creation and the original righteousness and holiness of humanity. Adam and Eve were made in the image of God, reflecting His character and designed for fellowship with Him. 2. **The Righteous Law**: God gave humanity a righteous law, which would lead to life if kept. This law was not arbitrary but a reflection of God’s own righteous character. It established the terms of the covenant of works, whereby Adam’s obedience would result in life and blessing. 3. **The Threat of Death**: The law also included a warning of death upon disobedience. This highlights the serious consequences of sin and establishes the principle that the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). 4. **The Honor of Man**: Man’s original state was one of honor and dignity. Adam and Eve enjoyed a privileged position in the Garden of Eden, living in harmony with God, each other, and the creation. The Fall into Sin The confession continues by describing the fall of man: “Our first parents, being seduced by the subtlety and temptation of Satan, sinned in eating the forbidden fruit. This their sin, God was pleased, according to His wise and holy counsel, to permit, having purposed to order it to His own glory.” 1. **The Role of Satan**: The fall of man involved the subtlety and temptation of Satan. The serpent’s deception led Adam and Eve to doubt God’s goodness and truthfulness, prompting them to disobey God’s command. 2. **The Act of Sin**: The specific act of sin was eating the forbidden fruit. This act of disobedience was not merely a dietary choice but a rebellion against God’s authority and a rejection of His word. 3. **God’s Permissive Will**: God permitted the fall according to His wise and holy counsel. This does not mean God caused the sin, but He allowed it as part of His sovereign plan, which He would use to bring about His greater purposes and glory. 4. **The Purpose of Glory**: Even in permitting the fall, God purposed to order it to His own glory. This underscores the truth that God can bring good out of evil and that His ultimate aim is the display of His glory, even through the redemption of a fallen world. The Consequences of the Fall The confession outlines the dire consequences of the fall: “By this sin, they fell from their original righteousness and communion with God, and so became dead in sin, and wholly defiled in all the faculties and parts of soul and body.” 1. **Loss of Original Righteousness**: Adam and Eve fell from their original state of righteousness. The image of God in humanity was marred, and they lost their ability to live in perfect obedience and holiness. 2. **Broken Communion with God**: The fall resulted in a broken relationship with God. Adam and Eve were expelled from the Garden of Eden, symbolizing the loss of direct fellowship with their Creator. 3. **Death in Sin**: The consequence of sin was spiritual death. Adam and Eve became dead in sin, meaning they were separated from the life of God and enslaved to a sinful nature. 4. **Total Depravity**: The fall resulted in total depravity, meaning that every part of the human person—soul and body, mind and will—became wholly defiled. This doctrine emphasizes the pervasive impact of sin on all aspects of human nature. The Inheritance of Sin The confession explains how the consequences of the fall extend to all humanity: “They being the root, and by God’s appointment, standing in the room and stead of all mankind, the guilt of the sin was imputed, and corrupted nature conveyed, to all their posterity descending from them by ordinary generation, being now conceived in sin, and by nature children of wrath, the servants of sin, the subjects of death, and all other miseries, spiritual, temporal, and eternal, unless the Lord Jesus set them free.” 1. **Representation of Humanity**: Adam and Eve stood as the representatives of all humanity. Their sin and its consequences were imputed to their descendants. This doctrine of original sin teaches that all people inherit a sinful nature from Adam. 2. **Imputed Guilt**: The guilt of Adam’s sin is imputed to all his posterity. This means that we are born with a legal guilt before God, deserving of His judgment. 3. **Corrupted Nature**: In addition to imputed guilt, we inherit a corrupted nature. This means that we are born with a predisposition to sin and rebellion against God. 4. **Children of Wrath**: By nature, we are children of wrath. This highlights the reality of God’s righteous judgment against sin and our need for salvation. 5. **Servants of Sin**: We are servants of sin, meaning we are in bondage to sinful desires and unable to free ourselves from its power. 6. **Subjects of Death**: The consequence of sin is death—spiritual, physical, and eternal. This underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for redemption. 7. **Other Miseries**: Sin brings with it a host of miseries, both spiritual and temporal. These include guilt, shame, suffering, and ultimately eternal separation from God unless we are set free by Jesus Christ. The Hope of Redemption While Chapter 6 primarily focuses on the fall and its consequences, it also implicitly points to the hope of redemption in Jesus Christ. The mention of “unless the Lord Jesus set them free” highlights the necessity and the provision of salvation: 1. **The Necessity of Christ**: The fall makes clear the necessity of Christ’s redemptive work. We are hopelessly lost in sin and unable to save ourselves. Only through Jesus can we be set free from sin’s penalty and power. 2. **The Provision of Grace**: God’s plan of redemption, which includes the permission of the fall, also includes the provision of grace. Through Jesus Christ, God offers forgiveness, new life, and restoration to all who believe. 3. **The Promise of Restoration**: The doctrine of the fall sets the stage for the promise of restoration. Just as sin came through one man, Adam, so salvation comes through one man, Jesus Christ (Romans 5:12-21). Implications for the Church Today The doctrine of the fall has significant implications for the church today: 1. **Understanding Human Nature**: A biblical understanding of human nature must include the reality of sin. This guards against overly optimistic views of human potential apart from God’s grace and helps us understand the true depth of our need for salvation. 2. **Preaching the Gospel**: The doctrine of the fall emphasizes the necessity of preaching the gospel. People need to hear the bad news of sin and its consequences to appreciate the good news of Jesus Christ. 3. **Pastoral Care and Counseling**: Recognizing the pervasive impact of sin on all aspects of life helps pastors and counselors address the root issues people face. This includes offering biblical solutions and the hope of transformation through the gospel. 4. **Discipleship and Sanctification**: Understanding our inherited sinfulness underscores the importance of discipleship and sanctification. Believers need to be taught how to live in light of their new identity in Christ and how to grow in holiness through the power of the Holy Spirit. 5. **Humility and Dependence**: The doctrine of the fall fosters humility and dependence on God. We recognize that apart from Christ, we can do nothing (John 15:5), and we continually rely on His grace for our daily walk. Conclusion Chapter 6 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith presents a profound and sobering doctrine of the fall of man, sin, and its consequences. It affirms the original righteousness and dignity of humanity, the tragic reality of sin and its pervasive effects, and the necessity of redemption through Jesus Christ. These truths provide a foundation for understanding the human condition and the glorious hope of the gospel. As we embrace these truths, let us be strengthened in our faith, motivated in our mission, and encouraged in our walk with Christ. May we live with the recognition of our need for God’s grace, the assurance of His provision in Christ, and the hope of ultimate restoration and eternal life in His presence. Divine Providence: Key Lessons from Chapter 5 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith
In an age where the sovereignty of God is often misunderstood or outright rejected, the doctrine of divine providence offers profound assurance and comfort. Chapter 5 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith, titled "Of Divine Providence," explores the intricate and sovereign control of God over all creation. This chapter affirms that God not only created the universe but also continuously upholds, governs, and directs everything according to His perfect will and for His glory. Let us delve into the key lessons of this chapter, drawing out the deep theological truths it presents and their vital implications for our lives and our churches today. The Definition and Scope of Divine Providence The confession begins with a comprehensive definition of divine providence: “God the good Creator of all things, in His infinite power and wisdom, doth uphold, direct, dispose, and govern all creatures and things, from the greatest even to the least, by His most wise and holy providence, to the end for which they were created, according unto His infallible foreknowledge, and the free and immutable counsel of His own will; to the praise of the glory of His wisdom, power, justice, infinite goodness, and mercy.” Several key points emerge from this definition: 1. **Upholding and Sustaining**: God's providence means that He continuously upholds and sustains all things. The universe is not a self-sustaining machine; it is dependent on the ongoing will and power of God. 2. **Directing and Disposing**: God directs and disposes all things according to His purposes. This includes the grand movements of history and the smallest details of our lives. Nothing happens by chance or outside of His sovereign will. 3. **Governance**: God governs all creatures and things, ensuring that His purposes are fulfilled. His governance is characterized by wisdom, power, justice, goodness, and mercy. 4. **Foreknowledge and Counsel**: God's providence operates according to His infallible foreknowledge and the free and immutable counsel of His will. He knows all things and has decreed all that comes to pass. 5. **Purpose and Glory**: The ultimate purpose of God's providence is the praise of His glory. All things are directed towards the manifestation of His wisdom, power, justice, goodness, and mercy. The Means of Providence The confession acknowledges that God often uses secondary causes or means to accomplish His purposes: “Although in relation to the foreknowledge and decree of God, the first cause, all things come to pass immutably and infallibly; yet, by the same providence, He ordereth them to fall out according to the nature of second causes, either necessarily, freely, or contingently.” This statement highlights several important aspects of how God’s providence works: 1. **First and Second Causes**: God is the first cause of all things, but He often uses secondary causes to accomplish His purposes. These secondary causes can operate necessarily (like natural laws), freely (like human choices), or contingently (like chance events). 2. **Compatibility with Human Freedom**: God’s providence does not negate human freedom and responsibility. Rather, it works through and alongside our free choices, ensuring that His purposes are fulfilled without violating our moral agency. 3. **The Mystery of Providence**: There is a mystery to how God’s providence operates through secondary causes. We cannot fully comprehend how God’s sovereign will interacts with our choices and the events of the world, but we can trust that He is in control. God’s Providential Care for His Creation The confession affirms that God’s providence extends to all aspects of creation: “God, in His ordinary providence, maketh use of means; yet is free to work without, above, and against them at His pleasure.” 1. **Use of Ordinary Means**: God usually works through ordinary means, such as natural laws, human actions, and everyday events. This regularity allows us to understand and interact with the world in meaningful ways. 2. **Supernatural Intervention**: God is also free to work without, above, and against ordinary means. This includes miracles, where God directly intervenes in the natural order, demonstrating His sovereign power and authority. 3. **Care for All Creatures**: God’s providence encompasses all creatures, from the greatest to the least. He cares for the birds of the air and the flowers of the field, and He numbers the hairs on our heads (Matthew 6:26-30; 10:30). This assures us of His detailed care and concern for every aspect of our lives. The Relationship Between Providence and Evil One of the most challenging aspects of divine providence is its relationship to evil. The confession addresses this by affirming God’s sovereignty over all events, including those involving evil, while maintaining His holiness and goodness: “The almighty power, unsearchable wisdom, and infinite goodness of God so far manifest themselves in His providence, that it extendeth itself even to the first fall, and all other sinful actions both of angels and men; and that not by a bare permission, which also He most wisely and powerfully boundeth, and otherwise ordereth and governeth, in a manifold dispensation to His own holy ends; yet so, as the sinfulness of their acts proceedeth only from the creatures, and not from God, who, being most holy and righteous, neither is nor can be the author or approver of sin.” 1. **Sovereignty Over Evil**: God’s providence extends to all events, including those involving evil. He governs and orders these events according to His holy and wise purposes. 2. **Holy and Righteous God**: God is not the author or approver of sin. The sinfulness of evil actions proceeds from the creatures, not from God. He remains holy and righteous in all His ways. 3. **Wise and Good Purposes**: God uses even evil actions to accomplish His wise and good purposes. This includes the ultimate demonstration of His glory, justice, and mercy. A prime example of this is the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, where the greatest evil was used to achieve the greatest good. The Assurance and Comfort of Providence The doctrine of divine providence provides profound assurance and comfort for believers: “As the providence of God doth in general reach to all creatures, so after a special manner it taketh care of His church, and disposeth all things to the good thereof.” 1. **God’s Care for His Church**: God’s providence takes special care of His church. He disposes all things for the good of His people (Romans 8:28). This assures us that God is working all things for our ultimate benefit, even when we cannot see or understand His purposes. 2. **Confidence in God’s Plan**: Understanding God’s providence gives us confidence that He is in control, even in the midst of trials and uncertainties. We can trust that His plans are perfect and that He will bring them to completion. 3. **Peace in Adversity**: The knowledge of God’s providence brings peace in the face of adversity. We can rest in the assurance that God is with us, sustaining us, and using our circumstances for His glory and our good. The Application of Divine Providence The doctrine of divine providence has significant implications for how we live our lives and engage in ministry: 1. **Trust in God’s Sovereignty**: We are called to trust in God’s sovereign control over all things. This trust should lead us to prayer, seeking God’s guidance and help in every situation, knowing that He is able to direct and dispose all things according to His will. 2. **Contentment and Patience**: Recognizing God’s providence encourages contentment and patience. We can accept our circumstances, knowing that they are part of God’s wise and good plan. This helps us avoid anxiety and rest in God’s provision. 3. **Responsibility and Stewardship**: While God is sovereign, we are still responsible for our actions. We are called to be faithful stewards of the opportunities and resources God has given us, working diligently and wisely for His glory. 4. **Evangelism and Discipleship**: The doctrine of providence motivates us in evangelism and discipleship. We know that God uses means, including our efforts, to accomplish His purposes. This gives us confidence to share the gospel and disciple others, trusting that God is at work. 5. **Hope and Perseverance**: Understanding providence gives us hope and perseverance. We can endure trials with the assurance that God is using them for our growth and His glory. We can also look forward with hope, knowing that God’s purposes will ultimately prevail. Conclusion Chapter 5 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith presents a profound and comprehensive doctrine of divine providence. It affirms God’s sovereign control over all things, His wise and good purposes, and His special care for His church. These truths provide a foundation for our faith, offering assurance, comfort, and motivation for faithful living and ministry. As we embrace these truths, let us be strengthened in our trust in God’s sovereignty, encouraged in our contentment and patience, motivated in our responsibility and stewardship, and filled with hope and perseverance. May we live with the assurance that our lives are in the hands of a sovereign and loving God, who is working all things according to the counsel of His will, for His glory and our good. In an age where the origins of the universe are often explained away by naturalistic theories and human speculation, Chapter 4 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith provides a robust and biblical affirmation of the doctrine of creation. Titled "Of Creation," this chapter declares that the universe and everything within it were created by God out of nothing, by the word of His power, and for His own glory. Let us delve into the key lessons of this chapter, drawing out the deep theological truths it presents and their vital implications for our understanding of God, the world, and our place within it.
The Divine Act of Creation The confession begins with a sweeping declaration of God's creative work: “In the beginning, it pleased God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, for the manifestation of the glory of His eternal power, wisdom, and goodness, to create or make the world, and all things therein, whether visible or invisible, in the space of six days, and all very good.” This statement highlights several crucial aspects of the doctrine of creation: 1. **Triune Act of Creation**: Creation is the work of the triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. All three persons of the Trinity were actively involved in the act of creation. This underscores the unity and diversity within the Godhead, and it affirms the shared purpose and power of the Trinity in bringing the universe into existence. 2. **Creation for God’s Glory**: The ultimate purpose of creation is the manifestation of God’s glory. The universe is a theater for displaying God’s eternal power, wisdom, and goodness. Every part of creation, from the vast galaxies to the smallest particles, reveals the greatness of the Creator. 3. **Ex Nihilo Creation**: God created the world out of nothing (ex nihilo). He did not fashion the universe from pre-existing materials; rather, He spoke it into existence by His powerful word. This underscores the absolute sovereignty and creative power of God. 4. **The Six-Day Creation**: The confession affirms that God created the world in the space of six days. This literal six-day creation is significant, as it reflects the pattern of work and rest that God established for humanity. 5. **The Goodness of Creation**: Everything God made was "very good." This affirms the original perfection and goodness of creation, reflecting God’s own nature and purposes. The Creation of Humanity The confession goes on to detail the creation of humanity: “After God had made all other creatures, He created man, male and female, with reasonable and immortal souls, rendering them fit unto that life to God for which they were created; being made after the image of God, in knowledge, righteousness, and true holiness; having the law of God written in their hearts, and power to fulfill it; and yet under a possibility of transgressing, being left to the liberty of their own will, which was subject to change.” Several key points emerge from this passage: 1. **Distinct Creation of Humanity**: Humanity was created last, as the pinnacle of God’s creative work. Unlike the rest of creation, humans were made in the image of God, reflecting His nature and attributes in unique ways. 2. **Male and Female**: God created humanity as male and female, establishing the foundational distinction and complementarity of the sexes. This affirms the goodness and purpose of gender as part of God’s design. 3. **Image of God**: Being made in the image of God means that humans possess rational and immortal souls, capable of knowledge, righteousness, and holiness. This sets humans apart from the rest of creation and establishes their unique role and responsibility. 4. **Moral Capacity and Responsibility**: Humans were created with the law of God written on their hearts and the ability to fulfill it. They were morally responsible beings, capable of choosing obedience or disobedience. 5. **Liberty and Potential for Transgression**: Humanity was created with free will, including the possibility of sinning. This free will reflects the moral agency and responsibility that God bestowed upon humanity. The Purpose of Creation The confession emphasizes that the purpose of creation is to glorify God. This purpose has profound implications for our understanding of the world and our place within it: 1. **God’s Sovereign Rule**: Since God is the Creator, He is also the rightful ruler of all creation. Everything belongs to Him and exists for His purposes. This affirms God’s sovereignty over the entire universe and our obligation to submit to His lordship. 2. **Creation as Revelation**: Creation reveals the glory of God. The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims His handiwork (Psalm 19:1). The natural world is a testament to God’s power, wisdom, and goodness, inviting us to worship Him as the Creator. 3. **Human Stewardship**: Being made in the image of God means that humans have a unique role as stewards of creation. We are called to cultivate, care for, and govern the earth in ways that reflect God’s character and purposes. This stewardship is an act of worship and obedience to the Creator. The Goodness and Fall of Creation The confession acknowledges the original goodness of creation, but it also implicitly sets the stage for the understanding of the Fall, which will be addressed in later chapters. The original goodness of creation underscores the tragedy of sin and the hope of redemption: 1. **Original Perfection**: The world God created was perfect and free from sin. This original state reflects God’s intention for creation and the harmony that existed between God, humanity, and the rest of creation. 2. **The Tragedy of Sin**: The possibility of transgression indicates that the goodness of creation was contingent upon human obedience. The eventual fall of humanity into sin marred this original goodness, bringing corruption and brokenness into the world. 3. **Hope of Redemption**: The goodness of creation also points forward to the hope of redemption. God’s purposes in creation were not thwarted by sin; rather, they include a plan for restoration and renewal through Jesus Christ. Implications for the Church Today The doctrine of creation as outlined in Chapter 4 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith has significant implications for the church today: 1. **Affirmation of Biblical Authority**: Upholding the doctrine of creation affirms the authority and reliability of Scripture. It counters naturalistic and evolutionary theories that deny the biblical account of creation, reinforcing our commitment to the truth of God’s Word. 2. **Worship of the Creator**: Recognizing God as the Creator should lead us to worship Him with awe and reverence. Our worship services should reflect the majesty and greatness of God, who made all things for His glory. 3. **Human Dignity and Worth**: Being made in the image of God gives every human being inherent dignity and worth. This has profound implications for how we treat others, from issues of justice and equality to the sanctity of life. 4. **Stewardship of Creation**: The doctrine of creation calls us to responsible stewardship of the environment. We are entrusted with the care of God’s creation, and we should seek to preserve and protect it for future generations. 5. **Gospel Proclamation**: Understanding creation helps us articulate the gospel more clearly. The story of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration provides a framework for sharing the good news of Jesus Christ, who came to redeem and restore all things. Conclusion Chapter 4 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith presents a profound and comprehensive doctrine of creation. It affirms the triune God as the Creator of all things, the purpose of creation for God’s glory, the unique role of humanity made in God’s image, and the original goodness of creation. These truths provide a foundation for our faith, our worship, and our mission in the world. As we embrace these truths, let us be strengthened in our faith, inspired in our worship, and motivated in our mission. May we live as faithful stewards of God’s creation, proclaiming the glory of the Creator and the hope of redemption through Jesus Christ, our Lord. In an age marked by uncertainty and shifting sands, the decree of God stands as an unshakable foundation for the believer. Chapter 3 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith, titled "Of God’s Decree," delves into the profound mystery of God's sovereign will and purposes. Here we find a robust declaration of God's eternal plan, meticulously crafted before the foundation of the world and executed with perfect wisdom and justice. Let us explore the key lessons of this chapter, drawing out the deep theological truths it presents and their vital implications for our lives and our churches today. The Nature of God’s Decree The confession begins with a sweeping statement about the nature of God’s decree: “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 come to pass.” This declaration immediately sets the tone, emphasizing the sovereignty and freedom of God. God's decrees are not contingent upon any external factor. He did not consult with anyone or anything outside of Himself. His plans are the result of His own wisdom and counsel, executed freely and without compulsion. This affirms that God is entirely self-sufficient and independent, a truth that should evoke both awe and humility in us. It reminds us that our lives and the course of history are not determined by chance or fate, but by the deliberate and purposeful will of a sovereign God. The Extent of God’s Decree The confession makes it clear that God's decree encompasses “all things whatsoever come to pass.” This includes every detail of history, from the grand movements of nations to the smallest events in our daily lives. Nothing is outside the scope of God’s sovereign will. This comprehensive nature of God's decree assures us that He is in control of all things, and nothing happens outside His divine plan. Yet, it is crucial to understand that this does not make God the author of sin. The confession is careful to distinguish between God's decree and human responsibility: “yet so as thereby is God neither the author of sin nor hath fellowship with any therein.” God ordains all that comes to pass, yet He remains holy and righteous, not complicit in the sinfulness of His creatures. This is a mystery that we must accept with humility, recognizing that our finite minds cannot fully comprehend the ways of an infinite God. The Purpose of God’s Decree The confession highlights that the ultimate purpose of God’s decree is His own glory: “by the decree of God, for the manifestation of His glory.” Everything God has ordained is ultimately for the display of His glory. This is the end goal of all creation and history—to reveal the majesty, wisdom, justice, and grace of God. This understanding shifts our perspective. It reminds us that our lives are part of a grand, divine narrative that is far greater than our personal stories. We exist for God's glory, and our chief end is to glorify Him and enjoy Him forever. This purpose gives meaning to every aspect of our lives, from our daily work to our acts of worship. Election and Predestination A significant portion of Chapter 3 is dedicated to the doctrines of election and predestination. These doctrines can be challenging, yet they are deeply rooted in Scripture and central to the confession's teaching on God's decree. The confession states: “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.” Election is the doctrine that God, in His sovereignty, chose certain individuals for salvation before the foundation of the world. This choice is not based on any foreseen merit or action on their part but solely on His grace and good pleasure. This truth is profoundly humbling, reminding us that our salvation is entirely a work of God's grace, not something we have earned or deserved. The Certainty and Comfort of God’s Decree The confession affirms that God's decree is unchangeable: “His decree is unchangeable and without repentance.” This gives believers great comfort and assurance. In a world where so much is uncertain and changeable, we can rest in the certainty of God's eternal plan. His purposes will stand, and nothing can thwart His will. This assurance extends to our salvation. Because our election is part of God's unchangeable decree, we can have confidence that He will bring to completion the good work He has begun in us (Philippians 1:6). This gives us hope and stability, even in the midst of trials and uncertainties. The Means of God’s Decree The confession also addresses the means by which God’s decree is accomplished: “as He hath appointed the elect unto glory, so hath He, by the eternal and most free purpose of His will, foreordained all the means thereunto.” God not only ordains the end but also the means. This includes the preaching of the gospel, the work of the Holy Spirit, and the response of faith and repentance by individuals. This understanding reinforces the importance of evangelism and discipleship. God has ordained the means by which His elect will come to faith, and He uses His people to proclaim the gospel and make disciples. Our efforts in ministry are part of God's sovereign plan, giving us both responsibility and encouragement in our work. The Balance of Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility One of the profound mysteries in Scripture is the balance between God's sovereignty and human responsibility. The confession maintains this balance, acknowledging that God's decree does not negate human freedom and responsibility. It states: “neither is violence offered to the will of the creature, nor is the liberty or contingency of second causes taken away, but rather established.” This means that while God is sovereign, we are still responsible for our actions. Our choices matter, and we are accountable for them. This tension is not something we can fully resolve, but it is a truth we must hold in faith, trusting in the wisdom and goodness of God. The Assurance of God’s Decree The doctrine of God’s decree provides profound assurance for the believer. Knowing that God has ordained all things according to His perfect wisdom and for His glory gives us confidence in His plan, even when we face difficulties and uncertainties. The confession encourages us to rest in God’s sovereignty, finding peace and assurance in His unchanging purposes. Moreover, this assurance is not just for our individual lives but for the church as a whole. God's decree encompasses the entire scope of redemptive history, from creation to consummation. This means that the mission of the church is guaranteed to succeed, and Christ will build His church, and the gates of hell will not prevail against it (Matthew 16:18). Application for the Church Today The lessons from Chapter 3 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith are crucial for the church today. In a world that often denies God's sovereignty and exalts human autonomy, we must reclaim a biblical understanding of God's decree. This has several practical implications: 1. **Confidence in God’s Plan**: We can trust that God’s plan is perfect and unchangeable. This gives us confidence to face the future, knowing that nothing happens outside of His sovereign will. 2. **Humility and Gratitude**: Recognizing that our salvation is entirely a work of God’s grace should humble us and fill us with gratitude. We are chosen not because of anything in us but because of God’s good pleasure. 3. **Motivation for Evangelism**: Knowing that God has ordained the means of salvation, including the preaching of the gospel, should motivate us to evangelize with confidence, knowing that our efforts are part of God’s sovereign plan. 4. **Perseverance in Trials**: Understanding that all things come to pass according to God’s decree can help us persevere in trials, knowing that God is working all things for our good and His glory (Romans 8:28). 5. **Unity in the Church**: A shared understanding of God’s sovereignty can foster unity in the church. We can trust that God is in control, even in difficult circumstances, and work together for His glory. Conclusion Chapter 3 of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith presents a profound and comprehensive doctrine of God’s decree. It emphasizes the sovereignty, wisdom, and goodness of God in ordaining all things for His glory. These truths provide assurance, comfort, and motivation for believers, calling us to trust in God’s unchanging purposes and to live for His glory. As we embrace these truths, may we be strengthened in our faith, emboldened in our witness, and united in our mission. Let us rest in the certainty of God's decree, knowing that He is working all things according to the counsel of His will, for His glory and our good. |