- per, but alwayes to seeke the spirituall grace of the Sacraments.
Doct. 8. A singular effect and signe of the inward baptisme and effectuall grace, is the answer of a good conscience toward God.
For when the Apostle meant to oppose inward Baptisme unto outward, in steed of the inward he puts the answer of a good conscience, as the proper effect thereof, by which it may be perceived and knowne. Now by the answer of a good conscience is meant all that confidence which we have before God of his reconciliation, which chiefely appeares in our prayers, and in a pious confession of the faith, and a holy care of obedience.
Reas. 1. Because then are we properly said to be saved, at least according to our apprehension, when our consciences are freed from the guilt and bondage of sin. 2. Because the peace of a good conscience is part of our glorification. 3. Because such a conscience makes us to goe on constantly in the way of salvation. Vse. This may serve to direct us, to make it our chiefest care to keepe a good conscience toward God. Doct. 9. Such a conscience and our salvation doth in a speciall manner depend upon Christs resurrection.
Reas. 1. Because in the resurrection of Christ, Gods sentence was declared, absolving us in him from all sinne and death. Rom. 4.25. 2. Because Christ being raised from the dead, did powerfully accomplish that, which he merited by his death. Rom. 8.34. 3. Because our consciences are lifted upwards unto Christ sitting in heaven. Vse. This may serve to direct us, to fix the eyes of our faith upon Christ, as he was raised from the dead. Doct. 10. Since the time of Christs resurrection, great is his glory and power in heaven.
This is gathered from the last verse.
Reason. 1. Because the time of his humiliation and emptying of himselfe was finished before.
