LORD’S DAY 21
54. What do you believe concerning the “holy catholic church”?
That, out of the whole human race,1Genesis 26:4 from the beginning to the end of the world,2John 10:10 the Son of God,3Ephesians 1:10-13 by His Spirit and Word,4Romans 1:16; Isaiah 59:21; Romans 10:14-17; Ephesians 5:26 gathers, defends, and preserves for Himself to everlasting life a chosen communion5Romans 8:29-30; Matthew 16:18; Ephesians 4:3-6 in the unity of the true faith;6Acts 2:46; Psalm 71:18; 1 Corinthians 11:26; John 10:28-30; 1 Corinthians 1:8-9 and that I am and forever shall remain a living member of this communion.71 John 3:21; 1 John 2:19; Galatians 3:28
55. What do you understand by the “communion of saints”?
First, that believers, one and all, as members of the Lord Jesus Christ, are partakers with Him in all His treasures and gifts;81 John 1:3 second, that each one must feel himself bound to use his gifts readily and cheerfully for the advantage and welfare of other members.91 Corinthians 12:12-13; 12:21; 13:5-6; Philippians 2:4-6; Hebrews 3:14
56. What do you believe concerning the “forgiveness of sins”?
That God, for the sake of Christ’s satisfaction,101 John 2:2 will no more remember my sins, nor the sinful nature with which I have to struggle all my life long;112 Corinthians 5:19, 21; Romans 7:24-25; Psalm 103:3, 10-12; Jeremiah 31:34; Romans 8:1-4 but graciously imputes to me the righteousness of Christ, that I may nevermore come into condemnation.12John 3:18; Ephesians 1:7; Romans 4:7-8; 7:18