1689 Confession of Faith Ch. 17, "Of the Perseverance of the Saints," Para. 3
Sam Waldron's Summary: "The central assertion of this qualifying paragraph may be stated as follows: True Christians may and do fall into grievous sins and continue in them for a time. The contents of this paragraph are arranged around this central assertion."
I. The Elect Stumble in their perseverance. A. Peter denied his savior. 1. Temptation of Satan and of the world 2. The prevalence of corruption remaining in him 3. The neglect of the means of his preservation 4. Peter falls into a grievous sin (Matt 26:69-70) B. Peter denied again. 1. Peter continues in his sin (Matt 26:71-74). 2. For a time.
II. The Elect Displease God in their backsliding. A. God meets him who rejoices and does righteousness (Isa 64:5). B. God is angry with those who sins (Isa 64:5). The elect pleads with their Covenant God and Father (Isa 64:9).
III. The Elect have their Graces and Comforts impaired in their backsliding. A. Perseverance asks for a clean heart. B. Perseverance asks for a right spirit. C. Perseverance asks for restored joy (meaning he HAD joy). D. Perseverance needs preserving.
IV. The Elect have hearts hardened and consciences wounded. A. The elect are at times silent (v.3).
V. The Elect hurt others and themselves. A. The sins of the elect cause others to blaspheme. B. The elect suffer for their sins.
VI. Perseverance is continual repentance. A. The elect Renew their repentance (vv. 61-62). B. The elect are preserved by Christ (v.32).1689
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