Of Immediate Glorification
A. That God hath provided singular relief for his people that now groan under their sins, and many imperfections: 1 Cor. 13:12. For now we see through a glass darkly; but then face to face: Now I know in part; but then shall I know even as I am known.
Q. 8. What is the third inference?
A. That the heavenly state is infinitely above and beyond whatever we enjoy here; 1 Cor. 2:9. But as it is written, eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
Q. 9. What is the fourth inference?
A. That believers are but at a small distance from the satisfaction of all their desires; Rom. 13:11. For now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.
Q. 10. What is the fifth inference?
A. That the saints should earnestly pursue that perfection, even in this imperfect state; Phil. 3:13, 14. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended; but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth to those things which are before, I press towards the mark, for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Q. 11. What is the sixth inference.
A. That death to the saints is better than life; Phil. 1:21. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
Q. 12. What is the last inference.
A. That faith is absolutely necessary to entitle us to this perfect state.
Of Immediate Glorification
Quest. 1. DO all that die in Christ immediately pass into glory?
A. Yes, they do; Luke 23:43. To day-shalt thou be with me in paradise; Phil. 1:23. Having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ.
Q. 2. What is the first reason for their immediate glorification?
A. Because heaven is prepared and ready for them; Matth. 25:34.
Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.
Q. 3. What is the second reason for it?
A. Because at death they are as ready for heaven as ever they shall be; John 9:4. I must work the work of him that sent me, while it is day; the night cometh, when no man can work.
Q. 4. What is the third reason for it?
A. Because death else could not be gain, as it is, Phil. 1:21. For to me to live is Christ; and to die is gain.
Q. 5. What is the fourth reason for it?
A. Because there is the same reason for all, as for any one: But some are immediately glorified; Luke 23:43. To-day shalt thou be with me in Paradise.
Q. 6. What is the fifth reason for it?
A. Because Christ longs for their coming to him, and they for his enjoyment; and these longings are in vain, if not satisfied; Rev. 22:17,
20. And the Spirit, and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth, say, Come. And let him that is athirst, come: And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely. He which testifieth these things, saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen, Even so come, Lord
Jesus.