Question 48 — What is required of them who desire to join themselves unto the church?

Answer — [1] That they be free from blame and offence in the world;

[2] that they be instructed in the saving truths and mysteries of the gospel;

[3] sound in the faith;

[4] that, the Lord having called them unto faith, repentance, and newness of life by Jesus Christ, they give up themselves to be saved by him, and to obey him in all things; and, therefore,

[5] are willing and ready, through his grace, to walk in subjection to all his commands, and in the observation of all his laws and institutions, notwithstanding any difficulties, oppositions, or persecutions, which they meet withal.

[1] Phil. 1:10, 2:15; 1 Cor. 10:32; 1 Thess. 2:11,12; Tit. 2:10. [2] John 6:45; Acts 26:18; 1 Pet. 2:9; 2 Cor. 4:3,4,6. [3] 1 Tim. 1:19,20; 2 Tim. 4:3,4; Tit. 1:13; Jude 3. [4] Eph. 4:20-24. 52 Cor. 8:5.

The Life and Works of John Owen Vol.15