1689 Confession of Faith

Paragraph 2 addresses the weighty truth that God has eternally chosen some people to eternal life and passed over others, all for the glory of His grace and justice. This doctrine of election and reprobation is not based on foreseen faith or merit but entirely on God’s sovereign will. Though mysterious, it highlights God’s holiness, wisdom, and mercy. Rather than provoke fear or pride, this truth should humble us and draw us to worship.

Paragraph 1 of Chapter 3 declares that God, from all eternity and according to His perfect wisdom and sovereign will, freely and unchangeably ordained all things that ever come to pass. This doctrine teaches us that nothing happens by chance—everything unfolds under God’s wise decree, though He is not the author of sin. His decree reveals His glory, displays His power, and upholds His justice, wisdom, and goodness. For the believer, this truth brings confidence, not fear.

Paragraph 3 affirms the foundational Christian doctrine of the Trinity: that God is one in essence and three in persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Each Person is fully God, coequal and coeternal, sharing the same divine nature without division. This mystery is not irrational but revealed, and it forms the bedrock of our salvation and worship. The Trinity is not a theological add-on; it is who God is. The Father plans redemption, the Son accomplishes it, and the Spirit appl

Paragraph 2 of Chapter 2 emphasizes that God is entirely self-sufficient, needing nothing outside Himself. He has all life, glory, goodness, and blessedness in and of Himself. He alone is the source and sustainer of all things, and He acts solely for His own glory. While He graciously uses His creatures to display His wisdom and power, He is never dependent upon them. This doctrine gives the believer unshakable comfort: God does not change, weaken, or fail.

Paragraph 1 of Chapter 2 introduces the one true and living God—sovereign, eternal, infinite, and independent in all His being and works. This paragraph helps us understand who God is in Himself: a spiritual, personal, and all-sufficient being who is the fountain of all life and goodness. Though beyond full human comprehension, He has made Himself known through His Word. This glorious vision of God lifts our eyes from ourselves and compels us to worship Him in humility and aw

Paragraphs 7–10 of the 1689 Confession affirm that Scripture is clear, trustworthy, and the final authority in all matters of faith and life. While not every passage is equally easy to understand, the truths necessary for salvation are plainly revealed. God has preserved His Word in the original languages and commands its translation so all may access it. Interpretation must be governed by Scripture itself. Above all, Scripture—not tradition, leaders, or private opinions—is t

How do we know the Bible is truly the Word of God? Can we be certain it is trustworthy and sufficient for salvation, worship, and life?...

Brief explanation of paragraphs 1-3 from Chapter 1 - The Holy Scriptures (1689)

The introduction to the 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith is not a cold or sterile preface. It is a heartfelt plea for...