Fifth Head of Doctrine — Article 13

Fifth Head of Doctrine — Article 13

_Of the Perseverance of the Saints_

Neither does renewed confidence of persevering produce licentiousness, or a disregard to piety in those who are recovered from backsliding; but it renders them much more careful and solicitous to continue in the ways of the Lord, which he hath ordained, that they who walk therein may maintain an assurance of persevering, lest by abusing his Fatherly kindness, God should turn away his gracious countenance from them, to behold which is to the godly dearer than life; the withdrawing whereof is more bitter than death; and they in consequence hereof should fall into more grievous torments of conscience.