IX. What is the use of this doctrine?

The use of this doctrine is, first that all the glory of our salvation may be attributed to God. “What hast thou, that thou didst not receive.” (1 Cor. 4:7.) And secondly, that we may have sure, and certain comfort. This consolation we shall not want, if we do not doubt in reference to the things here taught: and especially if everyone of us be firmly persuaded, that the decree of God concerning the salvation of the elect be wholly unchangeable; and also that he himself is one of the number of the elect, a living member of the invisible church, and that he shall never depart from the communion of the Saints.