Why was it necessary to declare this?
Because "certain Anabaptists" taught the contrary.
What ground had they for this doctrine?
The fact that the Christians in Jerusalem, in the first years of the Church, had for the most part all things in common.
How do you know that we are not required to do the same?
Because St. Peter, in reproving Ananias and Sapphira, expressly recognised their right and title to keep possession of their property, if they thought fit. See Acts v. 4.
Is this right of ours unlimited?
No: "every man ought, of such things as he possessed, liberally to give alms to the poor, according to his ability."
What is meant by giving alms?
Giving money, food, or clothing to those who need.
Prove that this is our duty.
1 Tim. vi. 18.
Article XXXIX.
What is the subject of the thirty-ninth Article?
"A Christian Man's Oath."
What kind of swearing is "forbidden Christian men?"
"Vain and rash Swearing."
By whom is it forbidden?
