BAPTISM Discovered Plainly & Faithfully, According to the WORD of GOD. WHEREIN Is set forth the Glorious Pattern of Our Blessed Saviour JESUS Christ, the Pattern of all Believers in his Subjection to Baptism. Together, with the Example of Thousands who were Baptised after they Believed. By JOHN NORCOTT. Late Servant of Jesus Christ, and of his Church. The Third Edition, Corrected by Will. Kiffin, and Rich. Claridge. With an Appendix by another Hand. Jer. 6.4. Ask for the Old and the Good Way, and walk therein, & you shall find rest for your souls. Isa. 30.21. This is the Way, walk in it. 1 Cor. 11.1. Be ye followers of me, as I am of Christ. Mat. 3.20. And when Jesus was Baptised or dipped, he came up out of the Water. Luc. 7.30. But the Pharisees and Lawyers rejected the Counsel of God against themselves, not being Baptised or dipped. Printed at Rotterdam, and now reprinted at London, by the Assigns of Widow Norcott, and Sold by Will. Marshal at the Bible in Newgate-street, 1694. To All that Love the LORD JESUS CHRIST, And His Holy Ordinances in the Truth, Grace, Mercy, and Peace be Multiplied. Dear Beloved! AS the Lord Jesus Christ is most precious to your Souls, his Name being as Ointment poured forth, and His Love better than Wine, Song 1.2, 3. So hath every Truth of his, a due Value and Esteem with you. Whatsoever hath the Divine Impress upon it, ye readily embrace; but not that, which is 〈◊〉 Tradition of Man. Hence it is, that ye are for a Church of Christ's 〈◊〉 Erection, for a Ministry of his own Calling, and for Ordinances of his own Appointing. 'Tis both your Desire and Endeavour to follow Christ fully, and therefore cannot admit of any thing in Doctrine, or Worship, that is not exactly consonant to his revealed will. Ye are so tender of Christ's Honour, which shines in all his Commands, that ye cannot deviate knowingly the least tittle from any one of them. O what an Awe Christ's Authority carries with it! Ye are the sheep that hear his Voice, the servants that do his will, and the People that are obedient in the Day of his Power. Blessed are ye that make his word your Rule, and resolvedly do practise according thereunto! The Author of this Short and Plain Discourse, was a True Lover of our Lord Jesus, and his Holy Appointments, he Steered his whole course, by the Compass of the Word, making Scripture-Precept, or Example, his constant Rule in Matters of Religion: Other men's Opinions or Interpretations were not the Standard by which he went; but through the Assistance of the Holy Spirit, he laboured to find out what the Lord himself had said in his Word. And therefore throughout this Little Book, he still keeps close to the Scriptures, Vouching no Authority for what he delivers, but from thence. What Approbation this Piece hath found, may appear from hence; that since the First Edition of it here in England, it hath been Reprinted in Holland, was also lately Translated into Welsh, and now growing scarce, and much asked for, the Bookseller hath been Advised to give it another Impression. In which there are few material Alterations or Additions, the Author's own Phrase, and Method being generally preserved. The Lord, who is able to give seed to the Sour, and to bless the seed Sown, Prosper this Plain Discourse to every soul that shall read it, which is the hearty Desire of, Yours in the Lord, Will. Kiffin, Rich. Claridge. To his Truly Beloved Friends and Brethren in and about Wapping, who Love our Lord JESUS in Sincerity, Children of one Father, Partakers of the Glorious Spirit of Grace. Beloved Brethren, IT was joseph's Lot to be separated from his Brethren, but God meant it for good; tho' it was not for the present seen, yet in due time it appeared joseph's Dreams were fulfilled; and tho' the Archers shot sorely at him, and grieved him, yet his Bow abode in strength: Oh how good it is to be upright with the Lord! It is one of the sad evils of the Times, Brethren shoot at Brethren: But this will be a Mercy indeed, if all our Aim might 〈◊〉 to enjoy, and be conformable to Christ one part of Conformity to our Lor● Jesus, is Obedience to the Precious Ordinance of Baptism, judging yo● are such as press after Christ you Head, together with a Testimonial of my unfeigned Love to you, I have presented these few Thoughts to your serious Consideration. I have read of Two Loving Friends, who having spent a great part of the day in a matter of Difference between them, could not be reconciled, and so parted; One of them bethinking himself of that Text, Eph. 4.26. ran to the other, saying, The Sun is going down, by which they were both immediately reconciled. My Brethren, our Sun is going down, Eternity is upon us, and shall we not consider the Work we have to do for the Lord? I beseech you be like the Noble Bereans, search whether these things be so; and if you find these things not mine, but the Lords, then give him the glory due to his Name. Beloved, as I have, so I shall yet appeal in the Ears of the Lord of Sabbaoth, like Elijah; Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be seen this day that thou art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant, and that I have done all these things at thy Word, 1 Kings 18.36. Now Lord let Fire come down from Heaven on this Sacrifice, that may drink up all the waters of strife: And that you may all cry, The Lord he is God, the Lord he is God ver. 39 Which is the unfeigned desire of him that is unworthy 〈◊〉 serve you; yet your loving broth in Jesus Christ, John Norcott The Contents of the Book. The Introduction Page 1. CHAP. I. Christ was Baptised in the River of Jordan, P. 2. II. Of the great Commission for Believers Baptism. P. 7. III. Examples. P. 11. iv Baptism is dipping or covering under Water. P. 17. V Proving Water-Baptism to continue till the second coming of Jesus Christ, p. 21. VI That no Measures of Grace or of the Spirit are a sufficient ground to keep any from Water-Baptism. P. 23. VII. Believers Baptism a great Ordinance, P. 25. VIII. Answers to the common Objections, p. 28. IX. Believers Baptism and Infant-Baptism compared. P. 48. X. Plain Scriptures concerning Baptism without any Human Consequence from man's Wisdom P. 4●. XI. Considerations by way of Conclusion, P. 50. An Appendix. P. 57 Baptism Discovered. The Introduction. WHEN thou by reading goest to search out the mind of God, let thy Cry be, Lord anoint mine eyes with eyesalve, that I may see; and if it hath been the day of God's Power with thy soul, I fear not but thou wilt bid Truth welcome, in whatever dress it comes; and more think on what is comprised in the Letter, than be affrighted at the poor Clothing of the Messenger; especially, knowing it comes from one whose Name is the Great God. Therefore in handling this Truth, viz. Believers Baptism, as it was practised by Christ and the Primitive Churches, my great Request to thee, is, That thou wilt read what is said without prejudice: And whatever thou findest according to Truth, receive as that which is more precious than thy Life, and judge of it according to the Holy Scriptures; for when all is said that can be, they 〈◊〉 be Judge in all Controversies of 〈…〉 And as Christ is the Foundation, 1 Cor. 2.11 upon which whoever buildeth, shall never be confounded. I shall therefore take a few Observations concerning Christ his being baptised; and herein you may take notice how exact the Holy Scriptures are, to set down the Circumstances of his Baptism. CHAP. I. Christ was Baptised in the River of Jordan. COncerning the Baptism of Jesus Christ you may read it at large, Mat. 3.13, etc. Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John to be Baptised of him. Every word hath Emphasis (then) before he entered upon his public Ministry, as you see in Mat. 4.17. From that time Jesus began to preach, (cometh) he might have commanded John to have attended him; but in token of his subjection he cometh (from Galilee) many miles, & 'tis likely on foot; every step we take for God is acceptable, and one day shall have a Glorious Reward (to Jordan) where there was a River where Thousands had been Baptised, and was a suitable place for John to dip Christ in as will be seen hereafter. Now I shall take notice of eight things concern- the Baptism of Christ. First, Concerning his Age, 'tis said, Luk. 3.21. Jesus being baptised, ver. 23. began to be about thirty years of Age; here you see that Christ himself was baptised at Grown Years; if any might be baptised in Infancy, why not Christ? Christians be not ashamed, your Captain is gone before you, he was thirty years old when baptised. Christ is not ashamed to call you Brethren, Heb. 2.11. Secondly, Another thing to be observed in the Baptism of Christ, is the Administrator of this holy Ordinance, John, who confesseth of himself he was not worthy to unloose the latchets of his shoes, Mark, 1.7. Now if Christ would receive Baptism from such an unworthy Instrument; never slight the Ordinance, because of the unworthiness of the Administrators, let your eye be on Christ your Example. Thirdly, Note the Repulse, John forbade him, Mat. 3.14. Difficultly in duty must be no excuse; we must take no denial in following God, Strive to enter in at the straight gate, Mat. 7.13. Fourthly, Note, John's Argument, Mat. 3.14. I have need to be baptised of thee, 〈◊〉 comest thou to me? Some will not be baptised but of need; their carnal Argument is, May I not go to Heaven though I be not baptised? Is it of necessity to salvation? Is this like your Lord and Master? Was not he a perfect Saviour? Was not the Spirit poured on him without measure? He had no sin to be washed away, wherefore see your example, he doth it not of need, but of obedience to his Fathers will. Fifthly, Note the excellent Terms he gives to this Ordinance of Baptism. 1. He calls it Righteousness, Matth. 3.15. 'Tis righteous and just that I should be about my Father's business. 2. It is a comely thing, it becomes us: Oh it is a very comely thing in God's Children, to have respect to all the Commandments of God. 3. The Conjunction (us) thee and me, and all my Followers, John 12.26. If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be. 4. A Completion, it is a fulfilling, 2 Cor. 10.4. The weapons of our warfare are not carnal but spiritual, ver. 5. bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, ver. 6. having in readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience shall be fulfilled. Obedience must be fulfilled. 5. The universal Term (all) Baptism is one of the all. Christ reckons it so, Thou canst not walk in all the Commands, if this be omitted, 6. Note, Concerning Christ's Baptism the form of Administration, Mat. 3. And straightway he went up out of the water (straightway) because Baptism is once Dipping; (up) had he not been down, 'twould not have been said he went up; (he went) was not carried in Arms as Infants are, (out) if he went out of the water than he had been in: We never say one goes out of the house when he never was in. So Christ could not be said to come out of the water, had he not been in; (he went up out) had a little water been brought to him in a Basin, he had not been said to go up out (of the water) this water was the River of Jordan: Christ stoops to small things because an Ordinance. 7. Note, Concerning Christ's Baptism, the Father's Acceptance, Mat. 3.16, 17. (the Heavens were opened:) Some of Christ's Followers have found glorious openings of Heaven in Baptism; (the spirit descended) the very same that is promised to Believers in their Baptism, Act. 2.38. Repent and be Baptised every one of you, and you shall receive the Holy Ghost. Obj. But doth every one receive the Holy Ghost that is bapt●●●● Ans. The defect lies not in Baptism, ●●t in Faith and Repentance; without which no Ordinance is effectual: (And lo, a voice from Heaven, This is my beloved Son) Christ as Head was sealed, and in Baptism is held forth the Sonship of his Members (in him I am well pleased) not only in all he hath and doth do, but in this very Act of Baptism, as an Act of Obedience to my glorious Will. I am well pleased, and so is the Lord well pleased in the Act of Obedience, wherein from the heart we obey the form of Doctrine delivered to us, Rom. 6.17. The same Voice the blessed Son of God hath in the Mount, Luk. 9.35. This is my beloved Son; hear him. Hear him in his Commands and Appointments; hear him now in his Baptism: Oh, saith Christ, thus it becometh us; you that have my Father for your Father, you that have my God for your God: Thus it becometh us to be baptised, and to fulfil all righteousness; Oh he is a beloved Son, hear him. 8. Note, How in Christ's Baptism the Trinity doth as it were meet; the Father with a Voice, the Son baptised in Person, the Holy Ghost descends like a Dove: And surely it is one Reason, why Baptism in special is is to be administered in the Name of the Father, Son, & Holy Ghost; because he who doth sincerely believe, and is baptised, the whole Trinity, the Father, Son and Spirit is his portion; and that glorious Union of the Trinity in Christ's Baptism, is in every Believers Baptism commemorated. CHAP. II. Of the great Commission for Believers Baptism. AS you have heard something concerning your great Pattern, the Lord Jesus: so now I shall show something concerning his Command, Mat. 28.19. And I pray note what is said of our Lord Jesus, Act. 1.1. Christ is said both to do & teach; 'tis good for Teachers to imitate their Lord both to do and teach; and ver. 2. He was taken up, after that he through the Spirit had given Commandments, to his Apostles; of which Commandments, this of Believers Baptism is certainly one; and as you see in Mat. 28.18, 19, 20. The great God gave him to be a Commander and Leader to his People, Isa. 55.4. Christ is a Gift as a Commander; Oh what Mercy it is to have such a wise Commander, whose Commandments to Believers are not grievous; in keeping his Commandments there is great reward, Psal. 19.11. Now in this Command there are Eight Things very notable. First, Note whence Christ came, why? He came out of the Grave, A Risen Jesus; And God raised him from the dead, and sent him to bless us, Act. 3.26. Surely this blessed Jesus would not appoint any thing but what is good for his People; he is a blessed Jesus, and he gives blessed Commands; Blessed are they that do his Commandments, that they may have a right to the Tree of Life, and may enter in through the Gates into the City, Rev. 22.14. Secondly, Note, Christ appeared and came to them; now should an Angel appear and command men to be baptised, who would stand against it? But here you have the glorious Son of God in his own Person appearing, and saith, Go teach and baptise. Thirdly, Note what Authority he comes with, Mat. 28.18. All power in Heaven and Earth is given to me; all Power to command both in Heaven and Earth is given to me; all power to dispose of Heaven and Earth, all power to protect. I have Angels and Men at my Command; I am able to protect you, to stand by you, and to be with you, both in the fire and in the water: I have all power, Go therefore, teach and baptise; fear no enemies: Go teach and baptise. Fourthly, Note the Command itself, Mat. 28.19. saith Christ, Go therefore teach and baptise. Christ said but to Legion, Go, Mat. 8.32. and they ran violently, and shall not Believers be as willing People in the day of his power? The Centurion did but say Go, to his servants, and they did go; and he did but say Come, and they came; & he did but say, Do this, and they did it: And shall Christ's servants be worse to him than the Centurion's servants were? 'Tis Christ saith, Go. Go teach and baptise. Fifthly, Note, what is precedent to Baptism: Go teach, there must be teaching; God is a Spirit, and he seeks such to worship him, that worship him in spirit and truth, Joh. 4.24. therefore there must go Teaching before Baptism, or else they will never worship him in spirit and truth. Go teach and baptise. I confess many men do say the word Teach in the Greek, is, Make disciples, and I dare not say against it; for I find it the very practice of Jesus Christ, he did first make Disciples, and then baptised them, Joh. 4.1. Jesus made and baptised more disciples than John; here was first a making Disciples, and then a baptising them; b●● how many poor souls Ignorantly bapti●● those who never were made Disciples but, Christ saith, teach and baptise them. Sixthly, Note, The Extent of the Command, Teach all Nations and baptise them. Go into all Nations, whether it be a hot or a cold Climate, Jews and Gentiles, Male and Female; when you have taught them, then baptise them. Now the middle Wall of Partition is broken down. Now God is no Respecter of Persons, now let none think to boast that they have Abraham for their Father; No, no, go into all Nations, publish the glad tidings of the Gospel to every Creature, Mark 16.15, 16. He that believeth and is baptised, shall be saved; Go, teach all Nations, baptising them; when you have taught them, then baptise them. Seventhly, Note the words of Institution, Mat. 28.19. Baptising them in the Name of the Father, such as receive the Lord Jesus on Gospel-terms, God will be a Father to them, 2 Cor. 6.17, 18. Go give them a Call; come out from amongst unbelievers, etc. and be separate, and I will be a Father to you, and you shall be my sons and daughters: Stand a while, and wonder here you that make nothing of the blessed Ordinance of Baptism; here below things done in the King's Name, carries power; but here's the Great GOD'S Name: Yea, here's the Name of the Mysterious Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, and dost thou think Baptism hath nothing in it, that hath that glorious Name to be adored and admired? Go, baptise them in the glorious Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Eightly, Note the glorious Promise annexed, Go baptise, and I will be with you; Christ is a good Companion, you that love his Company, seek it where he promiseth it; Ask for the old and the good way, and walk therein, and you shall find rest for your souls: Is there any Soul rest short of Christ? No, no, in his presence is fullness of joy: would you have his Presence, do like Zacheus, Get into the way, Believe and be baptised, for he comes this way, (baptise) and I will be with you always to the end of the World, (Amen,) an Amen follows, they are the farewell words of the best Friend, Baptise, I will be with you, Amen. CHAP. III. EXAMPLES. OF many thousands who were baptised in Rivers, all of them Persons who professed, Faith and Repentance; and were of years able to answer for themselves. First Example: Those that Christ said to baptise, Joh. 4.1, 2. it is said, H● made them Disciples, and baptised them First, they are Disciples, then baptised, they are made Disciples, not born Disciples (that is) they are made Disciples by the preaching of God's Word, and then they were baptised. Second Example: You have an Example, Act. 2.41. Then they who gladly received his Word were baptised; the occasion of this you have, ver. 37. They were pricked at the heart, they knew not what to do; the sense of sin lay heavy upon them. The Apostle tells them, That they should repent and be baptised, than they should receive the Holy Ghost; then they who gladly received the Word were baptised. Mercy is sweet to a wounded soul, and such a soul sticks at no duty, now he can be plunged in water at Christ's Command, ver. 41. And the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. Third Example: another Example you have, Act. 8.12. But when they believed Philip, preaching the things concerning the Kingdom of God, and the Name of Jesus, Christ, they were baptised both Men and Women: When they believed, ver. 5. They of Samaria, and for aught we know, some of those whom the Disciples would a little while ago have called for fire from Heaven upon, Luk. 9.52, 54. yet when these believed, they were baptised both Men and Women. Oh, if never so near Hell, yet believe and be baptised, there's Mercy for thee. Fourth Example: You have another Example of the baptising of believers in Act. 8.35. Philip preached unto the Eunuch Jesus, ver. 36. They came to a certain water and the Eunuch said, see, here is water, what doth hinder me to be baptised; and ver. 37. And Philip said, If thou believest with all thy heart, thou mayst: This If, is the If we stand upon; be never so poor, so vile, if God once make thee to believe, than thou mayst be baptised; 'twas not his godly Parents, 'twas not his reading, 'twas not his coming to Jerusalem to worship, 'twas not his willingness to be baptised; but if thou believest thou mayst: saith the Greek, it is lawful; it is according to Christ's Law. ver. 38. They went both down into the water, both Philip and the Eunuch, and he baptised him: Oh behold a Man, the great Treasurer of the Queen of Ethiopia, a Rich Man, an Honourable Man, a Religious Man; a Man, 'tis like, having many Attendants at his Chari●● he stops all, commands all to stand st●●● till he yields obedience to his Lord and M●ster in Water-baptism, he can now g● down into the water for Him, who had come down from Heaven for him; he county it no disgrace to obey Christ by his poor servant Philip: Oh the condescension of truly gracious souls: No Argument works like Love, Therefore if you love me keep my Commandments: Here's going down, and coming up, like the glorious ways of Christ; he first casts down, than he raiseth up; first brings to the Grave, and then saith, Return ye sons of men, ver. 39 And he went on his way rejoicing: Oh what Triumph is in Christ's ways, in keeping, though not for keeping his Commands; there is, as well as shall be great Reward (he went on his way) the Righteous shall hold on in his way, and he that hath clean hands shall be stronger and stronger, Job. 17.9. How many have stuck in their way, wept in their way, drooped in their way, but when baptised, have gone on their way rejoicing; he might have a sad heart, though a rich Treasurer: Riches would not do, Being baptised, he went on his way rejoicing. The Jailor being baptised, rejoiced, believing in God with all his house, Acts 16.33, 34. 5 Example, The next Example we ●ome to, is the Baptising of the famous Apostle Paul, Act 1.22.16. And now why tar●est thou, arise and be baptised, and wash away thy sins; wouldst thou have thy soul filled with joy? wilt thou take Christ for thy Lord? then arise, why tarriest thou, and be baptised: He that appeared to thee in the way when thou wast a Persecutor, and stopped thee from going to Hell, when thou wast running, hath sent me, saith Ananias, Act. 9.15, 17. And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptised, Act. 22.16. Thou hast been a Persecutor, and now I must show thee that thou must be a Preacher, and a Sufferer; as Acts 9.15, 16. And therefore Arise, why tarriest thou? and be baptised: Oh accept of the terms and tenders of Mercy; bid Mercy welcome, but do not put it off a day; why dost thou tarry? dost think thyself unworthy, and therefore tarryest? do not let that hinder, I tell thee from the Lord thou art a chosen Vessel, Act. 9.15. Therefore, arise, why tarriest thou? and be baptised. The Lord is willing to forgive all thy former sins, and to accept of thee on Gospel-terms, and now, why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptised, and wash away thy sins. 6 Example: Another Example of Be●●●●ers Baptism is the Baptism of the Jailor Acts 16.30, 31, 32. He went to bed in hi● sins, and might have awaked in Hell; bu● preventing-Mercy meets him when hi● sword was drawing; and by a Glorious Instrument God cries, Do thyself no harm, there is hope for thee: And he trembling cries, What must I do? That soul that trembles before the Almighty God, will not only cry out what shall I have, but what shall I do? Believe, saith Paul, believe on the Lord Jesus: And to demonstrate his willingness to yield Obedience to the Lord Jesus, and to accept of him on Gospel-terms, he is baptised the same hour of the night, ver. 33. And if you note, ver. 34. all his believed and were baptised. 7. Another Example you have of Lydia, Act. 16.14. a godly woman, a praying woman, God opened her heart to attend his Word by Paul, and being at the River she was baptised. When the heart is shut, how backward are souls to obey Christ? One draw from Christ makes the Soul run, Song 1. 4. The Lord opened her heart, and she was baptised. 8 Example, you have Acts 18.8. Crispus the chief Ruler of the Synagogue believed 〈◊〉 ●he Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing, believed and were baptised; Crispus believed, his house believed, all runs in their believing, and then they were baptised: Thus you have Pattern and Precept; it Command or Example be of any force, here's both. CHAP. iv Baptism is Dipping or Covering under Water. 1. THe Greek Baptizo, to plunge, to overwhelm. Thus Christ was plunged in water, Mat. 3.16. Thus he was plunged or overwhelmed in his suffering, Luk. 12.50. 2. The Dutch Translation reads Mat. 3. In those days came John the Dipper, John 3.23. John was dipping in Aenon, where there was much water, what need much water were it not dipping? 3. They did baptise in Rivers, Mat. 3.6. They came to John, and were baptised in the River of Jordan, John 3.23. John was baptising in Aenon where there was much water; what need it be in a River, and where there was much water? would not a little in a Basin serve to Sprinkle the Face? 4. Baptism signifies the Burial of Christ, Rom. 6.4. Therefore we are buried with him by Baptism, Coloss. 2.12. Buried with him in Baptism. Now we do not reckon a ma● buried, when a little earth is Sprinkled o● his Face; but he is buried when Covered thus you are buried in Baptism. 5. Christ's sufferings are called a Baptism, Luke, 12.50. I have a Baptism to be baptised with, and how am I straitened till it be accomplished? when Christ suffered, he was plunged into pains; did his sufferings lie only on his head or on his forehead? No, no, there was not one part free; he was from head to foot in pain; his head was crowned with piercing Thorns, his hands and feet nailed to the Cross; so stretched out on the Cross, that a man might have told all his bones, Ps. 22.17. There was not one part free, the man hath sinned, body, soul and spirit. Christ was baptised into pains, plunged into sorrow, not any part free, this he calls his Baptism. Thus one baptised is plunged under water, to show how Christ was plunged into sorrow for our sakes. 6. Baptism is a putting on Christ, As many of you as are baptised into Christ have put on Christ, Gal. 3.27. that as a servant wears his Lord's Livery, a Garment which demonstrates him to be a Servant to such a Lord: So in Baptism we put on our Lord's Livery, he clothes from head to foot: Thus by Baptism we put on Christ. 7. When Christ was baptised, he came up out of the water, Mat. 3.16. Was it only a little Water thrown on his Face? Then he had not been in the water; but because he was baptised in the water, therefore being baptised he came up out of the water. Philip and the Eunuch went both down into the water, (and being there in the water) Philip baptised the Eunuch, and when he was baptised he came up out of the water, Act. 8.38, 39 Thus you see the place where they were baptised, was a River; their Action, they went down into the Water; then being in the water, they were baptised; this was where was much water. The end was to show forth Christ's Burial. Now if there be not a Burial under water to show Christ's Burial, the great end of the Ordinance is lost: but we are buried by Baptism. Quest. But why may not Sprinkling with water serve, as well as Covering under water? Is there any more virtue in a great deal of water, than there is in a little water? Answ. Sprinkling may not serve as well as Dipping under water. 1. Because God is a jealous God, & stands upon small things in matters of Worship; 'tis likely Nadah and Abihu thought, if they put fire in the Censer, it might serve, though it were not fire from the Altar; but God calls it strange fire, and therefore he burns them with strange fire, Leu. 10.1, 2. and Moses adds, Ver. 3. This is it that the Lord spoke, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people I will be glorified. God bid Moses speak to the Rock, and Moses smote the Rock, and therefore must die short of Canaan, Num. 20.8, 11, 12. 2. Sprinkling may not serve, because thereby the end of the Ordinance is lost, which is to show the Death, Burial, and Resurrection of Christ, Rom. 6.4. We are buried with him by Baptism, that like as Christ was raised, etc. 3. Sprinkling will not serve, because it is not that God hath appointed. Naaman the Leper did think the waters of Damascus to be of the same virtue with (or better than) the waters of Israel, 2 Kings 5.12. May I not wash in them and be clean? God had appointed him to dip in Jordan, not that there was more virtue in that water; but God did appoint him to dip in Jordan, and he did, and was clean. Dipping is God's Appointment. 4. Sprinkling will not serve, because it is not according to the Pattern. Christ went down into the water. Philip & the Eunuch, went down into the water, Act. 8.38. Heb. 8.5. See thou make all things according to the Pattern. 5. Sprinkling will not serve, because it is high presumption to change God's Ordinances; Is not God wise enough to appoint his own Worship how it shall be performed? Isa. 24.5 The Earth is defiled, because they have changed the Ordinance. 6. Sprinkling will not serve, because Sprinkling is not Baptism; it is not the thing intended by God; Baptism is Dipping or Plunging. Sprinkling is not Baptism, therefore Sprinkling will not serve, Luk. 7.29, 30. God's Council is Baptism or Dipping. CHAP. V Proving Water-Baptism, to continue till the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. THat this may appear that Water-Baptism is to continue, and to be practised by Believers till the second coming of Jesus Christ; take these six Considerations: 1. Consider that Water-Baptism was once commanded, and never yet repealed, and no power can repeal a Command of Christ, but the same power of Christ, by which it was given forth, Jud. ver. 3. Contend for the Faith which was once delivered to the Saints. 2. Consider, that Water-baptism was practised before, and since the Resurrection of Jesus Christ: 1. Before the Resurrection of Christ, Mat. 3.16. Joh. 3.23. & Joh. 4.1, 2. 2. Since the Resurrection of Christ, Act. 2.41. & 8.12, 38. & 10.47, etc. 3. Consider that Water Baptism was commanded after Christ's Resurrection, Mat. 28.19. Go teach all Nations, baptising them. Had Water-Baptism ceased with Christ's death, it had not been commanded and practised after his Resurrection. 4. Consider, that the end of the Ordinance remains as at the Lords Supper; the end of it is to show forth the Lords death till he come; and to do this in remembrance of Christ; as long as we are to remember Christ's death, it is to be done in remembrance of Christ even till his second coming: so Baptism is to show the Death, Burial & Resurrection of Christ, Rom. 6.3, 4, 5. the End remaining, the Ordinance remains till his second coming. 5. Consider, it hath been continued by Christians in all Ages, since Jesus Christ left his Command with the Saints. 6. Consider whether the same Argument that throws down Water-baptism, if granted, will not throw down all Ordinances: for if you grant that when the Spirit is come Baptism ceaseth; may you not as well say, when the Spirit is come? Preaching ceaseth, Prayer ceaseth; but this is by reason of man's corrupt heart: Christ saith, Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; And lo I am with you always, even unto the end of the world, Mat. 28.19, 20. CHAP. VI That no Measures of Grace or of the Spirit are a sufficient Ground to keep any from Water-Baptism. THAT no Measures of Grace or of the Spirit are a sufficient Ground to keep from Baptism, may plainly appear, if you 1. Consider, that Baptism is from Heaven, as you see, Mat. 21.25. Now what should keep from a Heavenly Command? 2. Consider the Lord Jesus had all grace, and the Spirit without Measure; as 〈◊〉 3.34. and yet he was Baptised in 〈◊〉 River of Jordan, as you may see, Mat. ●● 13, 14, 15. Is not Christ a good Patter● for Believers to follow? 3. Consider, where hath God thus limited Baptism to persons, having little Grace or little of the Spirit. Nay, on the Contrary hath not God promised his Spirit that you may keep my Ordinances and do them? Ezek. 11.19, 20. 4. Consider, the Apostle makes receiving the Spirit, an Argument to encourage to Baptism, Acts 10.47. Can any man forbidden water, that these should not be baptised, who have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? Now if you mind, these were so baptised with the Spirit, that they spoke with Tongues and Prophesied; a strange work to Prophesy and speak with Tongues; such a Measure of the Spirit is not in our days, yet he Commanded them to be baptised, ver. 48. CHAP. VII. Believers Baptism a great Ordinance. THE greatness of the Ordinance of Believers Baptism may appear, if you consider these seven Particulars. 1. Consider that Baptism is an Ordinance which hath the great Pattern, the Captain of our Salvation himself did practice it; as you see, Mat. 3.13. Then ●ometh Jesus to be baptised: If any man ●erve me, saith Christ, let him follow me; And where I am there shall my servant be, ●ohn 12.26. Christ is the great Example. 2. Consider the great Name in which Baptism is Administered, Mat. 28.19, 20. Baptise them in the Name of the Father, Son, ●nd Holy Ghost: This Name must not be ●lighted; it is a great Name. 3. Consider Baptisms great business, it ●s called Righteousness: Righteousness is a great thing. Christ calls it a comely thing, Mat. 3.15. Thus it becometh us to fulfil all Righteousness; it is a fulfilling all Righteousness. 4. Consider Baptisms great Commission; ●t is one of the last Conmands of our blessed Saviour after his Resurrection, a 〈◊〉 before his Ascension, as appears, Mat. 28 19, 20. Go Teach and Baptise. 5. Consider Baptisms great Promises Mat. 28.19, 20. Go teach and baptise, a● lo, I am with you; here's the Promise of th● glorious presence of Christ. Then ye have the promise of the Holy Ghost, Repent and be baptised, and you shall receive th● gift of the Holy Ghost, Act. 2.38. You have also the Promise or Assurance of washing away your sins, Act. 22.16 Arise, and be baptised, and wash away th● sins. Again, You shall find the promise of Salvation annexed to Baptism, Mark 16. 1● He that believeth and is baptised, shall ● saved; Christ's Presence, the Holy Ghost'● Pardon of sin, and Salvation; all these a●● great Promises. 6. Consider the Eminency of Baptism every Word of God is pure, but Baptism is called the Council of God, Luk. 7.29, 3● They rejected the Council of God against themselves, not being baptised; is not th● Council of God a great thing? 7. Consider, since Christ hath b●● gone to Heaven, he hath commanded baptism Acts 8.29. the Spirit bid Philip jo● himself to the Chariot, which clearly appears was, that he might preach Christ, and baptise the Eunuch; And when he was baptised, he went away rejoicing: Here's one Call from Heaven. Another Command from Heaven to baptise, after Christ's Ascension, you have in the Lord Jesus' sending Ananias to Paul, Act. 9.19. The Lord called Ananias in a Vision, and sends him to Paul; and when he comes, he saith, Acts 22.16. and now why tarriest thou? arise and be baptised, and wash away thy sins. This Paul tells us were the words of Ananias; here you have another Call from Heaven to baptise. Again you shall find, Act. 10.4, 5. Cornelius hath a Call from Heaven to send for Peter, who should tell him words whereby he should be saved. Peter hath a Call from Heaven to go to Cornelius, ver. 19.20. Go therefore, nothing doubting; here Peter is sent from Heaven, and to speak words whereby Cornelius might be saved; and when he came to Cornelius, you shall find ver. 48. He commanded them to be baptised. Thus you see Baptism was commanded after Christ's Ascension; all which may show Baptism to be a great Ordinance. CHAP. VIII. Answer to the common Objections. SUch is the corruption of man's heart, as he will make Objections against the clearest Truth in the blessed Word of God; and which of the Truths of God, yea, hath not God himself been objected against? but I may say of Baptism, as once He said, These things were not done in a Corner: I only give this Scripture-caution, They have closed their eyes lest they should see and be converted, and I should heal them: Take heed of closing the eyes, and then I am sure thou wilt be willing in the day of God's power; but if in Conscience thou desirest satisfaction, consider the Answers to the following Objections. Object. 1. Some Object where it is said, Mat. 28.19, 20. To the end of the World, that is, to the end of that Age. Answ. 1. To which I Answer, This cannot be the sense of the Text: First, Because Christ bids the Apostles teach them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you, Mat. 28.20. Now do you think that all things the Apostles were to teach them to observe, were only to the end of that Age? Christ commands them to repent, believe, to be holy, to be baptised; and are we to repent, believe and be holy, no longer than to the end of that Age? Secondly, Christ promises his presence to the end of the World, Mat. 28.20. Lo, I am with you to the end of the Word. Now hath Christ promised his Presence but to the end of that Age? this would be a dreadful Doctrine, Josh. 1.5. He hath said, I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee; so that the promise of his Presence is to last in all Ages, as the word may be rendered; I will be with you in Ages, or, to the end of the World; therefore observe, all things to the end of the World. Object. 2. 2. But Water-baptism was John's Baptism. I Answer. Was the Baptism of John from Heaven or of men? John's Baptism was from Heaven, Mat. 21.25. Then further, John was but to prepare Christ's way before him, Luk. 1.76. Thou shalt go before the face of the Lord, to prepare his ways; so that John did but prepare Christ's way: This therefore was Christ's way, not John's way: But further hath not Christ commanded, and the Churches practised Baptism after John's Death, and Christ's Resurrection? Di● not Christ say, Go teach and baptise; and wilt thou say this is John's Baptism? Object. 3. 3. But Circumcision and Uncircumcision availeth nothing, but a New Creature. I Answer. Once Circumcision was something, when the Lord would have killed Moses because of the Circumcision, as Exod. 4.24, 25, 26. and when the Lord said, That whoever was not circumcised, he should be cut off from the people, Gen. 17.14. Now in the Gospel it is nothing, because abolished, Gal. 5.2. If you be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing: But wilt thou say the Council of God is nothing? Baptism is the Council of God, Luk. 7.29, 30. And is this nothing? Baptism is a Command of the Lord Jesus, Mat. 28.19. And is his Command nothing? Object. 4. 4. I am baptised with the Spirit, which is the substance; Water-baptism is but the shadow. I Answer. Thou mayst as well say so of all other Ordinances, they are but shadows; the Supper is but a shadow: Prayer, Hearing and Preaching are but shadows; and then whither wilt thou run? Then further, the Question is not whether it be a shadow; Is it a Command? If a Command, dispute not Christ's Authority lest he be angry. But further, call Water-baptism a shadow, yet consider Christ subjected to it, and who art thou, wilt thou be wiser than Christ? And further, Acts 10.47. They were baptised with the Spirit, and spoke with Tongues, and yet were baptised in water. Remember he that is faithful in the least, is faithful in much. Object. 5. 5. Doth not Baptism come in the room of Circumcision? I Answer. No surely, for there's not any Word of God for such a thing, and thou must not be wise above what is written, 1 Cor. 4.6. And then consider, Circumcision concerned only the Males; but Acts 8.12. When they believed, they were baptised, both Men and Women. Object. 6. 6. But are not very learned Men for Infant Baptism? I Answer. Luke 7.29.30. The Pharisees and Lawyers (the learned men of the times) rejected the Council of God against themselves, not being baptised. Do not say as they said, Which of the Rulers have believed in him? Harken to Christ's Answer, Mat. 11.25. Jesus answered, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of Heaven and Earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them to Babes, And further, If Learning were an Argument in this case, Are there not many Cardinals and Jesuits Learned Men? Object. 7. 7. But are not there very Godly men, Pastors of Churches, that hold Infant-baptism? I Answer You are not to follow an Apostle further than he followeth Christ, 1 Cor. 11.1. Fellow me, as I follow Christ. Again, bring no Examples of good Men against an express word. You have an express word, Acts 8.12. When they believed they were Baptised, both Men & Women. Elias was a good man, he called for fire from Heaven, but we must not do so. Jehosaphat was a good King, but the High Places were not removed; follow no Example against a word, 1 Kings 22.42, 43. Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil. Exod. 23.2. Object. 8. 8. But there's not a word against Baptising Infants? I Answer. Nadab and Abihu were burned with fire, because they did that the Lord commanded not, Leu. 10.2, 3. Again, if you mean by a word, an express word, then where have you a word, Thou shalt not baptise Bells, as you read in the Book of Martyrs they did? Where have you a word, saying, Thou shalt not use Spittle, Cream or Salt in Baptism, as the Roman Catholics do? But you must know, it is enough against Infant-Baptism, it is not commanded. Object. 9 9 But were there not whole Families Baptised? I Answer. That it is expressly said, They all believed, Acts 16.34. He was baptised and all his, ver. 33. He rejoiced, believing in God with all his House, for 34. Crispus the Chief Ruler, believed in God with all his House; and many of the Corinthians believed and were baptised Acts 18.8. Lydia and all her House were baptised, Acts 16.15. Here's no mention of Husband or Children, whether she was a Maid or a Widow; only they are called Brethren, ver. 40. Object. 10. 10▪ Infants were once Church● Members, and we do not find they were cut off. I Answer. That the natural Branches were broken off by their Unbelief; and if they come to believe, they may be grafted in again, but till then they are broken off, Rom. 11.20, 21. Again now in the Gospel, the Axe is laid to the root of the Tree; and every Tree that brings not forth good fruit, is cut down and cast into the fire, Mat. 3.9, 10. Therefore you must not think to say you have Abraham, or a Believer, for your Father; This is the sure Word of God. And thus you may see that the Sadduces were rejected, when they came for Baptism, thinking to say, They had Abraham for their Father, Mat. 3.7, 8, 9 And further, Infants were Members of the National Church of the Jews: But where were they ever Members of a particular Church under the Gospel? When Infants were Members, than Servants that were bought with Money were all Members, Gen. 17.12. Which are not of thy seed: God now in the Gospel seeks such to Worship him, who Worship him in Spirit and in Truth, John 4.23. And further, there was then a middle Wall of Partition; but this middle Wall of Partition is broken down, Eph. 2.14. And now God is no Respecter of Persons, but in every Nation, such as fear him▪ and work Righteousness, are accepted of him, Acts 10.34.35. Object. 11. 11. But is the Privilege of Believers Children, less under the Gospel than it was under the Law? I Answer. What dost thou mean by Privilege? was it a privilege to be under the Law, or is it now a privilege to be under the Gospel? or dost thou mean by privilege to have the Promises which the Apostle tells us of, Rom 9.8. They which are Children of the flesh, are not the Children of Promise; or dost thou mean by Privilege to partake of the visible Ordinance of Circumcision? And is this such a privilege which the Apostle, Acts 15.10. calls a yoke, that neither we nor our Fathers were able to bear, is this the privilege thou meanest? Object. 12. 12. But the Seed was in Covenant? God made a Covenant with Abraham and his Seed. I Answer. What dost thou mean by Covenant? dost thou mean the Covenant that was made on Mount Sinai, or a Covenant of Works? dost thou mean the Covenant of Grace, wherein God promiseth to be their God▪ and dost thou make this Covenant of Grace to be Conditional? And dost thou judge, that Ishmael, Saul, and Jeroboam the son of Nebat, and Ahaz, and all they, were in the Covenant of Grace? or dost thou judge they lost their Interest in the Covenant of Grace, and so indeed make it a Covenant of Works? Therefore consider, God did make a Covenant with Abraham and his natural Seed, to give them the Land of Canaan, Gen. 17.7, 8. but as to the Promise of Life and Salvation, this was made to Abraham and his spiritual Seed, Gal. 3.16. Now to Abraham and his Seed were the Promises made; he saith, not unto Seeds, as of many; but as of one, to thy Seed, which is Christ. If you will believe this Text, there's little difficulty in the Objection, Rom. 9.8. The Children of Promise are counted for the Seed. Object. 13. 13. But they were so far in the Covenant, as to give them a Right to the Ordinance? I Answer. Circumcision was entailed on Abraham and his Seed, and his Servants; but where is Baptism entailed, upon Believers natural Seed? The Priesthood by a Covenant was entailed on the Tribe of Levi and their Seed, as you may read, Josh. 18.7. Num. 25.13. will you now entail the Ministry on Preachers and their natural Seed? But as to the point of Baptism, were there not many that came to be Baptised? and John said, Think not to say you have Abraham for your Father, Mat. 3.9. clearly showing that their Carnal Right was cut off by the Gospel. Now the Axe is laid to the Root of the Tree, every Tree that bringeth not forth good fruit, is hewn down and cast into the fire. And note further, Abraham had a word for to warrant his circumcising his Seed; but where is there a word for Baptising Infants? Object. 14. 14. But Christ said, suffer little Children to come to me, for of such is the Kingdom of Heaven. I Answer. The Text tells you plainly, they were not brought to be baptised, but that Christ might lay his hands on them, and pray for them, Mat. 19.13. Mark 10.16. Here's nothing of Baptism. Object. 15. 15. But 'tis said, Acts 2.39. The Promise is to you and to your Children. I Answer. Do so much justice to thy own Soul ● to read the whole Text; and you sh●● find, that it is said, The Promise is to y●● and to your Children, and to all that are ● far off, even as many as the Lord our G●● shall call: Here you see it is to such as are called. Now if you say this word Call relates not to the Children, but to them that are afar off. I Answer, it must needs relate to the Children and their Parents, and all afar off, because it is the Promise, ver. 16, 17. this is that which is spoken of by Joel the Prophet, I will pour out of my Spirit on all flesh, on your Sons and Daughters, Joel 2.28. on the Remnant whom the Lord shall call, ver. 32. Now if the Promise of the Spirit be to Children, though not called; then either the Promise doth fail; and that's a fearful thing to think; or else all the Children of Believers do partake of this glorious Spirit; but the contrary daily experience shows, that many of Believers Children are Carnal, not having the Spirit; and it is fulfilld only to such, whom the Lord our God shall call Object. 16. 16. But I have been Baptised in my Infancy therefore what need I be Baptised again? I Answer. As one saith of Marriage, It is not the ●ed that makes Marriage, for then fornication is Marriage, but a lawful consent by Covenant, that makes Marriage. So I say of Baptism, it is not Water thrown on the face that makes Baptism; but it is a free consent and subjection to Christ according to the Rule, that makes Baptism; Now when thou wast an Infant thou gavest no consent, thou canst not tell of any such thing but by report; thou knowest not when it was, thou hadst no Faith in the Act. And what ever is not of Faith is sin, so that thou art not yet baptised. Again, consider what defects have been in thy Infant-Baptism? First, there was no Rule to baptise thee while an Infant. Then thou wast not a right subject, for thou oughtest to believe and be baptised: then thou wast only sprinkled, not buried in baptism, as Christ was and hath commanded; Now wilt thou call that baptism which was only a Tradition received from thy Forefathers, when the Lord Jesus did shed his most precious blood to redeem thee from the Tradition of thy Forefathers, 1 Pet. 1.18, 19? Object. 17. 17. But many lay so much stress on Baptism, as makes us more backward to it I Answer. Is there more stress laid by any than Christ? who said they rejected the Councils of God against themselves, not being baptised, Luk. 7.29, 30. And is it not our duty, to contend for the faith once delivered to the Saints? Object. 18. 18. But the Children of Believers are holy, therefore they ought to be baptised. I Answer. As it is said the Children are holy, so it is said the unbelieving Husband is holy, or sanctified by the believing Wife. This Holiness is wholly to the use of Marriage, for the Apostle is in that place, (1 Cor. 7.) speaking of Marriage, and whether those who have believed should live with unbelieving Husbands, or put them away, as 1 Cor. 7.13. So that the Holiness here spoken of, it is wholly to their use; it is said, Zach. 14.20. There shall be Holiness on the Horse's Bells, and every Pot in the Lord's House sh●ll be Holy. Now do you think this was a sufficient warrant to baptise Bells, as you ma● read they did in the Book of Martyrs? 〈…〉 being holy for the use of the By 〈…〉 Sanctified by 〈…〉 ●●ayer, 1 Tim. 3.4 5. And to the Pure, all things are Pure, Tit. 1.15. That is, to their use: Thus Children are holy, and unbelieving Husbands are sanctified to their use; But if you think, Believers Children are inherently holy, doth not your experience tell you the contrary? do not we see good Men have ungodly Children, and bad Men have holy Children? so that they are only holy for their use, they are not born in uncleanness. Object. 19 19 When they were formerly circumcised, Men of years were circumcised; but afterwards Infants were circumcised; so in the Gospel, when Baptism was first administered, Men and Women were baptised, but afterwards Infants were Baptised. I Answer. When God first commanded Circumcision he commanded that it should be administered to Children, Gen. 17.10. every Manchild; but when Christ commanded Baptism, he commanded that persons should be taught, and that they should believe and be baptised; and never gave a Command to baptise Children. Then consider we have the Lives and Acts of the Apostles and Primitive Churches for divers years, and not one Infant baptised. Paul was converted sometime after Christ's Ascension, and was fourteen years in Christ, Cor. 12.2. In these fourteen years sure some Children were born, yet not one baptised that we read of. Object. 20. 20. They were Heathens that were baptised in the Apostles days. I Answer. Was the Lord Jesus a Heathen? he was baptised. The Eunuch a Worshipper of the true God. Cornelius, a man whose Prayers and Alms came to God for a Memorial, were these Heathens? Nay, do not those who baptise Infants, baptise Heathens? Eph. 2.3. We are the Children of wrath by Nature: It is you that plead for the baptising Heathens, we plead for the baptising Believers. Object. 21. 21. But Paul saith, 1 Cor. 1.17. Christ sent me not to baptise but to preach. I Answer. That Paul did baptise, 1 Cor. 1.14, 15. He baptised Crispus and Gaius, and the Household of Stephanas, and divers others. Now what he did, he did by Commission or Presumption; but he did it not by Presumption, therefore he did it by Commission; he was sent to preach. Baptism fell in as a part of his Preaching Office; Philip was chosen a Deacon, yet he baptised the Eunuch, Baptism fell in as part of his work, Acts 8. so that he that is called to be a Preacher, needs no call to baptise, the other falls in as his work. Object. 22. 22. But there were three thousand baptised in one day, how could all these be dipped in one day? they might be sprinkled, but not dipped. I Answer. They might well be dipped, for there were twelve Apostles, and seventy Disciples, as Luke 10.1. that is eighty two; these might well baptise three thousand in a day. CHAP. IX. Believers-Baptism and Infant-Baptism compared. 1. Believers Baptism hath a Command, Mat. 28.19, 20. 1. Infant-Baptism hath not a Command. 2. Believers baptism hath many Examples, Acts 8.12. cap. 2.37, 41, 42, etc. 2. Infant-baptism hath no Example. 3. Believers baptism is from Heaven, Mat. 21.25. 3. Infant-baptism is from Men. 4. Believers baptism is the Council of God, Luk. 7.29.30 4. Infant- baptism hath the Council of Men. 5. Believers baptism hath been Gloriously sealed, Matthew 3. 5. Infant-baptism never was sealed by God. 6. In believers baptism, the person baptised acts faith. 6. But in Infant-baptism, the Infant acts no faith. 7. In believers baptism the person subjects in acts of obedience. 7. But in Infant-baptism the Infant puts forth no Act of Obedience. 8. In believers baptism the person knows when he is baptised. 8. But Infants know not any thing of their baptism. 9 Believers remember when they were baptised. 9 Infants remember not their baptism. 10. Believers are buried with Christ by baptism, Rom. 6.4. 10. Infants are not buried, they are only sprinkled. 11. All believers that are baptised, are in the Covenant of Grace. 11. All Infants baptised are not in a Covenant of grace 12. All believers baptised receive remission of sins, Act 2.37.38. 12. But all Infants baptised do not receive the remission of sins. 13. God hath promised that all that believe and are baptised, shall be saved, Mark 16.16. 13. God hath not promised that all Infants that are baptised shall be saved. 14. Believers rejoice when they are baptised, Act. 8.39. & 16.34. 14. Infants do not rejoice, but usually weep when they are sprinkled. 15. Believers baptism hath the plain Word of GOD, Mat. 28.19. 15. Infant-baptism hath human consequences only. 16. All the World may undeniably affirm, that believers were baptised by the Apostles, Act. 8.12. 16. But all the world cannot affirm that any Infant was baptised by the Apostles. 17. All those who baptise Infants, do confess believers were baptised. 17. But all baptised believers do deny, that Infants were baptised. 18. Believers baptised, do lawfully partake of the Lords Supper. 18. Infants baptised, do not lawfully partake of the Lord 's Supper. 19 All believers baptised, are living stones fit for God's house, 1 Pet. 2.5. 19 But all Infants baptised, the living stones● God's House. 20. Believers baptised, build on Christ by their own faith. 20. But such as baptise Infants, build on another's faith. 21. Such as are baptised on their own Faith, shall never perish, Joh. 10.28. 21. But such as are baptised on another's faith may perish. 22. Believers baptised are converted, and shall never come into condemnation, Joh. 5.24. 22. But Infants baptised are not converted, and many come into condemnation. 23. Believers baptised, are not the Children of wrath, John 3.36. 23. But Infants baptised, Joh. 3.36. may be yet under wrath. 24. Believers baptised do know Christ to be precious, 1 Pet. 2.7. 24. But Infants baptised, do not know Christ to be precious. 25. Believers Love Christ, and keep his Commandments, Joh. 14.15. 25. But Infants baptised do not love Christ and keep his Commandments. 26. Believers baptised, worship God in Spirit, and in truth, & such God seeks to Worship him, Joh. 4.23, 24. 26. But Infants do not know what to Worship. 27. Believers baptism must stand as long as God's Word doth stand, Mat. 5.18. 27. Infant-baptism must fall, because it hath not the Word of God. 28. Believers baptised may repel Satan as Christ did, saying, it is written, They believed and were baptised. 28. But you cannot repel Satan, saying, It is written, Infants were baptised; for it is not written. CHAP. X. Plain Scriptures concerning Baptism without any human consequence from Man's Wisdom. MAT 3.13. Then cometh Jesus to John to be baptised, ver. 15. And Jesus said, Suffer it to be so now, for thus it becometh us to fulfil all Righteousness, ver. 16. And Jesus when he was baptised went up straightway out of the water. Mat. 21.25. The Baptism of John, whence was it, from Heaven or of Men? if we say from Heaven, he will say w●● did ye not believe in him? Luke 20.6. But if we say of men, the people will stone us. Luke 7.29. The Publicans justified God being baptised. Ver. 30. But the Pharisees and Lawyers rejected the Council of God against themselves not being baptised. Mat 28.19. Go teach all Nations, baptising them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Acts 2.38. Repent and be baptised every one of you in the Name of Jesus Christ. Ver. 41. Then they that gladly received his Word were baptised. Mark 16.16. He that believeth and is baptised shall be saved. Acts 8.12. And when they believed they were baptised, both men and women. Ver. 36. And the Eunuch said, here is water, what doth hinder me to be baptised? Ver. 37. And Philip said, if thou believest thou mayst. Ver. 38. And they went both down into the water, both Philip and the Eunuch, and he baptised him. Acts 9.18. Saul arose and was baptised. John 3.22. After these things came Jesus and his disciples into the Land of Judea, ●nd there he tarried and baptised. John 4.1. Jesus made and baptised ●ore disciples than John. Acts 10.47. Can any man forbidden water that these should not be baptised, that have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? Ver. 48. And he commanded them ●o be baptised in the Name of the Lord. Acts. 18.8. And Crispus the chief Ru●er of the Synagogue believed on the Lord with all his House, and many of the Corinthians hearing, believed and were baptised. Acts 22.16. And now why tarriest thou? arise and be baptised, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord. Rom. 6.4. We are buried with him by Baptism. Gal. 3.27. As many as have been baptised into Christ, have put on Christ. 1 Pet. 3.21. The like Figure whereunto baptism doth save us. 1 Cor. 12.13. By one spirit we are all baptised into one body. Acts 16.33. And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes, and was baptised, he and all his straightway. Ver. 34. He believing in God with his House. Luke 3.21. Jesus being baptised, th● Heavens were opened. Ver. 23. And Jesus himself being about thirty years of Age. John 3.23. John was baptising in Aenon near Salim, because there was much water there. CHAP. XI. Considerations by way of Conclusion. 1. COnsider that when souls are ashamed, than God will show them the Ordinances and forms of his House, Ezek. 43 11. The Gospel Church hath its forms. 2. Consider when God gives any soul a new heart, it is to fit him for God's Ordinances, Ezek. 11 19, 20. I will give them a new spirit, and I will take away the heart of stone, and give them a heart of flesh, that they may walk in my Statutes, and keep my Ordinances and do them. 3. Consider what a danger it is to resist an Ordinance of God; read Rom. 13.2. Luke 7.29, 30. They rejected the Council of God, not being baptised 4. Consider what Judgements have attended the changing of God's Ordinances, Isa. 24.1. Behold, the Lord maketh the Earth empty, and turneth it upside down; there's a change, but why, ver. 5. They have changed the Ordinance; when Christ commands to Believe and be baptised; and men baptise Infants who do not believe whether this be a change of the Ordinance, judge ye? 5. Consider, what fell on Nadab and Abihu the sons of Aaron. Leu. 10.1, 2. They offered what the Lord commanded not: it was not forbidden; but that's not enough, 'twas not commanded; Infant-Baptism is not forbidden, but it is what the Lord commanded not. 6. Consider if what thou didst receive in thy Infancy was no Baptism, and thou hast not been baptised since, than thou livest in the neglect of a great Gospel Ordinance: wilt thou call that Obedience which was not thy Act, and had not thy consent, nor thou knowest not of, nor canst remember when it was done, and thou hadst no faith in? and wilt thou call that baptism that was not of thy obedience, but thy Parents will? 7. Consider that the Ordinances must be kept as they were delivered, 1 Cor. 11.2. But Baptism was delivered to Believers and not to Infants. God did indeed deliver Circumcision to Infants, but never d●deliver Baptism to Infants. 8. Consider, that many who have n● been Baptised since they believed, do deny Baptism to their Children: Let m● ask such, if their own Infant-baptism wa● sufficient to them, if they do deny it t● their Children? why do they reckon the own Infant-baptism sufficient?— Ho● long halt ye between two opinions? 9 Consider, that it is without all doubt Believers were Baptised, Acts 8.12. The Baptising of Infants (at the best) is by a doubt; Infant-baptism hath been oft disputed, but when was Believers Baptis● disputed? It is in very words expre●● They believed and were Baptised. Now is not better to go in an undoubted way, the in a dark way? 10. Consider, there are multitudes Examples of Believers Baptism; see pa● 11. of this Book; but there's not one Example of Infant-baptism. 11. Consider if the salvation of thy so didly upon this question, Whether we Believers Baptised, or were Infants bapti●ed? wouldst thou not say, surely Believers? 12. Consider, as Birthright gave a right to Circumcision under the Law, so Birthright gave right to the Priesthood. Now you would entail Baptism without a word to the Believers seed, why then will you not entail the Ministry unto the seed of Ministers? Would it not be strange Logic, to say, the Preachers seed under the Gospel, have less privilege than the Priest's under the Law? 13. Consider, that we are not to think of any above what is written, 1 Cor. 4.6. Now if Infant-baptism be not written as an Ordinance, do not judge it to be an Ordinance. 14. Consider that Christ was faithful in all his House, Heb. 3.5, 6. If it had been his Fathers Will that Infants should have been Baptised, surely he would have been so faithful as to have left us one word in his Blessed Scriptures. 15. Consider, Moses the servant of the Lord did all according to the Pattern shown in the Mount, Exod. 25.40. and shall not the servants of the Lord do all according to the Pattern he hath showed to us in the New Testament? the Pattern left on record is, They believed and were Baptised, Acts 8.12. 16. Consider, whether those who do so depend on their consequences without a plain Text, will grant Papists and others the same consequences, for Altars, Surplices, etc. seeing all is to be done decently; And they say, Surplices are decent, Rails about the Tables are decent, & c? 17. Consider, that seeing the Scripture is so exact, in setting down the several circumstances of Persons Baptised, Acts 16.13, 14. the time, the Sabbath, the place, by a River side; the Custom, Prayer was wont to be made; the Company, Women; the Name, Lydia; the Trade, a Seller of Purple; place of abode, as the City of Thyatira, her Religion, a Worshipper of God; her Action, She heard God's Word; the Lord opened her heart: the Instrument, words spoken by Paul. So Acts 16.27, 28, 29, 30, so many circumstances, but not one word in any place expressed, that ever any Infant was Baptised; why should it be left out, were it Gods Will it should be done? 18. Consider, there is but one Lawgiver who is able to save and to destroy, James 4.12. The Lord is our Judge, The Lord is our Lawgiver, Isa. 33.22. Now where hath this Lord given a Law for Baptising Infants? This one Lawgiver hath not given one Law for the Baptising Infants. 19 Consider, whether Baptising Infants, Godfathers, and Godmothers, the Cross in Baptism, the Promises and Vows made for Children, were not all brought in by Humane Invention, at the same time or on the same Reasons? 20. Consider, whether it be safe to admit of Consequences against an express Rule? Mat. 28.19. Teach and Baptise. 21. Consider, whether those who Baptise Infants, will not have it said to them by the Lord one day? as in Isa. 1.12. Who hath required these things at your hands? 22. Consider, whether any of the Gospel-Ordinances hath so many plain words as Believers Baptisms? 23. Consider, whether being Baptised be not a justifying God, and on thy part thou not being Baptised, dost not reject the Council of God? Luke 7.29, 30. 24. Consider, whether such as hold Infant-baptism do not Preach Baptism to be a Sign of Regeneration, and whether all or any Infant's Baptised are Regenerated? 25. Consider, whether those who have not respect to all God's commands will not one day be ashamed? Psal. 119.6. 26. Consider, whether Abraham durst circumcise his child without a word of Command, then how darest thou Baptise a child without a word? 27. Consider, whether we are not to press after the purity of Ordinances, and whether those Ordinances which have the express Rule, are not most Pure? 28. Consider, whether they and only they shall not have the Well-done at Christ's coming, who have done what he hath commanded, and as he hath commanded? Now I beseech thee to consider what hath been said in this matter; and the glorious God of Truth give thee the Spirit of Truth, which may lead thee into all Truth, and may build thee up, and give thee an inheritance among them that are sanctified? and as in sincerity, with unfeigned love to God and thy soul these things have been written: So the very God and Father of our Lord Jeus, sanctify thee throughout, in body, soul and spirit, and give thee a heart to search whether these things be so. An APPENDIX, containing other Objections of the Paedo-Baptists, with Answers thereunto, By another Hand. Object. 1. 1. Infants of Believers ought to be Baptised, because the Natural Seed of Believers are the Spiritual Seed of Abraham. I Answer. This is contrary to Rom. 9.6, 7, 8. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel; neither because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all Children: but in Isaac shall thy Seed be called; that is, they which are the Children of the Flesh; these are not the Children of God: but the Chilren of the Promise are counted for the Seed. And Gal. 3.7, 26, 29. They which are of Faith, the same are the Children of Abraham. Ye are all the Children of God by Faith in Christ Jesus: And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's Seed, and Heirs according to the Promise. The Sum of the Apostles Argument is, that, the Children of the Flesh, or Abraham's Natural Seed are not the Children of the Promise: but whosoever believe, whether Jew or Gentile, they are Abraham's spiritual seed, and none other. Object. 2. 2. But to Abraham and his Seed were the Promises made, Gal. 3.16. I Answer. The new Covenant promises were made to Abraham and his spiritual seed, that is, Believers; for they are the children of God, and Heirs according to the promise. Therefore saith the Apostle, He said not, and to seeds, as of many, but as of one, and to thy seed, which is Christ, Gal. 3.16. Many Temporal promises were made to all the seed of Abraham, natural and spiritual; but his spiritual seed only, that is, Believers, are entitled to the promises of the new Covenant. For those promises being made to Christ, namely, to Christ first, and then to all that are in Christ, none can have an Interest in them, but as they are considered in him, because he is the great point or centre of the promises, in whom they me●● and are established. Object. 3. 3. But the Infants of Believers are to be baptised, because they have Habitual Faith. I Answer. If by Habitual Faith our Adversaries understand an Infused Habit of Believing, and that all the Infants of Believers have this Infused Habit, then let them produce some Argument either from plain Scripture, good Consequence or rectified Reason for their Opinion. For to tell us of Habitual Faith in Infants, without any manner of Proof, either Scriptural or Philosophical is mere begging of the Question. But if by Habitual Faith they mean a Potentiality in the soul to believe, this will no more qualify their Infants for Baptism, than the Infants of Heathens; because there may be a Potentiality in the one, as well as the other to believe. And seeing it is but a Potentiality they speak of, I demand how they come to know that their Infants have this Power? is it by Revelation, or by Observation? If by Revelation, then surely they have some Text for it? If by Observation, than their Infants do demonstrate it by some Act or other of Believing? but if neither of these ways, than not at all. Further, we may not Baptise Infants upon a mere supposed power of believing, because a bare supposition or Presumption, is a groundless bottom to go upon: For the Scriptures do not where countenance such a practice. We do indeed baptise Grown Persons upon presumption that they are Believers, they making to us a profession of their Faith in Christ, and giving Testimonials of amendment in their Lives; but Infants being not capable of professing Faith in Christ, or testifying of Repentance from D●ad Works, we must not baptise them upon a supposition, that, as Believers Children, they have a potentiality to believe, which others have not. Object. 4. Infants of Believers are capable of having the Seal of the Covenant of Grace, which is Baptism, applied unto them. I Answer. Baptism is no Seal of the Covenant of Grace. Christ is the Great Blessing of the Covenant, and the Holy Spirit Sealeth him to the Souls of the Faithful. In whom after that ye believed, ye were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, Eph. 1.13. And grieve not the holy spirit, whereby ye are sealed to the Day of Redemption, 4.30. And as the Holy Spirit sealeth Christ to the Soul, so Faith the fruit thereof, sealeth the Soul to Christ He that hath received his Testimony, hath set to his Seal that God is true, John 3.33. But granting for Argument sake, that Bapism is a Seal of the Covenant of Grace, how come Infants to be capable of it? Is there any Word of God in the New Testament for the Baptising of them? There is none. How then are they capable of Baptism? Why, the Devisers of Will Worship have created them a Title to it against the Express Revelation of God. FINIS. 〈◊〉 lately Printed, 〈◊〉 Will. Marshal at the Bible i● Newgate-street. MR. Bunyans Works, Printed in Folio, price Bound 14 s. Mr. Knowls his Exposition on the whole Book of the Revelations, price bound 2 s. 6 d. Mr. colin's Vindication of Believers Baptism, price 4 d. How's Spiritual Teaching, price 6 d. Mr. Keeches' Child's Delight, containing a Scripture Catechism, wherein all the chief Principles of Christian Religion are clearly (though briefly) opened, necessary to establish young People in God's Truths, in Opposition to Popery in perilous Times; together with many other things, both pleasant and useful, for the Christian Education of Youth; with Letters to Parents: Adorned with several Copper Cuts, teaching to Spell, Read, and casting Accounts; fitted for the use of Schools, and very useful for all Families, price bound 6 d.