BAPTISM

Discovered plainly and faithfully, according to the W0RD of GOD.

Wherein is set forth the glorious Pattern of our Blessed Saviour Jesus, the Pattern of all Believers

in his subjection to Baptism. Together with the Example of Thousands who were baptized after

they believed.

By JOHN NORC0TT, a Servant of Jesus Christ, and of his Church.

The Second Edition1.

JER. 6. 242. Ask for the old and the good way, and walk therein, and 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. 16. Ende doc Jesus ghe Doope was quamhy testont vanden water.

And when Jesus was dipt, he came up out of the water.

LUC. 7. 203. Maer de Pharizeen, en de gheleerde inder wet vanhem niet ghe Doopt ziinde, hebben teghen henselven de raet Gods versmaet.

But the Pharisees and Lawyers rejected the Counsel of God against themselves, not being dipt.

MAT. 11. 5. I thank thee, O Father, Lord of Heaven and Earth, that thou hast hid these things

from the wise and prudent and hath revealed them to Babes.

LONDON, Printed for the Author, and sold by Ben. Harris at Stationers Arms in Sweetings-Rents in Cornhill, near Royal Exchange. 1675.

1First Edition 1672. A Third Edition was published after Norcott’s death (1675/6). This Third Edition was edited and corrected by William Kiffin and Richard Claridge and published with an Appendix in 1694 ( Ed. ).

2Jeremiah 6:16 ( Ed. ).

3Luke 7:30 ( Ed. ).

4The Book belongs to

The New-England- Library,

Begun to be collected by Thomas Prince,

upon entring Harvard-College, July 6.

1703; and was given by said [Person], to

remain therein for ever.

4This inscription is post-publication and was not part of the original text. It is included because it is in this copy of the scanned text. Other hand written notes found in the scanned copy have not been included.

THE

EPISTLE

DEDICATORY

To the litile Flock, Heirs of the Kingdom, once as sheep going astray, but now returned to the

great Bishop and shepherd of your souls. Eternal Peace through the Mercy of Jesus be

multiplied.

BELOVED,

WHAT I have presented you with, is what once you have heard, and are in the Practice of, And

what I have written I take the great God for my Patron and Protector herein, it being but his will:

which none can deny but such as one day will be found to strive with their Maker; And being

satisfied you are such as love the Truth; I am perswaded you will bid this welcom: because it may

conduce to your further confirmation. Let it not be any trouble to you to be reproached for Christs

sake; it is his Authority we contend for, and he will ere long shew himself the only Potentate; it is

possible your lot may be like that of one called Agrippa, who was imprisoned for wishing Caius Emperour, and was laid in an Iron Chain; but a little after Caius came to be Emperour, and the

first preferred was Agrippa; he took off his Iron Chain, and gave him a gold Chain, link for link, and weight for weight as heavy as his Iron Chain was: It is but a little time, and he will come,

whom you wish to be Emperour, even the Lord Jesus: and be sure, if Cups of cold water shall be

rewarded, obedience to his Truth shall; he shall wipe away all your reproaches, he will let it be

seen whether it be his glory or no we aim at: and if when he puts Actions in the ballance of the

Sanctuary, this be found having weight, and his own stamp, as undoubtedly it will, then be you

chearful, it is not you but he that is reproached; it is not you, but his Truth that is slighted. And

the King will be angry when he comes in to see the Guests.

Therefore as the least Truth is dear to the Children of Truth; so let not the greatest Truth be rested

in, short of a possession of him, who is Truth it self; It is possible, some may say, why do you

begin your publick appearing, to pitch on Baptism, things of greater concernment might have

been more useful. But I take the Example of the Lord by the Prophet, who taking notice of that

one slighted Ordinance ( viz.) The Feast of Tabernacles, Zach. 14. 16, 17. And it shall come to pass, that every one that is left of all the Nations that will not come to Jerusalem to worship the King the Lord of Hosts, and to keep the Feast of Tabernacles, upon them shall be no rain. The

Feast of Tabernacles being an Ordinance, and not used, on them shall be no rain: a poor thing to

cut down boughs and build booths, yet if this be neglected, upon them shall be no rain. Thus I

say, this Ordinance of Baptism, it being an Ordinance neglected, and not practised in Purity,

according to the Pattern in the Mount, I thought good to pitch on. When a Ship is to set sail on the

vast Ocean, a wise Commander looks not only to have good Anchors and good Sails, and brave

Galleries, but looks to have every chink stopp’d, for a small leak unstopped, may sink the ship;

And shall not we, that ere long must set Sail upon the Ocean of Eternity, look to have every chink

stopped. Allow not one known sin, live not in the neglect of one Command, it may be that which

some call Nothing, God will call Rebellion, what will become of them then: Therefore my great

Request from the Lord is, that as you have bin buried with Christ by Baptism, so that you would

walk in newness of life: Oh let not your Conversations give the lie to your Professions; live as a

washed people, and as you see your Calling that not many wise, not many Noble, after the flesh,

are called; but God hath chosen you, who by Nature were as vile as any, and hath put you among

the Children, live as Children of one Father. And in all your Addresses unto his glorious Throne,

think on him who counts it his honour to serve the Lord, and his little Flock, with unfeigned love

to the end,

JO. NORCOTT.

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 Josephs lot to be separated from his Brethren, but God meant it for good, though it was not for the present seen, yet in due time it appeared. Josephs dreams were fulfilled; and though the Archers shot sorely at him, and grieved him, yet his Bowe 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 be more to enjoy and be conformable to

Christ; one part of conformity to our Lord Jesus, is obedience to the precious Ordinance of

Baptism: Judging you to be such as press after Christ your 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 himselfe

of that Text Eph . 4.26. ran to the other, saying, The Sun is gowing 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 Works 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 ; Oh Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be seen this day that thou art God, and that I am thy servant, and that I have done these things at thy Word. 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; which is the unfeined desire of him that is unworthy to serve you; yet your loving Brother in Jesus Christ,

JO. NORCOTT.

The Contents.

Chap. I.

Of the Baptism of Christ.

Chap. II.

Of the great Commission for baptizing Believers.

Chap. III.

Examples of many thousands baptized after Believing.

Chap. IV.

That baptizing is dipping.

Chap. V.

Water Baptism to continue till Christs second coming.

Chap. VI.

That no Measures of Grace is a sufficient Ground to keep any

from Water-Baptism.

Chap. VII.

Believers Baptism a great Ordinance.

Chap. VIII.

Answers to the common Objections.

Chap. IX.

Believers Baptism and Infant-Baptism compared.

Chap. X.

A Recital of those Scriptures speaking of Baptism.

Chap. XI.

Considerations on what hath been said by way of Conclusion.

BAPTISM

Plainly and faithfully

Discovered.

WHEN thou by reading goest to search out the minde of God, let thy Cry be, Lord anoint my eyes

with eye-salve that I may see; and if it hath been the day of Gods Power with thy soul, I fear not but thou wilt bid Truth welcom, in whatever dress it comes, and more think on what is comprised

in the Letter, then 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 what ever you finde according to Truth

receive, as that which is more precious then your lives, and judge of it according to the holy

Scriptures; for when all is said that can be, that must be Judg in all Controversies of Religion.

And as Christ is the Foundation upon which whoever buildeth shall never be confounded; so I

shall therefore take a few Observations concerning Christ his being baptized; and herein you may

take notice how exact the Holy Scriptures are, to set down the circumstances of his Baptism.

CHAP. I.

Christ was baptized in the River of Jordan.

COncerning the Baptism of Jesus Christ, you may read it at large, Mat. 3. 13, &c. Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John to be batptized of him. Every word hath emphasis ( then) before he entred upon his publick 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, and '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 baptized, and was a suitable place for John to dip Christ in, as will be seen hereafter. Now I shall take notice of eight things concerning the Baptism of Christ.

First, concerning his Age, 'tis said Luke 3. 21. Jesus being baptized, ver. 23. began to be about thirty years of Age; here you see that Christ himself was baptized at grown years; if any might be baptized in Infancy, why not Christ? `Christians be not ashamed, your Captain is gone before

you, he was thirty years old when baptized. 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. Difficulty in duty must be no excuse;

we must take no denial in following God, Strive to enter in at the strait gate.

Fourthly, Note John’s Argument, Mat. 3. 14. I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me. Some will not be baptized but of need; their carnal Argument is, May I not go to Heaven

though I be not baptized? 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 termes he gives to this Ordinance of Baptism; 1. He calls it

Righteousness, Mat. 3.15. 'Tis righteous and just that I should be about my Fathers business; 2. It is a comely thing, it becomes us: Oh it is a very comely thing in Gods 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 my servants 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 Christs Baptisme the form of Administration, Mat. 3. and straitway he went up out of the water, (straitway because Baptism is once Dipping ( up) had he not been down,

'twould not have bin said he went up, ( he went) was not carried in Arms as Infants are ( out) if he went out of the water then 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 Bason, he had not been said to go up out ( of the water) this water was the River Jordan. Christ stoops to small things because an Ordinance.

7. Note, concerning Christ Baptism, the Father's Acceptance, Mat. 3. 16,17. ( the Heavens was) opened: some of Christs followers have found glorious openings of Heaven in Baptism ( the Spirit

descended) the very same that is promised to Believers in their Baptism Acts 2. 38. Repent and be Baptized every one of you, and you shall receive the Holy Ghost. Obj. But doth every one receive the Holy Ghost that is baptized? Answ. The defect lies not in Baptism, But in Repentance and Faith; without which no Ordinance is effectual: ( And loe, a Voice from Heaven, This is my

beloved Son) Christ as Head was sealed, and in Baptism God seals 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, Luke 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 baptized, and to fulfil all righteousness; Oh he is a

beloved Son, hear him.

8. Note, how in Christ Baptism the Trinity doth as it were meet; the Father with a Voice, the Son

baptized in Person, the Holy Ghost descends like a Dove: And surely, it is one Reason why

Baptism in special is to be administred in the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost; because

he who is baptized, and doth sincerly believe, the whole Trinity, the Father, Son and Spirit is his

portion; and that glorious Union of the Trinity in Christs 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 shew

you something concerning his Command, Mat. 28. 19. And I pray note what is said of our Lord

Jesus, Acts 1. 1. Christ is said both to do and 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 is 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, Acts 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 of the City, Rev. 22. 14.

Secondly, Note, Christ appeared and came to them; now should an Angel appear and command

men to be baptized, who would stand against it, but here you have the glorious Son of God in his

own Person appearing, and saith, Go teach and baptize.

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 baptize; fear no enemies;

Go teach and baptize.

Fourthly, Note the Command it self, Mat. 28. 19. saith Christ, Go therefore teach and baptize.

Christ said but to Legion, Go, Mat. 8.32, and they run 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; and he did but say, Do this, and they did it: And

shall Christs servants be worse to him then the Centurions servants were: 'tis Christ faith, 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 baptize. I confess many men do say the word Teach in the Greek is, Make disciples,

and I dare not say against it; for I finde it the very practice of Jesus Christ, he did first make

Disciples, and then baptized them, John 4. 1. Jesus made and baptized more disciples then John; here was first a making Disciples, and then a baptizing them; but how many poor souls ignorantly

baptize those who never were made Disciples; but, Christ saith, teach and baptize them.

Sixthly, Note, the Extent of the Command, Teach all Nations and baptize them. Go into all

Nations whether it be a hot or a cold Climat, Jews and Gentiles, Male and Female; when you

have taught them, then baptize 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 baptized, shall be saved; Go teach all Nations, baptizing them; when you have taught them, then baptize them.

Seventhly, Note the words of Institution, Mat. 28.19. baptizing 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. Go

give them a Call; come out from amongst Unbelievers, &c. 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 Kings 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 do’st thou think Baptism hath nothing in it, that hath that glorious

Name to be adored and admired, Go, baptize them in the glorious Name of the Father, Son and

Holy Ghost.

Eightly, Note the glorious Promise annexed, Go baptize, 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 finde rest for your souls; Is there any Soul-rest short of Christ? No, no, in his Presence is fulness of joy; would you have his Presence, do like Zaccheus, Get into the way; Believe and be baptized, for he comes this way ( baptize) and I will be with you always to the end of the world. Amen, an Amen follows, they are the farewel words of the best Friend, Baptize I will be with you. Amen.

CHAP. III.

EXAMPLES

OF many thousands who were baptized in Rivers, all of them persons who professed Repentance

and Faith, and were of years able to answer for themselves.

First Example, Those that Christ is said to baptize, John 4. 1, 2, it is said He made them disciples, and baptized them; first, they are Disciples, then baptized; they are made Disciples, not born

Disciples (that is) they are made Disciples by the preaching of Gods Word, and then they were

baptized.

Second Example, you have an Example, Acts 2. 41. Then they who gladly received his Word were baptized: the occasion of this you have. ver. 37. They were prickt 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 baptized, then they should receive the Holy Ghost; then they who gladly received the Word

were baptized. Mercy is sweet to a wounded soul, and such a soul sticks at no duty, now he can

be plunged in water at Christs Command. ver. 41. And the same day there was added unto them

about three thousand souls.

Third Example; another Example you have, Acts 8. 12. But when they believed Philip, preaching the things concerning the Kingdom of God, and the Name of Jesus, they were baptized Men and

Women: When they believed, ver. 5. they of Samaria, and for ought we know, some of those whom the Disciples would a little while ago have called for fire from Heaven upon, Luke 9. 52,

54. yet when these believed, they were baptized Men and Women. Oh, if never so near Hell, yet

believe and be baptized, there's Mercy for thee.

Fourth Example, you have another Example of the baptizing of believers, in Acts 8. 5. 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 baptized; and ver. 37. And Philip said, If thou believest with all thy heart, thou mayest; This If is the If we stand upon, be never so poor, so vile, if God once make thee to believe, then thou may'st be baptized; 'twas not his godly Parents, 'twas

not his reading, 'twas not his coming to Jerusalem to worship, 'twas not his willingness to be

baptized; but if thou believest thou may’st; saith the Greek, it is lawful: it is according to Christ Law, ver. 38. They went both down into the water, both Philip and the Eunuch, and he baptized 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 Chariot, he stops all,

commands all to stand still, till he yields obedience to his Lord and Master in Water-Baptism; he

can now go down into the water for him, who had come down from Heaven for him; he counts it

no disgrace to obey Christ by his poor servant Philip: Oh the condescension of truly gracious

souls: No Arguments 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, then he raiseth

up; first brings to the Grave, and then saith, Return ye sons of men, ver. 39. And he went on his way rejoycing; Oh what triumph is in Christs ways in keeping as well as 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; how many have

stuck in their way, wept in their way, droopt in their way, but when baptized, have gone on their

way rejoycing; he might have a sad heart, though a rich Treasurer; Riches would not do, being

baptized, he went on his way rejoycing; the Jaylor, being baptized, rejoyced, believing in God

with all his house.

Fifth Example. The next Example we come to, is the baptizing of the famous Apostle Paul, Acts 22. 16. And now why tarriest thou, arise and be baptized, and wash away thy sins; wouldest thou have thy soul filled with joy? wilt thou take Christ for thy Lord? then arise, why tarriest thou, and

be baptized: He that appeared to thee in the way when thou wast a Persecutor, and stopt thee

from going to Hell, when thou wast running, hath sent me, saith Annanias; Act 9. 15. And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, Acts 22. 16. Thou hast been a Persecutor, and now I must shew thee that thou must be a Preacher and a Sufferer; as Acts 9. 15,16. And therefore

Arise, why tarriest thou? and be baptized; oh accept of the termes and tenders of Mercy; bid

Mercy welcome, but do not put it off a day; why dost thou tarry? dost think thy self unworthy,

and therefore tarriest? do not let that hinder, I tell thee from the Lord thou art a chosen vessel,

Acts 9. 15. Therefore arise, why tarriest thou and be baptized; 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

baptized and wash away thy sins.

6. Example; Another Example of Believers Baptism is the Baptism of the Jaylor, Acts 16. 30, 31, 32. He went to bed in his sins, and might have awaked in Hell; but preventing Mercy meets him

when his sword was drawing; and by a glorious Instrument God cries, do thy self 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 baptized the same hour of the night, ver. 33.

And if you note, ver. 34. all his believed and were baptized.

7. Another Example you have of Lydia, Acts 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 baptized, When the

heart is shut, how backward are souls to obey Christ, one draw from Christ makes the soul run,

Son 1 4. The Lord opened her heart, and she was baptized.

8. Example, you have Acts 18.8. Crispus the chief Ruler of the Synagogue believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing, believed and were baptized; Crispus believed, his House believed, all runs in their believing, and then they were baptized. Thus you

have Pattern and Precept; if Command or Example be of any force, here's both.

CHAP. IV.

Baptism is dipping or covering under Water.

1. THe Greek ba,ptizw, to plunge, to overwhelm. Thus Christ was plunged in water, Mat. 165.

Thus he was plunged or overwhelmed in his suffering, Luke 17. 506.

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 baptize in Rivers, Mat. 3. 6. They came to John, and were bapitized in the River of Jordan, John 3.23. John was baptizing 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 Bason serve to sprinkle the face?

4. Baptism signifies the Burial of Christ, Rom. 6. 3. Therefore you are buried with him in

Baptism, Colos. 2. 12. buried with him in Baptism. Now we do not reckon a man buried, when a little earth is sprinkled on his face: but he is bnried when covered, thus you are buried in Baptism.

5. Christs sufferings are called a Baptism, Luke, 15. 507. I have a Baptism to be baptized, and how am I straitned 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 Thornes, 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 baptized into

pains, plunged into sorrow, not any part free, this he calls his Baptism. Thus one baptized is

plunged under water, to shew how Christ was plunged into sorrow for our sakes.

6. Baptism is a putting on Christ, Rom. 13. 14. As many of you as are baptized into Christ have 5Matthew 3:16 ( Ed. ).

6Luke 12:50 ( Ed. ).

7Luke 12:50 ( Ed. ).

put on Christ. So Gal. 3.27. that as a servant wears his Lords livery, a Garment which demonstrates him to be a Servant to such a Lord. Thus in Baptism we put on our Lords livery, the

cloths from head to foot, so we by Baptism put on Christ.

7. When Christ was baptized, he came up out of the water, Mat. 5. 168. Was it only a little water thrown on his face? then he had not been in the water; but because he was baptized in the water,

therefore being baptized he came up out of the water, Acts 8:38. They went both down into the water (and being there in the water) he baptized him, and when he was baptized, he came out of

the water.

8. The Ark was a type that shewed forth Baptism, 1 Pet. 3. 21. Surely the Ark, on which it rained forty days and forty nights, was well wet all over, 'twas under the water, under clouds of water.

9. Israel in the Red Sea, 1 Cor. 10. 1, 2. When in the Sea, and under the Cloud, are said to be baptized, under the Cloud. Thus persons baptized are under water.

Thus you see the place where they were Baptized, was a River; their Action, they went down into

the Water; then being in the Water, they were Baptized; this was where was much Water. The end

was to shew forth Christs Burial. Now if there be not a Burial under water to shew Christs 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 vertue in a great deal of water to wash away sin, 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, and stands upon small things in matters of Worship; 'tis likely

Nadab 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, Lev.

10. 2,3. Moses adds ver. 3. This is that God hath said, I will be sanctified in them that draw nigh unto 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, 11, 12.

2. Sprinkling may not serve, because thereby the end of the Ordinance is lost, which is to shew

the Death, Burial, and Resurrection of Christ, Rom. 6.4. You are buried with him by Baptism, that like as he was raised, &c.

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 vertue with (or better then) 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 vertue in that water; but God did appoint him to dip in Jordan, and he did, and was clean. Dipping is Gods Appointment.

4. Sprinkling will not serve, because it is not according to the Pattern. Christ went down into the

water. Philip and the Eunuch went down into the water. Acts 8. 38. Exod. 25.40. See thou do all things according to the Pattern.

8Matthew 3:16 ( Ed. ).

5. Sprinkling will not serve, because we must keep the Ordinances as they were delivered to us, 1

Cor. 11. 2. Now Baptism was delivered to us in the first Pattern by Dipping and not by

Sprinkling, they went down into the water.

6. Sprinkling will not serve, because it is high presumption to change Gods 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 my Ordinances.

7. 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, Luke 7. 29, 30. Gods Councel 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 now by Believers;

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, Jude.

ver. 3. Contend for the faith which once was delivered to the Saints.

2. Consider, that Water-Baptism was practised before, and since the Resurrection of Jesus Christ;

That Water-Baptism was practised since the Resurrection of Christ, read Acts 8.38. They went both down into the water, both Philip and the Eunuch , and there he baptized him, Acts 10. 47.

Can any man forbid water that these should not be baptized, who have received the Holy Ghost

as well as we; then commanded he them to be baptized. Here is water, and here it is commanded

by an Apostle sent by Christ, Acts 16. 13, 14. Lydia was by a River-side, in which River she was baptized.

3. Consider that Water-Baptism was commanded after Christs Resurrection, Mat. 28. 19. Go

teach all Nations, baptizing them. Had Water-Baptism ceased with Christs 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 shew

forth the Lords death till he come; and to do this in remembrance of Christ; as long as we are to

remember Christs death, it is to be done in remembrance of Christ, even to his second coming; so

Baptism is to shew the Death, Burial and 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 mans corrupt heart: Christ saith, Teach them to observe all things which I have

commanded you; Mat. 28. 19, 20. And I will be with you to the end of the world.

CHAP. VI.

That no Measures of Grace or of the Spirit is a sufficient Ground to keep any from Water-

Baptism

THAT no Measures of Grace or of the Spirit is 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 John 3. 34. and yet he was baptized in the River of Jordan, as you may see, Mat. 3. 13, 14, 15. Is not Christ a good Pattern 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 forbid water, that these should not be baptized, who have received the Holy

Ghost as well as we. Now if you mind, these were so baptized with the Spirit, that they spake

with Tongues and prophesied; a strange work to prophesie and speak with Tongues; such a

Measure of the Spirit is not in our days, yet he commanded them to be baptized ver. 48.

CHAP. VII.

Believers Baptism a great Ordinance.

THe greatness of the Ordinance of Believers Baptism may appear, if you consider these eight

Considerations,

1. Consider that Baptism is an Ordnance which hath the great Pattern, the Captain of our

Salvation himself did practise it; as you see, Mat. 3. 13. Then commeth Jesus to be baptized: If any man serve me, saith Christ, let him follow me; And where I am, there shall my servant be, John 12. 26. Christ is the great Example.

2. Consider the great Name in which Baptism is Administred, Mat. 28. 19, 20. Baptize them in the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost; this Name must not be slighted; it is a great Name.

3. Consider the great Seal that Baptism had. How was the Lord Jesus sealed when he was

baptized, Mat. 3. 17. The Heavens were opened, and a Voice heard, saying, This is my beloved

Son in whom I am well pleased; The Trinity meets in Christs Baptism.

4. Consider Baptism's great Business, it is called Righteousness: Righteousness is a great thing.

Christ calls it a comely thing, Mat. 3. 15. Thus it becometh us to fulfill all Righteousness; it is a fulfilling all Righteousness.

5. Consider Baptism's great Commission; it is one of the last Commands of our blessed Saviour

after his Resurrection, a little before his Ascension, as appears, Mat. 28. 19, 20. Go teach and baptize.

6. Consider Baptism’s great promises, Mat. 28. 19, 20. Go teach and baptize, and I will be with you; here's the Promise of the glorious presence of Christ. Then you have the promise of the Holy Ghost, Repent and be baptized, and you shall receive the Holy Ghost: Acts. 2. 38.

Then you have the Promise or Assurance of washing away your sins, Acts 22.16. Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins.

Then you shall find the promise of Salvation annexed to Baptism, Mark 16. 16. He that believeth and is baptised, shall be saved; Christs Presence, the Holy Ghost, Pardon of sin, and Salvation; all these are great promises.

7. Consider the Eminencie of Baptism; every word of God is pure, but baptism is called the

Councel of God, Luke 7. 29, 30. They rejected the Councel of God against themselves, not being baptized; is not the Councel of God a great thing.

8. Consider, since Christ hath been gone to Heaven, he hath commanded Baptism, Acts 8. 29. the

Spirit bid Philip joyn himself to the Chariot, which clearly appears was, that he might preach

Christ, and baptize the Eunuch, And when he was baptised, he went away rejoycing; Here's one

call from Heaven.

Another Command from Heaven to baptise, even after Christs Ascension; you have the Lord

Jesus sending Ananias to Paul, Acts 9. 199. 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 baptized, and wash away thy sins. This Paul tells us were the words of Ananias; here you have an other Call from Heaven to baptize.

Then again you shall finde, Acts 10. 4, 5. Cornelius hath a Call from Heaven to send for Peter, who should tell him words where-by 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 commands them to be baptized. Thus you see Baptism was commanded after Christs Ascension; all which may shew Baptism to be a great Ordinance.

9Acts 9:10 ( Ed. )

CHAP. VIII.

Answers to the common Objections.

SUCH is the corruption of Mans 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 Gods power; but if in conscience thou desirest satisfaction, consider the

answer 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, was onely to the end of that Age:

Christ commands them to repent, to believe, to be holy, to be baptized; and are we to repent,

believe and be holy, no longer then to the end of that Age. Secondly, Christ promises his

Presence to the end of the World, Mat. 28.20. I will be with you to the end of the World. Now hath Christ Promised his Presence but to the end of that Age, this would be dreadful Doctrine,

John. 1. 510. He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee; so that the Promise of his Presence is to last in all Ages, as the word may be rendred. 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 Christs way before him, Luk. 1. 1611. Thou shalt go before the face of the Lord, to prepare his ways; so that John did but prepare Christs way: This therefore was Christs way, not Johns way: But further, hath not Christ commanded, and the

Churches practised Baptism after John's Death, and Christs Resurrection; did not Christ say, Go Teach and Baptize; and wilt thou say this is John's Baptism.

Object. 3.

3. But Circumcision and uncircumcision availeth nothing, but a new Creature.

10Joshua 1:5. Also, Hebrews 13:5 ( Ed. )

11Luke 1:76 ( Ed.).

Once Circumcision was something, when the Lord would have killed Moses because of the Circumcision as Exod. 4. 1912. and when the Lord said, That whoever was not Circumcised, they should be cut off from the people, Gen. 17. 14. Now in the Gospel it is nothing, because

abolished, Gal. 5. 113. If you be cicumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing; But wilt thou say the Councel of God is nothing? Baptism is the Councel of God, Luke 7. 29. 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 shaddow.

I Answer.

Thou mayst as well say so of all other Ordinances, they are but shaddows; the Supper is but a

shaddow: Prayer, Hearing and Preaching are but shaddows, And then whether wilt thou run?

Then further, the Question is not whether it be a shaddow; Is is a Command? If a Command,

dispute not Christs Authority lest he be angry. But further, call Water-Baptism a shaddow, yet

consider Christ subjected to it, and who art thou, wilt thou be wiser than Christ? And further, Acts 10. 47. They were Baptized with the Spirit, and spake with Tongues, and yet were Baptized 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 Baptized, 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 Councel of God against themselves, not being Baptized. Do not say as they said, which of the Rulers have

believed in him; Hearken to Christs 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?

12Exodus 4:24 ( Ed. ).

13 Galatians 5:2 ( Ed. ).

I Answer.

You are not to follow an Apostle further than he followeth Christ, 1 Cor. 11. 1. Follow 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 baptized, Men and Women. Elias was a good man, he called 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 baptizing Infants?

I Answer.

Nadab and Abihu were burned with fire, because they did that the Lord Commanded not, Lev. 10.

2, 3. Again, if you mean by a word, an express word, then where have you a word, Thou shalt not

baptize Bells, as you read in the Book of Martyrs they did: Where have you a word, saying, Thou shalt not put spittle, cream or salt in Baptism, as the Roman Catholicks do: But you must know, it is enough against Infant-Baptism it is not commanded.

Object. 9.

9. But were there not whole Families baptized?

I Answer.

That it is expresly said, They all believed, Acts 16. 33. He was baptized, and all his. And ver. 34.

They rejoyced, believing in God with all his house, Acts 18. 8. Crispus the chief Ruler, believed in God with all his house; and many of the Corinthians believed and were baptized. Lydia and all her house were baptized: Here's no mention of Husband or Children, whether she was a Maid or a

Widdow; onely they are called Brethren, ver. 4014.

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 graffed in again, but till then they are broken off, Rom. 11. 20, 21. Again now in the

Gospel, the Ax 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. And further, Infants were Members of the National Church of the Jews: 14Acts 16:40 ( Ed. ).

But where were they ever Members of a particular Church under the Gospel: When Infants were Members, then servants that were bought with Money all were Members, Gen. 17.12. Which is

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. 3815.

Object. 11.

11. But is the Priviledge of Believers Children, less under the Gospel than it was under the Law?

I Answer.

What dost thou mean by Priviledge was it a priviledge to be under the Law, or is it now a

priviledge to be under the Gospel? or do’st thou mean by priviledge to have the Promises which

the Apostle tells you of, Rom. 9. 8. They which are Children of the flesh, are not the Children of Promise; or do'st thou mean by Priviledge to partake of the visible Ordinance of Circumcision;

And is this such a Priviledge which the Apostle, Acts 15. 10. calls a yoke, that neither we nor our Fathers were able to bear, is this the Priviledge 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?

a Covenant of Works; dost thou mean a 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; 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 Seed to

give them the Land of Cannan. Gen. 17.7, 8. but as to the Promise of life and salvation, this was made to Abraham and his 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 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.

15Acts 10:35 ( Ed. )

The Priesthood by a Covenant was entailed on the Tribe of Levi and their seed, as you may read, Josh. 1. 8, 716. 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 baptized; and John said,

Think not to say you have Abraham for your Father, Mat. 3. 9. clearly shewing, 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 hewen 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 Baptizing

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 baptized, 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 Promises is to you and to your Children.

I answer.

Do so much justice to thy own soul as to read the whole Text; and you shall finde, that it is said,

The Promises is to you and to your Children, and to all that are afar off, even so many as the

Lord our God 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 poure out of my Spirit on all flesh, on your sons and daughters, Joel 1. 2817. 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 shews, that many of Believers Children are carnal, not

having the Spirit; and it is fulfilled only to such whom the Lord our God shall call.

16. Object.

16. But I have been baptized in my Infancy, therefore what need I be baptized again?

I answer.

As one saith of Marriage, It is not the Bed 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

16Joshua 18:7 ( Ed. ).

17Joel 2:28 ( Ed. ).

in the Act? And whatever is not of Faith is sin, so that thou art not yet baptized. Again we finde, Acts 19. begin. there being a defect in their Baptism, they were baptized again; They were baptized, saying, they should believe in one to come; as ver. 4. whereas Christ was come, therefore they were baptized again, ver. 5. But what defects hath there been in thy Infant-Baptism. First, there was no Rule to baptize thee while an Infant. Then thou wast not a right

subject, for thou ought’st to believe and be baptized: 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 fore-fathers, when the Lord Jesus did shed his most precious blood to

redeem thee from the Tradition of thy fore fathers, 1 Pet. 1. 18, 19.

17. Object.

17. But many lay so much stress on Baptism, as makes us more backward to it.

I answer.

Is there more streis laid by any then by Christ, who said they rejected the Councel of God against

themselves, not being baptized, Luke 7. 29, 30. And is it not our duty to contend for the faith once delivered to the Saints.

18.Object.

18. But the Children of Believers are holy, therefore they ought to be baptized.

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 Horses Bells, and every Pot in the Lords House shall be holy. Now do you think this was a sufficient warrant to

baptize Bells, as you may read they did in the Book of Martyrs. But there is a being holy for the

use of the Believer, as every creature is sanctified by the Word of God and Prayer; And to the

clean all things are clean, 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.

19. Object.

19. When they were formerly circumcised, Men of years were circumcised; but afterwards Infants

were circumcised; so in the Gospel, when Baptism was first administred, Men and Women were

baptized, but afterwards Infants were baptized.

I answer,

When God first commanded Circumcision he commanded that it should be administred to

children, Gen. 17.10. every Man-childe; but when Christ commanded Baptism, he commanded

that persons should be taught, and that they shonld believe and be baptized; and never gave a Command to baptize Children. Then consider we have the Lives and Acts of the Apostles and

primitive Churches for divers years, and not one Infant baptized. Paul was converted sometime

after Christs Ascension, and was fourteen years in Christ, 2 Cor. 12.2. in these fourteen years surely some Children were born, yet not one baptized.

20. Object.

20. These were Heathens that were baptized in the Apostle days.

I answer.

Was the Lord Jesus a Heathen? he was baptized. The Eunuch a Worshipper to the true God,

Cornelius, a man whose Prayers and Almes came to God for a Memorial, were these Heathens:

Nay, do not those who baptize Infants baptize Heathens Eph. 2. 3. We are the children of wrath by Nature: it is you that plead for the baptzing Heathens, we plead for the baptizing Beleivers.

21. Object.

But Paul said, 1 Cor. 1. 17 . Christ sent me not to baptize but to preach.

I answer,

That Paul did baptize, 1 Cor. 1. 14, 15. He baptized Crispus and Gaius, and the Houshold of Stephannu s, 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 baptized the Eunuch,

Baptism fell in as part of his work, Acts 8. so that he that is called to he a Preacher, needs no call to baptize, the other falls in as his work.

22. Object.

But there were three thousand baptized 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 baptize three thousand in a day.

CHAP. IX.

Believers Baptism and Infant-Baptism compared

1. Believers Baptism hath a Command, Matt.

1. Infant Baptism hath not a Command.

28. 19, 20.

2. Believers Baptism hath many Examples,

2. Infant Baptism hath no Example.

Acts 8. 12. cap. 2. 37, 41, 42 &c.

3. Believers Baptism is from Heaven, Mat. 21.

3. Infant-Baptism is from Men.

25.

4. Believers Baptism is the Councel of God,

4. Infant-Baptism hath the Councel of Men.

Luke 7. 29,30.

5. Believers Baptism hath been gloriously

5. Infant-Baptism never was sealed by God.

sealed, Mat. 3.

6. In Believers Baptism the person baptized

6. But in Infant-Baptism, the Infant acts no

acts faith.

faith.

7. In Believers Baptism the person subjects in

7. But in Infant-baptism the Infant puts forth

acts of obedience.

no Act of Obedience.

8. In Believers baptism the Person knows when 8. But Infants know not any thing of their

he is baptized.

baptism.

9. Believers remember when they were

9. Infants remember not their baptism.

baptized.

10. Believers are buried with Christ by baptism, 10. Infants are not buried, they are only

Rom. 6. 3.

sprinkled.

11. All believers that are baptized, are in the

11. All Infants baptized are not in a Covenant

Covenant of grace.

of grace.

12. All believers baptized receive remission of 12. But all Infants baptized do not receive the

sins, Acts 2. 37, 38.

remission of sins.

13. God hath promised that all that believe and 13. God hath not promised that all Infants that

are baptized shall be saved, Mark 16. 16.

are baptized shall be saved.

14. Believers rejoyce when they are baptized,

14. Infants do not rejoyce, but usually weep

Acts 8. 1618.

when they are sprinkled.

15. Believers baptism hath the plain Word of

15. Infant-baptism hath humane

God, Mat. 11. 1919.

consequences20 only.

16. All the world may undeniably affirm that

16. But all the world cannot affirm that any

believers were baptized by the Apostles, Acts 8. Infant was baptized by the Apostles.

12.

18Acts 8:39 ( Ed. ).

19Matthew 28:19 ( Ed. ).

20Consequence. That which follows logically, or can be deduced or inferred; a logical result or inference. †Formerly, the conclusion of a syllogism as opposed to the premisses (obs.). The Oxford English Dictionary Online.

17. All those who baptize Infants, do confess

17. But all that baptized believers do deny that

Believers were baptized.

Infants were baptized.

18. Believers baptized do lawfully partake of

18. Infants baptized, do not lawfully partake of

the Lords Supper.

the Lords Supper.

19. All believers baptized, are believing stones 19. But all Infants baptized are not living

fit for Gods House, 1 Pet. 2.5.

stones fit for Gods House.

20. Believers baptized, build on Christ by their 20. But such as baptize Infants build on

own faith.

anothers faith.

21. Such as are baptized on their own faith,

21. But such as are baptized on anothers faith

shall never perish, John 10. 28.

may perish.

22. Believers baptized are converted, and shall

22. But Infants baptized are not converted,

never come into condemnation, John 5. 24.

and may come into condemnation.

23. Believers baptized are not the Children of

23. But Infants baptized, John 3. 36 . may be

wrath, John 3. 36.

under under wrath.

24. Believers baptized do know Christ to be

24. But Infants baptized, do not know Christ to

precious, 1 Pet. 2. 7.

be precious.

25. Believers love Christ, and keep his

25. But Infants baptized do not love Christ and

Commandments John 14. 15.

keep his Commandments.

26. Believers baptized, worship God in spirit

26. But Infants do not know what to worship.

and in truth, and such God seeks to worship

him, John 4. 23. 24.

27. Believers baptism must stand as long as

27. Infant Baptism must fall, because it hath

Gods Word doth stand, Mat. 5. 18.

not the Word of God.

28. Believers baptized may repel Satan as

28. But you cannot repel Satan, saying, It is

Christ did, saying it is written,

written, Infants were baptized ; for it is not

They believed and were baptized.

written.

CHAP. X.

Plain Scriptures concerning Baptism without any humane consequence from Mans Wisdom.

MAT. 3. 13. Then cometh Jesus to John to be baptized, ver. 15. And Jesus said, Suffer it to be so now, for thus it becometh us to fulfill all Righteousness, ver. 16. And Jesus when he was baptized went up straitway 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 why 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 baptized.

Ver. 30. But the Pharisees and Lawyers rejected the Councel of God against themselves not being baptized.

Mat. 28. 19. Go teach all Nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and

of the Holy Ghost.

Acts 2. 38. Repent and be baptized every one of you in the Name of Jesus Christ.

Acts 2. 41. Then they that gladly received his Word were baptized.

Mark 16. 16. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved.

Acts 8. 12. And when they believed they were baptized, both men and women.

Acts 8. 36 And the Eunuch said, here is water, what doth hinder me to be baptized

Acts 8. 37. And Philip said, if thou believest thou mayst.

Acts 8. 38. And they went both down into the water, both Philip and the Eunuch, and he baptized him.

Acts 9. 18. Saul arose and was baptized.

John 3. 22. After these things came Jesus and his disciples into the Land of Judea, and there he tarried and baptized.

John 4. 1. Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John.

Acts 10. 47. Can any man forbid water that these should not be baptized, that have received the Holy Ghost as well as we.

Acts 10.48. And he commanded them to be baptized in the Name of the Lord.

Acts 18. 8. And Crispus the chief Ruler of the Synagogue believed on the Lord, with all his house, and many of the Corinthians hearing, believed and were baptized.

Acts 22. 16. And now why tarriest thou, arise and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the Name of the Lord.

Rom. 6. 4. We are buried with him by Baptism.

Gal. 2721. As many as have been baptized 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 baptized into one body.

Acts 16. 33. And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes, and was

baptized, he and all his straitway.

Ver. 34. He believing in God with all his House.

Luke 3. 21. Jesus being baptized, the Heavens were opened.

Luke 3. 23. And Jesus himself being about thirty years of Age.

John 3. 23. John was baptizing in Aenon near Salem, because there was much water.

CHAP. XI.

Considerations by way of Conclusion.

1. COnsider that when souls are ashamed, then God will shew them the Ordinances and formes of

his House, Ezek. 43. 11. The Gospel-Church hath its formes.

2. Consider when God gives any soul a new heart, it is to fit him for Gods 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 Councel of God, not being baptzed.

21Galatians 3:27 ( Ed. ).

4. Consider what Judgments have attended the changing of Gods 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 Believe and be baptized; and men

baptize 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. Lev. 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, That where there was an Error in Baptism, there you shall find persons baptized

again: Consult Acts 19. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. Now if in thy Infant-Baptism thou wast not a right subject, nor was in the right form, then thou oughtest to be baptized again.

7. Consider if what thou didst receive in thy Infancy was no Baptism, and thou hast not been

baptized since, then 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.

8. 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 did deliver Baptism to Infants.

9. Consider, that many who have not been baptized since they believed, do deny Baptism to their

children: Let me ask such, if their own Infant-Baptism was sufficient to them, if they do deny it to

their children, why do they reckon their own Infant-Baptism sufficient. - How long halt ye

between two opinions.

10. Consider, that it is without all doubt Believers were baptized, Acts 8. 12. The baptizing of Infants at the best is but a doubt; Infant-Baptism hath been often disputed, but when was

Believers Baptism disputed. It is in very words exprest, They believed and were baptized. Now is it not better to go in an undoubted way, then a dark way.

11. Consider, there are multitudes of Examples of Believers Baptism; see page 1122. of this Book; but there's not one Example of Infant-baptism.

12. Consider if the salvation of thy soul did lie upon this question, Whether were believers

baptized, or were Infants baptized? wouldest thou not say, surely believers.

13. Consider, as Birth-right gave a right to Circumcision under the Law, so Birth-right 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 Logick, to say, the Preachers

seed under the Gospel, have less priviledge then the Priests under the Law.

13. Consider, that we are not to think of any above what is written, 1 Cor. 4.6. Now if Infant-22Chapter III ( Ed. )

Baptism be not written as an Ordinance, do not judge it to be an Ordinance.

15. Consider that Christ was faithful in all his House, Heb. 3. 5, 9. If it had been his Fathers Will that Infants should have been baptized; surely he would have been so faithful as to have left us

one word in his blessed Scriptures.

16. Consider, Moses the servant of the Lord did all according to the Pattern shewed in the Mount, Exod. 25. ver. last and shall not the servants of the Lord do all according to the Pattern he hath shewed us in the New Testament; the Pattern left on record is, They believed and were baptized, Acts. 8. 12.

17. 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, &c. seeing all is to be done decently; And they say, Surplices are decent; Railes about the Tables are decent, &c.

18. Consider, that seeing the Scripture is so exact, in setting down the several circumstances of

persons baptized, 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, at the City of Thyatira; her Religion, a Worshipper of God; her Action, She heard Gods 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 baptized; why should it be left out, were it Gods Will it should be done.

19. 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

baptizing Infants? This one Lawgiver hath not given one Law for the baptizing Infants.

20. Consider, whether baptizing Infants, Godfathers and Godmothers, the Cross in Baptism, the

Promises and Vows made for Children, were not all brought in by humane Inventions, at the

same time or on the same Reasons.

21. Consider, whether it be safe to admit of Consequences against an express Rule, Mat. 28. 19.

Teach and baptize.

22. Consider, whether those who baptize 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.

23. Consider, whether any of the Gospel-Ordinances hath so many plain words as Beleevers

Baptism.

24. Consider, whether being baptized be not a justifying God, and on thy part thou not being

baptized, dost not reject the Councel of God, Luke 7. 29, 30.

25. Consider, whether such as hold Infant-baptism do not preach Baptism to be a Sign of

Regeneration, and whether all or any Infants baptized are regenerated.

26. Consider, whether those who have not respect to all Gods Commands will not one day be

ashamed, Psal. 119. 6.

27. Consider, whether Abraham durst circumcise his child without a word of Command, then how durst thou baptize a child without a word.

28. Consider, whether we are not to press after the purity of Ordinances, and whether those

Ordinances which have the expresse Rule, are not most pure.

29. Consider, whether they and only they shall not have the Well-done at Christs coming, who

have done what he hath commanded, and as he hath commanded.

Now I beseech thee to consider what hath bin 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 Jesus,

sanctifie thee throughout, in body, soul and spirit, and give thee a heart to search whether these

things be so.

FINIS.

The Stationers Arms

READER,

These Books following are printed for and sold by Benjamin Harris, at the Sign of the Stationers Arms in Sweeting’s Rents , near the Royal Exchange in Cornhill .

WAR with the Devil: Or, The Young Mans Conflict with the Powers of Darkness. In a Dialogue,

Discovering the corruption and vanity of Youth, &c. To which is added an Appendix, containing

a Dialogue between an Old Apostate and a Young Professor; price bound 1 s.

A Parable of the Kingdom of Heaven, being an Exposition of the first thirteen verses of the 25th.

Chapter of Matthew. by Han. Knowls, in Qctavo, price bound 1 s.

Love to the Life, or some Meditations upon loving and washing in the Blood of Christ, together

with a taste of Gospel Promises, as the Churches Stock, or the Believers Patrimony, by Richard

Mayhew, price bound 8 d.

Darkness Vanquished, or Truth in its Primitive Purity, or a Treatise of Laying on of Hands, in

Octavo, price bound 1 s.

The Accomplish'd Lady's Delight in Preserving, Physick, Beautifying, and Cookery; in 12o. price

bound 2 s. 6 d.

There it also in the Press, A Dialogue between a young Professor and a Quaker; written by Mr.

Benjamin Keach Author of War with the Devil.

Also you may be there furnished with all manner of School-books, and Money for Old Books, or

Old Books new bound or claspt.

This text was transcribed from scanned TIF files downloaded from Early English Books Online

(EEBO - http://eebo.chadwyck.com) and accessed through the University of Sydney Library.

Reel position: Wing / 2896:09. The original book is held in Boston Public Library.

Transcription was by Mr Mark Smith, A Reformed Baptist's Disk (http://www.vor.org/rbdisk). ©

2017