An epistle concerning baptism. [occai]sionally written upon the sight [of] two treatises published by Thomas James father of a Presbyterian congre[ga]tion at Ashford in Kent : who [ha]th reflected upon the baptized [C]hristians / [by] [W]illiam Russell.

〈◊〉 those Inhabitants of Ashford , and the adjacent Parishes , who attend upon the Ministry of Mr. Thomas James .

THE Occasion of my writing this Epistle to you at this time , ariseth from the Consideration of two Books written by T. J. The one intituled , Spira's Despair revived . The other called , A Vindication of that Part of it which is ●●ed by the Anabaptists , &c. which is a pretended An●●o a Book written by J. W. in Answer to his first 〈◊〉 &c. the latter of which he dedicates to you .

〈◊〉 which Book he brings you in as Parties with him , in ●●deracy against that People ; as making you to have ●●●al , if not a greater Interest than him , in that Pa●●●●ar he hath raised against them .

〈◊〉 seeing it hath pleased God ( by his good Providence ) to put it into the Hearts of our King , and both ●●●●s of Parliament , to give us the free Exercise of our ●●●●on by Law , ( which we esteem as a great Mercy ) 〈◊〉 a wonder to me to read such scurrilous and re●●●●ful Language , against those of our Perswasion ; and ●●●ore , for that it proceeds from one who is himself a ●●●●er from the established Religion of the Land , and ●●●●ther of a Presbyterian Congregation . And to find ●●●●ublishing to the World , that the Inhabitants of Ashford and divers other Parishes , did join issue with him in ●●●●ng ; it seems to bespeak but little Sense of the Good●●●● God , and of our Rulers , in the Liberty you enjoy . 〈◊〉 whereas those Ministers that are of the Episcopal ●●●●ision , do give us civil Treatment , and do not con●●●● themselves to disturb our Peace and Quiet , much less ●●●●oach and abuse us : I was considering what should move Mr. Thomas James to act as he hath done : And at last I concluded it must certainly proceed from that very Spirit and Principle of the first Founder of your Sect , Mr. John Calvin , who burnt the Books of Servetus , a Learned Baptist ; and afterwards perswaded the Magistrates of Geneva to burn him alive . Which Sentence was execute● upon him , as Castellio testifies ( who was a Contemporary with him ) in these words ; Michael Servetus was burn alive for his Opinion , at Geneva , Anno 1553 , upon the 27th day of October .

And yet , as one well observes , Mr. Calvin did acknowledg this of him , That he was a Learned and a Charitable Man .

Notwithstanding this , he wrote a Book to justify , the● putting him to death , as a Man whose Books were full 〈◊〉 Errors . Which Book was sufficiently confuted by t●● Learned Castellio ; where he also shews that the Reason 〈◊〉 Calvin procured his Death , was this , lest the excelle●● Parts and Learning of Servetus should have eclipsed 〈◊〉 Glory of Calvin , and prevented him from being the 〈◊〉 of a Party . And yet Castellio was not a Baptist .

Now if Mr. James should have imbibed the same per●●cuting Principles , it is no wonder to find so much Ranc●● of Spirit appear in him against the Baptists in our Day as he hath expressed in these two Treatises . I speak 〈◊〉 this , as if I meant to accuse the whole Party ; for 〈◊〉 know that divers of them are meliorated , and have manifested themselves to be Men of better and more peacea●●● Principles . But seeing there are some young Men of another mind , I thought it not amiss to give you a Cau●●●● against it , remembring what an honest old Presbyter●●● Minister said once to some others of his Brethren , 〈◊〉 met to ordain three young Ministers who had decla●●● themselves for this persecuting Principle ; saith he , 〈◊〉 will have no hand in their Ordination , for there 〈◊〉 Firebrands enough in the World already ; and ( 〈◊〉 please God ) I will have no hand in sending more , 〈◊〉 such as they are enough to set the World in a Fla●● where-ever they come .

And I fear your young Man may be of that number 〈◊〉 pray let me ask you a few civil Questions ; which I de●●● you to propound to him , and do you demand of him ●●ticular and distinct Answers thereunto .

1. Whether Mr. James doth not believe the Episcopal Church of England to be a true Church ? and their Teachers to be true Ministers ? 2. Whether he doth not own their Baptism and Ordination to be true and valid ? 3. Whether he doth not think it lawful for you to go to their publick Worship , and attend upon their Ministry in their Parochial Assemblies ; rather than suffer Imprisonment , and the loss of your Estates ? And if this be so , Then , 4. what can be the Motive to excite Thomas ●●mes to keep up a Separation from the established Church 〈◊〉 England , now in a Time of Peace ? unless it be to get 〈◊〉 better livelihood for himself , than he could otherwise ●●ain . 5. Whether the fear of losing some of his Auditors , or ●●ing hindred from an increase of their Number , by which his Income might be diminished , might not be ●●e great Motive which excited him to such a foolish way 〈◊〉 scribling against the Baptists ? 6. Whether it doth not therefore highly concern you , 〈◊〉 make a diligent Enquiry into the Word of God , and ex●●ne his Doctrines thereby , that you may see whether ●●y agree with the Doctrine and Practice of the Apostles ●●d Primitive Christians , lest you should be cheated , both 〈◊〉 your Money and of your Souls ?

Now , Sirs , if a prejudicate Opinion doth not interpose , 〈◊〉 ●oubt not but it may be said of you as of those in Acts ●● . 48 . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , you are disposed to eternal Life : ●●ed then there will be some hope , you will give credit to ●●e Authority of God , in the Gospel of his dear Son , ●●d be willing to learn what may be taught you .

Had not Mr. James opposed us in the Point of Holy Baptism , I had not concerned my self with him , believing he 〈◊〉 sufficiently confuted about his Calumnies against our friends at Ashford by another hand .

I shall therefore ( for the sake of Truth ) use my endeavour to elucidate the Point in controversy , that you may ●●re a more clear and distinct knowledg of it .

Neither you nor your Teacher , ought to think it below 〈◊〉 to be instructed in any Gospel-Truth , but receive it 〈◊〉 meekness and humility ; and be thankful to them that 〈◊〉 take the pains to do it .

For Apollos , who was a great Preacher , and a Man mighty in the Holy Scriptures , did not disdain that a Woman should instruct him in the Way of God more perfectly , Acts 18.24 , 25 , 26.

And for your better understanding the Point in Controversy , I shall do these three things .

I. Shew you , that Baptism is to be administred by Dipping , Plunging , or overwhelming the Person in Water . II. That true penitent Believers are the right Subject of Baptism . III. That the Ordinance of Baptism is now in being and is to continue to the End of this World .

I. I shall shew that Baptism must be administred by Dipping , &c. if we consider these four things .

1. The Etymology , or Signification of the Word , the Holy Spirit uses to express it by . 2. Those Metaphors used in Holy Scripture , to represent it to our Understanding . 3. From the Practice of the first Baptizers . 4. From the grand Commission of our Saviour , Mat. 28.19 .

1. From the Etymology , or Signification of the Word .

The word Baptism , is from the Greek 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , to dipt . Baptisma , a Dipping ; from 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , Bapto , to dip , plunge or drown . It implieth the washing of the whole Body 〈◊〉 even such a washing as is used in Bucks , where Linen i● plunged and dipt . For the native and proper signification of it , is to dip into Water , or to plunge under Water , see Leigh's Critica Sacra .

It is a Metaphor taken from the use of the Dyers Vat 〈◊〉 and is such a Dipping , by which the Cloth put into it is dyed , and not a bare washing only ; from whence cometh Baptism .

Zepperus de Sacramentis saith , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , Baptism ; 〈◊〉 vocis notationem attendere velimus , vocabulum Baptismi mersionem significat in aquam , &c. If we will attend to the Notation of the word Baptism , it signifies to dip into Water 〈◊〉 or the Act it self of Dipping and Washing . From hence therefore , and from the Etymology of the Word it self , i● doth appear what was the Custom of administring Baptism from the beginning . Whereas now ( saith he ) we ●●●●ther use Rantism ( viz. Sprinkling ) in the stead of Baptism , which is Dipping .

Alstedius in his Lexicon Theologicum , printed Anno 1612. 〈◊〉 310. saith thus , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , & 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , Tingere , lavare , inficere : unde deductum aliud ver●●●● 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , intingere , immergere , maximè quidem aquâ . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 tantum significat immergere ; non lavare , nisi 〈◊〉 unsequenti .

From whence it may plainly be seen , that this Learned ●●●●hor doth assert , That Baptism is to dip , plunge , or 〈◊〉 whelm the Person baptized in Water : And that its ●●●●per signification is to dip , or dye , and not to wash , but ●●●●y by Consequence . For which he cites for his Autho●●●● , both Plutarch and Nazianzen ; as may be seen at large 〈◊〉 the Book it self .

Besides this is so well known , that every School-boy in 〈◊〉 Greek-Grammar can tell you , that 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , bapto , is ●●●●re rendred mergo , immergo , to dip , to plunge or overwhelm .

●lso in a Greek Lexicon , published and recommended to 〈◊〉 for the encrease of Knowledg , by Joseph Caryll , George Cokayne , Ralph Vening , William Dell , Matthew Barker , William Adderly , Matthew Mead , and Henry Jessey ,

●●ey tell us , that the signification of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , is to dip , ●●●●ge , or drown . And in the Passive Voice , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , 〈◊〉 to be plunged , or overwhelmed . And that 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , 〈◊〉 to plunge , to overwhelm , to baptize , to dip . And in 〈◊〉 Passive Voice , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , to be plunged , to be baptized , or dipped .

In Clavis Graecae Linguae , printed at London , Anno 1640. 〈◊〉 is thus rendred ; 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , mergo , tingo , to dip , 〈◊〉 dye . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , Idem , the same .

〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , & 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , mersio , to drown ; and there●●●● 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , is often rendred , to dip into , to drown . 〈◊〉 from thence the Latins use mersus , à mergo , drowned , ●●●●ered , or over whelmed with Water . And therefore it ●●●sed in the New Testament , for that Holy Ordinance of Baptism ; it being performed by dipping the whole Body of the Person baptized under Water .

The Learned Robertson , ( my singular good Friend ) in his Thesaurus Graecae Linguae , saith , Baptizo , mergo . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , Intingo , mergo , to dye , to dip , plunge , &c. Hence ( saith he ) is Baptizo , which signifies the same . As also Baptismos , Baptisma , &c. But the Greek word 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , Rantizo , ( he saith ) is aspergo , to sprinkle .

〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , Rontismos , Aspersio , Sprinkling . So that you may ea●●ly 〈…〉 is as much difference betwint these two Greek 〈…〉 Baptismos and Rantismos in Greek , as there is betwixt these 〈◊〉 words , Dipping and Sprinkling in English ; and therefore surely , not to be conceived to be sy●●●imous , so as to signity the same thing .

I now presume , from what hath been said , that if the word 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , and its Derivatives , are used in all places in the New Testament , where this Ordinance of Baptism is spoken of : Then it will follow , by an unavoidable Consequence , that Dipping is the right manner of Baptizing and that Sprinkling is not Baptizing .

That it is so , will evidently appear from an Enumeration of Particulars . I will instance in some of the principal , when I come to shew you what was the Practice of the first Baptizers . But of that in its proper place .

I now come to treat of the second Particular under this Head , viz. Dipping the Persons baptized into Water , appears to be the right way of administring this Ordinance if we consider the Metaphors used in Holy Scripture 〈◊〉 express it by .

There are two I shall chiefly insist upon : 1. A Burial 2. A Resurrection .

We are to consider , that our Lord Jesus Christ hath no● burdened us under the Gospel , with a multitude of Ceremonies , as it was in that Oeconomy of the Jews under the Legal Dispensation : But only with some few , and those very significant ; this being a more spiritual Dispensation .

As therefore the Holy Supper of our Lord in the breaking of the Bread , signifies the breaking of his Body ; and the pouring out of the Wine , the shedding of his most precious Blood ; and both of these in conjunction his Death 1 Cor. 11.26 . For as often as you eat this Bread , and drive this Cup , ye do shew forth the Lord's Death till he come . Even so Holy Baptism doth shew forth his Burial and direction ; Rom. 6.4 . Therefore we are buried with him baptism into Death ; that like as Christ was raised up from Dead to the Glory of the Father , even so we also should walk ●●●ess of Life .

●ow consider the Metaphor : when Men are dead , we 〈◊〉 them by covering the whole Body under Ground , 〈◊〉 not by scattering or sprinkling a little Dust or Earth 〈◊〉 their Faces only .

●prinkling ( you know ) hath no resemblance to Bu●●● ; but dipping or plunging the whole Body under Wa●●● is a most express and lively representation thereof .

But perhaps Humane Testimonies will please you and 〈◊〉 Pastor , better than Divine . And therefore I shall 〈◊〉 you the Opinion of some Learned Bishops to corroborate what I say , who may be supposed to understand 〈◊〉 Original as well as Mr. James .

The late Arch-Bishop of Canterhury , Dr. John Tillotson , ●●●h , in his Sermon upon 2 Tim. 2.19 . Antiently those ●ho were baptized , put off their Garments , which signified the putting off the Body of Sin ; and were immersed and buried in the Water , to represent the Death of Sin ; and then did rise up again out of the Water , to signify their entrance upon a new Life ; and to these Customs the Apostle alludes Rom. 6.4 .

Also Dr. Fowler , the present Bishop of Gloucester , in his ●ook of the Scope of the Christian Religion , interprets this saying of the great Apostle , Rom. 6.4 . as follows ;

Christians being plunged into the Water in Baptism , signifieth their undertaking and obliging themselves in a Spiritual Sense to die , and be buried with Jesus Christ , ( which Death and Burial consist in an utter renouncing and forsaking of all their Sins ) that so answerably to his Resurrection , they may live a holy and godly Life .

Moreover , Dr. Jer. Taylor , late Bishop of Down , in his Doctor Dubitantium , lib. 3. cap. 4. saith thus :

The Custom of the Antient Church was not Sprinkling , but Immersion , in pursuance of the Sense of the word 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , both in the Commandment and Example of our Blessed Saviour .

And this ( saith he ) agrees with the Mystery of the Sacrament it self ; for we are buried with him in Baptism , saith the Apostle . The old Man is buried and drowned i● the Immersion under Water : and when the baptized Person is lifted up from the Water , it represents the Resurrection of the new Man to newness of Life .

To this I shall only add that other Divine Testimony o● the Apostle Paul , Col. 2.12 . Buried with him in Baptism wherein also ye are risen with him through the Faith of the Operation of God , who hath raised him from the Dead . And shall now proceed to the third Particular , viz.

3. It doth appear that Dipping is the right way of Baptizing , from the Practice of the first Baptizers .

The first mention of this Ordinance of Holy Baptism , we have in Mat. 3.1 . where John the Dipper is mentioned . And in ver. 6. it is written , And were baptized of him in Jordan confessing their Sins . The Greek word there is 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 ; which is in English , They were dipped , plunged , or overwhelmed : For it is from the word 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , to dip , &c. as I have already shewed .

In the 7th Verse , the word is 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , which signifie the same .

In the 11th Verse 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , to dip , &c.

In Verse the 13th 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , to be dipped .

The Word is used again in ver. 14.

And the same also in the Passive Voice , is used in ver. 16. where it is said , And Jesus , when he was baptized , &c. And the following words do make that Sense evident ; for when he was dipped by John in the River of Jordan , it is said , He went up straightway out of the Water : Which implies , beyond contradiction , That he was in the River , and over whelmed with the Water , according to the proper and native signification of the word 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . And if you will read the 5th and 6th Verses of this Chapter , you will find there Multitudes thus baptized by John the Baptist , ( or Dipper ) for it 's said , Then went out to him Jerusalem , and all Judea , and all the Region round about Joran , and were baptized of him in Jordan . The same is also testified in that parallel place , Mark 1.4 , 5. and the same Greek words used there as in Mat. 3. which I have above recited . And in Mark 1.9 . Jesus was baptized of John in Jordan . The Greek is 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , into Jordan . Now what Sense would this be ? Jesus was sprinkled into Jordan . But to say , Jesus was dipt into the River of Jordan , is good Sense , as well as a great Truth . Diodate , upon Mat. 3.6 . saith , They were plunged in the ●●der . And the Assembly in their Annotations , say , Dipping in Jordan . But because they are noted by Mr. Wells 〈◊〉 his Answer , I shall forbear reciting them , and proceed 〈◊〉 other Authors .

Cajetan saith , Christ was baptized , not by Sprinkling , but 〈◊〉 Dipping him into the Water . And Piscator , on John 3.23 . 〈◊〉 Baptism was administred by dipping the whole Body in ●●●er .

Mr. Mede on Titus 3.5 . saith , There was no such thing as Sprinkling used in Baptism in the Apostles Time , nor many Ages after them .

It is also the Observation of that late Learned and Pious ●●●aister of Christ , Mr. John Gosnold , in his Book intituled , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 ; That Mr. John Calvin , up and down in his Works , doth often ( with many others in our Days ) confess , That the Antient manner of Baptism in the Primitive Times was , by dipping the whole Body under Water . And also confesseth that the Church hath assumed this Liberty to her self , of using Sprinkling in the room thereof .

The same Author also observes , That the Translators themselves never so much as once in all the New Testament renders it by Sprinkling . There is another Word for that , which they constantly translate to sprinkle , to wit , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , Rantizo ; whereby it 's evident , Rantism is not Baptism , Sprinkling is not Dipping .

Besides , in all the Places that I have met with , where nothing of the stress of this Controversy depends , our Translators have every where rendred 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , &c. to dip . for instance , in Rev. 19.13 . He had his Vesture dipt in Blood . and in Mat. 26.23 . He that dippeth his Hand with me in the Dish . Luke 16.24 . That he may dip the Tip of his Finger in later . And in John 13.26 . it is twice used , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , dipped ; 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , and when he had dipped , Jesus answered , He it is to whom I shall give a Sop , when I have dipped it . And when he had dipped the Sop , he gave it to Judas ●●eariot , &c.

Moreover , if we will but consider the Places where this Holy Ordinance was administred by the first Baptizers , it will greatly elucidate this Truth .

For it was not practised in the Temple , nor in their Synagogues , nor yet in private Houses , in which it might have been done more commodiously , if sprinkling a 〈◊〉 Drops of Water upon their Faces would have sufficed .

But they baptized in the River of Jordan , and other Places where there was much Water ; because plunging the whole Body under Water did require it .

In John 3.23 . And John also ( 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 ) was dipping in Enon , near to Salim , because there was 〈◊〉 Water there ; and they came and were ( 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 ) dipped . Now here we have the Reason given , why J●●● baptized in this place , i. e. Because there was much Water . But if he had not plunged them into the Water , but on●● sprinkled them with a few Drops thereof , this Reason 〈◊〉 been without Foundation . For as Cornelius à Lapide 〈◊〉 serves , A very little Water would have served to have sprinkled Thousands . But their manner of baptizing being to dip the whole Body under Water , therefore much Water was necessary thereunto , without which 〈◊〉 Act of Baptizing could not be performed .

Now altho T. J. hath trampled upon our Reasons offered in justification of this Practice , I hope he will not make so bold with the Spirit 's Testimony , as to contradict the Reason he hath given in the Text under Consideration .

Thus you see that John , who was the first Baptizers and sent of God to dip Persons in Water , as the beginning of the Gospel , and to prepare Christ's Way before him 〈◊〉 Joh. 1.33 . He that sent me ( 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 ) to dip , plunge , 〈◊〉 overwhelm in Water , meaning God the Father . Where ever there is mention made of his Baptizing , the same Words are used , either Bapto , or its derivatives .

If we observe what is said of our Saviour's Baptizing ( tho Jesus himself did not baptize ( in his own Person ) but by his Disciples ) in every place the same Word 〈◊〉 used ; as John 3.22 . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . Also John 4.1 , 2. 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , & 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 ; which all signify to dip , to be dipped , &c.

To proceed to the Practice of the Apostles , and chief Ministers of the Gospel , after our Lord's Resurrection we shall find the same Word used ( as above ) in every place , where there is mention made of their Baptizing .

The first Instance is in Acts 2.41 . Then they that gladly ●●●ved his Word , were baptized , the word is 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 .

In Acts 8.12 . it is also from the same word 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , 〈◊〉 were dipped , both Men and Women .

And in Acts 8.38 , 39. 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , And he dipped him .

It is here to be observed , that the Administrator Phi●●● as well as the Eunuch , went both down into the Water , which had been needless , if Sprinkling would have ser●●d the ●●rn ) ; And when they came there , it 's said , He ●●●●zed him , i. e. dipt him . And then it 's further said , ●●●y came up out of the Water ; not from the Side , or Surface 〈◊〉 it , as Mr. James would insinuate , by distinguishing be●●een from and out of ; for here it is said expresly , they 〈◊〉 up out of the Water .

Also in Acts 10.48 . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , to be dipped , &c.

To be short , There is , you see , an Account that John the ●●ptist , Christ ( by his Disciples ) when upon Earth , and 〈◊〉 Apostles after his Resurrection , did all of them practise 〈◊〉 Holy Ordinance of Baptism by dipping , or plunging 〈◊〉 Persons baptized into the Water .

I will add to this the Testimony of Mr. Dan. Rogers ; None of old were wont to be sprinkled ; And ( saith he ) I confess my self unconvinced by demonstration of Scripture for Infants sprinkling . And further , in his Treatise of the two Sacraments , Part 1. Chap. 5. he hath these words , It ought to be the Church's Part to cleave to the Institution , which is Dipping . And that he betrays the Church , whose Officer he is , to a disordered Error , if he cleave not to the Institution , which is to dip .

And this leads me to the 4th Particular , namely , That 〈◊〉 will appear that Dipping is the right way of Baptizing , 〈◊〉 we consider that grand Commission of our Saviour , Mat. 28.19 . the Greek word is 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , from 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 to dip . And being given here by way of Precept , it is Dipping them . But seeing I have already explained the signification of the Greek words by which Baptism is signified , even to tediousness , both to my self and you , I shall insist no longer upon it .

As also , because I am of Opinion that the Gospel of Matthew was written in Hebrew , according to Jerom's Testimony , and the Opinion ( I think ) of most Learned Men. I shall therefore give you the words , so far as they concern our Purpose , under this Head , as they are in that Language , in which I am sure it was spoken , if not written ; It is 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 vetabelu Otam ; and dip ye them . The Root is Tabal , which is the third Person Singular in the Preterperfect Tense , and signifies , he dipped : And is so rendred in many places in Holy Scripture ; particularly in 2 Kings 5.15 . where speaking of Naaman the Syrian , it is said , He dipped himself in Jordan seven times , and was clean .

In Mat. 3.6 . you have the same Word again in the Passive Voice , which must be rendred in English , and were dipped of him in Jordan . And in Ver. 16. you have the same Root again , as it is there applied to our Saviour ; And Jesus , when he was dipped , went up straightway out of the Water .

Also in John 3.22 , 23. the same Word is used . And in John 4.1 , 2. it is the same in that Hebrew New Testament of Mr. Robertson's , who was certainly one of the most Learned Hebricians our Age hath afforded .

I might add to this the Testimony of the Dutch Translators , who call John the Baptist , Johannes de Dooper , John the Dipper ; and in this Commission de selve dopende , dipping them . And if our Translators had generally ( where that Word had occurred ) turned it into English , as they have into Dutch , they had saved me and others the trouble .

Now if all this will not suffice , I know not what will . However I will make Mr. James one generous Offer ; That if he can shew me where our Translators have in any one place rendred Baptizo to sprinkle ; or è contra , have rendred Rantizo to dip , in the New Testament , I will grant him the Cause . And I do hope , if he cannot do it , he will own that we are in the right .

O , what a Tyrant Custom is ! that dares stand up and contradict a thing that is so evident in it self , so agreeable to the Reason of the Ordinance , to the Etymology of the Word , ( and that from the Pens of our Adversaries ) and to the use of the Phrase and Expression in Holy Scripture , to the Commission of our Lord , to the Doctrine and Practice of the first Baptizers , both before and after our Saviour's Resurrection , and the manner of planting the Primitive Churches .

Notwithstanding all this ( I say ) Custom in a wrong ●ay , makes Men bold to oppose the right Way , altho ●●ey acknowledg it is the best .

In things civil and indifferent , I can be content that ●●stom should be my Guide , but not in the Matter of ●●dinances , and things Sacred ; the Rule of which lies in 〈◊〉 Institution , ( which we are strictly to observe ) and is 〈◊〉 in the Power of our Liberty or Choice , either to use 〈◊〉 refuse : For that Blessing which attends the Use there●●●● is annexed unto our Conformity to the Rule and Insti●●●ion ; see Mat. 28.20 .

But to proceed to the second General Head .

II. That true Penitent Believers are the right Subject of Baptism .

I shall make it good by doing these three things .

1st . By examining who John the Baptist ( who was the 〈◊〉 Baptizer ) did admit to his Baptism .

2ly , Who our Saviour commanded to be baptized , in 〈◊〉 grand Commission Mat. 28.

●ly , Who it was practised upon by the Apostles and first ●●●isters of Christ , pursuant to that Commission . And 〈◊〉 these in their Order .

1st , Therefore let us examine who they were that John 〈◊〉 admit to his Baptism .

The first Syllable we read of its being practised , is in 〈◊〉 . 3. by John the Dipper , ( so called by the Evangelist , 〈◊〉 Eminentiae , as being the Beginner of that Holy Ordinance ) where we have an Account , in Ver. 2. what Do●●●ne he preached before he baptized , Repent ye , for the ●●●●dom of Heaven is at hand . And in ver. 5. Then went out 〈◊〉 Jerusalem , and all Judea , and all the Region round a●●● Jordan . Ver. 6. 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 ; 〈◊〉 were plunged ( of him ) into Jordan , confessing their Sins . 〈◊〉 Hebrew word also , is Vaitabelu , and were dipped , &c.

Upon this I shall observe some things , and so pass it .

1. That those he baptized were Adult Persons , ( and 〈◊〉 Infants ) for they went out to him .

2. That they were penitent Persons , such that confes●●● their Sins .

3. That no others were admitted to his Baptism .

For , in ver. 7. it 's said , But when he saw many of the P●●risees and Sadduces come to his Baptism , he said unto the● , 〈◊〉 Generation of Vipers , who hath warned you to flee from 〈◊〉 Wrath to come ? Bring forth therefore Fruits meet for Repent .

4. That no Birth-Privileges will entitle any Person 〈◊〉 that Holy Ordinance without Repentance .

For the Baptist tells them , in ver. 9. Think not to 〈◊〉 within your selves , We have Abraham to our Father . 〈◊〉 ( in ver. 10. ) now also the Ax is laid to the Root of the Tr●● therefore every Tree ( i. e. every Person ) which bringeth 〈◊〉 forth good Fruit , is hewen down and cast into the Fire .

And to inform them more fully of the Nature of 〈◊〉 Commission , and the Qualifications of the Subjects , 〈◊〉 further saith , I indeed baptize you with Water ( unto , or 〈◊〉 the Original hath it ) upon Repentance .

Which agrees most exactly with the Design of Jo●● Ministry , he being to make ready a People prepared 〈◊〉 the Lord ; Repentance being a necessary Qualification without which they could not be admitted thereunto .

But some may query , How I prove they were to believe as well as repent ?

I answer , in the words of the Apostle Paul , Acts 19. ●● . John verily did baptize with the Baptism of Repentance , say●● unto the People , That they should believe on him which sho●●● come after him , that is , on Christ Jesus .

From all which it appears , beyond dispute , That 〈◊〉 little Infants were the Subjects of John's Baptism . For , 1. They could not come from Jerusalem to the River●● Jordan , and desire to be baptized . 2. Nor could they confess their Sins . 3. Nor yet be able to understand his Preaching , with 〈◊〉 Nature and Design of his Baptism . 4. Nor , lastly , could they be expected to bring fo●●● Fruits worthy amendment of Life .

All which agrees only to Adult Persons ; they can ●●pent , they can believe in Christ , they can confess th●● sinful Deeds , and come to tender themselves for Baptism ( as all those did whom John baptized ) which things ●●tle Infants are not capable to perform : Therefore Petent Believers ( and not Infants ) were the right and o● proper Subject of John's Baptism .

2ly , I shall consider the grand Commission of our Lord , Mat. 28.18 , 19 , 20. And Jesus came , and spake unto them , ●●ing , All Power is given to me in Heaven and in Earth . Go 〈◊〉 therefore and teach all Nations , baptizing them in the Name of 〈◊〉 Father , and of the Son , and of the Holy Ghost : Teaching 〈◊〉 to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you : ●●●o , I am with you alway , even unto the End of the World . ●●em .

That the Gospel of Matthew was written in Hebrew , 〈◊〉 I have touched above ) I find it to be the Opinion of ●●●ers Men , eminently Learned : And among others , Hie●●● , in the Life of this Evangelist , saith , M●tthaeus qui 〈◊〉 Levi ex publicano Apostolos , primus in Judaea propter eos qui 〈◊〉 Circumcisione credidernt Evangelium Christi , Hebraicis literis ●●●bisque composuit . And further notes , In quo animadverten●●● , quod ubicumque Evangelista sive ex persona sua , sive ex ●●●●ona Domini Salvatoris , veteris Scripturae testimoniis utitur , 〈◊〉 sequatur Septuaginta translatorum autoritatem , sed Hebraicis . Here you see he tells us , That the Gospel of Christ 〈◊〉 Matthew , for the sake of those of the Circumcision 〈◊〉 believed , was written in Hebrew Words , and Hebrew ●●●ters . And that he every-where , in his Quotations out 〈◊〉 the Old Testament , followed the Hebrew , and not the ●●●p●uagint Translation .

In Mr. William Robertson's Hebrew New Testament , I 〈◊〉 these words between the 18th and 19th Verses , which do not find in any Greek Copy .

〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉

And as my Father hath sent me , even so also I send you . Go 〈◊〉 therefore , &c.

I pray observe in what a solemn manner our Saviour be●●●●s this Commission .

1. By declaring his own Authority ; All Power in Heaven 〈◊〉 Earth is given to me . 2. The Fulness of that Authority he gave to his Apo●●●es ; As the Father hath sent me , even so also I send you .

He then comes to give forth the Commission it self , as in 〈◊〉 19th and 20th Verses .

The first thing in this Commission is this , Christ commands them to make Disciples by their Ministry . The Word that is translated Teach , is in the Hebrew 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Velamedu , it signifies to make Disciples by teaching ; for the Root is Lamad , he learned . And from thence is formed the Heemantique Noun Talmid , a Scholar or Disciple , one that hath learned .

The plain meaning therefore is , That they were first to make Disciples by their Ministry , and after that to baptize them .

If we also examine the Greek Copy , we shall find it to agree with the Hebrew ; 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . That word upon which the whole Stress of the Argument depends , is Matheteusate , which signifies , to make Disciples . The Learned render Mathetes , a Scholar , a Disciple ; and Matheteuo , to be a Scholar , or Disciple . And upon this word in this place , the Greek Lexicon renders it , to make Disciples .

But if Mr. James will not believe our Lexicographers , I can give him the Opinion of all the Translators of the New Testament for it , who have rendred it so in a multitude of Places ; and so far as I have found , in every place where the word is used , except only in this Commission , and here , ( for some Reason best known to themselves ) instead of Disciples , they have only rendred it Teach . And that which is most remarkable , they have five times in this Chapter rendred it Disciples , till they came to the 19th Verse , and there only it must be rendred teach ; as in ver. 7 , 8 , 9 , 13 , and 16. And in John 4.1 , 2. Jesus made and baptized more Disciples than John , but his Disciples ; in both which the same word is used .

And I pray observe the Order of the words , They were first made Disciples , and afterwards baptized ; as a prerequisite to fit them for that Holy Ordinance .

Also in Acts 11.26 . The Disciples are called Christians . And ver. 20 , 21. it 's said , how the same Persons came to be Disciples , The Lord Jesus was first preached to them ; upon this , a great Number believed , and turned to the Lord . And thus they were made Disciples , according to Christ's Commission .

Besides , in Mark 16.16 . He that believeth , and is baptized , shall be saved . This place is parallel in Time with Mat. 28.19 . And whereas in Matthew is required Discipling , there is required in Mark Believing , and both before Baptism ; It 's therefore plain , they must be believing Disciples . And Faith comes by hearing ; and therefore the Apostles were , 1. To preach to them ; as in Mark 16.15 . Preach the Gospel to every Creature . 2. By their Preaching to make them Disciples . 3. Being so made , to baptize them .

This is the genuine Sense of our Lord's Commission , Mat. 28.19 .

Say some , they own they must first be made Disciples , and afterwards baptized . But then they ask this Question , How do we know that little Infants are not made Disciples , by some secret Teaching of God ?

And supposing this to be true , of those who are born of believing Parents , they conclude they may be baptized .

I answer ; For Argument's sake , I will for once appose with them ; that not only the Infants of Belevers , but all Infants , so soon as they are born into the World , are made Disciples by some secret Teaching of God , ( but how we shall prove either of our Suppositions , I know not ) ; Nevertheless I deny that they are therefore to be baptized by virtue of this Commission . And low any mortal Man can know of this secret Work upon their Souls without Revelation . I can't imagine .

But pray consider a few things , and it will set the Truth ●e contend for in a clear Light . As , 1. it was Christ the Son of God who gave this Commission . And Jesus came and spake . 2. Who did he give it unto ? Not to his Father to make Disciples of little Infants , by some secret Teaching of his , but to his Apostles that were Men , to make Disciples by their Ministry ; He spake unto them .

The Conclusion is natural ; which I shall form into this short Syllogism .

If little Infants are not capable to be made Disciples by the Ministry of Men ;

Then they cannot possibly be the Subjects of Baptism intended in this Commission .

But little Infants are not capable to be made Disciples by the Ministry of Men ;

Ergo , They cannot possibly be the Subjects of Baptism intended in this Commission .

The Major is undeniable , the Minor I thus prove .

If little Infants have no knowledg to discern between Good and Evil , then they are not capable to be made Disciples by the Ministry of Men.

But they have no knowledg to discern between Good and Evil ;

Ergo ; They are not capable to be made Disciples by the Ministry of Men.

The Minor only is questionable , which I prove by Divine Authority , Deut. 1.39 . Moreover your little Ones — and your Children , which in that Day had no knowledg between Good and Evil.

So that the first Argument is made good , viz. That little Infants cannot possibly be the Subjects of Baptism intended in this Commission .

Whereas some of our Antagonists say , the word them relates to all Nations : As they confute themselves , by refusing to baptize Turks and Jews , before they own Christ ; so that they cannot extend it universally : Even so it appears , the word them , hath no reference unto all Nations , if they will but mind the Grammar of the Text.

For 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , them , is of the Masculine Gender , ( but 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , all Nations , is of the Neuter ) and agrees with 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , Disciples ; and must have reference to them , as the only Persons fitted for Holy Baptism .

But to proceed ,

3ly , I shall shew you who it was practised upon by the Apostles , and first Ministers of Christ , pursuant to the grand Commission .

We find all along in the History of the Acts of the Apostles , that Baptism was practised upon grown Persons , that there Disciples of Christ , having gladly received their ●●eaching , repented of their Sins , and believed the Go●●el , which Infants are not capable to perform .

Acts 2.38 . Repent , and he baptized . Ver. 41. Then they 〈◊〉 gladly received his Word , were baptized . Ver. 44. And 〈◊〉 that believed were together .

Acts 8.12 . When they believed Philip , preaching the things ●●urning the Kingdom of God , and the Name of Jesus Christ , 〈◊〉 were baptized , both Men and Women , not little Infants . 〈◊〉 ver. 36. After Philip had preached Jesus to the Eunuch , according to Christ's Commission ) they came unto a certain Water ; and he asked Philip , What did hinder him to be baptized ? Philip answers , If thou believest with all thine heart , 〈◊〉 mayest . And he answered , I believe that Jesus Christ is 〈◊〉 Son of God . And upon that Profession of his Faith , he 〈◊〉 immediately baptized . So that we may learn hence , ●●at Faith is a pre-requisite of Baptism ; for Philip re●●es Faith of the Eunuch , before he would baptize 〈◊〉 .

So in the Jaylor's Case , Acts 16.31 . Paul requires of 〈◊〉 , to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ . And in ver. 33 , 34. is said , he was baptized , believing in God , &c.

Acts 18.8 . Crispus believed on the Lord ; and many of the ●●inthians hearing , believed , and were baptized . If these testimonies are not sufficient , I know not what will .

I could in this place produce divers Testimonies from 〈◊〉 learned ( were it needful ) to prove that no Infants ●ere baptized for about two hundred Years from Christ . 〈◊〉 Dr. Barlow's Testimony : There is ( saith he ) no just Evidence of Infant-Baptism , till about two hundred Years after Christ .

The Learned Curcellaeus affirms , That the Custom of baptizing Infants , was brought in without the Commandment of Christ , and did not begin before the third Century .

Grotius , on Mat. 19.13 . gives this Account ; That according to the Rule of Scripture , and agreeing with Reason it self , the most part of the Greeks in all Ages , even unto this Day , retain a Custom of delaying Infant-Baptism , till they themselves can give a Confession of their Faith . And it is certain that Nazianzen , though the Son of a Christian Bishop , who lived about the fourth Century , and was bred up in the Christian Religion , was not baptized till he was about thirty Years of Age.

The same is also true of Chrysostom , Hierom , Ambrose , Augustine , and others .

And as the Learned Dr. Dia. Veil observes , it does manifestly appear , That the wisest of our Fathers in Christ , did not come to Baptism , until they were come to a strong and confirmed Age and Wit. So that ( it's plain ) they were not baptized in their Infancy . Yea , further he saith , I could never read of so much as one of the Antient Fathers , for six hundred Years after Christ , that was baptized in his Infancy .

Ludovicus Vives affirms in his Treatise de Civitate Dei , Lib. 1. cap. 27. Neminem olim consuevisse baptizari nisi adulta aetate , & qui per se peteret baptisnum , & intelligeret quid sit baptizari . None of old Time were wont to be baptized but in a grown Age , and who desired it themselves , and understood what it was to be baptized .

Erasmus in his Annotations on the E●istle to the Romans , affirms , That baptizing of Children was not in use in Paul's Time .

And Dr. Field , in his learned Treatise of the Church , pag. 729. affirms , That many very antiently , who were born of Christian Parents , put off their Baptism a long Time ; insomuch as some were elected Bishops before they were baptized . As we read ( saith he ) of A●●brose , &c.

The Learned Bossuet , speaking of the manner of administring Baptism , saith , We never read in the Scripture , that any were baptized otherwise than by Immersion , And we are able to prove , from the Acts of Councils and antient Rituals , that every-where in the whole Church throughout the World , for the space of 1300 Years , Baptism was never administred but by Dipping , except only in Cases of Necessity .

And Bellarmine saith , Infant-Baptism is called an Apostolical Tradition not written , because it is not found written in any Apostolical Book . Tom. 1. lib. 4. cap. 2.

Where by the way I shall note , That if a Man of his Parts and Learning could not find it there , I believe others will have as little Success in their search after it : And it had been his Interest to have proved it from Scripture as much as any , because 〈◊〉 say a greater stress upon 〈◊〉 than 〈◊〉 , and these of his Religion ; for they assert it to be necessary 〈◊〉 ●●ation .

Let Mr. Ja●● . know , we do not bring the Testimonies of Hur● he Writers , because we think the Holy Scriptures 〈◊〉 to justify our Cause . For I may say with Tertullian , Lib. contra Hermogenem , Adoro Scripturae ple●itudi●● , &c. I adore the Fuluess of the Scripture , let ●●●gexes shew that it is written .

But to satisfy the World that we are not singular in our Judgments about these Matters , as also to obviate an Objection of your Pastor , who tells us in his last Trease , Pag. 20 , That at the rate some Baptists write and 〈◊〉 report the Words of the Learned , they would per●●● swade silly People , all the Learned Men were almost 〈◊〉 Anabaptists , and 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , self-condemned , being 〈◊〉 as they are in Opinion , though of a contrary Practice .

I answer , That although they are of a contrary Practice , I hope that can be no Bar to us from reciting their words in favour of our Opinion ; For , Firmum est 〈◊〉 prohationis , quod ab ipso adversario sumitur , ut veritas , 〈◊〉 ipsis inimicis veritatis probetur . It is a forcible kind of Proof , which is taken from the Adversary himself , when ●e Truth is proved from them that oppose the Truth . ●nd I have herein followed the Counsel of Lactantius , 〈◊〉 1. c. 6. Eos suorum Testimoui●● revincere , &c. To convince ●hem by their own Testimonies , which is the strongest Conviction that may be .

As it is truly said by Chrysostom , Tunc illos maxime revin●●us , cum suorum , in eos , dicta retorquemus . We do most ●rcibly convince them , when we can retort their own ●yings against them .

And therefore as Lactantius , de vera sapientia , cap. 12. faith , Satis firmum Testimonium , ad probandum veritatem , quod ab ipsis perhibetur inimieis . That is a sound Argument for the proving of the Truth , which is setched from the Enemies of the Truth .

Yea , suppose it were but weak in it self , yet it hath great weight against him that brings it . For , as the Roman Orator observes in the like Case ; Tuum Testimonium , quod , in alienare , leve est ; in tua , quoniam contra te est , gravissinum esse debet . Thy Testimony , which is but light and frivolous in another Man's Cause , yet is weighty in thine own , when it is against thy self .

Now I fancy that the Reason why Mr. James would not have us urge the Testimonies of the Learned , for fear of shewing how contradictory some of their Opinions have been to their Practices , is , lest in so doing he also should be found to be 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , condemned of himself ; and that in many places of his Book , particularly , when he brings a Poet to prove , that Christ was not baptized by Dipping .

And in Pag. 20. he saith , I would fain know who can prove our Lord Jesus Christ was dipped , or plunged , in his Baptism ; or any of those baptized Ones spoken of in the New Testament , were so dipped , or plunged ?

I will give you the Opinion of some Learned Men upon it in this very Place , altho I have said sufficient to it elsewhere ; and then shew you how Mr. James is condemned by his own Pen.

Now if any one ( saith Maldonate ) ask why the Evangelists use the Word of Ascending ? &c. It was because Christ ascended , or went up out of the Water , in the which he had been dipt or drowned .

Lucas Brugensis , saith upon the Place , Matth. 3.16 Christ descended into the River ( after the manner o● others that were baptized ) as deep as his Thighs , o● his Navel , for the rest of his Body was dipt by Joh● and not sprinkled only with Water .

And the Learned Cajetan tells us upon the Place , Christ ascended out of the Water ; therefore Christ was baptized by John , not by Sprinkling , nor by pouring Wate● upon him , but by Immersion , that is , by dipping o● plunging in the Water . Many more Testimonies might be brought from Men , 〈◊〉 use Rantism instead of Baptism , but that I have al●● exceeded my first Intention . But I shall now shew 〈◊〉 that Mr. James ( like the rest of those I have quo●● ) hath contradicted himself : For in the same 20th 〈◊〉 of his Book , where he vapours so mightily , and ●enges us to prove , that Christ , or any others , were ●●ized by Dipping , as you have seen above ; yet pre●●y he tells us , That Baptism was oft performed by ●ping , I gainsay not . And in the very next Page he 〈◊〉 , I do not produce these Testimonies , as tho I would ●●tain that our Lord Jesus was not dipped . It seems 〈◊〉 Conscience began to check him whilst he was writ●●● .

And again , in Pag. 25. Who speaks against the Anti●ity of Dipping ? I thought Mr. James had . But he goes 〈◊〉 , Dipping there might be in Christ's Time , and that the 〈◊〉 way of Baptizing . Very well , then it seems we pra●●●● the most Antient , and the best Way of Baptizing , Mr. James's Acknowledgment : And himself doth pra●●●● the contrary , and therefore must needs be self-con●●ed , as practising the worst Way ; especially if he 〈◊〉 consider , That there is neither Precept nor Precedent 〈◊〉 Infant-Sprinkling in all the Word of God .

But to close this Head I am upon : If this be true , that 〈◊〉 of the Apostles , nor first Ministers of the Gospel , 〈◊〉 ever practise the Sprinkling , of Infants ; there must 〈◊〉 some good Reason why they did it not : And the best 〈◊〉 think of is , because Christ had not commanded them 〈◊〉 do . But on the contrary , had commanded them to ●●ize Penitent Believers , which were Persons of grown ●●●s ; to which Command they were obedient .

And we have great Reason to account them saithful : 〈◊〉 the Apostle Paul protests , before an Assembly of Mi●ers , Acts 20.20 . He had kept back nothing that was ●●able to them . And in ver. 26. he saith , I have not shun●● to declare to you all the Counsel of God . If there●● the Sprinkling of Infants had been profitable for 〈◊〉 , or a part of the Counsel of God concerning the ●●ches , we had certainly heard of it in some of Paul's ●●eches or Epistles : But not one Word being mentioned about it , we may safely conclude , it was wholly unknown to those Times , ( both as to Subjects and Manner ) it ●●ing a Practice both unprofitable and vain , as being b●● upon Humane Authority only , having no Foundation 〈◊〉 the Word of God : In vain do they worship me , teaching 〈◊〉 Doctrines the Commandments of Men , Mat. 15.9 .

I will offer an Argument or two , to prove that Infan●

Sprinkling is not of Divine Authority .

The Sprinkling of Infants , is either from Heaven , 〈◊〉 of Men.

But it is not from Heaven : Ergo , It is of Men.

If it be from Heaven , the Holy Scriptures have so●● where revealed it so to be .

But it is no where so revealed in the Holy Scripture 〈◊〉 Ergo , It is not from Heaven .

If it be any where so revealed in the Holy Scripture you , or some other , are able to shew it .

But you , nor no other are able to shew it : Ergo , It 〈◊〉 not any where so revealed in the Holy Scriptures .

If Mr. James should tell you he can shew it so to b● let him give you an Instance where it is written , as al●● 〈◊〉 gician ought to do , ( the Minor being an Universal Negative ) or let him for ever be silent upon this Subject● For it is written , Rev. 22.18 . If any Man shall add 〈◊〉 these things , God shall add unto him the Plagues that are written in this Book .

I cannot well go off of this Head , without taking ●●●tice of a pernicious Notion which some of the Learned have espoused .

They will allow us that we are in the right , as to wh●●● we assert about the practice of the Primitive Churche● but tell us , that their Ceremonies may be lawfully u●● also , which they ground upon this following Supposition● That it is lawful for Men to bring in things indifferent into the Church , and join them with the Worship 〈◊〉 God .

And as this refers to the Point of Baptism , I will bri●ly relate what past some Years ago , betwixt Dr. Bail●● late Bishop of Lincoln , and my self . It was upon 〈◊〉 Occasion ; A Name-sake of mine being taken up upon a 〈◊〉 , and committed to Ailesbury Goal , for not having child sprinkled , I went to his Lordship ( after 〈◊〉 Months confinement ) to desire his Discharge ; ●old him , my Friend was not a Member of any ●●te Congregation , but only doubted of the 〈◊〉 of Infant-Baptism , which I supposed his ●●hip thought he might do , and yet be a good ●●ian .

〈◊〉 told me , Yes , for he had tumblings and tossings ●●●out it in his own Mind in his younger Days , but now 〈◊〉 was satisfied .

〈◊〉 desired then to know the Grounds of his Lordship's ●●●stion .

〈◊〉 said , The Apostle Paul , in Rom. 13. and the be●●ing . exhorted the Christians to submit to the ●●gher Powers , &c. And also the Apostle Peter said , 〈◊〉 your selves to every Ordinance of Man , for the ●●●●d's sake , &c. Now ( saith he ) you must know 〈◊〉 the Convocation met and concluded , that Infants ●ould be baptized ; and the King and Parliament en●●●ed it : And forasmuch as we are required to be obe●ent to every Ordinance of Man for the Lord's sake . ●herefore we ought to do it .

〈◊〉 answered ; My Lord , If the Convocation had so con●●d , and the King and Parliament so enacted , That 〈◊〉 should have been baptized in the King's Name , or ●he Name of the King and Parliament as Legislators , I ●ere those People might have complied with it .

〈◊〉 answered , " That would have been odd .

〈◊〉 reply'd , As odd as it is , if they had comply'd with it , 〈◊〉 Controversy had been at end .

He said , That is true ; But why cannot they comply 〈◊〉 with it now ?

My Lord , They have got a Notion in their Heads , that 〈◊〉 not in the Power of any Man , or number of Men in 〈◊〉 World , to alter the Nature of Institutions , so as to 〈◊〉 that Divine that is in it self Humane , or that Hu●●e that is in it self Divine .

The Bishop reply'd ; They are right in that , for none 〈◊〉 alter the Nature of things but God alone .

Why then , my Lord , forasmuch as you do not baptized Infants in the Name of the King , or King and Parliament as an Humane Institution , but in the Name of the Father Son , and Holy Spirit , as a Divine Institution , they cannot comply with it .

Well ( saith he ) there is never a Word of God against it : It is no where said in the Scriptures ye shal not baptize Infants .

I reply'd ;

My Lord , I shall only put your Lordship in mind of th● Notes of a Learned Man upon that of Lev. 10.1 , 2. concerning Nadab and Abihu , Sons of Aaron , Priests of the Lord ; who offered strange Fire before the Lord , which the Lord commanded them not . He saith , It is not sufficient to say about instituted Worship , It is nowhere forbidden : For it was nowhere said before this time ; 〈◊〉 shall not offer up strange Fire upon mine Altar . But because there was a Divine Precept , what Fire they should off●● what Perfume they should mix with their Sacrifices , an●● the manner of its Composition : And they not observing that Divine Precept ; but offering strange Fire , which th●● Lord commanded them not , they were destroyed by 〈◊〉 from his Presence . His Lordship only gave me this Answer ; He would speak to his Official , to be kind to 〈◊〉 Friend that was in Prison , &c. but wholly waved 〈◊〉 Matter in Controversy ; and so I took my leave , and departed .

I mention not this , as if I thought this Learned M●● singular in this Point ; for it is too manifest , that m●● others are of the same Sentiments , without which the could not satisfy their Consciences in the Practi●● of Infant sprinkling , and other things which they 〈◊〉 practise without either Precept or Precedent from 〈◊〉 Word of God .

There are many things very ridiculous , that have 〈◊〉 Degrees been brought into the Church ; of which it is 〈◊〉 where said in the Holy Scriptures , they shall not 〈◊〉 done . And that about this very Ordinance as well as 〈◊〉 other Matters .

As for instance ;

1. Where is it forbidden to baptize Bells ? This 〈◊〉〈◊〉 practised by the Popish Priests , and that very lately . 〈◊〉 . Where is it forbidden to use the Sign of the Cross Baptism ? as the Popish Priests do thrice , and the Epi●● once .

Where is it forbidden to use Cream and Spittle , as 〈◊〉 Papists do , to anoint the Childrens Eyes , Nostrils , 〈◊〉 Ears , in their Practice of Baptism ?

〈◊〉 Where is it forbidden to put Salt in the Child's ●●th , as they also do ? and give this Reason for it , 〈◊〉 his Words may be with Grace , seasoned with Salt .

And where is it forbidden to baptize your Cattle ? 〈◊〉 yet how ridiculous would it be so to do ? But perhaps 〈◊〉 James may pretend Scripture for it , from his Inter●●tion of 1 Corinth. 10.2 . For all their Cattle ( of ●ich they left not a Hoof behind ) were under the Cloud , 〈◊〉 all passed through the Sea ; and were all baptized unto Moses , 〈◊〉 the Cloud and in the Sea . The Word is 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , ●ich he leaves to Mr. Wells to interpret . And I pray ask 〈◊〉 if this Word , as here used in the passive Form , may 〈◊〉 be read thus ; And they were all overwhelmed unto 〈◊〉 , as they must needs be when the Cloud covered them , 〈◊〉 the Waters were a Wall to them on the Right-hand ●●on the left . So that you see here is the same Ground ●onclude , their Cattle were all baptized as well as their 〈◊〉 Children : But if the Word had been translated ●●●●whelmed , who could have dreamt of a Baptism from 〈◊〉 Place ?

But Mr. James will have it that there was a Multitude 〈◊〉 Children baptized by Moses , and that it was done by ●●inkling also , through the dropping of the Cloud , and 〈◊〉 dashing of the Waters ; and that many learned Men ●●●bt not of it ; but hath not quoted one of them . I am 〈◊〉 the Dutch Translators , who were Presbyterians , read 〈◊〉 thus ; Ende alle in Mosen Gedoopt Zin ; And they were ●●●●dipt unto Moses : And all learned Men do tell us , when 〈◊〉 speak as Scholars , that 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , is mergo , immergo ; 〈◊〉 how it comes to lose its Signification in this one 〈◊〉 , I cannot imagine .

But I pray ask Mr. James these few things ;

1. Who told him there was Water in that Cloud ? For the Epistle of Jude ver. 12. we read of Clouds without Water : and we must remember that this Cloud 〈◊〉 Miracle .

2. If it had Water , who told him that it droppe● the Children of Israel whilest they past through 〈◊〉 Sea ? His ipse dixit will not do where the Scri●● silent .

3. How came he to know that the Waters dash● them ? I cannot suppose that he was present to 〈◊〉 And if it be nowhere written , 't is but an impr●● Guess .

But to leave off these trisling Fancies of Mr. James us see how it is written , Exod. 14.21 . The L●●d the Sea dry Land , and the Waters were divided .

Ver. 22. And the Children of Israel went into the midst Sea upon the dry Ground , and the Waters were a Wall unto on their Right-hand and on their Left .

Ver. 29. And they walked upon dry Land in the midst Sea .

Chap. 15.8 . The Waters were gathered together Flood stood upright as an Heap , and the Depths were co●●● in the Heart of the Sea .

Psalm 106.9 . He rebuked the Red-sea also , and it wa●●ed up ; so he led them through the Depths as through the ●●●derness .

Thus you see here is not one Word of Sprinkling of dashing the Water upon them . As to the Cloud was no common Cloud , but a Cloud that did const● attend them in their passage through the Wilderness : Exod. 13.21 , 22. And the Lord went before them by D●●● Pillar of a Cloud , &c. He took not away the Pillar of Cloud by day , nor the Pillar of Fire by night , from 〈◊〉 the People . See also Numb. 14.14 . Now if the W●●● were a Wall on each side , and the Cloud covered th● then they must need be overwhelmed . Psalm 105. He spread a Cloud for a Covering , and Fire to give Light 〈◊〉 Night . But not one Word of this Cloud 's having Wat●● it , nor of its dropping upon them . What Cause have to be cautious , how you admit any thing for Truth upon Credit of your Teacher ; who can allow himself the ●●berty to talk at this loose Rate about sacred thi● Besides , if this he to be understood of Baptism as an O● 〈◊〉 according to the Use of the Word in the New 〈◊〉 then I affirm ( according to Mr. James's 〈◊〉 if their Infants were baptized , all their Cattle ●●wise baptized : But I hope he will be ashamed 〈◊〉 at such an Exposition ; for besides all other Ab●●● that attend it , Moses is hereby made the first ●●●er , and not John the Baptist . But I shall leave this , 〈◊〉 to the third and last general Head .

That the Ordinance of Baptism is now in being , 〈◊〉 is to continue to the End of the World .

〈◊〉 28.20 . Teaching them to observe all things what●● have commanded you ; and lo , I am with you alway , even 〈◊〉 End of the World .

〈◊〉 this Ordinance of Baptism in Water , being one ●●e things he hath commanded , as in the Words ●●●ing ; then the Apostles were to teach all the suc●●● Churches to observe it , they being to teach them ●●●e all things he had commanded them ; and to 〈◊〉 also the Promise of Christ's Presence is annexed until 〈◊〉 of the World : The Ordinance it self is therefore ●●●inue till that time .

〈◊〉 ●●des , it was the Care of the Apostles , not only to 〈◊〉 that present Age the Will of Christ , but also to 〈◊〉 it continued to succeeding Ages : see 2 Tim. 2.2 . 〈◊〉 Charge here to Timothy is , The things which thou hast 〈◊〉 of me among many Witnesses , the same commit thou to faith●● , who shall be able to teach others also . And our Lord 〈◊〉 to those faithful ones in Thyatyra , Rev. 2.24 , 25. 〈◊〉 put upon you none other Burden ; But that which ye have 〈◊〉 , hold fast till I come .

〈◊〉 seeing we differ not about its Duration , ( although 〈◊〉 about the Subjects , and the right Manner of ad●●ring the same ) I shall add no more upon this Head . 〈◊〉 been concerned with another sort of People , I should 〈◊〉 thought my self obliged to have insisted more largely 〈◊〉 it .

〈◊〉 beseech you consider what I have said ; for it is in 〈◊〉 Love to your Precious Souls ; that you may no longer be deceived by false Teachers who handle 〈◊〉 of God deceitfully : But that you may come to 〈◊〉 the true Doctrine of the Gospel , and imbrace 〈◊〉 which was once delivered to the Saints ; wh●● first spoken by the Lord himself , and confirme 〈◊〉 and Wonders , and divers Miracles and Gifts o● Spirit , according to his own Will.

For there is but one Law-giver to the Chur●● him who is able to save and to destroy : He● all things whatsoever he hath said unto you . Footsteps of the primitive and Apostolick Chur●● that is the right Path , and the good old Way ; 〈◊〉 in , and ye shall find rest for your Souls . Com● the Word that Christ hath spoken , that shall the last Day . The Lord help every one of joy the Light of the Glorious Gospel , to be fo●● thereunto , that so we may receive that blesled Well done good and faithful Servant , enter thou into thy Lord .

FINIS .