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Robert Barclay > Apology for the True
Christian Divinity > Proposition 12: Concerning Baptism
THE TWELFTH PROPOSITION
Concerning Baptism
As there is one Lord and one faith, so there is one baptism, which is not the putting
away the filth of the flesh but the answer of a good conscience before God, by the resurrection of
Jesus Christ, and this baptism is a pure and spiritual thing, to wit, the
baptism of the Spirit and fire, by which we are buried with him, that being washed and purged
from our sins, we may walk in newness of life; of which the baptism of John was a figure which
was commanded for a time and not to continue for ever; as to the baptism of infants it is a mere
human tradition for which neither precept nor practice is to be found in all the Scripture.a
§I. I did sufficiently demonstrate, in the explanation and
probation of the former Proposition, how greatly the professors of Christianity, as well
Protestants as Papists, were degenerated in the matter of worship, and how much strangers to,
and averse from that true and acceptable worship that is performed in the Spirit of Truth, because
of man's natural propensity, in his fallen state, to exalt his own inventions, and to intermix his own
work and product in the service of God; and from this root sprung all the idle worships, idolatries,
and numerous superstitious inventions among the heathens. For when God, in condescension to
his chosen people, the Jews, did prescribe to them by his servant Moses many ceremonies and
observations, as types and shadows of the substance which in due time was to be revealed, which
consisted for the most part in washings, outward purifications and cleansings, which were to
continue until the time of the reformation, until the spiritual worship should be set up, and that
God, by the more powerful1 pouring forth
of his Spirit and guiding of that anointing, which was to lead his children "into all
Truth," and teach them to worship him in a way more spiritual and acceptable to him,
though less agreeable to the carnal and outward senses: notwithstanding God's condescension to
the Jews in such things we see that part in man which delights to follow its own inventions could
not be restrained, nor yet satisfied with all these observations, but that oftentimes they would be
either declining to the other superstitions of the Gentiles, or adding some
new observations and ceremonies of their own, to which they were so devoted that they were still
apt to prefer them before the commands of God, and that under the notion of zeal and piety. This
we see abundantly in the example of the Pharisees, the chiefest sect among the Jews, whom Christ
so frequently reproves for "making void the commandments of God by their
traditions" (Matt. 15:6,9, &c). This complaint may at this day be no less justly made
as to many bearing the name of Christians, who have introduced many things of this kind, partly
borrowed from the Jews, which they more tenaciously stick to and more earnestly contend for
than for the weightier points of Christianity: because that self, yet alive and ruling in them, loves
their own inventions better than God's commands. But if they can by any means stretch any
Scripture practice or conditional precept or permission, fitted to the weakness or capacity of
some, or appropriate to some particular dispensation, to give some color for any of these their
inventions, they do then so tenaciously stick to them, and so obstinately and obstreperously plead
for them, that they will not patiently hear the most solid Christian reasons against them. Which
zeal, if they would but seriously examine it, they would find to be but the prejudice of education
and the love of self more than of God or his pure worship. This is verified concerning those
things which are called "sacraments," about which they are very ignorant in religious
controversies who understand not how much debate, contention, jangling and quarrelling there
has been among those called Christians, so that I may safely say, the controversy about them, to
wit, about their number, nature, virtue, efficacy, administration and other things, hath been more
than about any other doctrine of Christ, whether as betwixt Papists and Protestants or among
Protestants betwixt themselves, and how great prejudice these controversies have brought to
Christians is very obvious, whereas the things contended for among them are for the most part but
empty shadows and mere outside things, as I hope hereafter to make appear to the patient and
unprejudicate reader.
§II. That which comes first under observation is the
name "sacrament," which is strange that Christians should stick to and contend so
much for; since it is not to be found in all the Scripture, but was borrowed
from the military oaths among the heathens, from whom the Christians, when they began to
apostatize, did borrow many superstitious terms and observations, that they might thereby
ingratiate themselves and the more easily gain the heathens to their religion, which practice
(though perhaps intended by them for good, yet as being the fruit of human policy and not
according to God's wisdom) has had very pernicious consequences. I see not how any, whether
Papists or Protestants, especially the latter, can in reason quarrel us for denying this term, which it
seems the Spirit of God saw not meet to inspire the penmen of the Scriptures to leave unto
us.
Obj. But if it be said that it is not the name but the thing they contend for:
Answ. I answer, let the name then, as not being Scriptural, be laid aside, and we
shall see at first entrance how much benefit will redound by laying aside this traditional term and
betaking us to plainness of Scripture language, for presently the great contest about the number of
them will vanish: since there is no term used in Scripture that can be made use of, whether we call
them "institutions," "ordinances," "precepts,"
"commandments," "appointments" or "laws," &c., that
would afford ground for such a debate, since neither will Papists affirm that there are only seven,
or Protestants only two, of any of these aforementioned.
Obj. If it be said that this controversy arises from the definition of the thing as well
as from the name:
Answ. It will be found otherwise, for whatever way we take their definition of a
"sacrament," whether as an "outward visible sign whereby inward grace is
conferred," or only "signified." This definition will agree to many things which
neither Papists nor Protestants will acknowledge to be sacraments. If they be expressed under the
name of "sealing ordinances," as some do, I could never see neither by reason nor
Scripture how this title could be appropriate to them, more than to any other Christian religious
performance: for that must needs properly be "a sealing ordinance," which makes the
persons receiving it infallibly certain of the promise, or thing sealed to them.
Obj. If it be said it is so to them that are faithful;
Answ. I answer, so is praying and preaching, and doing of every good work. Seeing the partaking, or performing of the one gives not to
any a more certain title to heaven, yea (in some respect) not so much, there is no reason to call
them so more than the other.
Besides, we find not anything called the "seal" and "pledge" of
our inheritance but the Spirit of God; it is by that we are said to be sealed (Eph. 1:14 and 4:30),
which is also termed the "earnest of our inheritance" (2 Cor. 1:22), and not by
outward water, or eating and drinking; which as the wickedest of men may partake of, so many
that do, do notwithstanding it go to perdition; for it is not outward washing with water that
maketh the heart clean, by which men are fitted for heaven; and as "that which goeth into
the mouth doth not defile a man, because it is put forth again" and so goeth to the dunghill,
neither doth anything which man eateth purify him or fit him for heaven. What is said here in
general may serve for an introduction not only to this Proposition but also to the other,
concerning the Supper. Of these "sacraments" (so called) baptism is always first
numbered, which is the subject of the present proposition, in whose explanation I shall first
demonstrate and prove our judgment and then answer the objections and refute the sentiments of
our opposers. As to the first part, these things following, which are briefly comprehended in the
proposition, come to be proposed and proved.
§III. First, that there is but one baptism, as well as but
one Lord, one faith, &c.
Secondly, that this one baptism, which is the baptism of Christ, is not a washing with, or
dipping in, water, but a being baptized by the Spirit.
Thirdly, that the baptism of John was but a figure of this, and therefore, as the figure (to
give place to the substance) which, though it be to continue, yet the other is ceased.
As for the first, viz., "that there is but one baptism," there needs no other
proof than the words of the text (Eph. 4:5): "One Lord, one faith, one baptism";
where the apostle positively and plainly affirms, that as there is but one body, one Spirit, one faith,
one God, &c., so there is but one baptism.
Obj. As to what is commonly alleged by way of explanation upon the text, that the
baptism of water and of the Spirit make up this one baptism, by virtue of the
sacramental union.
Answ. I answer, This exposition hath taken place not because grounded upon the
testimony of the Scripture but because it wrests the Scripture to make it suit to their principle of
water baptism, and so there needs no other reply but to deny it, as being repugnant to the plain
words of the text, which saith not that there are two baptisms, to wit, one of water, the other of
the Spirit, which do make up one baptism, but plainly, that there is "one baptism," as
there is "one faith" and "one God." Now there goeth not two faiths, nor
two Gods, nor two Spirits, nor two bodies, whereof the one is outward and elementary and the
other spiritual and pure, to the making up of the one faith, the one God, the one body, and the one
Spirit; so neither ought there to go two baptisms to make up the one baptism.
Obj. But secondly, if it be said the baptism is but one, whereof water is the one
part, to wit, the sign; and the Spirit, the thing signified, the other.
Answ. I answer, this yet more confirmeth our doctrine, for, if water be only the
sign, it is not the matter of the one baptism (as shall further hereafter by its definition in Scripture
appear), and we are to take the one baptism for the matter of it, not for the sign, or figure and
type, that went before, even as where Christ is called the "one offering" in Scripture
though he was typified by many sacrifices and offerings under the Law, we understand only by the
one offering, his offering himself upon the cross, whereof though those many offerings were
figures and types, yet we say not that they go together with that offering of Christ to make up the
one offering; so neither, though water baptism was a sign of Christ's baptism, will it follow that it
goeth now to make up the baptism of Christ. If any should be so absurd as to affirm that this one
baptism here were the baptism of water and not of the Spirit, that were foolishly to contradict the
positive testimony of the Scripture, which saith the contrary, as by what followeth will more
amply appear.
Secondly, that this one baptism, which is the baptism of Christ, is not a washing with
water, appears, first, from the testimony of John, the proper and peculiar administrator of water
baptism (Matt. 3:11), "I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance; but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am
not worthy to bear; he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire." Here John
mentions two manners of baptizings and two different baptisms, the one with water, and the other
with the Spirit, the one whereof he was the minister of, the other whereof Christ was the minister
of: and such as were baptized with the first were not therefore baptized with the second: "I
indeed baptize you, but he shall baptize you." Though in the present time they were
baptized with the baptism of water, yet they were not as yet, but were to be, baptized with the
baptism of Christ. From all which I thus argue,
Arg. 1. If those that were baptized with the baptism of water were not therefore
baptized with the baptism of Christ, then the baptism of water is not the baptism of Christ:
But the first is true;
Therefore also the last.
And again,
Arg. 2. If he that truly and really administered the baptism of water did
notwithstanding declare that he neither could nor did baptize with the baptism of Christ, then the
baptism of water is not the baptism of Christ:
But the first is true:
Therefore, &c.
And indeed to understand it otherwise would make John's words void of good sense; for if
their baptisms had been all one, why should he have so precisely contradistinguished them? Why
should he have said that those whom he had already baptized should yet be baptized by another
baptism?
Obj. If it be urged that baptism with water was the one part and that with the
Spirit the other part, or effect only of the former.
I answer: this exposition contradicts the plain words of the text: for he saith not, I baptize
you with water and he that cometh after shall produce the effects of this my baptism in you by the
Spirit, &c., or he shall accomplish this baptism in you; but "he shall baptize you."
So then, if we understand the words truly and properly when he saith, "I baptize
you," as consenting that thereby is really signified that he did baptize with the baptism of water, we must needs, unless we offer violence to the text,
understand the other part of the sentence the same way; that where he adds presently, "But
he shall baptize you," &c., that he understood it of their being truly to be baptized with
another baptism than what he did baptize with; else it had been nonsense for him thus to have
contradistinguished them.
Secondly, This is further confirmed by the saying of Christ himself (Acts 1:4-5)—
"But wait for the promise of the Father, which," saith he "ye have heard of me:
for John truly baptized with water, but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost, not many days
hence." There can scarce two places of Scripture run more parallel, than this doth with the
former, a little before mentioned, and therefore concludeth the same way, as did the other. For
Christ here grants fully, that John completed his baptism, as to the matter and substance of it:
"John," saith he, "truly baptized with water," which is as much, as if he
had said, John did truly and fully administer the baptism of water; "But ye shall be baptized
with," &c. This showeth that they were to be baptized with some other baptism, than
the baptism of water, and that, although they were formerly baptized with the baptism of water,
yet not with that of Christ, which they were to be baptized with.
Thirdly, Peter observes the same distinction (Acts 11:16): "Then remembered I the
word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with
the Holy Ghost." The apostle makes this application upon the Holy Ghost's falling upon
them. Whence he infers, that they were then baptized with the baptism of the Spirit. As to what
is urged from his calling afterwards for water, to it shall be hereafter spoken to. From all which
three sentences relative one to another, first of John, secondly of Christ, and thirdly of Peter, it
doth evidently follow, that such, as were truly and really baptized with the baptism of water; were
notwithstanding not baptized with the baptism of the Spirit; which is that of Christ; and such as
truly and really did administer the baptism of water, did, in so doing not administer the baptism of
Christ, so that if there be now but one baptism, as we have already proved, we may safely
conclude, that it is that of the Spirit, and not of water; else it would follow, that the one baptism,
which now continues, were the baptism of water, i.e., John's baptism, and
not the baptism of the Spirit, i.e., Christ's; which were most absurd.
Obj. If it be said further, that though the baptism of John, before Christ's was
administered, was different from it, as being the figure only, yet now that both it, as the figure,
and that of the Spirit, as the substance, is necessary to make up the one baptism:
Answ. I answer: this urgeth nothing, unless it be granted also that both of them
belong to the essence of baptism, so that baptism is not to be accounted as truly administered
where both are not: which none of our adversaries will acknowledge, but on the contrary account
not only all those truly baptized with the baptism of Christ who are baptized with water, though
they be uncertain whether they be baptized with the Spirit or not; but they even account such truly
baptized with the baptism of Christ because sprinkled or baptized with water, though it be
manifest and most certain that they are not baptized with the Spirit, as being enemies thereunto in
their hearts, by wicked works. So here, by their own confession, baptism with water is without
the Spirit: wherefore we may far safer conclude that the baptism of the Spirit, which is that of
Christ, is and may be without that of water, as appears in that of Acts 11:15, where Peter testifies
of these men that they were baptized with the Spirit, though not then baptized with water; and
indeed the controversy in this, as in most other things, stands betwixt us and our opposers, in that
they not only oftentimes prefer the form and shadow to the power and substance, by
denominating persons as inheritors and possessors of the thing from their having the form and
shadow, though really wanting the power and substance; and not admitting those to be so
denominated who have the power and substance, if they want the form and shadow. This appears
evidently in that they account those truly baptized with the one baptism of Christ who are not
baptized with the Spirit, which in Scripture is particularly called the baptism of Christ, if they be
only baptized with water, which themselves yet confess to be but the shadow or figure. And
moreover, in that they account not those who are surely baptized with the baptism of the Spirit,
baptized, neither will they have them so denominated unless they be also sprinkled with, or dipped
in water. But we, on the contrary, do always prefer the power to the form,
the substance to the shadow; and where the substance and power is we doubt not to denominate
the person accordingly, though the form be wanting; and therefore we always seek first and plead
for the substance and power, as knowing that to be indispensably necessary, though the form
sometimes may be dispensed with, and the figure or type may cease when the substance and
antitype comes to be enjoyed, as it doth in this case, which shall hereafter be made appear.
§IV. Fourthly, that the one baptism of Christ is not a
washing with water, appears from 1 Pet. 3:21: "The like figure whereunto, even baptism,
doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh but the answer of a good
conscience towards God) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ." So plain a definition of
baptism is not in all the Bible, and therefore, seeing it is so plain, it may well be preferred to all the
coined definitions of the schoolmen. The apostle tells us, first, negatively, what it is not, viz.
"not a putting away of the filth of the flesh," then surely it is not a washing with
water, since that is so. Secondly, he tells us, affirmatively, what it is, viz., "the answer of a
good conscience toward God, by the resurrection of Jesus Christ"; where he affirmatively
defines it to be the "answer" (or "confession," as the Syriac version hath
it) "of a good conscience." Now this answer cannot be but where the Spirit of God
hath purified the soul and the fire of his judgment hath burned up the unrighteous nature; and
those in whom this work is wrought may be truly said to be baptized with the baptism of Christ,
i.e., "of the Spirit and of fire." Whatever way then we take this definition of the
apostle of Christ's baptism, it confirmeth our sentence; for if we take the first or negative part,
viz., "that it is not a putting away of the filth of the flesh," then it will follow that
water baptism is not it, because that is a putting away of the filth of the flesh. If we take the
second and affirmative definition, to wit, that it is the "answer" or "confession
of a good conscience," &c., then water-baptism is not it; since, as our adversaries will
not deny, water baptism doth not always imply it, neither is it any necessary consequence thereof.
Moreover the apostle, in this place, doth seem especially to guard against those that might esteem
water-baptism the true baptism of Christ; because (lest by the comparison
induced by him, in the preceding verse betwixt the souls that were saved in Noah's ark, and us
that are now saved by baptism, lest, I say, any should have thence hastily concluded, that because
the former were saved by water this place must needs be taken to speak of water-baptism) to
prevent such a mistake, he plainly affirms that it is not that, but another thing. He saith not, that it
is the water, or the putting away of the filth of the flesh, as accompanied with the answer of a
good conscience, whereof the one, viz. water, is the sacramental element administered by the
minister, and the other, the grace or thing signified, conferred by Christ; but plainly, that it is
"not the putting away," &c., than which there can be nothing more manifest to
men unprejudicate and judicious. Moreover, Peter calls this here, which saves, 
, the "antitype" or the thing
figured, whereas it is usually translated as if the like figure did now save us, thereby insinuating,
that, as they were saved by water in the ark, so are we now by water-baptism. But this
interpretation crosseth his sense, he presently after declaring the contrary, as hath above been
observed: and likewise it would contradict the opinion of all our opposers. For Protestants deny
it to be absolutely necessary to salvation. And though Papists say none are saved without it, yet
in this they admit an exception, as of martyrs, &c., and they will not say that all that have it
are saved by water baptism:2 for seeing we
are saved by this baptism, as those that were in the ark were "saved by water," and
that all those that were in the ark were saved by water, it would then follow that all those that
have this baptism are saved by it. Now this consequence would be false if it were understood of
water-baptism; because many, by the confession of all, are baptized with water that are not saved,
but this consequence holds most true if it be understood as we do, of the baptism of the Spirit,
since none can have this answer of a good conscience, and, abiding in it, not be saved by it.
Fifthly, that the one baptism of Christ is not a washing with water, as it hath been proved
by the definition of the one baptism, so it is also manifest from the necessary fruits and effects of
it, which are three times particularly expressed by the apostle Paul; as first
(Rom. 6:3-4), where he saith that "so many of them as were baptized into Jesus Christ were
baptized into his death, buried with him by baptism into death, that they should walk in newness
of life." Secondly, to the Galatians (3:27), he saith positively, "For as many of you as
have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ," and thirdly, to the Colossians (2:12), he
saith that they were "buried with him in baptism," and "risen with him through
the faith of the operation of God." It is to be observed here that the apostle speaks
generally, without any exclusive term, but comprehensive of all; he saith not, "some of you
that were baptized into Christ have put on Christ," but "as many of you," which
is as much as if he had said, every one of you that hath been baptized into Christ hath put on
Christ. Whereby it is evident that this is not meant of water-baptism, but of the baptism of the
Spirit; because else it would follow that whosoever had been baptized with water-baptism had put
on Christ and were risen with him, which all acknowledge to be most absurd. Now supposing all
the visible members of the churches of Rome, Galatia, and Colossae had been outwardly baptized
with water (I do not say they were, but our adversaries will not only readily grant it, but also
contend for it), suppose, I say, the case so, they will not say they had all put on Christ, since
divers expressions, in these epistles to them, show the contrary: so that the apostle can not mean
baptism with water, and yet that he meaneth the baptism of Christ, i.e., of the Spirit, cannot be
denied; or that the baptism wherewith these were baptized (of whom the apostle here testifies that
they had put on Christ) was the one baptism, I think none will call in question. Now admit, as our
adversaries contend, that many in these churches who had been baptized with water had not put
on Christ, it will follow that notwithstanding that water baptism they were not baptized into
Christ, or with the baptism of Christ, seeing as many of them as were baptized into Christ had put
on Christ, &c. From all which I thus argue:
Arg. 1. If the baptism with water were the one baptism, i.e., the baptism of Christ,
as many as were baptized with water would have put on Christ:
But the last is false,
Therefore also the first.
And again,
Arg. 2. Since "as many as are baptized into Christ," i.e., with the
"one baptism" which is the baptism of Christ, "have put on Christ," then
water baptism is not the one baptism, viz. the baptism of Christ.
But the first is true,
Therefore also the last.
§V. Thirdly, since John's baptism was a figure, and
seeing the figure gives way to the substance, albeit the thing figured remain, to wit, the one
baptism of Christ, yet the other ceaseth, which was the baptism of John.
That John's baptism was a figure of Christ's baptism, I judge will not readily be denied: but
in case it should it can easily be proved from the nature of it: John's baptism was a being baptized
with water, but Christ's is a baptizing with the Spirit. Therefore John's baptism must have been a
figure of Christ's. But further, that water baptism was John's baptism will not be denied; that
water baptism is not Christ's baptism is already proved. From which doth arise the confirmation
of our proposition thus:
Arg. There is no baptism to continue now but the one baptism of Christ:
Therefore water baptism is not to continue now, because it is not the baptism of
Christ.
That John's baptism is ceased many of our adversaries confess; but if any should allege it is
otherwise it may be easily proved by the express words of John, not only as being insinuated
there, where he contradistinguisheth his baptism from that of Christ, but particularly where he
saith (John 3:30), "He" (Christ) "must increase but I" (John) "must
decrease." From whence it clearly follows that the increasing or taking place of Christ's
baptism is the decreasing or abolishing of John's baptism; so that if water-baptism was a particular
part of John's ministry and is no part of Christ's baptism, as we have already proved, it will
necessarily follow that it is not to continue.
Arg. Secondly, if water baptism had been to continue a perpetual ordinance of
Christ in his church, he would either have practised it himself or commanded his apostles so to
do.
But that he practised it not, the scripture plainly affirms (John 4:2).
And that he commanded his disciples to baptize with water, I could never yet read. As for what is
alleged, that Matt. 28:19, &c. (where he bids them baptize) is to be understood of
water-baptism, that is but to beg the question, and the grounds for that shall be hereafter
examined.
Therefore, to baptize with water is no perpetual ordinance of Christ to his Church.
This hath had the more weight with me, because I find not any standing ordinance or
appointment of Christ, necessary to Christians, for which we have not either Christ's own practice
or command, as to obey all the commandments, which comprehend both our duty towards God
and man, &c. and where the Gospel requires more than the Law, which is abundantly
signified in the 5th and 6th chapters of Matthew, and elsewhere. Besides, as to the duties of
worship, he exhorts us to meet, promising his presence, commands to pray, preach, watch,
&c. and gives precepts concerning some temporary things, as the washing of one another's
feet, the breaking of bread (hereafter to be discussed), only for this one thing of baptizing with
water (though so earnestly contended for) we find not any precept of Christ.
§VI. But to make water baptism a necessary institution
of the Christian religion, which is pure and spiritual, and not carnal and ceremonial, is to derogate
from the New Covenant dispensation and set up the legal rites and ceremonies of which this of
baptism, or washing with water, was one, as appears from Heb. 9:10, where the apostle speaking
thereof saith that "it stood only in meats and drinks, and divers baptisms,3 and carnal ordinances imposed until
the time of reformation." If then the time of reformation, or the dispensation of the Gospel,
which puts an end to the shadows, be come, then such baptisms and carnal ordinances are no
more to be imposed. For how baptism with water comes now to be a spiritual ordinance, more
than before in the time of the Law, doth not appear: seeing it is but water still, and a washing of
the outward man, and a putting away of the filth of the flesh still; and as before those that were so
washed were not thereby made perfect, as pertaining to the conscience,
neither are they at this day, as our adversaries must needs acknowledge and experience
abundantly showeth. So that the matter of it, which is a washing with water, and the effect of it,
which is only an outward cleansing, being still the same, how comes water-baptism to be less a
carnal ordinance now than before?
Obj. If it be said, That God confers inward grace upon some that are now
baptized:
Answ. So no doubt he did also upon some that used those baptisms among the
Jews.
Obj. Or if it be said, because it is commanded by Christ now, under the New
Covenant:
Answ. I answer, first, that is to beg the question, of which hereafter.
But secondly, we find that where the matter of ordinances is the same, and the end the
same, they are never accounted more or less spiritual because of their different times. Now was
not God the author of the purifications and baptisms under the Law? Was not water the matter of
them, which is so now? Was not the end of them to signify an inward purifying by an outward
washing? And is not that alleged to be the end still? And are the necessary effects or
consequences of it any better now than before, since men are now by the virtue of water-baptism,
as a necessary consequence of it, no more than before made inwardly clean? And if some by
God's grace, that are baptized with water, are inwardly purified, so were some also under the
Law; so that this is not any necessary consequence nor effect, neither of this nor that baptism; it is
then plainly repugnant to right reason, as well as to the Scripture testimony, to affirm that to be a
spiritual ordinance now which was a carnal ordinance before. If it be still the same both as to its
author, matter, and end, however made to vary in some small circumstances. The spirituality of
the New Covenant and of its worship established by Christ consisted not in such superficial
alterations of circumstances, but after another manner, therefore let our adversaries show us if
they can (without begging the question and building upon some one or other of their own
principles denied by us) where ever Christ appointed or ordained any institution or observation
under the New Covenant, as belonging to the nature of it, or such a
necessary part of its worship as is perpetually to continue, which being one in substance and
effects (I speak of necessary, not accidental effects), yet because of some small difference in form
or circumstance was before carnal, notwithstanding it was commanded by God under the Law,
but now is become spiritual, because commanded by Christ under the Gospel? And if they can not
do this, then if water-baptism was once a carnal ordinance, as the apostle positively affirms it to
have been, it remains a carnal ordinance still; and if a carnal ordinance then no necessary part of
the Gospel or New Covenant dispensation; and if no necessary part of it, then not needful to
continue nor to be practised by such as live and walk under this dispensation. But in this, as in
most other things (according as we have often observed), our adversaries Judaize, and renouncing
the glorious and spiritual privileges of the New Covenant are sticking in, and cleaving to the
rudiments of the Old, both in doctrine and worship, as being more suited and agreeable to their
carnal apprehensions and natural senses. But we, on the contrary, travail above all to lay hold
upon and cleave unto the Light of the glorious Gospel revealed unto us. And the harmony of the
Truth we profess in this may appear, by briefly observing how in all things we follow the spiritual
Gospel of Christ, as contradistinguished from the carnality of the legal dispensation; while our
adversaries, through rejecting this Gospel, are still labouring under the burden of the Law, which
neither they nor their fathers were able to bear.
For the Law and rule of the Old Covenant, and Jews, was outward, written in tables of
stone and parchments. So also is that of our adversaries. But the Law of the New Covenant is
inward and perpetual, written in the heart; so is ours.
The worship of the Jews was outward and carnal, limited to set times, places and persons,
and performed according to set prescribed forms and observations; so is that of our adversaries.
But the worship of the New Covenant is neither limited to time, place, nor person, but is
performed in the Spirit and in Truth; and it is not acted according to set forms and prescriptions,
but as the Spirit of God immediately acts, moves, and leads, whether it be to preach, pray, or sing;
and such is also our worship.
So likewise the baptism among the Jews under the Law was an
outward washing with outward water, only to typify an inward purification of the soul, which did
not necessarily follow upon those that were thus baptized; but the baptism of Christ under the
Gospel is the baptism of the Spirit and of fire, "not the putting away of the filth of the flesh,
but the answer of a good conscience towards God," and such is the baptism that we labour
to be baptized withal and contend for.
§VII. Arg. But again, if water baptism had
been an ordinance of the gospel, then the apostle Paul would have been sent to administer it, but
he declares positively (1 Cor. 1:17), "That Christ sent him not to baptize, but to preach the
gospel." The reason of that consequence is undeniable, because the apostle Paul's
commission was as large as that of any of them; and consequently he being in special manner the
apostle of Christ to the Gentiles, if water baptism (as our adversaries contend) be to be accounted
the badge of Christianity, he had more need than any of the rest to be sent to baptize with water,
that he might mark the Gentiles converted by him, with that Christian sign. But indeed the reason
holds better thus, that since Paul was the apostle of the Gentiles, and that in his ministry he doth
through all (as by his epistles appears) labour, to wean them from the former Jewish ceremonies
and observations (though in so doing he was sometimes undeservedly judged by others of his
brethren, who were unwilling to lay aside those ceremonies) therefore his commission (though as
full as to the preaching of the Gospel and New Covenant dispensation as that of the other
apostles) did not require of him that he should lead those converts into such Jewish observations
and baptisms; however that practice was indulged in and practised by the other apostles among
their Jewish proselytes, for which cause he "thanks God that he had baptized so few":b intimating that what he did
therein, he did not by virtue of his apostolic commission but rather in condescension to their
weakness, even as, at another time, he circumcised Timothy.
Obj. Our adversaries, to evade the Truth of this testimony, usually allege, that by
this is only to be understood, that he was not sent principally to baptize, not
that he was not sent at all.
Answ. But this exposition, since it contradicts the positive words of the text, and
has no better foundation than the affirmation of its assertors, is justly rejected as spurious, until
they bring some better proof for it; he saith not, I was not sent principally to baptize, but, "I
was not sent to baptize."
Confir. As for what they urge, by way of confirmation from other places of
Scripture, where "not" is to be so taken, as where it is said, "I will have mercy,
and not sacrifice,"c which is to be
understood that God requires principally mercy, not excluding sacrifices:
Refut. I say this place is abundantly explained by the following words, "and
the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings"; by which it clearly appears that burnt
offerings, which are one with sacrifices, are not excluded, but there is no such word, added in that
of Paul, and therefore the parity is not demonstrated to be alike, and consequently the instance not
sufficient, unless they can prove that it ought so to be admitted here: else we might interpret, by
the same rule, all other places of Scripture the same way, as where the apostle saith (1 Cor. 2:5),
"that your faith might not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God," it
might be understood, it shall not stand principally so. How might the Gospel, by this liberty of
interpretation, be perverted?
Obj. If it be said that the abuse of this baptism among the Corinthians, in dividing
themselves according to the persons by whom they were baptized, made the apostle speak so, but
that the abuse of a thing doth not abolish it.
Answ. I answer, it is true, it doth not, provided the thing be lawful and necessary;
and that, no doubt, the abuse abovesaid gave the apostle occasion so to write. But let it, from
this, be considered, how the apostle excludes baptizing, not preaching, though the abuse (mark)
proceeded from that, less than from the other. For these Corinthians did denominate themselves
from those different persons by whose preaching (as well as from those by whom they were
baptized) they were converted, as by the 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th verses of
the third chapter may appear: and yet for to remove that abuse, the apostle doth not say he was
not sent to preach, nor yet doth he rejoice that he had only preached to a few; because preaching,
being a standing ordinance in the Church, is not, because of any abuse that the devil may tempt
any to make of it, to be forborne by such as are called to perform it by the Spirit of God.
Wherefore the apostle accordingly (3:8-9) informs them, as to that, how to remove that abuse; but
as to water-baptism, for that it was no standing ordinance of Christ, but only practised as in
condescension to the Jews, & by some apostles to some Gentiles also, there so soon as the
apostle perceived the abuse of, he let the Corinthians understand how little stress was to be laid
upon it, by showing them that he was glad that he had administered this ceremony to so few of
them, and by telling them plainly that it was no part of his commission, neither that which he was
sent to administer.
Quest. Some ask us how we know that baptizing here is meant of water, and not
of the Spirit, which if it be, then it will exclude baptism of the Spirit, as well as of water.
Answ. I answer, such as ask the question, I suppose, speak it not as doubting that
this was said of water-baptism, which is more than manifest: for since the apostle Paul's message
was "to turn people from darkness to Light, and convert them to God"; and that as
many as are thus turned and converted (so as to have "the answer of a good conscience
towards God," and to have "put on Christ," and be "risen with him in
newness of life") are baptized with the baptism of the Spirit. But who will say that only
these few mentioned there to be baptized by Paul were come to this? Or that to turn or bring
them to this condition, was not (even admitting our adversaries' interpretation) as principal a part
of Paul's ministry as any other? Since then our adversaries do take this place for water-baptism
(as indeed it is), we may lawfully, taking it so also, urge it upon them. Why the word
"baptism" and "baptizing" is used by the apostle, where that of water, and
not of the Spirit, is only understood shall hereafter be spoken to. I come now to consider the
reasons alleged by such as plead for water-baptism, which are also the objections used against the
discontinuance of it.
§VIII.4 First, some object that Christ, who had the Spirit above
measure, was notwithstanding baptized with water.d As Nic. Arnold, against this thesis, Sect. 46 of his Theological
Exercitation.
I answer, so was he also circumcised; it will not follow from thence that circumcision is to
continue; for it behoved Christ to fulfill all righteousness, not only the ministry of John, but the
Law also. Therefore did he observe the Jewish feasts and rites, and kept the passover: it will not
thence follow that Christians ought to do so now; and therefore Christ (Matt. 3:15) gives John
this reason of his being baptized, desiring him to "suffer it to be so now": whereby he
sufficiently intimates that he intended not thereby to perpetuate it as an ordinance to his
disciples.
Obj. Secondly, they object (Matt. 28:19): "Go ye therefore and teach all
nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy
Ghost."
Answ. This is the great objection, and upon which they build the whole
superstructure, whereunto the first general and sound answer is, by granting the whole, but
putting them to prove that water is here meant, since the text is silent of it. And though in reason
it be sufficient upon our part that we concede the whole expressed in the place, but deny that it is
by water, which is an addition to the text, yet I shall premise some reasons why we do so, and
then consider the reasons alleged by those that will have water to be here understood.
Arg. The first is a maxim yielded to by all, that we ought not to go from literal
signification of the text, except some urgent necessity force us thereunto:
But no urgent necessity in this place forceth us thereunto:
Therefore we ought not to go from it.
Arg. Secondly, that baptism, which Christ commanded his apostles, was the
"one baptism," id est, his own baptism;
But the "one baptism," which is Christ's baptism, is not with water, we have already proved:
Therefore the baptism commanded by Christ to his apostles was not water-baptism.
Arg. Thirdly, that baptism, which Christ commanded his apostles was such that as
many as were therewith baptized did "put on Christ";
But this is not true of water-baptism:
Therefore, &c.
Fourthly, the baptism commanded by Christ to his apostles was not John's baptism:
But baptism with water was John's baptism:
Therefore, &c.
Allegation: But first, they allege, that Christ's baptism, though a baptism with
water, did differ from John's, because John only baptized with water unto repentance, but Christ
commands his disciples to baptize in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, reckoning, that
in this form, there lieth a great difference betwixt the baptism of John and that of Christ.
Answ. I answer, as to that John's baptism was unto repentance, the difference lieth
not there, because so is Christ's also; for our adversaries will not deny but that adult persons that
are to be baptized ought, ere they be admitted to it, to repent and confess their sins, yea and that
infants, with a respect to and consideration of their baptism, ought to repent and confess: so that
the difference lieth not here, since this of repentance and confession agrees as well to Christ's as
to John's baptism. But in this our adversaries are divided: for Calvin will have Christ's and John's
to be all one (Inst. lib. 4, cap. 15, sect. 7,8). Yet they do differ, and the difference
is in that the one is by water, the other not, &c.
Secondly, as to what Christ saith in commanding them to "baptize in the Name of
the Father, Son, and Spirit," I confess that states the difference, & it is great; but that
lies not only in admitting water-baptism in this different form, by a bare expressing of these
words: for as the text saith no such thing, neither do I see how it can be inferred from it. For the
Greek is 
, that is, "into the name"; now the name
of the Lord is often taken in Scripture for something else than a bare sound of words or literal expression, even for his virtue and power, as may appear from
Ps. 54:1, Cant. 1:3, Prov. 18:10, and in many more. Now that the apostles were, by their
ministry, to baptize the nations into this Name, Virtue and Power, and that they did so, is evident
by these testimonies of Paul above mentioned, where he saith that "as many of them as were
baptized into Christ have put on Christ"; this must have been a baptizing into the Name, i.e.,
Power and Virtue, and not mere formal expression of words adjoined with water-baptism,
because as hath been above observed, it doth not follow as a natural or necessary consequence of
it. I would have those who desire to have their faith built upon no other foundation than the
testimony of God's Spirit and Scriptures of Truth, thoroughly to consider whether there can be
anything further alleged for this interpretation than what the prejudice of education and influence
of tradition hath imposed; perhaps it may stumble the unwary and inconsiderate reader, as if the
very character of Christianity were abolished, to tell him plainly that this Scripture is not to be
understood of baptizing with water and that this form of "baptizing in the name of the
Father, Son, and Spirit," hath no warrant from Matt. 28, &c.
For which, besides the reason taken from the signification of "the Name" as
being the Virtue and Power above expressed, let it be considered that if it had been a form
prescribed by Christ to his apostles, then surely they would have made use of that form in the
administering of water-baptism, to such as they baptized with water; but though particular
mention be made in divers places of the Acts, who were baptized and how; and though it be
particularly expressed that they baptized such and such, as Acts 2:41; 8:12-13,38; 9:18; 10:48;
16:15, 18:8, yet there is not a word of this form; and in two places (Acts 8:16, 19:5) it is said of
some that they were "baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus," by which it yet more
appears, that either the author of this history hath been very defective, who having so often
occasion to mention this yet omitteth so substantial a part of baptism (which were to accuse the
Holy Ghost, by whose guidance Luke wrote it) or else that the apostle did no ways understand
that Christ by his commission (Matt. 28) did enjoin them such a form of water-baptism, seeing
they did not use it; and therefore it is safer to conclude that what they did in
administering water-baptism they did not by virtue of that commission; else they would have so
used it: for our adversaries, I suppose, would judge it a great heresy to administer water baptism
without that, or only in the name of Jesus without mention of Father or Spirit, as it is expressly
said they did in the two places above cited.
Secondly, they say, If this were not understood of water-baptism, it would be a tautology,
and all one with teaching.
I say nay: baptizing with the Spirit is somewhat further than teaching or informing the
understanding; for it imports a reaching to, and melting the heart, whereby it is turned, as well as
the understanding informed: besides, we find often in the Scripture, that teaching and instructing
are put together without any absurdity or needless tautology, and yet the two have a greater
affinity, than teaching and baptizing with the Spirit.
Obj. Thirdly, they say, baptism, in this place, must be understood with water,
because it is the action of the apostles, and so cannot be the baptism of the Spirit, which is the
work of Christ, and his Grace; not of man, &c.
Answ. I answer, baptism with the Spirit, though not wrought without Christ and
his Grace, is instrumentally done by men fitted of God for that purpose, and therefore no
absurdity follows, that baptism with the Spirit should be expressed as the action of the apostles:
for though it be Christ by his Grace that gives spiritual gifts, yet the apostle (Rom. 1:11) speaks of
his "imparting to them spiritual gifts," and he tells the Corinthians that he had
"begotten them through the Gospel" (1 Cor. 4:15), and yet to beget people unto the
faith is the work of Christ and his Grace, not of men; to convert the heart is properly the work of
Christ, and yet the Scripture oftentimes ascribes it to men, as being the instruments: and since
Paul's commission was "to turn people from darkness to light," though that be not
done without Christ cooperating by his Grace, so may also baptizing with the Spirit be expressed
as performable by man, as the instrument, though the work of Christ's Grace, be needful to concur
thereunto; so that it is no absurdity to say that the apostles did administer the baptism of the
Spirit.
Obj. Lastly, they say, that since Christ saith here that he will
be with his disciples to the end of the world, therefore water-baptism must continue so long.
Answ. If he had been speaking here of water-baptism, then that might have been
urged; but seeing that is denied and proved to be false, nothing from thence can be gathered, he
speaking of the baptism of the Spirit, which we freely confess doth remain to the end of the world,
yea so long as Christ's presence abideth with his children.
§IX. Obj. Thirdly, they object the constant
practice of the apostles in the primitive Church, who they say did always administer water-baptism
to such as they converted to the faith of Christ, and hence also they further urge that of Matt. 28
to have been meant of water, or else the apostles did not understand it, in that in baptizing they
used water; or that in so doing they walked without a commission.
I answer, that it was the constant practice of the apostles, is denied, for we have shown, in
the example of Paul, that it was not so, since it were most absurd to judge, that he converted only
those few, even of the church of Corinth, whom he saith he baptized; nor were it less absurd to
think that was a constant apostolic practice, which he, that was not inferior to the chiefest of the
apostles, and who declares, he laboured as much as they all, rejoiceth he was so little in. But
further, the conclusion, inferred from the apostles' practice of baptizing with water, to evince that
they understood Matt. 28 of water-baptism, doth not hold: for, though they baptized with water;
it will not follow that either they did it by virtue of that commission, or that they mistook that
place; nor can there be any medium brought, that will infer such a conclusion. As to the other
insinuated absurdity, that they did it without a commission: it is none at all, for they might have
done it by a permission, as being in use before Christ's death. And because the people, nursed up
with outward ceremonies, could not be weaned wholly from them. And thus they used other
things, as circumcision, and legal purifications, which yet they had no commission from Christ to
do (to which we shall speak more at length in the following Proposition concerning the
Supper.)
Obj. But if, from the sameness of the word, because Christ bids them baptize, and they afterwards, in the use of water, are said to baptize,
it be judged probable, that they did understand that commission, Matt. 28, to authorize them to
baptize with water, and accordingly practised it.
Answ. Although it should be granted that for a season they did so far mistake it,
as to judge that water belonged to that baptism (which however I find no necessity of granting),
yet I see not any great absurdity would thence follow; for it is plain they did mistake that
commission, as to a main part of it, for a season; as where he bids them "Go, teach all
nations"; since some time after they judged it unlawful to teach the Gentiles; yea Peter
himself scrupled it, until, by a vision, constrained thereunto, for which, after he had done it, he
was for a season (until they were better informed) judged by the rest of his brethren. Now, if the
education of the apostles as Jews, and their propensity to adhere and stick to the Jewish religion,
did so far influence them, that even after Christ's resurrection, and the pouring forth of the Spirit,
they could not receive nor admit of the teaching of the Gentiles, though Christ, in his commission
to them, commanded them to preach to them; what further absurdity were it to suppose that
through the like mistake the chiefest of them, having been the disciples of John, and his baptism
being so much prized there among the Jews, that they also took Christ's baptism, intended by him
of the Spirit, to be that of water, which was John's, and accordingly practised it, for a season; it
suffices us, that if they were so mistaken (though I say not that they were so) they did not always
remain under that mistake, else Peter would not have said of the baptism which now saves,
"that it is not a putting away of the filth of the flesh," which certainly water baptism
is.
But further, they urge much Peter's baptizing Cornelius: in which they press two things:
first, that water baptism is used, even to those that had received the Spirit; secondly, that it is said
positively, "he commanded them to be baptized" (Acts 10:47-48).
But neither of these doth necessarily infer water-baptism to belong to the New Covenant
dispensation, nor yet to be a perpetual standing ordinance in the Church. For first, all that this
will amount to, was that Peter at that time baptized these men, but that he
did it by virtue of that commission, Matt. 28, remains yet to be proved. And how doth the
baptizing with water, after the receiving of the Holy Ghost prove the case, more than the use of
circumcision and other legal rites acknowledged to have been acted by him afterwards; also, no
wonder if Peter, that thought it so strange (notwithstanding all that had been professed before and
spoken by Christ) that the Gentiles should be made partakers of the Gospel, and with great
difficulty, not without a very extraordinary impulse thereunto, was brought to come to them, and
eat with them, was apt to put this ceremony upon them, which being, as it were, the particular
dispensation of John, the forerunner of Christ, seemed to have greater affinity with the Gospel,
than the other Jewish ceremonies, then used by the Church; but that will no ways infer our
adversaries' conclusion. Secondly, as to these words, "And he commanded them to be
baptized," it declareth matter of fact, not of right, and amounteth to no more
than that Peter did at that time, pro hic & nunc, command those persons to be
baptized with water, which is not denied, but it saith nothing that Peter commanded
water-baptism to be a standing and perpetual ordinance to the Church; neither can any man of
sound reason say, if he heed what he says, that a command in matter of fact to particular persons
doth infer the thing commanded to be of general obligation to all; if it be not otherways bottomed
upon some positive precept; why doth Peter's commanding Cornelius and his household to be
baptized at that time infer water-baptism to continue, more than his constraining (which is more
than commanding) the Gentiles in general to be circumcised, and observe the Law? We find at
that time, when Peter baptized Cornelius, it was not yet determined whether the Gentiles should
not be circumcised; but on the contrary, it was the most general sense of the Church that they
should. And therefore no wonder, if they thought it needful at that time that they should be
baptized; which had more affinity with the Gospel, and was a burthen less grievous.
§X. Obj. Fourthly, they object from the
signification of the word "baptize," which is as much as to dip and wash with water;
alleging thence that the very word imports a being baptized with water.
Answ. This objection is very weak. For since baptizing with water was a rite
among the Jews, as Paulus Riccius showeth, even before the coming of John, and that the
ceremony received that name from the nature of the practice, as used both by the Jews and by
John, yet we find that Christ and his apostles frequently make use of these terms to a more
spiritual signification. Circumcision was only used and understood, among the Jews, to be that of
the flesh. But the apostle tells us of the "circumcision of the heart and spirit made without
hands." So that though baptism was used, among the Jews, only to signify a washing with
water, yet both John, Christ, and his apostles, speak of a being "baptized with the Spirit,
and with fire," which they make the peculiar baptism of Christ, as contradistinguished from
that of water, which was John's (as is above shown). So that though baptism, among the Jews,
was only understood of water, yet among Christians, it is very well understood of the Spirit
without water, as we see Christ and his apostles spiritually to understand things, under the terms
of what had been shadows before. Thus Christ, speaking of his body (though the Jews mistook
him) said he would "destroy this temple," and "build it again in three
days"; and many more that might be instanced. But if the etymology of the word should be
tenaciously adhered to, it would militate against most of our adversaries, as well as against us; for
the Greek 
signifies immergo, that is,
to "plunge" and "dip in"; and that was the proper use of water-baptism
among the Jews, and also by John, and the primitive Christians, who used it; whereas our
adversaries, for the most part, only sprinkle a little water upon the forehead, which doth not at all
answer to the word "baptism." Yea those of old among Christians, that used water
baptism, thought this dipping or plunging so needful, that they thus dipped children. And
forasmuch as it was judged that it might prove hurtful to some weak constitutions, sprinkling, to
prevent that hurt, was introduced; yet then it was likewise appointed, that such as were only
sprinkled and not dipped, should not be admitted to have any office in the Church, as not being
sufficiently baptized. So that if our adversaries will stick to the word, they must alter their
method of sprinkling.
Obj. Fifthly, They object (John 3:5), "Except a man be
born of Water, and of the Spirit," &c., hence inferring the necessity of water baptism,
as well as of the Spirit.
Answ. But, if this prove any thing, it will prove water-baptism to be of absolute
necessity; and therefore Protestants rightly affirm, when this is urged upon them by Papists, to
evince the absolute necessity of water-baptism, that "water" is not here understood of
outward water; but mystically of an inward cleansing and washing; even as where Christ speaks of
being "baptized with fire," it is not to be understood of outward material fire, but only
of purifying, by a metonymy; because to purify is a proper effect of fire, as to wash and make
clean is of water; where it can as little be so understood, as where we are said to be "saved
by the washing of regeneration" (Tit. 3:5). Yea Peter saith expressly, in the place often
cited, as Calvin well observes,e "that
the baptism which saves is not the putting away of the filth of the flesh." So that since
"water" cannot be understood of outward water, this can serve nothing to prove
water baptism.
Obj. If it be said, that "water" imports here necessitatem
praecepti, though not medii;
Answ. I answer, that is first to take it for granted that outward water is here
understood, the contrary whereof we have already proved. Next, "water" and the
"Spirit" are placed here together: "Except a man be born of water and the
Spirit," where the necessity of the one is urged, as much as of the other. Now, if the Spirit
be absolutely necessary, so will also water, and then we must either say, that to be born of the
Spirit is not absolutely necessary, which all acknowledge to be false; or else that water is
absolutely necessary, which, as Protestants, we affirm, and have proved, is false: else we must
confess, that "water" is not here understood of outward water. For to say, that when
"water" and the "Spirit" are placed here just together, and in the same
manner, though there be not any difference or ground for it visible in the text, or deducible from
it, that the necessity of water is here praecepti, but not medii, but the necessity of
the Spirit is both medii and praecepti, is indeed confidently to
affirm, but not to prove.
Obj. Sixthly and lastly, they object that the baptism of water is a visible sign, or
badge, to distinguish Christians from infidels, even as circumcision did the Jews.
Answ. I answer; This saith nothing at all, unless it be proved to be a necessary
precept, or part of the New Covenant dispensation; it not being lawful for us to impose outward
ceremonies and rites, and say they will distinguish us from infidels. Circumcision was positively
commanded, and said to be a seal of the first Covenant, but, as we have already proved that there
is no such command for baptism, so there is not any word in all the New Testament, calling it a
badge of Christianity, or seal of the New Covenant; and therefore, to conclude it is so because
circumcision was so (unless some better proof be alleged for it) is miserably to beg the question.
The professing of faith in Christ, and a holy life answering thereunto, is a far better badge of
Christianity than any outward washing, which yet answers not to that of circumcision, since that
affixed a character in the flesh, which this doth not; so that a Christian is not known to be a
Christian by his being baptized, especially when he was a child, unless he tell them so much; and
may not the professing faith in Christ signify that as well? I know there are divers of those, called
Fathers, that speak much of water baptism, calling it character Christianitatis, but so did
they also of the sign of the cross, and other such things, justly rejected by Protestants. For the
mystery of iniquity, which began to work even in the apostles' days, soon spoiled the simplicity
and purity of the Christian worship, so that not only many Jewish rites were retained, but many
heathenish customs and ceremonies introduced into the Christian worship, as particularly that
word "sacrament," so that it is a great folly, especially for Protestants, to plead
anything of this from tradition or antiquity; for we find that neither Papists nor5 Protestants use these rites exactly as the
ancients did, who, in such things, not walking by the most certain rule of God's Spirit, but doting
too much upon outwards, were very uncertain: for most of them all, in the primitive times, did wholly plunge and dip those they baptized, which neither Papists nor
Protestants do: yea, several of the Fathers accused some as heretics in their days for holding some
principles common with Protestants concerning it; as particularly Augustine doth the Pelagians,
for saying that infants dying unbaptized may be saved. And the Manichees were condemned for
denying that grace is universally given by baptism; and Julian the Pelagian by Augustine, for
denying exorcism and insufflation in the use of baptism: all which things Protestants deny also.
So that Protestants do but foolishly to upbraid us, as if we could not show any among the ancients
that denied water baptism, seeing they cannot show any, whom they acknowledge not to have
been heretical in several things, to have used it, nor yet who using it did not use also the sign of
the cross, and other things with it, which they deny. There were some nevertheless in the darkest
times of Popery, who testified against water-baptism. For one Alain (pages 103, 104, 107) speaks
of some in his time that were burnt for the denying of it: for they said that baptism had no efficacy
either in children or adult persons; and therefore men were not obliged to take baptism.
Particularly ten canonics, so called, were burnt for that crime by the order of King Robert of
France. And P. Pithaeus tells in his fragments of the history of Guienne, which is also confirmed
by one Johannes Floracensis, a monk, who was famous at that time, in his epistle to Oliva, Abbot
of the Ausonian church. "I will," saith he, "give you to understand concerning
the heresy that was in the city of Orleans on Childermas-day; for it was true, if ye have heard
anything, that King Robert caused to be burnt alive, nigh fourteen of that city, of the chief of their
clergy, and the more noble of their laics, who were hateful to God, and abominable to heaven and
earth, for they did stiffly deny the Grace of holy baptism, and also the consecration of our Lord's
body and blood." The time of this deed is noted in these words by Papir. Masson, in his
Annals of France, lib. 3; in Hugh and Robert, Actum Aureliae publice anno Incarnationis
Domini 1022; regni Roberti Regis 28; Indictione 5. quando Stephanus Haeresiarcha &
Complices ejus damnati sunt & exusti Aurelia.
Now for their calling them heretics and Manichees, we have nothing but the testimony of
their accusers, which will no more invalidate their testimony for this truth
against the use of water-baptism, or give more ground to charge us as being one with Manichees,
than, because some, called by them Manichees, do agree with Protestants in some things, that
therefore Protestants are Manichees or heretics, which Protestants can no ways shun. For the
question is, whether, in what they did, they walked according to the Truth testified of by the Spirit
in the Holy Scriptures; so that the controversy is brought back again to the Scriptures, according
to which I suppose I have formerly discussed it.
As for the latter part of the thesis, denying the use of infant baptism, it necessarily follows
from what is above said, for if water-baptism be ceased, then surely baptizing of infants is not
warrantable. But those that take upon them to oppose us in this matter will have more to do, as
to this latter part: for after they have done what they can to prove water-baptism, it remains for
them to prove that infants ought to be baptized. For he that proves water baptism ceased, proves
that infant baptism is vain. But he that should prove that water-baptism continues, has not thence
proved that infant baptism is necessary. That needs something further, and therefore it was a
pitiful subterfuge of Nic. Arnoldus against this, to say that the denying of infant baptism belonged
to the gangrene of Anabaptists, without adding any further probation.
Notes
a. Eph. 4:5, 1 Pet. 3:21, Rom. 6:4, Gal. 3:27, Col.
2:12, John 3:30, 1 Cor. 1:17.
b. 1 Cor. 1:14.
c. Matt. 9:13.
d. John 3:34.
e. In the 4th book of his Instit. chap. 15.
Editor's Notes
1. Later editors change "powerful" to
"plentiful."
2. Later editors insert here, "which they ought
to say, if they will understand by baptism, by which the apostle saith we are saved, water
baptism."
3. Later editors substitute "washings"
for "baptisms."
4. Barclay does not number this section. A later
editor has supplied the number VIII.
5. Some later editors insert "most"
before "Protestants" here.