A reply to Dr. Mortons general Defence of three nocent [sic] ceremonies viz. the…A reply to Dr. Mortons generall Defence of three nocent [sic] ceremonies viz. the…

SECT. V.

Here that which in the Abridgement is the third proof of a proposition, and backed with many allegations, is nakedly brought in that it may be the better mastered. Symbolyca•• signification giveth unto ceremonies a chief part of sacraments. For the clearing of this point, the Defendant distinguisheth betwixt moral signs and sacramental. Of sacramental he maketh two parts, one after the manner of a sign, and the other of a seal: then he maketh a differenc•• betwixt moral and sacramental signs, not only that sacraments do seal, which moral signs do not, but also that sacramental signs do represent a collation of grace given by God unto man; whereas moral do only notify a duty of man which in some moral virtue he oweth unto God. Then after he findeth fault with this, that signification should be called the chief point of a sacrament. Now for the first, I do not marvel that he calleth his distinctions wedges: for this is a most unhappy wedge indeed, which riveth in sunder the holy sacraments of God, and maketh way for humane inventions to creep into their place.¹ The sacraments (saith he) do signify grace conferred: and moral signs do signify a duty of man in some moral virtue. But the Scripture teacheth us that the Sacraments do also signify the duty of man towards God. For by the sacraments the whole covenant is signed and sealed betwixt God and man: so that not only Gods conferring of grace, but mans duty through grace is there professed and represented. This the name Sacrament, as it signifieth an oath or obligation, doth import, by Bellarmines own confession: de sacram. l. 1. c. 8. This the name Eucharist doth also show, in the Lords Supper, notifying that thankfulness we owe unto God. This the words of institution do plainly testify in the Lords Supper, Do this in remembrance of me. And I think the Def. when he considereth the matter well, will not dare to deny, but that sanctity (which he saith is signified by the Surplice) is signified in Baptism: and constancy also which he ascribeth to the cross. If he do, he may be easily confuted, by those places where the scripture speaketh of it, especially