Rich. Baxters apology against the modest exceptions of Mr. T. Blake and the digression…

R. B. IF affirmations be good proof of the weakness of Arguments, then this is sufficiently confuted. But to the rest: 1. I confess there may be a Hysteron Proteron in the Scripture: and in such a case we may not gather the real precedency of that which is first named. But otherwise, I know not whence we should better gather the natural order then from Scripture order in expression. If I may by the order of your speeches gather the order of things in your conception and intentions, then may I observe the Holy Ghosts order also to the like ends: for I suppose you speak not more orderly then the Holy Ghost. But I may sure to that end observe the order of your expressions, therefore. Moreover, this is not one Text going against the order expressed in most others: but contrarily, the same order is usually observed in other Texts that speak of Faith and Baptism, putting Faith first. Furthermore, this is not a mere Historical Narration, or circumstantial by-passage, but it is the very sum of the Law of Grace, solemnly delivered by Christ to his Apostles (with their grand Commission) before his Ascension: and where may we expect if not here; where in so few words is expressed the substance of the Covenant? Moreover, it is not doctrinally and in general precepts only, that this order is held, but in particular precepts▪ directing in present matter of execution. The Eunuch must Believe with all his heart, and so others commonly must profess belief, before they must be Baptized: and the Scripture gives no hint that this is one kind of Faith, and that another, Mar. 1.4. shows first in General what John did in the wilderness, viz. Baptize: and 2. in what order he did it▪ viz. first preaching that Baptism of Repentance to them. That