Certain disputations of right to sacraments, and the true nature of visible Christianity defending…

Argum. 3. The foregoing Argument was taken from the prerequisite Profession; the next shall be taken from the very work it self, viz. the Presenting and offering our selves to be baptized, and willingly receiving baptism: Thus,

If it be the very Nature or appointed Use of the external part of Baptism it self (yea, essential to it) to signify and profes• (among other things) the saving faith and Repentance of the Baptized (being at age;) then true Baptism cannot go without such a Profession. But the former is true: Ergo, so is the later.

If it be the very Nature or appointed Vse of the external part of Baptism it self (yea, essential to it) to signifie and profes• (among other things) the saving faith and Repentance of the Baptized (being at age;) then true Baptism cannot go without such a Profession. But the former is true: Ergo, so is the later.

The Antecedent (which only requireth proof) I prove thus: 1. It is of the Instituted Nature of Baptism to be in general, a Professing sign, as well as an Engaging sign de futuro: this I promise, as granted by all Christians that I know of, that have written of Baptism. And then let us consider of the several parts of the sign or external Ordinance, with the signification of each. That it is essential to it to be significant, and Obligatory on our part, as well as on Gods part, is commonly confessed. And 1. The Minister doth baptize him into the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost; and the party doth (by himself or Parent) consent thereto; 1. Voluntarily offering himself to be so baptized; and then 2. Voluntarily Receiving that Baptism. And his offer of himself hereto, goeth before the Ministers baptizing him; and his Reception of that Baptism is Essential to it: so that Baptism essentially containeth