A26886:812
Certain disputations of right to sacraments, and the true nature of visible Christianity defending…
Certain disputations of right to sacraments, and the true nature of visible Christianity defending them against several sorts of opponents, especially against the second assault of that pious, reverend and dear brother Mr. Thomas Blake / by Richard Baxter ...
London: printed by R.W. for Nevil Simmons, 1658
Modern spelling is a reading aid: the words are the author’s, only the spelling is modernized. Original shows the page as printed, with the transcription marks.
The next touch of this nature I find pag. 167. [Profession being a good step in the way to sincerity, which a man would think Mr. Baxter would not dislike, who so far speaks the mind of Christ towards men, that if they will come but only to a visible Profession, he will not deny them admittance there, because they intend to go no further, but will let them come as near as they will.] Repl. And so I confidently say still: And what's this to your Cause at all?
The next that I observe are cited, pag. 184. and 186. In the latter, 188. he reciteth a passage of mine in the Saints Rest, where I say that [the mere sober-professing to repent and believe in Christ, is a sufficient Evidence of their Interest to Church-membership, (coram Ecclesiâ) and admittance thereto by Baptism.]
The next that I observe are cited, pag. 184. and 186. In the latter, 188. he reciteth a passage of mine in the Saints Rest, where I say that [the meer sober-professing to repent and believe in Christ, is a sufficient Evidence of their Interest to Church-membership, (coram Ecclesiâ) and admittance thereto by Baptism.]
Upon which Mr. Blake assumeth [What have I spoke more than here is said? and did I ever speak with more and higher Confidence? I say, that a faith which is short of justifying gives title to Baptism:] And he saith, [such gives sufficient Interest to Church-membership, and consequently admittance to Baptism.] Repl. I must needs say, that it is to be lamented that Passion or Inconsiderateness should carry you to such evident untruths. Did ever I say that [such] a faith gives evidence? Did I there once mention such a faith? Did I not expressly say, [A sober Professing to repent and believe in Christ.] And did you not set these words before your Readers eyes? And yet will you in the next words persuade him that I talk of a faith short of justifying? Did you think men would