The defence of the nonconformists plea for peace, or, An account of the matter…

And you say, [The external part of Baptism, is not so excellent as Prayer or Preaching.] Water and Words, be not matters worth our comparing; but remember, Words are part of Baptism too; and the Solemnizing the great Vow and Covenant between God and believing Sinners, on the terms and to the great ends of Baptism, is a high transaction of unspeakable Concern: And it's shame to many that cry out against Anabaptists, that they reverence it far less than they.

§ 16. But you say, [We assent not, and consent not to the Imposing of it.] Ans. Nor I, and therefore I will not say that I do. Is not the Imposing of the Cross expressly in the Book? And do you not plead for it openly, declaring that you Assent and Consent to all things contained in it, and prescribed by it? What can be plainer?

§ 16. But you say, [We assent not, and consent not to the Imposing of it.] Ans. Nor I, and therefore I will not say that I do. Is not the Imposing of the Cross expresly in the Book? And do you not plead for it openly, declaring that you Assent and Consent to all things contained in it, and prescribed by it? What can be plainer?

§ 17. You say, [It's better to do a doubtful small Evil, than forbear a certain and great Good.] Ans. Negatives bind ad semper, but Affirmatives do not. And that which is Evil and not Good, is ill called Better: No evil must be done that can be avoided: None that good may come of it. The Apostles and Pastors of the three first Ages did good against the will of Governors. What if a Man doubt whether a Lye or Perjury be Sin in such a case? must he therefore do it that he may Preach without Persecution? ⟨p. 56⟩It is no Duty to you, much less a greater which you cannot do, but on condition you will Sin.