More proofs of infants church-membership and consequently their right to baptism, or, A second…

Mr. T. That the humane birth and infant state is sanctified (by Christs) is not true: for then it would be holy to all, —

Reply. I deny your consequence. There are several causes concur to the same sanctification: Christs Birth and Infancy are but a remote preparatory cause, of powerful sanctification, which is ever to individual persons; as all things are pure to the pure, and when they are capable subjects, by natural existence and Parents consent, then from all the causes together results the holiness of that state: As Christs death and merits sanctify us, but not immediately nor alone. But Divines use to take this word [sanctifying] in an initial preparatory sense, as it signifieth the making of such a thing or state fit for holy use: As Temples and Utensils are said to be sanctified, when designed to be used holily (before the use.) But must they therefore be so used by all? No, but by the Priests and Worshippers? So they use to say, that Death and the Grave are sanctified by Christ: How? Not to all, or any of the ungodly: But the curse is taken off, and they are hallowed for the holy advantage of the faithful. So is it as to his Birth and Infancy.

Reply. I deny your consequence. There are several causes concur to the same sanctification: Christs Birth and Infancy are but a remote preparatory cause, of powerful sanctification, which is ever to individual persons; as all things are pure to the pure, and when they are capable subjects, by natural existence and Parents consent, then from all the causes together results the holiness of that state: As Christs death and merits sanctifie us, but not immediately nor alone. But Divines use to take this word [sanctifying] in an initial preparatory sense, as it signifieth the making of such a thing or state fit for holy use: As Temples and Utensils are said to be sanctified, when designed to be used holily (before the use.) But must they therefore be so used by all? No, but by the Priests and Worshippers? So they use to say, that Death and the Grave are sanctified by Christ: How? Not to all, or any of the ungodly: But the curse is taken off, and they are hallowed for the holy advantage of the faithful. So is it as to his Birth and Infancy.