A47602:13
Pedo-baptism disproved being an answer to two printed papers (put forth by some gentlemen…
Pedo-baptism disproved being an answer to two printed papers (put forth by some gentlemen called the Athenian Society, who pretend to answer all questions sent to them of what nature soever) called the Athenian Mercury, one put forth November 14, the other November 28, 1691 : in which papers they pretend to answer eight queries about the lawfulness of infant-baptism : likewise divers queries sent to them about the true subjects of baptism, &c.
London : Printed for the author, and sold by John Harris ..., 1691
Title page typeset from the transcription.
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.
First, From the Customs of the Jews in proselyting the Gentiles into their Religion: so far you say indeed Circumcision was not a Type, but a continuance of a Custom. Now how absurd and ridiculous that is which you affirm upon this account, may appear to all. Will you assert and stand by it, that Baptism was a Jewish Custom, and so no pure Gospel-Institution? Doubtless, if so, the Pharisees might have soon given our Saviour a ready Answer to his great Question, viz. The Baptism of John, whether is it from Heaven, or of Men? Mat. 21. 25. Certainly there was no Baptism of this nature of Divine Institution, before John received it from Heaven. But, say you, If John Baptist undertook any now way of proselyting the Jews into the Gospel, they had not only struggled with the Opposition of his new Doctrine, but also of his new Practice; therefore (say you) it was that this Custom was continued, and had the Super-addition of the full force of Baptism, viz. a Consignation or Seal of the Covenant.
Reply. As you confess his Doctrine was new, so was his Baptism no doubt; for, as our Annotators observe, his Baptism was part of his Doctrine. Pray, what was the Doctrine he preached? was it not Baptism of Repentance for the Remission of Sins? M•rk •. 4. Moreover, we do not read they were more displeased with his new Doctrine, than with his new Practice.
Reply. As you confess his Doctrine was new, so was his Baptism no doubt; for, as our Annotators observe, his Baptism was part of his Doctrine. Pray, what was the Doctrine he preach'd? was it not Baptism of Repentance for the Remission of Sins? M•rk •. 4. Moreover, we do not read they were more displeased with his new Doctrine, than with his new Practice.