SECT. IV.
VVE have them that would make the Sacraments fewer in number then God hath commanded: and there are some that have made more•• then he hath approved. Two there are, no more no less, (viz) baptisme, and the Lords supper, which must be observed.
For the observation of these we have promises and precepts, Mark 16.16. Matth. 3.11. Acts 2.38. Luke 22.18. The Jewish Church had ordinary but two, (viz) Circumcision, by which they were visibly entered into the Church, and Sacramentally born again•• to this our baptisme Answers: and the Paschal by which they were nourished in that Church into which by circumcision they were admitted: to this our Lords supper Answers. And as a man is but once born, though often fed, so he is, but once a receiver of that Sacrament of baptisme, yet ought to be a frequent partaker of that of the supper.
We say, Ordinary the Iews had but two: for that Manna from Heaven and water out of the rock, were extraordinary, and but for a time, during Israels abode in the wilderness.
We need but to be born in Christ, and then continue in him, which is accomplished by these two, without any other. By baptisme we put on Christ as a garment, Gal. 3.27. and by the supper we feed upon him as meat, Luke 22.19. having therefore food and raiment by these Sacraments, we ought to be content.
To all this consent the reformed Churches, of Helv. Art. 19.20. of Basil Art. 5. of Bohem Art. 11. of France Art. 34. of Belg Art. 33. of Sax. Art. 12. of W••r••. Art. 9. of the four Cities Art. 16. of Irel. Art. 85, 86. of Scotland Art. 21. of England Art. 25. The Article it self is this.