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§. 11. Of principles about Gods word.
Of the Doctrine of Baptismes, and of laying on of hands, and of Resurrection o•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉 dead, and of eternall Iudgement.
THis is the third principle, the Doctrine of Baptismes. Some make these two di∣stinct principles: comprising one under this word Doctrine: The other under this word Baptismes. Whether they be made two distinct principles, or onely 〈◊〉〈◊〉, it is without question, that both the foresaid points of Doctrine, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 included: and were both taught: as repentance, and dead workes in the first prin∣ciple: and God, and Faith in the second.
The Greek noun translated a 1.1 Doctrine is derived from a verb that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 b 1.2 to teach. It pointeth at Gods word in the holy Scriptures, whereby God i•…•…∣structeth us in his will. But more particularly the Gospell may be here intended▪ For the Gospell is the most proper meanes of working Faith. Rom. 1. 16, 17. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Gospell is in speciall manner the Doctrine of Baptisme: that Doctrine whic•…•… first taught Baptisme, and whereof Baptisme is a seale.
About this Doctrine, or word, they might be instructed in these particulars. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 it is a Doctrine of divine authority, even the word of God himself. That it is the ground, and rule of all things to be believed, and practised about Salvation. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 it instructeth us in all the ordinances of God: and declareth both what are 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ordinances, and also how they ought to be observed. That it instructeth us in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 manner of duties to be performed to God, or our neighbour. That it is the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 true light that can direct us in the way to Salvation. That it is the ordinary 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to breed, and encrease grace. That by preaching it is made most powerfull. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 it containeth the covenant, whereof the Sacraments are seales.
Of Gods word, see more in the whole Armour of God. Treat. 2. Part▪ •…•…. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Eph. 6. 17. §. 1. &c.