Let us now turn our attention to,
III. The lessons, which his submission to it may teach us —
It may well teach us,
1. To observe the instituted ordinances of our religion —
[Circumcision, with respect to us, is done away, and is superseded by the milder rite of baptism. But baptism is as necessary for us, as circumcision was to the Jews; and it is to be administered to the very same persons.
We know that this is a point disputed by many ; who are fond of bringing forward the controversy on all occasions. Far be it from us to encourage a controversial spirit : we would avoid it, and discourage it, to the utmost of our power. Yet it is necessary that we should instruct those who are under our charge in all things relating to their duty ; and therefore, without offence to others, we may be allowed to state with plainness our views and sentiments.
Two reasons in particular are urged for not administering baptism to infants : the one is, that we are not any where commanded to do so ; the other is, that children are not capable of all the ends of baptism ; since baptism presupposes a knowledge and approbation of those principles, into which we are baptized.
But to this we answer, What occasion was there for re- newed orders concerning a thing that had already existed two thousand years ? A rite more suited to our dispensation was introduced; but the persons interested in it were not therefore deprived of their birthright. If it was intended to abridge the privileges of children, we might well expect that such an intention should have been expressed : but where has God expressed it? and who but God can take away the privileges which God has given ?
Again : If it be any argument against the baptism of chil- dren, that they cannot understand the principles which they become pledged to maintain, it is equally so against the cir- cumcision of infants: and whosoever will condemn that, let him answer it to God.
Be it so ; children are not capable of all the ends of bap- tism. But was Christ capable of all the ends of circumcision? was not one end of it to put away (emblematically then, and really afterwards) the lusts of the flesh? But had he any lusts to put away ? Yet he was circumcised : and consequently, children may now be baptized, though they be not capable of all the ends of baptism.