Page:Tracts for the Times Vol 2.djvu/418

208 this way at least, "there is no Peace;" while those of us, who dwell on the necessity of universal conversion, and imply, by their preaching, a disbelief in the doctrine of baptismal regeneration, are many times "making the heart of the righteous sad, whom hath not made sad."

These and the like questions are the more difficult to answer dispassionately, because they are opposed to much of our modern systems. May enable us so to see, and preach, and realize the truth, as may save ourselves and those who hear us! I will add but the closing words of Melancthon, who also held the old doctrine of Baptism:—"Let us all consider these statements of Baptism piously and diligently, that we also, who are older, may console ourselves with that covenant, as I have said. But chiefly, let youth beware, lest they squander the gifts of Baptism, and lose that great glory, which sets forth of infants in the Church. 'It is not the will of the  that one of these little ones should perish.' What greater glory can be thought of, than what he affirms, that these certainly please, and are cared for by Him. And let parents, in this faith as to Baptism, call upon  for infants, and recommend them to ; and as soon as ever they can be taught, accustom them themselves to call upon  and His , and gradually impart to them the sum of the Gospel. Lastly, since children are a great part of the Church, let parents and teachers know that no slight treasure is committed to them. Wherefore, let them use faithfulness and diligence in teaching and guiding youth."