PREFACE.

...adding to it, we could bring to light what follows for the edification of our neighbor and the glory of God; and we pray that the Lord would pour out His blessing upon it, so that the faithful, through His grace, may draw some fruit from it.

One will find here, first of all, the doctrine of Baptism and its pure administration—regarding which D. KoelmanAbbreviation for "Dominus," a title of respect for a minister. Jacobus Koelman (1632–1695) was a Dutch Reformed minister who criticized the Labadists for their separatist views. takes issue with us—explained according to our true sentiment. One will see here the proofs and foundations upon which it rests; as well as the resolution of everything that can be raised against us regarding that matter, and particularly regarding what D. Koelman has brought against it in his book. We gladly leave it to the Lord to show those who come to read this book on which side the truth is found. And our only desire, by His grace, is that the truth alone be followed, to the glory of His name and for the true good of His people.

Although Water-baptism does not save us, as Peter says A reference to 1 Peter 3:21, where the Apostle Peter explains that baptism is not merely the washing of dirt from the body, but an appeal to God for a good conscience., it is nevertheless highly necessary that its use be properly regulated, and that its administration happen according to the truth of the Gospel and the foundation of the New CovenantThe theological concept that God has established a new relationship with humanity through Jesus Christ, replacing the Old Testament Law., of which it is the sign and seal, as is the Lord’s Supper. Both signify and seal great and highly important matters: it is therefore right that one takes care not to seal them carelessly, or without having sufficient reason for doing so. Otherwise, one gradually debases the truths of Christianity and makes them contemptible; one loses and takes away the living impression that one ought to have of them, and one imagines that nothing is easier or more common than being a Christian—just as there is nothing more common than being baptized, and nothing easier than receiving baptism. Therefore we believe that the point which we treat and clarify in this treatiseoriginal: "Tractaet" is very real and noteworthy, and particularly useful for