Page:A Catechism on the Thirty nine Articles.pdf/84

This page has been validated.
78
CATECHISM ON THE ARTICLES.

ference, whereby Christian men are discerned from others that be not christened."

What is meant by being christened?

Being made Christians.

Why is Baptism the mark of difference between Christians and those who are not so?

1. Baptism is the outward sign by which we profess ourselves Christians; and,

2. A man cannot be a Christian except through the favour of God; which is signified by Baptism.

What is meant by saying that it is "not only a sign of profession," &c.?

That it is something more.

Why was it necessary to state this?

Because there were some who denied that it was any thing more.

What then is it in addition?

It is "an effectual sign of Regeneration or New-Birth."

Why do we all need regeneration?

Because we are all born in sin, and are consequently under God's displeasure. See Article IX.

In what way is Baptism a sign of regeneration?

"They that receive Baptism rightly are by it, as by an instrument, grafted into the Church;" and "the promises of forgiveness of sin, and of our adoption to be sons of God by the Holy Ghost, are visibly signed and sealed."

Why are we to conclude that these benefits are