The Rev. Zachary Crofton on Infidel Conversion & Baptism (very different from the majority report of our day!)
Q. By what must Infidels converted to the Faith be judged, within the Covenant, and fit Subjects to be baptized[?]
A. By making a profession of saving faith, which may be done by men in the gall of bitterness, and bond of iniquity; not by a saving profession of faith, importing sincerity of grace, nor by a well ordered conversation; for God's Ministers must judge by a present visible sign, and they cannot search the heart: And plants are to be set in the Church before we look for fruit; Baptism is a bond unto amendment of life.
Zachary Crofton on Infidel Conversion and Baptism – Confessing the Christian Faith
www.doyouconfess.com
Q. By what must Infidels converted to the Faith be judged, within the Covenant, and fit Subjects to be baptized[?]
A. By making a profession of saving faith, which may be done by men in the gall of bitterness, and bond of iniquity; not by a saving profession of faith, importing sincerity of grace, nor by a well ordered conversation; for God's Ministers must judge by a present visible sign, and they cannot search the heart: And plants are to be set in the Church before we look for fruit; Baptism is a bond unto amendment of life.