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Anthony, As you have noted, the difference in interpretation is really a matter of different ecclesiology. From the regenerate church membership POV, Perkins' statement would be unacceptable. But even from this POV there are those who profess faith and are baptised who are regarded as "elect," but who afterwards demonstrate signs of reprobation. The Presbyterian mixed congregation POV consistently maintains that we cannot know the hearts of men, but treat them according to what they profess. Blessings!
| Perkins' statement has no necessary contradiction with regenerate-only New Covenant membership, nor with the strict credobaptism.
It is language that many baptists would (and do) disagree with, of course. But I can (and do) agree with Perkins' statement and see it is a very good summary of my own thoughts on the issue.
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Jeremy Gage
First Baptist Church
Durham, NC
"No heart can conceive that treasury of mercies which lies in this one privilege, in having liberty and ability to approach unto God at all times, according to his mind and will." - John Owen
Last edited by smhbbag; 04-20-2008 at 09:15 PM.
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