1688 MATTHEW HENRY. Unpublished Sermon on Baptism Delivered at Baptism on May 3, 1688

A superb four-page, as usual, miniscule handwritten sermon delivered at the occasion of the baptism of one David Brothers [?], May 3, 1688, sone of Nathaniel Brothers [?]. 

The sermon, here complete, has never been published and is worthy of academic exploration. A fine example demonstrating Henry's life-long emphasis on family, church, and the covenanted means of grace, i.e. baptism and the Lord's Supper, as stabilizing and foundational Christian structures. We also hear his commitment to a very Westminsterian view of worship via the opening paragraph's commitment to regulative principles of worship and ecclesiology, against "popish" or "cultural" intrusions into the worship of the Church, etc.,

A fascinating and research-worthy manuscript.

The document begins:

David ye son of Nath.
Brothers [?], baptized publicly
May 3 [16]88

Brethren,

The Ordinance of Baptism which now lies before us receives its Dignity from the Institution & Appointment of ye Lord Jesus, by warrant from whom it is that we do what we do in it, & without which warrant we would not, we could not, we durst not do it.

Having formerly given you an Historical account of Baptism as it was used before it was a Gospel-Ordinance, I now come to show you the Institution which gave it its being as an Ordinance. Which you have from our Master, Mat. 28.19, where.

I. He promises his own Authority. V.19 All power is given unto me, viz he is constituted Sovereign King in his church, and as such hath sole authority to institute & appoint ordinances. And tis daring presumption for any creature (tho' calling himself by never so great a name) to assume to himself a like power in ye Church.

There are then additional textual references and marginal notes, presumably for homiletic expansion. 

Four pages in a very fine state, early paper reinforcement to interior fold, carefully crafted to not obscure any text. All very legible. 

Provenance: The substantial 19th century autograph collection of Rev. William Griffith [Wesleyan]. Acquired Specs Fine Books 2023.