Q91. How do the sacraments become effectual means of salvation?
The sacraments become effectual means of salvation, not from any virtue in them, or in him that doth administer them; but only by the blessing of Christ, and the working of his Spirit in them that by faith receive them.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
1 Peter 3:21
“The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:”
1 Corinthians 3:6–7
“I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.”
1 Corinthians 12:13
“For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.”
Commentary — Thomas Vincent (1674)
Question 1. How negatively are the sacraments not effectual means of salvation?
Answer. The sacraments negatively:
1. Are not effectual means of salvation by any virtue in themselves to confer grace and salvation upon all the receivers, and by the work done, or bare receiving of them; for many may, and do partake of the sacraments, who are without true grace, and have no share in the salvation of the gospel, Acts 8:13-20-21-23. "And Simon himself was baptized. But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee. Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter; for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity." 1 Cor. 11:28. "Whosoever shall eat this bread and drink this cup of the Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord."