On this subject the author of the Plea does not pursue the order of the Platform, in which baptism and the eucharist are discussed separately; but he unites the two under the caption of Baptismal Regeneration and the Real Presence in the Eucharist, and enters into some discussions of the sacraments in general, and then introduces remarks on each in particular.  Whilst we deem a separate discussion of each sacrament necessary to its proper elucidation, there are certain general views common to them both, which may with propriety be considered in connexion.  We, therefore, devote some pages to this purpose, under the head of the General Nature of the Sacraments, and reserve the discussion of each one individually to subsequent chapters.  It would require an extended volume to discuss all the several aspects of this interesting and solemn subject glanced at by our author.  He does not, however, present in definite lineaments the precise system, which he attributes to the Lutheran Symbols; and lest we should do him injustice in endeavoring to present his system in detail, in order to controvert it, we deem it more Christian and courteous to specify only a few items of his chapter, and occupy our space chiefly in presenting and defending what we regard as the doctrine taught in the Word of God on this subject.  This doctrine is also the theory that underlies the positions of the Definite Platform, and, we suppose, is assented to by its friends.

The Plea affirms, “The Lutheran doctrine maintains that the Sacraments have an intrinsic value; but the Definite Platform seems to regard them as mere signs_, which may have a tendency to promote piety, p. 35.  On this point we think our author has not clearly presented the point of difference between the friends of the Platform and the Plea.  We not only admit, but strenuously affirm, that the sacraments have an important intrinsic influence.  The Platform thus describes it:  “Baptism in adults is a means of making a profession of previous faith, or of being received into the visible church, as well as a pledge and condition of obtaining those blessings purchased by Christ, and offered to all who repent, believe in him and profess his name by baptism,” p. 30.  As to the question, whether this influence is intrinsic or not, it is not touched in the Platform; although we doubt not its adherents very generally hold the affirmative.  But the real point of dispute is the precise nature of the influence exerted by the sacraments.  The symbols seem to regard forgiveness of sins, that is, justification, as the immediate effect of every worthy reception of these ordinances; whilst the friends of the Platform hold this influence to consist in their tendency to produce that living faith, resulting from regeneration, which is the only condition of pardon, and without the possession of which God has not promised to forgive