No words could state more clearly the distinction
between the outward sign and the inward grace of Baptism, and the
absolute necessity for both. There is no possible reference to
Unction, but “the operation of the Holy Ghost” in cleansing
and sealing the soul is unmistakably connected with Baptism as
“the grace given with the water” (μετὰ τοῦ
ὕδατος), and below, as “the
seal by water” (τὴν
δι᾽ ὕδατος
σφραγῖδα), the
latter phrase shewing that Baptism by water is the signum
efficax of the grace in question.