The view is held among Reformed (Protestant) Christians that Baptism and the Lords Supper are sacraments and do impart grace in a real sense.
The grace which is exhibited in or by the sacraments rightly used, is not conferred by any power in them; neither doth the efficacy of a sacrament depend upon the piety or intention of him that doth administer it: but upon the work of the Spirit, and the word of institution, which contains, together with a precept authorizing the use thereof, a promise of benefit to worthy receivers. (Westminster Confession of Faith, 27:3)Although it be a great sin to contemn or neglect this ordinance [baptism], yet grace and salvation are not so inseparably annexed unto it, as that no person can be regenerated, or saved, without it; or, that all that are baptized are undoubtedly regenerated. (WCF, 28:5)
The efficacy of baptism is not tied to that moment of time wherein it is administered; yet, notwithstanding, by the right use of this ordinance, the grace promised is not only offered, but really exhibited, and conferred, by the Holy Ghost, to such (whether of age or infants) as that grace belongeth unto, according to the counsel of God's own will, in his appointed time. (WCF, 28:5,6)
The Reformed believe the wine and bread are transformed and the Holy Spirit only indwells the believer after Baptism? If not how can these ordinances impart Grace?
“The view is held among Reformed (Protestant) Christians that Baptism and the Lords Supper are sacraments and do impart grace in a real sense.”
What is the grace that is imparted?
“Although it be a great sin to contemn or neglect this ordinance [baptism], yet grace and salvation are not so inseparably annexed unto it, as that no person can be regenerated, or saved, without it; or, that all that are baptized are undoubtedly regenerated. (WCF, 28:5)”
What is the “great sin” to neglect baptism and conversly, what is the effect on the unbeliever who is baptized? If it confers grace, then it seems like there should be some adverse spiritual consequences for the unbeliever.