Q. Do Christ’s ordinances become effectual in any degree, from any virtue in themselves? — A. No: for the scripture declares, the word preached did not profit; and that it is to some savour of death: and daily experience shews, that the persons may receive all these ordinances, and yet be openly wicked, Heb. 4:2, Isa. 6. 9-10.

John Brown of Haddington, Questions and Answers on the Shorter Catechism, 301.