An abomination to them
There is scarce any expression in holy writ which has given more offense than this. The word perfect is what many cannot bear. The very sound of it is an abomination to them. And whoever preaches perfection (as the phrase is), that is, asserts that it is attainable in this life, runs great hazard of being accounted by them worse than a heathen man or a tax collector (Matthew 18:17).
1771 text
1. THERE is scarce any expression in holy writ, which has given more offence than this. The word perfect is what many cannot bear. The very sound of it is an abomination to them. And whosoever preaches perfection (as the phrase is) i. e. asserts that it is attainable in this life, runs great hazard of being accounted by them, worse than a Heathen man or a Publican.
About this text
Rendered in modern English, to be read and heard. Open the 1771 text under each part to check the claims and the scripture.
Rendered in modern English. The 1771 panel is his own Pine printing of the Works. It is public domain.
Catalogue & scope
Sermon 40 in the 1771 Works. Philippians 3:12.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.