Christian Perfection · §4 · John Wesley

We may not lay them aside

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And hence some have advised wholly to lay aside the use of those expressions, "because they have given so great offense." But are they not found in the oracles of God? If so, by what authority can any messenger of God lay them aside, even though all men should be offended? We have not so learned Christ (Ephesians 4:20); neither may we thus give place to the devil (Ephesians 4:27). Whatever God has spoken, that will we speak, whether men will hear or whether they will forbear (Ezekiel 2:5, 7): knowing that then alone can any minister of Christ be pure from the blood of all men, when he has not shunned to declare to them all the counsel of God (Acts 20:26-27).

1771 text

2. And hence some have advised, wholly to lay aside the use of those expressions: “because they have given so great offence.” But are they not found in the oracles of God? If so, by what authority, can any messenger of God lay them aside, even tho’ all men should be offended? We have not so learned Christ; neither may we thus give place to the devil. Whatsoever God hath spoken, that will we speak, whether men will hear, or whether they will forbear: knowing that then alone can any minister of Christ be pure from the blood of all men, when he hath not shunned to declare unto them all the counsel of God.