A well-ordered train
Indeed if man were not thus fallen, there would be no need of all this. There would be no occasion for this work of the heart, this renewal in the spirit of our mind (Ephesians 4:23). The superfluity of godliness would then be a more proper expression than the superfluity of naughtiness (James 1:21). For an outside religion without any godliness at all would suffice for all rational intents and purposes. It does accordingly suffice, in the judgment of those who deny this corruption of our nature. They make very little more of religion than the famous Mr. Hobbes did of reason. According to him, reason is only a well-ordered train of words. According to them, religion is only a well-ordered train of words and actions. And they speak consistently with themselves. For if the inside is not full of wickedness, if this is clean already, what remains but to cleanse the outside of the cup (Matthew 23:25)? Outward reformation, if their supposition is just, is indeed the one thing needful (Luke 10:42).
1771 text
4. Indeed if man were not thus fallen, there would be no need of all this. There would be no occasion for this work of the heart, this renewal in the spirit of our mind. The superfluity of godliness would then be a more proper expression than the superfluity of naughtiness. For an outside religion without any godliness at all, would suffice to all rational intents and purposes. It does accordingly suffice, in the judgment of those who deny this corruption of our nature. They make very little more of religion than the famous Mr. Hobbes did of reason. According to him, reason is only, “A well-ordered train of words:” according to them, religion is only a well-ordered train of words and actions. And they speak consistently with themselves: for if the inside be not full of wickedness, if this be clean already, what remains, but to cleanse the outside of the cup? Outward reformation, if their supposition be just, is indeed the one thing needful.
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 44 in the 1771 Works. Genesis 6:5.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.