A sparing hand
Whether these gifts of the Holy Ghost were meant to remain in the church through all ages, and whether or not they will be restored as the restitution of all things draws near, are questions we do not need to decide. But we do need to observe this. Even in the infancy of the church, God divided these gifts with a sparing hand.
Were all prophets, even then? Were all workers of miracles? Did all have the gifts of healing? Did all speak with tongues?
No, in no way. Perhaps not one in 1,000. Probably none but the teachers in the church, and only some of them. It was therefore for a more excellent purpose than this that they were all filled with the Holy Ghost.
1771 text
3. Whether these gifts of the Holy Ghost were designed to remain in the church throughout all ages; and whether or no they will be restored at the nearer approach of the restitution of all things, are questions which it is not needful to decide. But it is needful to observe this, that even in the infancy of the church, God divided them with a sparing hand. Were all even then prophets? Were all workers of miracles? Had all the gifts of healing? Did all speak with tongues? No, in no wise. Perhaps not one in a thousand. Probably none but the teachers in the church, and only some of them. It was therefore for a more excellent purpose than this, that they were all filled with the Holy Ghost.
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 4 in the 1771 Works. Saint Mary's, Oxford, 24 August 1744. Acts 4:31.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.