Not barely being baptized
First, we are to consider the proper meaning of that expression, "Whoever is born of God." In general, from all the passages of holy scripture in which this expression, being born of God, occurs, we may learn that it implies not barely being baptized, or any outward change whatever. It is a vast inward change, a change wrought in the soul by the operation of the Holy Ghost. A change in the whole manner of our existence. For from the moment we are born of God, we live in quite another manner than we did before. We are, as it were, in another world.
1771 text
I. 1. First, we are to consider, what is the proper meaning of that expression, Whosoever is born of God. And in general, from all the passages of holy writ, wherein this expression the being born of God, occurs, we may learn that it implies not barely the being baptized, or any outward change whatever; but a vast inward change, a change wrought in the soul, by the operation of the Holy Ghost: a change in the whole manner of our existence; for from the moment we are born of God, we live in quite another manner than we did before; we are, as it were, in another world.
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 19 in the 1771 Works. First John 3:9.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.