God is above all means
As to the manner of using them, on which indeed it wholly depends whether they should convey any grace at all to the one who uses them, it behooves us, first, always to retain a lively sense that God is above all means. Take care, therefore, not to limit the Almighty. He does whatever he pleases, and whenever it pleases him.
He can convey his grace, either in or out of any of the means which he has appointed. Perhaps he will. Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor? Look, then, every moment for his appearing. Let it be at the hour you are employed in his ordinances, or before, or after that hour, or when you are hindered from them. He is not hindered. He is always ready, always able, always willing to save. It is the Lord. Let him do what seems good to him.
1771 text
4. As to the manner of using them, whereon indeed it wholly depends, whether they should convey any grace at all to the user, it behoves us, first, always to retain a lively sense, that God is above all means. Have a care therefore of limiting the Almighty. He doth whatsoever and whensoever it pleaseth him. He can convey his grace, either in or out of any of the means which he hath appointed. Perhaps he will. Who hath known the mind of the Lord? Or who hath been his counsellor? Look then every moment for his appearing! Be it at the hour you are employed in his ordinances; or before, or after that hour. Or when you are hindered therefrom. He is not hindered. He is always ready: always able, always willing to save. It is the Lord, let him do what seemeth him good!
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 16 in the 1771 Works. Malachi 3:7.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.