The fiery zealot
There are many other enthusiasts of this sort. Such, for instance, is the fiery zealot for religion — or (more probably) for the opinions and modes of worship which he dignifies with that name. This man also strongly imagines himself to be a believer in Jesus, yes, that he is a champion for the faith which was once delivered to the saints (Jude 3). Accordingly all his conduct is formed upon that vain imagination. And allowing his supposition to be just, he would have some tolerable plea for his behavior; whereas now it is evidently the effect of a distempered brain as well as of a distempered heart.
1771 text
15. *There are many other Enthusiasts of this sort. Such, for instance, is the fiery zealot for religion; or (more probably) for the opinions and modes of worship, which he dignifies with that name. This man also strongly imagines himself, to be a believer in Jesus, yea, that he is a champion for the faith, which was once delivered to the saints. Accordingly all his conduct is formed, upon that vain imagination. And allowing his supposition to be just, he would have some tolerable plea for his behaviour: whereas now it is evidently the effect of a distempered brain, as well as of a distempered heart.
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 37 in the 1771 Works. Acts 26:24.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.