The lighter kinds
But it is seldom that God allows the storm to rise so high as torture, or death, or bonds, or imprisonment. His children are frequently called to endure those lighter kinds of persecution. They frequently suffer the estrangement of relatives, the loss of the friends who were as their own soul. They find the truth of their Lord's word, concerning the event, though not the design, of his coming. Do you suppose that I have come to give peace on earth (Luke 12:51)? I tell you, no, but rather division (Luke 12:51). And from this will naturally follow loss of business or employment, and consequently of property. But all these circumstances likewise are under the wise direction of God, who allots to everyone what is most fitting for him.
1771 text
6. But it is seldom God suffers the storm to rise so high, as torture or death or bonds or imprisonment. Whereas his children are frequently called to endure those lighter kinds of persecution; they frequently suffer the estrangement of kinsfolks; the loss of the friends that were as their own soul. They find the truth of their Lord’s word (concerning the event, though not the design of his coming) Suppose ye that I am come to give peace upon earth? I tell you nay; but rather division. And hence will naturally follow loss of business or employment, and consequently of substance. But all these circumstances likewise are under the wise direction of God, who allots to every one what is most expedient for him.
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 23 in the 1771 Works. Matthew 5:8-12.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.