We appeal to experience
But the grand objection is still behind. We appeal, they say, to experience. Our light did shine. We used outward things for many years, and yet they profited nothing. We attended all the ordinances, but we were no better for it, nor indeed anyone else. No, we were the worse. For we fancied ourselves Christians for doing so, when we did not know what Christianity meant.
1771 text
6. But the grand objection is still behind. “We appeal, say they, to experience. Our light did shine: we used outward things many years: and yet they profited nothing. We attended on all the ordinances: but we were no better for it; nor indeed any one else: nay we were the worse. For we fancied ourselves Christians for so doing, when we knew not what Christianity meant.”
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 24 in the 1771 Works. Matthew 5:13-16.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.