There is no little sin
One of these least, or one of the least of these commandments. Here is another excuse cut off, by which many who cannot deceive God miserably deceive their own souls. This sin, says the sinner, is it not a little one? Will the Lord not spare me in this thing? Surely he will not be extreme to mark this, since I do not offend in the greater matters of the law. Vain hope. Speaking after the manner of men, we may call these great and those little commandments. But in reality they are not so. If we use words properly, there is no such thing as a little sin, every sin being a transgression of the holy and perfect law and an affront to the great Majesty of heaven.
1771 text
One of these least, or one of the least of these commandments.―― Here is another excuse cut off, whereby many, who cannot deceive God, miserably deceive their own souls. “This sin, saith the sinner, is it not a little one? Will not the Lord spare me in this thing? Surely he will not be extreme to mark this, since I do not offend in the greater matters of the law.” Vain hope! Speaking after the manner of men, we may term these great and those little commandments. But in reality, they are not so. If we use propriety of speech, there is no such thing as a little sin: every sin being a transgression of the holy and perfect law, and an affront of the great Majesty of heaven.
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 25 in the 1771 Works. Matthew 5:17-20.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.