Second thoughts and counsel
Indeed we could not easily fall into sinful judging, were we only to observe that rule which another of those Heathen Romans affirms to have been the measure of his own practice. “I am so far,” says he, “from lightly believing every man's, or any man's, evidence against another, that I do not easily or immediately believe a man's evidence against himself. I always allow him second thoughts, and many times counsel too.” Go, you who are called a Christian, and do likewise, lest the Heathen rise and condemn you in that day (Matthew 12:41).
1771 text
13. Indeed we could not easily fall into sinful judging, were we only to observe that rule, which another of those Heathen Romans affirms to have been the measure of his own practice. “I am so far, says he, from lightly believing every man’s, or any man’s evidence against another, that I do not easily or immediately believe a man’s evidence against himself. I always allow him second thoughts, and many times council too.” Go thou who art called a Christian, and do likewise, lest the Heathen rise and condemn thee in that day.
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 30 in the 1771 Works. Matthew 7:1-12.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.