The works of the Rev. John Wesley, Vol. 01 (of 32)Wesley, John
Religion
The works of the Rev. John Wesley, Vol. 01 (of 32)
Wesley, John
Methodist Church; Theology -- Early works to 1800; Theology -- History -- 18th century
9. It has been observed before, that the opposite doctrine, “that there
is no sin in believers,” is quite _new_ in the church of Christ: that
it was never heard of for seventeen hundred years, never ’till it was
discovered by Count _Zinzendorf_. I do not remember to have seen the
least intimation of it, either in any antient or modern writer: unless
perhaps in some of the wild, ranting Antinomians. And these likewise
say and unsay, acknowledging, there is sin _in their flesh_, although
no sin _in their heart_. But whatever doctrine is _new_ must be _wrong_:
for the _old_ religion is the only _true_ one. And no doctrine can be
right, unless it is the very same _which was from the beginning_.
10. One argument more against this new, unscriptural doctrine, may be
drawn from the dreadful consequences of it. One says, “I felt anger
to-day.” Must I reply, then you have no faith? Another says, “I know
what you advise is good. But my will is quite averse to it.” Must I
tell him, “Then you are an unbeliever, under the wrath and the curse of
God?” What will be the natural consequence of this? Why, if he believe
what I say, his soul will not only be grieved and wounded, but perhaps
utterly destroyed: Inasmuch as he will _cast away_ that _confidence,
which hath great recompence of reward_. And having cast away his shield,
how shall he _quench the fiery darts of the wicked one_? How shall
he overcome the world? Seeing _this is the victory that overcometh
the world even our faith_. He stands disarmed in the midst of his
enemies, open to all their assaults. What wonder then if he be utterly
overthrown; if they take him captive at their will? Yea, if he fall
from one wickedness to another, and never see good any more?――――I
cannot therefore by any means receive this assertion, that there is no
sin in a believer from the moment he is justified; first, because it
is contrary to the whole tenor of scripture; secondly, because it ♦is
contrary to the experience of the children of God. Thirdly, because
it is absolutely new, never heard of in the world ’till yesterday;
and lastly, because it is naturally attended with the most fatal
consequences; not only grieving those whom God hath not grieved, but
perhaps dragging them into everlasting perdition.
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