This does not encourage sin
But this doctrine, that sin remains in a believer, that a person may be in the favor of God while he has sin in his heart, certainly tends, they say, to encourage people in sin. Understand the statement rightly, and no such consequence follows. A person may be in God's favor though he feels sin, but not if he yields to it. Having sin does not forfeit the favor of God. Giving way to sin does. Though the flesh in you lusts against the Spirit, you may still be a child of God. But if you walk after the flesh, you are a child of the devil. This doctrine does not encourage anyone to obey sin. It encourages us to resist sin with all our might.
1771 text
13. “But this doctrine, that sin remains in a believer, that a man may be in the favour of God, while he has sin in his heart, certainly tends to encourage men in sin.” Understand the proposition right, and no such consequence follows. A man may be in God’s favour tho’ he feel sin; but not if he yields to it. Having sin does not forfeit the favour of God; giving way to sin, does. Though the flesh in you lust against the spirit, you may still be a child of God. But if you walk after the flesh, you are a child of the devil. Now, this doctrine does not incourage to obey sin, but to resist it with all our might.
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 13 in the 1771 Works. Second Corinthians 5:17.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.