Effaced and re-inscribed
Such was the original of the law of God. With regard to man, it was co-eval with his nature. But with regard to the elder sons of God, it shone in its full splendor, or ever the mountains were brought forth, on the earth and the round world were made. But it was not long before man rebelled against God, and by breaking this glorious law, nearly effaced it out of his heart; the eyes of his understanding being darkened, in the same measure as his soul was alienated from the life of God. And yet God did not despise the work of his own hands: but being reconciled to man through the Son of his love, he in some measure re-inscribed the law, on the heart of his dark, sinful creature. He again showed you, O man what is good (although not as in the beginning) even to do justly and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God (Micah 6:8).
1771 text
4. Such was the original of the law of God. With regard to man, it was co-eval with his nature. But with regard to the elder sons of God, it shone in its full splendor, or ever the mountains were brought forth, on the earth and the round world were made. But it was not long before man rebelled against God, and by breaking this glorious law, well nigh effaced it out of his heart; the eyes of his understanding being darkened, in the same measure as his soul was alienated from the life of God. And yet God did not despise the work of his own hands: but being reconciled to man thro’ the Son of his love, he in some measure re-inscribed the law, on the heart of his dark, sinful creature. He again shewed thee, O man what is good (altho’ not as in the beginning) even to do justly and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God.
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 34 in the 1771 Works. Romans 7:12.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.