Cease from outward actions
Many eminent men have spoken this way. They have advised us to cease from all outward actions, wholly to withdraw from the world, to leave the body behind us, to abstract ourselves from all sensible things, to have no concern at all about outward religion, but to work all virtues in the will, as the far more excellent way, more perfecting of the soul, as well as more acceptable to God.
1771 text
4. Many eminent men have spoken thus: have advised us “To cease from all outward actions;” wholly to withdraw from the world; to leave the body behind us; to abstract ourselves from all sensible things: to have no concern at all about outward religion, but to “work all virtues in the will,” as the far more excellent way, more perfective of the soul, as well as more acceptable to 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 24 in the 1771 Works. Matthew 5:13-16.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.