The strongest light
I do not indeed conceive that the person of whom the apostle speaks in the text (although we have no particular account of him, either in the context or in any other part of holy writ) went so far as this. We have no ground to suppose that there was any material difference between him and the apostles, much less that he had any prejudice either against them or their Master. It seems we may gather this much from our Lord's own words, which immediately follow the text: There is no man who shall do a miracle in my name who can lightly speak evil of me (Mark 9:39). But I purposely put the case in the strongest light, adding all the circumstances which can well be conceived, that being forewarned of the temptation in its full strength, we may in no case yield to it and fight against God (Acts 5:39).
1771 text
7. I do not indeed conceive, That the person of whom the apostle speaks in the text (altho’ we have no particular account of him, either in the context, or in any other part of holy writ) went so far as this. We have no ground to suppose, That there was any material difference between him and the apostles; much less that he had any prejudice either against them or their Master. It seems we may gather thus much from our Lord’s own words, which immediately follow the text, There is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me. But I purposely put the case in the strongest light, adding all the circumstances which can well be conceived: that being forewarned of the temptation in its full strength, we may in no case yield to it, and fight against 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 38 in the 1771 Works. Mark 9:38-39.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.