Outward sin is a different question
The question is not about outward sin. Outward sin is a different question. It is not whether a child of God commits sin or not. We all agree, and earnestly maintain, "He that commits sin is of the devil" (1 John 3:8). We agree, "whoever is born of God does not commit sin" (1 John 3:9). Neither do we now ask whether inward sin will always remain in the children of God, or whether sin will continue in the soul as long as it continues in the body. Nor do we ask whether a justified person may relapse into either inward or outward sin. The question is simply this. Is a justified or regenerate person freed from all sin as soon as he is justified? Is there then no sin in his heart? And none ever after, unless he falls from grace?
1771 text
3. The question is not, concerning outward sin: whether a child of God commits sin or no? We all agree and earnestly maintain, He that committeth sin is of the devil. We agree, whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin. Neither do we now enquire whether inward sin will always remain in the children of God? Whether sin will continue in the soul, as long as it continues in the body? Nor yet do we enquire, whether a justified person, may relapse either into inward or outward sin? But simply this, Is a justified or regenerate man freed from all sin, as soon as he is justified? Is there then no sin in his heart? Nor ever after, unless he fall from grace?
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.