Not sufficient of ourselves
At the same time we are convinced that we are not sufficient of ourselves to help ourselves (2 Corinthians 3:5); that without the Spirit of God we can do nothing but add sin to sin; that it is he alone who works in us by his almighty power, either to will or to do that which is good. It is as impossible for us even to think a good thought, without the supernatural assistance of his Spirit, as to create ourselves, or to renew our whole souls in righteousness and true holiness.
1771 text
3. At the same time we are convinced, that we are not sufficient of ourselves to help ourselves; that without the Spirit of God we can do nothing but add sin to sin: that it is he alone who worketh in us by his almighty power, either to will or do that which is good; it being as impossible for us even to think a good thought, without the supernatural assistance of his Spirit, as to create ourselves, or to renew our whole souls in righteousness and true holiness.
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 17 in the 1771 Works. Romans 2:29. Saint Mary's, Oxford, 1 January 1733.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.