Two steps before parting
Only two steps may properly be taken before such an absolute and final separation. First, try whether the unclean spirit may not be driven out by fasting and prayer (Matthew 17:21), and by carefully abstaining from every action, and word, and look which you have found to be an occasion of evil. Second, if you are not delivered by this means, ask counsel of the one who watches over your soul, or at least of some who have experience in the ways of God, about the time and manner of that separation. But do not confer with flesh and blood (Galatians 1:16), lest you be given up to a strong delusion to believe a lie (2 Thessalonians 2:11).
1771 text
Two steps only it may not be improper to take, before such an absolute and final separation. First, Try whether the unclean spirit may not be driven out by fasting and prayer, and by carefully abstaining from every action and word and look, which thou hast found to be an occasion of evil. Secondly, If thou art not by this means delivered, ask council of him that watcheth over thy soul, or at least of some who have experience in the ways of God, touching the time and manner of that separation. But confer not with flesh and blood, lest thou be given up to a strong delusion to believe a lie.
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 23 in the 1771 Works. Matthew 5:8-12.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.