The wisdom from beneath
It was not needed that anyone should tell our Lord of this masterpiece of the wisdom from beneath (James 3:15), this fairest of all the devices with which Satan has ever perverted the right ways of the Lord. And oh, what instruments he has found, from time to time, to employ in this service of his, to wield this grand engine of hell against some of the most important truths of God. Men who would deceive, if it were possible, the very elect (Matthew 24:24), the men of faith and love. Yes, who have for a season deceived and led away no small number of them, who have fallen in every age into the gilded snare, and hardly escaped with the skin of their teeth (Job 19:20).
1771 text
5. It needed not that any should tell our Lord, of this master-piece of the wisdom from beneath! This fairest of all the devices wherewith Satan hath ever perverted the right ways of the Lord. And O! What instruments hath he found from time to time, to employ in this his service! To wield this grand engine of hell, against some of the most important truths of God! Men that would deceive if it were possible the very elect; the men of faith and love: yea, that have for a season deceived and led away no inconsiderable number of them; who have fallen in all ages into the gilded snare, and hardly escaped with the skin of their teeth.
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.