Teachers who break the commandments
But if those who even thus break, and teach others to break, one of the least of these commandments shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven, shall have no part in the kingdom of Christ and of God, if even these shall be cast into outer darkness, where there is wailing and gnashing of teeth, then where will they appear whom our Lord chiefly and primarily intends in these words? Those who, bearing the character of teachers sent from God, nevertheless themselves break his commandments, and openly teach others to do so, being corrupt both in life and doctrine.
1771 text
4. But if those who even thus break and teach others to break, one of the least of these commandments, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven, shall have no part in the kingdom of Christ and of God; if even these shall be cast into outer darkness, where is wailing and gnashing of teeth: then where will they appear, whom our Lord chiefly and primarily intends in these words? They who bearing the character of teachers sent from God, do nevertheless themselves break his commandments, yea and openly teach others so to do: being corrupt both in life and doctrine.
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 25 in the 1771 Works. Matthew 5:17-20.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.