Universal, not partial
Christian righteousness exceeds theirs, first, in its extent. Most of the Pharisees, though they were rigorously exact in many things, were yet emboldened by the traditions of the elders to set aside others of equal importance. Thus they were extremely punctual in keeping the fourth commandment. They would not even rub an ear of corn on the Sabbath day (Matthew 12:1). But not at all in keeping the third, making little account of light, or even false, swearing. So that their righteousness was partial, whereas the righteousness of a real Christian is universal. He does not observe one, or some parts, of the law of God and neglect the rest, but keeps all his commandments, loves them all, values them above gold or precious stones (Psalm 19:10).
1771 text
Christian righteousness exceeds theirs, first, in the extent of it. Most of the Pharisees, though they were rigorously exact in many things, yet were emboldened by the traditions of the elders to dispense with others of equal importance. Thus they were extremely punctual in keeping the fourth commandment; they would not even rub an ear of corn on the sabbath day: But not at all in keeping the third, making little account of light, or even false swearing. So that their righteousness was partial: whereas the righteousness of a real Christian is universal. He does not observe one, or some parts of the law of God, and neglect the rest; but keeps all his commandments, loves them all, values them above gold or precious stones.
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.