The chains fall off
The word translated forgive implies either to forgive a debt or to unloose a chain. And if we attain the former, the latter follows of course. If our debts are forgiven, the chains fall off our hands. As soon as ever, through the free grace of God in Christ, we receive forgiveness of sins, we receive likewise a lot among those who are sanctified, by faith which is in him. Sin has lost its power (Romans 6:14). It has no dominion over those who are under grace, that is, in favor with God. As there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1), so they are freed from sin as well as from guilt. The righteousness of the law is fulfilled in them, and they walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit (Romans 8:4).
1771 text
The word translated forgive, implies either to forgive a debt, or to unloose a chain. And if we attain the former, the latter follows of course; if our debts are forgiven, the chains fall off our hands. As soon as ever, through the free grace of God in Christ, we receive forgiveness of sins, we receive likewise a lot among those which are sanctified, by faith which is in him. Sin has lost its power: it has no dominion over those, who are under grace, that is, in favour with God. As there is now no condemnation for them that are in Christ Jesus, so they are freed from sin as well as from guilt. The righteousness of the law is fulfilled in them, and they walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit.
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 26 in the 1771 Works. Matthew 6:1-15.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.