Wesley Corpus

He is not speaking here of the cause of our justification, but the fruits of it. Therefore, that unnatural sense of his words does not at all “agree with the tenor of his arguing.” I totally deny the criticism on 8.xxioavvm and Bixaloux, and cannot conceive on what authority it is founded. O how deep an aversion to inward holiness does this scheme naturally create 1 (Page 140.) “The righteousness they attained could not be any personal righteousness.” (Page 142) Certainly it was: It was implanted as well as imputed. “For ‘instruction in righteousness, in the righteousness of Christ.” (Page 145.) Was there ever such a comment before? The plain meaning is, “for training up in holiness” of heart and of life. “He shall convince the world of righteousness;” that I am not a sinner, but innocent and holy. (Page 146.) “‘That we might be made the righteousness of God in him. Not intrinsically, but imputatively.” (Page 148.) Both the one and the other. God, through him, first accounts and then makes us righteous. Accordingly, “‘The righteousness which is of God by faith, is both imputed and inherent.” (Page 152.) “My faith fixes on both the meritorious life and atoning death of Christ.” (Page 153.) Here we clearly agree. Hold then to this, and never talk of the former without the latter. If you do, you cannot say, “Here we are exposed to no hazard.” Yes, you are to an exceeding great one; even the hazard of living and dying without holiness. And then we are lost for ever. The Sixth Letter contains an admirable account of the earth and atmosphere, and comprises abundance of sense in a narrow compass, expressed in beautiful language. 332 PREFACE to Gems have “a seat on the virtuous fair one’s breast.” (Page 177.) I cannot reconcile this with St. Paul. He says, “Not with pearls;” by a parity of reason, Not with diamonds. But in all things I perceive you are too favourable, both to “the desire of the flesh, and the desire of the eye.” You are a gentle casuist as to every self-indulgence which a plentiful fortune can furnish. “Our Saviour’s obedience.” (Page 182.) O say, with the good old Puritans, “Our Saviour's death or merits!” We swarm with Antinomians on every side. Why are you at such pains to increase their number?