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Deliverance from consanguineous sin according to Wesley

Odilon Massolar Chaves

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Article 184 of the Penal Code and Law 96710 of February 19, 1998.

Books published in the Wesleyan Digital Library: 831

Books published by the author: 871

Address: https://bibliotecawesleyana.blogspot.com

Cover: Facebook José Viladecans

Odilon Massolar Chaves is a retired Methodist pastor, with a doctorate in Theology and History from the Methodist University of São Paulo.

Son of Rev. Adherico Ribeiro Chaves and Roza Massolar Chaves.

He is married to RoseMary.

He has two daughters: Liliana and Luciana.

His thesis dealt with the Methodist revival in England in the eighteenth century and its contribution as a paradigm for our days.

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Table of Contents

· Introduction

· What is consanguineous sin

· Enjoying a clear deliverance from consanguineous sin

· Total Salvation from Consanguineous Sin

· Deliverance from consanguineous sin

· He has delivered you from both consanguineous sin and actual sin

· Great salvation, deliverance from consanguineous sin

· Clear and direct testimony that she was saved from blood sin

· The Depth of Consanguineous Sin

· They enjoy the great salvation, deliverance from blood sin

· Until they are convinced of consanguineous sin

· Sanctified or Saved from Consanguineous Sin

· But you weren't totally convinced of the inbred sin

· Acceptance and Salvation from Consanguineous Sin

· You were justified in an instant, thus after a growing conviction of consanguineous sin

· Dwelling too heavily on our blood sin' can lead us "into a kind of bondage"

· Convinced of pride, self-will, irritation, or any other blood sin

· Strong faith that not only overcomes, but casts out sin

· Telling men that they will be saved from all sin

· No one can explain this except by the supposition of original sin

· Saved from Sin

· Pressing all believers to follow on to perfection and expecting deliverance from sin at every moment

· Complete deliverance from sin, I believe, is always instantaneous

· Declaring to believers that the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses from all sin

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Introduction

"Deliverance from Consanguineous Sin According to Wesley" is a book based on Wesley's letters.

Consanguineous sin or original sin is the state in which we are born.

Actual sin is a willful transgression: "To Wesley, real sin is just the conscious choice to disobey a law of God that you know. Original sin is the root that makes us tend to commit these." [1]

Justification, deliverance from sin, and perfection are essential doctrines within Wesley's theology.

In letters to Methodist leaders, in a sentence, paragraph, or longer text, Wesley encourages, counsels, or explains about consanguineous sin.

To Mrs. Barton in 1774, Wesley speaks of consanguineous sin and royal sin: "He has delivered you from the root of bitterness, both of consanguineous sin and of actual sin. And at that moment you were able to give him your whole heart, rejoice forever, and pray without ceasing." ^{^[2]}

The doctrine of deliverance from sin and perfection was for all Methodists. Writing to John Mason in 1774, Wesley said, "If you press all believers to go on to perfection and expect deliverance from sin at every moment, they will grow in grace. But if they ever lose that expectation, they will be cold and meaningless." ^{^[3]}

Wesley wrote to Arthur Keene in 1784 and made it clear that after deliverance from consanguineous sin will come sanctification: "Just as after a gradual conviction of the guilt and power of sin, you were justified in an instant, so after an increasing conviction of insanguine sin, you will be sanctified in an instant." ^{^[4]}

A forgotten topic among most Methodists and that needs to be reviewed and updated.

The Author

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What is consanguineous sin

Consanguineous sin is the sin inherited from Adam that passes from generation to generation. It is the same as original sin.

Wesley understands this heritage as follows:

"Consanguineous Sin (Original Sin): It is the state in which we are born. He describes it as a deep spot or fracture. Wesley teaches that being born with this weakness does not bring guilt before God. It's like being born with a genetic disease; You are not punished just for having it, but you need treatment.

Actual Sin (Willful Transgression): For Wesley, real sin is just the conscious choice to disobey a law of God that you know. Original sin is the root that makes us tend to commit these." ^{^[5]}

To Samuel Sparrow, in 1772, Wesley said: "The doctrine of Original Sin is certainly more humble to man than the opposite; and I do not know what honor we can do to God if we think that man has gone out of His hands in the condition in which he is now. I ask you to consider this, sir. Give a fair and impartial reading of that account of humanity in its present state contained in the book on Original Sin." ^{^[6]}

The actual sin "is the actual acts of sin. It is the conscious choice you make when you break a law of God, using your inherited sinful nature." ^{^[7]}

Essential points of Wesley's theology of consanguineous sin:

"Adam's Inheritance

Wesley taught that after the fall, mankind lost the moral image of God, which resulted in total depravity. This means that our nature has been affected to the root. We are born with a natural tendency toward selfishness, pride, and self-sufficiency.

Difference Between Consanguineous Sin and Current Sin

Consanguineous (Original) Sin: It is the condition of innate corruption. It is the "state" in which we find ourselves before Christ.

Actual (Voluntary) Sin: These are the wrong choices we make when we give in to this corrupted nature." [8]

Deliverance from consanguineous sin through grace

Wesley told Methodist Penelope Newman in 1772, "God gave him to enjoy a clear deliverance from consanguineous sin. The Lord loves you, and His grace is sufficient. Ask, and receive, so that your joy may be full." ^{^[9]}

"According to Wesley, no one can escape this nature by himself. However, God offers His love through three main steps:

1. Prevenient Grace: The grace that works even before we ask, giving us the desire to seek God.

2. Justification: When we believe in Jesus, God forgives the guilt of all our current sins and accepts us.

3. Sanctification (New Birth): The Holy Spirit begins to break the power of consanguineous sin within us. He does not remove this sinful nature immediately, but takes away his dominion over our lives." [10]

Writing to Mary Bosanquet in 1775, Wesley said, " A great difference between the outward and inward work of God is that inward holiness is for the most part instantaneous, given largely at the time when we are justified, or when we are sanctified or saved from consanguineous sin; but outward holiness is largely gradual." ^{^[11]}

3. "The Perfect Love

Wesley believed that, by the continuous action of the Holy Spirit, the Christian can attain Christian perfection (or holiness) in this life. This means that love of God and neighbor can become so full that the very being of 'consanguineous sin' (the inner root of sin) is purified, resulting in a life entirely dedicated to God."[12]

Writing to Arthur Keene in 1784, Wesley said, "Just as after a gradual conviction of the guilt and power of sin, you were justified in an instant, so after an increasing conviction of consanguineous sin, you will be sanctified in an instant."

In the letters to various people, especially leaders, Wesley speaks of blood sin:

Enjoying a clear deliverance from consanguineous sin

God gave him to enjoy a clear deliverance from blood sin. I hope you will find no return from that death, though you will certainly encounter innumerable temptations. But beware of discarding that confidence which brings great reward in reward. You never have to feel pride, anger, or any other evil temper again

To Penelope Newman

NEAR BRISTOL, MARCH 6, 1772.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- You are called to do all you can for God. How little is all this! Therefore, by all means, find this other class, and it will be a blessing to your own soul.

When I last spoke to you, God gave you to enjoy a clear deliverance from blood sin. I hope you will find no return from that death, though you will certainly encounter innumerable temptations. But beware of discarding that confidence which brings great reward in reward. You never have to feel pride, anger, or any other evil temper again. The Lord loves you, and His grace is sufficient for you. Ask, and receive, that your joy may be full.--I am, my dear sister,

With affection. [13]

Note: (Or congenital/innate sin) refers to original sin, the corruption of human nature inherited from Adam, and the root of selfishness present in humans (Google AI Mode Overview). ^{^[14]}

Total Salvation from Consanguineous Sin

This point, total salvation from consanguineous sin, can hardly be demanded, either in preaching or in prayer, without a specific blessing.

To Elizabeth Ritchie

LONDON, January 19, 1782.

I thought it was a little strange, my dear Betsy, not to hear from you for so long. But I attributed his silence to his bodily weakness, of which several of our friends sent me news.

From our brethren in various parts of England and Ireland, I have very pleasant reports of the unusual blessings which many have received in renewing their covenant with God. I'm glad to hear that you, in Otley, had your share.

This point, total salvation from consanguineous sin, can hardly be demanded, either in preaching or in prayer, without a specific blessing. Honest Isaac Brown [The Keighley Preacher. He is named in the Declaration Deed and is one of four to whom Wesley left any money found in his pockets and on the table after his death.] He firmly believes in this doctrine, that we must be saved from all sin in this life. But I would like you, when the opportunity arises, to encourage him (1) to preach Christian perfection, constantly, strongly, and explicitly; (2) explicitly affirm and prove that it can be received now, and (3) (which is in fact implied in it) that it must be received by simple faith.

In every state of mind, in conviction, justification, or sanctification, I believe that each person can retreat sensibly, appear to stop, or move on. I tend to think that all the people you mentioned were fully sanctified. But some of them, observing the prayer, went from faith to faith; while the others, less attentive, seemed to stand still, but in fact they were retreating imperceptibly. I wish you all increase with all the increase of God, I am

Always yours. ^{^[15]}

Deliverance from consanguineous sin

I rejoice to hear that you stand firm in the liberty with which Christ has set you free; and still more because, although many feel this heavenly gift, deliverance from consanguineous sin, so few, so few, retain it a year, hardly one in ten, or rather one in thirty

For Ms. Barton

TEWKESBURY, March 15, 1770.

MY DEAR SISTER,--I rejoice to hear that you stand firm in the freedom with which Christ has set you free; and still more because, although many feel this heavenly gift, deliverance from consanguineous sin, so few, so few, retain it for a year, hardly one in ten, or rather one in thirty. Hundreds in London became participants in it in sixteen or eighteen months; but I doubt whether twenty of them are now as holy and happy as they were. And therefore others doubted whether God intended this salvation to be enjoyed long. That many have it for a season, that they allow it, but they are not satisfied that someone keeps it always. Not going for one? You will see it, watch yourself, pray and continue to hang on to it. So you will always give cause for joy to, dear Jenny,

Your affectionate brother.

With Mrs. Jane Barton, at Norwood, Beverley, Yorkshire. ^{^[16]}

He has delivered you from both consanguineous sin and actual sin

He has delivered you from the root of bitterness, both from consanguineous sin and from actual sin. And in that moment you were able to give him your whole heart, rejoice forever, and pray without ceasing

For Ms. Barton

BRISTOL, October 8, 1774.

MY DEAREST SISTER,-- It is absolutely certain that God has given you the second blessing, so properly called. He has delivered you from the root of bitterness, both from consanguineous sin and from actual sin. And in that moment you were able to give him all your heart, rejoice forever, and pray without ceasing. After that, he allowed his work to be tested, sometimes as by fire. For a time you were not moved, but you could say in all things, 'Good is the will of the Lord.' But it seems that you have been giving in little by little until, to a certain extent, you have exhausted your strength. What have Brother Barton and you to do but get up at once and shake yourself off the dust? Shake the gift of God that is in you! Look to Him who is mighty to save! Is he not capable, in every way, of converting his captivity? He did not forget to be gracious; nor will He silence His loving-kindness in displeasure. He is a God almost at hand. Just believe; And help, while you still ask, is given! Trust Him and conquer all.--I am

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[17]}

Great salvation, deliverance from consanguineous sin

I trust that he will not find decay in his own soul, but rather a still increasing rigor. Some time ago, you enjoyed a measure of that great salvation, deliverance from consanguineous sin

To Lady Maxwell

NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE, 3 May 1777.

MY DEAREST MALADY,-- The new chapel which we are now building in London requires much of my attendance there, so that I cannot be conveniently absent for more than two Sundays together. So, when I left, I set Saturday, the 19th of the present, for my return; and ordered that notice be given of my project to attend classes the following week. Therefore, I cannot have the pleasure of seeing it now; which, if I could, I would very much desire. I love your spirit; I love your conversation; I love your correspondence: I have often received both profit and pleasure from it. I often miss more light; But I want more heat than light. And you have often been instrumental in conveying this to my soul, in encouraging me to run the glorious race. I trust that he will not find decay in his own soul, but rather a still increasing rigor. Some time ago, you enjoyed a measure of that great salvation, deliverance from consanguineous sin. Do you hold fast to what you have attained, and yet press forward, to be filled with all the fullness of God? There is the prize before you! Look up, believe and take as much as you want!

Wishing you all the blessing of the gospel, I remain, my dear Lady,

His ever-affectionate servant.

I heard that Sister Gow is gone. Was it in triumph or just in peace? ^{^[18]}

Clear and direct testimony that she was saved from blood sin

Have you ever received a clear and direct testimony that you have been saved from blood sin? At what time, in what way? And do you think it's as clear as it was in the beginning? Do you feel an increase? So I hope your love doesn't wane

To Elizabeth Baker

NEAR OXFORD, OCTOBER 29, 1789.

MY DEAR BETSY, -- You cannot easily imagine the great satisfaction I have received from your affectionate letter. [See letter of October 5.] I am glad that you write without reservation and are aware that your words come from the heart. What is this sympathy that often binds our hearts together? Maybe the first interview. It is certainly not intended that this should cease until it is perfected in eternity.

I am glad to know that the work of God does not decline, but rather increases in Monmouth. My dear friend, shake the gift of God that is in you. Warn everyone, exhort everyone! Don't worry about doing well! Over time, it will reap if it does not faint.

Still let your mind be bent, still plotting how and when and where the deal can be done.

With all the affection. [19]

The Depth of Consanguineous Sin

It is a good prayer,

Show me, how my soul can bear,

The depth of consanguineous sin!

And only so that He can take care of you; for He remembers that you are but dust. But you must not expect to be so and so convinced to be renewed in love.

To Mary Bishop

LONDON, June 20, 1770.

DEAR MISS BISHOP,-- At the moment you are exactly in your place; and I trust that no temptation, internal or external, will ever lead you to abandon the work to which God has called you. You should expect to be taken to the two extremes by turns—self-confidence and a lot of shyness. But it is certain that the first is the more dangerous of the two; and you need all the power of God to save yourself from it. And He will save you to the extreme, as long as you still maintain the feeling of poverty and powerlessness.

It is a good prayer,

Show me, how my soul can bear,

The depth of consanguineous sin!

And only so that He can take care of you; for He remembers that you are but dust. But you must not expect to be so and so convinced to be renewed in love. No: pray now for the whole mind that was in Christ; and you will have more and more conviction as He wills. Mr. Spencer [See letters of September 13, 1769, and October 12, 1771.] and Glynne are of excellent spirit, notwithstanding their opinion. I hardly know my colleagues. Love is all we want; Let that fill our hearts, and that's enough. Peace be with your spirit,-- I am

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[20]}

They enjoy the great salvation, deliverance from blood sin

It is to be expected that more than half of those who not only profess great deeds, but actually enjoy the great salvation, deliverance from consanguineous sin, will eventually be driven away from their steadfastness.

To Mary Bishop

SUNDERLAND, June 17, 1774.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- It is strange that I never know of your illness until I know of your recovery. Both were made for blessings, and I doubt it hasn't proved to you. Since I first saw you, I haven't seen much reason to scold. But we all need advice and exhortations, or we would soon become weary and weak in our minds. It is to be expected that more than half of those who not only profess great deeds, but actually enjoy the great salvation, deliverance from consanguineous sin, will eventually be driven away from their steadfastness. Some of them, in fact, will recover what they have lost; others will die in their sins. Observing this should incite us to double vigilance so as not to fall into their example.

The English language is derived from German: in both, the imperfect tense in the indicative mood is usually equal to or nearly equal to the participle, and must be distinguished from it by the preceding and following words.--I am, my dear sister, Yours affectionately. [21]

Until they are convinced of consanguineous sin

To Ann Bolton

WORCESTER, March 15, 1775.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- If I could have seen you, even if it had been only for an hour, it would have given me a very sensible satisfaction. I cannot easily express this union of mind that I feel whenever I think of you. I do not know what it is in all his spirit and behavior that has always given me an indescribable pleasure; and when I look at you (you know to whom the glory is due!), I am often ready to cry out, 'Thou, perfect standard of true womanhood!' But I know that good is the will of the Lord; Therefore, I am satisfied. If it is better, I shall see my dear friend again before I make my long journey; And if I don't see you until we meet in a better world,

Surely our disembodied souls will unite,

Surely my friendly shade will blend in with yours.

To die is not to lose; But our union will be more complete in the world of spirits than it can be while we live in clay corks.

Certainly, until people experience something of the second awakening, until they are convinced of consanguineous sin to groan sincerely for deliverance from it, we need not speak to them about present sanctification. We must first work to implant this conviction in them. When you feel this, hunger and thirst for full salvation, then it is time to show that you are near, you can be received now by simple faith.

Now I can hardly hope (if I live to return to England) to see her before next autumn. Allow me, however, to have the pleasure of listening to you; and make a place in your memory and your prayers for, my dear Nancy,

His brother always affectionate.

Straight to me in Dublin.

To Ms. Bolton, in Witney, ^{^[22]}

Sanctified or Saved from Consanguineous Sin

A great difference between the outward and inward work of God is that inward holiness is for the most part instantaneous, given largely at the time when we are justified, or when we are sanctified or saved from consanguineous sin; but outward holiness is largely gradual

To Mary Bosanquet

WESTMINSTER, November 15, 1775.

MY DEAR SISTER,-- I cannot give an immediate answer to your question, as we have not yet received an answer from the Committee for the grant of the city lands. If they grant our petition and allow us land to build on (as they are very likely to do), there will be no time for anyone to come to London in the hope of getting money for other buildings. Our friends will certainly give everything they can to build a new Foundation, and everything will be little.

I think it would be good for you to do a thorough consultation with two or three friends of ours who understand the world. Certainly these can be found in Leeds or nearby. And whatever was judged best should be carried out swiftly and rigorously.--I am, my dear sister,

His brother always affectionate. [23]

But you weren't totally convinced of the inbred sin

But you were not wholly convinced of the consanguineous sin—the sin of your nature. God is now convicting you of this to give you a clean heart; and Satan strives to drive him to despair

For James Copeland

GLASGOW, May 14, 1786.

MY DEAR BROTHER, - There is no reasonable doubt that you had at the time to mention a real blessing from God. I do not question that He then gave you a taste of forgiving love; But you were not wholly convinced of the consanguineous sin—the sin of your nature. God is now convicting you of this to give you a clean heart; and Satan strives to drive him to despair. But don't consider it. Look to Jesus; I dare to believe that I crave Christ! Wrestle with Christ in mighty prayer. Yes,

A sigh will reach His heart; One look

It will bring it from the sky.

He's nearby! - I'm

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[24]}

Acceptance and Salvation from Consanguineous Sin

I hope you will still find in yourself a testimony, not only of your acceptance, but of your salvation from consanguineous sin and of your wholeheartedly loving God

To Thomas Tattershall

DUBLIN, May 3, 1783.

DEAR TOMMY, -- I thank Brother Robinson [The preachers on the Isle of Man were Jasper Robinson, Jonathan Brown, and Thomas Tattershall. Robinson died on December 6, 1797, after twenty-three years of fruitful ministry; and Tattershall in 1821, after forty years of service.] for your letter, and I hope we can soon provide you with books. Currently, we have very little persecution than too much. [See Diary, vi. 321-2.] We have few enough to keep us awake. Send me as specific an account as possible of everything that has to do with Mary Casement. I hope you will still find in yourself a testimony, not only of your acceptance, but of your salvation from blood sin and of your wholehearted loving God. And you must constantly and explicitly exhort all believers to aspire to it, and encourage them to expect it now.

Brother Robinson's counsel here is good. If you wanted to learn the Manx language, I congratulated you; But it is not worth learning Greek or Latin. Brother Robinson was to send me to London with the details of the young man's death.

My affection for Barrow and Brother Brown. -- I am, dear Tommy,

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[25]}

You were justified in an instant, thus after a growing conviction of consanguineous sin

Just as after a gradual conviction of the guilt and power of sin, you were justified in an instant, so after an increasing conviction of consanguineous sin, you will be sanctified in an instant

For Arthur Keene

BRIDLINGTON, June 21, 1784.

MY DEAR BROTHER, "I agree with you in hoping that Brother Blair's work will be a blessing to many in Dublin; in fact, because he not only preaches, but also lives the gospel. And wherever a man's life confirms his doctrine, God will confirm the word of His messenger.

I am happy to know that the school has a good success. It is an excellent institution. I'm very glad that Richard Condy's brother came to help him. [See March 3 letter to Keene.] I hope Brother Condy will continue to go out on Sunday at noon to the small towns around Dublin. We try all the little towns in London, and we have societies in most of them. What a pity that we have neglected so long the small towns around Dublin, and that we have no Society within ten miles of it

During Mr. Pawson's present state of health, he would be of little use in Dublin. You want preachers who are lively, zealous, and active. And, to tell a melancholy truth, few of our older preachers have this character. You should seek zeal and activity among the young preachers. I am very much scandalized at this, that a fifty-year-old preacher is usually only half a preacher. I wonder that every preacher does not use the prayer of Bishop Stratford, [Nicholas Stratford (1633-1707), Bishop of Chester 1689.] 'Lord, don't let me live to be useless.' A gradual work of grace constantly precedes the instantaneous work of both justification and sanctification. But the work itself (of sanctification as well as of justification) is undoubtedly instantaneous. Just as after a gradual conviction of the guilt and power of sin, you were justified in an instant, so after an increasing conviction of consanguineous sin, you will be sanctified in an instant. And who knows how fast Why not now? May all the blessing of the gospel be upon you and Sister Keene! - I am, dear Arthur,

Your affectionate brother.

To Mr. Arthur Keene, in Dublin. ^{^[26]}

Dwelling too heavily on our blood sin' can lead us "into a kind of bondage"

In the Conference minutes we have observed that 'dwelling too heavily on our consanguineous sin' can lead us 'into a kind of bondage' —that is, when we fix, as it were, both eyes of the mind upon it; while the one alone must be fixed in it, and the other constantly in Christ

To Mr. -- Editor's Introductory Notes: 1759

EVERTON, August 6, 1759

DEAR LORD,--In the minutes of the Conference we have observed that 'dwelling too much on our consanguineous sin' can bring us 'into a kind of bondage' — that is, when we fix, as it were, both eyes of the mind upon it; while the one alone must be fixed in it, and the other constantly in Christ. One with whom I conversed a day or two, who seems to have come into rest just by looking upon sin, had lost all her joy and peace, and almost her faith, and was like an unbelieving damn; while her friend (who I judge to be higher in grace than she) only felt an inexpressible desire and emptiness (but consistent with peace and love) until she was filled with the fullness of God. Ah, follow in his footsteps! Be simple, small, nothing: but be loved by God! but a member of Christ, a child of God! an heir of all His promises! Be still, and know that He is God! Obmutesce, pulvis et cinis. Kai Genhsetai Galhnh h Megalh. ['Become dumb, dust and ashes. And there will be a great calm.' A piece of the letter was torn off; but that seems to be its substance.] ^{^[27]}

Convinced of pride, self-will, irritation, or any other blood sin

Therefore, however deeply you may be convinced of pride, self-will, irritation, or any other consanguineous sin, see to it that you do not let go of that confidence by which you can still rejoice in God your Savior

For Miss Helena.March

Editor's Introductory Notes: 1760

WEDNESBURY, March 4, 1760.

Certainly, the more freedom you use, the more advantage you will find. But at the same time, it will be necessary to continually remind you from whom all good and perfect gifts come. If He blesses our relationships with one another, then we will never regret the work.

It is truly a blessing when God reveals our hearts and shows us clearly what spirit we are from. But there is no need for this self-knowledge to make us unhappy. Certainly the highest degree of this is quite consistent with both peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Therefore, however deeply convinced you may be of pride, self-will, irritation, or any other consanguineous sin, see that you do not let go of that confidence by which you can still rejoice in God your Savior. Some, indeed, have been quite unhappy, though they have kept their faith, by desire on the one hand, and conviction on the other. But that's nothing to you; You need never give up anything you have already received: you will not open it, if you keep close to it,-- Therefore my vehement soul remains motionless; Restless, resigned, so I wait. We have a fuller and clearer knowledge of our own members than of those belonging to other Societies; and therefore may, without any culpable bias, have a better opinion of them.

It's great to devote all of our time to the glory of God. But you need not be scrupulous as to the exact time of reading and prayer; I mean, as for the division between one and the other. A few minutes on one side or the other are of little importance.

May He who loves you fill you with His pure love--I am Your loving brother. ^{^[28]}

Strong faith that not only overcomes, but casts out sin

Let them go from faith to faith—from weak faith to that strong faith which not only overcomes, but casts out sin. Meanwhile, it is certain that many call themselves believers who do not even overcome sin, who are strangers to the whole inner kingdom of God and devoid of all the fruit of the Spirit

To Joseph Benson, Edinburgh

LONDON, January 8, 1774.

DEAR JOSEPH,-- Many people run the risk of reading little; You run the risk of reading too much. Wherever you are, take up your cross and visit the whole Society from house to house. Do this according to Mr. Baxter's plan, set forth in the Minutes of the Conference [See Minutes of 1766; works, viii. 302-3, 315]. The fruit that will secure (perhaps in a short time) will abundantly reward your labor. Fruit we will also have, even in those who have no external connection with us.

I am glad that you 'press all believers' to aspire to the full freedom of God's children. They must not give up faith to do this; Here you seemed to be in some mistake. Let them go from faith to faith—from weak faith to that strong faith which not only overcomes, but casts out sin. Meanwhile, it is certain that many call themselves believers who do not even overcome sin, who are strangers to the whole inner kingdom of God and devoid of all the fruit of the Spirit.

We should not continue in Dunbar in this way. In fact, we should get out of here. For who will pay this debt

On Tuesday I was under the surgeon's hands, but now (bless God) I am completely recovered [See next letter].--I am, dear Joseph,

With affection. ^{^[29]}

Telling men that they will be saved from all sin

I think that from long experience it comes to exactly the same point: to tell men that they will be saved from all sin when they die; or say that it could be a year from now, or a week, or any time but now. Our word is of no avail either in justification or in sanctification, unless we can lead them to expect the blessing while we speak

To your brother Charles

PERTH, April 26, 1772.

DEAR BROTHER,-- Mr. Buller meant. [See letter of March 25.] I have not been to Leeds; so I can't give you any account on the subject.

I think that from long experience it comes to exactly the same point: to tell men that they will be saved from all sin when they die; or say that it could be a year from now, or a week, or any time but now. Our word is of no avail, either in justification or in sanctification, unless we can lead them to expect the blessing while we speak.

I hope Fox [John Fox, London. See Diary, v. 5.] he is at peace. But he had nothing to do with it. I suppose the madman was another name. I'm glad you did justice to Mrs. Blackwell [She passed away on March 27. Charles had written some memorial verses, which are present in his Diary, ii. 383-9.] memory.

I do not believe that Brother Wildman or anyone else said those words. I can't believe it, unless you or Brother Mather have heard it. Many tell stories of this kind that are not true.

Your business, like mine, is to save souls. When we received orders from priests, we pledged to make it our only business. I think every day wasted, which is not (mostly) employed in this thing. Sum totus in illo. [Satires of Horace, I. ix. 2 (Totus in illis): 'I am fully occupied with this.']

I'm glad you'll be in Bristol soon. To whom shall I leave my papers and letters [He finally bequeathed, by will, on February 20, 1789, all his 'MSS. to Thomas Coke, Dr. Whitehead, and Henry Moore, to be burned, or published as they see fit.'] I'm completely lost. I think Mr. Fletcher is the best that happens. ^{^[30]}

No one can explain this except by the supposition of original sin

We see with our eyes and hear with our ears daily. Pagans, Turks, Jews, Christians, of all nations, are those men who are there described. Such are the temperaments, such the manners, of lords, gentlemen, clergymen in England, as well as of merchants and low-ranking vulgar. No man in his senses can deny; and no one can explain this except by the supposition of original sin

To Samuel Sparrow

NEAR LORDS, July 2, 1772.

DEAR SIR,-- I have postponed answering your favor from time to time, waiting for a free time to answer it. But when this relief will come, I don't know for sure; for in the summer months I am almost continually on the move. So I will no longer postpone, but write a little as I can, although not as I would.

I tend to think that when you were engaged in business, though you had no spare time to read polemical writers, you had time to converse with those who ridiculed the doctrines in which you had hitherto believed, and perhaps to hear a preacher who did not believe in them and spoke largely against human authority, bodies of theology, doctrinal systems, and compilation of creeds. These declamations would certainly make an impression on an inexperienced mind, especially when confirmed by frequent disagreements about translators' mistakes; although I truly believe that our English translation, with all its defects, is the best translation of the Bible currently in the world. When you heard much of this kind, it was time to present arguments according to the cause offered; Which, to such a prepared mind, would naturally seem so many demonstrations. And it is no wonder that, by borrowing a few books and commenting properly on them, these new apostles confirm the sentiments which they had so ably infused.

To the questions you propose, I answer:--

1. I really think that if a hundred or a hundred thousand sincere, honest men (I add humble, modest, self-confident) were attentive and careful to read the New Testament, without the influence of any but the Holy Spirit, nine out of ten of them, at least, if not all, would discover that the Son of God was 'adorable' and one God with the Father; and they were immediately led to "honor him, just as they honored the Father"; which would be a disgusting and undeniable idolatry, unless He and the Father are one.

2. The doctrine of Original Sin is certainly more humble to man than the opposite; and I do not know what honor we can do to God if we think that man has gone out of His hands in the condition in which he is now. I ask you to consider this, sir. Give a fair and impartial reading of that account of humanity in its present state contained in the book on Original Sin. It is not a game of imagination, but a clear and clear fact. We see with our eyes and hear with our ears daily. Pagans, Turks, Jews, Christians, of all nations, are those men who are there described. Such are the temperaments, such the manners, of lords, gentlemen, clergymen in England, as well as of merchants and low-ranking vulgar. No man in his senses can deny; and no one can explain this except by the supposition of original sin.

O sir, how important is this! Can you refuse to worship the One whom 'all the angels of God worship'? But if you worship someone who is not the supreme God, you are an idolater! Entrusting you and yours under your care, I, dear sir,

His affectionate servant. ^{^[31]}

Saved from Sin

We believe that we must be here saved from sin and enabled to love God with all our heart

To George Blackall

LONDON, February 25, 1783.

MY DEAR BROTHER, -- St. Paul teaches that it is in heaven that we are to unite ourselves with the 'spirits of perfect righteous men,' in the sense that we cannot be on earth or even in paradise. In paradise the souls of good men rest from their labors, and are with Christ from death to resurrection. This is nothing like Popish purgatory, where wicked men are supposed to be tormented in purifying fire until they are sufficiently purified to have a place in heaven. But we believe (like the ancient Church) that no one suffers after death but those who suffer eternally. We believe that we must be here saved from sin and enabled to love God with all our heart. -- I am... ^{^[32]}

Pressing all believers to follow on to perfection and expecting deliverance from sin at every moment

If you push all believers to follow to perfection and expect deliverance from sin at every moment, they will grow in grace. But if they ever lose that expectation, they will be cold and meaningless

For John Mason

LONDON, January 10, 1774.

MY DEAR BROTHER,-- It is not strange that those who love the world do not like to continue with us. Our road is very tight.

Going down the stream of nature,

They seek a wider path to heaven.

However, let's keep the good old way; And we know that this will bring us peace in the end.

If you push all believers to follow to perfection and expect deliverance from sin at every moment, they will grow in grace. But if they ever lose that expectation, they will become cold and meaningless.

Last week, I was under the surgeon's hands; but now (blessed be God) I am better than I have been in a few years.--I am Your affectionate friend and brother. ^{^[33]}

Complete deliverance from sin, I believe, is always instantaneous

Gradual sanctification can increase from the time you were justified; But complete deliverance from sin, I believe, is always instantaneous—at least, I've never known an exception

For Sarah Rutter

LONDON, December 5, 1789.

MY DEAR SISTER, -- I am glad that the little Society of St. Neots continues in peace and love. [See letters of July 29, 1789, and July 27, 1790.] I would gladly visit you and all the Societies within a hundred miles of London once a year; but now I am obliged to give it up. They multiply too fast. So now there's several of them, which I can only see once every two years. I am very pleased with the account you give about yourself. It seems that God has treated you very generously; and, without a doubt, He is able and willing to supply all your needs. Gradual sanctification can increase from the time you were justified; But complete deliverance from sin, I believe, is always instantaneous—at least, I've never known an exception. Peace be with your spirits! -- I am, my dear Sally,

With great affection. ^{^[34]}

Declaring to believers that the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses from all sin

You have a good incentive to put all your strength into publishing the good news of salvation. You are especially called to declare to believers that the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses from all sin

To Joseph Entwisle and David Gordon

SCARBOROUGH, June 20, 1784.

MY DEAR BROTHER, - With little time, I take the opportunity to answer you two together. You have great reason to bless God continually, who has dealt so graciously with you. You have a good incentive to put all your strength into publishing the good news of salvation. You are especially called to declare to believers that the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses from all sin. Watch and pray that you may be small in your own eyes. - I am, my dear brothers,

Your affectionate brother. ^{^[35]}

[1] Overview of Google's AI Mode

[2] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1774/

[3] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1774/

[4] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1784/

[5] Overview of Google's AI Mode

[6] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[7] Overview of Google's AI Mode

[8] Overview of Google's AI Mode

[9] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[10] Overview of Google's AI Mode

[11] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1775/

[12] Overview of Google's AI Mode

[13] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[14] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[15] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1782/

[16] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1770/

[17] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1774/

[18] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1777/

[19] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1789/

[20]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1770/

[21] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1774/

[22] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1775/

[23] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1775/

[24] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1786/

[25] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1783/

[26] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1784/

[27] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1759/

[28] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1760/

[29] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1774/

[30] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[31] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/

[32] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1783/

[33] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1774/

[34] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1789/

[35] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1784/

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