Page:A Beacon to the Society of Friends.djvu/127

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SER. VII.
QUIETISM, AS REGARDS WORKS.
123

EXTRACT IV.

Quietude sometimes delusive.

"Is it possible that by our own exertions, we could bring ourselves into this quiet? No! by no ability of our own could we effect it. Then have we not reason to attribute to Almighty God this quietude and stillness; which I consider a very great mercy." p. 147.


How easy is it for man to delude himself, when he does not take the Scripture for his guide! What is meant by "this quiet?" Can the "peace of God" be experienced by any but the regenerate; and can they be "renewed in the spirit of their minds," who believe not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ?




SERMON VII.




EXTRACT I.

Quietism, as regards works.

"Jesus acted in the perfect wisdom of his heavenly Father; and in his perfect goodness, he did not leave them to guess, or examine, or search for themselves at all. But he called their attention out of all searches, works, and exercises whatever, into a state of resignation to the will of God." p. 155.


We know not where the Lord Jesus called his followers out of all searches, works, and exercises.