Galatians 4:29 But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now. When the powers of the world give any rest, yet the carnal seed will be mocking and scoffing, and bringing God's holy ways into contempt, branding them with censures and calumnies. The reasons of this are partly because men are drunk with the delusions of the flesh, and so cannot judge of spiritual things; and partly to excuse themselves. Men will be quarrelling at religion when they have no mind to practise it, and dispute away duties when they are unwilling to perform them; partly they take occasion from the failings of God's people, though there is no reason why they should do so. An art should not be condemned for the workman's want of skill; but they do so. If Christians be serious then religion is counted an uncomfortable thing. If there be any differences among God's people, because of their several degrees of light, oh, then there are so many sects and factions and controversies about religion, they suspect all. If any creep into the holy profession, and pollute it with their scandals, then all strictness in religion is but a pretence and imposture. If men be strict and would avoid every ordinary failing incident to mankind, then they are more nice than wise, and this is preciseness and indiscretion. (T. Manton, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now. |
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