The Circumcision of the Heart · §6 · John Wesley

Cleansed from sin

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I am, first, to inquire into what that circumcision of the heart consists in which will receive the praise of God. In general we may observe that it is that habitual disposition of soul which, in the sacred writings, is termed holiness, and which directly implies being cleansed from sin, from all filthiness both of flesh and spirit (2 Corinthians 7:1), and, in consequence, being endowed with those virtues which were also in Christ Jesus, being so renewed in the image of our mind as to be perfect, as our Father in heaven is perfect.

1771 text

I. 1. I am, first, to enquire, wherein that circumcision of heart consists, which will receive the praise of God. In general we may observe, it is that habitual disposition of soul, which in the sacred writings is termed holiness, and which directly implies, the being cleansed from sin, from all filthiness both of flesh and spirit, and by consequence, the being endued with those virtues, which were also in Christ Jesus, the being so renewed in the image of our mind, as to be perfect, as our Father in heaven is perfect.

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About this text

Preached at Oxford on 1 January 1733 on Romans 2:29: the holiness of heart God asks for, in humility, faith, hope and love.

EditionPrinted in the 1771 Works. Preached at Saint Mary's, Oxford, before the University, on 1 January 1733

Wesley's own sermon in updated English wording. The 1771 panel is the text of the Works Wesley himself had printed in 1771. It is public domain.

Reference

Sermon 17 in the 1771 Works. Romans 2:29. Saint Mary's, Oxford, 1 January 1733.

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