The Nature of Enthusiasm · §37 · John Wesley

Think before you speak

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And first, if enthusiasm is a term, though so frequently used, yet so rarely understood, take care not to talk of you know not what, not to use the word till you understand it. As in all other points, so likewise in this, learn to think before you speak. First know the meaning of this hard word, and then use it if need requires.

1771 text

33. And, first, If Enthusiasm be a term, tho’ so frequently used, yet so rarely understood, take you care, not to talk of you know not what, not to use the word, till you understand it. As in all other points, so likewise in this, learn to think before you speak. First, know the meaning of this hard word; and then use it, if need require.

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About this text

On Acts 26:24: what enthusiasm, or religious madness, is, the forms it takes, and how to avoid it without losing true religion.

EditionPrinted in Wesley's 1771 Works, which do not say when he preached it

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 37 in the 1771 Works. Acts 26:24.

We have not yet re-checked this work against its source. We put this English text into updated wording with AI help. No scholar has yet certified it as faithful and complete. Open the 1771 text under any part to compare.

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