Free will is "corrupted nature's deformed darling, the Pallas or beloved self-conception of darkened minds"
Interpretation
This quote suggests that free will is a flawed concept born from corrupted nature and dark thoughts.
John Owen's quote critiques the notion of free will by implying that it is a misguided belief rooted in human corruption and darkness. He likens this concept to a cherished but flawed ideal that is shaped by the imperfections and limitations of the human mind, thus questioning the integrity of our autonomy and the clarity of our decisions.
In practice
In a discussion about moral responsibility, one might reference this quote to illustrate the complexities of free will.
Because he is; that is, because he is an infinitely glorious, good, wise, holy, powerful, righteous, self-subsisting , self-sufficient , and all-sufficient being; the fountain and author of all being and good; the first cause, last end, and sovereign Lord of all; therefore, he is to be worshipped: therefore, are we to admire, adore, and love him; to praise, to trust and to fear him.
If I have observed anything by experience, it is this: a man may take the measure of his growth and decay in grace according to his thoughts and meditations upon the person of Christ, and the glory of Christ's Kingdom, and of His love.
Mortification is the soul's vigorous opposition to self, wherein sincerity is most evident.
The growth of trees and plants takes place so slowly that it is not easily seen. Daily we notice little change. But, in course of time, we see that a great change has taken place. So it is with grace. Sanctification is a progressive, lifelong work (Prov 4:18). It is an amazing work of God's grace and it is a work to be prayed for (Rom 8:27).
A man may be carried on in a constant course of mortification all his days; and yet perhaps never enjoy a good day of peace and consolation.
There are two things that are suited to humble the souls of men, and they are, first, a due consideration of God, and then of themselves - of God, in His greatness, glory, holiness, power, majesty, and authority; of ourselves, in our mean, abject, and sinful condition.
The real problem is not whether machines think but whether men do.
We should not have a petty regard for God's gifts, though we may and should despise our own imperfections.
This is so American, man: either make something your God and cosmos and then worship it, or else kill it.
Our present will become the past of other men and women. We depend on them to remember it with the complexity with which it was suffered. As others, once, depended on us.
I think it's in human nature to want to have more, to compete with the other and, at some level, to be dissatisfied if someone else has more than you.
A Union that can only be maintained by swords and bayonets has no charm for me. If the Union is dissolved and government disrupted, I shall return to my native state and share the miseries of my people, and save in defense will draw my sword on none.
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