He, then, that would really, thoroughly, and acceptably mortify any disquieting lust, let him take care to be equally diligent in all parts of obedience, and know that every lust, every omission of duty, is burdensome to God, though but one is so to him.
Interpretation
True obedience involves addressing all desires and duties, not just those that are troublesome.
In this quote, John Owen emphasizes the importance of comprehensive obedience in the moral and spiritual life of an individual. He argues that to truly overcome any troubling desires or lusts, one must also pay attention to all aspects of their duties, as neglect in even minor actions can be burdensome to God. This highlights the idea that a holistic approach to virtue and duty is essential for genuine moral integrity.
In practice
This quote could be shared in a moral philosophy class discussion about virtue.
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).
Free will is "corrupted nature's deformed darling, the Pallas or beloved self-conception of darkened minds"
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.
Contraceptive protection is something every woman must have access to, to control her own destiny.
Herein lies the tragedy of the age: Not that men are poor, - all men know something of poverty. Not that men are wicked, - who is good? Not that men are ignorant, - what is truth? Nay, but that men know so little of men.
The Catechism was not written to please you. It will not make life easy for you, because it demands of you a new life.
I repeat that the poor, the sufferers from leprosy, the rejected, the alcoholics, whom we serve, are beautiful people. Many of them have wonderful personalities. The experience which we have by serving them, we must pass on to people who have not had that wonderful experience.
The state is nothing but an instrument of opression of one class by another - no less so in a democratic republic than in a monarchy.
To die will be an awfully big adventure.
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