Epistle 278
George Fox's Epistle 278 stresses the necessity of discipline and authority in guiding youth to honor God.
George Fox preaches about the importance of apprentices serving faithfully according to covenant, emphasizing the need for order and discipline to prevent youth from falling into dishonor by indulging in looseness. He warns against giving too much freedom to the youth, as true liberty is found in Christ Jesus, who gives authority over behaviors that dishonor God.
Text
And friends, see that all apprentices that are bound amongst you may serve out their times faithfully, according to covenant, that all may know their places; for youth, if they be let loose, are like wild asses [Job 39:5], and wild heifers [Hos 10:11]; and such many times bring a great dishonour to God [Rom 2:23], by running into looseness; which are more fit to be under rule and order, than to rule; and through a foolish pity of some, they let up a great deal of airiness and wildness in them: all which should be kept under by the power of God, wherein the honour of the Lord may be preserved; and so, that liberty may not be given to youth in those cases; for the true liberty is in Christ Jesus [Gal 5:1], which gives authority over that which will dishonour God. . . . <25> . . .
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Sermon Outline
- I points: - Importance of Faithfulness in Apprenticeship - Consequences of Looseness - Role of Authority in Guiding Youth
- II points: - Understanding True Liberty in Christ - Contrast Between Worldly Freedom and Spiritual Authority - Preserving God's Honor Through Discipline
- III points: - The Dangers of Airiness and Wildness - The Need for Order in Youth - Encouragement to Uphold Covenants
Key Quotes
“youth, if they be let loose, are like wild asses” — George Fox
“true liberty is in Christ Jesus” — George Fox
“which are more fit to be under rule and order, than to rule” — George Fox
Application Points
- Encourage youth to understand the value of commitment and discipline in their roles.
- Promote the idea that true freedom comes from following Christ's teachings.
- Foster an environment where authority is respected to maintain order and honor God.