Epistle 294
George Fox's Epistle 294 highlights the supremacy of truth and the dire consequences for those who oppose it, contrasting the peace found in Christ with the troubles of the wicked.
George Fox emphasizes the supremacy of truth, asserting that it will ultimately prevail over those who oppose it, leading to their own downfall. He vividly describes the desolation that befalls the wicked when their false foundations crumble, leaving them in spiritual darkness and turmoil. Fox contrasts this with the peace found in Christ, which is only accessible through the covenant of light, warning that without it, one is destined for trouble. He calls for a recognition of the futility of opposing truth and the necessity of embracing the light of Christ for true peace.
Text
Friends, the truth is above all, and will stand over all [1 Esd 4:35-41] them that hate it, who labour in vain against it, and will bring their old house on their own heads [Psa 127:1?], to their great trouble; and in the winter, and cold weather, when that their house is down, and their religion is frozen, and their rivers are dried up, and their husks are gone, and the swine begin to cry about the plantations, and the vermin run up and down amongst their old rubbish, and their sparks and candles are gone out [Job 18:5f], and hail and storms lighteth upon the head of the wicked [Jer 23:19], then wo will be to Gog and Magog [Rev 20:8], and to all the wicked [Isa 3:11], who have no covering [Job 26:6?]. In Christ you have peace, in the world you have trouble [John 16:33].
No peace with God can be enjoyed, but in the covenant of light; without it trouble. Amen.
G. F.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - The supremacy of truth - Consequences of opposing truth
- II points: - The state of the wicked - Imagery of destruction and despair
- III points: - The contrast between peace in Christ and trouble in the world - The importance of the covenant of light
- IV points: - Warnings to the wicked - The inevitability of judgment
- V points: - The role of faith in overcoming trouble - Encouragement to remain steadfast
Key Quotes
“the truth is above all, and will stand over all them that hate it” — George Fox
“In Christ you have peace, in the world you have trouble” — George Fox
“No peace with God can be enjoyed, but in the covenant of light” — George Fox
Application Points
- Seek to understand and embrace the truth in your life.
- Recognize the importance of maintaining your faith during difficult times.
- Reflect on the peace that comes from a relationship with God through the covenant of light.