conceives, it would bring forth; and that it does not is for the most
CHAPTER 13.
Several ways that the bringing forth of conceived sin is obstructed.
BEFORE we proceed to the remaining evidences of the power of the law of sin, we shall look at the Scripture which was the foundation of our discourse of the deceitfulness of sin, namely, James 1:14. The apostle tells us that "lust conceiving brings forth sin;" seeming to intimate, that the sin which is conceived is brought forth. Now, placing the conception of sin in the consent of the will to it, and the bringing forth of sin in its actual commission, we know that these do not necessarily follow one another. There is a world of sin conceived in the womb of the wills and hearts of men that is never brought forth. How does that come to pass? I answer, then, -
1. That this is not so, is no thanks to sin nor the law of it. What it conceives, it would bring forth; and that it does not is for the most part but a small abatement of its guilt. A will to sin is actual sin. There is nothing wanting on sin's part that every conceived sin is not actually accomplished. The prevention lies elsewhere.
2. There are two things that are necessary in the creature that has conceived sin, to bring it forth; - first, Power; secondly, Continuance in the will of sinning until it is committed. Where these two are, actual sin will unavoidably follow. So what hinders conceived sin from being brought forth must affect either the power or the will of the sinner. This must be from God. And he has two ways of doing it:
(1.) By his providence, whereby he obstructs the power of sinning.
(2.) By his grace, whereby he diverts or changes the will to sin. There is much of grace in providence, and much of the wisdom of providence seen in grace. But I distinguish them, because they thus appear most important; - providence, in acts towards the creature; grace, in internal working in his will. And we shall begin with the first: -