A second volume of discourses or sermons on several scriptures

Now, from the consideration of these Two Particulars, I shall lay down this Fourth Position, concerning Abstinence from the Appearance of Evil, in respect of others; and that is, if the Appearance of Evil is to others, and not to our selves, then in some Cases we are bound in Duty and Conscience to abstain from it, and in others not: Whatever hath the Show or Appearance of Evil in it, it must either be commanded, and so it is necessary; or else it is left indifferent and arbitrary; and accordingly we may take these following Rules.

Now, from the consideration of these Two Particulars, I shall lay down this Fourth Position, concerning Abstinence from the Appearance of Evil, in respect of others; and that is, if the Appearance of Evil is to others, and not to our selves, then in some Cases we are bound in Duty and Conscience to abstain from it, and in others not: Whatever hath the Shew or Appearance of Evil in it, it must either be commanded, and so it is necessary; or else it is left indifferent and arbitrary; and accordingly we may take these following Rules.

First, If so be those things that appear evil only to others, either are in themselves, or at least they appear to us to be commanded, and so necessary, we are bound not to regard; yea, we are bound to despise and scorn the Scruples of all the World; if they will be offended at us for doing of that which is our duty, let them be offended; we may in this case use the same Plea that the Apostles did, Acts 4.19. Whether it be right before the Lord to obey Men, rather than God, judge ye. To perform a Duty, can be but a Scandal to men at the most, and those also usually of the profaner sort; but to omit a Duty for fear of Scandalizing men, is a Scandal and an Offence even unto God himself. It is most preposterous Charity to run upon Sin in our selves, only to prevent Scandal in others. Though all the World censure Holiness and Strictness of Life to be only a sour and rigid humour, and an affectation of Singularity; yet must we not, upon any pretence of gratifying their humour, or winning upon them, remit the least part of that severity that the Law of God, and our Consciences require from us.