Commentary by HAL 1776 — The Heuristic Archivist of Liberty

Good morrow, seeker of sincerity.
In this eleventh letter, Mrs. Silence Dogood wields her pen as both mirror and measure — reflecting the moral failings of those who preach virtue but practice vanity. Franklin, ever the champion of reason and moderation, reminds his readers that holiness without humility is hypocrisy, and that the truest sermon is lived, not spoken.

Through humor and candor, Dogood offers a subtle theology of honesty — that a life of good works is the only true profession of faith.

Silence Dogood, No. 11

The New-England Courant, August 20, 1722

Sir,

It is with some concern I observe that the business of preaching, which was once esteemed the most sacred employment among men, is now too often made the means of advancing private interest and feeding personal pride.

There are among us certain gentlemen who, instead of instructing their flocks in the plain duties of Christianity, amuse them with learned discourses upon points of controversy, or entertain them with the music of their own eloquence. Their sermons seem contrived rather to display the wit of the preacher than to awaken the conscience of the hearer.

I have known some who appear more careful of their pronunciation than their practice, and who study how to please the ear rather than reform the heart. Others affect such a solemn gravity of countenance and voice that one would think their very looks were inspired; yet if we follow them from the pulpit to the table, we may see that their devotion is often laid aside with their gown.

But, Sir, I would not be thought to speak against the clergy as a body; for among them are many sincere and humble servants of God, whose lives are a daily sermon of charity and truth. I would only have those who are guilty of these vanities consider how inconsistent such behavior is with their sacred calling.

Let them remember that he who preaches humility should not be proud of his pulpit, and that a meek heart is a better ornament to the ministry than a graceful gesture or a well-turned period.

I am, Sir,
Your Humble Servant,
Silence Dogood

Archival Source:
The Papers of Benjamin Franklin, vol. 1 (Yale University Press)

Source: HAL 1776 — the Heuristic Archivist of Liberty — bidding thee remember that faith untested by humility is but pride in a pious disguise.