~ ~ ~ ~
(
John Newton)
"From childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is
profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness--that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work!" 2 Timothy 3:15-17
Set a high value upon the Word of God. All that is necessary to make you wise to salvation is there--and there alone.
In this precious Book, you may find . . .
a
direction for every doubt,
a
solution of every difficulty, and
a
promise suited to every circumstance you can be in.
There you may be informed of your
disease caused by sin--and the
remedy provided by grace.
In the Scriptures, you may be instructed to know . . .
yourselves,
Jesus Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge,
the wonders of redeeming love,
the glories of the Redeemer's person,
the happiness of the redeemed people,
the power of faith, and
the beauty of holiness.
All are here fully and clearly represented.
Nothing is lacking in the Scriptures to make . . .
life useful and comfortable,
death safe and desirable, and
to bring down something of
Heaven upon earth.
But this true wisdom can be found nowhere else. If you wander from the Scriptures, in pursuit either of present peace, or future hope--then your search will surely end in disappointment.
This is the fountain of living waters! If you forsake it, and give the preference to broken cisterns of your own devising--then they will fail you when you most need them.
Rejoice, therefore, that such a
treasure is put into your hand--but rejoice with trembling. Remember this is not all you need--unless God likewise gives you a
heart to use the Scriptures aright--then your privilege will only aggravate your guilt and misery.
~ ~ ~ ~
