John 5:39

THE TESTIMONY OF THE SCRIPTURES

‘Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of Me.’

John 5:39

There are four great fundamental principles which lie at the foundation of this great subject.

I. We receive the Bible as the Word of God, as a Divinely inspired communication from God to man.

II. We believe it to contain a vast store of most precious treasure far beyond the capacities of man, so that the most advanced and successful student has always much to learn. After years of study we are not unlike children by the seashore, delighting in the waves that are playing on the surface, but unconscious of all the wonders of its hidden depths.

III. It is God’s purpose that these wonders shall be gathered and made our own, by diligent investigation. They do not lie on the surface, but must be searched for as hidden treasure.

IV. We shall make no progress in this search without the personal teaching of the Holy Ghost.—It is His sacred office to guide us into all truth, so that without His guidance we shall not through mere intellectual efforts gain any real insight into the things of God. It is well, therefore, whenever we study Scripture, to begin with the prayer that God would throw His own light on the written Word that it may be clear to our view; and also on our own understandings, that they may be enlightened to behold its truth.

Rev. Canon Edward Hoare.

(SECOND OUTLINE)

BIBLE READING

A few thoughts on the study of Holy Scripture.

I. Study critically.—We are all possessed of judgment and reason, if not of knowledge of Greek and Hebrew.

II. Consecutive reading is good.—We do not do the Bible justice if we only read a scrap here and there.

III. Occasional reading.—Carry about a Bible with you.

IV. Didactic reading, or topical study reading, with a view to instructing yourself in some particular subject.

V. Experimental reading.—It is a great thing to read with a view to practice.

VI. Devotional reading.—We may have very many happy hours alone with God and our open Bible.

—Rev. Canon Aitken.

Illustration

‘Whatever be the particular character of our study at any given time, let us never forget the sacred character of that marvellous Book. Whether it be for practical wisdom, for devotional help, for doctrinal instruction, or for expository acquaintance with its truth, let us never forget that it is the Book of God, or lose sight of the words spoken to Moses, “Take off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground.” It is the Book of God, and therefore must not be handled like any work of man. It is the Divine revelation of the salvation of God; and therefore must be approached with the holy earnestness of those who really desire to be saved. It is the inspired exhibition of the Son of God, and whatever be the particular department of our study, our one prevailing object must be, under the teaching of the Holy Ghost, to learn all that God has been pleased to reveal of His Person, His work, and His most gracious covenant of life.’