READING THE HOLY SCRIPTURE
TRUTH, not eloquence, is
to be sought in reading the Holy Scriptures; and every part must be
read in the spirit in which it was written. For in the Scriptures we
ought to seek profit rather than polished diction.
Likewise we ought to read
simple and devout books as willingly as learned and profound ones. We
ought not to be swayed by the authority of the writer, whether he be a
great literary light or an insignificant person, but by the love of
simple truth. We ought not to ask who is speaking, but mark what is
said. Men pass away, but the truth of the Lord remains forever. God
speaks to us in many ways without regard for persons.
Our curiosity often
impedes our reading of the Scriptures, when we wish to understand and
mull over what we ought simply to read and pass by.
If you would profit from
it, therefore, read with humility, simplicity, and faith, and never
seek a reputation for being learned. Seek willingly and listen
attentively to the words of the saints; do not be displeased with the
sayings of the ancients, for they were not made without purpose. |
Of the reading of Holy Scriptures
It is Truth which we must look
for in Holy Writ, not cunning of words. All Scripture ought to be
read in the spirit in which it was written. We must rather seek for
what is profitable in Scripture, than for what ministereth to subtlety
in discourse. Therefore we ought to read books which are devotional
and simple, as well as those which are deep and difficult. And let
not the weight of the writer be a stumbling-block to thee, whether he
be of little or much learning, but let the love of the pure Truth draw
thee to read. Ask not, who hath said this or that, but look to what
he says.
2. Men pass away, but the truth
of the Lord endureth for ever. Without respect of persons God speaketh
to us in divers manners. Our own curiosity often hindereth us in the
reading of holy writings, when we seek to understand and discuss,
where we should pass simply on. If thou wouldst profit by thy
reading, read humbly, simply, honestly, and not desiring to win a
character for learning. Ask freely, and hear in silence the words of
holy men; nor be displeased at the hard sayings of older men than
thou, for they are not uttered without cause. |