The Bible, God’s Revelation

The Bible not only supplies the spiritual cravings of man, but it bears upon its face the unmistakable evidence of an Inspired Volume. It is made up of sixty-six books, written by half as many men, who lived at different periods of the world’s history, and in different parts of the earth. They wrote at widely different times, under different circumstances, and for different purposes. From the time the first book of the Old Testament was commenced, Until the last book of the New Testament was completed, nearly sixteen hundred years rolled by. These different authors were men of various Occupations and attainments. Among them were kings, prophets, judges, scribes, shepherds, military officers, court officials, poets, taxgatherers, college graduates, fishermen, and physicians. Some were men of polished literary attainments. while others were favored with only an ordinary education. As each man wrote, he was guided by the Holy Ghost; and so the Bible comes down to us with the Holy Spirit and God behind it. We need not offer special evidence in support of its Divine Authenticity . What it is accomplishing in the conversion of men and women, and in making the world better, to say nothing of its perfect adaptation to the needs of’ man, is ample proof of its claims as the Revealed Will of the Most High.

It has been well said: “This Book contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions are immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct YOU, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you. it is the traveler’s map, the pilgrim’s staff, the pilot’s compass, the soldier’s sword, and the Christian’s charter. Here Paradise is restored, heaven opened, and the gates of hell disclosed. Christ is its grand object, our good its design, and the glory of God its end. it should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently, and prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a Paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure. It is given you in life, will be opened in judgment, and will be remembered forever. It involves the highest responsibility, will reward the greatest labor, and will condemn all who trifle with its sacred contents.”