viii. 20. _To the law and to the testimony, &.c,_
This was one of the watchwords of the Reformation, and since then it
has been a favourite text with Protestants. The noble Sixth Article
of the Church of England[1] is but an extension of it. It assumes
that there is one standard of truth, one infallible oracle, to which
in all their moral perplexities and spiritual difficulties, it is the
wisdom, if not the duty, of all men to appeal. And _we_ are persuaded
that we have this standard, this oracle, in the Bible (H. E. I. 543).
If men neglect it,--if they strive to construct a creed or direct
their conduct without it, two things are certain: 1. _They lack the
knowledge and wisdom essential to success in life._ Their neglect of
it shows that they have no light in them.[2] 2. _There await them
disappointment, disaster, and despair._ This is the teaching of the
other beautiful translation which many eminent scholars have adopted:
"To the teaching of God, and to the testimony! If they do not
according to this word, they are _a people for whom no morning
dawns_" (H. E. I. 641).
"But all who consult the Bible do not obtain from it sure guidance:
the proof of this is the difference among those who consult it, both
as to belief and practice. In support of the most absurd doctrines
and the most pernicious practices, the authority of Scripture is
claimed." True, but the error lies not in "the law," but in the men
who refer to it.[3] If the Bible is to be really helpful to us, we
must consult it _honestly_ (H. E. I. 573, 574, 4854). _Humbly_
(H. E. I. 387-389, 562-567, 587, 599). _With a constant recognition
of our help of the Holy Spirit_ (H. E. I. 622, 623, 2877-2882).
_Prayerfully_ (H. E. I. 570, 571, 598, 4856). _Diligently_ (H. E. I.
576-580; P. D. 315). _Intelligently._ (1.) In regard to the subjects
concerning which we seek instruction (H. E. I. 540-542, 558-560).
(2.) In regard to our interpretation[4] and application of its
utterances (H. E. I. 544-550, 568, 569). The man who thus uses the
Bible[5] will be cheered as he advances in life by a dawn that will
brighten and broaden into perfect day. He will be led by it to
Christ, "The Light of the world," and following Him in loving
obedience and unswerving loyalty, he will find the declaration for
ever true, "He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but
shall have the light of life."