Miscellaneous Discourses in Vol 2 of the Works by Jonathan Edwards (Available from Amazon or free here) - Read 'Christian knowledge'.
My summary
Today Edwards preaches on Hebrews 5:12 'For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are became such as nave need of milk, and not of strong meat.'
His doctrine from the text is that every Christian should make a business of endeavouring to grow in knowledge in divinity. Therefore he explores:
I. What is intended by divinity, as the object of this knowledge
II. What kind of knowledge in divinity is intended in the doctrine
III. The usefulness and necessity of the knowledge of divine truth
IV. Why all Christians should make a business of endeavouring to grow in the knowledge of divinity
V. An exhortation that all may diligently endeavour to gain Christian knowledge
VI. Directions for the acquisition of Christian knowledge
What grabbed me
I enjoyed the encouragement to read:
'Directions for the acquisition of Christian knowledge.
1. Be assiduous in reading the Holy Scriptures. This is the fountain whence all knowledge in divinity must be derived. Therefore let not this treasure lie by you neglected. Every man of common understanding who can read, may, if he please, become well acquainted with the Scriptures. And what an excellent attainment would this be!
2. Content not yourselves with only a cursory reading, without regarding the sense. This is an ill way of reading, to which, however, many accustom themselves all their days. When you read, observe what you read. Observe how things come in. Take notice of the drift of the discourse, and compare one scripture with another. For the Scripture, by the harmony of its different parts, casts great light upon itself.—We are expressly directed by Christ, to search the Scriptures, which evidently intends something more than a mere cursory reading. And use means to find out the meaning of the Scripture. When you have it explained in the preaching of the word, take notice of it; and if at any time a scripture that you did not understand be cleared up to your satisfaction, mark it, lay it up, and if possible remember it.
3. Procure, and diligently use, other books which may help you to grow in this knowledge. There are many excellent books extant, which might greatly forward you in this knowledge, and afford you a very profitable and pleasant entertainment in your leisure hours. There is doubtless a great defect in many, that through a lothness to be at a little expense, they furnish themselves with no more helps of this nature. They have a few books indeed, which now and then on sabbath-days they read; but they have had them so long, and read them so often, that they are weary of them, and it is now become a dull story, a mere task to read them.'
To gain knowledge, read, read, read. But most importantly, keep reading the book of books.
Next week's reading
Commence 'Christian charity' by reading sections I to III.
Now it's your turn
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.
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