Basic HTML Version
A Failure to Study God’s Word
That which in the counsels of heaven the Father and the Son
deemed essential for man’s salvation is clearly presented in the Holy
Scriptures. The infinite truths of salvation are stated so plainly that
finite beings who desire to know the truth cannot fail to understand.
Divine revelations have been made for their instruction in righteous-
ness, that they may glorify God and help their fellow men.
These truths are found in the word of God—the standard by
which we are to judge between right and wrong. Obedience to this
word is the best shield for the youth against the temptations to which
they are exposed while acquiring an education. From this word
they learn how to honor God and how to be faithful to humanity,
cheerfully performing the duties and meeting the trials that each day
brings, and courageously bearing its burdens.
Christ, the Great Teacher, sought to win the minds of men from
the contemplation of earthly things, that He might teach them of
heavenly things. Had the teachers of His day been willing to be
instructed by Him, had they united with Him in sowing the world
with the seeds of truth, the world would be far different from what
it now is. Had the scribes and Pharisees joined their forces with
the Saviour, the knowledge of Christ would have restored the moral
image of God in their souls.
But the leaders of Israel turned from the fountain of true knowl-
edge. They studied the Scriptures only to sustain their traditions
[439]
and enforce their man-made observances. By their interpretation
they made them express sentiments that God had never given. Their
mystical construction made indistinct that which He had made plain.
They disputed over technicalities and practically denied the most
essential truths. God’s word was robbed of its power, and evil spirits
worked their will.
Christ’s words contain nothing that is nonessential. The Sermon
on the Mount is a wonderful production, yet so simple that a child
can study it without misunderstanding. The mount of beatitudes is a
353