Simple Truths Stated Simply

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D.C. · Nov 7, 1907

Simple Truths Stated Simply

At a recent religious service several presented, according to previous appointment, five texts which contained a summary of gospel truth. One of the lists read was the following:—

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life.” John 3:16.

“Wherefore also he is able to save to the uttermost them that draw near unto God through him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.” Heb. 7:25.

“I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I that live, but Christ liveth in me: and that life which I now live in the flesh I live in faith, the faith which is in the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself up for me.” Gal. 2:20.

“He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also to walk even as he walked.” 1 John 2:6.

“Let not your heart be troubled: believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and will receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:1-3.

The first text shows that the greatness of God’s love was measured by the gift of his only Son, and that through faith in him we are delivered from death and receive the gift of everlasting life.

The second text declares that the Saviour through whom we approach unto God is able to do a most complete work, since his life is devoted uninterruptedly to intercession in our behalf.

The third text shows the secret of the inner life of the believer—the indwelling Christ—and that the life of faith is to be lived here in the flesh. It also makes clear that wonderful truth that Christ gave himself for each individual, and not merely for the world in general.

The fourth text sets forth what the fruit of abiding in Christ should be,—a daily walking in his footsteps, following his example.

The fifth text presents the glorious consummation of all hope in Christ, the second advent and the home with the Saviour in the Father’s house.

What a summary of the gospel in few words!—the Father’s love, the gift of the Son, salvation through faith, an everliving Saviour constantly interceding, the indwelling Christ, walking like Christ, and the eternal home with Christ. These five texts ought to be committed to memory and frequently repeated. They contain simple truths stated simply.