"They All Quote Bible to Prove Their Doctrines."
By E. Hilliard
WHEN any plain, Scriptural doctrine is presented that requires a change in practice, many will point us to the numerous isms extant in the land and say, "They all quote Bible to prove their doctrines." We think that the reason a great many become puzzled, and in their perplexity are often led to disregard the Bible entirely, is because of their individual lack of knowledge concerning what the Scriptures really teach. The good book teaches us that "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness," etc. 2 Tim. 3:16. True and false theories have existed in all ages of the world. The Bible has ever been the great test by which the false doctrines have been detected. If by it we could not find the genuine and detect the false, it certainly would not be a very profitable book. When any new doctrine is presented that involves a practical duty, we should not turn away from it with the flimsy excuse, "They all quote Bible to prove their doctrines." Paul and Silas met with much opposition while at Thessalonica, in preaching a crucified and risen Saviour. After they were driven from this place they went to Berea. Here they proclaimed the same doctrine. It was new to the Bereans, but they did not turn away from hearing it because it was contrary to their former religious education, or because Paul and Silas differed from the religious teachers of the day. They did that which is every individual's duty under similar circumstances. They searched the Scriptures daily to see whether these men were preaching the truth. The result was that many of them believed, and undoubtedly some of them will be rewarded with eternal life as the result of their effort to find truth. After looking into the matter, they had an individual satisfaction of knowing the truth for themselves. They were also able to give the reason of the hope within them if any man should ask them. Many false doctrines arise from the interpretation that learned men place upon the Scriptures. These men are highly esteemed among the common people for their talents and learning, and, consequently, are regarded as being right. It will not do to look to this class for Bible truth. They differ among themselves as widely as the common people. Those who were the most highly educated, and who held the highest social and religious positions, disputed with Christ face to face. Would it be strange if this class should misinterpret his sayings today? Christ very well knew that man's salvation depended on the words he uttered, so he did not speak them in such an ambiguous manner that they would require the interpretation of some LL.D. His sayings are plain and positive, and it will do to take him just as he said, and not as some one says he meant. Reader, in all doctrines in which are involved practical duties, it is very important that we examine them in the light of Scripture for ourselves. Take your Bible and search it carefully upon all Scriptural questions upon which there is a difference of opinion. Read it as though it was a communication directly from God to you. It may be that, like the Bereans, you will find some things that are Scriptural, although they may be contrary to what learned men teach, or your former religious training. E. HILLIARD.
Medford, Minn.