“those who dig little, find little.”
“don’t be quick to give up on reading this; there is Gold here, my friend.”
John 14:26
> “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.”
2 Timothy 3:16-17
> “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”
John 16:13
> “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.”
Isaiah 8:20
> “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.”
Psalm 119:11
> “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”
👇Commentary from Approved Authors
Thomas Watson, The Spirit’s Work in the Heart, in A Body of Divinity (1692)
> “The Spirit of God and the Word of God go together; the Word is the instrument, the Spirit the efficient; the Word the chariot, the Spirit the driver. He never works apart from the Scripture.”
John Flavel, The Fountain of Life, Sermon 1
> “The Spirit doth not lead men from the Word, but into the Word; and the more any man is filled with the Spirit, the more he prizeth and loveth the Scriptures. To neglect the Word upon pretence of the Spirit is to reproach the Spirit who dictated the Word.”
Richard Baxter, A Christian Directory, Part I, ch. 6
> “Take heed of separating what God hath joined: the Spirit and the Word. Many pretend to have the Spirit, and yet neglect the Scriptures; but it is the Spirit in the Word, and the Word through the Spirit, that sanctifieth. They that despise the written rule do but follow their own fancies under the name of inspirations.”
Thomas Manton, Sermons on the 119th Psalm, Sermon 11
> “The Word is the seed of the Spirit, and the Spirit is the quickener of the Word; where the Word is not regarded, there the Spirit is grieved and withdraweth. If men cry up the Spirit, and yet slight the Scriptures, they have not that Spirit which sanctified the prophets.”
John Bunyan, Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners (§ 68–70)
> “I found that the Holy Ghost never gave me comfort, save as he opened the Scriptures to me… I saw the danger of those that would leave the Word, and follow inward whispers; for that way lies delusion and the snare of Satan.”
J.C. Ryle, Expository Thoughts on John, Vol. 3, on John 14:26
> “Let us beware of the delusion that the teaching of the Spirit renders the written Word unnecessary. The same Spirit who inspired the Word uses the Word for all His teaching. To despise Scripture under plea of honouring the Spirit is to dishonour both.”
William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour, Part II, ch. 5
> “The Spirit never acts contrary to his own Word. If any motion within thee draws thee from the written rule, suspect it as a temptation. The Word is the sword he useth; to cast it aside is to fight without his weapon.”
Thomas Goodwin, The Work of the Holy Ghost in Our Salvation, Book I, ch. 3
> “The Spirit’s illumination is ministered by the Word; he works not by fancy or private revelation, but by bringing the mind to see the glory of God in the glass of Scripture. Where the Word is laid aside, there the Spirit withdraws.”
Jonathan Edwards, Religious Affections, Part III, § 4
> “The Spirit of God is given to make the written Word effectual; and those affections which arise without light from the Word are not of God, but of self. A strong zeal for supposed Spirit without esteem of Scripture is a sure sign of delusion.”
George Whitefield, Sermon 9: The Spirit Convincing the World of Sin
> “The Holy Ghost worketh by the Word; and they who despise the Word under colour of the Spirit are no better than enthusiasts. The Scriptures are his sword; and he that would honour the Spirit must honour that sword.”
Thomas Goodwin, The Object and Acts of Justifying Faith, ch. 4
> “Faith’s act is terminated on the Word, and the Spirit’s act is to persuade the heart of that Word; where one is exalted above the other, both are abused.”
Robert Murray M’Cheyne, Sermons and Lectures, Sermon on John 16:13
> “When the Spirit guides into all truth, He opens the Scriptures to the soul. Beware of those movements which lead you from the Bible; they are not of the Comforter, but of the deceiver.”
Hugh Latimer, Sermon on the Plough (1548)
> “Where the plough of God’s Word goeth not forward, there the Spirit worketh not. They that leave the Scripture, and yet pretend to the Spirit, are as those that plough without oxen: much noise, but no harvest.”
Dwight L. Moody, Secret Power, ch. 1
> “The Word of God is the sword of the Spirit. A man full of the Spirit will be full of the Word. If we neglect the Bible while talking of the Spirit’s power, we quench that very power.”
Sir Robert Anderson, The Silence of God, ch. 5
> “The Spirit’s voice is in the Scriptures; and when men profess to hear Him apart from that written Word, they drift into mysticism and error. The written revelation is the abiding testimony of the Spirit.”
👉Acts 17:11
> “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”
👇Commentary from Approved Authors
Matthew Henry, Commentary on Acts 17:11
> “They were willing to hear reason, and not prejudiced… The more they examined, the more they were confirmed; and therefore many of them believed. Note, diligent search into the Word of God is the best way to prevent being imposed upon by false doctrine. The Spirit convinces, but by the Word; and they who neglect the Word under pretence of the Spirit do not know what manner of spirit they are of.”
Thomas Watson, The Godly Man’s Picture, ch. 8
> “A godly man is a man of the Book. He is not carried away with dreams and revelations, but binds all to the written Word. As those noble Bereans, he searcheth the Scriptures daily. He knows the Spirit speaks in them, and therefore lives by them.”
John Flavel, The Touchstone of Sincerity, ch. 3
> “Let a man pretend what motions or influences he will, if he refuses to bring them to the Scriptures, and examine them thereby, he is self-deceived. The Bereans are commended because they searched the Word. The Holy Spirit doth not disdain this trial, for it is His own light.”
Richard Baxter, The Reformed Pastor, Part II
> “Try the spirits, saith the apostle, and how shall we try them but by the Scriptures? Those that will not be tried by them betray themselves. The Bereans searched the Scriptures; those are the best hearers whom the Spirit maketh diligent searchers.”
John Bunyan, The Strait Gate, §14
> “God’s Word is the test; if a man bring not Scripture for what he saith, we are not bound to believe him. The Bereans are an example, for they would not take even Paul without the Word. All Spirit that goeth not with Scripture is suspect.”
J.C. Ryle, Practical Religion, ch. 2, “Bible Reading”
> “The Spirit guides no man into truth who does not study the Bible. To expect the inward teaching of the Spirit apart from the written Word is not spiritual humility, but spiritual presumption. The Bereans were spiritual because they searched.”
William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour, Part III, ch. 9
> “Try all doctrines by the touchstone of Scripture. The Bereans are a pattern to us: they had the Spirit, and yet they searched the Scriptures daily. They did not think themselves above the Word, though the Spirit wrought in them.”
Thomas Goodwin, The Work of the Holy Ghost, Book II, ch. 2
> “The Bereans received the Spirit’s inward witness in harmony with the Scriptures. No operation of the Spirit is genuine that draweth men away from daily communion with the Word.”
Jonathan Edwards, Distinguishing Marks of a Work of the Spirit of God
> “When the Spirit is truly at work, it leads persons to the Word, and to diligent searching of it. The Bereans had the Spirit of God, and yet they searched daily. A pretended Spirit that draws from Scripture is counterfeit.”
George Whitefield, Sermon: The Indwelling of the Spirit
> “The Bereans searched the Scriptures daily; and if the Spirit had been contrary to the Word, would not Paul have corrected them? But he praises them. This shows us that the Spirit’s voice is clearest when reading the Word.”
Hugh Latimer, Sermons on the Word
> “The Bereans read daily: here is your Spirit indeed. Would you know whether it is the Holy Ghost that speaketh in you? Try it by the Scripture, as they did. Else you may have a spirit, but not the Holy Spirit.”
Dwight L. Moody, How to Study the Bible, ch. 1
> “Paul was full of the Spirit, yet he praised those who searched the Scriptures. That tells us something. It is not spiritual to neglect the Bible—it is spiritual to dig in it, even while seeking the Spirit’s power.”
Sir Robert Anderson, The Bible or the Church?, ch. 4
> “The nobility of the Bereans lay in their reverence for Scripture. Apostolic power did not sway them apart from the Word. That is the true work of the Spirit: to honour the Word He inspired.”
👉 1 John 2:27 (KJV)
> “But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.”
TSK Cross-References for 1 John 2:27
Jeremiah 31:33–34
> “But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts…
And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour… for they shall all know me…”
John 14:26
> “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost… he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.”
1 Corinthians 2:12–13
> “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.”
Hebrews 8:10–11
> “I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts… And they shall not teach every man his neighbour… for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest.”
Isaiah 54:13
> “And all thy children shall be taught of the LORD; and great shall be the peace of thy children.”
—👇Commentary from Approved Authors
Matthew Henry, Commentary on 1 John 2:27
> “The apostle doth not intend to throw off all ministry and ministerial teaching, for that were to contradict other Scripture… But he speaks against false teachers who claim an authority apart from Christ. The Holy Ghost teaches inwardly, but He doth it by the Word; He opens the Scriptures to us. That unction teacheth truth, not novelty; it leads into all truth already revealed in the Word. When men pretend new lights which the Word knows not, it is a sign the Spirit teacheth them not.”
—
Thomas Watson, A Body of Divinity, under “The Scriptures”
> “The Spirit is our teacher, but he teacheth in the school of the Word. That is the primer he useth. When men say they are taught of the Spirit, and yet despise the written Word, they prove they are led by a lying spirit. The Holy Ghost doth not work by enthusiasm, but by holy writ. His teaching is harmonious with Scripture, never against it.”
—
John Flavel, The Method of Grace, Sermon 6
> “The Spirit’s anointing is not to supersede the ministry of the Word, but to make it effectual… Those who boast of inward teaching, and yet forsake the Bible and the Church’s instruction, are deluded. The Spirit never draws men from Scripture but into it. He seals what the Word saith. If the Word be not your light, the Spirit is not your guide.”
—
Thomas Goodwin, The Work of the Holy Ghost in Our Salvation, Book II, ch. 5
> “This anointing teacheth all things necessary to salvation—but by what means? By bringing the Word home to the heart, and by giving light in the understanding to behold it. The Spirit teacheth effectually what the Scripture teacheth outwardly. The written Word is the matter; the Spirit the interpreter. Separate them, and you fall into error.”
—
Richard Baxter, The Saints’ Everlasting Rest, Part I, ch. 2
> “Let not men think themselves spiritual because they scorn teachers and rest upon some inward illumination. This is not the Spirit of Christ but of pride. The Holy Ghost dwelleth with the humble, and his teaching confirmeth the Scriptures, not contradicts them. They who have the anointing prize the Word more, not less.”
—
John Bunyan, Some Gospel Truths Opened, § 6
> “To say we need no teachers because we have the Spirit, is to make void the Word and ministry which the Spirit hath appointed. The Spirit and the Scriptures are never divided in the work of salvation. The anointing teaches, but it teacheth what Christ and his apostles have already spoken in the Book.”
—
J.C. Ryle, Old Paths, ch. 1 “Inspiration”
> “Let it be clearly understood, the Holy Ghost never teaches a soul without the instrumentality of the Bible. All pretensions to illumination which set aside the written Word are dangerous delusions. The anointing teacheth nothing contrary to the Book. No man has the Spirit who doth not reverence the Scriptures.”
—
William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour, Part I, ch. 2
> “The Spirit never teacheth apart from the Word. His office is not to bring new truths, but to cause us to understand what is written. Take heed of those who pretend to be taught of the Spirit, and yet know not the Scriptures. Their unction is a counterfeit.”
—
Jonathan Edwards, Religious Affections, Part III, § 5
> “A gracious influence of the Spirit always makes men love the Word. Those who imagine they have divine teachings and revelations apart from the Bible are mistaken. God’s Spirit doth not set up new oracles, but confirms the old. True anointing leads to more Scripture knowledge.”
—
George Whitefield, Sermons, vol. 1, Sermon 14
> “The Holy Spirit’s teaching never leads away from the Bible. This unction that teacheth all things is consistent with study of the Word, and makes it lively to the soul. Beware of fancied inspirations that undervalue Scripture.”
—
Hugh Latimer, Second Sermon before King Edward VI
> “You shall not be taught of the Holy Ghost, if ye neglect the Book. The anointing that teacheth all things worketh by the Word. It is the devil’s doctrine to separate the Spirit from the Bible, and to pretend visions apart from God’s written will.”
—
Dwight L. Moody, Secret Power, ch. 3
> “The anointing of the Spirit does not make a man despise the Bible; it makes him thirst after it. All teaching of the Spirit agrees with Scripture. If you hear a voice or follow a leading that contradicts the Word, it is not of God.”
—
Sir Robert Anderson, The Silence of God, ch. 8
> “The Holy Spirit teaches the believer, but He teaches nothing new. He opens the Scriptures, He quickens what is already written. All true spiritual instruction flows from the inspired Word. Anointing never contradicts revelation.”
👉 Scripture — Colossians 3:16
> “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”
Deuteronomy 6:6–9
> “And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children… and write them upon the posts of thy house…”
Joshua 1:8
> “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night…”
Psalm 119:11
> “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”
John 15:7
> “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.”
Ephesians 5:19
> “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.”
👇Commentary from Approved Authors
Matthew Henry, Commentary on Colossians 3:16
> “By the word of Christ, understand either the doctrine of the gospel, or the holy Scriptures. Let it dwell in you, not just pass through, but have a constant residence. Richly, not poorly or scantily. In all wisdom, meaning with deep spiritual discernment. They who would enjoy the Spirit must let the Word of Christ dwell in them; where the Word is neglected, the Spirit is grieved.”
> “The word of Christ must dwell in us, or else the Spirit cannot work. It is His chosen instrument; those who boast the Spirit but abandon the Word are building without a foundation.”
—
Thomas Watson, The Christian on the Mount, ch. 2
> “The Word must not dwell in the head only, but in the heart; it must dwell richly, not as a guest but as a master. The more the Word abides, the more the Spirit operates. Take away the Word, and the Spirit hath nothing to work with. The Word is His sword. If you will be filled with the Spirit, be filled with Scripture.”
—
John Flavel, The Fountain of Life, Sermon 18
> “The indwelling of the Word is the seat of sanctification. The Spirit applies the Word to the heart; without it, there can be no growth in grace. Those who look for operations of the Spirit without dwelling in the Scriptures tempt the Lord and delude themselves.”
—
Richard Baxter, A Christian Directory, Part I, ch. 3
> “Let the Word dwell in you richly, and you shall not lack the Spirit. For He who gave the Word dwelleth where it is honoured. The Word is the charter of the Spirit’s work. He sanctifieth by truth, not by fancy. Therefore, those who slight Scripture slight the Spirit.”
—
John Bunyan, The Fear of God, §11
> “Let the Word be thy companion, thy counsellor. For it is the instrument of the Spirit. None ever grew in grace who grew not in Scripture. The Word richly received bringeth the presence of the Spirit; but where it is neglected, the Spirit is silent.”
—
J.C. Ryle, Old Paths, ch. 2 “Read the Bible”
> “Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly: that is the condition of spiritual life and power. The Holy Spirit never blesses a heart that turns from Scripture. The two are joined by God and cannot be divided without spiritual decay.”
—
William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour, Part II, ch. 10
> “The Word is to dwell richly, not slightly; for the Spirit useth it as His treasury. It is the armory whence faith draws her shield, and hope her anchor. A Word-filled soul is a Spirit-filled soul. But those who profess the Spirit and neglect the Word are under strong delusion.”
—
Thomas Goodwin, The Object and Acts of Justifying Faith, Book II, ch. 2
> “The indwelling of the Word is a sign of the Spirit’s presence. The Spirit worketh not where the Word is a stranger. Let it dwell richly, for from it the Spirit draweth out divine comforts, light, and grace. He dwelleth in no heart where the Word hath no root.”
—
Jonathan Edwards, Religious Affections, Part III, § 6
> “The dwelling of the Word is the great means of promoting true affections. Without the Word, the Spirit teacheth not. A strong feeling without strong Scripture is likely carnal. The Spirit sanctifies through truth—that truth being the Word received richly in the heart.”
—
George Whitefield, Sermon: The Marks of a True Conversion
> “If you are filled with the Word, the Spirit will fill your heart. The two go together. O what a blessed thing it is to have the Word of Christ richly in us! It will keep you in the Spirit and prevent your heart from being lifted up in pride or misled by deceiving spirits.”
—
Hugh Latimer, Sermons on the Commandments
> “Let the Word dwell, saith St. Paul; not flutter, not visit, but dwell. Then shall ye be taught of the Lord, for the Spirit teacheth them that treasure the Word. If you let the Word go, think not that the Spirit will abide with you.”
—
Dwight L. Moody, Pleasure and Profit in Bible Study, ch. 2
> “The more richly the Word dwells in a man, the more powerfully the Spirit uses him. No Word—no Spirit. The Spirit makes the Word living, but never bypasses it. People who say they have the Spirit but ignore the Bible deceive themselves.”
—
Sir Robert Anderson, The Bible and Modern Criticism, ch. 6
> “Spiritual health depends on the richness of the indwelling Word. The Spirit does not thrive in a heart empty of Scripture. Beware of a supposed Spirit that has no reverence for the written Word. That is not the Comforter but a deceiver.”
👉Scripture — 1 Corinthians 2:12–13 (KJV)
> “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.” (1 Corinthians 2:12–13)
—
II. Treasury of Scripture Knowledge (TSK) Cross-References
John 14:26
> “The Comforter… shall teach you all things… whatsoever I have said unto you.”
1 John 2:20, 27
> “But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things…”
Isaiah 54:13
> “All thy children shall be taught of the LORD…”
Jeremiah 31:33–34
> “I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts…”
Romans 8:15–16
> “Ye have received the Spirit of adoption… The Spirit itself beareth witness…”
1 Thessalonians 2:13
> “Ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God…”
—
Commentary from Approved Authors on 1 Corinthians 2:12–13
—
Matthew Henry, Commentary on 1 Corinthians 2:12–13
> “The gospel is a revelation of the Spirit, and must be received by spiritual illumination. Yet note, the Spirit uses words—not man’s wisdom, but divinely appointed expressions. The things of God are made known by the Spirit in the words of Scripture. Those who forsake the written Word under claim of Spirit revelation go beyond the Spirit Himself.”
> “Comparing spiritual things with spiritual—interpreting the things of God by the words of God. Here is the Spirit’s own method. Any supposed teaching of the Spirit that disdains the form of sound words is to be rejected.”
—
Thomas Watson, The Doctrine of the Word, in A Body of Divinity
> “The Spirit teacheth, not apart from the Word, but by the Word. The inward illumination is not contrary to the outward revelation. Where the Bible is absent, the Spirit’s voice is silent. Where the Word is esteemed lightly, the Spirit is grieved. The things freely given are made known in Scripture and confirmed in the heart by the Spirit.”
—
John Flavel, The Method of Grace, Sermon 12
> “To compare spiritual things with spiritual is the very office of the Spirit in the soul. He takes of Christ and shows it to us, but not by dreams or inward impulses apart from the Word. The Word is His chosen vessel; through it He works, and without it He will not bless.”
> “The knowledge of divine things comes by the Spirit, but that Spirit employs the Word. Men are mistaken who look for divine teaching while neglecting the Bible.”
—
Thomas Goodwin, The Work of the Holy Ghost in Our Salvation, Book II, ch. 4
> “The Spirit giveth knowledge of spiritual things by spiritual means: namely, the Scriptures. The words which the Spirit teacheth are those He once inspired. He teacheth no other. If any man receive revelations outside the Word, he must suspect them. For the Spirit of truth contradicts not Himself.”
—
Richard Baxter, The Reformed Pastor, Part I
> “The Spirit teacheth not in enthusiasm, but in truth—that is, by the Word. To expect Him to speak apart from the Scripture is to tempt God and open the door to all manner of heresy. He illuminates Scripture, not bypasses it.”
—
John Bunyan, The Heavenly Footman, §9
> “The Holy Ghost teacheth, but He teacheth in the words of God. To speak spiritual things in spiritual words is His office. And how shall we know those spiritual words but by the Scriptures? Take away the Word, and you have no touchstone to discern the Spirit.”
—
J.C. Ryle, Old Paths, ch. 1 “Inspiration”
> “All true spiritual knowledge is taught by the Holy Ghost—but through the Bible. No man is spiritually taught who lightly esteems the Word. The Spirit teacheth through the very words He first gave. Let no one expect divine light while he neglects the Book.”
—
William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour, Part III, ch. 6
> “The Spirit speaks in spiritual words. He writes not new gospels on the heart, but explains the old. The Scripture is His pen, His voice, His instrument. To look for spiritual things without spiritual words is madness. The Spirit and the Word are joined as root and fruit.”
—
Thomas Manton, Sermons on 2 Thessalonians 2:13
> “God chose us to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth; both are joined. The Spirit doth not work apart from the truth, but with it and by it. The things freely given are revealed in Scripture and sealed by the Spirit.”
—
Jonathan Edwards, Religious Affections, Part III, §7
> “The Spirit of God makes men wise unto salvation not by new revelations, but by enabling them to understand the Scriptures. All real illumination is by the Bible. If men pretend spiritual insight while disregarding the Word, they are self-deceived.”
—
George Whitefield, Sermon: Walking with God
> “The Spirit teacheth, but in the very words of the Bible. All else is man’s wisdom. The Spirit will never contradict the Scriptures. If any man say he is led of the Spirit, let him show it by love for the Word. Those who leave the Word behind are not Spirit-led.”
—
Hugh Latimer, Sermon of the Plough
> “The Holy Ghost hath his plough, and that is the Word. He teacheth not by noise, nor dreams, nor voices, but by the Word of God written. The Spirit and the Word go yoked together. Break that yoke, and you have no true teacher.”
—
Dwight L. Moody, Secret Power, ch. 4
> “What does the Holy Ghost use? The Bible! That is the instrument. The things of God are taught in the words of God. If a man says the Spirit teaches him something contrary to Scripture, he is mistaken. The Holy Ghost teaches in harmony with the Word.”
—
Sir Robert Anderson, The Silence of God, ch. 7
> “The spiritual man speaks spiritual truths in spiritual language, and that language is the Scripture. The Spirit teacheth by no other. The rejection of the written Word is the rejection of the Spirit Himself.”
👉 Scripture — Psalm 119:11 (KJV)
> “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”
—
Treasury of Scripture Knowledge (TSK) Cross-References
Deuteronomy 6:6–9
> “And these words… shall be in thine heart… thou shalt teach them diligently… write them upon the posts of thy house…”
Job 23:12
> “I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.”
Proverbs 2:1
> “My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee…”
Proverbs 7:1–3
> “My son, keep my words… bind them upon thy fingers, write them upon the table of thine heart.”
Colossians 3:16
> “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly…”
John 15:3
> “Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.”
—
👇Commentary from Approved Authors on Psalm 119:11
—
Matthew Henry, Commentary on Psalm 119:11
> “God’s word must be laid up in our hearts, that our thoughts and affections may be daily exercised upon it. It must be hidden there, as a treasure, to be preserved safe and entire. It is not enough to have the Bible in our hands or on our shelves, it must be in our hearts. There it will be a principle of grace, and a guard against sin.”
> “The Spirit makes the Word effectual—but only when it is within. If we neglect to hide it in the heart, we cannot expect the Spirit to preserve us from sin. The Spirit guards where the Word is guarded.”
—
Thomas Watson, The Godly Man’s Picture, ch. 9
> “The godly man hides the Word in his heart, not in his cupboard. It is a sacred deposit, to be laid up as a treasure. The Spirit useth it to arm the soul against temptation. A man who hath the Word within is never far from his spiritual sword. If you would not sin, store Scripture.”
—
John Flavel, Keeping the Heart, ch. 3
> “Where the Word is hid in the heart, the Spirit hath a magazine to draw from. Conscience is awakened, affections are stirred, and temptations are resisted. The more Scripture is within, the more the Spirit doth assist. He brings all things to remembrance—but only if they were first known.”
—
Thomas Goodwin, The Work of the Holy Ghost, Book III, ch. 5
> “The Word hid in the heart is the Spirit’s treasury. He bringeth nothing to mind but what was first received. Therefore, neglect not to gather and hide the Word, for the Spirit will call for it in the hour of need. The Word sanctifies by the Spirit, and the Spirit worketh by the Word.”
—
Richard Baxter, A Christian Directory, Part I, ch. 6
> “Let the Word be your storehouse, and the Spirit will be your keeper. He will guard you from sin by reminding you of the precepts and promises within. If your heart be empty of the Word, think not that the Spirit will preserve you. His work is by truth, not instinct.”
—
John Bunyan, The Pilgrim’s Progress, Part I, Scene: Christian with Apollyon
> “Then did Christian draw for his sword… ‘It is written!’ The Word hidden in the heart was his weapon, and the Spirit helped his arm. He had the Word not only in his hand, but in his soul.”
—
J.C. Ryle, Thoughts for Young Men, ch. 2
> “Store your heart with the Bible. Read it, learn it, treasure it. The Holy Ghost sanctifies no man who cares not for the Scriptures. The Word in the heart is the Spirit’s means of keeping you from sin. If it be not there, how shall He remind you?”
—
William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour, Part I, ch. 6
> “The Christian’s armour is the Word, and the Word must be hid in the heart. The Spirit fastens it there, but it must be there to fasten. Lay up truth, and the Spirit will draw it forth in battle. But he that hath no store shall have no supply.”
—
Thomas Manton, Sermons on Psalm 119, Sermon 14
> “Hiding the Word is not memorizing only, but esteeming, loving, and conforming to it. Then it is in the heart. The Spirit keeps it active there, and when temptation comes, He brings forth that which is hidden. Where there is no treasure, there is no relief.”
—
Jonathan Edwards, Religious Affections, Part III, §8
> “Those affections which are rooted in the Word are most spiritual. The Spirit doth not work by empty emotion, but by Scripture impressed upon the soul. The more the Word is hid, the more room the Spirit hath to work.”
—
George Whitefield, Sermon: Walking with God
> “Hide the Word in your hearts, and the Spirit will bring it forth in your walk. It will be as a lamp, a sword, a comfort. The man without Scripture in his heart is defenseless. He may talk of the Spirit, but hath no companion in the fight.”
—
Hugh Latimer, Sermon on the Card
> “Let every man keep God’s Word as his chief card. Play it in time of temptation. But how shall he play it if he keep it not? The Spirit helpeth, but the Word must be hid. Else He hath nothing to use.”
—
Dwight L. Moody, Pleasure and Profit in Bible Study, ch. 4
> “I never saw a Spirit-filled man who did not love the Bible. Hide it in your heart, and the Spirit will give power. Leave it out, and you’ll have no strength in time of temptation. The Word is the Spirit’s weapon.”
—
Sir Robert Anderson, The Bible and Modern Criticism, ch. 7
> “The hidden Word is the protection of the soul. The Holy Spirit guards with what is stored. If Scripture be neglected, the Spirit is hindered. He speaks what was first written.”
👉 Scripture — Joshua 1:8 (KJV)
> “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.”
—
Treasury of Scripture Knowledge (TSK) Cross-References
Deuteronomy 6:6–9
> “And these words… shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently… and shalt talk of them… and write them…”
Psalm 1:2–3
> “But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night…”
Psalm 119:97
> “O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day.”
Proverbs 4:20–22
> “My son, attend to my words… Let them not depart from thine eyes…”
2 Timothy 3:16–17
> “All scripture is given by inspiration of God… That the man of God may be perfect…”
—
👇 Commentary from Approved Authors on Joshua 1:8
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Matthew Henry, Commentary on Joshua 1:8
> “Joshua must make the book of the law his rule. He must read it, meditate on it, and regulate his conduct by it. Thus the Spirit would guide him. The prosperity of the soul depends not on inward voices or impulses, but on diligent regard to the written Word. The Spirit prospers no man who forsakes the law of God.”
—
Thomas Watson, The Godly Man’s Picture, ch. 7
> “A godly man meditates on the Word day and night. He is not content with a morning glance or a Sabbath reading. Meditation is the digestion of truth. The Spirit doth not feed idle souls. He meets the meditating soul with light and strength. To neglect the Word is to starve the Spirit’s work.”
—
John Flavel, The Method of Grace, Sermon 10
> “Meditation fills the soul with spiritual savour. It is the Spirit’s banquet. Joshua was promised success not by visions, but by meditation. The Spirit makes the meditated Word effectual. A man who will not meditate on Scripture shall not prosper spiritually, though he boast the Spirit daily.”
—
Thomas Goodwin, The Object and Acts of Justifying Faith, Book I, ch. 5
> “The Word is the ground of faith, and meditation the stirring of it. Joshua was bid to meditate, and the Spirit should bless. The inward Teacher meets the mind in the Word, not outside it. For where the Word is laid aside, the Spirit is uninvited.”
—
Richard Baxter, A Christian Directory, Part I, ch. 4
> “The soul must be fixed on the Word. Meditation is the Spirit’s forge, where holy affections are kindled. The Spirit blesseth the Word to the heart—but only to the heart that labours in the Word. A negligent hearer cannot be a Spirit-filled man.”
—
John Bunyan, Come and Welcome to Jesus Christ, § 25
> “Christians must not part with the Word, no not for all the feelings in the world. Joshua was taught not to look for voices from heaven, but to keep the book ever before him. This is the Spirit’s method—He honours the Word, not bypasses it.”
—
J.C. Ryle, Old Paths, ch. 2 “Read the Bible”
> “It is idle to talk of the Spirit’s teaching while you neglect your Bible. Joshua was told plainly where prosperity lies—in meditation on the book. The Spirit blesses no lazy student of Scripture. The Word and the Spirit are married—let no man put them asunder.”
—
William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour, Part III, ch. 5
> “Let the Word be thy meditation day and night. The Spirit dwelleth with such. Joshua had no success promised him apart from the Word. The Spirit works not with the man who despiseth the book. It is His sword, His lamp, His staff.”
—
Thomas Manton, Sermons on Psalm 119, Sermon 101
> “Joshua must meditate day and night. The Spirit speaks not to the careless. Meditation is the soul’s commerce with the Word. If the Word be gone from the eyes, the Spirit’s influence will be gone from the heart.”
—
Jonathan Edwards, Religious Affections, Part III, §9
> “Affections stirred by the Spirit arise chiefly from Scripture well meditated. It is no spiritual affection that groweth where Scripture is forgotten. Meditation is the channel through which the Spirit communicates grace. Joshua prospered not by feelings, but by Scripture use.”
—
George Whitefield, Sermon: Walking with God
> “Joshua must walk with God by walking in the book. The Spirit does not meet the man who leaves the Bible closed. Many talk of being Spirit-led who will not read, meditate, nor obey the Word. They deceive themselves.”
—
Hugh Latimer, Sermons on the Word
> “What was Joshua told? To look to the book! That is where the Spirit would bless him. We must read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest. The Holy Ghost teacheth none who scorneth the Scriptures.”
—
Dwight L. Moody, Pleasure and Profit in Bible Study, ch. 1
> “If you want success in your Christian life, do as Joshua did—meditate on the Bible. The Spirit never prospers a man who doesn’t read it. Feelings and impulses are no substitute. God gave us a book, and He means us to use it.”
—
Sir Robert Anderson, The Bible or the Church?, ch. 7
> “Joshua was taught that spiritual prosperity comes not by ceremonies, but by the written Word. The Spirit’s guidance is through that Word. All who substitute spiritual ‘leadings’ for Scripture are in danger of self-deceit.”
—
👉 Scripture — 1 Thessalonians 2:13 (KJV)
> “For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.”
—
Treasury of Scripture Knowledge (TSK) Cross-References
Acts 17:11
> “They… received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily…”
1 Thessalonians 1:5–6
> “Our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost…”
Hebrews 4:12
> “For the word of God is quick, and powerful… and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”
Isaiah 55:11
> “So shall my word be… it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please…”
Romans 1:16
> “The gospel of Christ… is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth…”
—
👇 Approved Commentary on 1 Thessalonians 2:13
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Matthew Henry, Commentary on 1 Thessalonians 2:13
> “They received the word aright when they did not look upon it as the word of men, but as the Word of God. This is the great commendation of their faith, and the reason it wrought effectually in them. The Spirit attends the Word when it is received as divine. But if men think lightly of the Word, the Spirit departs. It is not the preacher, but the divine truth, that works sanctification.”
—
Thomas Watson, A Body of Divinity, ch. 2 “The Scriptures”
> “The Word is the Word of God, not of man. If we would see the Spirit work mightily, we must esteem the Word highly. They who look upon Scripture as mere words of men quench the Spirit. But where it is received as God’s voice, it works powerfully to conversion and comfort.”
—
John Flavel, The Method of Grace, Sermon 9
> “When the Word is received as God’s Word, the Spirit seals it upon the heart. It enters with majesty and operates with divine efficacy. But if men sit under the Word as critics, or hear it as the speech of men, the Spirit withholds His power. Reverence for Scripture is essential to its effectual working.”
—
Thomas Goodwin, The Work of the Holy Ghost, Book II, ch. 8
> “The Word works effectually where it is received by faith, and not as man’s speech. The Spirit owneth such reception and makes the truth fruitful. All operation of the Spirit is through this channel. He magnifies not human eloquence, but divine authority. Where the Word is slighted, the Spirit is grieved.”
—
Richard Baxter, A Call to the Unconverted, Preface
> “I speak not to you as from myself, but as from the Lord. His Word is His instrument. And oh that you would receive it not as from a poor worm, but as the voice of your Creator! Then the Spirit would fasten it to your hearts. Where this is wanting, sermons are lost and souls remain unchanged.”
—
John Bunyan, The Acceptable Sacrifice, §17
> “It is not the preacher’s words, but God’s Word that saves. When it is received as such, the Spirit works. But if men receive the Word with coldness, or as a mere lecture, they stop the ears of their soul. The Holy Ghost goeth not with such hearers.”
—
J.C. Ryle, Old Paths, ch. 1 “Inspiration”
> “The Bible is God’s Word, not man’s. Let us ever remember this when we read or hear it. The Thessalonians were praised for this very thing. The Spirit will never effectually work where Scripture is viewed lightly. It is His own Word, and He honours it.”
—
William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour, Part II, ch. 3
> “When the soul receives the Word as from God, it trembles, it believes, it obeys. Then the Spirit works mightily. But to slight the Word is to quench the Spirit. You shall find no gracious effect where reverence for Scripture is absent.”
—
Thomas Manton, Sermons on James 1:21
> “The Word is to be received with meekness, not with prejudice. When men honour it as divine, then the Spirit blesses it. Otherwise, it is but a sounding brass. The Thessalonians esteemed the Word as God’s, and so were sanctified through it.”
—
Jonathan Edwards, Religious Affections, Part III, §10
> “A high esteem for God’s Word is a mark of grace. The Spirit sanctifies through it when it is received in faith, not as the word of men. That which men despise, they cannot profit from. The Spirit honours the Word where it is honoured.”
—
George Whitefield, Sermon: The Power of the Word
> “I have seen the Word fall like thunder where it was received as God’s Word. The Spirit then comes with fire and melts the heart. But I have also seen hearers mock, and the Spirit do no work among them. Reverence for Scripture draws down divine power.”
—
Hugh Latimer, Second Sermon before Edward VI
> “They received the Word not as man’s speech, but as God’s truth. There lies the blessing. A sermon is but wind where the Spirit doth not apply it—and the Spirit applies it where it is honoured. Where the Word is scorned, expect no Spirit.”
—
Dwight L. Moody, Pleasure and Profit in Bible Study, ch. 2
> “The Bible works when we treat it as God’s Word. The Spirit rides upon it like the wind upon the sea. But if we treat it as mere ink and paper, we grieve the Spirit. That’s why some churches are powerless—the Word is not honoured.”
—
Sir Robert Anderson, The Bible or the Church?, ch. 5
> “The Thessalonians believed the Word was divine, and so the Spirit wrought mightily. Wherever men demote Scripture to a human level, the Spirit is absent. He blesses His own voice, not man’s philosophy.”
👉 Scripture — Hebrews 4:12
> “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”
—
Treasury of Scripture Knowledge (TSK) Cross-References
Isaiah 49:2
> “And he hath made my mouth like a sharp sword…”
Ephesians 6:17
> “And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God…”
Jeremiah 23:29
> “Is not my word like as a fire? saith the LORD; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces?”
2 Corinthians 10:4–5
> “(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God…)”
Revelation 1:16
> “Out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword…”
—
👇Long-form Commentary on Hebrews 4:12
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Matthew Henry, Commentary on Hebrews 4:12
> “The Word of God is a powerful instrument. It is a living Word, not a dead letter, and works with divine authority. It can pierce into the innermost secrets of the soul, and discern the heart. It is the Spirit’s instrument; the sword of the Spirit. No other weapon can touch the conscience like this. If men neglect this Word, they put away the very means the Spirit useth to convert and sanctify. It is not the preacher’s skill, but the Spirit’s edge in the Word that pierceth.”
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Thomas Watson, The Christian Soldier, in The Beatitudes, Sermon 17
> “The Word is called a sword for its sharpness and piercing virtue. It strikes at the heart. The Spirit never works without it. They who pretend to be led of the Spirit, yet neglect the Bible, have a counterfeit Spirit. The true Spirit draws blood by the sword of the Word.”
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John Flavel, The Fountain of Life, Sermon 20
> “No power on earth can reach the soul, but the Word in the hand of the Spirit can. It pierces where reason, eloquence, and threats cannot. It lays open the heart. Therefore it must not be put aside. They that claim the Spirit but forsake the Word remove the Spirit’s sword, and shall be left to vain imaginations.”
—
Thomas Goodwin, The Work of the Holy Ghost, Book III, ch. 3
> “It is the Spirit that makes the Word quick and powerful. The letter without the Spirit killeth, but with the Spirit it awakens, divides, and discerns. The Word is dead without the Spirit, and the Spirit never operates apart from the Word. To cry for the Spirit and neglect the Word is spiritual folly.”
—
Richard Baxter, A Christian Directory, Part I, ch. 6
> “The Word cuts when the Spirit draws it. Without the Spirit, it is but paper and ink. Without the Word, the Spirit hath no sword. It is the Spirit’s ordained weapon. If men lay aside the Bible, let them not talk of the Spirit, for they have unarmed Him.”
—
John Bunyan, The Holy War, Scene: Diabolus vs. Emmanuel
> “The Word came like a two-edged sword, and the town trembled. Conscience awakened, secrets discovered, strongholds cast down. Such is the work of the Spirit by the Word. None can stand against it. But where the Word is gone, the Spirit acts not.”
—
J.C. Ryle, Old Paths, ch. 1 “Inspiration”
> “The Word of God is not a book like other books. It lives, it speaks, it acts. The Spirit speaks through it. He pierces the heart by it. No man is convicted, converted, or sanctified apart from it. Those who boast of the Spirit but despise the Word are deluded. The Spirit never forsakes His sword.”
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William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour, Part I, ch. 6
> “The Word is called a sword, and the Spirit is the sword-bearer. It wounds sin, it defends against temptation, it kills error. It is the Spirit’s weapon. No other shall He use. If thou cast away the Bible, thou art weaponless, and the Spirit withdraweth. Many would have the Spirit without the Word—so did the enthusiasts of old—and fell into gross delusions.”
—
Thomas Manton, Sermons on James 1:21
> “The Word pierceth with power, but only when accompanied by the Spirit. It can divide between soul and spirit, that is, between nature and grace, which no man else can do. To put the Word out of the hand is to put the sword out of the Spirit’s hand.”
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Jonathan Edwards, Religious Affections, Part III, §11
> “True conviction and repentance arise from the Word of God applied by the Spirit. Where there is no Scripture foundation, affections are unstable. It is the Spirit’s sword that pierceth the heart. He convinces by the Word. Seek not His work apart from it.”
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George Whitefield, Sermon: The Almost Christian
> “I have seen the Word fall with power on many—a sharp sword cutting to the heart. And this was the work of the Spirit. But never have I seen men broken who despised the Bible. The Spirit never works without His weapon. The Word is His chariot.”
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Hugh Latimer, Sermons on the Word
> “The Word is sharp—it striketh at sin. It divideth, it discerneth, it awaketh. But only when the Holy Ghost driveth it. If ye close the Bible and open thy mouth to dreams, ye take the sword from the Spirit’s hand and run upon delusion.”
—
Dwight L. Moody, Secret Power, ch. 5
> “If a man is convicted of sin, it is by the Word. If he is converted, it is through the Word. The Spirit never draws blood but by this sword. Those who want the Spirit’s power must open the Bible. That’s where the power lies.”
—
Sir Robert Anderson, The Silence of God, ch. 6
> “The Word pierces when the Spirit applies it. Without it, there is no conscience work. Preaching without Scripture is powerless. The Spirit blesses His own voice—His written voice—and none other.”
—
👉 Scripture — Isaiah 55:11
> “So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.”
—
Treasury of Scripture Knowledge (TSK) Cross-References
Numbers 23:19
> “God is not a man, that he should lie… hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?”
Deuteronomy 32:2
> “My doctrine shall drop as the rain… as the small rain upon the tender herb…”
Psalm 147:15
> “He sendeth forth his commandment upon earth: his word runneth very swiftly.”
Jeremiah 23:29
> “Is not my word like as a fire? saith the LORD; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces?”
Matthew 24:35
> “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.”
Romans 1:16
> “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation…”
—
👇 Commentary on Isaiah 55:11
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Matthew Henry, Commentary on Isaiah 55:11
> “The Word of God shall not be without effect; for it is His Word, and shall be fulfilled. The Spirit makes it effectual; it shall accomplish His pleasure in the hearts of men. Those who reject the Word hinder not God, but themselves. The Spirit rides in the chariot of Scripture. None of His messages fail.”
—
Thomas Watson, The Godly Man’s Picture, ch. 2
> “The Word is effectual not by man’s skill, but by God’s Spirit. He attends it with power. It shall not return void. A man may preach with eloquence, and yet convert none. But where the Spirit breaths upon the Word, it works mightily. Let none look for the Spirit who refuse the Word. That is His channel.”
—
John Flavel, The Method of Grace, Sermon 3
> “When God sends forth His Word, He sends His Spirit with it. It is never fruitless where the Spirit applies it. Some receive it to conversion, some to judgment—but it never returns void. If thou neglectest the Word, thou despisest the Spirit’s instrument. None can expect prosperity of soul who forsake the Scriptures.”
—
Thomas Goodwin, The Work of the Holy Ghost, Book II, ch. 5
> “The Word shall not return void, because the Spirit goeth with it. It prospereth in the end appointed—not always visibly, but certainly. The Spirit accompanieth the Word to the elect with grace, and to the reprobate with conviction. If the Word be absent, there is no sending, and no prospering. They who desire the Spirit must cleave to the Word.”
—
Richard Baxter, A Christian Directory, Part I, ch. 6
> “The Word hath never returned void where the Spirit sent it. It fails where men reject it, but not where God intends it to work. The Spirit blesses no instrument but this. All pretended workings of the Spirit apart from Scripture are counterfeit. Let men take heed how they part God from His Word.”
—
John Bunyan, Grace Abounding, §162
> “I was made to believe the Word would accomplish what it said, for it came not in word only, but in power. I saw it would not return void. This was the Spirit’s doing. It was the same Word that I had read before, but now it was alive, and would not let me go.”
—
J.C. Ryle, Old Paths, ch. 1 “Inspiration”
> “God’s Word will not fail. It is not like man’s word. It works. The Spirit accompanies it. He uses it. Apart from the Bible, there is no spiritual fruit. Let no one speak of the Spirit who refuses to bow before Scripture. It is His appointed means, and He owns no other.”
—
William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour, Part III, ch. 4
> “The Word prospereth not by nature, but by divine appointment. The Spirit makes it fruitful. It is never in vain, though it seem so. Where it converteth not, it hardeneth. Where it sanctifieth not, it condemneth. The Spirit lets none escape the influence of the Word. But if you abandon the Word, you shut out the Spirit.”
—
Thomas Manton, Sermons on Psalm 119, Sermon 43
> “God’s Word never falleth to the ground. It is an immortal seed. The Spirit blesseth it in secret ways, though men perceive it not. If thou wilt have the Spirit’s power, receive His Word. If thou wilt see no prosperity in soul, neglect it, and thou shalt have thine own way.”
—
Jonathan Edwards, Religious Affections, Part III, §12
> “The power of God is chiefly exerted through the Word. The Spirit gives it success. It never returns void where the heart is humble. Where Scripture is neglected, the Spirit is grieved. He works not without His own truth. That truth He always honors.”
—
George Whitefield, Sermon: The Power of the Word
> “I have seen the Word prosper where none expected it. It broke the hardest heart, because the Spirit was with it. Not one line of it returns void. And if you neglect the Bible, you resist the very hand of the Spirit. He shall not work apart from the Word.”
—
Hugh Latimer, Sermon of the Plough
> “The seed goeth forth, and the ploughman ploweth. That seed is God’s Word, and it never faileth. But where it is scorned, the Spirit ploweth not. He blesseth His own Word, and no other doctrine. If you put it away, you reject the harvest.”
—
Dwight L. Moody, Pleasure and Profit in Bible Study, ch. 4
> “The Bible always does something. That’s why I trust it. It may convict, or convert, or judge, but it never does nothing. That’s the Spirit’s doing. Don’t think you can have the Spirit’s power without the Word. That’s His sword.”
—
Sir Robert Anderson, The Bible or the Church?, ch. 8
> “The Word shall not return void, because the Spirit of God makes it effectual. He has bound Himself to that Word. Men who look for spiritual effect apart from Scripture look in vain. It prospers because God sends it with His Spirit.”
—
👉Scripture — Romans 1:16 (KJV)
> “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.”
—
Treasury of Scripture Knowledge (TSK) Cross-References
1 Corinthians 1:18
> “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.”
1 Corinthians 15:2
> “By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you…”
2 Timothy 1:8
> “Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord…”
Ephesians 1:13
> “In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation…”
Hebrews 2:3–4
> “How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord… God also bearing them witness… with gifts of the Holy Ghost…”
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👇 Commentary from Approved Authors on Romans 1:16
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Matthew Henry, Commentary on Romans 1:16
> “The gospel is a revelation of the righteousness of God, and it is made effectual to salvation. It is the great instrument of the Spirit. Wherever it is believed, it saves. Wherever it is despised, it condemns. Paul gloried in it, for he knew the Spirit’s power went with it. There is no salvation without it. To speak of the Spirit without the gospel is to divorce that which God hath joined.”
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Thomas Watson, A Body of Divinity, ch. 3 “The Gospel”
> “The gospel is the chariot in which the Spirit rideth. It is called the power of God because the Spirit makes it effectual. A sermon without the Spirit is but a cloud without rain. And yet the Spirit worketh not apart from the gospel. It is His instrument to humble, convert, and comfort. Take away the Word, and you stop the wheel of grace.”
—
John Flavel, The Fountain of Life, Sermon 24
> “The gospel is not a dead letter, but the very breath of God. It saves not of itself, but as attended by the Spirit. The power is God’s, but the means is the gospel. If you despise the means, you shall not have the power. The Spirit blesses not dreams, but doctrine.”
—
Thomas Goodwin, The Work of the Holy Ghost, Book II, ch. 9
> “The gospel is the Spirit’s channel. It is His sword, His light, His seed. Where it is preached in truth, the Spirit accompanieth it. It is the power of God, not by nature, but by His appointment. If men forsake the gospel in hope of the Spirit’s working, they shall have neither.”
—
Richard Baxter, A Call to the Unconverted, § Opening Exhortation
> “This gospel which I preach to you is not mine but God’s. It is His arm of power to pull down strongholds. But it only works by the Spirit. If you turn from the gospel, you turn from the Spirit. The Spirit saves not without the Word. O tremble to despise the gospel, lest ye despise the very power of God!”
—
John Bunyan, The Jerusalem Sinner Saved, §7
> “Christ sendeth His Word to the chief of sinners. It is the gospel that bringeth life. And it cometh not in word only, but in power and the Holy Ghost. Let no man look for the Spirit while he rejects the gospel. For the gospel is the net, and the Spirit draweth with it.”
—
J.C. Ryle, Old Paths, ch. 1 “Inspiration”
> “The gospel is the mighty engine God uses to save. It is called His power, and with reason. For the Spirit of God works by it. Those who would have the Spirit’s power without the gospel are asking for a miracle without a means. God works not so. His Spirit goes forth with His truth.”
—
William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour, Part I, ch. 4
> “The gospel is the trumpet of God, and the Spirit blows it. It is His power to awaken, to kill, and to make alive. There is no grace where there is no gospel. And no Spirit where the gospel is cast aside. The Word is His artillery—cast it away and the siege ceaseth.”
—
Thomas Manton, Sermons on James 1:21
> “The Word is called the engrafted Word, able to save the soul. Why? Because the Spirit of God uses it. It is His appointed means. Paul was not ashamed because he saw what power came from it. If thou lookest for another power apart from it, thou errest not knowing the Scriptures.”
—
Jonathan Edwards, Religious Affections, Part III, §13
> “The gospel is the ordained channel of all saving influence. The Spirit doth not regenerate without it. The Word is the vehicle. It is the power of God, not as sound, but as truth attended by the Spirit. Wherever the gospel is honored, the Spirit dwells. Wherever it is scorned, He departs.”
—
George Whitefield, Sermon: The Gospel Supper
> “The gospel is not a dead letter, but the very breath of the Spirit. It cometh with power. I have seen its arrows pierce the soul. That was not my word, but the Spirit riding in it. If you reject the gospel, you reject the only chariot wherein the Spirit rideth.”
—
Hugh Latimer, Sermon on the Parable of the Sower
> “Some seed fell on good ground and brought forth fruit. What is that seed? It is the Word. And it is the Spirit that giveth the increase. They who would reap without sowing the gospel, hope for harvest without ploughing. The Spirit useth the gospel.”
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Dwight L. Moody, Secret Power, ch. 5
> “There is no power like the gospel when the Spirit is in it. That’s the secret. The gospel itself is powerless without the Spirit, and the Spirit never acts apart from it. People want the Spirit’s power, but they won’t preach the Bible. That’s why the churches are dry.”
—
Sir Robert Anderson, The Silence of God, ch. 6
> “The gospel is the chosen vehicle of divine power. The Spirit is bound to it. It is His means of conviction, regeneration, and edification. All who claim spiritual influence apart from the gospel place themselves outside the pale of Scripture truth.”
—
👉Scripture — 1 Corinthians 1:18
> “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.”
—
Treasury of Scripture Knowledge (TSK) Cross-References
Romans 1:16
> “The gospel… is the power of God unto salvation…”
1 Corinthians 2:14
> “The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God… they are foolishness unto him…”
2 Corinthians 2:15–16
> “For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ… to the one we are the savour of death… to the other the savour of life…”
1 Thessalonians 2:13
> “Ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh…”
Hebrews 4:12
> “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword…”
—
👇 Commentary on 1 Corinthians 1:18
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Matthew Henry, Commentary on 1 Corinthians 1:18
> “The great gospel doctrine of salvation by the cross of Christ is foolishness to the perishing. Yet this foolishness is the wisdom and power of God. It is the Word that the Spirit owns. When it is preached in simplicity, with faith, the Spirit makes it the power of God. They that scorn the Word, scorn the Spirit. The preaching of the cross is His instrument.”
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Thomas Watson, A Body of Divinity, ch. 5 “The Gospel”
> “The preaching of the cross is power, but not by man’s wit. It is the Spirit that makes it powerful. He rides in the chariot of gospel preaching. The proud laugh, but the broken tremble. The Spirit makes the Word effectual. Without the Word, He works not. Without the Spirit, the Word is dead.”
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John Flavel, The Fountain of Life, Sermon 19
> “The doctrine of Christ crucified seems despicable to the carnal man, but it is the centre of all power. The Spirit applies it. By the cross, He humbles, converts, sanctifies. Where Christ is not preached, the Spirit is not present. To exalt the Spirit and neglect the cross is to rob Him of His weapon.”
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Thomas Goodwin, The Work of the Holy Ghost, Book III, ch. 4
> “The preaching of the cross is foolishness to many, yet it is the Spirit’s sword. He chooseth to bless no other means. All saving power is from Him, but by this means. The Spirit never converts by imagination, only by truth preached. It is His own ordinance.”
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Richard Baxter, The Reformed Pastor, Part I
> “We are ministers of Christ, and we preach not ourselves. The cross is the subject. The Spirit is the power. They that hear the doctrine with reverence, the Spirit fills. They that despise it, grieve the Spirit. The Word is His chosen vessel. He honors no other.”
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John Bunyan, The Doctrine of Law and Grace Unfolded, §12
> “The preaching of the cross hath power, for it is God’s own Word. The Spirit backs it with strength. Where the preacher exalts Christ crucified, the Spirit is present. But if we turn from that doctrine to fables or feelings, we walk without the Spirit.”
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J.C. Ryle, Old Paths, ch. 1 “Inspiration”
> “The preaching of Christ crucified is what the Spirit blesses. He does not bless oratory or emotion—but the Word. Those who are ashamed of gospel doctrine cut themselves off from the Spirit’s power. He never honors preaching which dishonours the Book.”
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William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour, Part II, ch. 3
> “To the carnal man, preaching is folly. But it is the Spirit’s trumpet. He alarms, awakens, wounds, and heals by it. Turn from it, and thou turnest from God’s thunder. The Spirit speaks in no other voice.”
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Thomas Manton, Sermons on 2 Thessalonians 2:13
> “Salvation comes by the Spirit through the truth. The doctrine of the cross is His key. It openeth hearts, closets of sin, and fountains of tears. Without it, men are dead. The Spirit blesses no fiction, only truth. And this is the truth—the cross.”
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Jonathan Edwards, Religious Affections, Part III, §14
> “Preaching the cross is the appointed means of awakening. The Spirit sets it home. It is foolishness to the unrenewed, but to the humble it is the power of God. The Spirit never uses silence or mysticism to save. He uses the cross.”
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George Whitefield, Sermon: The Lord Our Righteousness
> “I resolved to know nothing among you but Christ crucified. Why? Because the Spirit works by this preaching. I have seen hearts broken, lives changed, eyes opened—not by my strength, but by His Spirit through the cross. Forsake the cross, and you forsake the Spirit’s sword.”
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Hugh Latimer, Sermon on the Cross
> “The Word of the cross is the mightiest Word. It seemeth base, but it killeth sin. The Spirit attendeth upon it. No other preaching availeth. The wisdom of men may move the ear, but the Spirit striketh with the gospel.”
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Dwight L. Moody, Secret Power, ch. 6
> “Preach the cross, and the Spirit will come. Leave out the cross, and you may have a crowd, but no conversions. The power is not in the man, but in the message. And the Spirit uses one message—Christ crucified.”
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Sir Robert Anderson, The Gospel and Its Ministry, ch. 2
> “The preaching of the cross is the one doctrine the Spirit seals. It is God’s power to save. Those who despise it or replace it with sentimental religion quench the Spirit. He abides where Christ is exalted, and not otherwise.”
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👉 Scripture — 1 Corinthians 2:14 (KJV)
> “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.”
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Treasury of Scripture Knowledge (TSK) Cross-References
John 8:43
> “Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word.”
Romans 8:5–8
> “They that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh… they that are in the flesh cannot please God.”
1 Corinthians 1:23
> “We preach Christ crucified… unto the Greeks foolishness…”
Ephesians 4:18
> “Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God…”
2 Corinthians 4:3–4
> “But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: in whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds…”
Jude 1:19
> “These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit.”
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👇 Long-Form Commentary on 1 Corinthians 2:14
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Matthew Henry, Commentary on 1 Corinthians 2:14
> “The natural man, that is, man in his natural state, without the regenerating Spirit of God, does not receive, he does not understand nor relish, the things of the Spirit. They are foolishness to him. He has no relish of them, no desire for them. These things must be spiritually discerned. The carnal man has neither faculty nor disposition to discern them. Hence, the necessity of the Spirit’s work in the soul. Without Him, the Scriptures remain a sealed book.”
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Thomas Watson, The Mischief of Sin, ch. 4
> “The natural man cannot comprehend spiritual mysteries. He hath no spiritual palate. Though the Scripture be clear, yet to him it is dark, for the lamp of the Spirit is not lit. Many talk of the Spirit and despise the Word, but here we see they lack both. For he who hath the Spirit loves the things of the Spirit.”
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John Flavel, The Touchstone of Sincerity, ch. 2
> “A natural man is all for reason, and the truths of God seem absurd to him. He finds no sweetness in the Scriptures, because the Spirit is absent from his soul. He may read, but he doth not taste. To discern spiritual things requires a spiritual faculty, which only the Spirit of God implants.”
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Thomas Goodwin, The Object and Acts of Justifying Faith, Book I, ch. 6
> “Though the Scriptures be plain, yet the natural man sees them not. For the eye of the soul is dark. Spiritual discernment is from the Spirit. Without Him, there is no true apprehension. Men may be learned, yet ignorant of Christ. The Spirit must open the eye and incline the will.”
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Richard Baxter, The Saints’ Everlasting Rest, Part II, ch. 6
> “O how blind is the unsanctified heart! Though he may read the Word daily, yet he understands not. Though the Spirit speak, yet he heareth not. The Scriptures are to him but riddles. It is not the brightness of Scripture, but the darkness of his soul that hindereth knowledge.”
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John Bunyan, Some Gospel Truths Opened, §17
> “The man without the Spirit cannot understand the Scriptures. Though the words be plain, they are sealed to him. He readeth, but seeth not. He heareth, but heareth not. Let no man think he hath the Spirit who despiseth the Word, for the Spirit never teacheth a soul but by the Word.”
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J.C. Ryle, Practical Religion, ch. 2 “Bible Reading”
> “It is not enough to read the Bible. The natural man may read much, and profit nothing. He lacks the key — the teaching of the Spirit. Without that, the Bible is a locked cabinet. The words may be known, but the sense and power are hidden. Only the Spirit gives understanding. The man who rejects the Bible rejects the very means of receiving the Spirit’s light.”
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William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour, Part I, ch. 5
> “A man may carry the lamp of the Word and yet stumble, if he have not eyes. The natural man is blind. He seeth not the spiritual beauty of Christ, nor the sweetness of His promises. These are spiritually discerned. The Spirit opens the eyes, and till then, the gospel is a sealed fountain.”
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Thomas Manton, Sermons on Psalm 119, Sermon 102
> “The natural man doth not savour the things of God. The Spirit must tune the heart to the Word. Otherwise, he sees no comeliness in Christ, nor comfort in the promises. The Word is precious, but to a dead soul, it is tasteless.”
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Jonathan Edwards, The Divine and Supernatural Light, Sermon on 1 Corinthians 2:14
> “This spiritual understanding is not the result of natural reason or human learning. It is a supernatural light, imparted by the Holy Spirit. It is not a new revelation, but a new sense. The truths of Scripture remain the same, but the eyes that behold them are changed. Without this, the natural man cannot understand the things of God.”
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George Whitefield, Sermon: Marks of the New Birth
> “The natural man is stone-blind. He may read, hear, argue, but he cannot feel the weight of divine truth. The Spirit must awaken him. You talk of inward impressions and neglect the Word? Then you are still natural. For the Spirit never works apart from the Bible.”
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Hugh Latimer, Sermon before the Convocation
> “He that is without the Spirit seeth the Word as a dead letter. He readeth but understandeth not. He heareth, but discerneth not. The preacher may cry aloud, but unless the Holy Ghost interprets, the heart is fast shut. The Word is meat, but the Spirit must give a mouth to eat it.”
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Dwight L. Moody, Pleasure and Profit in Bible Study, ch. 5
> “The Bible seems dry to a man who hasn’t the Spirit. That’s why so many find no joy in it. The natural man sees words, but not power. The Spirit gives light. You can’t separate them. Try to take the Spirit without the Word, and you get neither.”
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Sir Robert Anderson, The Bible and Modern Criticism, ch. 9
> “To the unregenerate, the Bible is often incomprehensible. The difficulty lies not in the Word, but in the man. The Spirit of God is the true Interpreter. The natural man is deaf to the gospel. The Spirit opens both the ear and the heart. Without Him, the Word is veiled.”
👉 Scripture — 2 Corinthians 4:3–4 (KJV)
> “But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:
In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.”
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Treasury of Scripture Knowledge (TSK) Cross-References
Isaiah 6:9–10
> “Hear ye indeed, but understand not… make the heart of this people fat, and their ears heavy…”
Matthew 13:14–15
> “By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand… their eyes they have closed…”
John 3:19–20
> “Light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light…”
Acts 26:18
> “To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light…”
Ephesians 4:18
> “Having the understanding darkened… because of the blindness of their heart…”
2 Thessalonians 2:10–12
> “They received not the love of the truth… God shall send them strong delusion…”
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👇Long-Form Commentary on 2 Corinthians 4:3–4
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Matthew Henry, Commentary on 2 Corinthians 4:3–4
> “The gospel is hid, not in itself, for it is a light, but in respect of those who are lost—whose minds the god of this world hath blinded. Satan blinds men to keep them from seeing gospel light. The Spirit alone can open blind eyes. The instrument is the gospel. Where the gospel is neglected, Satan triumphs and men perish. If the Word be cast aside, light is withheld, and the Spirit is grieved.”
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Thomas Watson, The Doctrine of Repentance, ch. 2
> “Sin blinds the mind. The gospel is glorious, but to the natural man it is a riddle. The god of this world puts out the eye of reason. It is the Spirit that openeth the eyes to see Christ in the Word. Without the Word, the Spirit hath no glass in which to show the beauty of Christ.”
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John Flavel, The Fountain of Life, Sermon 26
> “Where the gospel is not preached, or not received, Satan reigns. He blinds, lest the light should shine. The Spirit’s office is to remove this blindness. But He works not where the Word is refused. The gospel is the chariot of light; the Spirit is its driver.”
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Thomas Goodwin, The Work of the Holy Ghost, Book III, ch. 2
> “The gospel, though clear, is hid when the Spirit openeth not the eye. It is hid to them that are lost. And why? Because they receive not the Word. The Spirit gives light in the mirror of Scripture. They who refuse the Word, or exalt themselves above it, perish in their darkness.”
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Richard Baxter, The Saints’ Everlasting Rest, Part I, ch. 4
> “The Spirit illuminates by the gospel. The devil blinds by error and neglect of truth. When men despise Scripture, the light is withdrawn. The soul is in darkness not for want of sun, but for want of sight. The Spirit giveth that sight, but only where the Word is honored.”
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John Bunyan, Light for Them that Sit in Darkness, §2
> “The gospel is the light, and Christ the Sun. But many sit in darkness because the devil blinds them, and they will not look. The Spirit openeth the eyes to see the Son through the glass of Scripture. Cast away that glass, and thou shalt see nothing.”
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J.C. Ryle, Old Paths, ch. 1 “Inspiration”
> “Why is the gospel hid to so many? Not because it lacks clarity, but because they lack sight. Their minds are blinded. Only the Holy Ghost can give spiritual vision. But He gives it by the gospel. Where the Bible is scorned, the Spirit is absent, and blindness remains.”
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William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour, Part III, ch. 6
> “Satan blinds men by keeping them from the Word, or by turning their minds against it. The Spirit opens the eyes with gospel light. He doth not teach in dreams, but by the Scriptures. Men perish not for want of light, but for want of sight. That sight is the Spirit’s work, but only through the Word.”
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Thomas Manton, Sermons on Isaiah 53, Sermon 3
> “The Spirit opens the eyes to see the sufferings of Christ. The devil blinds to keep the cross hidden. The Word is the glass, the Spirit the light. Without the Word, there is no sight; without the Spirit, no saving view. Reject either, and the gospel is hid.”
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Jonathan Edwards, The Spirit of God Operating by Means
> “The Holy Ghost gives spiritual light. He makes the gospel shine. Yet the means is always the Word. Satan blinds the mind through error and neglect of the Bible. It is not by inward whisperings, but by the truth of the gospel that light comes.”
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George Whitefield, Sermon: Christ the Only Rest for the Weary and Heavy-Laden
> “Many stumble at the Word because they are blinded by the god of this world. Only the Spirit can open their eyes. And He does so through the gospel. Where the gospel is not preached plainly, or is despised, darkness remains, and Satan hath his way.”
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Hugh Latimer, Sermon Before King Edward VI
> “It is not the gospel that is dark, but the eyes that are shut. The devil closeth the eye, the Spirit openeth it. But He doeth it not without the Word. Would you be enlightened? Take the Word, for the Spirit will have no other candle.”
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Dwight L. Moody, Secret Power, ch. 6
> “The gospel is like the sun—it shines. But men are blind. The Spirit must open their eyes. The devil blinds people by keeping them from the Bible. The Spirit draws people by the Book. No Bible, no light. No light, no Spirit. It’s that simple.”
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Sir Robert Anderson, The Gospel and Its Ministry, ch. 3
> “The veil is over their heart, not because of the obscurity of the gospel, but because of Satan’s blinding. The Spirit removes the veil—but only by the gospel. The Word is the only appointed instrument of light.”
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