Things Worth Fighting For

“Clear cut definition of terms in religious matters, bold facing of the logical implications of religious views, is by many persons regarded as an impious proceeding. May it not discourage contribution to mission boards? May it not hinder the progress of consolidation, and produce a poor showing in columns of Church statistics? But with such persons we cannot possibly bring ourselves to agree. Light may seem at times to be an impertinent intruder, but it is always beneficial in the end. The type of religion which rejoices in the pious sound of traditional phrases, regardless of their meanings, or shrinks from "controversial" matters, will never stand amid the shocks of life. In the sphere of religion, as in other spheres, the things about which men are agreed are apt to be the things that are least worth holding; the really important things are the things about which men will fight." J. Gresham Machen, Christianity and Liberalism

Honey Requires the Honeycomb

"As honey requires honeycomb, so devotion needs to be structured by a learned and orthodox mind. As honeycomb needs to be filled, so ideas of the mind must also warm the heart and lead to activity in the world." Jean Gerson (1363-1429), On Mystical Theology

The Well is Deep

Study hard, for the well is deep, and our brains are shallow...
R. Baxter "the Reformed Pastor"

Truth Loves Light

All our teaching must be as plain and simple as possible. This doth suit a teacher's ends. He that would be understood must speak to the capacity of his hearers. Truth loves light, and is most beautiful when most naked.
R. Baxter "the Reformed Pastor"