Monday, June 10, 2013

Jesus, the Capital Figure of the Bible

John Newton on proclaiming the whole counsel of God, and doing so because it proclaims Christ from all of Scripture:
The whole Scripture, as it consists of histories, prophecies, doctrines, precepts, promises, exhortations, admonitions, encouragements, and reproofs, is the proper subject of the gospel ministry; and every part should in its place and course be attended to; yet so that, in every compartment we exhibit, Jesus should be the capital figure, in whom the prophecies are fulfilled, the promises established; to whom, in a way of type and emblem, the most important parts of Scripture history have an express reference; and from whom alone we can receive that life, strength, and encouragement, which are necessary to make obedience either pleasing or practicable.

--John Newton, from The Letters of John Newton