Scripture

ALL Scripture is given by inspiration of God. Every page of the 
sacred volume is stamped with the impress of Deity, and contains 
an inexhaustible treasure of wisdom, and knowledge, and consolation. 
Some portions of the word of God, like some parts of the material creation, 
may be more important than others. But all have their proper place, 
all proclaim the character of their glorious Author, and all ought to be 
earnestly and reverentially studied. Whatever be their subject, whether 
it relates to the history of individuals or of nations, whether it contains 
the words of precept or exhortation, or whether it teaches by example, 
all is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in 
righteousness. But while every part of the word of God demands the 
most serious attention, it is not to be doubted that certain portions of the 
sacred volume call for more frequent and deeper meditation. In the 
Old Testament, the Book of Psalms contains a summary of all Scripture, 
and an abridgment of its most important instructions and sweetest con 
solations. In the New Testament, the Epistle to the Romans is entitled 
to peculiar regard. It is the only part of Scripture which contains a 
detailed and systematic exhibition of the doctrines of Christianity. The 
great truths which are embodied and inculcated in every other part of 
the Bible, are here brought together in a condensed and comprehensive 
form. More especially, the glorious doctrine of justification by faith is 
clearly unfolded and exhibited in the strongest light. 

The Epistle to the Romans has always attracted the peculiar notice of 
those whose study has been directed to the interpretation of Scripture. 
To this portion of the Divine record, all who look for salvation by grace 
have constantly appealed, and here they have a rich mine of evidence, 
alike solid and inexhaustible. No considerable difference of interpreta 
tion has ever been given of its contents by those who have renounced 
their own wisdom, and determined to follow implicitly the obvious mean 
ing of the word of God. This Epistle has been equally an object of 
attention to those who admit the authority of Scripture, but follow their 
own wisdom in forming their system of religious doctrine. Salvation by 
grace and salvation by works are so incompatible with each other, that 
it might well be supposed no attempt would ever be made to bring them 
into harmony. Still the attempt has been made. Human wisdom can 
not receive the doctrine of the Epistle to the Romans, and men professing 
Christianity cannot deny it to be a part of Scripture.