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STRONGHOLD OF TRUTH
Ma.n Needs & Guide :Man, even as man, needs a guide. 'vVe were never intended to be independent. Our very nature is limited, and requires guidance and authority. But still more, man as a sinner needs authority. Amidst all the sins and sorrows of life, its difficulties, its problems, its perplexi ties, man needs an authoritative guide concerning things spiritual and eternal. Two things are necessary for every life-truth, and the eye to see it. 2. The Source of Authority.-Where is this need to be satisfied? The answer, of course, is that God is the Source of all authority. He is the Source of truth, of righteousness, and of all guidance; and authority is expressed by revelation. God's own revelation must of necessity be our authority; and for our present purpose it will suffice to say that Christ, as representing and revealing God, is our ultimate authority. The Source of all authority is the Lord Jesus Christ. So far, I do not suppose there will be any real diffi culty. But at once the question arises: God is invisible. Christ is no longer here. Where, then, can this Divine authority be found? Where is it embodied? How can I be sure of God as the Source of all authority? How can I be sure of Christ as the expression of the mind and will of God? 3. The Seat of Attthority.-'vVe have to face this question as to where the revelation of God is to be found. I suppose there are only three usual, perhaps only three possible, answers. It is in connection with these three answers that controversy to some extent seems inevitable. There are those who say that the seat of authority is in human reason. I am using the word reason to represent what is sometimes spoken of as human life, including rea son and conscience; but reason will suffice. Some say that the consent of the mind is the condition and foundation of all certitude. Let us be very clear on this point. Reason is valuable and necessary. "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy mind." The mind is essential as part of human nature, and is required
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