inwardly to the soul. This subjective teaching, or inward call, is irresistible, and its benefits are eternal blessings of saving grace.
As Prophet, Christ teaches with authority. He teaches as no man can for Re is all-knowing, almighty, and perfect (without sin or fault). Human teachers can reach the mind, but only God can reach the heart.
|
Martin Luther, the great reformer, struggled many years under deep convictions of sin and guilt. As a monk and professor of theology, he had studied the writings of many church fathers and the Bible. His mind was continually occupied with religious teachings. However, in approximately 1512, as he was studying for his lecture series on the Book of Romans, he read Romans 1:17, the last part, "The just shall live by faith." The Holy Spirit enlightened his understanding and this truth of Scripture penetrated his heart. God spoke to him, showing him that salvation is by faith in the righteousness of Christ, and not in man's merits. The Spirit revealed Christ to Luther. His heart melted. Joy replaced sadness, light dispelled darkness, and peace filled his restless soul. As Prophet, teaching by His Word and Spirit, Christ performed in the life of Luther that which no human teachers can accomplish. Why is it impossible for human teachers to penetrate and enlighten the hearts of others? |
|
What dangers develop from either underemphasizing or overemphasizing Christ's objective teaching (God's external call)? |
For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
- II Corinthians 4:6
Howbeit when He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth:
He shall glorify Me: for He shall receive of Mine, and shall show it unto you.
All things that the Father hath are Mine: therefore said I, that He shall take of Mine, and shall show it unto you.
- John 16:13a, 14-15
And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at His doctrine:
For He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.
- Matthew 7:28-29
