A Worthy Aim

Nehemiah Coxe, concluding his introduction to “A Discourse of the Covenants,” writes,

“I will only add this: that on the whole, my aim has been to speak the truth in love and to take my notions from the Scriptures, not grafting any preconceived opinions of my own onto them. Where the evidence of truth appears, let it not be refused because it is offered in a mean dress and presented under the disadvantage of a rude and unpolished style. But consider instead the reason of what is said and with the noble Bereans search the Scriptures to see whether these things be so or not. And the Lord give you understanding in all things.”

N.C. (Covenant Theology, p.31)

In this paragraph Coxe recognizes that in order to speak the truth, one must take his notions from the Scriptures alone, without adding any opinions conceived by men. Scripture alone is the Word of God; the Bible does not share authority with popes, councils, creeds, confessions, commentaries, religious experiences, bodily sensations, emotions, “common sense”, philosophers, science, tradition, blogs, superstition, governments, populations, opinions, or anything else.

Coxe also recognizes his own limitations and asks his reader for patience with his sometimes “rude and unpolished style.” In Christian interaction, all should practice patience with each other, in anticipation of that time in which we ourselves will need the patience of others. Coxe pleads that his readers not be distracted by any faults of his literary presentation, but rather focus their attention on the pursuit of truth.

Once again, openly before his readers, Coxe submits himself to the authority of the Scriptures. He appeals to his readers to examine his writings in the light of Scripture to determine their worth. He concludes with an acknowledgement that understanding comes only from the Lord, and not from within. Otherwise, he might have pleaded that his readers use their own “common sense,” or to search their inner feelings to find the truth. Instead, Coxe wishes the Lord’s blessing upon his readers, that they might comprehend the majestic importance of God’s covenants with man. Christians would do well to follow Coxe’s example of humility before God and His Revealed Word.

Advertisement