Search the scriptures
Our Lord's direction, with regard to the use of this means, is likewise plain and clear. Search the scriptures, he says to the unbelieving Jews, for they testify of me. John 5:39. And for this very end he directed them to search the scriptures, that they might believe in him.
The objection, that this is not a command, but only an assertion that they did search the scriptures, is shamelessly false. I desire those who urge it to let us know how a command can be more clearly expressed than in those terms. The Greek means, Search the scriptures. It is as peremptory as so many words can make it.
1771 text
Our Lord’s direction with regard to the use of this means, is likewise plain and clear. Search the scriptures, saith he to the unbelieving Jews,――for they testify of me, John v. 39. And for this very end did he direct them to search the scriptures, that they might believe in him.
The objection, “That this is not a command, but only an assertion, that they did search the scriptures,” is shamelessly false. I desire those who urge it, to let us know, how a command can be more clearly expressed, than in those terms, Ἐρευνᾶτε τὰς γραφὰς. It is as peremptory as so many words can make it.
About this text
Rendered in modern English, to be read and heard. Open the 1771 text under each part to check the claims and the scripture.
Rendered in modern English. The 1771 panel is his own Pine printing of the Works. It is public domain.
Catalogue & scope
Sermon 16 in the 1771 Works. Malachi 3:7.
This is an AI-assisted study translation. Source fidelity and completeness have not been independently certified. It is not a complete critical edition.