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Religion and Theology-—What is the distinction between these two studies? Religion is man-made and usually has to do with, ". . . the worship practices of human beings in particular environments." Theology is concerned with "The Study Of God." Religion is natural and theology is supernatural (above nature). One thing that most people will (or at least should) concede is that God is incomprehensible. God is infinite and we are not, so we cannot possibly have a comprehensive knowledge of God.

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The 19th century Anglican Minister, J.C. Ryle, whose writings continue to have considerable influence in our day, opens the text Acts 4:12 "Neither is there salvation in any other; for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." This is one of the numerous clear statements in the New Testament that assert that Christ is the only way of salvation. Is Christ set forth as "The Only Way" in the Old Testament as well? Absolutely! Not in plain outright statements as in The New Testament but in type and shadow.

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For anyone who is in Christ, their chief desire should be "To Draw Near To Their God." The language of their heart ought to echo that of the Psalmist——"Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire besides thee!" John Calvin hit the bullseye in his Institutes when he set forth man's two greatest priorities in life——to know God and know yourself.

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How does "The Eye Of Faith" view eternal realities? "Faith so looks at things that are far off, that they have a kind of mental intellectual existence; though absent, as if they were present; being promised. As sure as if they were already possessed."

A principle that Thomas Doolittle gives us is, "Let unseen, eternal things be the first that you look at." Thus "unseen things" should have the priority of our thoughts, care, and diligent endeavors. . . ." If we are wise, we will be determined to prioritize "seeking the Kingdom of God."

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How important is the holiness of His people to our Sovereign Lord? What are the most effectual means (revealing God's great wisdom) to bring about this desired end? Thomas Gouge, in this extraordinary work on Reformation, asserts that God's delivering mercies has this end in view——"The design of God in delivering a people from eminent dangers of ruin, is to oblige them to forsake all sinful and wicked practices." Believer's should increasingly desire to do God's will, to honor Him in all things, to intensely desire to live for His glory, to conform all of their ways to His holy word.