Treasures Without End: The Lifelong Journey Into God’s Word

A few months ago, a friend and preaching colleague, Steve Wolfgang, posted a quote from Augustine of Hippo (354-430), the theologian and philosopher, viewed as one of the most important “Church Fathers” of the Patristic Period.

Reflect on the depth of its meaning, then consider a few short observations.

“The depth of Scripture. The Christian Scriptures are so deep that, even if I studied them to the exclusion of all else, from early childhood to worn-out old age, with ample leisure and untiring zeal, and with greater capacity of mind than I possess, each day I would still discover new riches within them.

The fundamental truths necessary for salvation are found with ease in the Scriptures. But even when a person has accepted these truths, and is both God-fearing and righteous in his actions, there are still so many things which lie under a vast veil of mystery.

Through reading the Scriptures, we can pierce this veil, and find the deepest wisdom in the words which express these mysteries, and in the mysteries themselves. The oldest, the ablest, and the most ardent student of Scripture will say at the end of each day: ‘I have finished, and yet my studies have only just begun.’”

— Augustine of Hippo, Letter 137 as it appears in Nicholas R. Needham’s 2,000 Years of Christ’s Power, Vol. 1: The Age of the Early Church Fathers:

Simply put, Augustine is saying, “God’s Word is bottomless because its Author is infinite.” In the words of the Apostle Paul,  “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God!”

Yet, the paradox is striking, because the fundamental message of the Gospel is simple. God’s love, Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, the call to faith, repentance, and baptism are not difficult truths to understand. They’re not hidden. We can know what to do to be saved.

However, the profound Truths of Scripture continually call for deeper study and reflection. The personality of God Himself, the wonder of creation, and the questions surrounding eternity and life beyond all the grave challenge our thinking.

Furthermore, though the command to live a holy life is spelled out in easy-to-understand detail in the Bible, to appreciate the depth of God’s grace, mercy, and forgiveness and how it applies in a practical sense offers its own challenges. Indeed, we all need to pray the Psalmist’s prayer: “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law: (Ps, 119:18).

It has been said, “The Bible is not a book we master. It is a book that masters us.”

So, keep returning to Scripture. Keep reading. Keep exploring. Keep studying. Keep learning. It will provide for you fresh and renewed mercies, insights, and grace.

The treasures of Scripture are endless, because Christ is.

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman