John Newton

In the past couple weeks of studying and writing about the practicality of theology in our lives I find it necessary to seek out the warnings of such promotion. While I still believe theology is intensely practical, it must be noted that if knowledge terminates on itself it is useless. I remember hearing one pastor say, “Exultation that does not flow from education, affections that do not flow from knowing, savoring that does not flow from seeing, feeling that does not flow from thinking – are hollow and rootless – noisy gongs and clanging cymbals. And God is not glorified by artificial and empty passions. True delight is rooted in true doctrine. God-centered Exultation is rooted in God-centered Education.” The issue that arises when this reality does not end in exultation is excellently described by John Newton when he said:

Whatever it be that makes us trust in ourselves that we are comparatively wise or good, so as to treat those with contempt who do not subscribe to our doctrines, or follow our party, is a proof and fruit of a self-righteous spirit. Self- righteousness can feed upon doctrines, as well as upon works; and a man may have the heart of a Pharisee, while his head is stored with orthodox notions of the unworthiness of the creature and the riches of free grace.

Soli Deo Gloria,

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