CHAPTER V.

_Of reading the holy scriptures._

TRUTH, not eloquence, is to be sought for in holy scripture.

*All scripture is to be read by the same spirit wherewith it was written.

We ought to read plain and devout books as willingly as high and profound ones.

Let not the authority of the writer, whether he be of great or small learning, but the love of pure truth, draw thee to read.

*Search not who spake this, but mark what is spoken.

2. Men pass away; but the truth of the Lord remaineth for ever.

God speaks unto us sundry ways, without respect of persons.

Our own curiosity often hindereth us in reading the scriptures, when we will examine and discuss that which we should rather pass over without more ado.

If thou desire to profit, read humbly, simply, and faithfully.

Enquire willingly, and hear with silence the words of holy men: dislike not the parables of the elders, for they are not spoken without cause.