The Unchained Word

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"It is the Gospel for which I have to suffer imprisonment -- as if I were a criminal. But there is no prison for the word of God." (2 Timothy 2:9, Moffatt NT).

There is great irony in the fact that when the powers of darkness orchestrated the imprisonment of Paul through the efforts of religious fanatics -- his imprisonment became the occasion for the unleashing of the Word of God. Had Paul NOT been locked up, there is good evidence to conclude that we would not have much of the New Testament as we know it today.

Though Paul was bound in chains when he wrote it, there are no prison bars strong enough to hold back God's Word from anyone anywhere.

In the front of an old Family Bible, I found these words -- "This Book contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and it decisions are immutable.

"Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveler’s map, the pilgrim’s staff, the pilot’s compass, the soldier’s sword, and the Christian’s charter. Here Paradise is restored, Heaven opened, and the Gates of Hell disclosed.

"Christ is its Grand Subject, our good its design, and the Glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet.

"Read it slowly, frequently, and prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure. It is given you in life, will be opened at the judgement, and be remembered forever. It involves the highest responsibility, rewards the greatest labor, and condemns all who trifle with its holy contents. This volume is the Word of GOD."

The Word of God cannot be chained -- and it will therefore break every chain that holds you back from fully, freely and faithfully following God.
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