Preface.

those [things] which in themselves are neither evil nor good; because not only does every error indicate a weakness or imperfection of the understanding, but also because those [errors] under discussion here have, in part, such an influence on the entire life of humanity that through the knowledge of truth, salvation original: Seeligkeit. As noted previously, this refers to the state of eternal blessedness. is promoted; on the contrary, by being deprived of it, the path to eternal destruction original: Verderben. In a theological context, this refers to spiritual ruin or damnation. is paved.

And who would indeed doubt that it is the duty of a righteous teacher to earnestly embrace the truth and to defend it against all errors, since the divine command explicitly brings this with it? For Paul The Apostle Paul, whose New Testament letters provide the framework for the duties of church leaders. desires that a bishop shall be powerful to exhort through wholesome doctrine and to rebuke original: ſtraffen. Here meaning to correct or refute through argument. those who contradict [it], Titus 1:9. The Holy Scripture is not only [intended] for doctrine, for improvement, and for training in righteousness, but also for reproof original Greek: πρὸς ἔλεγχον (pros elenchon). This term refers to a convincing refutation or a powerful conviction of one's errors.—for the rebuke or powerful conviction and overcoming of those who have strayed from the right path of truth—having been inspired by GOD Himself, as Paul again testifies in 2 Timothy 3:16. Indeed, our Savior Himself, who presented to us the most perfect example of gentleness and humility, and thus of true moderation Walch uses the term moderation to mean the balanced, temperate conduct expected of a Christian, even when engaging in disputes., did not fail [to rebuke] the false and erroneous opinions of both the scribes and Pha-