If I have observed anything by experience, it is this: a man may take the measure of his growth and decay in grace according to his thoughts and meditations upon the person of Christ, and the glory of Christ's Kingdom, and of His love.
Because he is; that is, because he is an infinitely glorious, good, wise, holy, powerful, righteous, self-subsisting , self-sufficient , and all-sufficient being; the fountain and author of all being and good; the first cause, last end, and sovereign Lord of all; therefore, he is to be worshipped: therefore, are we to admire, adore, and love him; to praise, to trust and to fear him.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of worshipping and revering a supreme being due to their infinite qualities and the fundamental role they play in existence.
John Owen's quote articulates a profound reverence for a divine being characterized by infinite goodness, wisdom, and power. He posits that this being is not only the source of all existence but also embodies the ultimate standard of excellence and virtue, deserving of admiration, love, worship, and trust from humanity. This perspective encourages a deep relationship with the divine, acknowledging its central role in our lives and the universe.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a sermon, the pastor reflected on the nature of God and this quote to underscore the need for worship.
More from John Owen
All quotes →Mortification is the soul's vigorous opposition to self, wherein sincerity is most evident.
The growth of trees and plants takes place so slowly that it is not easily seen. Daily we notice little change. But, in course of time, we see that a great change has taken place. So it is with grace. Sanctification is a progressive, lifelong work (Prov 4:18). It is an amazing work of God's grace and it is a work to be prayed for (Rom 8:27).
Free will is "corrupted nature's deformed darling, the Pallas or beloved self-conception of darkened minds"
A man may be carried on in a constant course of mortification all his days; and yet perhaps never enjoy a good day of peace and consolation.
There are two things that are suited to humble the souls of men, and they are, first, a due consideration of God, and then of themselves - of God, in His greatness, glory, holiness, power, majesty, and authority; of ourselves, in our mean, abject, and sinful condition.
Similar quotes
The mind spends most of the time lost in fantasies and illusions, reliving pleasant or unpleasant experiences and anticipating the future with eagerness or fear. While lost in such cravings or aversions, we are unaware of what is happening now, what we are doing now.
Movement is a fantastic privilege but it ultimately only has meaning if you have a home to go back to.
I'd quite like to be in Caligula's court - living in the back room somewhere and just being able to observe.
But you're dead,' said Harry. 'Oh, yes,' said Dumbledore matter-of-factly. 'Then... am I dead too?' 'Ah,' said Dumbledore, smiling still more broadly. 'That is the question, isn't it? On the whole, dear boy, I think not.
Until we give up the world manufactured by the ego, never can we enter the kingdom of heaven. None ever did, none ever will.
Cynics are - beneath it all - only idealists with awkwardly high standards.