The following brief observations are among the writings of Patrick Hamilton who was burned at the stake at St. Andrews, in February, 1528; that is, over 30 years before the Reformation of 1560. He sought to preach the truth of God’s Word and the doctrines of the gospel to spiritually dark Scotland in his day. But the enemies of truth put him to death to prevent the light from exposing error and superstition. Like many other Witnesses for Christ, he still speaks as follows:—
The Nature and Office of the Law, and of the Gospel
The Law showeth us, our sin. Our condemnation: Is the Word of ire. Is the Word of despair. Is the Word of displeasure.
The Gospel showeth us, A remedy for it. Our redemption: Is the Word of grace. Is the Word of comfort. Is the Word of peace.
The Law sayeth, Pay thy debt. Thou art a sinner desperate. And thou shall die.
The Gospel sayeth, Christ hath paid it. Thy sins are forgiven thee. Be of good comfort, thou shalt be saved.
The Law sayeth, make amends for thy sin. The Father of Heaven is wrath with thee. Where is thy righteousness, goodness, and satisfaction? Thou art bound and obligate unto me, the devil, and hell.
The Gospel sayeth, Christ hath made it for thee. Christ hath pacified Him with His blood. Christ is thy righteousness, thy goodness, and satisfaction. Christ hath delivered thee from them all.”
God’s Kingdom is composed of childlike natures. The proud, self-sufficient, and self-confident are out of harmony with a spiritual society which recognises a Divine Head and is governed by Divine laws.—(Extracted).