This book contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, doom of sinners, and happiness of believers.

Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its 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.

Herein Paradise is restored, heaven opened, and hell is disclosed.

Christ is its grand object, 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 in judgment, and remembered forever.

It involves the greatest responsibility, will reward the highest labor, and will condemn all who trifle with its sacred contents.

It offers protection for infancy, happiness for childhood, inspiration for youth, strength for maturity, assurance for old age, comfort for death and salvation and riches and glory and reward for eternity.

- Florida College Annual Lectures, 1987, pages 87-88