John Wesley

They Said It: Four Quotes On The Books Of Kings

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Four quotes from well-known religious figures about the Old Testament Books of I and II Kings:

Augustine of Hippo

“In the Books of Kings we see how the rise and fall of rulers is governed not by chance but by the providence of God, who exalts the humble and brings down the proud.” —Augustine, reflecting on divine sovereignty in Israel’s monarchy

John Calvin

“Kings were set before the people as mirrors, that in their obedience or rebellion the whole nation might behold the blessing of walking with God or the misery of departing from Him.” —Calvin, commenting on the moral purpose of Israel’s kingship

John Wesley

“The history of the Kings shows that no outward form of religion can preserve a nation when the heart turns from God; holiness must begin within.” —Wesley, emphasizing inward faithfulness over ritual

Matthew Henry

“These books teach us that God’s patience with His people is great, yet His justice will not sleep forever; mercy invites, but judgment warns.” —Henry, summarizing the theological rhythm of Kings

They Said It: Four Quotes On The Book Of Deuteronomy

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Here are four interesting and insightful quotes about the fifth book of the Bible, Deuteronomy.

Rabbi Jonathan Sacks

“Deuteronomy is the great book of moral and spiritual challenge, calling on each generation to see itself as part of the covenant story and to choose the way of life.”
— Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks

John Wesley

“In Deuteronomy, God gives His people a second law, not because the first failed, but to press it upon their hearts with greater earnestness and love.”
— John Wesley, Methodist founder

Christopher J.H. Wright

“Deuteronomy is a manifesto of God’s mission—revealing how a redeemed people are to live differently in a world of injustice, idolatry, and oppression.”
— Christopher J.H. Wright, Old Testament scholar

Matthew Henry

“The book of Deuteronomy renews the covenant and reminds us that God’s laws are given for our good, to keep us close to Him and safe from the snares of the world.”
— Matthew Henry, Bible commentator

Biblical Literacy: Sayings, Not Bible Verses

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Here are four common ‘old sayings’ that many folks mistakenly believe are bible verses. While these sayings may contain practical wisdom, and even reflect values taught by scripture generally, they are not inspired scripture.

“God helps those who help themselves.”

This one is commonly attributed to Benjamin Franklin (Poor Richard’s Almanack, 1736).

The Bible teaches dependence on God, not self-sufficiency (see Psalm 121:2, Proverbs 3:5–6). The phrase reflects a moral idea, but it’s not scriptural.

“Cleanliness is next to godliness.”

Popularized by John Wesley in a 1778 sermon.

While the Bible values purity of heart and spiritual cleanliness (James 4:8), it never equates physical cleanliness with godliness.

“This too shall pass.”

Likely from ancient Persian or Hebrew proverbs, but not found in Scripture.

The Bible expresses similar sentiments (e.g., 2 Corinthians 4:17–18, Psalm 30:5), yet the phrase itself never appears.

“Money is the root of all evil.”

This one is a misquotation of 1 Timothy 6:10.

What the Bible actually says: “The love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.” The difference is crucial — Scripture warns against greed, not wealth itself.