Here is, 1. The great use for which the word of God was intended, to
give light, that is, to give understanding, to give us to understand
that which will be of use to us in our travels through this world; and
it is the outward and ordinary means by which the Spirit of God
enlightens the understanding of all that are sanctified. God's
testimonies are not only wonderful for the greatness of them, but
useful, as a light in a dark place. 2. Its efficacy for this purpose.
It admirably answers the end; for, (1.) Even the entrance of God's word
gives light. If we begin at the beginning, and take it before us, we
shall find that the very first verses of the Bible give us surprising
and yet satisfying discoveries of the origin of the universe, about
which, without that, the world is utterly in the dark. As soon as the
word of God enters into us, and has a place in us, it enlightens us; we
find we begin to see when we begin to study the word of God. The very
first principles of the oracles of God, the plainest truths, the milk
appointed for the babes, bring a great light into the soul, much more
will the soul be illuminated by the sublime mysteries that are found
there. "The exposition or explication of thy word gives light;" then it
is most profitable when ministers do their part in giving the sense,
Neh. viii. 8. Some understand it of the New Testament, which is the
opening or unfolding of the Old, which would give light concerning life
and immortality. (2.) It would give understanding even to the simple,
to the weakest capacities; for it shows us a way to heaven so plain
that the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein.