The Bread of Their Souls

The following is an excerpt from Christologia: Learning About Christ, by John Owen, (1616 – 24 August 1683):

“Unto them that believe unto the saving of the soul he [Jesus Christ] is, he always hath been, precious – the sun, the rock, the life, the bread of their souls – everything that is good, useful, amiable, desirable, here or unto eternity. In, from, and by him, is all their spiritual and eternal life, light, power, growth, consolation, and joy here; with everlasting salvation hereafter…By him are they brought into the nearest cognation, alliance, and friendship with God, the firmest union unto him, and the most holy communion with him, that our finite natures are capable of, and so conducted unto the eternal enjoyment of him.”

In writing of disciples of Jesus Christ, Christian believers, Owen continues:

“On these and the like accounts [contained in the Scriptures], the principal design of their whole lives unto whom he is thus precious, is to acquaint themselves with him – the mystery of the wisdom, grace, and love of God, in his person and mediation, as revealed to us in the Scripture, which is life eternal.”

A bit later Owen continues:

“In these things consist the soul, life, power, beauty, and efficacy of the Christian religion; without which, whatever outward, whatever outward ornaments may be put upon its exercise, it is but a lifeless carcass.” (Italics mine). Owen then proceeds to quote Philippians 3:8 – 12.

Is Jesus Christ the bread of our souls?

Do our churches live by Christ? Or are we doing just fine without Him?

Is Christ the bread of my soul?

What about your soul?