and systems of interpretation. At the same time he becomes more fully qualified to maintain and defend the faith once delivered to the saints. It was the distinguishing advantage of the Jewish people that they were entrusted with the oracles of God (Rom. 3:1, 2). But during the long period between Moses and the Babylonian captivity they showed little appreciation of their heavenly treasure. The law was ignored, the prophets were persecuted, the people turned to idolatry, and the penalty