Meaning: The quote "Let us search into the records of Holy Writ, if out of this their great charter, there be not a seal grant of a lesser, though like privilege, and this by virtue of Christ, in that we have the honour to be accounted Abraham's seed as truly as they." is a statement by Thomas Goodwin, a prominent clergyman and theologian in the 17th century. Goodwin was a leading figure in the Puritan movement and his writings and sermons have had a significant impact on Christian theology and religious thought.

In this quote, Goodwin is urging his audience to delve into the scriptures, specifically the "records of Holy Writ," or the Bible, to explore and uncover the privileges and blessings that are granted to believers by virtue of their faith in Christ. He refers to these privileges as a "seal grant of a lesser, though like privilege," suggesting that while the privileges may be perceived as lesser in comparison to others, they are similar in nature and are bestowed upon believers through the authority of Christ.

Goodwin's reference to "the honour to be accounted Abraham's seed as truly as they" alludes to the concept of spiritual lineage and inheritance. In the biblical narrative, Abraham is revered as the father of the faith, and his descendants are seen as the beneficiaries of God's promises. Goodwin is asserting that believers in Christ are also included in this lineage and are entitled to the same privileges and blessings as the descendants of Abraham.

To fully understand the significance of this quote, it is important to consider the historical and theological context in which Goodwin was writing. During the 17th century, England was undergoing significant religious and political upheaval, with the Puritans seeking to reform the Church of England and promote a more personal and experiential form of Christianity. Goodwin's writings reflect the Puritan emphasis on the authority of scripture and the believer's direct relationship with God.

The concept of spiritual inheritance and privilege was a central theme in Puritan theology. Goodwin and other Puritan theologians emphasized the idea of the "covenant of grace," which held that believers were recipients of God's unmerited favor and were included in a covenant relationship with Him. This covenantal framework was used to interpret biblical promises and to affirm the believer's status as heirs to God's blessings.

Goodwin's exhortation to "search into the records of Holy Writ" reflects the Puritan commitment to studying and interpreting the scriptures as the ultimate authority for faith and practice. The Puritans placed great emphasis on the careful examination of biblical texts, seeking to uncover the deeper spiritual truths and promises contained within them. Goodwin's call to explore the "great charter" of the scriptures underscores the belief that the Bible contains a rich treasury of spiritual privileges and blessings for believers.

In conclusion, Thomas Goodwin's quote encapsulates the Puritan emphasis on the privileges and blessings that believers receive through their faith in Christ. It reflects his exhortation to delve into the scriptures to uncover the spiritual inheritance and privileges that are granted to believers as part of their relationship with God. Goodwin's words continue to resonate with those who seek to explore the depths of their faith and to understand the profound significance of their identity as heirs of God's promises.