Meaning: The quote "But the law of God came from heaven indeed. God wrote it with his finger, it is the fountain of all wisdom, and therefore shall it continue for ever, and never have an end" by John Jewel, a clergyman, reflects the belief in the divine origin and eternal significance of the law of God. John Jewel was an influential figure in the English Reformation, and his writings often emphasized the authority of scripture and the importance of adhering to God's law.

In this quote, Jewel expresses the idea that the law of God is not a human invention but rather a divine revelation. By stating that "the law of God came from heaven indeed," Jewel asserts the heavenly origin of the law, emphasizing its transcendent and immutable nature. The reference to God writing the law with his finger alludes to the biblical account of the Ten Commandments being inscribed by God on stone tablets, as described in the book of Exodus. This imagery serves to underscore the sacred and authoritative nature of the law.

Furthermore, Jewel describes the law of God as "the fountain of all wisdom," highlighting its role as the ultimate source of divine guidance and moral insight. This characterization aligns with the traditional understanding of the law as a moral compass that provides principles for righteous living and ethical conduct. By portraying the law in this manner, Jewel emphasizes its inherent wisdom and the profound significance it holds for those who seek to live in accordance with God's will.

The final part of the quote asserts the everlasting nature of the law, declaring that it "shall continue forever, and never have an end." This statement reflects the belief in the enduring relevance and applicability of God's law across time and generations. It conveys the idea that the principles and precepts contained within the law are not subject to obsolescence or expiration but remain eternally valid and binding.

In the context of the Protestant Reformation, Jewel's affirmation of the divine origin and perpetual validity of the law of God served to underscore the Protestant emphasis on scripture as the ultimate authority in matters of faith and practice. During a period of religious upheaval and theological debate, the idea of the law as an unchanging and timeless expression of God's will provided a stabilizing and grounding force for many reformers and their followers.

Jewel's words also resonate with broader theological themes concerning the nature of God's law within Christian thought. The belief in the moral and spiritual significance of the divine law has been a central tenet of Judeo-Christian tradition, and Jewel's quote reflects the enduring theological conviction that the law of God serves as a foundational guide for human conduct and a reflection of God's righteous character.

In conclusion, John Jewel's quote encapsulates the belief in the heavenly origin, wisdom, and eternal relevance of the law of God. It reflects the enduring theological significance of the divine law within Christian thought and underscores the foundational role it plays in guiding moral and ethical behavior. By affirming the divine authorship and timeless nature of the law, Jewel's words convey a profound sense of reverence and respect for the teachings and principles contained within the scriptures.