(I wrote this quite a time ago; forgot to put it online and now I do it.)
And here again we ought to observe that we are called to a knowledge of God: not that knowledge which, content with empty speculation, merely flits in the brain, but that which will be sound and fruitful if we duly perceive it, and if it takes root in the heart. — Institutes, 1.5.9
That we study and learn just because we are curious or want to know, is not to be recommended; even though the subject we study is about the historic faith and the truth since the objective is simply to fulfill our lust for knowledge. Likewise, the good deeds and various honorable works that we could do, if we do it just because it is a good thing to do, then we are simply seeking our lust for ethical or religious ideals. These are what Old Man does.
Such temptation is all over us; on personal level and corporate level. A simple example can be drawn from instances where futile arguments are carried out on internet. Because I find an arguable statement or a posting on the internet, because it would be good to correct that, and because it seems such action is within my reach and strength (after all, it’s just 1-click away), it is very easy for me to go ahead and engage in the discussion. This is precisely what the Old Man, the Natural Man, does; seeking good because it is good! But whatever does not proceed from faith is sin (Rom 14:23).
