Every one, therefore, must make use of elements and foundations of this sort, according to the precept, “Enlighten yourselves with the light of knowledge,” if he would desire to form a connected series and body of truths agreeably to the reason of all these things, that by clear and necessary statements he may ascertain the truth regarding each individual topic, and form, as we have said, one body of doctrine, by means of illustrations and arguments—either those which he has discovered in holy Scripture, or which he has deduced by closely tracing out the consequences and following a correct method. (From the preface)

Knowledge consists of clear statements that coherently describe reality. These statements are derived from what we discern in scripture and other texts and what we deduce from observation and experience. Our knowledge is clarifed and advanced by means of illustrations and arguments in conversation with one another. Our knowledge is limited and fallible, but through self-critical, disciplined discussion with others we may ascertain the truth.