Allen-keys are sometimes referred to as hex-wrenches, in light of the six edges that grip a hexagonal recess. They’re a clever invention. I wonder if Mr Allen first experimented with lesser settings before settling on the hexagonal arrangement to give optimal torque. (Perhaps he also found that torque decreases in moving to higher numbers, and firmed on six as the magic setting.)

The Christian gospel comes with terrific torque, so that those who believe it can become firm in their faith. Says the Book with regard to the gospel promise made to Abraham: “Because God wanted to make the unchanging nature of his purpose very clear to the heirs of what was promised, he confirmed it with an oath. God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope offered to us may be greatly encouraged.”

But are there just two surfaces that can be tightened here? I can count six: (1) The fact that God said it. (2) That fact that the God who said it always tells the truth. (3) That God said it in the form of a promise. (4) That the promise included the strong word ‘surely’. (5) That God made the promise with an oath. (6) That there were two people present to give witness, namely Abraham and Isaac. Sounds like the perfect hex-wrench to me, and a gospel-torque that can keep the weakest saint from coming loose.