On Reading the Bible
How do you go about reading the Bible? Some people keep a regular schedule and study a passage of scripture every day. Others of us follow the printed texts of the weekend bulletin as they are read during worship, sometimes taking the bulletin home to reread a passage or a verse that particularly spoke to us. Or does a verse or two of scripture in a devotional book or our congregation’s weekly online devotion suffice for the week?
These questions and comments aren’t meant to be accusatory or put-downs. As I reflected about reading Scriptures, I asked myself what I do to connect with God’s word. Most of the weeks when I write a devotion, I search for passages that relate to a specific subject, and am usually educated and enriched by what I find. But to sit down quietly with my Bible and read with purpose, looking for reassurance, comfort, or inspiration, is not part of my daily routine. Any “reason” for not being a regular Bible reader will sound like a lame excuse, so I just admit this is how it is with me. But why do (or how can we) view reading the Bible as a task? And how can we change that view to one of joy and gratitude for the privilege of reading and learning about God’s Word?
The Lutheran Study Bible has a number of features that make reading the Bible an experience that is both educational and inspirational. Phrases and expressions that we might otherwise skim past have well-written notes in the margin that clarify, explain, and provide context. Every book, in both the Old and New Testament, is introduced with background information, including the content and the message. (And no, this is not a commercial — I just really appreciate this book!)
I’m especially grateful for the “book within a book” about Martin Luther, how he read and understood the Bible and how he came to his “Reformation breakthrough.” Because Luther was so deeply engaged with Scripture, studying and meditating, he was open to a new understanding of the words of the apostle Paul: “He who through faith is righteous shall live.” (Romans 1:17) He no longer saw God’s righteousness as the means by which God judges us but rather as the way God justifies us, that is, puts us in right relationship with him. Through additional study, Luther found similar passages and came to recognize that in the Gospel, God freely gives his righteousness to all people. This insight has tremendous implications for how we read the Bible, how we engage with the Bible’s message, and how we live as Christians in the world.
Our weekly devotions are intended to be a source of encouragement, hope and inspiration, and to provide a sense of connection among members and friends of St. Andrew. As we continue our faith journey both as individuals and a community, we are blessed to have the gift of God’s Word to center us, guide us, and reassure us with the message of freedom and salvation through his Son, Jesus the Christ.
Your friend in Christ,
Mary Rogers