Why do we read scriptures publicly every Sunday, besides preaching and teaching?
Paul instructs Timothy, “Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching” (1 Tim 4:13).
Why is the public reading of scripture important?
The first occurrence of the public reading of scripture is found in Exodus 24:7. God reminded the Israelites that they were once slaves in Egypt. Now they are His people.
So scripture reminds us that once we were slaves of sin and Satan. Now we are God’s children.
Secondly, public reading of scripture is the opportunity to exercise our purpose as a priesthood of all believers. Ezra the priest read from the Law before the assembly of both men and women. And all the people were attentive to the reading from the Book of the Law (Nehemiah 8:2-3)
Reading scripture is easy enough, and there is power when we are attentive to the words being read. When we read scripture before our sermon, it ensures that we listen and prepare our hearts for the preaching of God’s word.
Lastly, Jesus set us an example as our High Priest in reading scripture in the temple.
“And He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as was His custom, He went to the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and He stood up to read” (Luke 4:16).
Reading scripture is- an ancient practice,
- an opportunity to exercise our purpose as priests,
- an example set by Jesus,
- an instruction from God.
May I encourage all of us to actively participate in reading scripture publicly every Sunday.
Surely God will bless us when we are attentive to His word.
Grace & Peace,
Deacon Alvin Fu
