Keeping the Message of the Bible Central
The Bible should be the central focus of Christian worship and the source of guidance and spiritual nourishment for believers.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the centrality of the Bible in Christian worship, asserting that it is the most important book for believers and should hold a place of honor in public worship. He contrasts the architectural focus of different churches, noting that while ritualistic churches center around the altar, Protestant churches focus on the pulpit where the Bible resides. Tozer argues that the Bible should be the sole source of spiritual nourishment during communion, as it provides light and sustenance in a dark world. He highlights the enduring nature of the pulpit Bible, which remains a constant source of truth despite the changing presence of preachers. Ultimately, the effectiveness of a minister is measured by their ability to expound the Scriptures and share its profound truths with the congregation.
Text
The Bible is the most important book in the world, and for Christians it is just about the only book--certainly the only book that should claim the place of honor in the public worship of God. We are, we trust, duly grateful for every good spiritual book written since the close of the New Testament canon. We do not undervalue the devotional book or the carefully prepared theological work, but when saints meet in communion there should be but one book, the Bible. The place given to the Scriptures by the different churches may be learned from the very architecture of the building in which their congregations gather.
The ritualistic church builds itself around the altar.
Toward that altar all eyes are directed and around that altar various and sundry choirs are ranged, to chant or respond or sing as the occasion may demand. The typical Protestant church is quite different. Its center of interest is the pulpit, and upon that pulpit rests a copy of the Bible printed in the language of the people. Preachers may come and preachers may go, but that old pulpit Bible remains. There it lies while generations pass, a source of light in the world's darkness, a fountain of pure water in the world's barren desert. And that minister is considered the best who can expound its sweet mysteries.
Lack of oratorical gifts will be forgiven if the man of God will but open the Book and give his hearers to eat of the heavenly manna.
Sermon Outline
- The Importance of the Bible
- The Bible is the most important book in the world
- It is the only book that should claim the place of honor in public worship
Key Quotes
“The Bible is the most important book in the world, and for Christians it is just about the only book--certainly the only book that should claim the place of honor in the public worship of God.” — A.W. Tozer
“That old pulpit Bible remains while generations pass, a source of light in the world's darkness, a fountain of pure water in the world's barren desert.” — A.W. Tozer
“Lack of oratorical gifts will be forgiven if the man of God will but open the Book and give his hearers to eat of the heavenly manna.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Prioritize the Bible as the central focus of your personal spiritual life and church worship.
- Seek out preachers who can expound the Bible in a way that nourishes your soul.
- Make the Bible the foundation of your faith and spiritual growth.