The Word of God
The public reading of the Scriptures is essential, and it requires practice and dedication to do it well.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the significance of reading the Word of God with clarity and reverence in public settings. He critiques the poor quality of Scripture reading in contemporary worship, arguing that it undermines the importance of the Word. Tozer insists that despite the widespread availability of the Bible, public reading remains essential and should be done with excellence to honor its sacredness. He encourages leaders in worship to develop their reading skills, as effective communication of Scripture can profoundly impact the congregation's perception of its value. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a revival of respect and skill in the public reading of the Scriptures.
Text
Of course we of this generation cannot know by firsthand experience how the Word of God was read in other times. But it would be hard to conceive of our fathers having done a poorer job than we do when it comes to the public reading of the Scriptures. Most of us read the Scriptures so badly that a good performance draws attention by its rarity. It could be argued that since everyone these days owns his own copy of the Scriptures, the need for the public reading of the Word is not as great as formerly.
If that is true, then let us not bother to read the Scriptures at all in our churches. But if we are going to read the Word publicly, then it is incumbent upon us to read it well. A mumbled, badly articulated and unintelligent reading of the Sacred Scriptures will do more than we think to give the listeners the idea that the Word is not important. We do not, however, concur in the belief that because the Word has attained such wide circulation we should not read it in our public meetings.
We should by all means read it, and we should make the reading a memorable experience for those who hear. Every man who is honored with the leadership of public worship should learn to read well. And do not imagine that anyone who can read at all can read well. Even learned men break down here. We are all familiar with those public figures who can talk fluently on almost any subject but flunk out miserably when they try to quote the Scriptures. Reading the Bible well is something not picked up overnight.
Sermon Outline
- The Importance of Public Reading of the Scriptures
- The Responsibility of Church Leaders
- The Value of Public Reading in the Church
- The Bible Should be Read in Public Meetings
- Reading Should be a Memorable Experience
Key Quotes
“A mumbled, badly articulated and unintelligent reading of the Sacred Scriptures will do more than we think to give the listeners the idea that the Word is not important.” — A.W. Tozer
“Reading the Bible well is something not picked up overnight.” — A.W. Tozer
“Even learned men break down here.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Make an effort to practice reading the Scriptures well so that it becomes a memorable experience for others.
- Recognize that reading the Bible well is a skill that takes time and practice to develop.
- Take responsibility for learning to read the Scriptures well as a church leader.