Staying Nourished – Part 6

As I wrap up on this wonderful topic, I am reminded of a time when I first heard this word “Exegesis” [critical explanation or interpretation of a text, especially of scripture] and to a large extent my friends and I made fun of the word but there was I believe a seriousness behind the fun we poked at the word. And discussing the term further with other like-minded brothers, it was clear to us that Biblical exposition is a must for any Church to grow and be effective especially for the sake of its members.

Biblical literacy should be strongly encouraged in our Churches, and I want to encourage members, readers to avoid being pew fodders and passive where the Word of God is concerned, but to get involved and active in a deep exposition of the Word. Watch this, it is not enough to listen to what men and women of God are saying, there needs to be research conducted also by the hearers, hence the Bible says, “They listened to the message with great eagerness, and every day they studied the Scriptures to see if what Paul said was really true.” Read Acts 17:11 (GNT). “The Jews proved more generous-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they accepted the message most eagerly and studied the scriptures every day to see if what they were now being told were true.” Read Acts 17:11 (PHILLIPS).

1. Listening to the message intently and with purpose.

2. Daily examination of the Scriptures.

And the reason the Bereans did this was for the purpose of Biblical literacy. The more they researched the Scriptures for themselves, as supposed to listening only to what “My Pastor / Paul says,” will eventually help their spiritual development. Well, you might be thinking, is this not calling for chaos; on the contrary, no. And the reason for the contrary view is, it will keep men and women of God who preach the Gospel grounded in the Word of God because they would understand their members are equally researching the Scriptures for themselves.

“Souls need to be educated, not treated as pew fodder.” Reverend Stephen Terry is the Priest in Charge of St Barnabas Church in Hove. To be a pew fodder is a choice and in some instances, some Churches encourage pew foddering because it enhances their control over members. “Beloved, for the sake of a lost and dying world, pay any price, get God’s power and set the prisoners free.” John G. Lake. God’s power is His Word!!!

Dear Lord Jesus, thank You, I am eternally grateful that I have access to the Scriptures and Your Spirit guides me and will illuminate my spirit in Jesus Name.

We write. You read. Be encouraged.