Bible study has largely lost its popularity and centrality in the spiritual life of the believer in the widespread variety of Christian denominations. And it is no different within Adventism. Once a people of the book, yet now a people of . . .? This question remains to be answered by a new generation of believers. The profound influence of Internet, television, entertainment, has turned the attention of many from the Bible. Amidst this new cultural phenomenon, the church should not lose hope.
In order for faith to be grounded in its true foundation, Bible study must be brought back to its original role. And perhaps one way to restore the significance of Bible study in the mind of the believer is to speak of what Bible study is not. Bible study should not be considered a spiritual burden. It can be pleasant, enjoyable, and incredibly relevant in everyday life. The majority of Christians who do read their Bible on a daily basis, do so out of a sense of duty to either God, sermon preparation, etc. In many cases, they get nothing out of their Bible reading. Yet this reality can be changed.
THE GOAL
The worldwide initiative, “Revived by His Word” promoted by the General Conference and launched April 17, during the 2012 Spring Council, challenges members to read and meditate on one chapter of the Bible each day. The goal is not only to motivate members to spend more time in the Word to experience true revival and reformation but, furthermore, to hear God’s voice speaking out of the Bible every day. Those who didn’t sign online, or didn’t get the information on time, are encouraged to begin at any time and catch up by reading two chapters a day.
READ FOR QUALITY NOT QUANTITY
For some reason, most people get into their heads the idea that they must read a large amount of their Bible each day in order to be spiritual. This is simply not true. Spirituality is not based on schedules. Spirituality is based on the quality time spent with Christ through His word no matter the time of day. The best way to read the Bible is to read slowly and prayerfully. Before the Bible is opened, pray that God would speak in a special way. People often rush through the text and miss many opportunities to see details God tried to communicate in the reading. Also, keep in mind that God is not a genie in a lamp. He does not speak at our command. And sometimes it takes time to be able to hear the voice of God through the reading of Scripture. Wait for God’s guidance into a journey through His word and in time He will speak clearly. And it is here that true transformation takes place.
MEDITATE ON EACH DAILY CHAPTER
The Bible tells us to meditate on the Word (Joshua 1:8; Psalms 1:2-3). This meditation has nothing to do with having the eyes closed or to hum a single note continually. It has to do with pondering, considering, enjoying the Word of God as a baby enjoys his/her mother’s milk. Ask God to bless with a thirst for the Word and to satisfy this daily thirst in a transformative manner through the Word.
It is the meditation on the Word of God that brings the Bible alive. Without this meditation, there will be a struggle in seeing the relevance of the Scriptures in daily life. Consider “The reading and contemplation of Scripture would be regarded as an audience with the Infinite One” (Testimonies, Vol. 6, page, 393). What a privilege!
EARS OPEN
The secret to reading the Scriptures is to keep the ears open to that which has happened previously in the text read, and to think how this text speaks of God. It is His example that sets the foundation for transformation, and the way He worked in the life of many erring men and women, transforming them into warriors of faith by His grace. Fit yourself in the story. Learn from their mistakes, rejoice in their victories, and be assured that the Bible reading will never lack relevance.
You don’t have to read a lot of the Word of God for the Bible to become real to you. Each day, God will demonstrate the power and relevancy of His Word to you as you think on and meditate on what He gave you that day in your reading.
We pray that you, as a pastor, elder or local church leader will be “Revived by His Word” as well. We challenge you to promote this initiative in your congregation to motivate church members to be more committed to the Word of God.
General Conference Ministerial Association
