Reading Scripture

Jesus answered them, “You are wrong, because you know neither the scriptures nor the power of God. For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven. And as for the resurrection of the dead, have you not read what was said to you by God, ‘I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’? He is not God of the dead, but of the living.”And when the crowd heard it, they were astonished at his teaching. Matthew 22:29–33 (RSV)

Every Christian needs to read Scripture regularly and thoughtfully. We are to immerse ourselves in the Word so the Holy Spirit might open our hearts and minds to the message of mercy and grace they contain.

Reading Scripture well is no small matter, for we do not come to it a blank slate. We come with our notions and preconceptions of what we think Scripture says. All too often, such notions and ideas are as wrong as a person could make.

We are blessed to have the words of Jesus as He comments on the Scriptures. His word is trustworthy, for He is the Word made flesh. As Jesus teaches about Scripture, we know we can rely upon his teaching. We may not comprehend it at first, but the Holy Spirit will encourage our growth in the faith.