Read the Bible Publicly?
Dear Lord, I pray for wisdom for how to best honor your word. In Jesus’ name, amen.
What would it be like today if God’s holy and inspired word was read out loud in the center of the city in a public square? Would there be public outcry or praise?
Imagine being transported to the time of Ezra, the Old Testament prophet and contemporary of Nehemiah. After the wall and gates were rebuilt, all the people gathered together to hear Ezra read the Law of Moses.
Nehemiah 8:5-6 (ESV) picks up the story:
“And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people, for he was above all the people, and as he opened it all the people stood. And Ezra blessed the Lord, the great God, and all the people answered, ‘Amen, Amen,’ lifting up their hands. And they bowed their heads and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground.”
What a great testimony of God’s chosen people. Ponder their reaction upon hearing God’s word.
How will you react differently the next time you hear scripture read aloud?
Tell me what you think in the comments below.
