by Stephen Surgener

Created on: October 29, 2007

Though it is true that a fundamental staple of Christian life is regular study of God's word, we cannot loose site of the fact most people we come across, have spent little to no time studying the Bible. Sadly, the fact remains just as applicable within the church, as it is on the job, or at the grocery store. Yet, it's not so astounding when you consider the Bible has been one of the best selling, but least read books in American history. The true tragedy of this paradox is not found within simple ignorance of scriptures, but in the misrepresentation thereof.

As Christians, the patterns we are to follow have been set forth within God's word. In staying true to this belief, while addressing this issue, not only are we bound to Biblical truth, but are indeed guided by it. If we look for scriptural residence of verbal, Biblical instruction, we could easily begin at the beginning, in Genesis. Here, we find God Himself, walking in the garden teaching and instructing both Adam and Eve. King Solomon of the Israelites, was considered the wisest man to have ever lived, and often spoke to the Israel nation. An account of such a sermon is found in Ecclesiastes as a father writes his son of the wisdom in Solomons words. And in the New Testament, we find book after book, of letters Paul wrote to the churches.

What do all these accounts of teachers have to do with todays Christian, and the sad, but true statement of Biblical illiteracy found within our culture? The most poignant example can be found in Acts chapter two. The disciples of Christ had gathered together, awaiting the Holy Spirit, just as Jesus had instructed. Upon receiving the empowerment of the Spirit, they stepped out into the streets, preaching with a God given authority, and understanding of His word. This single event marked the birth of the church. It was in fact the spoken word that motivated the disciples to follow Christ. It was the spoken word that gave birth to the modern church. It was the spoken word the motivated, and refined the continuation of that church.

It is undeniable we live in a Biblically illiterate culture. Even more undeniable is the evidence of Christians failing to follow the guidelines set before them. A fundamental staple of a Christian life is regular study of God's word, but not simply for self improvement, or personal awareness. The Bible teaches us that it is by the spoken word that lives are changed. Let us then equip ourselves with the word of God, and go out into the world, making disciples of men and women. Let us take hold of our right to be teachers, and with God given authority, spread the good news.

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