Since becoming a Christian 45 years ago, I’ve lost count of the number of preachers who have emphasized the importance of reading the Word (I’m one of those preachers). It’s good counsel. I’ve read the Bible from cover to cover many times, and as a result, I have come to love the Lord more deeply, know Him more fully, and obey Him more gladly.
Surprisingly, the Bible emphasizes hearing, not reading the Scriptures. From the biblical perspective, it’s not the eye gate; it’s the ear gate through which we’re primarily invited to engage with the Word. The emphasis in both the Old and New Testaments is that God has spoken many times and in many ways (cf. Hebrews 1:1) and that we should “listen” and “hear” God’s Word (cf. Proverbs 4:20-22, Luke 11:28, Romans 10:17).
An underlying reason why we may be more inclined to read the Bible could be individualism. Reading can be done privately, exclusively, and independently. It can be done in bed, on the bus, in the garden, or in the gazebo. All we need is the text (printed or online), reading glasses (75% of adults), and we’re good to go.
Listening to the Bible isn’t as easy as reading it because it requires two or more people. We need to be connected relationally to hear God’s Word – it can never be a solo affair. Someone has to read aloud for someone to hear. The moment this occurs, the process becomes more complex. For, unlike reading, listening requires dependence, patience and humility.
Christian faith occurs in the context of community. Because we’re in a relationship with God and others, we should make a concerted effort to create opportunities for public reading and listening to Scripture. Communal auditory engagement with the Bible shouldn’t play second fiddle to a private reading of the Bible. “Turn your ear to my words,” says the Lord (cf. Proverbs 4:20).
Which begs a question: You may be reading the Word – but are you hearing it?
[Note: When the Scriptures mention the Bible being read, it’s usually in the context of the community listening and hearing the Word, e.g. 2 Kings 22-23, Acts 15:21, 1 Thessalonians 5:27, 1 Timothy 4:13]
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Summary
Hearing the Word. The Bible stresses the significance of hearing God’s Word over reading it, as the Scriptures often highlight the act of listening. While reading is a private, individual activity, hearing Scripture requires relational connection and shared effort, making it more complex. The author calls for communal engagement with God’s Word, encouraging believers to not only read but also hear the Bible in the context of community.
© Scripture Union Canada
