Preaching & Teaching Scripture

Bible reading: Nehemiah 8:1-12
Focus verse: "So the people went away to eat and drink at a festive meal, to share gifts of food, and to celebrate with great joy because they had heard God’s words and understood them."  Nehemiah 8:12

The people understood the Scriptures as Ezra read them.  God opened their ears and eyes to understanding.

Jesus wants us to know the scriptures.  He rebuked ministers for not knowing the scriptures in Matthew 12:3-5, 19:4, 21:42 and 22:31, where He says, "Have you not read?" and "Did you not read in the scriptures"  When teaching the Word of God, it is important that you understand it's meaning.  There are scriptures, that when taken out of context, can have a different meaning.  As you read God's Word, it is important to understand the meaning of the scriptures in the entire book, before deciding what one verse means.  It is a common mistake.

As a preacher and teacher, you must be sure of what you say before you say it.  We are judged more than those who do not teach God's Word.  Go to God in all humility and ask Him to allow the Holy Spirit to give understanding as you read the Bible.  We do not teach merely our own ideas, but teach the truth of God's Word.

It is better to say, "I don't know" to a follower of Christ than to give an answer that is not correct.

~Page Johnson
Interlocking Ministries