"The Bible was written to be read aloud and heard. Hearing
is a more powerful way of receiving information than reading, because while we
can close our eyes and completely shut out information that comes through our
eyes, we cannot close our ears. If we are in a room where someone is speaking,
we cannot stop the sound from coming into our ears. Also, in order to listen to
someone, we have to yield a bit of authority to him or her, paying attention to
what is said. Reading, on the other hand, leaves us much more in control. Thus,
while at a theoretical level the Bible has supreme authority whether weave
reading it silently or hearing it read to us, yet existentially the Bible comes
with more authority when it is read. Moreover, silent reading isolates us from
others, while conversation (listening back and forth) or gathering to hear
someone speak or read to us, creates community. God is interested in our
individual discipleship, but for the most part, that discipleship takes place
in community, and God is building His Church. Thus, hearing is very important,
and personal reading is no substitute for it." (James B. Jordan)
No comments:
Post a Comment