Truth and Technique
“The important thing is that in every way, . . . Christ is preached.” Phil. 1:18. For this reason the Apostle Paul “rejoiced.” He did so even though some who preached did so hoping to “to stir up trouble” for Paul while he was in prison. Paul’s underlying principle transcends his circumstances: we should rejoice in the availability of means – human and otherwise – that enable Christian discipleship. Who and what helps you do this?
First, think about people. Some have taught you; others still do. Some encourage you or otherwise empower your continued walk as a Christian. Some work to hold together our faith community or to improve or to maintain the place where we gather. Do you rejoice in their efforts? When have you expressed your gratitude to them?
Second, reflect on the multiple tools available to us for Bible study. For centuries, only a privileged few had access to Bibles (and when churches had them, they often chained them as items of great value to prevent their theft, as shown here). During these ages, many people lacked the skills needed to read the Bible, especially when – as often - the text had not been translated into their daily language. By contrast, today, we have easy access to the Bible. You probably own one (or more) of your own (and if you don’t, let me know and we’ll provide one). You can and should read the Bible for yourself regularly.
And we can access the Bible in ways that 50 years ago would have been unimaginable. Many internet websites provide the Bible’s text in searchable form in multiple languages and translations, including www.biblegateway.com. The texts used in our auditorium worship and sermon are identified and accessible at lectionary.library.vanderbilt.edu. Do you have a Bible text on your phone or tablet? If not, download and use a mobile app for this, such as YouVersion, a popular, free one with many languages and translations.
Our congregation also uses electronic communications to foster worship and study (e.g., via Zoom), to knit us together as a faith community (by email and text message), and to proclaim the gospel and encourage prayer (via our website). In early March we expect to make available an app with our congregation’s news, daily Bible readings, sermon podcasts and Elders’ messages (in both English and Spanish). With the app, we’ll also enable giving and messaging, including on small groups. Watch the Alert for details about using this app! A preview of its opening screen accompanies this message.
On February 25, the Reading Circle will discuss John Dyer’s book, People of the Screen: How Evangelicals Created the Digital Bible and How it Shapes Their Reading of Scripture (2022). The book traces Christians’ attitudes toward and interaction with changing technologies and focuses especially on how in recent years we have relied on computers (whether those on our desks or in our pockets, e.g., as phones) to study the Bible and experience its spiritually transformative power. Join us for this discussion!
Lloyd