They went into Capernaum, and immediately on the Sabbath day he entered into the synagogue and taught. They were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as having authority, and not as the scribes.
–Mark 1:21-22
You wouldn’t try to take a math final without studying.
And it wouldn’t make sense to sit down to take the ACT or SAT without first taking a few practice tests. Nor would someone apply for a job as a nurse without having gone to nursing school.
Of course, we wouldn’t do these things without being prepared. We know being prepared and qualified is essential for doing things correctly.
So why, then, when it comes to the crucial element in life, our salvation, do many people not see the need or take the time to be prepared to share God’s Word with others?
I’m not saying you have to know each word by heart. I’m not even saying you have to be able to tell someone where particular verses are found (i.e., book, chapter, and verse).
But the Bible is God’s Word — and we need to know what it says. As we read and study our Bible, God’s message of love and grace comes through. Then, when we are talking to someone, we can say with authority, “The Bible says we should….”
And then say, “Give me a minute, and I’ll find the verses that talk about that.”
Reflection
What must I do to thoroughly know the Bible if I hope to teach it as Jesus did it in the synagogue?
Prayer
Dear Loving God, I want to promise to read and study Your Word each day. Help me keep that promise. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.