The Public Reading of Scriptures
Why Insist on the Public Reading of the Bible?
Revelation 1:3 – “Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.”
Throughout history, whenever God’s people have faced critical moments of decision—times when they had to choose whether to remain faithful to the Living God—there has been a renewed interest in the public reading of Scripture. God has recognized this act as a public declaration of allegiance to Him.
The Public Reading of the Bible as a Statement of Identity
1. Self-Definition and Commitment
Joshua 8:34 – “Afterward, Joshua read all the words of the law—the blessings and the curses—just as it is written in the Book of the Law.”
When Joshua read the Law publicly, it was more than a mere ritual—it was a declaration. It signified that the people of Israel had chosen to belong to God and to honor His precepts in their community.
Why It Still Matters Today
Public reading of Scripture reinforces our identity as God’s people.
It reminds us of God’s truth in an age of confusion.
It is an act of corporate commitment to follow God’s ways.
Just as in Joshua’s time, when we prioritize God’s Word in public reading and hearing, we affirm: “We belong to the God whose precepts are honored among us.”
