THE PUBLIC READING OF HOLY SCRIPTURE

What the Apostle John says concerning his writings is equally true of the entire Word of God -"Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy" (Rev. 1:3). In the temple worship of the Old Testament a prominent place was given to the public reading of the Word of God. This custom was carried on during the days of our Lord's earthly ministry, and in the early church. Whenever the church of God has been strong and well instructed in gospel doctrine, the Word of God has been properly exalted. In this place, the public reading of the Word is a regular, fundamental part of all our worship services. I do not consider even the preaching of the gospel to be more important than reading the Word of God. It is not what I say about the Scriptures, but the Scriptures themselves which God has inspired. By making the public reading of Scripture a part of our worship services, it is our desire to publicly demonstrate our reverence for and submission to the Word of God. "Thus saith the Lord," is our only rule of faith and practice. As we read the Word together, let us be willing to hear and ready to obey.