Reading Scripture Well

Reading Scripture is a pillar of the Christian faith. If we are to follow Jesus, we will only come to know Him more fully for who He is by reading Scripture. The Old and New Testaments are foundational for a deepening faith and cultivated heart relationship with God.

Whether you struggle with reading Scripture or read it each day, I hope what follows will help you read Scripture well.

I want to offer a model of how to read Scripture well.

I believe there are two components we need to consider. The first is our approach and attitude when reading Scripture. The second is our aim or goal when reading Scripture.

When we approach Scripture, our attitude needs to be of a learner, someone who is humble, seeking to "be under" (understand) the Scriptures. We then can approach the Author of Scripture (the Holy Spirit), asking Him to illuminate the Word to us. This opens the door for God to respond to the humbled. I believe this posture creates a space for the Holy Spirit to bring deep understanding and revelation of His Word.

[for a Scripture references, please click Luke 18:38 & Luke 24:25]

The second component is our aim or goal when reading Scripture. I want to offer the idea that the aim and goal when reading Scripture is to be formed and transformed by the Scriptures. Instead of us seeking to master the Scriptures, we seek for the Scriptures to master us (Seized by Truth, Green, 157). Transformation takes place when the Holy Spirit and Word of God collide.

Practically, how can we do this? Here are some thoughts to help you read Scripture well.

Pray: Before you starting reading Scripture, slow down and pray a simple prayer. "Holy Spirit, I ask that you reveal your Word to me."

Example 1: After you pray, wait a moment in silence before you begin to read. And as you read, read with the Holy Spirit. Be attentive to a word, phrase or idea that may stick out to you. Then spend time there reflecting and talking with God about what stuck out. The key is to slow down and read slowly.

Example 2: Read a small sections of Scripture, maybe 1-5 verses. You can practice soaking. By soaking I mean allowing just a couple verses of Scripture to wash over you. Read them out loud. Focus on small parts or words that are emphasized in your reading. Ask God questions about the Scripture. Then wait in silence for Him to illuminate the Word. The key is to slow down and read slowly.

Example 3: Consider printing out a section of Scripture and "dissecting" the passage. The key is to slow down and read slowly. See this example:

There are many other ways to read Scripture. But I hope these attitudes, aims and examples assist you in your pursuit of God through His Word.



Jesus, would we seek to humble ourselves before you and be transformed by your Word. Amen.





Recommended readings to grow in reading Scripture well: 

• Seized by Truth: Reading the Bible as Scripture, Joel Green. 
•  Chapters 1 & 2