Lost in Translation: Of Publick Reading of the Holy Scriptures
For Lost in Translation, I take a document written in ye old tymey English and put it into modern terms. More or less. Today’s subject is from the Directory for the publick (translated public) worship of God.
Of Publick Reading of the Holy Scriptures
READING of the word in the congregation, being part of the publick worship of God, (wherein .i.we; acknowledge our dependence upon him, and subjection to him,) and one mean sanctified by him for the edifying of his people, is to be performed by the pastors and teachers.
Reading the Bible publicly is a part of worship. By reading God’s Word in our worship services we’re demonstrating that we are completely reliant on His revelation (found in His Word) for our lives. We also show the Scriptures to be authoritative by making it a part of the worship service. ”one mean sanctified” is another way of saying that this is a method that God has shown as being helpful for the wisdom of the congregation. The public reading of God’s word has been practiced throughout church history, in the Old Testament and New (Nehemiah 8:1-8, Luke 4:16-19)
Pastors are good to read and so are teachers. It sounds cute when little kids recite memory work. Not really appropriate for worship, though.
Howbeit, such as intend the ministry, may occasionally both read the word, and exercise their gift in preaching in the congregation, if allowed by the presbytery thereunto.
Interns are allowed to read Scriptures to the congregation. Read more
