Read: Psalm 119:129-136
The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple. (v. 130)
Children are skilled at selective listening, pretending not to hear their parents’ instruction. Yet so are we. Despite some of our claims not to understand, the Bible’s central story is clear. However, in the Middle Ages the Bible was not yet translated into languages people could read, plus few could have read it anyway. People also felt distant from God’s voice due to the church emphasis on the utter mystery of Scripture, supposedly requiring spiritual professionals to interpret it.
The Reformers instead believed in the clarity of God’s Word. Why? Because God is a good communicator! Past and present wisdom helps guide us, but all should be able to read Scripture for themselves. Scholarship is important—we should read the Bible in view of its literary, historical, and theological context—but we do not need special clergy or miraculous gifts to read and understand Scripture. Martin Luther noted, “The Holy Spirit is the simplest writer and advisor in heaven and on earth.”
Jesus used common examples and parables and spoke to children. He often assumed that his simple yet challenging words should be understood: “Why is my language not clear to you?” (John 8:43 NIV). God is speaking. Are you personally and directly listening to his Word in Scripture? Only when God’s people faithfully hear and respond to his Word will the church reform and the world transform.
As you pray, listen to God. Read the passage again and reflect on it. Thank God for the gifts of the Holy Spirit and the Bible.
Michael Andres is a professor of religion at Northwestern College. He first met his wife Joan in a History of the Reformation class at Arizona State University.
