How Much Bible Reading Qualifies One to Comment?
The age-old question of whether a person who reads the Bible 25 times can comment more meaningfully than someone who reads it only 2 times brings us to a fascinating discussion on the nature of understanding and application in religious texts. While both individuals have engaged deeply with the Bible, the quality of their engagement and comprehension can differ greatly.
The Nature of Biblical Engagement
The Bible is a mix of truth and stories, presenting a complex tapestry of instruction, revelation, and history. The quality of one's engagement with the text often reflects their approach to reading. Is the objective to gain a deeper understanding, or is it to apply the teachings to daily life? The context and intent behind the reading can significantly influence the value of one's insights.
Legal Loopholes and Blind Followers
There are instances where readings and applications of the Bible might be distorted. Just as legal loop holes can be exploited, some might read the Bible to justify personal gains or to avoid responsibilities. The highway code book serves as a perfect analogy: it can be read to simply comply with rules or to find ways to avoid breaking them. Similarly, with the Bible, one might read it for personal gain, which can lead to misinterpretation and misuse.
Historical Context and Rejection
During the time of the apostles, many religious leaders rejected Jesus's message due to fear for their positions. Fear and misunderstanding can create a closed-mindedness that prevents the true message from being heard. This is poignantly illustrated by the warning in Acts 28:26-27.
"And now, O King Agrippa, I am myself standing before God to testify about this same way, which the followers of [Jesus] call salvation. 27 For it is not about demons that I am boasting as if I were foolish, but in Christ Jesus our Lord. 26 For this reason also the Jews attempted on that day to kill [Paul]..."
Here, we see the stark contrast between those who receive the message and those who reject it out of fear and preconceived notions. This cautionary tale underscores the importance of being open to the message and understanding it from a heart of sincerity and detachment from personal biases.
Paul's Warning: A Heart Unreceptive
Paul's message in Acts 28:26-27 is a powerful reminder of the dangers of an unreceptive heart. He warns that even if one hears and sees, if they do not understand with their heart and turn back to God, they will never be healed. This verse highlights the necessity of a sincere and open heart in engaging with the Bible.
The warning applies not only to religious leaders but also to any individual who might read the Bible. It calls for a mindset of receptivity and a willingness to change and grow. Simply going through the motions of reading the Bible, without the intent to understand and apply its teachings, is akin to reading but not seeing, and hearing but not comprehending.
Qualifications for Biblical Commentary
So, which of the two individuals in the initial scenario is better qualified to comment on the Bible? The answer lies not in the quantity of readings but in the quality of engagement. The individual who reads the Bible with a heart of receptivity, seeking understanding and application, is more likely to provide meaningful commentary. They have engaged with the text in a way that fosters a transformative experience, allowing the Bible's messages to impact their lives and perception.
It's important to recognize that the Bible is not a static text; it requires engagement and reflection to truly understand its depths. Engaging with the Bible demands honesty, humility, and a willingness to confront one's own biases and preconceptions. Those who approach the text with such an open and inquisitive mind are more likely to have valuable insights. Conversely, those who read it only for personal gain or to justify their actions, or those who reject it out of fear or misunderstanding, may provide insights that are limited in their value.
Conclusion
Engagement with the Bible, whether 25 times or 2, is meaningful only when it fosters a deeper understanding and a willingness to apply its teachings. The quality of engagement, not the quantity of readings, should determine the qualifications to comment meaningfully on the Bible. By embracing an open and humble heart, one can gain a richer and more transformative understanding of the text, making their commentary more insightful and thought-provoking.