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Public Reading of the Scriptures

“Welcome to the Public Scripture Reading app! Public Scripture Reading brings the Church back to the practice of reading and listening in community.

Community Bible reading was fundamental to the lives of God’s people in the Old and New Testaments. Public readings of scriptures served as acts of memory and identity formation. This practice is found throughout the Bible, from the reading of the Law in the days of Moses to the reforms of the righteous King Josiah and leaders such as Ezra, who brought revival to the people of Israel.

In Jesus' time, reading the Law and the Prophets aloud in synagogues was a central part of Jewish life. The early Christians maintained this tradition and the letters of the Apostle Paul were read aloud during their meetings. This practice was so important to Paul that in 1 Timothy 4:13 he instructs everyone to “…dedicate themselves to the public reading of the Scriptures, to preaching, and to teaching.”

Now you can share this practice with your own communities. As God's people, the word of God is our food. Meeting regularly to read, listen diligently, know and love the word of God is as simple as sharing a good meal. May your community grow in the knowledge and love of God and be equipped to participate in His work! Thank you for being part of this movement!”