Owning Scripture

From an email.  Seemed related to yesterday's class discussion:

A few thoughts on OWNING GOD’S WORD:
      
      The book of Hebrews has historically been referred to as the Book of Faith, and in Chapter 4, verse 12, the writer says:  “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit and of jonts and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”

    The writer goes on to say that nothing is hidden from God’s eyes; that we have a great High Priest, Jesus Christ, the Son of God; and that we should come boldly to the throne of grace and there obtain mercy and grace in time of need.

       It occurs to me that in order to incorporate this living power, we must “own it.”  Let me explain.  In the realm of music, whether instrumental or vocal, to perform correctly, one must “own” the song.  For instance, a vocalist singing to a live audience should not carry on stage a copy of the words; it would be a hindrance and a distraction.  Therefore, the song must be so committed to memory, so familiar to the singer, that he or she “owns” it.  The song can then be sung confidently anytime and any place.

       In like manner, if we are to be effective witnesses for Jesus Christ, we must be so familiar with scripture that we can share it with others without referring immediately to the Bible, as one may not always be available.  Oh, I don’t think it’s necessary to memorize every jot and tittle, but an accurate understanding of pertinent passages and what they mean is imperative.  As a singer must own a song, we as Christians must “own” scripture in such a way that it is readily available to us because of our familiarity with it.  After all, “the word of God is living and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword,”and we must proclaim it boldly.  Don’t you agree?

                                                                                                Harvill here…11-22-02