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Hearing the Word of God

The New Testament was written when there were no printing presses and literacy was not for everyone, so oral communication was the means. It included reading aloud, teaching, and preaching.

“After this letter has been read to you, see that it is also read in the church of the Laodiceans and that you in turn read the letter from Laodicea.” (Colossians 4:16)

Oral communication requires listening, not just preaching. Listening is not just hearing; it is also paying attention. James expresses this several times.

“My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” (James 1:19)

“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” (James 1:22)

“And that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the Lord is your life, and he will give you many years in the land he swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.” (Deuteronomy 30:20)

“Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.” (Proverbs 1:5)

“The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice.” (Proverbs 12:15)

“Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.” (Acts 17:11)

Cross references:

When you listen to the Word, listen.

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