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  READING THE HOLY SCRIPTURE
  by Thomas a Kempis
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Summary: To profit from reading the Holy Scriptures, approach with
humility, simplicity, and faith, and prioritize truth over eloquence.

Topics: "Scripture Reading", "Spiritual Humility"
Scripture References: Psalm 119:160, Proverbs 2:1, 1 Corinthians 1:25, Colossians 3:16, 2 Timothy 3:16

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DESCRIPTION
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Thomas a Kempis emphasizes the importance of seeking truth rather than
eloquence when reading the Holy Scriptures, focusing on understanding
the spirit in which each part was written to gain profit over polished
diction. He encourages reading both simple and profound books with equal
willingness, not being swayed by the authority of the writer but by the
love of simple truth, as the truth of the Lord endures forever. Kempis
warns against letting curiosity impede the reading of Scriptures by
overanalyzing instead of reading with humility, simplicity, and faith,
without seeking a reputation for being learned.

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CONTENT
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TRUTH, not eloquence, is to be sought in reading the Holy Scriptures;
and every part must be read in the spirit in which it was written. For
in the Scriptures we ought to seek profit rather than polished diction.

Likewise we ought to read simple and devout books as willingly as
learned and profound ones. We ought not to be swayed by the authority of
the writer, whether he be a great literary light or an insignificant
person, but by the love of simple truth. We ought not to ask who is
speaking, but mark what is said. Men pass away, but the truth of the
Lord remains forever. God speaks to us in many ways without regard for
persons.

Our curiosity often impedes our reading of the Scriptures, when we wish
to understand and mull over what we ought simply to read and pass by.

If you would profit from it, therefore, read with humility, simplicity,
and faith, and never seek a reputation for being learned. Seek willingly
and listen attentively to the words of the saints; do not be displeased
with the sayings of the ancients, for they were not made without
purpose.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/thomas-a-kempis/reading-the-holy-scripture/
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