Reading the Holy Scripture
To profit from reading the Holy Scriptures, approach with humility, simplicity, and faith, and prioritize truth over eloquence.
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.
Text
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.
Sermon Outline
- Seeking Truth in Scripture
- Approaching Scripture with Humility
- Avoiding Barriers to Understanding
- Don't let curiosity hinder your reading
- Read with simplicity and faith
Key Quotes
“Men pass away, but the truth of the Lord remains forever.” — Thomas a Kempis
“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.” — Thomas a Kempis
Application Points
- Read the Scriptures with humility and a willingness to learn, rather than seeking to impress others.
- Prioritize the message of the Scripture over the author's reputation or eloquence.
- Seek to understand and apply the truth of the Scripture in your life, rather than getting bogged down in details.