How can church leaders ensure their congregation is well-versed in Scripture? Scripture Focus 2 Chronicles 17:9: “They taught throughout Judah, having with them the Book of the Law of the LORD; they went throughout the towns of Judah and taught the people.” Key Observations from the Verse • Teaching was deliberate: “they taught.” • Scripture was central: “the Book of the Law of the LORD.” • Outreach was broad: “throughout the towns.” • Multiple leaders were involved (vv. 7–8 list officials, Levites, priests). • The nation was strengthened as a result (vv. 10–12). Timeless Principles for Leaders • Keep the Word in hand and in view. • Mobilize a trained teaching team. • Bring Scripture to people where they are. • Cover the whole counsel, not just favorite topics. • Model obedience to what is taught. Practical Ways to Embed Scripture in Congregational Life 1. Whole-Bible preaching plan—Acts 20:27. 2. Home-based study groups led by elders—Ezra 7:10. 3. Year-long reading schedule with weekly summaries. 4. Family discipleship helps—Deut 6:6-9. 5. Scripture-rich worship: public readings, Psalm-based songs—1 Tim 4:13. 6. Quarterly “How to Study the Bible” workshops—2 Tim 3:16-17. 7. One-on-one mentoring pairs reading through books together. 8. Daily verse texts, podcast devotionals, and archived sermons. 9. Curriculum map reviewed by leaders to ensure balanced doctrine. 10. Neighborhood Bible tables, prison and nursing-home studies—taking the Word “throughout the towns.” Complementary Scriptures Nehemiah 8:8; Colossians 3:16; Psalm 119:130; 2 Timothy 4:2. Expected Outcome When leaders carry the Book, teach it widely, and equip others to do the same, the congregation shifts from occasional exposure to Scripture to a culture where the Word is known, loved, and lived every day. |
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