How does Luke 10:26 encourage personal engagement with Scripture for understanding God's law? Scripture Focus “Jesus replied, ‘What is written in the Law? How do you read it?’” – Luke 10:26 Key Observations from Luke 10:26 • Jesus treats the Law as an authoritative, unerring text that speaks for itself. • He directs attention to what is “written,” underscoring Scripture’s sufficiency. • He immediately adds, “How do you read it?” inviting personal, thoughtful interaction. • The question shifts responsibility from experts to every believer—Scripture is not distant; it is meant to be read and understood personally. Why Jesus Points Back to the Written Word • Scripture is the final standard for knowing God’s will (Psalm 19:7–8; 2 Timothy 3:16–17). • Written revelation guards against shifting cultural opinions (Isaiah 40:8). • By asking the lawyer to read the Law for himself, Jesus models that God’s Word is clear and accessible to those who genuinely seek. Implications for Our Personal Engagement • Personal responsibility: each believer must open the Bible, not rely solely on secondary voices (Acts 17:11). • Confidence in clarity: God has spoken plainly; His commands can be understood and applied (Deuteronomy 30:11–14). • Expectation of obedience: once we read, we are accountable to live what we discover (James 1:22–25). Practical Steps for Digging In • Read the passage slowly; note repeated words and key phrases. • Compare cross-references in the margins or a concordance to see the fuller biblical picture. • Summarize in your own words what the text says about God and His commands. • Memorize key verses to keep truth readily available for daily decisions (Psalm 119:11). • Apply one concrete action today based on what you’ve read. Encouragement from Other Passages • “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” – Luke 11:28 • “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” – Psalm 119:105 • “But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom, and continues to do so… he will be blessed in what he does.” – James 1:25 Luke 10:26 shows Jesus steering a would-be expert back to Scripture’s text. In doing so, He invites every believer to open the Bible personally, read it carefully, and live it faithfully, trusting its complete truth and sufficiency. |
    |