In what ways can we ensure clarity when sharing Scripture with others? Opening Verse: Nehemiah 8:7 “The Levites—Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, and Pelaiah—instructed the people in the Law, and the people stood in their places.” Historical Snapshot: How the Levites Brought Clarity • They positioned themselves among the crowd, not above it—close enough to hear questions and read faces. • They “instructed,” moving beyond mere reading to explanation. • Verse 8 adds the key detail: “They read from the Book of the Law of God, translating it and giving the sense, so that the people understood the reading.” • The immediate result: understanding birthed worship (v. 9–12). Timeless Principles for Clear Sharing 1. Stand with the listener • Proximity matters—physical, relational, and emotional. • 1 Thessalonians 2:8 echoes this: “We were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our own lives as well.” 2. Read the text plainly • Let the words speak first; avoid starting with opinions. • Revelation 1:3 honors the public reading of Scripture. 3. Translate and define terms • The Levites “gave the sense.” We do the same by explaining unfamiliar words, cultural practices, or theological concepts. • Luke 24:27 shows Jesus modeling this as He “explained to them what was written about Himself in all the Scriptures.” 4. Break it down into digestible parts • Short passages, clear themes, summarized points. • Isaiah 28:10 notes learning “line upon line…here a little, there a little.” 5. Connect Scripture with Scripture • Let Bible light shine on Bible light; clarity grows when passages interpret one another. • Acts 17:11 commends the Bereans for checking Paul’s teaching against the Scriptures. 6. Invite response, not just information • The Levites paused for celebration and obedience (Nehemiah 8:12). • James 1:22 calls us to be “doers of the word, and not hearers only.” Practical Steps for Today • Use a faithful translation yet be ready with simple paraphrase. • Keep a small glossary of frequent biblical terms (grace, covenant, redemption) for new listeners. • Illustrate with everyday examples—parables did this masterfully. • Watch the listener’s body language; adjust pace and tone accordingly. • Encourage note-taking or journaling to reinforce memory. • Follow up: a quick text, call, or coffee to revisit questions. Other Scriptural Voices on Clarity • 1 Corinthians 14:9—“Unless you speak intelligible words, how will anyone know what you are saying?” • 2 Timothy 2:15—“Accurately handling the word of truth.” • Acts 8:30–35—Philip asks, “Do you understand what you are reading?” then explains Isaiah to the Ethiopian official. • Psalm 119:130—“The unfolding of Your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” Closing Encouragement Clarity is not a modern invention; it is woven into God’s design for His Word. When we stand beside people, read plainly, explain faithfully, and connect truth to life, the same result witnessed in Nehemiah’s day follows: hearts understand, joy rises, and obedience flows. |
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