Giving the Sense

"So they read distinctly from the book, in the Law of God; and they gave the sense, and helped them to understand the reading."

Nehemiah 8:8

After the walls of Jerusalem were rebuilt, all who had understanding gathered to hear the Word of God.  Ezra the scribe is described as standing upon a pulpit of wood designed for this purpose, and read the Law to the attentive assembly.  He and others helped the people to understand what the Law said, what it meant, and therefore how it should affect them.  This approach to teaching the Bible is desperately needed today.

The value of inductive Bible study and teaching cannot be overstated.  Instead of bringing our bias to the text, it is important to realise we are handling the absolute truth of God's Word.  Whilst it is true there can be various interpretations and applications of a single passage of scripture, Nehemiah 8:8 emphasises readings from "the book" have concrete meaning because they gave "the sense."  The priests, Levites, and scribes did not give their personal opinions or spin on what the reading meant.  Their knowledge of God through the entire written Word of God enabled them to draw conclusions through observation, interpretation in context, and personal application.

The Bible is more than a text to be studied but wisdom to put into action.  When the light of God's word shines upon us, it should provoke an obedient response.  The people were grieved by the weight of their sin, but Nehemiah reminded people of how they were to conduct themselves on a holy day in Nehemiah 8:9-10:  "And Nehemiah, who was the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, "This day is holy to the LORD your God; do not mourn nor weep." For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the Law. ¹⁰ Then he said to them, "Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our LORD. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength."  There are fitting times both to mourn and celebrate, and Nehemiah directed the people to rejoice in God rather than to mourn their sin.  Mourning gave way to repentance and agreement with the God who rejoiced over them, having graciously provided them land, homes, and food.  In light of all God had done for them, they were to joyfully do for others.

Did you read the Bible today?  It is good to read, but did you understand what you read?  Having understood, have you put into personal practice the things God has revealed?  Praise the LORD for the teachers He gives us but most of all for the indwelling Holy Spirit who guides us into all truth.  How privileged and blessed we are to commune with God through opening our hearts and minds to His Word.