Daily Encouragementنموونە

The inspired Book is the source of the man of God’s equipment for his task. Its use, as outlined here, obviously applies to every man and woman of God. However, Paul’s words have a very special relevance for those called to be preachers and teachers. For “man of God” we may well read “minister of the word,” particularly since the next chapter opens with a solemn charge to just such a man to “preach the Word.”

The urgent message to preachers and teachers is, Do not neglect your Bibles. Even at this exalted level, familiarity can breed contempt. “The ideal ministry must be a Bibliocracy,” said P. T. Forsyth. “It must know its Bible better than any other book. Some preachers know it only in the way of business, as a sermon quarry. But the true ministry must live on it.” And old Alexander Whyte remarked, “What is occasional with another is, or may be, continual with me. Morning, noon and night my Bible must be in my hands.” His motto was, “No day without its line,” the reference being to his interleaved Bible in which he wrote notes day by day as he read.

“Do not let this book of the Law depart from your mouth, meditate on it day and night . . . ” (Josh. 1:8).