The focus practice for Overflow this month is the study of God’s Word. I chose to contemplate this passage from Hebrews this week because a staff member said her Overflow group wondered what it means when we refer to the Bible as the Living Word.
It is a profound and thought-provoking theological question that we are privileged to ponder as we journey this month together.
First, let’s begin by remembering what Rich said this week in worship: experiencing God’s Word does and should change us. Recall the story of King Josiah, who tore his robes when he heard the Word of God read aloud. He heard God’s Word, recognized the Word was not being obeyed and responded in anguish by tearing his clothing, a prized resource and possession in biblical times. This powerful act of transformation is a testament to the Bible’s ability to change lives. In his anguish and conviction, Josiah changed course for himself and his people. God’s Word changed the path.
Have you ever sat through a sermon and walked away knowing that God has sent that message straight to you? It is not that the scripture passage is new or unknown, but rather the gift and promise of God is that the Word changes you, changes your heart, changes your desires. One day, you open your Bible to a passage you have read 100 times but this time you have an experience that changes you from the inside out. This is the promise of Scripture: a personal and transformative connection to God’s Word.
Now, back to Hebrews. The passage referenced above is taken from a passage where Paul encourages Christians who were in “danger of slipping back into Judaism” to understand that the entire Old Testament points to the living, breathing, resurrected Jesus. We rest, read, study, and fellowship in the confidence of Christ, in the gift of Christ. Understanding this connection between the Old Testament and Jesus can deepen our knowledge and faith.
So, yes, the Word of God is living and breathing because Jesus changes everything. Jesus walked this earth fully man and fully God, so the narrative of God and his people became a never-ending love story of redemption and salvation.
The fact that you change in response to God’s Word and call on your life makes Scripture alive and active.
Our hope in Jesus makes the Church a beacon of that hope for the world.