Test your Bible literacy. How many of each kind of animal did Moses take on the Ark? How many chapters are there in the Book of Hezekiah? The answer to both is ‘none’! What exactly is meant by Biblical Literacy? Is Bible Literacy about knowing lots of Bible trivia? Is going to church a guarantee of biblical literacy? Why is it even important? The Christian faith is storied; Stories need to be seen as unfolding a relationship in which God is the central player. Stories present reality not answers – rather the stories reveal emerging patterns, juxtapositions, contrasts, the elements placed in opposition to one another. (Professor James Nestingen).
In order to make sense of the story, one needs tools to read, understand and apply the story. The Logos website suggests that; ‘Biblical literacy involves a deeper awareness of the meaning of what’s in the Bible—how God’s grand narrative unfolds from the first words in Genesis 1, “In the beginning . . . ,” to the very last words of Revelation. How there’s one common thread that knits the whole thing together. That there is meaning behind every word and every story God chose to include in his book of instruction. It’s the ability to rightly read and understand the Bible by using the proper tools of study to become better acquainted with its essential nature and content and then apply discerned meaning to life. It requires personal interaction—and approaching the Bible for what it is: alive and active, God’s living Word (Heb 4:12).
Much like navigating with a map and compass, there are skills and knowledge required to do that well and not get lost! What skills are required to decode the biblical narrative? What understanding do we want our students to have about the scripture and the God who reveals himself? How do they interact in a way that brings that to life in their own experience? What has helped you make sense of the Bible’s story? One of the best tools I’ve found is The Bible Project. For great introductions to each book of the Bible, tools to help you read it and understand the key themes, this is a wonderful resource. Why not have a look!
David Spike
Pastor for Ministry and Formation
david.spike@levnt.edu.au
