A Word on the Bible
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III discusses the importance of the Holy Bible in the lives of young people, explaining that a person’s relationship with the Word of God should not be limited to simply possessing the Bible, but should extend to reading it, meditating on it, memorizing its verses, and practicing its teachings. He emphasizes the necessity of making the Holy Bible a constant companion for young people, both in their daily lives and in their spiritual studies. He also encourages them to have a small copy for reading and meditation during their free time, and another copy for in-depth study. He explains that reading the Holy Bible should be regular and daily because the Word of God is the nourishment of the heart and the spirit.
Spiritual Message
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III emphasizes that meditation on the Holy Bible is deeper than superficial reading, because meditation helps a person discover new spiritual meanings in the words of God. He also encourages writing down spiritual reflections and memorizing the verses that leave an impact on the heart, so that they become part of a person’s daily life. He explains that the Word of God is not merely words to be read, but a light that guides a person along the way and a strength that helps him overcome spiritual battles and resist sin. He points out that the Coptic Orthodox Church demonstrates great reverence for the Holy Bible and makes its readings an essential part of its prayers and rituals. It also considers listening to the Gospel an opportunity to connect with God and learn from His Word.
Educational Lesson
His Holiness explains that the Holy Bible provides young people with comprehensive spiritual and practical teaching. Therefore, they should pay attention to studying it from scientific and interpretative perspectives, understanding difficult verses, and comparing biblical passages. He refers to the commandment of Saint John the Apostle to young people: “You are strong, and the Word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one,” explaining that the true strength of young people comes from the Word of God abiding within them, and that this strength helps them overcome sin. He also presents examples of biblical figures whom God chose from a young age, such as David, Jeremiah, Samuel, Solomon, and John the Baptist, to emphasize that God can use young people in His service and divine work. He also refers to the example of Saint Athanasius the Apostolic, who produced great works and writings while still young.
Practical Application
His Holiness calls for raising children and young people from an early age to memorize verses from the Holy Bible, without underestimating their ability to memorize and understand. Instead, verses should be presented to them gradually, in a way that suits their ages. He also encourages memorizing various verses about spiritual virtues, prayer, fasting, and church life, so that the Word of God remains present in their minds when facing temptations. He advises every young person to choose one or more verses to meditate on and repeat throughout the day, and to make their teachings part of their spiritual exercises and practical behavior. He emphasizes that young people who are filled with the Word of God and remain steadfast in it are more capable of overcoming spiritual battles, because filling the heart with the Word of God gives a person spiritual strength and steadfastness in the face of sin.
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