The Church’s Relationship with the Holy Bible – Final Lecture at the Church Education Conference in Fleming
1️⃣ The Place of the Holy Bible in the Church
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III emphasized that the Coptic Church is among the most Bible-centered churches. All prayers and rites contain large portions of Scripture: the Liturgy, the Agpeya, daily readings, the Psalms, and even rites like Pascha, the Fast of Jonah, and the consecration of homes.
2️⃣ Approaching the Gospel with Reverence
The Church presents the Gospel reading with great honor: incense, lights, and standing with reverence. The priest carries the Gospel around the altar, symbolizing the spreading of the Word. Even hearing the Gospel is considered a blessing requiring worthiness and prayer.
3️⃣ The Holy Bible as the Foundation of Faith and Life
All doctrines, rites, sermons, hymns, praises, and spiritual life in the Church are built on the Holy Bible. The Gospel is the law, guide, and path of every believer.
4️⃣ Practical Advice for One’s Relationship with the Bible
The Pope offered several key points:
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Always having a Bible, especially a pocket-size copy.
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Reading regularly, not occasionally.
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Focusing on meditation rather than quantity.
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Extracting spiritual meaning and applying it daily.
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Daily recitation of Scripture and repeating verses.
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Memorizing large portions, especially the Psalms.
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Using Scripture to face temptations, hardships, and decisions.
5️⃣ The Power of God’s Word in a Person’s Life
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explained how a single verse can change a person’s life, as with St. Anthony. Verses give comfort in troubles and guide and strengthen the believer, like the saying of David the Prophet: “Remember the word to Your servant, upon which You have caused me to hope.”
6️⃣ Spiritual Reading, Not Dry Academic Study
He encouraged reading the Bible in a meditative spiritual way—not as a dry academic exercise. The goal is spiritual growth, not arguments or complications. Simple believers enter God’s kingdom through the Word, while some get lost in unnecessary debates.
7️⃣ A Practical Example of Meditation
The Pope offered a deep reflection on the first verses of Genesis, showing how the creation story becomes a spiritual lesson about God’s work in the soul, bringing light out of darkness, and God’s gradual healing of the inner person.
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