The First Meeting for Training Servants – The Holy Bible in Ministry – Oil and Water in the Holy Bible

1️⃣ The Holy Bible as the Foundation of Ministry and Faith

His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explained that ministry is transmitting God’s word, and that Christ sent His apostles to preach the Gospel and teach all that He commanded. Thus, teaching is the basis of ministry and of faith itself, and the successful servant is one who understands the Bible correctly and becomes like a “living Gospel” carrying the word in his mind, heart, and life.

2️⃣ The Necessity of Correct Biblical Understanding

He emphasized that all denominations use biblical verses, but true understanding is what distinguishes Orthodox teaching. Some passages are difficult and are misused by heretics. Scripture interprets Scripture, and no verse should be isolated from its full context. Therefore, one must refer to tradition, patristic teaching, and proper biblical commentary.

3️⃣ Literal and Symbolic Interpretation

He presented two methods: literal interpretation and symbolic interpretation, both valid when used wisely. He offered examples such as “the sword,” “the leaven of the Pharisees,” parables, the Song of Songs, and Revelation—books and sayings that must be read symbolically. Some symbols have multiple meanings, such as “the vine” or the letters to the seven churches.

4️⃣ The Vastness of God’s Word

He stressed that Scripture is broad in meaning, and no verse should be confined to a narrow interpretation. God’s commandments are “exceedingly broad,” and cannot be forced into a single restricted explanation.

5️⃣ The Symbolism of Oil in the Bible

He explained deeply the meaning of oil as a symbol of the Holy Spirit:

• Jacob anointing Bethel.

• The anointing of David, Saul, kings and priests.

• Oil in the lampstand and the seven churches.

• The olive tree as a symbol of the Church and the Spirit-filled believer.

• The wise virgins filled with oil.

• Christ’s relationship with the Spirit symbolized in the offering mixed with oil.

He explained that Christians were called “Christians” because they were anointed with the holy oil and received the Holy Spirit.

6️⃣ The Symbolism of Water in the Bible

He explained the connection between water, the Holy Spirit, life, and purity:

• “Rivers of living water” referring to the Holy Spirit.

• The Spirit hovering over the waters at creation.

• Sweet water symbolizing life; salty water symbolizing the world.

• The sea as a symbol of danger; the river as grace.

• Clouds as symbols of the Spirit.

• Water in baptism, from Christ’s pierced side, and in the sacraments and various rites.

He clarified that blood and water from Christ’s side signified both life and redemption.

7️⃣ An Integrated Spiritual Reading

He called the servant to read Scripture with meditation and integrated understanding, discovering the richness of biblical symbolism, so that he can give the people a living, Spirit-filled word—not mere theoretical knowledge.

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