Advent II 2019

This Sunday has sometimes been called "Bible Sunday" because the collect and lessons stress the theme of Holy Scripture. This time, the comments will be brief. Let us focus on two key points that apply to the Christian life.

First, notice the collect. It reads, "Blessed Lord, who hast caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning; Grant that we may in such wise hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and comfort of thy holy Word, we may embrace, and ever hold fast, the blessed hope of everlasting life, which thou hast given us in our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen." These lovely and meaningful words embody a devotional and practical emphasis. That is, we seek to learn from Scripture looking to the goal of eternal life through Christ.

Secondly, let us notice Article of Religion VI which begins, "Holy Scripture containeth all things necessary to salvation: so that whatsoever is not read therein, nor may be proved thereby, is not to be required of any man, that it should be believed as an article of the Faith, or be thought requisite or necessary to salvation." Again the emphasis is not on abstract or arcane theological disputes but rather devotional and practical. Like the collect for the day, the Article points to Scripture as the primary source leading to saving faith.

There are times and places where abstract theological discussions are in order. This may be especially true when Christianity is challenged or attacked by the world. Nevertheless, every Christian should focus on the primary and ongoing purpose of Holy Scripture in Christian life. We always need to remember that Scripture is given by God to lead us to saving faith in Jesus Christ.