Advent II- Holy Scripture- Luke 21:33

 In traditional Anglicanism, the Second Sunday in Advent emphasizes the importance of Holy Scripture. We see this importance highlighted in two verses from this Sunday's Bible selections. Romans 15:4 says, "For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope." In St. Luke 21:33, Jesus says, "Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away." 

Thus, in theory, despite some differences in emphasis, all Christian groups acknowledge that the Bible is the great Christian authority. The Holy Scriptures are good and powerful, and they are the primary written documents for Christians. Yet, the Bible is not magic. People can have copies of the Bible that are never read. They can hear it read aloud in church without believing. They can read it in private without understanding it or applying it. So a true understanding and acceptance of Scripture depends upon divine grace and the working of the Holy Spirit. 

Anglicans would also add that we are indebted to other Christians who have taught us and witnessed to us. In some sense, we cannot separate Scripture from the catholic or universal Church. Anglicans honor the Scripture understandings of the ancient Church, and we do not think that we constantly have to come up with new interpretations of every passage. 

For Anglicans, Scripture is not read or understood in isolation. It is the primary authority, and it contains God's self-revelation for all generations of Christians. Despite some difficult passages, the basic and necessary teachings of the Bible are clear. But Scripture is best understood in the Church, past and present. Thoughtful believers of different times and backgrounds agree on the basics, and Christians of different perspectives have come up with summaries of Scripture such as the ancient Creeds (Apostles, Nicene, Athanasian). Believing and living in accordance with such Biblical principles are the "things necessary to salvation" (Article of Religion VI).

As we contemplate the coming of Christ the incarnate Word into the world, let us remember to respect the written Word in Holy Scripture. May we be open to reading, hearing, and learning from God's Word in the Bible throughout Advent and all the days of our lives!