Bible Study

*Just for your thoughts.*

Expository Commentary on the Book of Nehemiah.
Bible meditation 14
Meditation Passage: Nehemiah 8:3
In this passage, Ezra read and explained the Law from early morning until noon, in the presence of men, women, and all who could understand. All the people listened attentively to the Book of the Law.
Based on Nehemiah 8:3, we can understand that the Word of God was read and explained continuously for about six hours. As a result, when the people heard the words of the Law, they wept (Nehemiah 8:9). Realizing their sinful lives, they were deeply convicted and grieved, leading them to repentance.
Thus, a long session of Bible teaching transformed not only their hearts but the entire community.
Jesus Christ Himself was called a “Teacher” in many places during His earthly ministry. His Sermon on the Mount was both profound and extensive. Likewise, in Acts 20:7–11, we see that Paul preached throughout the night. In the New Testament, there is hardly anyone who can be compared to Paul as a teacher.
The reason I mention all this is to highlight how Bible teaching is being neglected in these last days.
For a person who is born again, sound Bible teaching is an essential form of education. Especially for young people, this is a crucial responsibility that church leaders must provide. Youth must be encouraged to develop a taste for the Word of God.
Just as young people show enthusiasm and joy during Sunday worship, today’s church leaders have often failed to cultivate the same level of interest and excitement toward Bible teaching. As a result, Bible teaching feels like a bitter medicine to many young people.
When it is said that Paul preached all night, it implies that he taught the Word in such an engaging, clear, and compelling way that believers were eager to listen.
Only one who has tasted a fruit can describe its sweetness. Likewise, only those who have truly experienced and enjoyed Bible teaching can effectively share its richness with others.
Young people who are accustomed to listening to one-hour sermons on Sundays often find two- or three-hour Bible teaching sessions difficult or unappealing. However, if every church conducts a dedicated, in-depth Bible teaching session for two or three hours at least once a week, young people will no longer see it as something bitter.
Today, church leaders must take responsibility for why many young people neglect and avoid Bible teaching.
As the saying goes, “If one can melt, even a stone will melt.” If a pastor consistently teaches the Word deeply and systematically, the youth in that church will grow to become strong in the Scriptures.
Today, there is a mistaken belief among believers that theological education is only necessary for full-time ministers. This misconception must be corrected by church leaders.
Every church should provide structured and sound theological teaching to its members. Just as importance is given to worship, equal importance must be given to Bible teaching. That is true balance.
Because this balance has not been maintained, Bible teaching has lost its value in many places today. Young people neglect it and grow without understanding its importance. This is a very dangerous situation.
In those days, Ezra’s teaching transformed an entire community. Paul’s teachings kept the churches in order and doctrinal discipline.
We all know the condition today.
Therefore, pastors must not neglect Bible teaching. Just as there are night prayer meetings, there should also be night Bible study sessions. Churches that conduct such studies are truly blessed.ச
When churches neglect giving proper place to the Word of God, their growth lacks depth.
Today, every pastor and church leader must become like Ezra and Paul. Otherwise, there will be no strong future for the church.