God’s Holy People stretch like a river from ancient times to our own day

There have been many generations of believers throughout the history of mankind. These people have been diverse and have evolved over time. Societal norms and laws have always played a major factor in how commandments and expectations were interpreted in the early church and that is no different today. 

Scriptures recorded, translated, and interpreted provide us a glimpse of how things have changed. The Holy Bible is divided into sections called the Hebrew scriptures (Old Covenant/Testament) and the Greek scriptures (New Covenant/Testament). There are also additional books written by those of the Old Covenant called the Apocrypha that are sometimes used in the Christian Church. All these writings were inspired by God and that connectedness has intertwined us all together over time, not only as children of God but as those who follow God. The Holy Spirit guides the Church and all people in their interpretation of the Word in their own day.

We believe that the Holy Scriptures were in fact inspired by God and they contain all things necessary for salvation. 

2 Peter 1:19-21 - So we have the prophetic message for fully confirmed. You will do well to be attentive to this as a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts. First of all you must understand this, that no prophecy of scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation, because no prophecy ever came by human will, but men and women moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.

Prayer: Collect Proper 28

Blessed Lord, who caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant us so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that we may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen

(Book of Common Prayer, 1979; pg. 236.)

Ponderings…

How can you read scriptures and apply it to your life today? Why has the Holy Bible has been studied by so many people over so many generations? What can you do to investigate that further? 

Illustrations used with permission. Copyright information for print above: Illustration by Elizabeth Wang, T-01508A-OL, ‘God's Holy People stretch like a river from ancient times to our own day’, copyright © Radiant Light 2006, <http://www.radiantlight.org.uk/>