Public Reading of Scripture

The Bible says that God’s words and written instruction are heard or read among gathered people. At Horeb, the people are assembled to hear God’s words, learn to fear him, and teach their sons (Deuteronomy 4:10). Another instruction gathers men, women, children, and sojourners to hear, learn, fear the LORD, and carefully do the words of the instruction (Deuteronomy 31:12). Joshua proclaims every word of the instruction, including blessing and curse (Joshua 8:34). Letters are to be read among churches and to all the brothers (Colossians 4:16; 1 Thessalonians 5:27). Public reading is also named alongside exhortation and teaching (1 Timothy 4:13).