How is your reading of the NT going, my fellow readers? Do you have any questions about what you’re reading? For instance, in Luke 4:38-44, when Jesus tells the demons not to tell anyone that he was the Christ? Why wouldn’t Jesus not want the world to know who he was? Isn’t that the point?

The silencing of both demons and others is what is known as the Messianic Secret. There are differing views of regarding this call to be silent. One theory is that Jesus did not want his Messiahship associated with the popular view that he was a political/military Messiah come to establish the Kingdom of God by force, uproot the Romans and begin a new Davidic Kingdom from Jerusalem. A second theory is that he wanted people to understand his mission and identity in light of his resurrection. Making a proclamation too early would distort their view of his purposes.

I’ve been thinking further about how we might connect around this project of NT in a Year. Perhaps we could meet occasionally to do a discussion group about the readings and what it means to us individually. Or perhaps an evening of finger food and a presentation about history and formation of the New Testament, and/or a video related to some aspect of the NT – discussion to follow. We might also invite someone, a biblical scholar for example to speak to us. Let me know what you think, or any other ideas you might have.

Rev. Steve

My First Entry

Hello Fellow Tansley Bloggers,

I hope you will find this both a useful resource for your reading the New Testament (NT), and also a fun way to talk to one another about how your are doing and to be of encouragement. I commend you greatly for taking on this assignment. 14 have signed up!!! I believe that this will be a great blessing to you. I also acknowledge that reading the Bible can sometimes be a challenging task!

I personally have not read the NT in a disciplined way for many years. I have used as an excuse (we all have them, right!) that I am regularly reading pieces of the NT as sermon prep, but that is different. How we approach the NT will differ from one to another based on our past experiences.

The first thing I have noticed as I begin this journey is one of process. Doing a regular reading program is a discipline and takes discipline. I am setting aside time early in the morning. I find it a great way to start the day; to have the Word present from the outset of each day. This is a great spiritual practice in that disciplines are critical for a healthy spiritual life. (That’s why they called them disciples!!)

The other thing I have found is the dichotomy between just reading and trying to understand, and referencing my years of reading biblical commentary. While reading what others think is very important and helpful, it can sometimes get in the way of our own understanding, and perhaps in the way of what the Holy Spirit, the original author of the Bible, is trying to say. While these two are not mutually exclusive, I am finding it refreshing to just open up the NT and read. What have you found so far? What has the experience been like to date for you? Don’t hesitate to ask questions using this blog. This helps us all to learn. Looking forward to hearing from you.

Blessings in Christ,
   Rev. Steve