I've asked a couple of my mates to contribute a guest blog article on their personal journey engaging the Bible. Here is the first one - its from a young guy called Mark Payne. Mark is in his early twenties and is currently studying theology with the Australian College of Ministries."Marty has asked me to write up my ideas or thoughts on Bible Engagement. I wont be writing from experience gained as a youth pastor or any other kind of leader. I would more focus on the personal experience that I have had when it comes to engaging with the Gods word.
Throughout my life I can think of a few examples that really connected me with the Bible. I won't focus on the actual situations, but rather on the commonalities of each experience. The common theme was connecting the word of God with action. It’s that simple. The only problem for me is that I can't think of that many experiences in my life that happen regularly where I read the word of God, regardless of the context (whether personally, corporately) and go out and act upon it immediately. There is power in immediate action. There also should be discernment and lots of prayer whacked in there, but how often do we just need to get out and do it after reading the Bible.
The whole idea of reading and action is that simple. I'm sure we all know it. But how often do we practice it as individuals, as families and as faith communities?"
