Always Start Bible Reading with Prayer – Aldrin Bogi

This podcast is a repost, originally published on April 29, 2017 Pastor Priji converses with Pastor Aldrin about how to read the Bible wisely and rely on the Holy Spirit, not on a translation.

Transcript: Pastor Priji Varghese: What is lacking in the church today when it comes to engaging with the Bible compared to the first century? Pastor Aldrin Bogi: In Bible agencies, the biggest focus was in Bible access as we believed that if people had the Bible they will be transformed. However we have realised for a while now that Bible access does not equate transformation. People do not read the Bible and if they do, it is done religiously so. There has to be a spiritual engagement. We tend to be selective of verses instead of reading the whole Bible. Pastor Priji Varghese: What would be the ideal way for a new believer to read the Bible and study it? Pastor Aldrin Bogi: They must realise that the Bible is a collection of 66 Books written through time. It is fully inspired by the Holy Spirit, but also was written in different contexts, which should be kept in mind when reading it. There are timeless principles in the Bible, but there are passages meant for only a certain group of people. Read and get familiar with the Bible. Read as much as possible and not just a chapter or two. The Spirit will reveal more as you read. Pastor Priji Varghese: How can a young person be intentional about applying Biblical principles in their life? Pastor Aldrin Bogi: Always begin reading the Bible with prayer. Pay careful attention to what you are reading, then apply it to your life. There are difficult passages too, so take help from others. Keep pressing on to know the Word more. Be tuned to it. Pastor Priji Varghese: How important is it to memorise scripture? Pastor Aldrin Bogi: Memorising scripture is highly recommended, but it must be done holistically and in context. Memorise the story, the event, not just the verse. Pastor Priji Varghese: How can I make a decision about choosing the right translation? Pastor Aldrin Bogi: Always have two or three translations because there is not a single perfect translation. Get a Bible that you understand best. Pastor Priji Varghese: This month you shared on justice in the Biblica magazine, can you share what it was about? Pastor Aldrin Bogi: The church all around is dealing with the issues of justice. Bringing justice is not restricted to certain organisation. Every Christian has a responsibility to bring justice. It has to be a just community. The church is to be a prophetic sign and expression of the Kingdom of God. It must bring justice within its circle of influence. We must discover the God of justice. You can connect with Pastor Aldrin Bogi through the following links: Facebook | Twitter  Email: [email protected]