Sacred Scripture: Illuminating the Path of Ascension

We’ll be summarizing the whole Bible, answering key questions about who wrote it, what it’s about, when it was written, why it was written, and how to read it. Let’s dive into this journey to understand God’s Word more deeply, beginning with a prayer:

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Heavenly Father, through the Cross of Christ, we ask that we may embrace your gift and, through your mercy, persevere in our faith. As we gaze upon Jesus on the Cross, may we too be lifted into eternal life. Through the Holy Scriptures, guide us on the path to holiness and salvation. We ask this through Christ, our Lord, Amen.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.

How to Read the Bible

When reading the Bible, it's important to approach it with prayer. Reading the Bible is not like reading a novel or even a history book; it is a spiritual encounter. Begin and end with prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to open your heart to God’s Word. A key tip is to ensure you are reading a Catholic edition of the Bible, such as the New American Bible or the Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition, which includes the Church's full list of sacred books.

The Bible is not just a book but a collection of 73 books. These books were written over centuries, including history, prophecy, poetry, letters, and the Gospels. Understanding the genre of each book helps you grasp the meaning the author intended to convey.

The Old and New Testaments

The Bible is the story of God’s relationship with His people, starting with the Israelites and extending to us today. It is not meant to be a science or political book, but a moral guide for salvation. The Old Testament and New Testament shed light on one another—together they reveal God’s plan for humanity. As St. Augustine once said, "The New Testament is hidden in the Old, and the Old Testament is revealed in the New."

Reading the Bible in Context

It’s crucial to read the Bible in context, considering the passages around each verse. Isolating a single verse can lead to misunderstandings. For instance, many Catholics mistakenly dismiss the Old Testament, thinking it no longer applies. However, the Old Testament is foundational, and both the Old and New Testaments together help us understand God’s unfolding plan.

Lexio Divina: A Method of Prayerful Reading

One of the best ways to pray with Scripture is through Lexio Divina, which means “Divine Reading.” It involves four steps:

Read the passage: Read it through once, then slowly read it again.

Reflect on its meaning: Summarize the message in your own mind.

Respond by applying it to your life: How does it speak to your current situation?

Rest in God's presence: Let the Word sink into your heart in silence.

Is the Bible Literally True?

Yes, the Bible is literally true, but this doesn’t mean we read every passage in a literalist sense. For instance, when Jesus says, "If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off," He doesn’t mean we should physically harm ourselves, but rather that we should rid ourselves of anything leading us to sin. The truth is conveyed through various literary tools and parables, and it's important to understand the message being communicated.

The Two Senses of Scripture

When interpreting the Bible, the Church speaks of two senses: the literal sense, which refers to the meaning conveyed by the words themselves, and the spiritual sense, which includes allegorical, moral, and anagogical interpretations.

Allegorical Sense: How does the text point to Christ?

Moral Sense: What lessons can we learn for living a virtuous life?

Anagogical Sense: How does the text relate to our eternal destiny?

Who Wrote the Bible?

About 40 different human authors contributed to the Bible, including shepherds, kings, fishermen, and doctors. These authors wrote under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, conveying God’s Word through their unique styles.

When Was the Bible Written?

The Old Testament was written over roughly 1,000 years, from 1200 BC to about 165 BC. The New Testament was written primarily in the first century AD, within 40 to 60 years after the death of Christ.

Why Was the Bible Written?

The Bible is a love story between God and His people, beginning with the creation of man and culminating in the wedding feast of the Lamb in the Book of Revelation. It reveals God’s plan of salvation, fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is the central figure of the entire Bible.

Conclusion

The Bible is a living, divine library given to us by God through the Church. As Catholics, we read it in the context of Sacred Tradition and the teaching authority of the Church. Remember, the Bible alone cannot stand without the Church and Tradition, just as a stool cannot stand on one leg. May we grow in our love and understanding of God’s Word, which guides us to eternal life.

Thank you for joining me in this journey through the Bible. God bless you!

Sacred Scripture: Illuminating the Path of Ascension

Introduction: 

Dear Brothers of Ascension, let us embark on a profound exploration of Sacred Scripture, the divine revelation that guides our journey of faith. In this detailed exploration, we will delve into the history, mysteries, and structure of the Bible and the importance of selecting the proper Bible version in alignment with the teachings of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

Historical Tapestry of the Bible:

Ancient Origins:

   - Uncover the ancient origins of the Bible, composed over centuries by various authors inspired by the Holy Spirit.

   - The Old Testament traces God's covenant with humanity, while the New Testament narrates the life, teachings, and redemptive work of Jesus Christ.

Formation of the Canon:

   - Explore the meticulous process of discernment and recognition that led to the formation of the biblical canon.

   - The Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, discerned the inspired texts that constitute the authoritative Word of God.

Mysteries Embedded in Scripture (CCC 111 - 114):

Biblical Typology:

   - Unveil the mysteries of biblical typology, where events, persons, or institutions in the Old Testament foreshadow those in the New.

   - Discover how biblical types deepen our understanding of God's unfolding plan of salvation.

Allegorical Sense:

   - Illuminate the allegorical sense of Scripture, where certain passages convey deeper spiritual truths.

   - Through allegory, the Bible becomes a rich tapestry of symbols pointing to eternal realities.

Moral and Anagogical Dimensions:

   - Delve into the moral and anagogical dimensions of Scripture, exploring its ethical teachings and its connection to the final destiny of humanity.

   - The moral sense guides our actions, while the anagogical sense directs our gaze toward heavenly realities.

Structure of the Bible (CCC 120 - 130):

Divine Inspiration and Inerrancy:

   - Affirm the divine inspiration and inerrancy of Scripture, highlighting its unique status as the Word of God.

   - The Bible, inspired by the Holy Spirit, contains truths necessary for salvation without error.

Old Testament and New Testament:

   - Outline the structure of the Bible, distinguishing between the Old Testament and the New Testament.

   - The Old Testament prepares the way for Christ, while the New Testament reveals His life, teachings, death, and resurrection.

Genres and Literary Forms:

   - Explore the diverse genres and literary forms within Scripture, including historical narratives, poetry, prophecy, and epistles.

   - Understanding these forms enhances our appreciation of the varied ways God communicates His message.

Selecting the Proper Bible Version (CCC 120):

Faithfulness to Church Teaching:

   - Emphasize the importance of selecting a Bible version that is faithful to the teachings of the Catholic Church.

   - Versions approved by the Church ensure that the translation accurately reflects the intended meaning of the sacred text.

Inclusive Language Considerations:

   - Discuss considerations related to inclusive language in Bible versions, ensuring sensitivity to the original intent of the text.

   - Encourage the use of versions that balance contemporary language while preserving the theological richness of the Scriptures.

Accessibility and Comprehension:

   - Acknowledge the diversity of Bible versions in terms of language complexity and accessibility.

   - Guide brothers to choose a version that aligns with their reading comprehension level, facilitating a deeper understanding of the text.

Bible in the Life of Faith (CCC 131 - 133):

Lectio Divina:

   - Advocate for the practice of Lectio Divina, a meditative reading of Scripture that fosters a personal encounter with God.

   - Encourage brothers to engage in this spiritual discipline for a deeper understanding of God's Word.

Liturgical Reading:

   - Emphasize the importance of liturgical reading, where the Church proclaims and celebrates the Word of God in the context of worship.

   - The liturgy integrates Scripture into the fabric of communal prayer and worship.

Conclusion: 

As Brothers of Ascension, may our exploration of Sacred Scripture deepen our reverence for this divine gift. Through its historical tapestry, profound mysteries, and intricate structure, the Bible becomes a guiding light on our journey of faith. May our engagement with Scripture be characterized by openness, humility, and a hunger for the eternal truths it reveals. Let us embrace the Word of God as a source of illumination, inspiration, and transformation on our shared path of ascension in Christ.

A Journey of Revelation: Properly Reading the Bible with the Brothers of Ascension

Introduction: 

Dear Brothers of Ascension, in our pursuit of spiritual growth and communion with God, the proper reading of the Bible is paramount. Let us embark on a guided journey through the Scriptures, exploring steps and guidance aligned with the teachings of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. May this endeavor deepen our understanding, foster contemplation, and illuminate the path of ascension.

Step 1: Pray for Guidance (CCC 2653): 

Begin your reading with a prayer for guidance. Invite the Holy Spirit to illuminate your heart and mind, allowing you to grasp the profound truths embedded in the sacred text.

Step 2: Choose a Quiet Setting: 

Select a quiet and contemplative setting for your reading. Minimize distractions to create an environment conducive to reflection and communion with God through His Word.

Step 3: Select a Passage or Book (CCC 101): 

Choose a specific passage or book to focus on during your reading. Consider following the liturgical calendar or exploring the Sunday readings to align your study with the Church's rhythm.

Step 4: Read with Context in Mind (CCC 112): 

Before delving into a passage, briefly explore its historical and literary context. Understanding the cultural and theological background enhances your grasp of the intended meaning.

Step 5: Engage in Lectio Divina (CCC 1177): 

Practice Lectio Divina, a method of prayerful reading. Read the chosen passage slowly, allowing the words to resonate. Meditate on the message, pray in response, and maintain a contemplative silence.

Step 6: Reflect on the Allegorical and Moral Senses (CCC 118-119): 

Consider the allegorical and moral senses of the text. Explore how the passage connects to broader biblical themes and contemplate its moral implications for your life.

Step 7: Connect with Church Teaching (CCC 111): 

Ensure your interpretation aligns with Church teaching. If uncertain, seek guidance from reputable Catholic commentaries or consult with a knowledgeable spiritual advisor.

Step 8: Journal Your Insights (CCC 2654): 

Keep a journal to record your insights, reflections, and any questions that arise. Documenting your spiritual journey fosters a deeper connection with the Word of God.

Step 9: Attend Mass (CCC 1348): 

Attend Mass regularly, allowing the liturgy to further illuminate the Scriptures. The liturgical readings complement your personal study, reinforcing the communal aspect of our faith.

Step 10: Share and Discuss (CCC 1329): 

Engage in discussions with fellow Brothers of Ascension. Sharing perspectives fosters a communal understanding of Scripture, enriching your individual journey.

Conclusion: 

Dear brothers, in the diligent and prayerful reading of the Bible, we open ourselves to a profound encounter with God's Word. As we navigate the Scriptures with reverence, let us remain rooted in the teachings of the Catechism, guided by the Holy Spirit on our collective ascension toward a deeper communion with the Divine. May our shared exploration of the Word be a source of inspiration, unity, and transformative grace.

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