What is essential to being able to really understand the Bible? A knowledge of the biblical languages: Hebrew, Aramaic, Greek? How about modern technological tools such as Bibleworks or other software?
Well, these can certainly be helpful, and the original languages are clearly important for scholars and leaders in the church. But, as I read the latest edition of Southern Seminary's magazine, I was reminded of some simple and great teaching that I received from Dr. Rob Plummer years ago.
Here's what he writes in answer to a question about the role of modern technology in his own study and preparation for sermons:
"From my experience, nothing compares to Luther's advice: Oratio, Meditatio, Tentatio (Prayer, Meditation, and Trials). As we approach the Scripture, we begin with a humble posture of prayer. Then, we soak meditatively in the Scripture--seeking the Spirit's illumination. Thirdly, we trust the sovereignty of God in teaching us the beauty, truth and comforts of Scripture through the trials we face. These experiential realities then enable us to convey passionately the truth we know to others. Of these three core elements, only Meditatio is served through technology--potentially enabling us easier access to texts and tools to think, sing, pray and speak the Scripture in meditative fashion."
There you have it; thanks Dr. Plummer! At its best, technology is a servant. The enduring realities of life and of Bible study don't change.
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