Study: Most Churchgoers Do Not Read Bible on Daily Basis

[TimothyH]

We’re not required to read the Bible

We get three readings out of the Bible each time we go to Mass with a homily afterwards. Since we’re not “entitled” to personal interpretation, one would think this would suffice. We have many other materials, such as the Catechism and the encyclicals, and approved books and learning materials that are easier to read and interpreted for us according to the teachings of the Church.

This is a mistake, that reading the Bible automatically means personal interpetation of scripture.

There is a framework for reading scripture which when learned by Catholics, guides us in the right direction and makes it very difficult to come to incorrect understandings. Part of that framework is spelled out in the Catechsim which you mentioned - the senses of scripture in paragraphs 115 to 119.

Reading scripture outside of the framework - rules of engagement if you will - often does lead to incorrect intepretation, but when scripture is read correctly, it is extremely difficult to understand it in a way which contradict’s church teaching.

Scripture has to be read correctly. How to do so is extremely easy to learn. I should start a thread.

-Tim-

 

[Lochias]

Scripture has to be read correctly. How to do so is extremely easy to learn. I should start a thread.

-Tim-

I would at least peek at it.

 

[Friar_David_O.Carm]

I want to add this.

I do not believe that daily reading of the Scriptures is necessary to be a Catholic/Christian.

Those of us bound either by Rule, Constitutions, Statutes, and/or Canon Law to pray the Liturgy of the Hours are doing so. We get psalms, canticles, and readings in the various offices.

Those attending daily Mass are hearing an Epistle and Gospel reading along with a responsorial psalm.

As a Carmelite my Rule calls me to meditate day and night on the law of the lord.

While as I said I do not believe that it is required I do believe it is to be highly recommended.

One must be sure to not fall into self interpretation though.

The Scriptures do speak to us as individuals and we may and should reflect on that but we must test those reflections against what the Church Teaches. When our reflections go against what the Church Teaches then we know that our reflections are wrong.