Read Out Loud

By Chaplain (Col) Stephen W. Leonard, USA, Ret.

The only book in the Bible it is suggested that you read “out loud” is Revelation! (Many widely used and highly accepted versions have “read aloud” in the verse). And that the one who does so and the one who hears what they read and takes it to heart will be “blessed,” he or she will be a “happy man or woman.” This is a promise not to be ignored, yet it often is.

What does “reading aloud” do that is different? “Reading aloud” suggests you read with others and for the benefit of a group. No one, or very few, read out loud when all alone. But when there are two or three or 10 or 20, one of the group reads out loud so that all can hear and define what is read.

Why, particularly, is it a blessing to read Revelation out loud? All believe it to be a book which is difficult to understand or to interpret the meaning. Very possibly it helps to read it out loud because doing so will lead to discussion of the text. Then, many may well offer up an idea of what they believe the text is saying.

They may be wrong, or partially so, but many opinions might lead to greater clarity, or ways in which to come to a better understanding. It is a way to encourage further study and meditation. And it is a way that a few ears can take notice to do what is said and fiercely determine to take His Word seriously.

Admittedly, the passages about the trumpets, seals, and bowls are difficult to interpret clearly and fully, but those passages which describe heaven and eternity can only thrill your heart. And the texts which contain the promise that Jesus will come soon are exactly what we should all desire.

Why not take the suggestion seriously and begin to read Revelation together out loud and see what God does. I doubt that the suggestion is recommended unless it really does lead to blessing for the group which has faith that God will truly bless them.

Reading Revelation Chapters 4 and 5 together can only encourage you to worship the LORD of Glory as a group. You cannot escape “being” in the throne room of God and the Lamb’s holy presence.

The trumpets and seals and bowls are opened to us as a group, standing behind John, looking over his shoulder as his witnesses to all he was seeing. Why not see yourself as part of that group of live witnesses to John’s vision as you hear the vision read out loud with your fellow saints.

So take to heart what is said in the text and find 2 or 3, or 5 or 6, and read Revelation aloud to one another. Then anticipate being blessed as you also seek to do what is asked of you in His Word.

Encouragement