The Ten Commandments
Q6. What does this mean?
We should fear and love God so that we do not look down on preaching and his Word. Instead, we should hold it sacred, and be glad to hear and learn it.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Hebrews 10:25
“Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”
Psalm 26:8
“LORD, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth.”
Luke 11:28
“But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.”
2 Timothy 3:16
“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
What does Luther say we should not do with preaching and God's Word?
- 2
What does it mean to "hold God's Word sacred"?
- 3
How do you act when you find God's Word boring or hard to listen to?
Illustration
A student who mocks his teacher and skips class will not learn anything. It is not the teacher's fault. The student's attitude kept him from the lesson. When we look down on preaching or treat God's Word as unimportant, we cut ourselves off from the very thing that feeds our faith.
Application
The next time you sit down for family devotions or go to church, ask God beforehand to open your ears and help you want to listen. Because God speaks through his Word, your job as a student is to receive it gladly.
Read Luther’s expanded teaching
From the Large Catechism (1529)