Summary of "BONUS: How to Hear God's Voice in Scripture"

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
• Host: Ascension
• Episode: BONUS: How to Hear God's Voice in Scripture
• Release Date: December 30, 2024

Introduction

In the bonus episode of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, Father Mike Schmitz delves into the profound topic of discerning and understanding God's voice through Scripture. Unlike traditional Bible readings, this episode focuses on the methodologies and principles that enable believers to not only comprehend biblical narratives but also to truly hear and experience God's living voice within the Scriptures.

Understanding God's Voice in Scripture

Father Mike begins by clarifying that today's discussion isn't about reading from Scripture but rather about engaging in a conversation about Scripture—specifically, how to hear God's voice within its passages.

[00:10] Fr. Mike Schmitz: "The Bible is not only a document, the Bible is a living thing and it's God's living voice continuing to speak to us."

Five Tips to Hear God's Voice in Scripture

1. Know What You're Reading

Father Mike emphasizes the importance of recognizing the diverse literary genres within the Bible. With 73 books in the canon, Scriptures encompass historical accounts, legal texts, wisdom literature, prophetic writings, and more. Understanding the genre of each book or passage is crucial for accurate interpretation.

[05:30] Fr. Mike Schmitz: "We need to know that there are many genres. There are 73 books in the Old Testament and New Testament, and they are a mix of literary genres."

2. Grasp the Principles of Scripture Interpretation

Interpreting Scripture requires adherence to specific principles to avoid misinterpretation. Father Mike outlines four key aspects:

• Sacred Author’s Intention: Understanding the original context, culture, and purpose behind the writings.

  [15:45] Fr. Mike Schmitz: "We have to try to discover the sacred author's intention... what did Matthew actually mean when he wrote these words?"

• Content and Unity of Scripture: Viewing all 73 books collectively ensures coherence and prevents contradictions.

  [22:10] Fr. Mike Schmitz: "They will not contradict each other, but rather inform each other."

• Living Tradition of the Church: Reading Scripture within the context of sacred tradition and the Church's magisterium.

  [28:55] Fr. Mike Schmitz: "We recognize that divine revelation is not limited to sacred Scripture, but is expanded into sacred tradition and in the magisterium of the Church."

• Analogy of Faith: Ensuring interpretations align with established truths of the faith.

  [35:20] Fr. Mike Schmitz: "If you're interpreting scripture in a way that goes against the whole plan of revelation... you realize you have not been attentive to the analogy of faith."

3. Understand the Senses of Scripture

Beyond the literal meaning, Scripture can be interpreted through various spiritual senses:

• Allegorical Sense: Identifying types and symbols that prefigure Christ and Christian life.

  [45:00] Fr. Mike Schmitz: "The journey through the Red Sea... is a type of Christ's victory and Christian baptism."

• Moral Sense: Extracting lessons that guide ethical and moral behavior.

  [50:30] Fr. Mike Schmitz: "David leaping and dancing before the ark... that's my call to worship God with joy."

• Anagogical Sense: Recognizing the eternal significance and heavenly realities depicted in Scripture.

  [55:15] Fr. Mike Schmitz: "We're called to give eternal worship in heaven, united in God's presence."

4. Read as the Bible Has Something to Teach You

Approaching Scripture with an open and teachable heart, rather than skepticism or a critical mindset, allows believers to receive and internalize God's teachings.

[60:40] Fr. Mike Schmitz: "Put aside skepticism, keep your questions, but trust that God has something to teach you through His Word."

5. Keep Moving Forward

Persistence is key when encountering challenging or confusing passages. Father Mike encourages listeners to continue reading, trusting that clarity and understanding will emerge as they progress through Scripture.

[70:25] Fr. Mike Schmitz: "When you run into something confusing, keep on moving forward. Questions get resolved as you continue."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• On Scripture as God's Living Voice:

  [00:10] "The Bible is not only a document, the Bible is a living thing and it's God's living voice continuing to speak to us."

• On Recognizing Literary Genres:

  [05:30] "There are 73 books in the Old Testament and New Testament, and they are a mix of literary genres."

• On Sacred Author’s Intention:

  [15:45] "We have to try to discover the sacred author's intention... what did Matthew actually mean when he wrote these words?"

• On Allegorical Sense:

  [45:00] "The journey through the Red Sea... is a type of Christ's victory and Christian baptism."

• On Trusting Scripture’s Teachings:

  [60:40] "Put aside skepticism, keep your questions, but trust that God has something to teach you through His Word."

• On Persistence in Reading:

  [70:25] "When you run into something confusing, keep on moving forward. Questions get resolved as you continue."

Conclusions and Takeaways

Father Mike Schmitz provides a comprehensive framework for believers seeking to deepen their engagement with Scripture. By understanding the diverse genres, applying sound interpretative principles, recognizing the multiple senses of Scripture, maintaining an open heart, and persisting through challenges, listeners can more effectively hear and discern God's voice in their daily lives. This episode serves as an invaluable guide for anyone embarking on the journey of reading and understanding the Bible more profoundly.

Join the Journey

As part of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, this bonus episode equips listeners with the tools necessary to navigate Scripture thoughtfully and prayerfully. Father Mike Schmitz invites all to embark on this transformative journey, promising a richer and more meaningful encounter with God's Word.

God bless as you seek to hear His voice through the sacred Scriptures.