Christians are persons who no longer seek their salvation, their deliverance, their justification in themselves, but in Jesus Christ alone.
They know that God's Word in Jesus Christ pronounces them guilty, even when they feel nothing of their own guilt, and that God's Word in Jesus Christ pronounces them free and righteous even when they feel nothing of their own righteousness...
Because they daily hunger and thirst for righteousness, they long for the redeeming Word again and again. It can only come from the outside. In themselves they are destitute and dead. Help must come from the outside; and it has come and comes daily and anew in the Word of Jesus Christ, bringing us redemption, righteousness, innocence, and blessedness. But God put this Word into the mouth of human beings so that it may be passed on to others. When people are deeply affected by the Word, they tell it to other people. God has willed that we should seek and find God's living Word in the testimony of other Christians, in the mouths of human beings. Therefore, Christians need other Christians who speak God's Word to them. They need them again and again when they become uncertain and disheartened.
Biblical Wisdom
Remember your leaders, those who spoke the word of God to you; consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. Hebrews 13:7
Questions to Ponder
Where do disciples go to satisfy their daily hunger and thirst for righteousness?
If Christians find their salvation, deliverance, and justification not in themselves but in Jesus Christ, how should they use their resulting freedom?
If God has put God's word into the "mouth of human beings," who is responsible to speak the word? Only pastors or church workers? Why?
Psalm Fragment
On the glorious splendor of your majesty,
and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.
The might of your awesome deeds shall be proclaimed,
and I will declare your greatness.
They shall celebrate the fame of your abundant goodness,
and shall sing aloud of your righteousness. Psalm 145:5-7
Journal Reflections
Write about specific Christians who have spoken a word from God to you when you needed it.
Write about people to whom you have spoken God's word.
Intercessions
Think of someone you would like to be a spiritual friend with and ask God to help you build a mutually supportive spiritual relationship with him or her.
Prayer for Today
O Holy Spirit, send the people I need to bring me the word of God, and send the people I need to speak the word of God to.
40-Day Journey with Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Copyright © 2007 Augsburg Books, imprint of Augsburg Fortress.
