Scripture Reading

Definition and Meaning

Scripture reading (bongdok, 奉讀) is the part of worship in which a biblical text is read aloud. The Korean term bongdok means "to read with reverence," expressing an attitude of receiving the Bible as the Word of God. Ordinarily, the passage that serves as the text of the sermon is read. It is often distinguished from the responsive reading, in which the leader and the congregation read in alternation.

Biblical and Historical Background

The Old Testament records that Ezra read the book of the Law before the people and explained its meaning (Nehemiah 8:1-8). Jewish synagogues had a tradition of reading from the Law and the Prophets, and Jesus read from the book of Isaiah in the synagogue at Nazareth (Luke 4:16-21). The New Testament contains instructions for apostolic letters to be circulated and read among several churches (Colossians 4:16), and Paul urged Timothy to "give attendance to reading" (1 Timothy 4:13).

In the second century, Justin Martyr recorded that at the Sunday gathering the memoirs of the apostles or the writings of the prophets were read, after which the presider gave an exhortation. Later, the lectionary developed: a list of passages appointed for each season, fixing in advance the texts to be read according to the church year.

Practice in Korean Churches

• Most churches, including Presbyterian, Methodist, Holiness, Baptist, and Full Gospel churches: One or two passages from the sermon text are usually read after the representative prayer and before the sermon. The reading may be led by the worship leader or the preacher, or the congregation may read together. The text is often printed in advance in the church bulletin or displayed on a screen. Lay members such as elders, deacons, or young adults may also serve as readers.
• Churches that emphasize liturgy, such as the Anglican Church of Korea and the Lutheran Church in Korea: Readings often follow the lectionary, with passages from the Old Testament, the Psalms, the Epistles, and the Gospels read in sequence. It is customary for the congregation to stand for the Gospel reading, and after the reading, responses such as "The Word of the Lord" are exchanged.
• Other churches: Some churches, including Methodist churches, also consult the church year and the lectionary in choosing texts.
• Translations: Most churches use the New Korean Revised Version, while some use the New Korean Standard Version or the Common Translation. The Anglican Church of Korea is reported to have used mainly the Common Translation in its liturgy.