THE PLACE OF SCRIPTURE IN THE LITURGICAL ASSEMBLY: EXEGESIS OF NEHEMIAH 8:1–12
This paper examines the central role of the Scripture in the liturgical assembly using the text of Nehemiah 8:1-12 as a foundational text. It argues that contemporary Christian worship has, in some contexts, witnessed a gradual decline in the centrality and authority of the word of God. This is due to the rise of motivational, entertainment-driven, or prosperity-oriented messages. Through exegetical study of Neh 8:1-12, this paper demonstrates that the postexilic assembly under Ezra presents a model in which the Scripture is publicly read, carefully interpreted, reverently received, and practically applied. Drawing from the principles of historical biblical exegesis and supported by selected theological scholars, the article concludes that authentic liturgical renewal is inseparable from restoring Scripture to its rightful central place in worship.
Keywords: the gate, the assembly, Levite, the wooden platform, understanding.