YES!!! Until relatively recently (i.e. around the Reformation) the only way laymen (and laywomen) could get their dose of Scripture was to have it read to them. I believe there is something to be said to be literal “hearers of the word” as James discusses in his opening chapter. I’ve read the Bible cover to cover 3 times, the New Testament I don’t even know how many times, carious books even more times, and other passages, chapters, and verses even more times. I love reading the Bible - but I have also always enjoyed hearing it read. Whether it be on Sunday morning or in a Bible study, having to listen has motivated me to pay closer attention to what is being said.

Now, that is me. And some of that probably has to do with the fact my mind wanders as I read. I will have read three chapters before I realize I had been daydreaming about something some verse a while back triggered in my imagination and will have to go back and read it all again hoping my mind does trail off again. Which it usually does. Something about having stories read to me allows my mind to be transported to the setting being read. It actually tames my imagination like ti creates a playpen for it to play in.

Anyway, no offense to James Earl Jones, but I’ve gotten my hands on some of the more updated audio bibles and I am so impressed. There are two versions out now that are incredible. The Bible Experience (TNIV) is the entire Bible where as the Word of Promise (NKJV) is only the New Testament. If you are looking for something to make the Scriptures just come alive and speak to you like you didn’t think possible, I highly recommend downloading either one of these (I’m listening to the Word of Promise right now), finding some solitude, sticking some headphones in your iPod, and be moved by God’s word being spoken into to you. It is amazing!