How do we know that public reading of God's Word is important?

Public reading of God's Word is essential for congregational worship and instruction. In Nehemiah 8, Ezra reads the Book of the Law to the people, emphasizing that the Word of God must be read distinctly and explained to foster understanding. Paul reinforces this practice in his letters to Timothy, urging him to devote himself to the reading and preaching of Scripture as a means to nourish the church. This demonstrates the collective responsibility of the congregation to engage with Scripture, allowing the Holy Spirit to work through the written Word to transform lives and guide the church.