America Reads the Bible is taking place in Washington, D.C., at the Museum of the Bible with the purpose of reading the Bible from Genesis to Revelation over a period of seven days ending Saturday.
Jody Hice, senior fellow at Family Research Council (FRC), was one of the readers for the event. He is also the Friday host of “Washington Watch,” and he spoke with regular show host Tony Perkins, saying not only was the reading a very special event but a spiritual one too.
“I think we all know that our country was founded on biblical principles, and we have strayed far, far away from that. The Word of God is alive, is active. It penetrates the heart, and (lacking that) really is the problem where we are right now as a country,” Hice states.
House Speaker Mike Johnson led off the event last Saturday, Fox News reported. He claimed this time as a rededication of the nation to the founding principles of the country, something more than symbolism, even sharing his own personal testimony.
Critics note how unusual this was previous house speakers were either uncomfortable, unable or just didn’t do it.
“To have Speaker Johnson there, who not only is reading the Bible, but it is who he is. He is a genuine believer and an individual who shares a biblical worldview and is trying to bring that within the realm that God has entrusted to him now as Speaker of the House,” Hice says. “It’s just remarkable.”
More than 500 participants are reading the Bible, with the event having the participation of over 100 ministries and public figures — including President Donald Trump — from politics, entertainment and media.
Jenna Ellis, Buddy Smith, Debbie Wuthnow, Walker Wildmon and Wesley Wildmon are American Family Association (AFA) representatives scheduled to read.
“This is a critical time in our nation's history. It's like a crescendo of both evil and righteousness all at the same time that's coming up. And now, I think more than ever, the importance of believers embracing and living out loud the Word of God is critical,” Hice states.
On the eve of the event Trump commemorated 250 years of the Bible in America, giving best wishes and applauding those participating. He recapped important historical events, national figures, and their connection with the Bible in building the nation, stating that “in every generation, through every trial and triumph, God’s Word has guided our people and our country to incredible new heights.”
Hice points out there are several places in scripture where the Bible or “law” was read publicly.
“But one of the most profound is in 2 Kings 22 and 23, where the Word had been lost, very much like where we are in the country now. It was found, then it was read publicly, and revival resulted,” Hice states. “That's what happens when we return to the Scripture, and it has potential national implications.”
Trump is scheduled to read 2 Chronicles 7:11-22 between 6-7 p.m. ET this evening. In the verses, the Lord speaks with King Solomon after the king finished building the Temple about humbling oneself, turning from wicked ways and walking faithfully.
As for this event, Hice says that he is just praying and believing.
“Who knows where this is going to lead us as a country and what kind of impact, but we know God's Word never returns void. It is being read publicly across this country, coming out of this nation's capital. I think it's a very significant event,” Hice said.
Editor's Note: American Family Association is the parent organization of the American Family News Network, which operates AFN.net.
