The concept of "Call to Hear and Tell" in the Bible emphasizes the importance of listening to God's word and proclaiming it to others. This theme is woven throughout Scripture, highlighting the responsibility of believers to both receive divine revelation and share it with the world.

Hearing God's Word

The Bible frequently underscores the necessity of hearing God's word. In Deuteronomy 6:4, the Shema begins with the imperative, "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is One." This call to hear is not merely about auditory reception but involves understanding and obedience. The Berean Standard Bible captures this essence in Romans 10:17: "Consequently, faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ." Here, hearing is linked to faith, suggesting that true hearing involves a response of trust and belief.

In the New Testament, Jesus often calls His followers to listen attentively. In Mark 4:9, He says, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear." This call is a challenge to discern spiritual truths and apply them to one's life. The parables of Jesus, as recorded in the Gospels, serve as a means to reveal deeper truths to those who are willing to hear and understand.

Telling God's Word

The responsibility to tell or proclaim God's word is equally emphasized. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 commands believers to "Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you." This directive underscores the duty of believers to share the gospel message with others.

In the Old Testament, the prophets were often called to speak God's word to the people. Isaiah 6:8 records the prophet's response to God's call: "Here am I. Send me!" This willingness to tell God's message, even in the face of opposition, is a hallmark of faithful service.

The apostle Paul exemplifies the call to tell in his missionary journeys, as seen in Acts 20:27 : "For I did not shrink back from declaring to you the whole will of God." Paul's commitment to proclaiming the gospel, regardless of personal cost, serves as a model for all believers.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in both hearing and telling God's word. In John 16:13 , Jesus promises, "But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all truth." The Spirit aids believers in understanding and applying Scripture, empowering them to share it effectively with others.

The Community of Believers

The call to hear and tell is not limited to individuals but extends to the community of believers. In Colossians 3:16 , Paul exhorts the church: "Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom." The mutual encouragement and teaching within the body of Christ ensure that the message of the gospel is both heard and proclaimed.

Conclusion

The biblical call to hear and tell is a dynamic process that involves receiving God's word with an open heart and sharing it with others in obedience to Christ's command. This dual responsibility is foundational to the life of faith, as believers are called to be both hearers and doers of the word (James 1:22).