The Three R’s
A Spiritual Lesson from the Classroom
This week’s message brought an old schoolhouse phrase into a new light: Reading, Writing, and Arithmetic. But instead of dusty chalkboards and multiplication tables, we were given a fresh look at how these three foundational skills can draw us deeper into the Word of God and into transformed Christian living.
1. Reading – Soak in the Scriptures
Reading isn't just a skill for the classroom—it's essential for the Christian life. The apostle Paul urged Timothy to devote himself to the public reading of Scripture, preaching, and teaching (1 Timothy 4:12–13). Scripture is our source of wisdom, correction, and guide for our spiritual life. It’s God’s communication to us—not just to be admired on a shelf, but opened, studied, and lived out. “You can’t just hold it to your head and expect it to get in there!”
2. Writing – God’s Word Recorded for Us
The act of writing is vital for communication—and God knew this. Through prophets and apostles, He had His Word written down so there would be no confusion about His will. Jeremiah 30:2 reminds us: “Write in a book all the words I have spoken to you.” From ancient oral cultures to today’s digital age, writing preserves truth and ensures it is passed down with accuracy and care.
3. Arithmetic – Adding It All Up
While the word may feel out of place, arithmetic is more than numbers—it’s about logic, understanding, and how truths build on one another. Scripture adds up; it tells one cohesive story. From Genesis to Revelation, God’s message is consistent. The truth is universal—every tribe, nation, and language can understand it because God made sure it all adds up (Revelation 7:9).
The Christian Three R’s
Repent, Redeem, and Restore—a second set of “R’s” for every believer.
> Repent
Turning from sin is not just a one-time event, but a lifelong posture. Ezekiel 18 reminds us that God takes no pleasure in anyone’s spiritual death. He urges us to turn from our own way and embrace a new heart and a new spirit. Repentance is like a U-turn—it realigns us with God’s direction.
> Redeem
Jesus Christ paid the price to set us free from sin. We were spiritual slaves, unable to free ourselves, but through His blood we are redeemed (Ephesians 1:7). No amount of self-fixing could ever get us clean enough—only Jesus can do that.
> Restore
God is not only in the business of saving, but also restoring. Like a classic car brought back to life, our spirits can be renewed and our joy restored. Psalm 51 calls out, “Restore to me the joy of your salvation.” Whether we’ve drifted, been wounded, or simply grown weary, God can restore us and make us steadfast once again (1 Peter 5:10).
Bottom Line
Are you living out the Three R’s? Not just the ones from the classroom, but the ones that transform hearts. Dive into Scripture. Turn back to God. Share your story. And let God restore what was broken—because as part of the Restoration Movement, that’s what we’re all about: getting back to God’s design, not man’s traditions.