Quakers have a deep reverence for the Bible and often refer to various scriptures to guide their faith, practice, and decision-making. Here are some key scriptures that Quakers frequently reference:

Foundational Scriptures:

  1. John 1:9: “The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” (Quakers emphasize the Inner Light, the divine spark within each person.)

  2. Matthew 22:37-40: Jesus’ summary of the Law: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind… Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Quakers prioritize love, compassion, and social justice.)

  3. Isaiah 58:6-12: “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice…?” (Quakers emphasize the importance of social justice, equality, and compassion.)

Guidance for Decision-Making:

  1. Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Quakers seek guidance from God in decision-making.)

  2. James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” (Quakers value wisdom, discernment, and seeking God’s guidance.)

  3. 1 Corinthians 2:9-10: “But, as it is written, ‘What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived’ the things God has prepared for those who love him these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit.” (Quakers believe in the importance of spiritual discernment and revelation.)

Social Justice and Equality:

  1. Leviticus 19:34: “The foreigner residing with you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt.” (Quakers emphasize the importance of welcoming and loving strangers, and promoting social justice.)

  2. Micah 6:8: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” (Quakers prioritize justice, mercy, and humility.)

  3. Galatians 3:28: “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Quakers emphasize the importance of equality, unity, and breaking down social barriers.)

These scriptures, among others, guide Quaker values, practices, and decision-making, emphasizing the importance of love, justice, equality, and spiritual discernment.

References:

  • The Bible (NIV)

  • Quaker Faith and Practice (Britain Yearly Meeting)

  • The Quaker Book of Wisdom edited by Philip Gulley

  • L. Sergius Ephson

  • Hill House Meeting

  • Quaker tradition, discerning God’s will

  • Meditation and Quaker expectant listening.