Certainly there is great value in a written record. But I can't see separating writing and teaching, especially in subjects of any complexity or depth, that cannot be fully reduced to a fixed set of symbols/concepts.
For exmple: Mathematics is the "language" with the greatest claim to precision, yet even its written word is no guarantee of communication of knowledge, writer to reader. If you 'know' E=MC^2, do you 'know' the Theory of Relativity? Even after the publication of the Special and General Theory of Relativity, it's said only three people understood it for the first decade.
Knowing the words (formula) and 'knowing' are two different things. The written word has tremendous value; however, it alone does not magically result in knowing in the reader.
Writing down and correct teaching - person to person communication by all possible media - cannot be separated.
thanks for your post.
That's a good point. Knowledge is more than book knowledge. When Paul speaks about knowledge, he is speaking about experiencing something. Thus, the "knowing" of Christ is more than reading about the Gospel narratives, and why atheists get nothing from this "knowledge".
Regards
... Knowing the words (formula) and 'knowing' are two different things. The written word has tremendous value; however, it alone does not magically result in knowing in the reader.
Yes, I agree with you. I don't think we could expect anyone to "get it" if we just locked him in a room for six months with a Bible. Teaching has great value. I don't think this view offends Sola Scriptura. That doctrine says that the Bible is the only and final authority. So, it comes down to what is actually taught. If it is consistent with scripture, then it is "good" teaching, etc. I think the differences that Catholics and Protestants have are more around "what is consistent with scripture". :) On this issue it appears there are huge differences, because of the different interpretations. So, I would say that both sides actively encourage and practice oral teaching.