Friday, January 18, 2013

Discussion Questions: What to look for in "Epistles: Learning to Think Contextually"

 1) The advice of the authors that we need to find the literal and historical backgrounds hinges on the principle in the introduction, which says that the text can never mean what it never meant originally.  Is it ever okay to read into the text?  If so, when can it be?  For instance, I've heard it said, "Jesus is the greater Moses who rescued humanity from slavery."  If the Gospel authors never believed that, is that a legitimate statement?

2) For a deeper attempt to critically examine the question above, read Matthew 1-2.  Are there events described about Jesus that parallel the life of Moses?  If you believe so, do you think this makes the statement above about Jesus and Moses legitimate?  But, if the author had non-historical intentions, like making parallels between Jesus and Moses, can that narrative in Matthew be historically doubted?

3) For fun, and in keeping with the structure described on 56-57, practice writing your own "real letter".  Length is irrelevant.  We'll share in our next meet!

Saturday, January 12, 2013

Discussion Questions: What to look for in the Intro

1) Why do the authors say that everyone who reads the Bible is an interpreter?
    Do you agree?

2) What about the nature of scripture demands that we interpret it?
    Do you agree with that???

3) Pertaining to the Bible, what is inerrancy, infallibility, and authority?
    What do the authors say that challenges your notion of any of those things, whether you believe in the   divine inspiration of the Bible or not?

4) Remember how the authors use 'exegesis' and 'hermeneutics'.  Those words will come up all over our bible study.

Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Study schedule


New Testament Epistles: Paul
Schedule:
Jan Week 1: Introduction to the Bible Study

Jan Week 2: How To Read the Bible For All Its Worth: Introduction

Jan Week 3: How To Read the Bible For All Its Worth: Epistles: Learning to Think Contextually

Jan Week 4: How To Read the Bible For All Its Worth: Epistles: The Hermeneutical Questions
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Term Week 1: 1 & 2 Thessalonians

Term Week 2: 1 Corinthians

Term Week 3: 2 Corinthians

Term Week 4: Galatians

Term Week 5: Romans 1-8

Term Week 6: Romans 9-16

Term Week 7: Colossians & Philemon

Term Week 8: Ephesians

Term Week 9: Philippians

Term Week 10: 1 Timothy

Term Week 11: Titus

Term Week 12: 2 Timothy