Religion   

Fear is an emotion permeating all strata of life, no less religions. The theorist, Machiavelli, claimed fear is an effective emotion for control. As humans are involved in religion, fear became embedded in their teachings. Because of time constraints, this presentation will focus on fear in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam (people of the book).

This class reveals the astonishing history of six kings of Judah, two of whom were deemed righteous and noble and their successors just the opposite to the extreme.  Three were godly and promoted their faith in combating paganism and idolatry; three were evil incarnate and supported practices that encouraged idolatry in many forms.  This study of contrasts, like all of history, contains useful lessons for all.  Join us for a riveting look at six memorable historical figures that occupied thrones.

In a day and age when being young, poor and a female meant that a person didn't have much of a chance to become anything important, a Hebrew girl was chosen to be the subject of art, music, literature and possibly the most well-known and adored woman in history. Her name was Mary and she was chosen to give birth to the savior of the world. What made her stand out? How did she feel seeing his miracles, hearing his teachings, watching him die and seeing him resurrected? "Mary" will share from her heart what's revealed in the books of Matthew, Luke and Acts.

Reading the Bible critically is needed to understand ancient writers and why they wrote. In one session, this class introduces basic concepts in the unique work of Genesis, like the quality of texts, source theory, reflecting on fact vs. truth, literalism vs. storytelling, etc. This isn’t school at church or synagogue. While being faith affirmative, the class is not seeking to affirm doctrines, traditions, or personal beliefs. If you believe in the inerrancy of scripture, you will NOT find this course helpful.

Reading the Bible critically is needed to understand ancient writers and why they wrote. In three sessions, this class introduces basic concepts about gospel editors and their sources, exploring other movements of the 1st century as well as who Jesus thought he was and what he intended to do. This isn't church school. While being faith affirmative, the class is not seeking to affirm doctrines, traditions, or personal beliefs. If you believe in the inerrancy of scripture, you will NOT find this course helpful.

There are two interpretive schemes in understanding the Bible in the Christian world. A basic knowledge of the differences between a Covenant and Dispensational hermeneutic (general biblical interpretation) will help in understanding why there are differences in understanding some biblical passages among Christians. This class will analyze these interpretive schemes with more of an emphasis on dispensational theology which the teacher believes is the correct hermeneutic.