I’m preparing a course on how to read the bible for my church this spring. It will go for 8 weeks and aims at two things. First, helping people learn tools for better reading the bible in personal study and devotional reflection. Second, helping people gain perspective on the bible that would help in discerning between myriad voices inside and outside the Church claiming to speak for the bible’s position on a given subject. Here’s the course title and description that will be rolled out on our church website and in promotional material first thing in 2008:
“Hearing the Word: Tools for Deeper Understanding”
Want to develop a better ear for hearing God’s voice in Scripture? This course aims to equip you for greater depth in your personal bible reading and study, and for better discernment in listening to the various positions among people inside and outside the Church who claim to speak for the Bible’s position.
So, I’d love some input if anyone has it. For the preachers out there, how do you address these two issues related to your reading and study of the bible in your preparation for preaching and teaching, and in your own spiritual formation and growth as a disciple?
For the laypersons out there, how do you address these two issues related to your reading and study of the bible in your spiritual formation and growth as a disciple? For your ministry in your church?
Guy M Williams 
Hey Guy,
Rebecca and I taught an 8 week ‘how to read the bible’ kind of thing for Mercy Street back in the spring – Rebecca came up with the name: “B.S.L. – Bible as a Second Language”. If you’re interested in seeing what we did – let me know. and hey, maybe we could actually sit down over a cup of coffee and swap notes. :)
peace,
Sean
hey Sean,
You bet I’ll take you up on that. Hope things are well.
peace…