Objectives & Class Schedule

Welcome to “Listening to Scripture,” an in-class and on-line discussion of interpreting Scripture conducted by the Growing Families class at Northlake Church of Christ. Our objectives are to:

• Understand some key principles that frame the interpretation of Scripture

• Discuss insights on interpretation and context, to help us challenge assumptions and bring a fresh perspective to our reading

• Review some of the different forms of Scripture to help appreciate the richness of divinely inspired/human written Scripture

• Read passages together and discuss insights and applications

A couple of points are important to note right up front:

1. Interpreting Scripture differs from interpreting the Bible. The former involves a life-long process of living from the text, while the latter views the Bible as just another interesting book. As believers we are committed to living our interpretation beyond the discussions of a Sunday school class or blog.

2. We need each other to do this. Our interpretation is a conscious effort of spiritual growth, and growth needs the nurture of Christian community. The Christian community provides insight, example, encouragement, and counsel vital to shaping our understanding of Scripture and thus our Christian character.

The following schedule outlines the path of our discussions:

June 3 Introduction & Key Principles

June 10 The Epistles

June 17 The Epistles

June 24 Acts

July 1 The Gospels

July 8 The Prophets

July 15 Psalms

July 22 Revelation

July 29 Review & Reflection

Any and all open-minded, respectful comments and questions are welcome in this forum. We hope you join our discussion, and look forward to seeing you at 9:00 am on Sundays.