Introduction

It is important for the Christian to be able to read and understand the Bible. But the two don't necessarily follow - reading doesn't automatically lead to understanding - at least an understanding that is true to the text. We can probably all give examples of people who have used the Bible to defend their point of view, against others who use the same Bible, sometimes even the same passages, to argue the opposite point.

The purpose of our 'Using the Bible' course is to give each of us a better understanding of how to read, understand and use the Bible in our daily lives. No previous knowledge is needed or assumed - if there is anything you don't understand just ask (you can do this in person or by using the 'comment' feature on this web site.

It is hoped that this web site will fulfil a number of functions. For those attending the course it will provide additional material that we could not cover in the various sessions throughout 2008. It will also be the place to download audio material and course notes if you want to go over sessions again. No doubt questions will come to mind after a session has finished, or as you do some further study...this is the place to ask those questions (you can do this anonymously if you wish!) so others can benefit from your questions as well has have the opportunity to provide their answers.

For those who can't participate on the course in person - this is also the place for you. Each month further material will be added so that you can keep track of what we're studying - and you too can take part in online discussions.

If there is one book that I would recommend (as well as a Bible) to complement this course it would be 'How to read the Bible for all it's worth' by G.D. Fee and D. Stuart. Copies will be available to purchase throughout the course. Alternatively it can be purchased from Wesley Owen online here.

Dates for all the sessions are given below. (They are all Thursday evenings, starting at 7.30pm).

1. 10th January 2008 What is the Bible?
2. 14th February 2008 Biblical Letters.
3. 13th March 2008 OT Stories.
4. 10th April 2008 Gospels.
5. 8th May 2008 Poetry.
6. 12th June 2008 Wisdom.
7. 10th July 2008 Prophets & Prophecy.
8. 11th September 2008 Visions & Apocalyptic.
9. 9th October 2008 Law & Ethics.
10. 13th November 2008 The Relationship between the OT & NT.
11. 4th December 2008 The Authority of the Bible.

If you also want to keep up to date with our conversations on Sunday mornings you may want to visit my blog at www.milkandnosugar.blogspot.com