Self-Directed Christian Learning:
Just What You Need Know Now to Grow Spiritually
Our congregation has long been known for its commitment to the best, cutting-edge Christian education. In addition to our many study opportunities in groups and classes during the year, we have a unique Theologian in Residence program that brings outstanding scholars to us on a regular basis.
Now, we are creating the opportunity for each of you to tailor your individual Christian learning according to your unique needs. Contact Keith Thompson to get the materials (revkeitht@comcast.net or 303-907-2206). He can also assist you at each stage of your study.
Here are examples from one resource—The Faith and Reason DVD Series—which has 52 half-hour DVD programs, each featuring two well known scholars:
- The Nature of God (Martin Marty & Tex Sample)
- What is the Kingdom of God? (John Dominic Crossan and Craig Evans)
- What made Jesus, Jesus? (Marcus Borg & Charles Kiblinger)
- Does it really matter what I do in today’s world? (Amy Jill Levine (Jewish) & Walter Wink)
Here are examples of studies from another resource—The Thoughtful Christian—which has hundreds of brief papers sorted into six areas:
- I. In the News—What’s Happening with Our Economy?
- II. Bible and Theology—What Do United Methodists Believe?; When and Why the Bible Was Written; The Gospel of Judas; What is Sin?
- III. Popular Culture—Books: The Shack, The Da Vinci Code; Movies: Crash, Little Miss Sunshine, Brokeback Mountain, Juno
- IV. Contemporary Issues—Creationism, Evolution, and Intelligent Design: What’s a Christian to Believe?; Is Torture Ever Justified?
- V. Spirituality—Introduction to Spiritual Disciplines; Older Adult Spirituality; Wesleyan Spirituality; Forgiveness; Children’s Spirituality
- VI. Christian Living—Grieving Well; Listening for God’s Call; Talking to Your Child about Sex; Preparing for End-of-Life Matters