approaches to scripture

APPROACHES TO SCRIPTURE

HisStory and Facts – Part 2

Saint Anne Adult Forum

PERSONAL REFLECTION

Why do we read/study the Bible?

To different degrees, most of us believe that it:1. Tells the story of God’s relationship with

mankind

2. Informs us about how we can enter into a closer relationship with God

3. Guides us in how God would have us love, and live with, those around us

HOW ELSE DO WE KNOW GOD AND HIS LOVE?

Scripture

Tradition

Reason / experience

ScriptureTraditionReason / experience

HOW DO WE KNOW GOD AND HIS LOVE?

Reading ScriptureSermons, commentaryFellowship / relationshipsNature’s beautyMeditationPrayerServing others

A child’s loveHymns and worshipStudying Scripture

Art worksLiturgy

Example of othersBeing cared for

SETTLEMENT OF THE CANON - OT

THE 3-LEGGED STOOL – APPLIED TO SCRIPTURE

Scripture – what does it say?

Tradition – how is it traditionally understood?

Reason / experience – how does it fit within what else I know, understand, see in my life?

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN TO ME?

Do you think there is a difference between factual and true?How does it make you feel when “evidence” seems to

contradict something in the Bible?How do you reconcile these contradictions? How does this

affect your faith?What do you do when you encounter someone with a

different opinion or approach?Has your approach changed over the years?Does it make Christianity stronger or weaker when Christians

believe different things?Lesley Hazelton said “Doubt is essential to faith.” What do

you think?

One point or insight to share

UPCOMING SCHEDULE

Jan 19Budget review – Community roomJan 26Annual meeting – sanctuary

Feb 2, 9 What the Bible says about money

Feb 16, 23 Stories of creation