The class time will be spent discussing select portions of the book written by Richard Stearns, Pres. of World Vision, The Hole in Our Gospel. It will include the defining of words like wealth and poverty, neighbor and stranger, and asking ourselves questions like; What does it mean to pick up our cross, (Luke 9)? Is Ephesians 2:8 simply a state of mind or a one time prayer? How might seeing the poor through God's eyes change our view? What do we have to offer in terms of "time, treasures and talents."
Between Malachi and Matthew, the evolution of the world into which Jesus was born.
Lyle Peter
Meets in Southwest Basement
Matthew’s world was fundamentally different than that of Malachi, and it was Matthew’s world in which God inserted the incarnate Christ. This class briefly explores the social, political, and religious developments in the Mediterranean world between the two testaments, and why that may be important to us today.
Session 2 – July 4, 11, 18, 25, August 1
God’s delicate touch and the anthropic principle
John Bjorkstam
Meets in Fellowship Hall
The great scientist Sir Francis Bacon said, “God gave us two books and we should read them both; the Bible and nature.” In such passages as Psalm 19 and Romans 1 we are told that God has revealed Himself through His creation. In this class, we will look at the many incredible details which had to be satisfied in order for the earth to exist and have an environment suitable for human life. The observation by the scientific community that the universe appears to have been designed for the specific benefit of the human species is referred to as the ANTHROPIC principle. In addition to Scripture, our primary references will be as follows: 1) Hugh Ross, Why the Universe is the Way it Is (Baker Books, 2008) & 2) Peter B. Ward and Donald Brownlee, Rare Earth (Copernicus Springer-Verlag, 2000).
Singing hymns of praise
Bob Lepse
Meets in Sanctuary
Join us to harmonize on: hymns that help us praise God, music that helps us pray, songs that “permeate our souls with timeless veracities of Scripture.” Trios, quartets and choruses will add variety. Come and sing praises to God.
Creation care
Frank Troth
Meets in Southwest Basement
We will explore a biblical, holistic approach for caring for creation, both nature or the environment and all of humanity. We will explore what the Bible says about God and creation (Jesus Christ's relationship to all of creation, God as creator, creation declares God's glory, what God desires for his creation), and the interrelationship between creation and humanity.We will also look at our opportunities, joys and responsibilities in today's world, and conclude with God's future kingdom: a New Creation.
Session 3 – August 8, 15, 22, 29, September 5
Martin Luther
Ralph Graves
Meets upstairs in Admin Building
Martin Luther's responses to the theological crises of his time altered the course of European history and influence Christian belief even today. The drama of his life and the outspoken clarity of his writings demonstrate the power of faith in the search for spiritual truth.
How to share your faith without fear
Mark Wheeler
Meets in Fellowship Hall
Ever wanted to share your faith with a friend but got tongue-tied? Ever bring up the subject of Jesus and wind up in an argument instead? Would you like to know how to deal with objections? Would you like to feel comfortable and be able to share your faith with anyone? If your answer is “Yes,” then join us.
The cross and the crescent
Rob Wingfield
Meets in Southwest Basement
What is the difference between a Shiite and a Sunni? How did Islam originate? What do Muslims believe? Where do the Crusades fit in the equation? How do you share the gospel with a Muslim? These and other questions will be considered in the class on understanding Islam.
United Evangelical Free Church offers several ABFs or Adult Bible Fellowships on Sunday mornings at 9:45. Each one functions as something of a “mini-church” overseen by a leadership team. The emphasis is on “community”—with teaching, prayer, fellowship, and shepherding all taking place to various degrees. The groups are large enough to include several spiritual gifts so as to facilitate effective one-to-another ministry. Some are age or “life-stage” related; others are more open and intergenerational, while still others are topical in nature.
QFT - Our college/career group. Crossings - Individuals, couples, and families in their 20s - 40s, whose children, if they have some, range from preschool to high school. Living Branches - Individuals, couples, and families in their 30s - 50s, whose children, if they have some, range from elementary school to college. Bridge Builders - Individuals and/or couples in their 50s & up.