A Bible Class For Bible Skeptics

A path through biblical skepticism, a refreshing approach to Scripture, and useful tools for faith reconstruction.

What you'll learn
Learn how to understand and effectively address common critiques of the Bible.
Develop a new understanding of the nature of the biblical texts.
Learn how to identify new approaches to "problematic" biblical passages (e.g. slavery, misogyny, violence, etc.)..
Discover a renewed interest in the value and trustworthiness of the Bible.
Find a path through biblical skepticism and take steps towards faith reconstruction.

Requirements
No advanced biblical training is required. Familiarity with common Evangelical conceptions of Scripture is helpful.
Access to a modern translation of the Bible to look up referenced passages is required.

Description
Do you struggle to trust the Bible's authority? Do the weird laws, disturbing stories, and confusing claims of scripture lead you to doubt or skepticism? Are you stuck in your journey of faith? If so, this class is for you. This Bible Class for Bible Skeptics is not be about apologetics or trying to convince you not to doubt. Instead, this class is a safe, honest exploration of common critiques of the Bible and a possible path forward in the midst of your skepticism.Join pastor Barry Rodriguez as he explores how the Bible came to be, questions of inerrancy and reliability, uncomfortable issues such as apparent misogyny and the "wrath of God," and biblical claims which seem to contradict modern science and culture. In the course, Barry shares insights he has discovered from 25 years of biblical study, world travel, and wrestling with his own faith skepticism. Each of the four sections of the class include:One "big idea" proposing a new way of thinking about the BiblePossible new approaches to "problematic passages" based on those new ways of thinkingResponses to FAQs, such as inerrancy, the reliability of biblical manuscripts, etc.Reflection assignments, further biblical texts to explore, and simple comprehension quizzes Introductory and concluding lecturesAll are welcome to join the conversation. The only requirement is an open mind. If you are stuck on your journey of faith deconstruction, this may just be the first step in helping you start building once again.