How the Protestant Reformers are Still Changing the World

Tag: The Drama of Scripture

Fall Theology Class (2023)

“The New is in the Old concealed, and the Old is in the New revealed.”

Several people have asked, “What exactly is the Theology Study Group all about?” In answer to this probing question, let me present a few photos. Recently one of our students surreptitiously took some pictures right in the middle of class, and I didn’t even notice! I guess I was preoccupied with the subject matter. Here are a few shots of our theology class in action:

This Fall we are studying Biblical Theology (i.e. the great themes of Scripture–Creation, Fall, Redemption, and Consummation), and Hermeneutics (i.e. how to properly interpret the Bible). Our weekly format is to discuss the assigned reading in our textbook, The Drama of Scripture, from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM. We then take a ten minute break with coffee and donuts. Once we come back together we “shift gears” and begin working our way through a passage in the Bible following the method of interpretation that I have taught (10:40 AM-11:30 AM). On this particular week that the pictures were taken we were endeavoring to interpret Hebrews 8:1-13 on how Jesus Christ is our eternal High Priest, and how he has mediated a New Covenant on our behalf. It was a rich passage and the discussion was deep and meaningful.

Typically we have sixteen or seventeen students each Thursday morning. I always bring in beneficial books to “show and tell,” and besides studying we enjoy some sweet fellowship amongst one another. Indeed, a strong bond has been formed, and for that we are all most grateful. If you are in Austin, TX on a Thursday morning, then drop by Redeemer Presbyterian Church and visit our class. You would be most welcome to attend!

— Dr. Marcus J. Serven

Biblical Theology (Fall, 2023)

“You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me.” John 5:39

Theology Study Group – A Course in Biblical Theology

Course Description:
Over the Fall semester (2023) the Theology Study Group at Redeemer Presbyterian Church here in Austin, TX will focus on two important questions in Biblical Theology:

(1) What are the principles for accurately interpreting the Bible? (Hermeneutics)
(2) What are the major themes that emerge from passages in the Bible? (Exegesis)

Each week we will explore a text from the Bible that deals with one of the central themes of Holy Scripture: Creation, Fall, Redemption, and Consummation. By understanding the themes that knit everything together, we will then be better able to interpret and apply individual passages from the Bible.

Instructor:
Rev. Dr. Marcus J. Serven, MDiv, ThM, DMin
Pastor of Christian Discipleship at Redeemer Presbyterian Church (PCA)
(email) mserven@redeemerpres.org

Textbooks:
The Drama of Scripture: Finding Our Place in the Biblical Story, Craig Bartholomew, Michael Goheen, 2nd Edition, Baker Academic, 2014
Redemption Accomplished and Applied, John Murray, Eerdmans, 2015
Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God, J. I. Packer, Revised Edition, IVP, 2012

Who is welcome to attend? All men and women who have a desire to go deeper in theological studies than we can offer in our weekly School of Discipleship. Also, High School and College age students are welcome to attend as long as they are motivated to learn theology at a more advanced level.

When and Where: Beginning on September 14, 2023 we will meet every Thursday morning (except for Thanksgiving Day on Nov. 23) in Calvin Hall (Room 208) at Redeemer Presbyterian Church. This is an “in person” class and students are expected to regularly attend all classes.

For Serious Students: For those who desire to take the class “for credit” towards a certificate, extra assignments will be given: (1) Write a 10 page paper explaining how Jesus’ words in John 5:39-40 should be interpreted. And (2) pass an examination of 25 questions (short answers) on “How to Interpret the Bible” and the contents of the The Drama of Scripture.

— Dr. Marcus J. Serven