First Theology Ireland Course underway
The first ever Theology Ireland course is well underway with over 180 participants drawn from churches across Ireland. An initiative of the fledgling Gafcon Ireland branch, the purpose of the 3–week course is to make accessible, good quality, Bible teaching.
The evening and weekend courses concentrate on the overarching storyline of the Bible, emphasising the unity of the 66 books in its one message and giving course participants confidence in the Bible as God’s word written.
Some who participated said, “Last night was fantastic – real excitement in our car on the way home as had their eyes opened to the Bible”.
Another said “Now that I understand how the Bible works, I’m going to change how I read it.”
The practical effects of the lectures caused one participant to rethink their entire approach to personal devotions: “I’m probably going to throw away my current Bible reading notes – it doesn’t really help me read the Bible properly.”
Dr Peter Orr, a native of Dungannon and lecturer in New Testament at Moore Theological College, Sydney, is the guest lecturer on the courses for lay people and those in ministry or considering ministry. The college is the world’s largest Anglican theological college and provides theological education for both ordinands, missionaries and others.
The course for ministers gave a glimpse into a serious and scholarly approach to contemporary Pauline theology, as Dr Orr examined the ‘New Perspective on Paul’. Over 25 listened intently as he examined the thinking of figures such as EP Sanders and Bishop Tom Wright, critiquing their view of the magisterial reformers’ understanding of St Paul. In addition to these events, the lay readers of Kilmore diocese are having four Theology Ireland sessions to deepen their understanding of the Bible for the purposes of preaching it faithfully.
For further information, please go to www.theologyireland.com
With thanks to Revd Trevor Johnston