A Rational for the IHOP Bible Study | Reflections on Leonard Sweet's "Post-Modern Analysis"
Leadership
--
The moderator Dr. William Salmon
is a retired UMC pastor after serving 40 years in the active
ministry: Eighteen years in the churches of
the Kansas West Conference; Eleven years on the
administrative staff at Kansas Wesleyan University; The
remaining eleven years with the Institute of Cultural
Affairs and the Ecumenical Institute. With ICA/E.I., he
was assigned to numerous places around the world where he
invented the methods used in this Bible Study.
The Class--
Besides online participation,
several members of the class meet on Tuesday mornings from 7
to 8 a.m. at the Salina IHOP for breakfast. The class members
receive the biblical topic by e-mail through Trinity's list
service, or on Trinity's website. A lively discussion is
held each week, and the class welcomes both men and women new
comers. If you are in the area, please join us for a
face-to-face meeting.
An Interactive On-Line experience--
What is true for those in the
class can also be true for those who study on-line. Since the
material is interactive with Pastor Bill, as well as those on
the list service, opportunities for dialogue are rich and
rewarding.
The Theology or Philosophy
applied--
The methods used for the Bible
Study are refreshing and unique. For too long Christian faith
made objects of their traditional language or code words. This
objectification results in ideas about
God, Christ, Holy Spirit, etc. Since we all have different
ideas ("Head Trip Analysis") the results can be
argued. However, when our old Christian code words are turned
into statements of experience ("Gut Trip
Analysis"), the meaning takes on startling
significance. Everyone can affirm another's experience.
"Gut Trip Analysis" is employed
in this Bible Study.
Details of this approach are available
above in the PDF document, "Old Christian Code Words:
"Head Trip Analysis" vs. "Gut Trip
Analysis."
The Anticipated Outcome--
Each week the class reviews
the assigned scripture and correlates it to a chart of the
current book of the bible. The chart provides a reflective
organization of the scriptures. In this context, the purpose
of the various scriptures is clearly revealed.
At the conclusion of each week's study, the
participants experience a deeper appreciation for the
scriptures. The result is that each participant renews and
applies their faith based on these ancient biblical
archetypes.
Start Anytime—
Currently we are studying John and you are welcome
to start with us now. If you would like to see previous study
guides and comments, they are all available above in PDF
format for downloading. Also available is the book, "Old
Christian Code Words." All materials and study guides are
free as is participation in the Online Bible Study. The only
cost would be breakfast at I.H.O.P. if you so choose to stop
by. |
