Lay Bible Institute

Christian denominations that use a lectionary read the Bible more extensively in church than those that don’t have a lectionary. In this workshop, visiting Exegetical Theology Professor Dr. Vilson Scholz explores the Three-Year Lectionary (2022-23 Series A) used in Lutheran congregations. Scholz will demonstrate how the lessons for each Sunday “talk to each other” and will highlight how the lessons for each Sunday illustrate the principle of Scripture interpreting Scripture. The focus of this workshop will be the post-Pentecost season of Series A.

Our Lord often quoted the Psalms and said that they testify about Him (Luke 24:27; John 5:39). In doing so, Jesus confirmed the psalter’s prophetic witness about Himself as Israel’s coming Messiah. In this workshop we will consider how the psalter’s arrangement contributes to the Psalms’ rich picture of the Christ as Triumphant King, Royal Son, Suffering Servant, Priestly Mediator and Leader of Praise to the Father. We also will explore some of the manifold ways we hear the Christ speaking in the Psalms as He identifies with sinners, announces God’s grace to them, and enjoins them to join Him in prayer, praise and thanksgiving to God.

Today mental health struggles affect so many people, draining their energy and joy for life and undermining their confidence. People rightly look for medical and psychological treatment to help them in such struggles. Yet, as researchers are recognizing more and more, a large component of these struggles is spiritual, and people need spiritual care and healing too. In this workshop we will draw on the long Christian tradition of care and comfort to those in mental distress, looking into Scripture, as well as gaining insights from Martin Luther and his pastoral care of those with mental struggles.