Making Sense of the Bible: The Story of a Book
Your Instructor
PhD in Humanities
Emory University
A teacher, scholar, and administrator in higher education for over thirty years, my odyssey begins in the Appalachian Mountains and now finds me at home in the City of Angels. In between I have encountered a number of gods and monsters but have always looked for ways to wisdom for myself and others. Trained in interdisciplinary humanities, I have taught courses in literature, philosophy, and religious studies in small liberal arts colleges, regional universities, and Research I institutions. Since 2000 I have created and taught courses online at several universities, including Rutgers, Maryland, and Walden. Publications include articles and books on Native American literature, postmodernism, literature and theology, and other interdisciplinary topics. Currently, I write and teach a few courses and am especially excited about Thicket.
What you'll learn
Explore the Bible's influence in culture
Acquire biblical literacy by articulating its unique features
Understand the Bible's development from orality to text
Explore the many facets of the Hebrew Bible
Interpret the New Testament in light of its origins and uses
Analyze biblical interpretation
Course Schedule
We begin by exploring the Bible as a complex cultural artifact rather than just a religious text. I highlights the irony that while it is a global bestseller, many people who revere it possess a significant degree of biblical illiteracy and rely on verses that do not actually exist. In fact, the first lesson is that the Bible itself does not exist. By examining statistical trends, I note a decline in biblical literalism among Americans, who increasingly view the book as a collection of inspired myths or fables. We can understand and appreciate the Bible as an academic study that considers its historical context, linguistic development, and various cultural interpretations. Through this lens, the Bible is revealed as a tool often used for political rhetoric or personal growth rather than a single, static message.
What You Get
Live interactive sessions
Engage in real-time discussions with expert instructors
Small discussion groups
Up to 15 students for personalized attention
Session recordings
Review and revisit class content anytime
Dedicated platform
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Frequently asked questions
Course-specific questions
Your Instructor
PhD in Humanities
Emory University
A teacher, scholar, and administrator in higher education for over thirty years, my odyssey begins in the Appalachian Mountains and now finds me at home in the City of Angels. In between I have encountered a number of gods and monsters but have always looked for ways to wisdom for myself and others. Trained in interdisciplinary humanities, I have taught courses in literature, philosophy, and religious studies in small liberal arts colleges, regional universities, and Research I institutions. Since 2000 I have created and taught courses online at several universities, including Rutgers, Maryland, and Walden. Publications include articles and books on Native American literature, postmodernism, literature and theology, and other interdisciplinary topics. Currently, I write and teach a few courses and am especially excited about Thicket.