Making Sense of the Bible

About this event

Ever wish you had a better framework for understanding the Bible?

In Making Sense of the Bible by Adam Hamilton, we’ll explore some of the big questions people bring to Scripture: how it was written, how it’s been interpreted, and how it connects to our lives today.

Drawing from the United Methodist tradition, we’ll look at how Christians have used Scripture alongside reason, tradition, and experience to make meaning of their faith. Along the way, we’ll talk about challenging passages, explore different perspectives, and practice reading the Bible with curiosity and depth.

Whether you’re new to the Bible or have grown up with it, this is a chance to engage it in a fresh, thoughtful way that actually connects to real life.

The readings for the entire semester are outlined below. Materials are provided.

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Week 1

Introduction + Ch. 1

What Is the Bible? Inspiration, authority, and how we received the Scriptures.

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Week 2

Ch. 2

How Do We Read the Bible? Literal, historical, literary, and theological interpretation.

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Week 3

Ch. 3

When the Bible Is Difficult: Contradictions, errors, and troubling passages.

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Week 4

Ch. 4–5

The Old Testament Story : Covenant, law, history, violence, and understanding God's character.

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Week 5

Ch. 6

Creation, Science & Faith: Genesis, evolution, and faith in conversation with science.

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Week 6

Ch. 7

Suffering, Miracles & Prayer: Wrestling with some of life's hardest questions.

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Week 7

Jesus and the Gospels: Understanding the New Testament through Christ.

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Week 8

Ch. 9

Paul and the Early Church: Difficult teachings and their context.

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Week 9

Ch. 10

Heaven, Hell & the End Times: Judgment, eternity, and hope.

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Week 10

Conclusion + Questions

Making Sense of the Bible Today: Bringing it all together and discussing remaining questions.

From Wesley Foundation