Course Introduction
The Apostle Paul is undoubtedly one of the most significant and influential figures in Christian history. He tells us we should imitate him – and many of us try to! But we know little about him, other than what we can discern from his letters, and these aren’t always easy documents to decipher. Misunderstandings, misinterpretations, and misappropriations abound, leading to a vast array of conjectures about Paul’s ideas and personality, as well as a whole host of unhelpful – even harmful – attempts to emulate him and his teachings. So how should we read and follow Paul? Where do we even start?
Paul offers his own suggestion. When writing to the Corinthians he says that he resolved to know and preach nothing other than “Christ crucified.” Something about the vision of Jesus on the cross captured his imagination so fully that it reshaped his theology, his character, his ministry, and the whole course of his life.
This course offers you the opportunity to approach Paul’s letters afresh, exploring the ways in which his vision of Christ crucified emerges as the formational principle behind Paul’s whole spirituality, and which can become the compelling foundation for our own discipleship today.
Session Plan
- Session 1: Paul’s Vision: Christ Crucified
- Session 2: Paul’s Gospel: Saved by Cruciformity Alone
- Session 3: Paul’s Ministry: Cross-shaped Apostleship
- Session 4: Paul’s Ethics: Living a Cruciformed life
Course Structure
After our initial week introducing the text, our approach will involve a blend of teaching input, group exercises & discussions, and prayerful responses. With the aim of providing fresh perspectives and deeper understanding of his teachings, this course is designed for those who are passionate about Paul, puzzled by him, or even put off by him.
This Course will run again in the future!
Register your interest here:
