Thursday Night Bible Study: Fall 2017

Saul2Paul: A New Study on Romans

On Thursday, September 21, 2017 at 7:30 p.m, Jeffersonville Presbyterian will begin a new Bible Study Series. We will explore the letter Paul the Apostle wrote to the Christian Church in Rome, and how it relates to the Christian Church today.

“Saul2Paul” is a Romans inspired blog written to the Christian Church today to inspire and ignite congregations to be Christ in a broken world. Take the journey through this enriching and exciting study!

Click here for Bible Study Materials and Links

Then and Now:

ROME, 56-57 AD: Nero was Emperor of Rome. Politics were corrupt and divisive; religion was pragmatic and based on the principles of correct practice of ritual, prayer and sacrifice. The two-tiered social structure was based on heredity, property, wealth, citizenship and freedom.  The upper class consisted of aristocratic landowners and government officials, while most of the people in the lower class were slaves. Criminals, debtors, and prisoners of war were often condemned to slavery. Immorality prevailed in the Roman Empire. Sexual sin in the form of prostitution, pederasty, and adultery was common. There were also high rates of divorce and murder.  Education began at the age of around six, and in the next six to seven years, boys and girls were expected to learn the basics of reading, writing and counting. Poor children could not afford education. Christianity was new and disregarded as a cult. Animosity to Christians was frequent and persecution was allowed.

USA, 2017 AD: Donald Trump is the President of the United States. Politicians are corrupt and divisive; religion is denominational fragmented, with doctrinal arguments on works vs. faith and “do and don’t” practices.  The social structure is based on heredity, property, wealth, and citizenship. The upper and middle classes consist of privileged landowners, politicians, sports heroes, professionals and celebrities; the lower classes consist of blue-collar laborers, farmers, retail workers and welfare recipients. Immorality is prevalent. Sexual sin, embezzlement, cheating and false representation are common. There are high rates of divorce and murder.  Education begins around the age of five, where children begin to learn the basics of reading, writing and arithmetic. Wealthy children, and children in wealthier school districts have a more privileged and enriching education. Lower classes utilize less funded public schools, where reading is barely taught and the drop out rate exceeds 60%.  Christianity has been sidelined and animosity toward “organized religion” is frequent and divisive.

 


Date/Time
Date(s) - Sep 21, 2017
7:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Location
Jeffersonville Presbyterian Church