The Bitterroot Collegium

Winter 2024

Ruth - God's faithfulness, believers' obedience, love and loyalty

Instructor: Dr. James V. Smith

drjamesvsmith@gmail.com

(406) 361-5455

 

 

The purpose of “The Bitterroot Collegium” is to provide a comprehensive program of Christian education that furthers the vision, values & mission of Mosaic Church, by equipping both the hearts and minds of Christian men and women to be more faithful and fruitful followers of the Lord Jesus Christ.

 

Program Details

 

Classes will meet for one hour per week and will generally continue from 4-8 weeks, depending upon the topic.

Topics/themes will draw from the 4 theological “food groups” including:

 

1. Biblical Theology

2. Historical Theology

3. Systematic Theology

4. Practical Theology

 

Classes will alternate between the “food groups,” while topics will be chosen based on the needs and interests of the Collegium, as well as the vision, values and mission of Mosaic Church.

 

The Biblical origins of creation & life are contained in Genesis 1-11, which scholars call “Primeval History.” Many people are surprised that such important materials are actually brief in relation to the following “Abraham Cycle.” However, the ancient Hebrews were quite content to simply understand that all that God had created was good, and that Evil, as well as evil human choices were the origins of all the pain & suffering in the world. During this 7 week summer study, we will investigate and consider the earliest origin stories in the Bible, while applying their eternal truths to our daily Christian lives.

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Students may engage in three different ways. The first is simply to come to each class. The second is to read the assigned readings & complete the secondary research using a Bible Dictionary and/or the internet, prior to each class. The third is to complete the readings, do the secondary research and complete the focus questions prior to each class.

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Class Notes: