Each semester, the Institute offers biblical studies courses for students and non-students who want to examine the biblical texts. Our classes range from the indepth study of a book from the Bible to an examination of the entire Old or New Testament to classes instructing students in Greek. Join us for these richly rewarding, engaging small classes in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Currently, there is no academic credit for courses offered through the Institute.

Fall of 2008: Introduction to New Testament Greek 1

Teacher: Peter Burton BA(Sydney), MDiv(Gordon-Conwell)

For Christians, no body of literature is more important than the documents collected in the New Testament. As God's inspired testimony to the ministry and significance of Jesus, they have remained at the heart of Christian devotion, liturgy, mission, and thought for nearly two thousand years. These ancient texts, now read in hundreds of languages, were originally composed in Koine Greek. In this first course (of a two course series), we will begin to master the elements of this fascinating and picturesque language and learn how to use that knowledge to uncover some of the New Testament's greatest treasures.

The class will aim at developing the student's ability to read and translate the New Testament with confidence and competence (we'll be reading actual NT texts by the second session!). Along the way, students will be introduced to basic Greek Bible study methods as well as a host of tools no biblical student's library should be without. The course is designed for the absolute beginner but is also well suited for anyone needing a structured refresher. So come join us as we enhance our ability to love God with all our mind by learning to "cut a straight path" (2 Tim. 2:15) through His Word!

This course will meet for 15 sessions, starting Tuesday, September 2 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Location TBD. 

The cost is $100.00 per student plus the price of the textbook. 

For more information or to register, contact
Peter Burton:
email: pburton@umn.edu
phone 612 636 2335

Fall 2008: Introduction to Biblical Hebrew 1

Teacher: Peter Burton BA(Sydney), MDiv(Gordon-Conwell)

The importance of the Old Testament is beyond doubt for an understanding of God, the world and our place in it. Modern translations often differ, especially in vocabulary and style, and sometimes in content. To be able to read the ancient text of the Bible enables us to gain a stronger understanding of who God is, the world he has made, how we are to live in it and the life to come. Therefore let us encourage each other, according to our abilities and callings, to know what we can of the Bible in the ancient languages.

Almost all of the Old Testament was first written in Hebrew. The rest was in Aramaic. This is the first of a sequence of two courses for beginners in Biblical Hebrew. Absolute beginners, others who have had a false start, those who are "rusty", and any who would like to improve their ability to read Biblical Hebrew aloud are all welcome to take part. One of the hurdles in learning Hebrew is to master the different consonant and vowel signs. Special care is taken in this course to enable each student to read Hebrew text.

While the course will be adapted to the actual students, there will be a progressive systematic introduction of Hebrew grammar and common vocabulary, mixed with learning to comprehend and read aloud short sections of Biblical Hebrew using recordings of professional Israeli voice actors. Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and Leviticus 19:18b ("the Shema") is worth knowing by heart and will be taught in this way. In the Gospels Jesus pointed to the Shema as the sum of the Law. By learning the meaning of the Hebrew, students would see how it really does cover the whole Law. Other selections will be taken from the beginning of Genesis.

There are 12 evening sessions from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m, starting September 8. No classes will be held on October 6 or 14, or November 24. If you would like to take this course but cannot attend at these times, please contact Peter Burton.

Location: TBA

The cost is $100.00 per student plus the price of the textbook, notes and recordings.