Thomas R. Rhudy
3923 Postridge Tr.
Melbourne, Fl. 32934
Request for Consideration Regarding Adult Bible Study
Format
To
Whom It May Concern:
Please
pardon my naïveté, but I am not entirely certain of the PCA’s organizational
structure as it relates to adult Bible classes. I raise this simply to ensure
that my request is directed to the appropriate individuals.
I
understand that Pastor Woody serves as the teaching elder, while the ruling
elders appear to oversee the Bible classes. With that understanding, I am seeking
guidance as to whom this request should properly be addressed.
I
think that I also recognize the rationale behind covering the Westminster
Confession of Faith at a brisk pace to ensure that each section is addressed
within a 50-minute session. I find this unfortunate.
Previously,
I shared concerns with several leaders, including John Roberts, regarding the
current pace and structure of the adult Bible classes. My understanding is that
only one Sunday has been allotted to each section of the material. While the
content itself is rich and important, the pace at which it is being presented
does not appear to allow sufficient time for thoughtful discussion and
engagement by those attending.
In
my view, the material has thus far been delivered in a manner more akin to
vocational training than to a classic university-style approach aimed at deeper
formation. Ideally, such a study would foster:
- A
fuller understanding of the Christian faith,
- An
apologetic perspective that equips attendees to respond to questions from
the non-Christian community, and
- Greater
confidence in engaging thoughtfully with challenging contemporary cultural
issues.
I
suggested, if it were not feasible to expand or “unbundle” the current
sessions, a few alternatives for consideration? One option would be to provide
session notes to participants a week in advance and then adopt a more Socratic,
discussion-oriented approach during class time. Another possibility would be to
reserve 10–15 minutes at the conclusion of each session for questions and
discussion, with the presenter using that time, if needed, to summarize and
reinforce key points.
In
lieu of modifying the current program, may I suggest that, at some point,
consideration be given to offering an adult Bible study in which the WCF is
more fully contextualized and explored, with two or more classes devoted to
each section where appropriate. While some portions may not require extended
treatment, others would likely benefit greatly from additional time.
As
it stands, the current format does not seem to allow adequate time for
discussion of these profound and formative topics. Many questions remain
unasked, and those that are raised often cannot be explored in depth.
Establishing a dedicated time for questions-either within the class or through
another forum-would, I believe, be of great benefit to parishioners.
If
these concerns are already being addressed elsewhere, I would appreciate being
notified.
Thank
you for your time, your leadership, and your consideration.
SDG
Tom
Rhudy
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