Heart & Mind
Bethel Seminary San Diego Reaches Out to Neighbors
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y Patty Thomson, Editor, Bethel Investor
Bethel Seminary San Diego offers a unique opportunity to its neighborhood and nearby churches: theological education in a casual, Bible study format. During the past three years, the Dean’s Bible Study and other courses taught by professors have grown in popularity. Fall studies this year have dealt with Bible interpretation; the body of Christ; and art and the Bible. “The study aims to provide serious students of the Bible an opportunity for Bible study that is more in-depth than what is typically available in the church context,” explains Bethel Seminary San Diego Dean John Lillis.
Each weekly, 90-minute session includes a presentation by a seminary-level instructor, with time for questions and interaction. Lillis stresses that the classes are designed to supplement, not supplant, local church teaching and worship efforts. “By providing opportunity for this type of laity in the churches, Bethel intends to come alongside the church and help in the development and mobilization of its members for more effective ministry in communities, neighborhoods, and the marketplace.”
The courses hold broad appeal and reflect diversity in cultural, ethnic, and church backgrounds, as well as age and gender. Discounts are given for couples and students.
The dean notes that attendees appreciate the “life-focus” emphasis of the lessons. “We not only look seriously and in-depth at what the text is saying to its own time and culture, but we also wrestle with the significance and demands the text places on our life today.”
In January, Bethel Seminary San Diego will offer the Dean’s Bible Study and other study courses by a new name: Laos, a Greek word often used to describe the people of God.
“The Dean’s Bible Study has definitely contributed to building awareness of Bethel Seminary San Diego by bringing a host of people in our doors who have never visited before or who have never even heard of us,” observes Lillis. “In addition to increasing interest in the mission of Bethel Seminary San Diego, it also has helped to communicate the message that the seminary has something for those who are not preparing for ministry.”
Why would a busy faculty member – or seminary dean – take on the added time and responsibility required by such a class? “In addition to my love of teaching and administering graduate-level theological education, I love to study, teach, and preach the Word of God in non-academic settings,” Lillis reflects. “I also love Bethel Seminary San Diego and the unique outreach that we have. The study provides a terrific opportunity to spread the word about that ministry.”
Some of the courses require a fee to cover materials or entrance passes. For more information, visit the Bethel Seminary San Diego webpage.