Two New Book Studies at First Pres.

Next week we begin two new book studies for Lent.


Beginning Wednesday evening, March 4th, we will read and discuss Marcus Borg's 2003 book, The Heart of Christianity. This is one of my favorite books by Borg as he looks at the Christian tradition as a whole and offers a view that speaks to the heart of progressive Christianity.



From Publisher's Weekly:

...it provides a valuable glimpse into the essence of Christianity for those who have left the faith because they no longer believe its doctrines and those who are trying to remain in the faith while questioning its doctrines. With those people in mind, Borg emphasizes the transformational aspect of Christianity by examining the "emerging paradigm" that is gradually replacing the belief-centered paradigm of the last several hundred years.

We will meet in the library from 6 pm to 7:15 every Wednesday during Lent. Childcare will be provided. Pick up the book and read the introduction and the first two chapters. Anyone is welcome!

The second study begins Thursday, March 5th from 10:30 until noon, also in the library.



We will read and discuss Barbara Rossing's book, The Rapture Exposed.



For those who wonder what this Rapture doctrine is all about and who have ever puzzled over the Book of Revelation, this is for you.

From The Center for Progressive Christianity:

Barbara Rossing, who teaches New Testament at the Lutheran School of Theology in Chicago, calls the ‘Rapture’ phenomenon a “destructive racket.” She writes that her book is for those who are concerned about the “simplistic” misinterpretation of the Biblical script by the “whole prophecy industry of Tim Le Haye, Hal Lindsey and others.” It is her conviction that dispensationalism must be challenged today “both because of its false theology and also because of its growing influence on public policy.” To counter this distortion and manipulation of Christian faith, she provides an interpretation of the Book of Revelation which provides “a vision of hope for God’s healing of the world.”

Please read the first chapter. Join us at First Presbyterian Church of Elizabethton and invite a friend.

For either study, click for questions or to RSVP.