SEARCH RESULTS

In this issue Spring Semester & Seminars - Begins January 21, 2025 New 3J Exhibit - "The Time of Abraham" Digging the Bible - Visit Shiloh, Israel this Summer Support TBS - Your donations help make all we do possible! TBS News Audio Version Spring Semester Registration for the Spring semester is open! Enroll as a certificate or graduate student, audit ($395 per class), or attend a seminar ($89 per person) to broaden your knowledge, deepen your faith, and train for godly leadership. Don’t miss out—secure your spot today! Spring Semester begins Monday, January 21, 2025 . Visit TheBibleSeminary.edu and click Get Started . Spring 2025 Courses ARC 501  – Archaeology & Methodology | Tuesdays   | 9:00 AM | with  Dr. Chris McKinney Audit , Certificate , or Graduate GRK 502  – Greek Language & Cultures | Mondays & Thursdays   | 8:45 AM | with Dr. Matt Glassman Audit , Certificate , or Graduate PAS 501  – Pastor-Shepherd I | Wednesdays   | 9:00 AM | with  Dr. Pat Ryan Audit , Certificate , or Graduate THE 501  – Theology I | Tuesdays   | 3:00 PM | with Dr. Craig Evans Audit , Certificate , or Graduate THE 511  – Church History II | Fridays   | 9:00 AM | with  Dr. Israel Loken Audit , Certificate , or Graduate Spring 2025 Seminars Egyptology Seminar with  Paige Brevick Friday, February 14, 2025  | 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. $89 per person Register Today! * Limited capacity *In-Person, Online, or On Demand The End of the World as We Know It: Marvel Comic Movies and Biblical Apocalypse with  Dr. Israel Steinmetz Saturday, April 5, 2025  | 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM at The Bible Seminary $89 per person Register Today! *In-Person, Online, or On Demand New 3J Exhibit Opening All three tablets on display derive from Ur III, the city where Abraham lived when he first rejected polytheism and embraced Yahweh as the only true God. The New Testament opens with this verse: “This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah—the son of David, the son of Abraham.” The TBS 3J Museum proudly announces the opening of the World of Abraham exhibit. Come learn about literacy in ancient Mesopotamia through three cuneiform tablets from Ur III, Abraham’s hometown. Lamps, juglets, and magic bowls round out the new exhibit. Guided tours are available on request. The exhibit opens February 1. Digging the Bible this Summer The Shiloh Excavation is one of ABR’s most important research projects. The Tabernacle stood at Shiloh for 300 years, where the people of Israel gathered to worship. This is where the Ark of the Covenant resided! We have a number of core goals for the Shiloh dig: Investigate the location of the biblical tabernacle and any associated structures. Uncover evidence of the biblical sacrificial system. Understand daily life in Israel at the time of the Conquest and the period of the Judges. Introduce the new technologies of wet-sifting and computerization in the field. Equip students and volunteers with the knowledge and skills needed to scientifically excavate in the Land of the Bible. Build on the regional understanding of life in the Highlands of Israel gained by ABR's previous excavations at Khirbet Nisya (1979-2002) and Khirbet el-Maqatir (1995-2016). GIVE  by dropping a check by the office , by mail, or donate  online. Flexible options include the following:   One-Time   or   Recurring   Donations Charitable IRA Rollovers  (tax-free gifts directly from your IRA) Donor Advised Funds  (for flexible giving with immediate tax benefits Donate by Mail The Bible Seminary, 23501 CINCO RANCH BLVD, STE H120-930, KATY TX 77494-3109 Join us in praying and fasting monthly on 2nd Tuesdays for TBS financial provision! Category Oct 2024 Nov 2024 Dec 2024 Monthly Income $54,112 $110,017 $167,247 Monthly Expense $85,380 $83,390 $92,759 Monthly Balance -$31,268 $26,627 $74,488 Cumulative Balance* -$391,330 -$364,703 -$290,215 * Cumulative Balance since post-Covid-19 shortfall incurred during 2021-22 fiscal year. Our goal is to fully replenish all accounts and provide a strong financial position for achieving TRACS 10-year Reaffirmation of Accreditation scheduled for a vote by the accrediting commission in April 2025.. Update your contact information with TBS NOW is the perfect time to update your contact information. Doing so allows us to keep you informed about important updates, events, and opportunities that matter to you. Confirm how we can best reach you and share information you desire. Thank you! The Bible Seminary (TBS) is an independent, non- denominational, 501(c)(3) charitable institution of higher education incorporated in Texas in 2010 to offer training for laity and vocational ministry professionals. TBS is an Accredited member of the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) and the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA), a member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), a participant in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA) for Distance Education, and an approved CEU provider for the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). Goals include helping nurture a biblically literate populace via comprehensive, strategic, Bible-based training through classes and seminars, museum exhibits, productions and publications, and archaeological digs and study tours. “They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people could understand what was being read.” - Nehemiah 8:8 Campus 2655 S MASON RDKATY TX 77450-1772 Mailing 23501 CINCO RANCH BLVD STE H120-930KATY TX 77494-3109 E-mail: info@TheBibleSeminary.edu Phone: 281-646-1109 Office Hours : Mon-Fri, 9 AM - 4 PM

In this issue Spring Semester & Seminars - Begins January 21, 2025 Great Gift Ideas for Christmas - Books by TBS students and staff TBS Hits the Road - Exploring Oklahoma, Dallas, and California The Archaeology of Christmas - by Dr. Scott Stripling Giving Tuesday Recap - TBS Student Stories Spring Semester Registration for the Spring semester is open! Enroll as a certificate or graduate student, audit ($395 per class), or attend a seminar ($89 per person) to broaden your knowledge, deepen your faith, and train for godly leadership. Don’t miss out—secure your spot today! Spring Semester begins Monday, January 21, 2025 . Visit TheBibleSeminary.edu and click Get Started . Spring 2025 Courses ARC 501  – Archaeology & Methodology | Tuesdays   | 9:00 AM | with  Dr. Chris McKinney Audit , Certificate , or Graduate GRK 502  – Greek Language & Cultures | Mondays & Thursdays   | 8:45 AM | with Dr. Matt Glassman Audit , Certificate , or Graduate PAS 501  – Pastor-Shepherd I | Wednesdays   | 9:00 AM | with  Dr. Pat Ryan Audit , Certificate , or Graduate THE 501  – Theology I | Tuesdays   | 2:00 PM | with Dr. Craig Evans Audit , Certificate , or Graduate THE 511  – Church History II | Fridays   | 9:00 AM | with  Dr. Israel Loken Audit , Certificate , or Graduate Spring 2025 Seminars Egyptology Seminar with  Paige Brevick Friday, February 14, 2025  | 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. $89 per person Register Today! * Limited capacity *In-Person, Online, or On Demand The End of the World as We Know It: Marvel Comic Movies and Biblical Apocalypse with  Dr. Israel Steinmetz Saturday, April 5, 2025  | 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM at The Bible Seminary $89 per person Register Today! *In-Person, Online, or On Demand Great Gift Ideas for Christmas Looking for unique Christmas gifts? The  TBS Bookstore   has a wide selection of books that truly offer something for everyone—from inspiring devotionals to thought-provoking theological works. Surprise your loved ones with a meaningful gift they’ll treasure a lifetime. Shop  now to find the perfect present and make this Christmas unforgettable! Visit the TBS Bookstore today! New Book release by TBS Alum Jacob Figueroa on the TBS Podcast. TBS Hits the Road! Armstrong Auditorium in Edmond, Oklahoma Left to Right: Gary Urie, Carol Scott, Dan Yi, Dan Lawless, Cynthia Mazique, Hadassah Yi, Joanna Yi, Allison Taylor, Jeff Young, Janet Fischer, Anita Murrillo, Meredith Ridenour, Rebekah Yi, Niki Lainhart, Emmylia Lainhart, Hezekiah Yi Thu, Nov 7, 2024:  TBS students, alumni, and families toured the “Kingdom of David and Solomon Discovered” exhibit on display at the Armstrong Auditorium in Edmond, Oklahoma. Participants traveled from across the U.S. from California, Kentucky, Oklahoma, Texas, and other states for an afternoon of fellowship and enrichment. The displays were phenomenal with beautiful backdrops, informative tour guides, 3D depictions, and virtual reality experiences. The tour included a glimpse of textiles and dyes of the ancient world and artifacts such as the Ophel pithos  and Tel Dan Stele   (which is on short term loan for viewing from the Israeli Museum). The pithos was found at the Temple Mount and is believed to have been an incense vessel from the Queen of Sheba . The stele was recovered at the Tel-Dan excavation in 1993 and is the first artifact which lends reference outside of the biblical narrative to the ‘House of David’  and provides extra biblical support for the historical accuracy and validity of the Bible. Institute for Creation Research in Dallas, Texas Dr. Stripling participates in a panel at ICR Conference in Dallas, Texas Sat, Nov 9, 2024: Dr. Scott Stripling presented “The Evidence for the Historical Jesus” and “Jesus and the Ritual Purity Culture” at the Biblical Archaeology Conference: Unearthing the Historical Jesus hosted on the campus of the Institute for Creation Research (ICR) in Dallas, Texas. With 200 in attendance, Dr. Stripling shared an understanding of the culture and discussed historical aspects of archaeological finds. The conference ended with a panel discussions and question & answer session with fellow presenters Dr. Randall Price and Dr. Jim Johnson. ETS Conference in San Diego, California Wed – Fri, Nov 20–22, 2024 : TBS faculty, staff, students, and alumni attended the Evangelical Theological Society’s (ETS) annual conference at the Marriot Marquis Marina in San Diego, California. Near East Archaeological Society (NEAS) sessions included a presentation by TBS Provost and NEAS President, Dr. Scott Stripling, entitled “A Proposed Identification for Silu in EA 288.”  Dr. Craig Evans, who will be joining The Bible Seminary in Spring 2025, presented with Pieter van der Veen “The Mount Ebal Lead Inscription: Does it contain the Divine Name YHWH?” This was followed with Dr. Stripling and Dr. Evans teaming together on “Did the Swine drown at Gergesa? Another look at Mark 5:1 in the Light of Text and Topography.” NEAS and ETS enjoyed record attendance this year, helping to bring more light to TBS and the work we are doing to illuminate biblical texts. TBS Adjunct Professor Dr. Melissa Davis also attended and presented a “Practical Theology: Studies in Biblical Worship” session presentation on “Worship as Moral Formation.” This was the second year TBS hosted a booth at ETS. With the growth of The Bible Seminary’s Nehemiah Press in conjunction with our faculty’s previously published writings we had the opportunity to bring more exposure to our authors and to publishing opportunities. Allison Taylor, Marketing Director, and Emma Clodfelder, Student Services Coordinator, along with assistance from students Dan Lawless, Ryan Wood, Janet Fischer, and Jeff Young shared with over 250 visitors about TBS, NEAS, opportunities to explore ancient Israel on an archaeological dig, and showcased artifacts on display from the Joshua, Judges, and Jesus (3J)  museum. The Archaeology of Christmas by Dr. Scott Stripling Joseph journeyed to Bethlehem, his ancestral home, with his espoused wife Mary to participate in a mandatory census (Luke 2:3). In the ancient Near East, a family’s historic ties to their hometown was of upmost importance. The custom of the time would have dictated space be found in the family home for Joseph and his family upon arrival in Bethlehem.  A typical first century house - the katalumais on the second level. The fenstrated wall represents the location on which stone carved mangers are typically found. Image courtesy of Leen Ritmeyer Further, with Mary close to giving birth, the ladies in the family would have likely given her special attention. Mary had relatives nearby in the “hill country of Judea” (Luke 1:39). With Jesus being born “while they were there” (Luke 2:6), there may have even been time for alternative arrangements if Bethlehem had been unwelcoming.   Although the text does not mention a barn, the manger ( phatna ) is prominent (Luke 2:7, 12, and 16). Stone-carved mangers were common on the ground floor of domestic structures in Israel throughout biblical times. The practice of keeping animals in the house was common. While flocks were kept in sheepfolds out in the fields (see Luke 2:8), valuable or vulnerable animals – ox, donkey, sick or pregnant sheep and goats – would be brought into the house’s ground floor domestic stable. Doing so protected these valuable animals from harm from wild animals or theft. Often, they were kept in a room with a fenestrated  “window” wall. Such was the place where baby Jesus would have been laid in a manger.   Luke records that “there was no room for them in the kataluma”  (Luke 2:7). The only other New Testament mention of  kataluma  was as the upper chamber “guest room” of a Jerusalem house where the Last Supper was held (Luke 22:11). Luke’s use of the term,  kataluma  (“guest room”) in 22:11 is the same word translated “inn” in 2:7 on the first night of Jesus’ life. Luke indicated that there was no room (or space) for them in the “guest room” of the house where Mary and Joseph were staying. The NIV’s 2011 revision, acknowledged this fact, changing “inn” to “guest room” (2:7).   A fenstrated wall in 1st century archaeological ruins. Photo courtesy of Tommy Chamberlin Luke knew what a public inn was, using that term in the account of the Good Samaritan at an “inn” ( pandocheion ) in 10:34 with an “innkeeper” ( pandocheus ) in 10:35. His use of  kataluma indicates a different space – the “guest room” of a house. A careful examination reveals no barn or innkeeper in the text. Instead, it suggests that baby Jesus was placed in a manger on the ground floor of a Bethlehem house – probably surrounded by family – because the upstairs “guest room” was already full. Giving Tuesday Recap Click to watch all of the TBS Student videos from the day. On December 3, 2024, we shared the heart of TBS through powerful stories from our students, staff, faculty, and alumni. It was a meaningful day filled with inspiration and connection. Thank you for supporting TBS and helping impact lives through faith and education. Your generosity helps make all the TBS does possible and helps make a lasting difference in people's lives! You may continue to GIVE  anytime between now and December 31. Drop a check by the office , give by mail, or donate  online. Flexible options include the following:   One-Time   or   Recurring   Donations Charitable IRA Rollovers  (tax-free gifts directly from your IRA) Donor Advised Funds  (for flexible giving with immediate tax benefits Donate by Mail The Bible Seminary, 23501 CINCO RANCH BLVD, STE H120-930, KATY TX 77494-3109 Join us in praying and fasting monthly on 2nd Tuesdays for TBS financial provision! Category Sep 2024 Oct 2024 Nov 2024 Monthly Income $58,916 $54,112 $110,017 Monthly Expense $94,956 $85,380 $83,390 Monthly Balance -$36,040 -$31,268 $26,627 Cumulative Balance* -$360,062 -$391,330 -$364,703 * Cumulative Balance since post-Covid-19 shortfall incurred during 2021-22 fiscal year. Meeting the Giving Tuesday goal would fully replenish all accounts and provide a strong financial position for achieving TRACS 10-year Reaffirmation of Accreditation scheduled for a vote by the accrediting commission in April 2025.. Update your contact information with TBS NOW is the perfect time to update your contact information. Doing so allows us to keep you informed about important updates, events, and opportunities that matter to you. Confirm how we can best reach you and share information you desire. Thank you! Audio Version The Bible Seminary (TBS) is an independent, non- denominational, 501(c)(3) charitable institution of higher education incorporated in Texas in 2010 to offer training for laity and vocational ministry professionals. TBS is an Accredited member of the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) and the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA), a member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), a participant in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA) for Distance Education, and an approved CEU provider for the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). Goals include helping nurture a biblically literate populace via comprehensive, strategic, Bible-based training through classes and seminars, museum exhibits, productions and publications, and archaeological digs and study tours. “They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people could understand what was being read.” - Nehemiah 8:8 Campus 2655 S MASON RDKATY TX 77450-1772 Mailing 23501 CINCO RANCH BLVD STE H120-930KATY TX 77494-3109 E-mail: info@TheBibleSeminary.edu Phone: 281-646-1109 Office Hours : Mon-Fri, 9 AM - 4 PM

Written by Angela McClinton (TBS MDiv 2019) serves Development Director and an adjunct instructor at TBS and can be reached at Angela.McClinton@TheBibleSeminary.edu .  In partnership with The Grace and Mercy Foundation based in New York City, The Bible Seminary (TBS) launched weekly Public Reading of Scripture (PRS) on September 11, 2023. Hosted on campus (with a free lunch!) and online on Mondays, participants enjoy high quality audio dramatized recordings of several Old and New Testament passages and two Psalms, summary insights of the day’s passages, fellowship, and prayer.    The practice is inspired by the Apostle Paul’s exhortation in 2 Timothy 3:16, “Until I come, devote yourselves to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.” Similar PRS events are held weekly around the world. So far, TBS has launched one in English at TBS and helped launch another in Spanish at a local church.  “Public reading of scripture has been such a gift to my husband, Austin, and me,” says PRS @TBS attendee Tessa Kellam. “We plan our Mondays around PRS to make sure we don’t miss it! Being able to listen to extended passages of scripture in a public setting is something I never experienced before, even growing up in church.”   Four key pillars make PRS sustainable and enjoyable.  One , we meet on a regular basis  in keeping with the reminder in Psalm 1:2 to meditate on the Word of God day and night, as well as to establish the practice as part of our natural life rhythm.  “ I desire to return every Monday because I simply love to hear the TRUTH,” says Jeff Smart. “Every time Scripture is read, I seem to take away a very practical application. ”  Two , PRS participants enjoy  listening to (not just reading) the Bible  using one of the highest quality audio drama Bibles available.   “ To see and hear Scripture engages both my heart and mind,” says Jeff’s wife, Bette. “We are fed lunch and God’s word feeds my soul. We always learn something we had not noticed while reading the Bible in the past. PRS keeps blessing us.”  Three , PRS happens in community  with other participants.  “ I love PRS because of the community we have while hearing God’s Word,” notes Adam Fithen, Senior Pastor of Friendship Church Assembly of God in Richmond, Texas. “I started attending because of my friendship with Blake Quimby and have met many others I now call friends.”  Four, we read the entire Bible in context , not just our favorite parts, in obedience to Jesus’s commands to live by every word that comes from God (Matthew 4:4).  “I love the insights that Dr. Stripling, Dr. Steinmetz, and Dr. Lewis give about the passages,” Kellum exclaims. “Context is everything! Having such knowledgeable and credentialed instructors paint the biblical scene for us and give additional information has been so educational.”  More than 125 people from across the U.S. and Canada have attended at least one PRS@TBS. Total weekly attendance averages 36, with just over 30 in-person attendees each week and 25 who have attended regularly since inception. Recent sessions have exceeded 40 and continued growth and possible expansion to a larger venue seems likely. Participants include members of the TBS family, as well as local pastors, ministry leaders and staff, and business and community leaders. Lunches are catered from local establishments, including Chicken Salad Chick, Ephesus Mediterranean Grill, El Jarrito Mexican Restaurant, Hat Creek Burgers, Olive Garden, Red River BBQ, and more.  Several staff members from Church on the Rock, a large bilingual church in Katy, Texas, attended PRS@TBS, and eventually inquired about hosting a Spanish version at their church.  According to Senior Pastor Jorge Cardenas, “ PRS in Spanish has been an extraordinary answer to our prayers. Our people love it, including participants in Colombia, Mexico, Nicaragua and El Salvador who tune in faithfully via Zoom along with our in-person attendees.”  Join PRS @TBS on campus or online most Mondays (except holidays) from Noon to 1 PM (CST). If you would like to host PRS in your own context, contact me for more information.  If you would like to host PRS in your own context, contact Angela McClinton ( Angela.McClinton@TheBibleSeminary.edu ) for more information. Audio Version

Written by Grace Fox a Master of Arts in Biblical History and Archaeology student at TBS. I accepted Jesus as my personal Savior at age six when my mother led me to the Lord at our home in northern Ireland where our family served as missionaries. Through homeschooling, my parents offered unwavering support and proved instrumental in guiding my academic pursuits through the lens of a Biblical worldview.  As I grew in my love for the Creator, I developed a keen interest in exploring His creation. I found science intriguing; appreciated those scientific method of ensuring evidence was observable, testable, and repeatable; and observed ample evidence that science harmonizes with the Bible.   I studied biology as an undergraduate and focused my research on development and regeneration. My doctoral studies centered on neuroscience, mostly investigating learning and memory. I recently shifted my focus from basic sciences to applied work in pharmaceuticals, including evidence synthesis, pricing and reimbursement, and value communication. As part of my continued interests across scientific disciplines, I am currently enrolled in graduate training in biblical archaeology at The Bible Seminary  with a goal of leveraging my background in identifying, synthesizing, appraising, and communicating to help further demonstrate the historicity of the Bible.   Of all my research over the years, one project that clearly seemed to declare God's glory involved investigations of cell assembly organization in the brain. Originally published in Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience in 20161 and revised below, I pray this evidence will strengthen your faith in the Creator.  Amidst the 86 billion cells forming 100 trillion connections in the human brain, cognition emerges. To put this into perspective, imagine a city with 86 billion residents and 100 trillion roads connecting them. This is the level of intricacy and organization in the human brain. We learn, process, and store information from this seemingly random organization of neurons and supporting cells. Owing to this complexity, scientists have long searched for the basic building block of neural circuits—a computational barcode that is repeated throughout cortical and sub-cortical regions. During the last decade, I was a part of the team that proposed and tested the  Theory of Connectivity , a mathematical rule for organizing neural circuits. The theory postulates that within each computational building block or functional connectivity motif (FCM), the number of principal projection cell cliques with distinct inputs should follow a power-of-two-based permutation equation of N = 2i-1. N  is the number of distinct neural cliques that can cover all possible permutations and combinations of specific-to-general input patterns, while  i  is the number of distinct information inputs. With this organization, each FCM can cover every mathematical possibility in a specific-to-general manner.   Using neural recording techniques, our team demonstrated that these activity patterns, or FCMs, are used throughout the brain and across animal species during appetitive, social, and emotional experiences. At last, a unifying design principle for brain computation was found!   A crucial question remained—are these FCMs preconfigured, formed by learning in adulthood, or both? Incredibly, we found that genetic deletion of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor—the synaptic switch for learning and memory—did not greatly impact the FCMs. These results suggested that these activity patterns are developmentally pre-configured or pre-wired by design.  Taken together, these results demonstrated that neural circuits are comprised of pre-wired, conserved FCMs. Instead of random connections that developed accidentally over millions or billions of years of evolution, these data, combined with prior research efforts, show that the brain’s connectivity patterns are highly non-random. Audio version

In this issue PRS Forum - Grace and Mercy Foundation visits TBS. Spring Semester - Begins January 27, 2025 Shiloh, Israel Update - Dr. Scott Stripling travels to Israel Book Releases - TBS alum and student publish new books Movie Premiere - Patterns Of Evidence: The Israel Dilemma , Nov. 13,14, &17 Support TBS  - Financial update and Giving Tuesday The Public Reading of Scripture Forum On Monday, October 7, we hosted an inspiring PRS Forum, where 12 churches were represented as we delved into the Public Reading of Scripture (PRS). This practice has greatly enriched our faith community at TBS over the past year. In partnership with representatives from the Grace and Mercy Foundation , who visited from New York, this free event introduced participants to the essential elements of PRS and illustrated how it can enhance the vibrancy of their ministries. We were eager to share our experiences and insights, welcoming engaging questions from attendees. The evening prior, on Sunday, October 6, we enjoyed a delightful meal with TBS staff, Grace and Mercy Foundation representatives, and local church pastors and leaders, fostering meaningful connections and collaboration in our shared mission. TBS Spring Semester Registration for the Spring semester is now open! With options for audit, seminars, certificate, and graduate courses, there’s something for everyone looking to deepen their faith and expand their knowledge—secure your spot today! Spring Semester begins Monday, January 21, 2025 . Visit TheBibleSeminary.edu and click Get Started . Israel Update with Dr. Scott Stripling Since May I planned to return to Israel to speak at The Highlands Conference this fall. This is a major archaeology conference, so it gives me a chance to share my Shiloh research with many of my Israeli colleagues. Due to the war, the airlines cancelled my flights to Israel, so I had to fly to Amman, Jordan and then cross into Israel. In addition to speaking at the conference, I worked a few days at Shiloh  to prepare an important area, Area D1, for excavation in May/June 2025. With the help of a few friends, I moved a massive rock pile so that we can excavate underneath it – not exactly the glamorous side of archaeology. Jordan McClinton , TBS  graduate and current Teaching Assistant, is the Area supervisor for Area D1, and he is writing his PhD dissertation on the favissa (sacred deposit) in that area. TBS  student Dan Lawless serves as Jordan’s Assistant Square Supervisor. I also conducted some strategic planning with officials from the antiquities authority and ran dig-related errands. Thanks to your partnership, TBS  is on the cutting edge of illuminating the Bible through original archaeological research. Provost & VP of Donor Relations President, Near East Archaeological Society ScottStripling.net Book Releases The Trinity in Eden Jacob R. Figueroa Published by Nehemiah Press Historic Christianity insists that New Testament authors indubitably describe God as three distinct but unified personae: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Although absent from the Bible, the creedal term “Trinity” has become an essential doctrine, while also causing centuries of confusion and controversy among biblical scholars. But, what about the Old Testament?   The Trinity in Eden  presents linguistic research on the oldest account in the Bible: the Primeval History from creation to the tower of Babel. The author concludes that the names of God, the plural pronouns of God, and the execration of the serpent together affirm that the concept of the Trinity is, at least, as old as the Bible itself. Author  Jacob R. Figueroa based the book on his Capstone project for graduation from The Bible Seminary (TBS) with a Master of Arts in Biblical languages and Cultures (2023). He has linguistic expertise in Arabic, German, Greek, Hebrew, Russian, and German, and has unofficially dabbled in Hungarian, Nahua, Spanish, and Latin. As TBS Graduate Dean, Dr. Israel Steinmetz, writes in the  book Foreword, "By bringing his considerable knowledge of languages and linguistics to bear—to say nothing of his piercing analysis and refreshing wit—Figueroa advances the discussion beyond its well-worn paths into new and exciting territory. Such interdisciplinary study has become vital to our understanding of Scripture and theology and continues to move age-old conversations forward in constructive ways...Figueroa forces me to read the Scriptures afresh. He makes me reconsider my considered opinions and re-imagine what God may have been communicating in his inspiration of the opening chapters of Genesis." TBS President and Executive Director of Nehemiah Press , Dr. K. Lynn Lewis , served as Managing Editor.   The Trinity in Eden  is available in paperback and Kindle versions on  Amazon.com .  Bible Fiber: The Twelve Minor Prophets Exploring the Textures and Shades of the Prophetic Tapestry Shelley Neese Bible Fiber explores the Twelve Minor Prophets: Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Often misunderstood biblical heroes, the Minor Prophets served as God’s unfiltered mouthpieces, living on earth but keeping their ear attuned to heaven. This book will help believers comprehend the vibrant messages woven throughout their writings. Over four chaotic centuries (8th–5th century BCE), God turned up the volume on his prophetic amplifier. As war drums from Assyria and Babylon resounded, the prophets frantically preached repentance. The rallying cry, “Return to me and I will return to you,” epitomized their plea for restoration with God—a timeless message that echoes even today. Bible Fiber teaches the culture, religion, and politics of the ancient Near East. The prophets confronted social injustice, immorality, idolatry, violence, and empty religiosity. While critiquing their contemporary world, these men of faith delivered a hope-filled dispatch for the world to come. Their oracles granted a sneak peek behind God’s veiled plan of redemption, ultimately fulfilled in the saving work of Jesus. In the prophetic books, believers have inherited the products of divine revelation. The thread tying the prophecies together is an assurance that, if you seek God, you will find God. I pray that by taking on this Bible reading challenge, diving deep into the prophetic word, you will adopt the anthem of Amos: “Seek me and live!” And you will take on Micah’s call to action: “Do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God.” Studying the textures and shades of the prophetic tapestry, you will appreciate even more God’s ultimate revelation in the incarnation. In Jesus, we have all been offered the red carpet leading us to full reconciliation with our creator. Shelley Neese is president of The Jerusalem Connection, a non-profit organization whose mission is to educate and activate Christian support for Israel and the Jewish people. Shelley is the author of The Copper Scroll Project and host of the Bible Fiber podcast. She studied in Israel for three years, where she received her Master of Arts in Middle Eastern Studies from Ben Gurion University. Shelley is now pursuing a Master of Arts degree in Biblical History and Archaeology at The Bible Seminary . Watch TBS First Friday episode with Shelley and Dr. Stripling. Movie Premiere featuring Dr. Stripling Patterns Of Evidence: The Israel Dilemma – Ancient Prophecies   The conflict in Israel today is often linked to the belief that the Bible serves as the Israelis’ claim to the land, based on God’s covenant with Abraham, Moses, and the Israelites. Filmmaker Timothy Mahoney investigates this by exploring ancient prophecies made by Moses, which predicted Israel’s rise as a kingdom, its fall due to breaking the covenant, the scattering of its people, their persecution, an7d eventual return to the land. Using archaeological evidence and expert insights, Mahoney delves into these events, raising deeper questions about Israel’s suffering, their chosen status, and its relevance today. “ The Israel Dilemma – Ancient Prophecies ” is part one of a two-part film series exploring these themes. IN THEATERS NOVEMBER 13, 14, & 17 ONLY. Get your tickets today at PatternsofEvidence.com Mark your calendars on December 3, 2024 , for Giving Tuesday, when we’ll share the heart of TBS through powerful stories from students, staff, faculty, and alumni. Our goal is to raise at least $360,000 between now and December 31 so TBS can continue to foster biblical literacy in all 66 books of the Bible, cultivate professional and lay leaders, and deploy trained disciples in service worldwide. Together, with your support, we aim to glorify God by impacting multitudes of souls for Christ and fulfill the Great Commission by the power of God’s Spirit by training at least 5,000 leaders that each reach 200 people for Christ during their lifetime and together impact 1,000,000 souls. Donate by Mail The Bible Seminary, 23501 CINCO RANCH BLVD, STE H120-930, KATY TX 77494-3109 Join us in praying and fasting monthly on 2nd Tuesdays for TBS financial provision! Category Aug 2024 Sep 2024 Oct 2024 Monthly Income $100,430 $58,916 $54,112 Monthly Expense $119,280 $94,956 $85,380 Monthly Balance -$18,850 -$36,040 -$31,268 Cumulative Balance* $-324,022 -$360,062 -$391,330 * Cumulative Balance since post-Covid-19 shortfall incurred during 2021-22 fiscal year. Meeting the Giving Tuesday goal would fully replenish all accounts and provide a strong financial position for achieving TRACS 10-year Reaffirmation of Accreditation scheduled for a vote by the accrediting commission in April 2025.. Update your contact information with TBS NOW is the perfect time to update your contact information. Doing so allows us to keep you informed about important updates, events, and opportunities that matter to you. Confirm how we can best reach you and share information you desire. Thank you! The Bible Seminary (TBS) is an independent, non- denominational, 501(c)(3) charitable institution of higher education incorporated in Texas in 2010 to offer training for laity and vocational ministry professionals. TBS is an Accredited member of the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) and the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA), a member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), a participant in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA) for Distance Education, and an approved CEU provider for the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). Goals include helping nurture a biblically literate populace via comprehensive, strategic, Bible-based training through classes and seminars, museum exhibits, productions and publications, and archaeological digs and study tours. “They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people could understand what was being read.” - Nehemiah 8:8 Campus 2655 S MASON RDKATY TX 77450-1772 Mailing 23501 CINCO RANCH BLVD STE H120-930KATY TX 77494-3109 E-mail: info@TheBibleSeminary.edu Phone: 281-646-1109 Office Hours : Mon-Fri, 9 AM - 4 PM

Written by: Shelli Alaniz ( MA in Biblical Studies 2023 ), serves Associate Director of Women’s Ministry for Ananias House , and is the Founder/Trainer of SURGE  Team Building. In 2019, 40 women from four countries throughout the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) gathered around a room, brought together to build the body of Christ in the 10/40 window. Even within the room, you could feel the division among these women, an echo of borders wrought with conflict, war, and suffering. It would take five years to dissolve those barriers between them and build a community grounded in biblical culture. By 2024, those same women were embracing one another like sisters, so grateful for the opportunity to gather together again and strengthen the thread that binds Christ’s body as one. To witness what God has done over these five years has been profound.   Even though Christianity has its roots deeply embedded in the 10/40 window, today it represents some of the most unreached and unevangelized people in the world. In an area filled with endemic persecution, the Church has not only maintained a presence but has seen incredible growth through that persecution. As the Church has grown, so has the need for resources to equip the body of Christ. In response to that need, Ananias House (a Houston, Texas-based non-profit ministry led by a native Syrian man) launched a development program in 2019 that focused on investing in 40 selected women from across the MENA region over five years to train them in discipleship, leadership, and trauma healing. Discipleship training focused on teaching women how to study God's Word to cultivate a relationship with Him and grow spiritually, to learn biblical culture, and to practice abiding in Christ. Leadership training focused on understanding themselves and their identity in Christ better, how a healthy leader impacts the ministries they lead, and how to lead with humility. Trauma healing training concentrated on healing heart wounds and understanding the grief process. In addition to helping these women grow spiritually, the program aimed to help them lead other women in their churches and communities effectively.   Ananias House created a training team from the states and each American woman committed five years to this initiative to invest in these women's lives. Since developing relationships and building trust takes time, the MENA women initially had difficulty opening up, especially with persons from other countries. The team focused on cultivating an environment of love and acceptance, and over time, guarded hearts eventually softened. A new community developed grounded in the tenets of Biblical community and honoring one another as image-bearers of Christ. Though antithetical to their cultures, the demonstrations of affirmation and honor helped cultivate spaces of unprecedented transparency.   As the relational connections deepened, the ground became fertile to address the heart wounds that the women had all clearly experienced. The level of trauma among the women ranged from economic decline and hardship to surviving war and losing loved ones. Suffering and persecution were commonplace, and for many, anesthetized them to the severity of their circumstances. The training team invested a few years into addressing heart wounds within the context of small groups, helping the MENA women to talk, process, and ultimately walk through their grief journeys. As the training team became aware of the depths of some of their trauma and the need for additional counseling, they worked one-on-one with each one to facilitate Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) sessions focused on deep trauma healing and addressing PTSD and complex PTSD symptoms. The results were robust as women experienced healing from wounds decades in the making.   In addition, the team helped the women see their cultures in the mirror of biblical culture. To transform the cultural mindset, we presented alternative perspectives to honor-shame tenets that might impede spiritual growth. Understanding ways Islamic culture infiltrated the Church and contributed to syncretism – combatting the honor-shame paradigms with the truth of God's Word – was both a daunting and a liberating experience for the women. It was daunting because stepping away from cultural paradigms opened them up to experiencing shame from their communities, and the women had to be prepared for this reality. The answer to this dilemma was community.   Community is a significant aspect of Arab culture and represents the foundation from which thoughts, beliefs, and choices flow. As women face counter-cultural options for living their lives, ostracization from their communities of origin can occur. The training focused on teaching the women to cultivate a Biblical community where relationships could be rooted in God’s design for community – one of love, support, honoring one another, accepting each other, and serving one another selflessly. The biblical community was modeled for the women over the five years. Multiple small groups focused on reinforcing these community concepts by understanding themselves better (using DISC assessments and reflecting on spiritual gifts), honoring the women around them (by doing affirmation exercises and pointing out their strengths and gifts), and healing from heart wounds (and building trust). This was built around a solid framework of studying God’s Word together and consistently letting Scripture shape and direct the dynamics of the training and the relationships that were being formed. This community model proved a vital piece of the puzzle because living in a communal culture meant that, for these women to live counter-culturally, they would need a new community around them living in that space as well.   In April 2024, Ananias House graduated these 40 women from the Ananias House Women's Leadership Program. No longer could we see the boundary lines represented by their countries, but instead, we witnessed women who learned what it meant to come together as the body of Christ, to live within the Bible culture rather than in the shadows of the Islamic culture, and to love and honor one another as they built a new community focused on glorifying God. They taught us what it meant to walk in faith when comfort was elusive, and suffering was a standard part of their lives. They taught us what pouring your life out for God and for the Kingdom looks like. They taught us what it means to live moment by moment in a felt need for God.  One woman shared, “For the first time, I love that I am a woman. I know now that I am a daughter of the King and that my life has value and worth. I know now what it means to love and honor another woman. And that God will use us to build His Kingdom.”  What a gift to witness God working over these five years and to come alongside the beautiful and profound work that He is doing in the 10/40 window. As we prepare for the launch of our next five-year program with a new group of women, our anticipation continues to grow as we look forward in wonder of what God will do next.   Audio Version

Written by: Richard James , TBS Master of Arts in Christian History and Theology (2024) A week-long adventure with  TBS President Lewis  during a March 2012 ski trip with our church was my first real introduction to The Bible Seminary (TBS). His passionate description of the newly launched graduate program rooted in studying all 66 books of the Bible and training believers for life and ministry leadership seemed intriguing, even exciting, and I began observing TBS from the fringe.     Fast forward eight years and I dove into the center of TBS education. I had a high heart knowledge of Christianity but increasingly felt a stirring desire to bring my head knowledge up to the same level. I am task-oriented and know that I work better when I am held accountable. So I enrolled as a degree student, and the course agendas and requirements culminating into grades is exactly what I needed to stay on task. Life happens and is far too easy to get distracted and procrastinate. For me, TBS has been perfect and I am very thankful for the program.    My full-time work requires travel, and the flexibility TBS offers has allowed me to satisfy the requirements to graduate with a Master of Arts in Church History and Theology. During my journey, I have enjoyed the opportunity to focus on every book of the Bible, including times of intense focus on specific topics while writing research papers and preparing projects. Though difficult at time, the tasks have proven exceptional for me. I have learned more from these papers and project than from the readings alone.  I also had the opportunity to participate in the archaeological dig at Tel Shiloh , Israel led by TBS Provost Stripling . I will forever cherish my Holy Land experience and cannot adequately express my gratitude for the TBS professors and staff. Their subject knowledge and level of personal support is incredible, and I count myself fortunate to know TBS leaders and students as friends.   My capstone project for graduation has included creating a non-profit organization that seeks to help individuals in need. Called Hesed Hands, Inc ( HesedHands.com ), the name comes from the Hebrew word “khesed.” Though difficult to translate into English, “hesed” seems to express a sense of love that inspires caring behavior towards our fellow human beings. Jesus summarizes the Greatest Commandment in Matthew 22:35-40 , “ One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: ‘Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?’ Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.’”  Hesed Hands aims to act on the second commandment of “Love your Neighbor” through acts of kindness and dialogue about “Loving the Lord your God.” By purchasing groceries, providing a needed appliance, or repairing a home (and anything in-between), we can both practically love our neighbors and hopefully bring them to know the Lord. As our acts of kindness open avenues for dialogue, we pray the Holy Spirit works through us and others and in our neighbors to complete the process.  Audio Version

Tears of Sorrow, Tears of Joy   by Stan Goss (2024)    Rising from a childhood laced with devastation and heartbreak, Stan Goss found immense inward healing and earthly successes with the Lord as his companion. Tears of Sorrow, Tears of Joy shares his journey of conquering hardships while also fully grasping the nature of both pain and joy, and shares his vibrant passion and strategies to inspire spiritual elders to fully live out their crown of glory years.   Stan is a Master Executive Coach , community leader, family man, and passionate servant of the Lord devoted to inspiring Christian spiritual eldership. He serves on the Board of Trustees for The Bible Seminary (TBS) and is one of the first Bible Certificate graduates and oldest living alumni.  “I remember myself as a youngster riding in the passenger seat of our pick-up truck with my father at the steering wheel. We were following my uncle Grady, who was driving a flat-bed truck with a tractor chained to the flatbed. Right in front of our eyes, he drove off the road into a ditch and the tractor broke loose and pinned him in the cab. The scene was horrific. My dad left me alone with Uncle Grady to search desperately for help. Pools of blood remain ingrained in my memory. These, and that Uncle Grady died. I think he was thirty-something. That’s all I remember.  Sometime thereafter, I was out fishing with my grandpa, Oscar Lankford. My memories of him, along with the pictures I have seen, depict him as a tall, quiet man. He was sort of the “Gregory Peck” type. Yet on this day, my memories become fuzzy. My grandpa had a heart attack and died. The story is that I dragged his body into the pickup truck and drove to the nearest farm for help…  The nightmare continued when my dad, Claude Benton Goss, died a few weeks later. We were alone on the tractor night plowing. I think he had a heart attack. I do remember my mom yelling at him to wake up. He didn’t. I remember an ambulance driving away with his body, and that was it.”   “Many events conspired to bring me into the next dark day of my life. I was working one morning when the phone rang for me. My mom greeted me urgently, informing me that both she and Nancy had the flu.   “Could you call in sick for us?” she asked.   I agreed and phoned my mother’s work and Nancy’s school. I then raced to the house, checked in on them, and fixed them a bite to eat. They were sick, but seemed stable, so I returned to work.   A few hours passed. Later that afternoon, I called the house and received no answer. I assumed my mom and Nancy were feeling better and read this as a positive omen, imagining perhaps they stepped out to shop…Later, when we arrived home, the phone was blaring. I answered it only to hear a neighbor’s frantic voice urging me to rush to the house. I arrived within minutes to a sea of flashing red lights and several emergency vehicles. When I stepped inside, I saw my mother’s limp body on the floor and a gurney was wheeling Nancy outside and into an ambulance. It was all a blur after that.    I know that someone directed me inside the ambulance with Nancy, and that I spent the night alone at the hospital as people worked feverishly to save her life.   But Nancy didn’t make it. She was only fifteen years old. Authorities determined that the house was flooded with carbon monoxide gas. Evidently, my mother pulled a panel off the furnace that kept the gas from recycling into the house. Without this panel in place, the house became a lethal gas chamber. We never knew how or why this happened.”  “A few years ago, a lovely lady, Mary Bell, posed an interesting question to me, “How did you get this way?”  What a blessing of a question! How did I go from a talented young boy, deeply and profusely wounded by the deaths of my closest family members and leaving a massive heap of anguish and rubble behind, to arrive as such a man in such a prosperous place?  Yet, I knew the answer, and quickly: Only by God’s grace. No other answer could attempt to make any sense at all. I couldn’t begin to claim credit for the outcome of my journey. God has just brought me along for the ride. But the astonishing tales of His grace never end, and in my case, there is more to this story.”  Audio Version

Written by:Jennifer Bartlett , TBS Dual Degree Completion and Master of Arts in Biblical Languages and Cultures student. Jennifer Bartlett lives in Palm Coast, Florida and is a Dual Degree Completion student in the Master of Arts in Biblical Languages and Culture degree program. Fascinated with the Septuagint and with communicating “boring” parts of the Bible in dynamic and innovative ways, she and her husband, Brett, are homeschooling the last three of six children. She founded Alpha Women’s Center in Palm Coast in 1999 and now works independently as a content creator, manager, and editor for various Christian businesses and individuals, including the Christian tour agency Living Passages (2019-23), the late Dr. Michael Heiser (2020-21), and TBS’s own Shelley Neese (2023-24). Contact Jenni at jenni@gracetruthandlove.org . Bartlett family ( L-R, Front ) Heather, Jenni, Alyssa, and Daniel; ( Back ) Brett and Alan. Not shown Jeremy and Jeff. Our children, who were seemingly babies so recently, are growing up. In fact, some already have. Brett and I have six children, and a couple are now parents themselves. I’m homeschooling the last few and always hopeful for their nebulous future ministries and vocations. Among their prospects, nothing ignites them like the arts! We just finished our busiest time of the year: culminating months of practices preparing for a year-end county strings concert and a first place-medal-winning regional fine arts competition in Orlando (a couple of hours away). Our church hosted a repeat performance for friends and family that was even better than the competition performance because they were bringing it for an audience of One, and it was worshipful! I share this because we have a Great Commission to fulfill that can be accomplished through myriad forms of communication. Youth don’t need to wait until they’ve graduated from college to start being used by God, and perhaps they shouldn’t have to stop being artists to “make it” in the world. I wonder, what if they could do what they love to do and get paid to do it? What if they could honor the Lord with their talents and He sustained them through their artistry? What if a team of talented people helped open wallets to fund such nonprofit Christian organizations that are fulfilling the call? What if their artistry included actively taking the Gospel into the nations? What if the message isn’t just GIVE, but GO? Or better yet, “COME UNTO ME”? What would that look like? I am so thankful for The Bible Seminary and the resources God has opened to me through my degree program. Through the “ PAS 511: Pastor-Leader I “ course and using guidelines from the book Boss Like God  (2018) by TBS President Dr. K. Lynn Lewis and Beau McBeth, I jumped on the opportunity to crystallize my ideas into a plan! Allow me to paint the picture, beginning, as the BLG authors do, with an introduction to the idea that God is the ideal boss. Throughout the Bible, God demonstrates various methods of relating to His “employees” and similar practices and principles can be implemented in the workplace. The book’s four sections address aspects of serving as boss in a business or ministry context: hiring, managing, firing, and leaving well. In keeping with one of the first steps in hiring well, allow me to cast vision by addressing the problem (opportunity), the solution, and the roles needed to fulfill the mission. Problem: A lost and needy world needs the Gospel, discipleship, and a demonstration of the love of God through the good works and generosity of those who follow Jesus Christ. Many ministries engage in meeting these needs. They usually rely on financial donations, often solicited through audience-engaged events, and their audiences need information and encouragement to support ministry endeavors. Solution: Offer media resources that can help deliver both kinds of messages. Options are virtually limitless: from 2-D drawings and paintings that can be auctioned and/or used to promote a cause; to original songs and videos; to dramatic and evocative, staged drama and human video presentations. Roles: Job descriptions define roles by addressing purpose(s), resources and opportunities available, and specific freedoms and boundaries.2 According to BLG, job descriptions should be clear (straightforward and unambiguous), complete (the whole job and associated tasks), compatible (matched to the strengths of the individual), complementary (“we work together” = teamwork), and consensual (everyone understands and agrees upon their roles).3 Roles in our organization might include the following: ·  A board of directors  who design, define, and refine the solution and the roles needed to accomplish the mission (for example, and subject to revision): To provide a fundraising resources to Christian organizations using an array of fine arts as compelling media designed to glorify Jesus Christ and elicit a generous donor response. The Board establishes organizational goals as reflected in the mission statement and sets bylaws that define how the organization operates. All of this is in preparation for the execution of the plan. ·       Executive Director(s)  – chief talent scout/agent and client liaison – who will engage with other employees, volunteers, and clients to pursue the mission and goals. The Board equips the Executive Director with a clear job description, resources, and ongoing feedback and adjusts as necessary to achieve the desired results.4 ·       Performers and support team members such as coaches, instructors, set designers, and tech operators who help write, choreograph, setup, and perform or present at fundraising events; as well as business, communications, and marketing personnel who help produce and manage productions. Because our chief aim is to glorify Jesus Christ, we will acknowledge our dependence on God for favorable outcomes – for safety, peaceful interpersonal relations, successful performances, and effective messages – by making prayer a priority. We will create a Statement of Faith consistent with conservative Christian doctrine, standards, and behavior. Hiring parameters will include seeking persons committed to living these out as organizational representatives and, primarily, as ambassadors who represent Jesus Christ in all things, at all times, and in all places. In closing, I love TBS ! I love the FLEXIBILITY that has allowed me to earn a degree online while working around my children’s busy schedule. I love the CONTENT as we learned subjects while also studying scripture in-depth. For example, in our Pastor-Leader class we studied leadership exploring prophets, priests, and kings throughout 1 and 2 Samuel and 1 and 2 Kings. I love the RESULTS as I’ve grown in my understanding of God’s Word; watched changes manifest in my environment; and am looking forward to launching a ministry that can provide meaningful vocations for Christian artists, innovative methods of raising funds, and dynamic ways of sharing the life-changing messages of hope in Jesus Christ. Originally published in The Sentinel , Summer 2024 , p. 12 Audio version

In this issue Jesus and the Jihadis Seminar - Register! Fall courses at TBS  - Just Show Up Book Club - Just show up! TBS Commencement - Milestone reached! Support The Bible Seminary Jesus and the Jihadis Seminar PREVIEW Available Live AND Online | $89 per person | Register Saturday, September 21 | 9:00 AM - Noon | TBS Classroom 270 Join us for the " Jesus and the Jihadis " Seminar with Dr. Craig Evans and Dr. Jeremiah Johnston on Saturday, September 21, at The Bible Seminary. We'll explore the theology driving the ideology of ISIS and other extremist groups, based on the book, "Jesus and the Jihadis: Confronting the Rage of ISIS." This seminar will cover five key topics: Muhammad and the origins of Islam , the Qur’an and its relationship to the Bible , t he portrait of Jesus in the Qur’an , and Islam's violent history . Don't miss this AMAZING opportunity to engage with leading scholars and gain valuable insights.  Fall Courses at TBS Last chance to enroll and dive deeper into your faith journey during fall semester! Explore archaeology, biblical languages, hermeneutics, leadership, spiritual formation, or theology. Enroll as a for-credit student, or audit a course to engage with the material at your own pace and level of commitment. Join our vibrant learning community and embark on a transformative educational experience that will equip you for a lifetime of service and leadership in your faith. Enroll today and unlock new possibilities! Just Show Up (JSU) Book Club Our new Just Show Up Book Club meets on Mondays at 10:30 AM in Classroom 270 . In JSU, we explore and discuss books together—no homework required, just come, listen, and share your thoughts. Afterwards, stay for a free lunch and The Public Reading of Scripture from Noon-1 PM. Participate in-person or online . We look forward to seeing you! TBS Commencement On Sunday, August 11, 2024, The Bible Seminary celebrated a significant milestone, awarding over 100 degrees and welcoming four new graduates, which brings our total number of alumni to 94. Dr. Craig Evans delivered a heartfelt and inspiring speech that truly resonated with the graduates. We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this day unforgettable for our graduates and their families. Photos by: MD Photography and Eanthe Estelle Photography Support The Bible Seminary Your donations help foster biblical literacy in all 66 books of the Bible, cultivate professional and lay leaders, and deploy trained disciples in service worldwide. Together, we aim to glorify God by impacting multitudes of souls for Christ and fulfill the Great Commission by the power of God’s Spirit by training at least 5,000 leaders that each reach 200 people for Christ during their lifetime and together impact 1,000,000 souls. Donate by Mail The Bible Seminary, 23501 CINCO RANCH BLVD, STE H120-930, KATY TX 77494-3109 We are currently praying and fasting monthly on 2nd Tuesdays for TBS financial provision! Category Jun 2024 Jul 2024 Aug 2024 Monthly Income $15,115 $65,851 $100,430 Monthly Expense $75,855 $76,637 $119,280 Monthly Balance -$60,740 -$10,786 -$18,850 Cumulative Balance* -$294,386 -$305,172 -$324,022 *Cumulative Balance since post-Covid-19 shortfall incurred during 2021-22 fiscal year and the amount needed to fully replenish all accounts. The Bible Seminary (TBS) is an independent, non- denominational, 501(c)(3) charitable institution of higher education incorporated in Texas in 2010 to offer training for laity and vocational ministry professionals. TBS is an Accredited member of the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) and the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA), a member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), a participant in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA) for Distance Education, and an approved CEU provider for the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). Goals include helping nurture a biblically literate populace via comprehensive, strategic, Bible-based training through classes and seminars, museum exhibits, productions and publications, and archaeological digs and study tours. “They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people could understand what was being read.” - Nehemiah 8:8 Campus 2655 S MASON RDKATY TX 77450-1772 Mailing 23501 CINCO RANCH BLVD STE H120-930KATY TX 77494-3109 E-mail: info@TheBibleSeminary.edu Phone: 281-646-1109 Office Hours : Mon-Fri, 9 AM - 4 PM

In this issue Jesus and the Jihadis Seminar   Mondays at TBS - JSU and PRS TBS Student Government - First meeting of 2024-25 academic year First Friday Podcast and weekly Wednesday blog posts Support TBS - Giving Tuesday coming soon! Update your contact information Jesus and the Jihadis Seminar In a packed seminar at The Bible Seminary, Dr. Jeremiah Johnston and Dr. Craig Evans led an engaging discussion on the theological underpinnings of extremist ideologies, specifically focusing on ISIS, as outlined in their book, " Jesus and the Jihadis: Confronting the Rage of ISIS ." Mondays at TBS Mondays at TBS offer a welcoming space for community and conversation, starting with the Just Show Up Book Club (JSU) at 10:30 AM —where no homework is required, and everyone is encouraged to come, listen, and share their thoughts. Following JSU, participants can enjoy a free lunch while engaging in The Public Reading of Scripture (PRS) from Noon - 1 PM . Offered both in-person and online (via Zoom), these gatherings foster meaningful connections and inspire deeper reflections. Join us in sharing in these enriching experiences! TBS Student Government The Fall SGA meeting of 2024 was a great success! After a heartfelt time of worship and prayer, students to explored upcoming opportunities to serve our local community. We were excited to unanimously elect Janet Fischer as the new virtual liaison for the SGA this school year. The event wrapped up with an open prayer session, fostering a strong sense of support and connection among everyone. First Friday Podcast & weekly Wednesday blog posts Join hosts Dr. K. Lynn Lewis and Dr. Scott Stripling as they welcome special guest and TBS Alum Samantha Rude, the Prayer Pastor at The Great Southwest Prayer Center at Grace Fellowship in Katy, Texas. Together, they dive deep into The Theology of Prayer, exploring its significance, purpose, and impact on our lives. Whether you're seeking a stronger connection in your spiritual journey or curious about the power of prayer, this episode is packed with insights, personal stories, and profound teachings. NEW Blog each Wednesday Every Wednesday, TBS shares a blog post crafted by talented students, staff, or faculty. These insightful pieces cover a range of topics, showcasing the vibrant community at TBS. Visit TheBibleSeminary.edu/news or check out these recent blog posts: Danger Never Sleeps , Lewis, 10/2/24 Biblical Minimalists vs Maximalists , Hoefling, 9/25/24 Archaeology and Retired Law Enforcement , Fischer, 9/18/24 Mark your calendars on December 3, 2024 , for Giving Tuesday, when we’ll share the heart of TBS through powerful stories from students, staff, faculty, and alumni. Our goal is to raise at least $360,000 between now and December 31 so TBS can continue to foster biblical literacy in all 66 books of the Bible, cultivate professional and lay leaders, and deploy trained disciples in service worldwide. Together, with your support, we aim to glorify God by impacting multitudes of souls for Christ and fulfill the Great Commission by the power of God’s Spirit by training at least 5,000 leaders that each reach 200 people for Christ during their lifetime and together impact 1,000,000 souls. Donate by Mail The Bible Seminary, 23501 CINCO RANCH BLVD, STE H120-930, KATY TX 77494-3109 Join us in praying and fasting monthly on 2nd Tuesdays for TBS financial provision! Category Jul 2024 Aug 2024 Sep 2024 Monthly Income $65,851 $100,430 $54,916 Monthly Expense $76,637 $119,280 $94,956 Monthly Balance -$10,786 -$18,850 -$36,0404 Cumulative Balance* -$305,172 -$324,022 -$360,062 * Cumulative Balance since post-Covid-19 shortfall incurred during 2021-22 fiscal year. Meeting the Giving Tuesday goal would fully replenish all accounts and provide a strong financial position for achieving TRACS 10-year Reaffirmation of Accreditation scheduled for a vote by the accrediting commission in April 2025.. Update your contact information with TBS NOW is the perfect time to update your contact information. Doing so allows us to keep you informed about important updates, events, and opportunities that matter to you. Confirm how we can best reach you and share information you desire. Thank you! The Bible Seminary (TBS) is an independent, non- denominational, 501(c)(3) charitable institution of higher education incorporated in Texas in 2010 to offer training for laity and vocational ministry professionals. TBS is an Accredited member of the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) and the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA), a member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), a participant in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA) for Distance Education, and an approved CEU provider for the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). Goals include helping nurture a biblically literate populace via comprehensive, strategic, Bible-based training through classes and seminars, museum exhibits, productions and publications, and archaeological digs and study tours. “They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people could understand what was being read.” - Nehemiah 8:8 Campus 2655 S MASON RDKATY TX 77450-1772 Mailing 23501 CINCO RANCH BLVD STE H120-930KATY TX 77494-3109 E-mail: info@TheBibleSeminary.edu Phone: 281-646-1109 Office Hours : Mon-Fri, 9 AM - 4 PM

Brent Hoefling, TBS Master of Arts in Biblical History and Archaeology (2024) While researching and writing for my TBS coursework, I noticed some authors avoid using the Bible as a primary source of information. Whether due to concerns about academic reputation or other reasons, there seem to be far more minimalist scholars than maximalist scholars. Secular archaeologists and minimalist scholars may find the Bible suitable for literature or other purposes, but generally avoid using it in historical context. Meanwhile, many others hold that the Bible contains historical information. Hershel Shanks, former editor of Biblical Archaeology Review , questioned the use of the Bible in 1976 based on the idea that theological orientation could bias scholarly work. It is true that pursuing archaeology to “prove the Bible ” is not an objective approach to scholarly work. I don’t believe the Bible needs to be “proven,” nor am I afraid of scientific endeavors that at some levels may appear to contradict the Bible . Furthermore, I believe that archaeological academics should use biblical citations and allusions as primary research sources. Historically, the “Copenhagen school” of minimalists seek to eliminate ANY historicity of the Bible based on their opinion that the document is unreliable. Meanwhile, biblical maximalists consider the Bible a unique, historical collection of writings documenting the life and times of ancient Israelites and early Christians, and therefore capable of use as a primary source of information. Thus, minimalists and maximalists continue to emotionally debate the validity and reliability of the Bible as a primary source. While minimalist scholars have dominated the last half-century, maximalists are regaining ground, I believe partly due to the high quality work of archaeologists, authors, researchers, and scholars in places like TBS . Archaeological academic scholarship should accept biblical citations, just as they utilize citations from other historical manuscripts. Citing the Bible is not exclusively a matter of faith or ideology, but evidence of scholarly rigor and respect for diverse sources. Biblical texts are among the most ancient, documented, and researched literary artifacts in existence. Thus, despite contradictory perspectives, scripture can and should be considered a valuable source for attempted reconstruction of ancient historical chronology. Since bias goes both ways, a more nuanced approach to biblical interpretation is to allow erudite scholarship to uncover the latest information about the ancient world and the people who inhabited it, while also allowing data gleaned from archaeological endeavors to illuminate the Word of God . Originally published in The Sentinel , Summer 2024 , p. 8 Audio Version