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In this issue Feb 2024 - Upcoming Seminar, "Lost Books of the Bible" with Dr. Craig Evans Jan 2024 - Book Launch Party for Tears of Sorrow, Tears of Joy Dec 2023 - Katy Christian Chamber Breakfast Nov 2023 - Evangelical Theological Society Meeting Weekly - Public Reading of Scripture (PRS) Ongoing - Support TBS Upcoming Seminar, "Lost Books of the Bible" Are there lost books of the Bible? What Jewish writings are preserved from the time between the Old and New Testament? What insights can the Dead Sea Scrolls and extra-biblical first century texts give us about Jesus? Scripture is the authority for Christians. But what about these other books? Can we learn from them? Join us to find out! Our presenter is Dr. Craig Evans, one of the world's leading experts on the Dead Sea Scrolls, intertestamental literature, and first century Judaism. Book Launch for Tears of Sorrow, Tears of Joy Over 140 attendees enjoyed a book launch party with TBS alum and Board member Stan Goss at Texas Traditions Bank on Thursday, January 11, 2024. Rising from a childhood laced with devastation and heartbreak, Stan's book reveals how he 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. The book was published by TBS's publishing division, Nehemiah Press, Katy Christian Chamber Breakfast TBS hosted the area Katy Christian Chamber of Commerce in the Grace Fellowship Vista on Friday, December 15, 2023. Nearly 70 attendees enjoyed breakfast, an archaeological display of Christmas-related artifacts from the 3J Museum, and a presentation from Dr. Stripling along with other KCC business. See photos here. Evangelical Theological Society Annual Meeting Along with nearly 3,000 attendees from around the world, TBS leaders, staff, students, and alumni participated in the 2023 ETS Annual Meeting held in San Antonio, Texas November 14-16, 2023. Dr. Lewis, Dr. Stripling, alums Abigail Leavitt and Gary Urie, and student Clayton Van Huss gave presentations in the Near East Archaeology (NEAS) sessions. TBS Marketing Director Allison Taylor hosted a combined NEAS/TBS booth with archaeological exhibits and books for sale throughout the event. Public Reading of Scripture (PRS) PRS at TBS is held weekly from Noon-1 PM (CST) on Mondays in Classroom 270 and hosted live online. An average of 35 weekly participants enjoy a free meal, dramatic audio of 2 psalms and several Old and New testament passages, and teaching notes and PRS instructions from TBS staff. See photos here and here. Support TBS The Bible Seminary (TBS) benefits tremendously from dependable income that funds ongoing operations essential to executing the seminary’s mission and vision. Donors help TBS: Maintain financial stability that honors the Lord, fulfills contracted promises, and models healthy financial practices. Foster biblical literacy through studies of all 66 books of the Bible, cultivate professional and lay leaders, and deploy trained disciples in service worldwide. Devote robust time and vigor to training 5,000 leaders that each reach 200 people for Christ during their lifetime and together impact 1,000,000 souls. Give Online Safe and secure, our online giving platform is the easiest way to give. Give by Mail Send checks to: The Bible Seminary 23501 CINCO RANCH BLVD STE H120-930 KATY TX 77494-3109 *All donations are charitable and tax-deductible as allowed by law. If you have any legal questions, please see your tax advisor for more information. Download the TBS App! Check out The Bible Seminary's app available on both Apple and Android stores! Enjoy an easy and convenient way to stay connected to The Bible Seminary. Features include instant access to courses, event notifications, and a rich library of video resources. It is the perfect tool for students, alumni, and anyone interested in deepening their understanding of the Bible. Download your TBS App today! Get a glimpse of TBS with TBS Moments. There are short videos we share daily on our YouTube and Social platforms. This a great way to get a view inside of The Bible Seminary. Watch TBS Moments. 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), an approved participant in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-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 RD KATY TX 77450-1772 Mailing 23501 CINCO RANCH BLVD STE H120-930 KATY TX 77494-3109 E-mail: info@TheBibleSeminary.edu Phone: 281-646-1109 Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 9 AM - 4 PM

In this issue Meet TBS alumni and students: Who benefits from charitable giving to TBS? Support TBS: Three ways to invest in the TBS family, mission, and vision this month TBS App: Download yours today! Public Reading of Scripture: Join in-person or online Mondays, Noon - 1:00 PM CST Share your experience: Help spread the word about TBS with your social media review Meet TBS alumni and students Krystyna Cawthorne (at right) is a 2020 graduate of The Bible Seminary where she earned a Master of Arts degree in Church History and Theology. With the encouragement of her husband of 39 years, Peter, and her two children Natalie and Marcus, Krystyna authored a Bible study guide for moms with children on the autism disorder spectrum (ASD) titled The Presence of God in Autism which is published through TBS's Nehemiah Press. [Watch Video] Paul Kabore and his wife, Bougma Sibiri Catherine, are living out the gospel by church planting in their home country of Burkina Faso in Western Africa. In 2013 they purchased a plot of land just east of the capital city of Ouagadougou where they began sharing the Good News and have grown their church to over 100 parishioners and it is still growing. While studying Ancient Greek and Hebrew in Israel, Paul met Dr. Stripling. With his passion to learn more, Pastor Paul enrolled at TBS in 2022 and is pursuing a Master of Arts in Biblical History and Archaeology. In Paul's spare time he teaches Hebrew to Christian schools and faculties. Catherine is also studying to earn her Bachelor of Arts in Theology. Together they spend their time reading, studying, practicing, teaching, and mediating on God's Word. [Watch Video] Manasseh Luka is currently studying to earn a Master of Arts in Biblical History and Archaeology through TBS. As an international student in New Delhi, India, Manasseh works as a social worker in the juvenile prison. He is the youngest of four children and along with a sister is the caretaker to their mother, a retired hospital clerk. Manasseh's father passed on in 2009, but he served the Lord faithfully as a priest in the church and community for 40 years. Manasseh serves The Bible Seminary as the Virtual Liaison for the Student Government Association, where he is extremely active in the student community and diligent in developing relationships within TBS's family. Upon his commencement, Manasseh will become the FIRST biblical archaeologist in India. [Watch Video] Anita Murillo (second from right above) is currently enrolled in the Certificate of Theological Studies program. She is joyfully married to her best friend and amazing husband of 32 years, Jody. Together they have three adult children Jacob John (29), Jordan Abigail (25), and Jonah Benjamin (23). She is the grateful grandmother to her first grandchild Arie Tinsley-Huoang Murillo. Anita is the Founder of Deborah's Arise Ministries, where the focus is to ignite, empower, inspire, equip, and encourage women through community and fellowship to fulfill their God-given purpose. [Watch Video] Shelley Neese is a distance student at The Bible Seminary who is studying to earn a Master of Arts degree in Biblical History and Archaeology. Shelley serves as President of The Jerusalem Connection Report, and her articles can be found in a multitude of publications including but not limited to The Jerusalem Report, Israel Today, FrontPage Magazine, and in TBS's yearly publication, The Sentinel. Along with these resource outlets, Shelley is the author of the #1 new release book, The Copper Scroll Project. She has made interview appearances on the Eric Metaxas Show on TBN, Jerusalem Dateline with Chris Mitchell on CBN, SkyWatch TV, and The Watchman with Erick Stakelbeck, to name a few. Shelley's extensive background in government and education has prepared her to help share the need Israel has to be supported by Christians worldwide which she also accomplishes through public speaking events. As a public figure, Shelley somehow finds the time to be a supportive wife to her beloved husband of 20 years, who serves as a Lieutenant Colonel and family physician for the U.S. Air Force and a hands-on mother to their 4 children. [Watch Video] Gabriel Orr is currently pursuing an Master of Divinity at The Bible Seminary. He serves the City of Houston as a full-time police officer, and Second Baptist Church as a Bible Study teacher and member of the security team. He is married to Corina and they have four adult daughters and a two-year old son, Gabriel Jr. [Watch Video] “If you want to know where your money is being spent, you’re looking at him. The things I’m being equipped with, the tools that I’m given at The Bible Seminary allow me to advance the Kingdom of God on this earth.” Meredith Ridenour and her husband Jon reside in Northwest Houston, Texas with their two sons, Jackson (13) and Lincoln (10). When they are not at a baseball field or watching a baseball game, Meredith serves as the Director of Ministry Operations at Windwood Presbyterian Church. She is currently enrolled at The Bible Seminary where she is diligently working to achieve a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies. Meredith is also the Activities Director in the TBS Student Government Association. [Watch Video] Gary Urie is a 2022 graduate of The Bible Seminary where he earned his Master of Arts in Biblical History and Archaeology. He is currently enrolled in the Ph.D. program studying Biblical History and Archaeology at Veritas International University. Gary is a retired Houston Police Department Detective who lives with his family in Belton, Texas where he teaches at his church in Temple, Texas. He also serves on the Shiloh Excavation dig staff with Associates for Biblical Research (ABR) and his photography is on display in the Joshua, Judges, and Jesus Museum. [Watch Video] Jenny Ward (above at left) resides just outside of Denver, Colorado with her husband Beau (they have recently celebrated their twenty-year wedding anniversary) and their three children. They love spending time together as a family while taking advantage of every season that Colorado offers. Jenny is currently enrolled in the Master of Arts Biblical History and Archaeology program at The Bible Seminary and is an active member in a moms and daughters group in her community. [Watch Video] Teresa Williams felt the prompting of the Holy Spirit in 2022 to pack up her two daughters and move from Maryland to Katy, Texas and become an on-campus student at The Bible Seminary. The past year, the Katy area has given her the opportunity to become employed as a technician in the medical field for a local doctor and to become plugged in to both Grace Fellowship Church and Life Church. Teresa is currently an audit student, looking forward to transitioning into a degree program. [Watch Video] Patrick Wise hails from England, but calls Katy, Texas home with (God's gift to him) his wife Amy of 13 years and their two wonderful children, Ashlynn (11) and Garrick (7). He manages the local favorite seafood, oyster bar, and steakhouse, Pearl & Vine Restaurant and serves at The Waters Church in a multitude of ways. Patrick is seeking to earn his Certificate in Theological Studies from TBS, where he has become involved in the archaeology department as a docent with the Joshua, Judges, & Jesus Museum and serving as Chaplain of the student body. [Watch Video] Ryan Wood is new to Katy, Texas and is currently pursuing his Master of Arts in Biblical History and Archaeology through the Dual Degree Completion program offered through The Bible Seminary. He is originally from the panhandle of Texas where his mother is an RN and his father is an entrepreneurial cattleman. As a new member of the Katy community, Ryan is looking for ministries to plug into and others to fellowship, network, and build a community. [Watch Video] Support TBS Invest in the seminary family, mission, and vision as part of your year-end giving and Jesus' birthday celebrations! Adopt-a-Book: Support the TBS culture of learning and a legacy of training 5,000+ disciples and ministry leaders Great Christmas gift idea for someone you love! Goal: 5000 books Current: 65 books Percent: 1.3% General Donation: Help fuel TBS educational ministries through your investments in facilities, personnel, and programming. You help make TBS happen! Goal: $250,000 Current: $75,000 Percent: 30% Great Commission Scholarship Fund: Help empower the next generation of leaders making a Kingdom impact. $50,000 available in a matching gift to help double your giving! Goal: $100,000 Current: $61,000 Percent: 61% Note: All donations are charitable and tax-deductible as allowed by law. If you have any legal questions, please see your tax advisor for more information. Donate ONLINE (click any link above), by MAIL (see mailing address at end), or by TEXT (see below). Text "Any Amount" to 84321 Follow prompt link. Search for "The Bible Seminary." Create your profile. Add or select a payment method. Submit a donation. After this one-time setup, you can TEXT your donation amount to 84321 to make an online donation. Public Reading of Scripture Download the TBS App! We are thrilled to announce the launch of The Bible Seminary's brand-new app, now available on both Apple and Android stores! Enjoy an easy and convenient way to stay connected to The Bible Seminary. Features include instant access to courses, event notifications, and a rich library of video resources. It is the perfect tool for students, alumni, and anyone interested in deepening their understanding of the Bible. Download your TBS App today! Share your experience! Please take a moment to leave a review on Great Non-Profits and Google to let others know how awesome TBS is! Your feedback is invaluable in helping us improve and serve our community better. Thank you! *Click a logo below to leave your review on that site. 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), an approved participant in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-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 RD KATY TX 77450-1772 Mailing 23501 CINCO RANCH BLVD STE H120-930 KATY TX 77494-3109 E-mail: info@TheBibleSeminary.edu Phone: 281-646-1109 Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 9 AM - 4 PM

By TBS MABHA student Manasseh Luka While residing in India's capital city of New Delhi, I read Jeremiah 1:5 (NRSV), "I knew you before I formed you in the womb, and I consecrated you before you were born; I appointed you a prophet to the nations." My special affection for this verse began during my transition from childhood to adolescence as I began to spend time in prayer and reading the Bible. When my father's life on this earth concluded, I especially witnessed God's incredible love, grace, and serenity for my family. As I bowed in prayer next to my father's deathbed, John 14:1-4 brought great comfort. “Believe in God, and believe in me, too. There are numerous dwellings in my father's home. Would I have informed you that I was going to set up a space for you if that weren't the case? And if I go and make a home for you, I'll come back and take you with me so that you can be with me wherever I am.” In these I felt God’s assurance and affirmation. While seeking His direction and calling in my life, I spent a year reading God’s Word and meditating. During Lenten prayer meetings in 2010, I felt God calling me to attend seminary and began theological studies in 2011. As I explored the Bible more, I understood that Biblical archaeology sheds light on how God has shaped human history, race, creation, and historical events, and confirmed His presence in people's lives. After finishing seminary in 2015, I found several graduate programs in biblical archaeology, but felt none were right for me at the time. I continued to pray and waited patiently for God to guide me in the right direction. I discovered the TBS Master of Arts in Biblical History and Archaeology (MABHA) degree through Dr. Stripling in 2019 and believed God finally granted my requests. As Dr. Stripling helped guide my study strategy, I enrolled at TBS in 2022 after eight years of waiting patiently for the Lord’s guidance and timing. I recently completed my second semester and am grateful to TBS for providing distance learning. While living and working in India, I am taking courses in leadership, archaeology, theology, and church history. My studies are helping improve my understanding of workplace ethics in light of the Bible and helping in my work with prisoners. As I observe remarkable changes in their lives, I believe my TBS education is playing a huge role as God guides me in working to help set spiritual captives free. I believe the training offered by TBS is top-notch. Although I never considered myself capable of distance learning, the cutting-edge technology used allows such a high level of interactive participation that I feel as though I am very present in class. I receive support from professors and peers, everyone is encouraging and friendly, and I am able to interact with others both during and between class sessions. One intriguing aspect of TBS is that students can audit courses and keep the graded assignments to apply toward degree credit in the future. I am enjoying my studies of the Bible, biblical lands and civilizations, and history, and believe TBS education and training for ministry is one of the finest I have seen.

By: Dr. K. Lynn Lewis What is my calling? Where should I work? What should I do with my life? What is God’s best for me? How would God prefer I use my time, gifts and talents? Are there things He would prefer I NOT do, at least not right now, or maybe never again? Are there things I need to learn, to pursue, to train for? In seeking answers to these questions, I once made a list of 50 people I respected. I then arranged to meet with them one-on-one and asked them, “What do you do, and how did you know God wants you to do it?” At the time, I had a good job as an engineer. My boss, a strong Christian, had hired me as his protégé and my future in the engineering business looked bright. However, I had such a strong passion for ministry that I wanted to explore what serving in ministry as a profession might look like. I didn’t know, so I asked others what they were doing and why. Some were in business; some in education; some served as pastors, missionaries, or non-profit ministry leaders; some were family and friends. God did use many of their answers to help clarify His call in my life, both at the time and during the years since. It would be nice if those questions were answered once and for all, but, even where there is a clear call, how that call is lived out varies on a year-to-year, day-to-day basis. It has for me. I have sought to serve God faithfully as a student, an engineer, a pastor, a businessman, an educator, and an executive. I believe God wants to use me where I am, but He also seems to always be preparing for me for where He wants me to be. One measure I use is what I call “net kingdom gain.” Out of all of the choices set before me, which one(s) seem most likely to further advance the kingdom of God? Given who I am, and how God has made, gifted, and experienced me, how can I best serve Him and others? One businessman told me that God had gifted him with “knowing people and giving away money.” He wasn’t good in school, or working with his hands, or teaching or preaching or singing. But, he knew people, and He knew the Lord. So, he hired well-educated, competent people, invested in their lives and families, and their successful business blessed all of their lives and made a lot of money, a tithing portion of which he shared joyfully. Others confessed that God wanted them to lay some things down, or repurpose them for His kingdom, in ways that required significant life, work, and sometimes educational changes on their part. One person framed their own search this way. “Perhaps, anybody can do X,” they said, “My question is what is God’s unique call on my life, and how can I best live that out right now?” I also learned to include regular ebb and flow in my considerations. Working hard – putting our hands to whatever plow the Lord has given us – is part of our call. But so is eating, exercising, playing, resting, and worshiping well as part of a healthy, balanced life. Jesus lived out net Kingdom gain by choosing timely priorities. For a long time, working in the local Nazareth family business was his priority. Then, reaching a lost world through preaching, healing, and leading others was his priority. Sometimes, prayer alone, or offering to heal some people but not others, or going to a different town even though there was plenty to do locally, was his priority. Later, offering himself as a sacrifice for our sins was his priority. He did the math regularly, and chose His priorities accordingly, even when some of his actions seemed to make no sense at the time. So should we. Let’s do the math, and calculate our life actions and priorities according to net kingdom gain. Published in Meat and Potatoes for the Soul 2, © 2015 by K. Lynn Lewis. Original Post

By Dr. K. Lynn Lewis They kept thanking God, and helping others. Joseph ascended from a pit to a palace, thanked God that what his brothers meant for evil God meant for good, and helped his family and multiple nations survive a seven-year famine. Daniel descended from a palace to a pit, thanked God for shutting the mouths of lions, and faithfully served the Lord under a captor king to conserve a remnant of his people during a seventy-year exile. Moses moved from Egyptian prince to Midianite shepherd to Hebrew leader, thanked God continuously even amidst trials and tribulations, and shepherded God's chosen people into a tribal nation. David moved from shepherd boy to military hero to mighty king, thanked God continuously even amidst trials and tribulations, and shephereded his nation into a united kingdom. Nebuchadnezzar arrogantly lost his throne and royal authority for seven years, thanked God for His sovereignty and blessings following his return to sanity, and returned to greater power and glory in service to the people and temporal kingdom God granted him. Jesus humbly gave up his throne and royal authority for approximately 33 years, thanked God for His sovereignty and blessings throughout his trials and sacrifice, and returned to greater power and glory in service to the people and eternal kingdom God granted him. Barren Hannah and old Elizabeth became bold mothers, thanked God for their blessings, and gave their children up to serve the Lord and others in His name. Young unwed Mary became married Mother Mary, thanked God for His sovereign grace and mercy, and faithfully and temporally raised the Lord who would faithfully and eternally raise her. Likewise, in and through all of our own uniqure circumstances, The Bible Seminary (TBS) is full of thanksgiving today and always, for the Lord and for you, and for the many opportunities we have to help others in His name. We love you, and pray you have a happy and blessed Thanksgiving!

By Dr. K. Lynn Lewis If you have not already done so, would YOU please adopt at least one book in the TBS library today? Your contribution of $100 per book directly supports the TBS mission of training leaders in all 66 books of the Bible and helps build a legacy of faith until Jesus returns. We need your help. Will you join together with others to support TBS by adopting at least one book? Adoptions may include a dedication in honor or memory of someone special, and your personalized tribute will be included in a book highlighting your legacy gift. Adoptions can be made securely online, by mail, email, in-person, or by contacting our office. Adopt-a-Book today and join us in strengthening faith, training minds, and building Christian community. Don't delay. Adopt-a-Book today! The giving table above shows GOALs and ACTUAL support. For example, we are seeking 255 donors who will together contribute nearly $79,000 per month during the fiscal year. We currently have 50 donors contributing a little over $25,000 per month and are seeking 205 additional donors. For example: At the $100/month level, we are seeking 25 donors, currently have 13, and are seeking 12 more. At the $300/month level, we have 3 committed and are seeking 12 more. At the $2,000/month level, we have 2 committed, and are seeking 2 more. The Adopt-a-Book boxes show the number of books available for adoption and the number adopted so far.

By Dr. K. Lynn Lewis They thrived, even amidst great challenges. Joseph's brothers threw him in a pit and sold him as a slave. But, his new owner - Potiphar, Pharaoh's captain of the guard - saw that the Lord was with him and caused all that he did to succeed. Joseph persevered and found favor in his sight, and Potiphar made Joseph overseer of all that he had, until his wife's lies sent Joseph to prison. But, the prison keeper saw that the Lord was with Joseph and blessed the work of his hands, and he put him in charge of all the prisoners. Eventually, Pharoah saw the blessing of God over Joseph's life and made him second in command over all Egypt. (Genesis 37-41) The prophet Samuel anointed the young shepherd David, but David's seven older brothers ridiculed him. Then, David's boss (also his father-in-law) tried to kill him for years, but David persevered to become king over the united tribes of Israel. Ashpenaz, King Nebuchadnezzar's chief eunuch, captured Daniel and took him to Babylon, but Daniel persevered and rose to prominent leadership in Babylon's royal court. Paul faced beatings, hunger, imprisonment, lies, robbers, shipwrecks, snakebites, and untold other dangers. Yet, he planted churches around the Mediterranean and wrote much of the New Testament. Jesus warned and encouraged those he called and trained for leadership, "In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) The Bible Seminary (TBS) continues to offer leadership training today to those whom Jesus calls. While the blessings of the Lord are clearly evident in many, life and circumstances are not always easy. Your financial support helps TBS provide encouraging, life-changing, and ministry multiplying educational ministries. If you have not already, please: Adopt-a-Book in honor or memory of a loved one. General donation: HELP provide critical income toward funding TBS facilities, personnel, and programming. Great Commission Scholarship Fund: Up to $50,000 is available through a matching gift toward establishing a $100,000 scholarship endowment to generate income to benefit future students. Thank you for giving opportunities for others to lead and learn, to persevere when the going gets tough, and to display the blessings of the Lord in their lives, The giving table above shows GOALs and ACTUAL support. For example, we are seeking 255 donors who will together contribute nearly $79,000 per month during the fiscal year. We currently have 50 donors contributing a little over $25,000 per month and are seeking 205 additional donors. For example: At the $100/month level, we are seeking 25 donors, currently have 13, and are seeking 12 more. At the $300/month level, we have 3 committed and are seeking 12 more. At the $2,000/month level, we have 2 committed, and are seeking 2 more. The Adopt-a-Book boxes show the number of books available for adoption and the number adopted so far.

By Dr. K. Lynn Lewis Things were bad! Skyrocketing inflation, enraged leaders, abhorrent behaviors, and despondent citizens. The Aramean siege so decimated Samaria that four lepers decided that they preferred death at the hands of the enemy. Unbeknownst to them, the Lord frightened king Ben-Hadad’s soldiers into abandoning their camp and leaving abundant food and treasures behind. Although selfishly indulgent at first, the lepers decided it would be better to share their good fortune. “This is a day of good news and we are keeping it to ourselves,” they realized. “Let’s go at once and report this to the royal palace.” (2 Kings 7:9). By sharing their good news, they helped save their community. Similarly, after Andrew decided to follow Jesus, the first thing he did was find his brother Simon (Peter). “We have found the Messiah,” Andrew told him. And he brought him to Jesus. After Jesus found Philip and invited Philip to follow him, Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” “Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” Nathanael asked. “Come and see,” said Philip. (John 1:41-46) And that’s how the Gospel spread: Jesus finding lost people, and those people sharing the Good News with other people. The Bible Seminary (TBS) continues sharing this same wonderful news. We help disciples make more disciples by bringing them to Jesus, fielding questions, teaching, training, and sending them out to invite and disciple others. Your financial support helps us continue to read from the book of the Law of God, make it clear and give the meaning so that people can understand what is being read (Nehemiah 8:8). We invite your support in any or all of the following ways: Adopt-a-Book for $100 each in honor or memory of a loved one. General donation: HELP provide critical income toward the costs of TBS facilities, personnel, and programming. Great Commission Scholarship Fund: Up to $50,000 is available through a matching gift toward establishing a $100,000 scholarship endowment to generate income to benefit future students. Thank you for helping share the Good News about Jesus and for connecting your loved ones to TBS, The giving table above shows GOALs and ACTUAL support. For example, we are seeking 255 donors who will together contribute nearly $79,000 per month during the fiscal year. We currently have 50 donors contributing a little over $25,000 per month and are seeking 205 additional donors. For example: At the $100/month level, we are seeking 25 donors, currently have 13, and are seeking 12 more. At the $300/month level, we have 3 committed and are seeking 12 more. At the $2,000/month level, we have 2 committed, and are seeking 2 more. The Adopt-a-Book boxes show the number of books available for adoption and the number adopted so far.

By Dr. K. Lynn Lewis Following Jesus was not a game. The disciples didn't drop their nets, ledgers, and swords to go play around. They didn't study under Jesus' teaching because his classes were easy and fun. They didn't train under Jesus' coaching because his teams won championships. They didn't battle storms, climb mountains, confront demons, face ridicule, and touch lepers for entertainment. They didn't travel to villages, towns, and cities on a luxury tour with a paid guide and opportunities to take classic photos in iconic places. They didn't submit to inquiries, trials, and tribunals to jockey for political favors and name recognition. No, the disciples first followed Jesus THINKING he was the Messiah. They continued following increasingly BELIEVING he was the Messiah. And, after observing his death, burial, resurrection, and ascension, they followed KNOWING he was the Messiah. Thereafter, they dedicated their lives in service to the only One who had been given all authority on heaven and earth, Jesus Christ. They accepted his co-mission to go, make disciples of all nations, and baptize them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Bible Seminary (TBS) continues their legacy today. We are a family of disciples who have dedicated all that we are, all that we have, and all that we ever hope to the Lord God Almighty and His Son, Jesus Christ. Through the power of His Holy Spirit, we continue to spread and live out the Gospel in co-mission with Jesus. We serve in gratitude for the disciples who came before us, in love with the disciples with whom we co-laborer, and with hope for all the disciples who will come after as a result of all the faithful since the dawn of time. Your financial support in the following ways helps fund training disciples who want to help fulfill the Great Commission. Adopt-a-Book for $100 each in honor or memory of a loved one. General donation: HELP provide critical income toward the costs of TBS facilities, personnel, and programming. Great Commission Scholarship Fund: Up to $50,000 is available through a matching gift toward establishing a $100,000 scholarship endowment to generate income to benefit future students. Thank you for help fund disciples making more disciples, The giving table above shows GOALs and ACTUAL support. For example, we are seeking 255 donors who will together contribute nearly $79,000 per month during the fiscal year. We currently have 50 donors contributing a little over $25,000 per month and are seeking 205 additional donors. At the $100/month level, we are seeking 25 donors, currently have 13, and are seeking 12 more. At the $300/month level, we have 3 and are seeking 12 more. At the $2,000/month level, we have 2, and are seeking 2 more. The Adopt-a-Book boxes show the number of books available for adoption and the number adopted so far.

By Dr. K. Lynn Lewis The Lord sent them. Administrators and artisans, farmers and fishermen, mariners and merchants, physicians and politicians, scribes and shepherds. Kings and queens; princes and paupers; commanders and soldiers; cupbearers and teachers; husbands and wives; married and unmarried; Jews and Gentiles; formerly blind, deaf, demon-possessed, diseased, harlots, lepers, mutes, tax collectors, and zealots. Both the Old and New Testaments are filled with accounts of people the Lord called, rescued, redeemed, taught, touched, empowered, and employed to reach individuals, groups, communities and nations. Jesus sent out the Twelve, the 72, and many more to tell His story through their story in order to make disciples of all nations. "Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story" (Psalm 107:2-3) and "Go tell how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you" (Mark 5:19). That is why The Bible Seminary (TBS) alumni, Board, faculty, staff, students, and more serve as ministry leaders in multiple countries on five continents and in numerous cities and states across America. As TBS pours into them, they in turn share their witness and do good deeds that impact thousands of souls weekly near and far. Your financial support helps us train disciples of Jesus Christ to better tell their story and serve the Lord and others wherever they live and work. Thank you for giving us a voice to reach communities near and far through TBS, The giving table above shows GOALs and ACTUAL support. For example, we are seeking 255 donors who will together contribute $78,917 per month totaling $947,000 during the fiscal year. We currently have 50 donors contributing $25,258 per month and are seeking 205 additional donors. At the $100/month level, we are seeking 25 donors, currently have 12, and need 13 more. At the $2,000/month level, we are seeking 4 donors, currently have 2, and are seeking 2 more. The total columns show progress at each giving level as well as the overall totals. The Adopt-a-Book boxes show the number of books available for adoption and the number adopted so far.

By Dr. K. Lynn Lewis Jesus had a couple of busy, but revelatory days. As John chronicles those hours in his gospel, Jesus first goes up a mountain, teaches his disciples, multiplies five loaves and two fish to feed more than 5,000 men (not counting women and children) who followed them to listen and watch, and then walks across the Sea of Galilee through a nighttime storm on the way back to Capernaum where he and his disciples lived at the time. John then describes Jesus teaching in the Capernaum synagogue, fielding complaints, answering questions, and inviting belief in him. "I am the bread of life," Jesus declared, "for this is the will of my Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him will have eternal life, and I myself will raise them up on the last day" (John 6:35,40). Following a Passover-connected illustration in which Jesus referenced the need to eat his flesh and drink his blood in order to obtain eternal life, many disciples abandoned him, even after he clarified that his words were spirit and life. When Jesus asked the twelve if they wanted to leave, too, Peter replied, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we believe and know that you are the Holy One of God" (6:68-69). As do we, which is why we continue to teach Jesus' words of spirit and life. From Genesis to Revelation, old creation to new, sin to salvation, The Bible Seminary (TBS) exists to glorify God by impacting multitudes of souls for Christ and to help fulfill the Great Commission by the power of God’s Spirit. Through courses, seminars, productions, and publications, we are working to foster biblical literacy through studies of all 66 books of the Bible, cultivate professional and lay leadership skills, and deploy trained Christian disciples in service worldwide. Your financial support helps our faculty, staff, and others speak life into our students, as well as those they serve near and far. Thank you for giving Jesus a voice through TBS,

In this issue Giving Tuesday: Help make TBS possible! Public Reading of Scripture: Monday's at Noon Beyond: Daily prayer prompts TBS App: Download yours! Share your TBS experience: Leave a social media review Giving Tuesday Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” - Matthew 28:18-20 The Bible Seminary’s Board of Trustees recently approved the following two statements to help concisely capture the description of our role in fulfilling the Great Commission. YOU help make it possible for: WITHOUT YOU it is more challenging for: Faculty to TEACH archaeology, culture & languages, hermeneutics, history & theology, leadership, missions & evangelism, preaching & teaching, and spiritual formation & ministry. Staff to SERVE the Lord in administration, advancement, business, communications, education, and marketing. Students to affordably STUDY and TRAIN for ministry leadership. Alumni to GRADUATE debt-free (all 92 alumni so far have graduated free of seminary debt). Visitors to ENJOY our archaeological museum exhibits on campus, at local community events (like the Katy Community Expo) and international events (like the annual Evangelical Theological Society meeting), and on other church, college, and ministry campuses. TBS to HOST courses and seminars, for our leaders to WRITE, SPEAK, and PRESENT locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally. Three ways you can GIVE throughout November! Adopt-a-Book: PLEASE adopt at least one TBS library book for $100. Gratitude for adoptions in honor or memory of your loved one will be recorded on the inside cover of each book you adopt. General Donation: HELP provide critical income toward the $875,000 in charitable contributions needed this fiscal year to pay the costs of TBS facilities, personnel, and programming. TBS funding comes from tuition and fees (17%) and donations (83%). Fiscal year income June through October 2023 has been VERY LOW and SLOW. We are asking all TBS family and friends to join together to help provide the monthly and annual financial resources needed to carry out our exciting, life-changing, and community-impacting vision and mission. Our world has serious problems, and TBS is working weekdays, weeknights, and weekends to teach and train ministry leaders who live and work in communities near and far to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ. Together, we can keep making a positive difference, but we desperately need your help to continue to do so!! Great Commission Scholarship Fund: Up to $50,000 is available through a matching gift toward establishing a $100,000 scholarship endowment to generate income to benefit future students. Note: All donations are charitable and tax-deductible as allowed by law. If you have any legal questions, please see your tax advisor for more information. Donate ONLINE (click any link above), by MAIL (see mailing address at end), or by TEXT (see below). Text "Any Amount" to 84321 Follow prompt link. Search for "The Bible Seminary." Create your profile. Add or select a payment method. Submit a donation. After this one-time setup, you can TEXT your donation amount to 84321 to make an online donation. Public Reading of Scripture Beyond Prayer Campaign This one-year prayer initiative launched in September and will continue through August 2024. Enjoy daily prayer prompts on social media as well as companion podcasts, news articles, events, and more. Download the TBS App! We are thrilled to announce the launch of The Bible Seminary's brand-new app, now available on both Apple and Android stores! Enjoy an easy and convenient way to stay connected to The Bible Seminary. Features include instant access to courses, event notifications, and a rich library of video resources. It is the perfect tool for students, alumni, and anyone interested in deepening their understanding of the Bible. Download your TBS App today! Share your experience! Please take a moment to leave a review on Great Non-Profits and Google to let others know how awesome TBS is! Your feedback is invaluable in helping us improve and serve our community better. Thank you! *Click each logo to leave your review. 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), an approved participant in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-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 RD KATY TX 77450-1772 Mailing 23501 CINCO RANCH BLVD STE H120-930 KATY TX 77494-3109 E-mail: info@TheBibleSeminary.edu Phone: 281-646-1109 Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 9 AM - 4 PM