Reading & Interpreting The Bible, Read the Scriptures with Confidence, Clarity, and Christ at the Center Reading and studying the Word of God is a lifelong adventure. But how do we know we’re interpreting it faithfully? How do we make sense of ancient texts filled with mystery, poetry, prophecy, and apocalyptic imagery? In this course, Reading and Interpreting the Bible, Chad Bird invites you into the grand story of Scripture, a story that stretches from Genesis to Revelation and is still alive and speaking today. You’ll learn how to read both carefully and confidently, paying attention to context and genre while following the Bible’s overarching narrative that always leads us to Christ and our life in Him. This course introduces essential interpretive tools for reading the Bible with clarity, depth, and faithfulness, equipping students to hear God’s voice in His Word and to teach and share the Scriptures with confidence. Topics Covered in the Course How to read the Bible both big-picture and close-up Why context and genre matter when interpreting Scripture How to read narratives, law, poetry, wisdom, Gospels, epistles, and apocalyptic literature How the Bible’s many voices tell one unified story How Scripture consistently leads us to Christ How to read the Bible not just as ancient text, but as God’s living Word for today Let's Get Started This course contains seven sessions, each containing a video lesson, course notes, and a quiz. You are also invited to join the discussion throughout the course as you watch these videos. You can complete this course at your own pace. So we encourage you to work through it at whatever pace is most comfortable for you. At the end, you will receive a 'Course Completion Certificate' via email. , Academy Courses, Sections : Biblical Studies and Exegesis
The Inklings: Apostles and Apologists of the Imagination, Dive into the World of C.S. Lewis and the Inklings This course is intended to survey The Inklings: an informal group with C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien and others that fostered friendships and literary criticism, leading to an extraordinary and enduring body of work. Their history showcases God's gifts of imagination, goodness, truth, and beauty. The Inklings’ lives and writings remain deeply influential and richly imaginative. Topics Covered in the Course Introducing these Apostles and Apologists of the Imagination Who Were the Inklings? Friendship, Faith, and the Sanctified Imagination The Two Towers of the Inklings: C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien God's Gift of the Imagination Eucatastrophe and the Evangelium Imagination and the Christian Faith and more... Let's Get Started This course contains eight sessions, each containing a video lesson, course notes, and a quiz. You are also invited to join the discussion throughout the course as you watch these videos. You can complete this course at your own pace. So, we encourage you to work through it at whatever pace is most comfortable for you. At the end, you will receive a 'Course Completion Certificate' via email. , Academy Courses, Sections : Christian History
The Early Church: Christ, Controversies and Characters, Explore the beginnings of Christianity Discover how a small, persecuted group transformed into the world's largest religion. Uncover the pivotal controversies, influential figures, and the unyielding faith that propelled the early Christian church forward. This eight-lecture series offers a deep dive into the early church’s life, exploring the foundational moments and teachings that influence Christianity today. From worship practices to the courage of martyrs, this course connects the past with the present in an engaging and insightful manner. Topics Covered in the Course Key figures in early Christian history and their contributions to theology. The major controversies that shaped Christian doctrine. The daily life, worship practices, and challenges of early Christians. The role of art, music, and sacraments in early Christian communities. The defense of Christianity by the first apologists and the bravery of the martyrs. If you are interested in the history of Christianity, church traditions, or the enduring legacy of the early church fathers, this course is for you. Let's Get Started This course contains eight sessions, each containing a video lesson, course notes, and a quiz. You are also invited to join the discussion throughout the course as you watch these videos. You can complete this course at your own pace. So we encourage you to work through it at whatever pace is most comfortable for you. At the end, you will receive a 'Course Completion Certificate' via email. , Academy Courses, Sections : Christian History
Faith and Reason, Have you ever wrestled with challenging questions and found yourself torn between your faith and reason? Are you seeking to delve deeper into the profound connections between theology and philosophy, religion and science, and how they relate to your Christian beliefs? Perhaps, your own journey has forced you to ask the question: Is Christian Faith Reasonable ? In today's world, where questions abound and answers seem elusive, this course aims to equip you with the tools to navigate the intricacies of faith and reason from a distinctly Christian perspective. Developed by 1517, this captivating exploration will delve into the age-old debates and seek biblical insights to some of the most profound philosophical and theological queries. Join Dr. Adam Francisco–1517 Scholar-in-Residence, 1517 Academic Director, and editor of, "The Resurrection Fact"–as he explores the relationship between faith and reason. Topics Covered in the Course Faith and Reason: An Introduction What does Jerusalem have to do with Athens? Where does reason end and faith begin? Can God’s existence be proved by reason? What does theology have to do with science? Is Christian faith reasonable? Let's Get Started This course contains six sessions, each containing a video lesson, course notes, and a quiz. You are also invited to join the discussion throughout the course as you watch these videos. You can complete this course at your own pace. So we encourage you to work through it at whatever pace is most comfortable for you. At the end, you will receive a 'Course Completion Certificate' via email. , Academy Courses, Sections : Apologetics
Christ in the Old Testament, Why should we bother studying the Old Testament when we have the New Testament? It's a legitimate question and one worth considering. One important reason is this.... The Old Testament is the Bible that Jesus Read. When we're reading the Old Testament, we're reading a book that is all about Christ. When Christ talked about himself, and when his earliest believers talked about who he was and what he was accomplishing through his acts of salvation, they referred to the Old Testament. Join Chad Bird–Old Testament scholar and author of, "Upside-Down Spirituality: The 9 Essential Failures of a Faithful Life"–as he explores the beautiful Christology that is layered in the Old Testament stories, prophecies, and psalms. Topics Covered in the Course The Bible That Jesus Read (Introduction) Christophanies, or Appearances of Christ Christological Pencil Sketches Thematic Layering of Creation and Exodus The Holy Skin of God in the Tabernacle, Altar, and Priesthood Christ as the Key of David Let's Get Started This course contains six sessions, each containing a video lesson, course notes, and a quiz. You are also invited to join the discussion throughout the course as you watch these videos. You can complete this course at your own pace. So we encourage you to work through it at whatever pace is most comfortable for you. At the end, you will receive a 'Course Completion Certificate' via email. , Academy Courses, Sections : Biblical Studies and Exegesis
Introduction to Apologetics, At some point in your life, you are going to encounter people who object to Christianity–perhaps, you already have. Maybe it is a friend or family member who cannot believe that an all-powerful, all-loving God exists, given all of the pain and suffering in the world. Or, maybe it’s a coworker who insists that miracles simply do not happen and, therefore, Christ could not have risen from the dead. 1 Peter 3:15 exhorts all Christians to “be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have,” and to do so with gentleness and respect. Join Dr. Adam Francisco–Editor of ‘The Resurrection Fact’ and Executive Editor of 1517–as he explains the basics of Apologetics and helps you answer tough apologetic questions. Topics Covered in the Course What is Apologetics? The Historical Apologetic Approach Arguments for God's Existence The Integrity of the New Testament The Apologetic Task Today Let's Get Started This course contains five sessions, each containing a video lesson, course notes, and a quiz. You are also invited to join the discussion throughout the course as you watch these videos. You can complete this course at your own pace. So we encourage you to work through it at whatever pace is most comfortable for you. , Academy Courses, Sections : Apologetics
Theology of the Augsburg Confession, In 1521, Martin Luther was banned from the Roman Catholic church for his teachings. In response, Luther and the first evangelicals of the Protestant Reformation insisted on a church council. Through official Church practice, they wanted to show that they were teaching biblical Christianity. Meanwhile, The Holy Roman Emperor and the Pope were distracted by the very real threat of a foreign invasion, so they quickly dismissed the idea. But by 1530, this war of words in Northern Germany had reached a boiling point. In the town of Augsburg, the record was set straight: The Augsburg Confession, which emerges from this meeting, outlines what Luther and the first evangelicals believed. Join Dr. Scott Keith–1517 Executive Director, Professor of Theology, and author of, "Being Dad: Father as a Picture of God's Grace"–as he guides us through the Augsburg Confession and explains its key elements. Topics Covered in the Course Historical Introduction Articles I-V: God, Original Sin, The Son of God, Justification, Office of the Ministry Articles VI-X: The New Obedience, The Church, Baptism, The Lord's Supper Articles XI-XIV: Confession, Repentance, Use of the Sacraments, Strength in the Church Articles XV-XIX: Church Usages, Civil Government, The Return of Christ to Judgment Articles XVIII-XXI: Freedom of the Will, The Cause of Sin, Faith and Good Works, The Worship of the Saints Let's Get Started This course contains six sessions, each containing a video lesson, course notes, and a quiz. You are also invited to join the discussion throughout the course as you watch these videos. You can complete this course at your own pace. So we encourage you to work through it at whatever pace is most comfortable for you. At the end, you will receive a 'Course Completion Certificate' via email. , Academy Courses, Sections : Theology and Doctrine
A Brief History of the Reformation, Discover The Complex and Fascinating World of The Protestant Reformation. Have you ever wondered why the Protestant Reformation took place when it did? Or, if it was really a success, in light of what happened after it? In order to understand the Western European Reformation of the 16th century, it helps to look at the world outside of Western Europe during that time. Centuries of civil war and strife left many of the kingdoms in modern day Asia and India without strong leadership, and thus were susceptible to takeover and consolidation by the Mongols and others “Barbarian” Hordes. To protect western Europe (often referred to as “Christendom” in those days), rulers such as Pope Leo X were in desperate need of two things: (1) Money and (2) Support. This gave way to the Indulgence controversy, which eventually sparked a schism in the Church. Join Dr. Daniel van Voorhis–Author and Host of Christian History Alamanac–as he explores the context and major characters of the 16th c. Reformation. Topics Covered in the Course The World on the Eve of the Reformation (Introduction) The Story of the Reformation and Martin Luther The Radical and Rural Reformation Tracing the Reformation Beyond Germany Let's Get Started This course contains four sessions, each containing a video lesson, course notes, and a quiz. You are also invited to join the discussion throughout the course as you watch these videos. You can complete this course at your own pace. So we encourage you to work through it at whatever pace is most comfortable for you. At the end, you will receive a 'Course Completion Certificate' via email. , Academy Courses, Sections : Christian History
The History of Christianity in America, As we approach the story of Christianity in America, we may adopt a title that's a little more precise, such as: "The Evangelicals in America" There are many ways to tell the story of a people or a region...In this course we will be looking at the story of America through the lens of the predominant religious belief system of those who would form the government and culture of the United States of America. Join Dr. Daniel van Voorhis–Historian, Author, and Host of The Christian History Almanac Podcast–as he explores the surprising history of Christianity in America. Topics Covered in the Course The early colonies and their European backgrounds The first and second great Awakening A Distinctly American Theology Christianity and the Courts The Fundamentalist/Modernist Controversy "Evangelicals" and the Modern Megachurch Let's Get Started This course contains eight sessions, each containing a video lesson, course notes, and a quiz. You are also invited to join the discussion throughout the course as you watch these videos. You can complete this course at your own pace. So we encourage you to work through it at whatever pace is most comfortable for you. At the end, you will receive a 'Course Completion Certificate' via email. , Academy Courses, Sections : Christian History
The Life of Christ According to Luke, "Who do you say that I am?" This is the question that Jesus asked Peter and the disciples as he revealed himself as the Son of the living God. Indeed, this is the question that each of us must answer today. C.S. Lewis pointed out that Jesus as simply a 'Great Moral Teacher' wasn't an option he left open for us. He says, "A man who was merely a man and said the sort of things Jesus said...either is the son of God: or else a madman or something worse.” So where can we go to seek out an answer? Study the Life and Teachings of Christ According to the Gospel of Luke. Join Daniel Emery Price and Erick Sorensen–Co-hosts of 30 Minutes in the New Testament–as they guides us through the acts, the teaching, the death, and the resurrection of Jesus according to the Gospel of Luke. Topics Covered in the Course Why Should We Study Luke's Gospel The Claims of Jesus The Works (Miracles) of Jesus The Teachings of Jesus The Passion of Jesus The Resurrection of Jesus Let's Get Started This course contains six sessions, each containing a video lesson, course notes, and a quiz. You are also invited to join the discussion throughout the course as you watch these videos. You can complete this course at your own pace. So we encourage you to work through it at whatever pace is most comfortable for you. At the end, you will receive a 'Course Completion Certificate' via email. , Academy Courses, Sections : Biblical Studies and Exegesis
Masks of God...The Lutheran Doctrine of Vocation, How shall we live? What is the good life? What is the value of a person? What is my place in this world? Is God active in this world? The Doctrine of Vocation Uniquely Answers These Questions. From the Hebrew concept of Shalom (wholeness/well-being) to the Greek concept of Eudaimonia (happiness) and even to the American notion that all people have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, great thinkers have pondered what it means for humans to flourish. A certain level of security, prosperity, and freedom are essential components of human flourishing. God provides each of these through Vocation. Join Michael Berg–assistant professor of theology at Wisconsin Lutheran College and author of the 1517 Publishing book, Vocation: The Setting for Human Flourishing–as he explores the topic of Vocation and the myriad of ways that God uses Vocation to serve his people. Topics Covered in the Course Vocation as the Setting for Human Potential (Introduction) Vocation as the Setting for Spiritual Warfare Vocation as the Setting for Sanctification Vocation as the Setting for Purpose Vocation as the Setting for a Wider Liberality Vocation as the Setting for Human Flourishing Let's Get Started This course contains seven sessions, each containing a video lesson, course notes, and a quiz. You are also invited to join the discussion throughout the course as you watch these videos. You can complete this course at your own pace. So we encourage you to work through it at whatever pace is most comfortable for you. At the end, you will receive a 'Course Completion Certificate' via email. , Academy Courses, Sections : Theology and Doctrine
Theology of the Cross vs. Theologies of Glory...What is the Difference?, Writing to the Corinthians, the Apostle Paul wrote, "I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified." What did he mean by this? Christ Crucified on the Cross Tells Us What We Need to Know About God and His Saving Work. For Paul, Christ crucified was not simply to be a part of the message. It was the whole and only message for the Church of Christ. Echoing Paul, Luther proclaimed early in his career as a reformer that “the cross is our theology.” Our christian lives are held in tension between the now and the 'not-yet.' Only in Glory shall we experience what it is like to be free from all the effects of sin and evil and not a day before. What has plagued the Church through the ages has been attractive yet false promises that if believers will just please God more in certain prescribed ways, he will grant experiences of glory right now. Luther called these false 'Theologies of Glory.' Join Dr. Steven A. Hein–Director of the Concordia Institute for Christian Studies and author of the 1517 Publishing book, The Christian Life: Cross or Glory?–as he explores these competing theologies and how they apply to the Christian life. Topics Covered in the Course Theology of the Cross: What is it? (Introduction) Baptism Connects Us to The Cross Theology of the Cross vs. Glory: What's the Difference? Once you Get Saved, Then What? Spiritual Warfare and Vocation Ready to Get Started? This course contains six sessions, each containing a video lesson, course notes, and a quiz. You are also invited to join the discussion throughout the course as you watch these videos. You can complete this course at your own pace. So we encourage you to work through it at whatever pace is most comfortable for you. At the end, you will receive a 'Course Completion Certificate' via email. , Academy Courses, Sections : Theology and Doctrine
Survey of Christ in the Old Testament, Understand the Old Testament Like Never Before This course is intended to survey the literature of the Old Testament to discern prophecies, patterns, and foreshadowings of the Messiah. Students are introduced to interpretive methods of biblical study, the ritual system and sanctuary symbolism of Israel, and historical understandings of the Messiah in the Old Testament, while exploring the ramifications this entails for teaching and preaching on the Old Testament in the church today. Topics Covered in the Course Big Picture and Fine Details The Layered Bible: Metalepsis and Intertextuality Prophecies and Jewish Expectations of the Messiah Christophanies: Walking Backward to Bethlehem Pencil Sketches: How Old Testament Individuals Outlined the Messiah’s Colorful Life The Genesis of Revelation: Old Creation, New Creation, and the Messiah Exodus Events: Passover, Red Sea, Manna, Water Rock, Bronze Serpent Exoduses: Exile and Return as the Messianic Mission The Sanctuary Garden of God: Eden as Temple and Temple as Neo-Eden Furnished for Atonement: Sacrifices and Sanctuary Furnishings Sacred Time and the Messiah The Psalms as the Prayerbook of Jesus and the Church Let's Get Started This course contains twelve sessions, each containing a video lesson. You can complete this course at your own pace. So we encourage you to work through it at whatever pace is most comfortable for you. At the end, you will receive a 'Course Completion Certificate' via email. , Academy Courses, Sections : Biblical Studies and Exegesis
