Samford University’s Beeson Divinity School has been training men and women to serve in churches for 37 years, but you don’t have to be a student to learn from its world-renowned faculty.
Beeson’s Lay Academy of Theology offers laypersons a chance to take a variety of classes focusing on different subjects each semester, helping attendees deepen their biblical knowledge or perhaps enhance their own ministries.
In 2001, Beeson offered the first course, a non-credit, seminary-style course designed to reach the local community, said the academy’s director, Jim Pounds.
“The Lay Academy idea began during a study of offering in-depth theological study to laypersons in the community who had begun to express interest in taking a class with a Beeson professor but didn’t want to take exams,” Pounds said.
Over time, the offerings increased and now average about four classes per semester, with most classes meeting for six weeks.
Spending time in study with Beeson professors and other students allows attendees to expand their knowledge and understanding of God’s Word, and helps the faculty interact with laypersons, something they enjoy but don’t often get to do, Pounds said.
Beeson professors spend a great deal of time working on writing projects and the classes also allow them a space to gather feedback from possible readers, Pounds said.
Pounds said the classes have helped him over the years, as well.
“Over the last 24 years, this program has allowed me to meet and interact with hundreds of the some of the finest godly men and women in the area,” Pounds said. “Several have become very good friends, and many have taught me about their church backgrounds and traditions in a way that I would have never been privileged to experience. In a way, I (and the professors) often feel that these relationships have benefited us much more than our efforts have served those who have joined us over the years.”
Anyone is welcome to take a class. Classes are offered both in-person and virtually.
This spring, four different classes will be offered:
“Finding Meaning in Life Despite Everything: A Study of Ecclesiastes” – Led by new Old Testament professor Alex Kirk, this class offers a deep study of a book that offers a “profound meditation on human finitude and the meaning of life that is as fresh today as it was in ancient Israel.”
“Jesus’ Parables” – Led by Sydney Park, this class examines the primary means by which Jesus taught His listeners about the coming kingdom of God.
“Reading the Bible Again for the First Time: Teaching and Illustrating Interpretation” – Led by Ken Mathews, this course walks attendees through the basics of biblical interpretation of various genres found in Scripture.
“Unlocking Revelation” – Revelation is one of the Bible’s most exciting and yet difficult books to understand. Frank Thielman will lead a discussion on how to best understand the mysteries of Revelation by exploring it in its original first-century Roman context.
Classes begin in late February. Scan the QR code or visit Samford.edu/beeson-divinity/lay-academy to register today!
