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The Bible and Beyond presents explorations of historical and spiritual questions about Jesus, women, salvation, healing, the meaning of life, and where Christianity came from.
You can read articles and blog posts, listen to our podcasts, participate in our monthly discussions, take one of our online courses, or arrange for a presentation on any of several topics. If you want to learn even more, check out the Bible and Beyond Resources page, with links to more information from other sources.
Don’t be shy! Comments are open on all the articles, posts, and podcasts. Your thoughts help the whole community see from a broader perspective. Comment policy is available here.
Your questions and ideas about The Bible and Beyond will help guide what topics are chosen for discussion, so don’t hesitate use the form at the bottom of this page to share your suggestions with us.
While Weak Leaders Claim Persecution, Norea Claims Strength
Even worse in my eyes is the way Athanasius staged a comeback and regained power, time and again, by gaslighting people into believing that he was not a criminal, but instead, the ultimate victim.
Who Was the Beloved Disciple?
What counts about the student is not his name but that he is loved by Jesus, is in his bosom. That is how he is to be known.
Jewish and Christian Traditions in the Didache
The author reveres Jesus as a servant of God, a prophet, and follows the Jewish law. It would seem that assumptions of many regarding the early separation of Judaism and Christianity may have been wrong.
Early Christian Texts creates online courses for those who want to find out more about the ancient texts. Learn about the remarkable spiritual gems these texts contain, gems that illuminate the Bible and strengthen its meaning in everyday life.
Online courses are available through the Udemy learning platform and the People’s Catholic Seminary. Early Christian Texts offers live online hybrid courses throughout the year, which combine online lectures with several interactive Zoom discussion sessions.
Learn more about the Bible and Beyond Courses.
Once a month, at 8:00–9:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Monday nights (generally the fourth of the month), Early Christian Texts hosts a presentation and discussion of one of the early Christian texts. Dr. Hal Taussig, who leads the sessions, shares a well-framed overview of the particular text, and gives time for all participants to ask questions or share their own insights about the meanings and potential for these texts.
Read Ancient Texts Outside the Bible
Throughout most of Christian history – even when there was a canon – people felt it was worth telling other stories around the edges and in between the scenes of the canon.
Introductory and In-Depth Online or In-Person Presentations by Shirley Paulson, PhD
The Bible and Beyond Presentation series offers courses and workshops designed for use by churches, conferences, and organizations. Providing a unique opportunity for participants to experience introductory or in-depth classes on various aspects of early Christian texts, the presentations can be offered in-person or online. The combination of Shirley Paulson’s experience with healing, scholarship, and research in Practical Theology evokes ever-new questions and conversations based on ancient texts. Shirley has nearly two decades of experience presenting lectures, classes, and workshops on early texts.
Learn more about the variety of presentations offered.
Questions or suggestions for future topics?
Have a question or suggestion you’d like to be addressed in the future? Here’s the form for you!
For longer comments or questions, it will be easier to use the contact form here.