Kids aren’t the only ones headed back to school to start learning again after the long summer break. Adults in Catholic Parishes across the country are also gearing up for their Fall Catholic Bible studies.
You will love discovering all the little nuggets and gems tucked away that emerge as a reward for those who look for them. For example, last year in my Parish’s group Bible study we learned an interesting fact supporting the primacy of Peter. We’re all familiar with the Bible passage where Jesus hands the keys of the kingdom to Peter in Matthew 16:18: “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church.”
But what we didn’t know is that this action on Jesus’ part was recalling a much earlier event that occurred in Old Testament history. In Isaiah 22:22 we find an account of a chief steward being given the keys of authority to rule the kingdom in the king’s stead. Jesus is actually calling to mind this specific passage in Isaiah when he speaks to Peter, an unmistakable sign that Jesus truly was giving authority over the Church to Peter. Our group didn’t know that! And this is just one instance of those little gems.
There is a popular saying that “The Old Testament is the New Testament concealed, and the New Testament is the Old Testament revealed.” Catholic Bible study books make this connection clear and help you to understand God’s revelation more fully. I also get excited when I look back and see how much I’ve grown both in my knowledge of the faith as well as the spiritual benefits I’ve reaped as a result of having a greater Biblical understanding.
For a great at-home Bible Study, check out the Ascension Press Bible in a Year podcast with Fr. Mike Schmidt (can be started at any time of the year):
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If we consider that God is the Divine Bridegroom and the Church is his Bride, then the prophets can be seen as “spiritual marriage counselors.” They afflict the comfortable and comfort the afflicted, calling us to return to our covenant relationship with God. They urge us to repentance, warn us of the dangers of sin, and announce the blessings of faithfulness. Their prophetic words speak to us even today, as they draw us closer to our heavenly Bridegroom.
In Prophets: Messengers of God’s Mercy, a ten-part Bible study, you will come to know the prophets and their messages shed light on our faith and our lives. Participants will meet every week to view an engaging video presentation followed by a time of lively group discussion and fellowship.
Our Prophets Bible study will begin on Mondays, October 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31 at 7:00 p.m., in the Maximillian Room. For more information or to register for the study, see Joe Mullen, 570-784-0801 x 4 or register and/or order a Study Guide. We hope you can join us!
What to do first
To become part of one of our Parish’s Bible Study groups:
Contact
Joe Mullen
Director of Adult Education
570.784.0801 Ext. 4
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