Catholic Scripture Study

This study explores the narratives of the synoptic tradi- tion, giving serious reflection to the “hard sayings” of Jesus about the way of discipleship and the vocation of every Christian to evangelize through their own lives of faithful witness. The Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles also place great emphasis on the gift of the Holy Spirit who is given to all who are willing to become like children to enter the kingdom of God.

The first five books of the bible, also called the Torah, are the foundation of God’s covenant with Israel and very important for the new Israel, the Church. The timeless stories of the Patriarchs, their encounters and covenants with the One True God who blesses all nations through them, are very instructive for all of us who desire to walk by faith in the pilgrimage of this life.

John’s Gospel is rich with symbol and insight as he captures the majesty of the Eternal Word dwelling among us and the irony that ensues when the One who was with God in the beginning and who was God comes among His people, but His own do not recognize Him. He is the “Lamb of God” who takes away the sins of the world, who gives his life as ransom for our sins. He is the faithful Son and suffering servant who reveals the Father’s love and reconciles us to Himself.

This study draws our attention to the prophets and the prophetic tradition in Israel. Beginning with Moses and Joshua, we are challenged with Israel to “choose this day whom we will serve.” With Joshua we seek to respond, “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord!” These prophetic books remind us to faithfully live as children of the light, a theme which is echoed in the study of the Book of Revelation as well.

The first half of this study is devoted to the wisdom and beauty of the Psalms, Proverbs, the Book of Job, The Wisdom of Solomon, Ecclesias- tes and Ecclesiasticus. The second part studies Saint Paul’s epistles, the letter to the Hebrews, the letters of Peter, James and Jude. It offers much insight into the call to holiness in living the Christian life in community and the call to help heal and trans- form our world as members of Christ’s Body.