LunchTime Discussions with Rev. Dr. Tim Moore
Practicing Midrash: Reading the Bible’s Arguments as an Invitation to Conversation

Dates | Thursdays, Nov 12, 19, Dec 3, 10, and Jan 7 & 14
Time | 12:00–1:00 p.m.
Place | Shalom Hall

Interim Senior Minister Tim Moore will be leading discussions on his book, Practicing Midrash: Reading the Bible’s Arguments as an Invitation to Conversation, during Thursday Lunch Breaks on November 12, 19; December 3, 10; and January 7 and 14, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. Each session will end promptly at 1:00 p.m. so those returning to work can get back to the office on time.

The first session, this Thursday, will focus on Chapter 1, “Which God Created the World?” We’ll discuss the two creation stories that open the Bible in Genesis 1-3. There is no need to read the chapter before this first session. Copies of the book will be available for purchase for future weeks, when reading ahead may be beneficial.

Most major stories in the Bible are told more than once, and, surprisingly, the different versions often reflect different theological perspectives. The creation story in Genesis 2 differs significantly from the creation story in Genesis 1. There are three versions of the Ten Commandments in the Torah, and one is dramatically different from the other two. More importantly, they offer different understandings of a key aspect of God's character.

Many stories about Jesus and his teachings also appear multiple times in the Gospels, often with notable differences. Did Jesus say, “Blessed are the poor,” or did he say, “Blessed are the poor in spirit”? What do those differences mean?

The differences, or arguments, within the Bible are part of what makes it a “living word.” Scripture often presents two, three, or even more ways of understanding a story or teaching. Then, through conversation with one another, we discern what God's word means for us today. In that way, the Bible remains a living document.

Bring your own lunch. Drinks will be provided.