Spark Cast

Perhaps the most important aspect of this topic are the stories of real life people who have wrestled with this issue. In this portion, three Sparker share their journeys and perspectives, giving us further insight and understanding into the realities of this issue.

In this segment, we delve deep into the subject of "hermeneutics," the art and science of interpretation. Understanding that we all do this, all the time, in virtually every area of life is a really important foundation for when we get to understanding the Biblical texts.

In this opening talk, we have "the talk before the talk," a variety of things that need to be said before we say anything about "the issue."

Dr. Curt Rhodes of Questscope continues the discussion with some Q&A from our congregation.

Dr. Curt Rhodes of Questscope shares intimate and powerful stories of his work in Jordan and Syria, on the ground, and in close relationship with refugees, fighters, and NGOs.

As we conclude Leviticus, let us not forget our story. Even laws, commands, and rituals, according to the writers of the Bible, are not segregated from the historical narrative. So, if you ever find yourself in a discussion about the seemingly arbitrary or confusing verses of Leviticus, invite the conversation to consider the chapters of the story that led us there in the first place. Frame Leviticus in the whole story, beginning with Genesis 1:1.

In the year of Jubilee all debts are forgiven, and all prisoners go free. Not only is this an expression of justice, but it is a way of living that liberates us from the shackles of debt. Whatever dues you may think you owe, Jubilee declares, with a trumpet blast, that you don't owe God anything!

Leviticus 23 gives us the festival calendar by which we mark seasons and celebrations. Not only is this a way to keep time, it is also a way to awaken ourselves to God's presence in the celebration.

All ancient cultures had religious rituals and practices. All ancient cultures also had laws. Only in Israel, however, do the two come together. Leviticus 19 calls us to consider a public justice that is deeply connected to and flows from our personal religious devotion.

What is "leprosy" in the Bible? Contrary to popular understanding, it is not the modern disease known as "Hansen's disease." Rather, there is a ritual impurity that is connected to other passages that compel us to consider deeply the community in which we live, and the words we speak that either connect or isolate us from that community.