The discourse on biblical relations and methodology in the Bible is very crucial. It has long provoked debate and intellectual dispute, both in classical Christian thought and in contemporary biblical studies. In several Christian-majority countries, this debate not only invites conflict among Christians but also becomes a disruption for the country. The context of biblical relations and methodology in Indonesia has passed through various times, generations, and styles of church and theological education.
There is no outcome and the final decision of a long debate among biblical scholars to agree on the form of the biblical form and its methodology, coupled with the consideration of the plurality of denominations or streams of churches and cultures framed within “Christianity”. Biblical studies with the Bible as the basis of study, has been a guide for the long history of the journey of Theology, in the process of social, economic, religious, cultural, and political.
In the long history of biblical studies, various approaches have emerged that seek to explore the richness of biblical interpretation. Various approaches in methodology, also shows that the richness of the Bible up to now continues to face global challenges and is no longer a threat to others. Even in recent centuries, several methods and approaches to biblical studies have emerged.
New methods and approaches in biblical studies are not a threat or can threaten the unity and unity of God’s people, but become the wealth of Christianity in interpreting and living the word of God in the lives of Christians in the world and in theology education. In Addition, the richness of methods and approaches of biblical studies links one field of science to another.
B. Name and Theme
The conference is named “International Seminar on Biblical Studies” with the theme “Biblical Studies in Multi-Perspective Approaches.”
This major theme will be discussed during a series of dialogue sessions, focusing on topics: Perspective and Approaches into Biblical Studies.
C. Time and Place
The International Seminar on Biblical Studies will take place over two days, from April 24-25, 2024, by online (zoom online) at the Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Moriah, Jalan CBD Barat Kav.1, Kelapa Dua, Tangerang, Banten, Indonesia.
D. Objectives
The International Seminar on Biblical Studies aims to harmonize the perceptions of biblical scholars, lecturers, Christian leaders, and students regarding their important role in responding to the multi-perspective approaches. biblical scholars, lecturers, Christian leaders, and students will take the initiative to deliver methodologies and moral messages, and lead movements to encourage people to biblical studies.
The seminar will also explore ideas, suggestions, inputs, and recommendations from biblical scholars regarding methodologies, perspectives, and approaches to biblical studies. Through this conference, biblical scholars, lecturers, Christian leaders, and students will also encourage church leaders, theology education, and related parties to take immediate steps to explore Christian people and local communities and live in maturity.
E. Description
This conference will emphasize discussions on the following points:
- Moral imperatives: how nature conservation is viewed from the perspective of biblical studies, the relationship between humans and nature, and the importance of balance in life.
- Cooperation between biblical and methodologies: promoting inclusive dialogue between experts (biblical scholars, lecturers, Christian leaders, and students) regarding scientific findings and religious moral values in efforts for sustainable development and biblical nature.
- Influencing policy: formulating recommendations for policymakers to better reflect the shared contextual responsibility towards humanity and nature.
- Engaging the community: empowering communities, Christian institutions, women, clerics, and youth to play a role in realizing sustainable development.
F. Expected Outcomes
The conference is expected to formulate the following outcomes:
- A joint declaration on the commitment of biblical scholars, lecturers, Christian leaders, and students to prioritize moral and religious aspects in achieving sustainable biblical studies.
- Building awareness of the importance of collective initiatives to actively participate in preserving nature and preventing the impacts of biblical studies by formulating concrete steps in all fields.
- Formulation of biblical multi-perspective approaches at the local, national, and international levels, demanding justice for vulnerable communities and those affected by mature people.
- Formulation of partnerships between biblical scholars, lecturers, Christian leaders, students, and various stakeholders to strengthen efforts for sustainable biblical development and nature.
G. Participants
The seminar will be attended by 150 participants, with 125 participants from within the country, including representatives from the Government (Ministry of Religious Affairs and other Ministries/Institutions), a theological college, Christian schools, churches, and Non-Govermental Organizations (NGOs).
Accommodation of participants at the responsibility of each participant.
The remaining 25 participants will be representatives from abroad, including the Christian Council of Elders, biblical scholar, as well as religious leaders, academics, and NGOs from various countries globally. The conference is expected to be opened by the President of Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Moriah, Dr. Antonius Missa, M.Th.
Proof of Activity:
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