The faith formation theme for our 2026–2027 program year is “It is Written, but I (Jesus) Say…” Just read the Gospels and it will become clear that Jesus freely re-interpreted the Hebrew Bible, often making the ethical implications of the laws of Moses more demanding. When he taught, Jesus would acknowledge what Moses said and what had been written down in the Jewish scriptures, but then add more weight to them, as if to say, “I know what Moses said, but we can do better!” Which is one of the many reasons Jesus got into trouble with the Chief Priests and rabbis; they thought he disrespected Moses and the scriptures.
To explore what Jesus actually said, Jim Butler will begin the new program year with two presentations on what most scholars consider the core or essence of Jesus’ teachings and how they conflicted with the theology and ethical expectations of first century Judaism. Come and find out what Jesus expected from his first followers and from us! Faith Formation gatherings are held in Wright Chapel at 11:20 a.m. after the 10 a.m. Sunday worship service and coffee hour.