One would be hard-pressed to find a single development in the past 25 years that has had more impact on ecclesial outreach than the Bible seminar programs. Initiated in 1992 in the North Industry Ecclesia (now Paris Avenue) in Ohio, the seminars have largely changed the frame of reference for many ecclesias about outreach possibilities in their communities.
During the years after 1992, with no real organization or formal structure, the concept of Bible seminars swept rapidly across North America. Ecclesias who found public lectures poorly attended despite persistent and faithful efforts, were looking for ways to connect with the general public. For many of us, the reception by the public of the “Learn to Read the Bible Effectively” seminar was incredible. Some ecclesias reported more than one hundred registrations for a single seminar offering. Follow-on classes were provided and our community has been greatly blessed by numerous baptisms directly from this work.
Over time, the seminar has been adapted and new courses developed to meet the interest ofstudents. Many ecclesias have made the seminar an annual part of their preaching program, supplemented with a number of other important outreach activities. In a few cases, ecclesias have moved from the “special effort” concept to an ongoing, systematic process for teaching the Truth.
In the following two articles, you’ll read of two ecclesial stories. Doubtless, there are many other ecclesias that have equally exciting results to share. In both cases, you’ll read of how these ecclesias benefitted from the fruit of the seminars — to include new members and an exciting new focus on the First Principle Truths that we hold dear.
The Origin of the Organic World – Part One