Reta Halteman Finger

Creating a Scene imaginatively draws readers into Chloe's house church, which has just received a letter from their church planter, the apostle Paul. Using group simulation, the book brings to life scholarly research on how the gospel penetrated the Roman Empire. As participants role-play early believers and debate with each other, they gain new insights and will never read 1 Corinthians the same way again. First-century Corinthians were just as human as church people today. They did not consider Paul's letters authoritative Scripture when he wrote them, so lively group discussion and debate are encouraged. This method of Bible study works for many levels, from youth groups to Sunday school classes, or in college and seminary courses. 260 Pages.

Placing the biblical book of Romans in its historical and cultural context, Reta Halteman Finger here creates a simulation of the Roman house churches that first heard Paul's Romans letter and its call for inclusion of both Jews and Gentiles in the people of God. Finger guides readers in small groups to re-create house churches as in first-century Rome. Through nine lessons from the Romans text, participants play various roles and converse, even debate, with other characters from different ethnic and religious backgrounds. This innovative approach makes Romans come alive in new, concrete ways and applies Romans theology to current issues that often still divide groups of Christians. "Roman House Churches for Today" includes aids and suggestions for simulation leaders, sample character sketches, and website links with resources for further, deeper study. Not only small groups but also individuals will profit from this unique Bible study.

This book rexamines the traditions of the Jerusalem church in which women were responsible for preparing and serving communal meals.