“The Bible, Church, and Same-Sex Relationships” is a class on one of the most important topics facing the church today. The course does far more than look at the handful of Scriptural passages on same-sex relations; it gets at the question of how we formulate ethics in the first place. Participants from a variety of theological viewpoints are welcome. The focus of the course is not debate, but rather serious inquiry and reflection together. This is a chance to ask the questions you’ve been wanting to explore.
Among other things we will cover:
- ancient Israelite and early Christian views on sex.
- biblical passages on same-sex relations in light of reception history.
- causes of same-sex attraction.
- biblical and contemporary understandings of marriage.
- ancient and current Christian perspectives on the meaning of sex difference.
- methods of biblical interpretation, particularly for formulating ethics.
- how to construct a framework for Christian ethics
Instructor: Karen R. Keen, Th.M. Karen is a biblical scholar, author, and spiritual director. She frequently teaches and writes on the subject of sexuality. Karen is author of Scripture, Ethics, and the Possibility of Same-Sex Relationships
Comments from former participants:
“Karen is a gifted teacher and Bible scholar. I would highly recommend this course to anyone who wishes to deepen their understanding of the Bible and sexuality.” – Rev. Dr. Michael Norrie, chaplain
“Karen’s facilitation skills created a brave and compassionate learning environment that invited honest questioning and conversation. At a time when people can feel overwhelmed, intimidated, and alienated by conversations regarding Scripture, ethics, and sexuality, Karen’s course offers a refreshing and stretching environment to explore one’s beliefs in the context of a charitable learning community.” – Lee Kosa, lead pastor at Cedar Park Church
“Iron can’t sharpen iron in isolation and Karen creates safe and knowledgeable space for such a dialogue. I would highly recommend this class.” – Gil Vollmering, Jr., church elder and parent of a gay son.
Class Schedule and Details
Location: Online via Zoom
Days: Tuesdays, September 5th – November 14th, 2023 (10 LIVE lecture sessions; the lecture portion will also be recorded and available during the 10 weeks).
Time: 7:00pm -8:15pm Eastern Standard Time (5:00pm Pacific / 6:00pm Central)
Cost: $125 for individual registration ($90 per person for groups of five or married couples). Registration is a one-time fee and non-refundable.
Required text: Scripture, Ethics, and the Possibility of Same-Sex Relationships
Registration
Pre-registration is required. Register by Friday, September 1, 2023 by completing registration below. For late registration inquiries or difficulty registering, contact Karen via e-mail or 469.708.8211
Registration Payment
Registration is $125 ($90 per person for groups of five or married couples). The fee is non-refundable, but you may transfer registration to someone else prior to the start date (except those registering under couples rate). It is the registrant’s responsibility to make those transfer arrangements, including any payback from the transferee). E-mail Karen with the transferee’s name and e-mail address. Do not let finances be an obstacle. If you need a partial scholarship to be able to participate, contact Karen.
Payment can be made with credit card OR PayPal by clicking the Add to Cart button below (it does not require a PayPal account). Be sure to select the correct quantity (for either 1 or more registrants).
1. INDIVIDUAL REGISTRATION
2. GROUP REGISTRATION
Click here for group registration
3. MARRIED COUPLE REGISTRATION