Denver Seminary

ENGAGE 23 A Jewish scholar hoped to impress his teacher. "I have gone through the Talmud three times," he said. The teacher's response? "Good! But what I want to know is, how much of the Talmud has gone through you?" At Denver Seminary, our respect for Scripture exceeds scholarly study and eloquent preaching. We say to one another, "Scripture must also pass through me." The Scripture writer says, "The word of God is living and active (not just a mass of ancient, religious words) … Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates … [and] it judges (or exposes) the thoughts and attitudes of the heart" (Heb. 4:12). I often recall the comments of Denver Seminary professors from 50 years ago. In a New Testament class: "You must discipline yourself to ask every time you open the Scriptures, what does the Bible actually say? Until you are confident in your answer, you dare not approach the pulpit." In a church history lecture: "Never forget, some of your spiritual ancestors died as martyrs so you could have this gospel in its complete form. Remember their blood when you open this book." In a preaching seminar: "Your congregation expects you to bring them a word of hope, a word from God. They hunger to be guided through the Bible. Make sure you've chosen the right pathway." In theology: "Don't pick out convenient phrases or single verses that backstop your personal opinion. Rather, be sure that you understand the Scriptures in their entirety, the full content of God's gospel to the world, those truths that speak to all times and cultures." In other words, those teachers were saying, "Scripture must pass through each of us." Powerful challenges like those—once heard 50 years ago—are still heard in Denver Seminary's classrooms today. BENEDICTION Gordon MacDonald CHANCELLOR "If the Bible's origin is divine, then it demands preeminence in the lives of God's people—and ultimately of all people." Brad Strait, MDiv 1992 and current Doctor of Ministry student "Readers [of Scripture] must allow for a measure of literary artistry, theological emphasis, selectivity in detail, and freedom of wording, none of which contradicts the doctrine of inerrancy." Dr. Craig Blomberg "We choose to put our hope in what we believe is someone who is certain, someone whose life and story is true … and that someone is Jesus Christ." Laura Flanders "Matthew wanted to let his first readers know that even in the midst of mindless slaughter and death, God is in the process of providing salvation for those who believe … we can find comfort and rest in our loving God—who is always in control." Dr. Scott Wenig "Believers [in Colossae] were being taught by some to question whether belief in the gospel was really enough … Paul's message to the Colossians was simple … there is nothing lacking in Christ. He is sufficient for all—nothing else is needed." Dr. Mark Young WORD FOR WORD

• Cover