Each Wednesday evening from 6:15 - 7:15 PM  
Come and explore the foundational narratives and norms of our faith found in the Old Testament. In this “broad strokes” approach we trace themes that begin in the Old Testament, continue into the New Testament, and have ongoing value and relevance for the church today. You will be able to put the “big picture” of the Bible together when this class is done! As always, Tim will bring a contextual interest to his teaching, sharing images and insights from the historical and cultural world of the Bible. You can also expect a personal dimension to this class as we discuss the sometimes unexpected and often personal implications of scripture in our lives.

Here is what Marty has to say about Tim Laniak's teaching:

"Tim is a phenomenal teacher. He brings a depth of knowledge to his teachings that is inspiring for all. For example, after earning his Doctorate in Theology from Harvard, Tim wanted to understand the metaphor of the Great Shepherd, used often in Scripture to describe the character of leadership. So - Tim took his family and lived with the Bedouin tribes of the near east for more than a year to more fully grasp the point. The result of this, and his other experience is that his teaching is a joy. I encourage you to come find out for yourself. I'll see you in class!"

Dr. Tim Laniak is Associate Professor of Old Testament and Coordinator of the Urban Ministry Program at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in Charlotte, North Carolina. He received his bachelor’s degree from Wheaton College, his M.Div. from Gordon-Conwell Seminary, and his doctorate in Old Testament and Early Judaism from Harvard Divinity School. Dr. Laniak has published a book on social anthropology and the Bible (Shame and Honor in the Book of Esther, Scholars Press, 1997), a commentary on the book of Esther (by Hendrickson Publishers, 2003), biblical theological resources on leadership (through Gordon Conwell’s Center for the Development of Evangelical Leadership), and A Handbook for Hebrew Exegesis. His newest book, Shepherds After My Own Heart: Pastoral Traditions in the Bible (InterVarsity Press, 2006), is the result of a year’s research in the Middle East, including some fascinating experiences interviewing Bedouin shepherds. Dr. Laniak is a member of the Society of Biblical Literature, the Institute of Biblical Research, and the Biblical Archaeological Society.

After ordination in an independent evangelical church, Dr. Laniak and his wife Maureen began ministering cross-culturally, with short-term involvements together in over 15 countries. They spent five years co-directing an international community of students and scholars in Boston with residents from over 60 nationalities. They also served an elderly immigrant community there for five years. Having lived in Israel for two years, Dr. Laniak frequently speaks to groups about the historical and religious dynamics of the Middle East, and occasionally takes tours to the region.

Tim and his wife Maureen are actively involved in public education in Union County, North Carolina. They co-founded Life Long Learning, a non-profit company that offered non-traditional educational opportunities, and Union Academy, a charter school emphasizing character education and community service. They live with their 3 children in Weddington, North Carolina.