What are the differences between an ancient and modern approach to biblical interpretation? How might the exegetical approach of the early Christian theologians enrich the life of the church today? This is the focus of Concordia Seminary’s 32nd Annual Theological Symposium, “Search the Scriptures: Finding Christ and Ourselves in the History of Exegesis,” set for Sept. 20-21 on campus and also available virtually.

“The history of exegesis encourages both humility and confidence in students of the Bible. We are not the first to interpret the sacred Scriptures; several thousand years of faithful Christians reading and applying the Bible should give us pause before advancing our own interpretations,” said Dr. Erik Herrmann, professor of Historical Theology and dean of Theological Research and Publication. “But we also are confident that the same Scriptures that so shaped the faith and lives in the past will do the same for us today as we interpret the Scriptures afresh.”

Plenaries and sectionals will compare ancient and modern exegetical methods and approaches, grapple with the Bible’s meaning and relevance, and examine passages and interpretations to help participants develop a deeper love for the Scriptures while inspiring biblical preaching.

Plenaries will be presented by:

• Dr. David Maxwell, the Louis A. Fincke and Anna B. Shine Professor of Systematic Theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Mo.
• Dr. Paul Raabe, Professor in Biblical Studies at Grand Canyon University, Phoenix, Ariz., and Professor Emeritus at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Mo.; and Dr. Timothy Saleska, Professor of Exegetical Theology and Dean of Ministerial Formation at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Mo.
• Dr. Bruce Schuchard, Professor of Exegetical Theology and Chairman of the Department of Exegetical Theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Mo.; and Dr. Joel Elowsky, Professor of Historical Theology, Dean of Advanced Studies and Coordinator of International Seminary Exchange Programs at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Mo.
• Dr. Glenn Nielsen, Director of Placement, Director of Vicarage and Deaconess Internships, Director of Certification and Professor of Practical Theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Mo., and Dr. Erik Herrmann, Professor of Historical Theology, Dean of Theological Research and Publication, and Director of the Center for Reformation Research at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Mo.

Additional highlights include:

• Seventh Annual Dr. Jack Dean Kingsbury Lecture in New Testament Theology Tuesday, Sept. 20, presented by Dr. James W. Voelz, the Dr. Jack Dean Kingsbury Professor of New Testament Theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis.
• Golf outing sponsored by LCMS Foundation Monday, Sept. 19. Space is limited for this free event and registration is required.

Registration and event information:

Early registration is available for in-person ($140) and virtual ($100) attendance through July 17. After that date, the registration fee increases to $160 for in-person and $120 for virtual participants. Meals are included for in-person paid participants. Registration closes Aug. 31.

The symposium will feature a custom mobile app and pre-registration for individual sessions. For more information and updates, visit csl.edu/symposium or contact Continuing Education at 314-505-7286 or [email protected].

About Concordia Seminary

Concordia Seminary, St. Louis provides Gospel-centered graduate-level theological education for pastors, missionaries, deaconesses, scholars and other leaders in the name of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS). To learn more, visit csl.edu.