| LHM Christian Workshops Address Outreach Dilemma
Peoria, Ill., Jul. 18, 2003 — Six nationally recognized religious experts today addressed a continuing dilemma in the church – Christians openly sharing their faith. Speaking at the Lutheran Hour Ministries (LHM) 2003 Outreach Expo and Convention here, they discussed issues-based topics to packed houses in two afternoon sessions. Among their topics – Jews and Judaism within the biblical narrative, Christianity and its historical fact, practical evangelism techniques and managing conflict – the Christian way.
 "Since Jesus rejected Judaism in the New Testament, is He also rejecting the Old Testament?" asked Dr. R. Reed Lessing, assistant professor of exegetical theology at Concordia Seminary-St. Louis. "If so, then the first testament appears to be Jewish and of no insight, help or power to the Christian!" Lessing’s seminar, "Defining Judaism," clarified where Jews and Judaism fit within the biblical narrative.
Mental health educator Ruth N. Koch looked at managing conflict from a Christian perspective. "There’s nothing wrong with a good, clean fight," stated Koch. "Christians must learn to fight fair while respecting others as well as themselves." Her 25 tips on managing conflict 'the Christian way' included: 'Don't avoid confrontation,' 'Regard your opponent as a potential ally,' 'Learn to listen,' and 'Give your opponent a sporting chance.' Koch is the author of one of LHM's most effective booklet, tape and workshop series, "Now You're Talking," which is used extensively in the "Living for Tomorrow" congregational outreach program.
Other presenters at the LHM Christian outreach, training and empowerment workshops included historian and author Dr. Paul L. Maier, Wheat Ridge Ministries President Dr. Richard Bimler, the Rev. Art Simmons and Islamic scholar Dr. Roland E. Miller.
The LHM 2003 Outreach Expo and Convention continues through Sunday morning. Saturday highlights include the "Celebrate the Healthy Christian Family Conference" and "God’s Grace in Peoria – A Celebration Event!"
For more information, please contact:
Kathy Bernard
(800) 944-3450, ext. 4152 |
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