CREATIVE BIBLE STUDY

 

At our church we have had the privilege of participating in a three-week Bible study on the subject of “The Heart and Anger.” Dr. Jeff Newman has been the speaker. He serves with Baptist Mid-Missions as a sort of pastor to missionaries. The program he oversees is called Safe Haven for Missionary Soul Care.

            Safe Haven has been in place for several years now. It fills a void in Missions work which had become increasingly apparent. Jeff and his wife provide counseling and encouragement for those who are serving around the world. They also maintain a home in Illinois which offers short-term refuge for those arriving back in the states or leaving for their overseas assignments through Chicago.

            “The Heart and Anger: Beyond Anger Management to Heart Transformation,” is based mainly on a study from the epistle to the Ephesians. The epistle is compared to the short letter to the church in Ephesus found in Revelation 2:1-7. In that letter John encouraged the church to return to their first love by remembering, repenting, and doing the first works. Newman demonstrates how that admonition is fleshed out and expanded in Paul’s epistle to Ephesus.

            The practical application of heart transformation as a replacement for anger can be clearly seen as Paul discusses sanctification. The lessons would be valuable for any church, and I strongly recommend Dr. Newman and his presentation.